Tucked away beneath the towering Acropolis, Anafiotika is one of Athens’ most charming and unexpected neighborhoods. With its whitewashed walls, narrow alleyways, and flowering courtyards, this tiny district feels like it was plucked from a Cycladic island and quietly placed in the middle of the capital.
Island Roots in the City
Anafiotika was built in the mid-19th century by craftsmen from the island of Anafi, who came to Athens to work on King Otto’s palace and other major construction projects. Homesick and longing for the familiar, they recreated the architecture of their island — low, white houses with flat roofs, bright doors, and winding footpaths — right at the foot of the Acropolis.
The result is a neighborhood that feels worlds away from the city’s noise and modernity. Despite being just steps from the bustling Plaka district and major archaeological sites, Anafiotika offers a serene, almost timeless escape.
A Place of Peace and Discovery
Strolling through Anafiotika is more about feeling than seeing. There are no museums or souvenir shops, and cars can’t pass through the tight lanes. Instead, visitors are rewarded with quiet corners, bursts of bougainvillea, and glimpses of daily life — laundry fluttering in the breeze, a cat lounging on a sun-drenched step, or a local tending to potted herbs.
Because of its location and fragile structure, much of the neighborhood is protected, and some homes are still occupied by descendants of the original Anafi builders. It remains one of the few places in Athens where traditional island life has been preserved inside the capital.
How to Visit
Anafiotika is best explored on foot. From Plaka, follow the signs toward the Acropolis, and you’ll soon find the winding steps that lead into this hidden quarter. There are no maps inside Anafiotika — part of the experience is getting gently lost among its passages. Come early in the morning or late in the afternoon for the softest light and fewest crowds.
While Anafiotika is small and can be explored in 20–30 minutes, it leaves a lasting impression. Whether you're looking for unique photos, a peaceful detour, or simply a taste of Greek island life without leaving Athens, Anafiotika is a quiet treasure waiting to be discovered.
