Lycabettus Hill is the highest peak in Athens where you would get a bird’s eye view of the city of Athens. Grab the opportunity while in Athens to take a walk or hike if you don’t wish to use the funicular, to get some fresh air and catch some nice shots.
With a 360-degree vista towering over the city, Lycabettus hill stands at 277 meters above sea level and is visible from all over the city. The walk via its circular path is pleasant in spring and autumn, but in summer it can be a test of endurance and a challenge if you attempt to go on foot the wrong timing. You will be amazed by the city landscape. The view from the highest point of Lycabettus Hill is uninterrupted and spectacular!
The Legend
The word Lycabettus means ‘hill of wolves’ and the legend says that wolves roamed the slopes which were under the protection of goddess Athena. She was supposed to be carrying a massive rock to the Acropolis intending of building herself a temple that would reach up to the sky. On the way, two ravens caused her to drop the rock, so creating Mount Lycabettus
Sunset from Lycabettus Hill
You won’t capture the sunset from the streets as beautifully as you will do it from the top of Lycabettus hill. As the sun lowers itself, the sky features traces of yellow, orange and blue or bold eye-catching colours of real hot pink. Stay a bit longer. It could be the best part! With the setting of the sun, the lights on the Acropolis hill and the rest of the ancient sights start to light up little by little until the entire monuments are lit up. From the open-air amphitheatre, you will see the stunningly beautiful Acropolis hill, and other outstanding structures. The view extends, however, extends as far as the coast where you can spot the bay of Faliron and Piraeus.
The Chapel of St George
The white-washed chapel of St George is visible from afar and stands on the open-air amphitheatre on top of the Lycabettus hill. When here, step in, light a candle, pray and make a wish.
Lycabettus Hill
Orizontes Lycabettus Restaurant
Besides the chapel, there is a café that serves breakfast and lunch, but also a world-class restaurant that you cannot easily overlook it. With a bird’s-eye view over the dazzling city of Athens spreading below, a visit and meal at the Orizontes is a fabulous idea.
Inspired mainly by seafood, the gourmet cuisine offers Mediterranean dishes with a twist.
Recently when we were here at the Orizontes Lycabettus Restaurant, the stunning Acropolis hill glittered below, and beyond, and the City of Athens unfolded like a map out to the Saronic Gulf and Piraeus in the distance.
Orizontes Lycabettus offers reasonably priced set menus for two. You will never have enough of it, no matter how many times you return.
Lycabettus Hill
Getting There
By Cable Car
The ride by the cable car is a fun and fast way to get to the top. If you have kids along, this is the way to get to the top of Lycabettus hill. The funicular leaves from Ploutarchou and Aristippou Street. A one-way ticket costs €7.00.
Climbing the Lycabettus Hill on Foot
Get ready for a long climb. The first part among shrub and small trees is relatively easy. The toughest part is by the zigzagging stairs where the feet begin to hurt however on hot days avoid the steep walk. Also, avoid using the path if returning late at night.
By Car: Following the Lycabettus ring road, you will reach the end of the street where you will find a large parking lot, on the side of which, there is the open theatre of Lycabettus that hosts musical concerts and theatrical performances in summer. The way up from here is not more than 10 minutes unless you stop on the way to admire the breathtaking view and take photos!
By Taxi: A taxi can only take you so far up the hill. You will need to walk up a significant amount of stairs for the remainder of the way.
