Lycabettus Hill in Athens: Your Complete Guide to an Iconic Peak

Lycabettus Hill, also known as Mount Lycabettus, is a majestic limestone hill towering 277 metres above the Greek capital. The rugged peak can be seen from most areas of Athens and is calling out to be explored. Make your way up by road, on foot or by cable car to discover the peak's many delights. Religious landmarks, local flora and fauna, and some of the best views in Athens await at the top. Here's your complete guide to Lycabettus Hill.

In the captivating story of Ancient Greece, mythology is as important as history. Lycabettus Hill is said to have been created when the goddess Athena was carrying a large rock to place on top of the Acropolis, trying to fulfil her dream of bringing the revered citadel closer to the sky. Upon receiving shocking news delivered by a raven, she dropped the rock, which became Lycabettus Hill.

Although Athena failed in that particular quest to help with the construction of the Acropolis, her supposed creation of Lycabettus Hill in Athens did aid in the construction of other beloved Athenian monuments: quarries used on the mountain during various centuries provided limestone that built Athens. During the late 19th century, nature began to return to the peak when it was reforested.

For as long as Athens has existed as a city, the hill could be seen from most areas of the metropolis. It became a symbol of the city and a place to feel closer to mythology. The Greek tradition of gathering socially in picturesque open spaces, surrounded by greenery, continues today. Athenians are drawn, as you may be, to the peak's natural beauty and historical landmarks.

Communal gatherings also take place when concerts are held in summer. Some people even view Lycabettus Hill in Athens as a symbol of resilience, standing tall and strong throughout the turmoil of the centuries. The combination of heritage, nature and views of ancient architecture may draw comparisons with Janiculum Hill in Rome.

The highest point in Athens may also be the high point of your trip. The panoramic views from the top are some of the best in the capital. The packed cityscape of one of the world's most dynamic capitals is framed by the sea and mountains in the distance, and with views stretching to the horizon, the sheer size of the city and its suburbs becomes apparent. Elevated landmarks like the Acropolis and Mount Parnitha are easy to spot. If you bring a map of Athens, you might be able to pick out other famous sights, like the Panathenaic Stadium – the ancient Olympic stadium made entirely of marble. The island of Aegina is visible in good weather.

Sunsets are magical from the top of the peak, bathing the city in a warm glow. The experience is understandably popular, so you're unlikely to have the view to yourself. Visit early in the day to enjoy more tranquility and some cool morning freshness. Of course, Lycabettus Hill provides photo opportunities beyond the cityscape. Capture close-up images of wildflowers or the crisp white of St. George Church against the blue sky.

For more private views of Athens at sunset, why not stay at a hotel offering an Athens rooftop bar or rooms with balconies? Mappemonde Restaurant Bar-Lounge inside Athens Capital Hotel - MGallery Collection offers unforgettable city and Acropolis views from tables beside the rooftop pool.

Right at the top of the mountain, St. George Church is a small, quaint, and pure-white treasure waiting to greet you after you reach the summit. The church dates from 1870 and stands on the spot where the Temple of Zeus Extreme could be found centuries ago. Inside, explore the compact interior that features colourful frescoes and other religious art, including metalwork depicting St. George on horseback.

When you visit Lycabettus Hill, don't miss the rock-cut Church of Saint Isidore. This hidden gem in Athens is much more obscure than the Chapel of St. George and is tucked away among the natural terrain. Although the church is not generally open other than for special services, it's worth glimpsing if you're passing by.

Experience cultural events in summer at the open-air Lycabettus Theatre, built during the 1960s at the site of a former quarry. Greek artists and international musicians perform concerts at the semi-circular amphitheatre, and past performers include legends like Bob Dylan, Joan Baez and Leonard Cohen. Pieces played by accomplished musicians, their notes drifting across the warm breeze, are magical among the fragrant trees on a summer's evening.

Surround yourself with native plants and pine trees as you explore scenic walking paths and cafés. Trees also offer shade at the top, and there will be a breeze to cool you down a little (though an ice cream from the café usually works better). Lycabettus roughly translates to “Mountain of Wolves” in English, and wolves are said to have once roamed the peak. Today, the wildlife is not so large, and a wild tortoise may cross your path as it plods between cacti.

Climbing all the way to the summit via winding pathways is a rewarding way to encounter Mediterranean flowers and brightly coloured birds, like the European greenfinch. While many smaller birds will be seen and heard as they flit among the trees, kestrels will likely be spotted hovering in the air. These birds of prey scan the ground while hovering in one position.

Order some well-earned refreshments during your hike with a stop at Prasini Tenta. This café, at roughly the halfway point of the ascent, offers snacks and light bites along with drinks. Once you get to the top, either by cable car or on foot, an upscale restaurant with an irresistible terrace awaits. Make a reservation at Orizontes to enjoy white-tablecloth dining and a fusion of Greek and Mediterranean cuisine. Views of the Acropolis, with Athens spread out like an urban ocean around it, provide the backdrop. The same stunning vistas are on display at the more informal Cafe Lycabettus next to the restaurant.

Head to the suburb of Kolonaki in central Athens to begin your excursion up Lycabettus Hill. The leafy district is known for cafe culture, high-end boutiques and al fresco dining, so there's plenty to look forward to once you get back down from your trek. Climbing the hill all the way up should take roughly 45 minutes. It's also possible to drive or take a taxi up (be sure to ask the driver to turn the meter on at the start of your journey). The parking area is next to the Lycabettus Theatre very close to the pinnacle. You'll need to climb a few stairs to get to the very top.

Alternatively, take the Lycabettus Cable Car, which starts at the end of Ploutarchou Street where it meets Aristippou Street. Bear in mind that even if you choose to take the funicular, the route will still involve some steps, but you'll cover most of the climb in just three minutes inside the cable car. The funicular runs inside the mountain with no views, so the rewarding views only come once you reach the top.

Lycabettus Cable Car

• Address: Aristippou 1, Athina 106 76
• Operates every day from 9am to 1:30am (service may end earlier in winter)
• Runs every 30 minutes - or more frequently at peak times

Ready to begin your Athenian adventure? Start planning your visit to the city's top attractions, including the Acropolis. You're almost there!