Areopagus

The basics

There’s no charge to visit the Areopagus, which is sometimes translated as “Mars Hill”. You won’t find any ruins here, but some Christians will be moved to see St. Paul’s sermon engraved (in Greek) on a plaque. The Areopagus can get very busy around sunset, particularly during the summer months, so it’s worth arriving early to ensure a spot. Some Athens walking tours stop here, while you can also visit on a Segway tour, cycle tour, or e-bike tour, although you’ll need to park your wheels at the base of the steps.

Things to know before you go

• The Areopagus is a great choice for photographers, social media mavens, sunset fans, and observant Christians.
• The rock has been worn smooth in many places over the millennia, so wear appropriate shoes.
• The Areopagus is not suitable for travelers with mobility challenges.

How to get there

There are a number of routes to the top of the Areopagus, but the simplest way is to climb the stairs that lead up from Theorias, which is a stone’s throw from the side entrance to the Acropolis. Monastiraki (Lines 1 and 3), the closest metro station, is about a 10-minute walk.

When to get there

If you’re not constrained by school vacations, it’s best to visit Athens during shoulder seasons—May and September—when the weather is warm and the crowds are smaller. Many opt to arrive at the Areopagus for sunset; watching the illuminations appear as darkness falls is spectacular. However, sunrise is an even better bet as there are fewer crowds and the Acropolis is on the sunrise side, not the sunset side.

Where to get the best views of the Acropolis

Particularly during the busy summer season, you might want to consider three of the city’s other seven hills for Acropolis viewing: Mt. Lycabettus, Philopappos Hill (Filopappou), or the Pnyx. Mt. Lycabettus is on the sunset side, but is the furthest of the hills. You can also admire this ancient citadel from rooftops in the city: A for Athens is a popular choice, although you’ll need to book ahead for sunset.