The Plaka - The Heart of Athens - Athens - Things To Do Reviews

The Plaka was great...shopping, cafes, bars...you name it! Some of the friendliest merchants around, they have everything from art to clothing to shoes. You may need to shield the kids' eyes in some of the shops, as there are plenty of art objects containing sexual nature.
Every restaurant owner wants to feed you, so you'll never go hungry! The people take pride in their cafes. Even if you are full, they will still invite you in for a drink. I have noticed the Greek folk are some of the most friendly people I've ever met.

THE PLAKA

The Plaka is the oldest and most picturesque section of Athens. It’s the neighborhood immediately northeast of and at the foot of the Acropolis. Most of its stone-paved, narrow streets are closed to automobile traffic, though you still need to keep an eye out for a speeding motorcycle or delivery truck.

At one time, the Plaka was the nightclub district, but most of the clubs relocated or closed when the government outlawed amplified music in the area in the 1970s in an effort to get rid of undesirables. The strategy seems to have worked; it’s now a fun, exciting and entertaining place dominated by restaurants, cafés, hotels, churches and tourist shops amidst colorful, modest homes with attractive tiled roofs. The area also offers breathtaking views of the Acropolis.

Some complain the district is not what it used to be. You can say the same thing about any beautiful, popular place: Mykonos' south beaches, Venice's Piazza San Marco, San Francisco’s Fisherman’s Wharf, etc. In this Yank's opinion, the Plaka is still the nicest neighborhood in central Athens and the heart of the city.