Springtime is when Attica shows its most beautiful and colourful face. The temperature is ideal for walks and strolls along the paved streets and the numerous sights that are scattered all over Attica, balconies are filled with blooming flowers, the bitter orange trees smell like heaven in the neighbourhoods, chairs and tables take their place outside the cafes and tavernas, parks are flooded with the voices of children who enjoy their play, and people swarm into the countryside for picnics, hiking and extraordinary experiences with the whole family.
Ideas for memorable moments in Attica in spring are countless and satisfy all preferences. So get ready for unique experiences in a place that has it all!
1. Walk around Athens, amidst the aroma of blossoming bitter orange trees
The sweet weather of spring makes the strolls in Athens even more magical. The aromas and colours create a kaleidoscopic scenery that enchants and invites residents and visitors of Athens to enjoy the city at its best! Neighbourhoods, picturesque narrow streets, city squares and paved roads in the historical centre are flooded with people, the blossoming bitter orange trees emitting their intoxicating scent and bougainvilleas giving away their abundant beauty.
2. Experience the unique traditions of Easter in Attica
Springtime is associated with Easter and age-old traditions that are still practiced today everywhere in Attica. Good Friday with the Epitaph procession, the evening of Holy Saturday and the Resurrection with the fireworks and the burning of Judas. In Spetses young people burn a boat at the church courtyard, while in “Agios Ioannis” in Hydra the “sea Epitaph” is immersed in the port waters to sanctify them. Don’t miss the “Easter Dance” in Palaeochora in Aegina, or the traditions of “Roussalia” and the “Trawl Dance” in Megara.
3. Savour the delicious flavours of Lent and Easter in Attica
Culinary traditions and symbolisms related to faith and the rebirth of nature. Lent and Holy Week fasting is the period of preparation for the Crucifixion and Resurrection of Christ, during which vegetable, legume and seafood dominate the family table. Then comes Holy Saturday, starring the red eggs, the tsoureki (Easter bread) and the traditional mageiritsa, before the advent of Easter Sunday, with the lamb on the spit, the kokoretsi, the kontosouvli and all the goods of Attica’s land offering unforgettable culinary experiences!
4. Immerse yourselves into the stunning landscape and healing properties of Vouliagmeni Lake
In the heart of Attica Riviera, a hidden treasure of Attica’s nature awaits you: Vouliagmeni Lake is a rare geological phenomenon of international magnitude, with brackish waters that are continuously replenished both by the sea and the underground thermal springs. Enjoy a natural and unique thermal spa experience, in an idyllic landscape that is dominated by an imposing rock and lush vegetation. Spend a memorable day in Vouliagmeni Lake, pampered with top restaurant, exercise and recreation services for all ages!
5. Marvel at the feast of colours and scents of the Kifissia Flower Show
In spring nature celebrates and there is no better place to join the celebration than the Flower Show in Kifissia! Every year in April, the enchanting suburb of Attica hosts the greatest flower show in Greece. “Dimitris Zomopoulos” Park in Kifissia, a stunning lush open space with tall trees and scenic design, is filled with people who combine their walk with purchases of flowers, plants and gardening products, enjoying at the same time the events and happenings for children and grown-ups that take place alongside the show.
6. Attica’s wineries welcome you with… open doors!
Every year, Attica’s wineries that are members of the Attica Vineyards Winemakers Association (ENOAA) organise the “Open Doors” events, inviting everyone to participate in wine tastings, tours around the wineries’ facilities and special happenings. Immerse yourselves into the magical world of Attica’s wine and the age-old Attica’s vineyard, guided by the winemakers themselves, and purchase awarded wine labels based on Savatiano, the variety that “bears the aroma” of Attica!
7. Marvel at Attica… from above!
When hiking in nature takes you to places with panoramic views of the whole Attica Basin, when your lunch, drink or coffee are accompanied by breathtaking images of world-famous monuments and urban beauty, then moments become invaluable. Marvel at Attica from above on the hills around Athens, at Parnitha’s refuges, at the rooftop restaurants of museums and hotels, at the Stavros Niarchos Foundation Cultural Centre (SNFCC) and in many more places that are scattered everywhere in Attica.
8. Spring day-trip to Lavrio
There are many reasons to go to Lavrio, including its extraordinary atmosphere, its rich history and the unique culinary experiences it offers. Here you will feel you are in an island, although you are just a few kilometres away from the centre of Athens. You will marvel at the traces of its mining history, the architectural masterpieces, the vast squares, parks and many open spaces. Maintaining its identity unspoiled, Lavrio welcomes travellers who seek authenticity and enchants them with its beauty!
9. Hiking routes in the pristine natural environment of Methana
Volcanic craters, archaeological sites, traditional villages, verdant landscapes with rich vegetation and paths of extraordinary beauty. The peninsula of Methana is ideal destination for hiking and trekking excursions, which thrill alternative travellers. In spring look out for the rare orchids that grow wild in the area and marvel at this unique natural scenery!
10. Family excursion to Diomedous Botanical Gardens
Diomedous Botanical Gardens in Chaidari, in the west suburbs of Athens, is a majestic world that unfolds before you, occupying a lush green area of 460 acres, filled with 2,500 plant species from all over the world. Magnificent tall trees, colourful flowers, medicinal plants and water-lily-covered ponds compose an enchanting scenery for those who love nature and relaxed walks, and wish to learn more about the tree and plant species that grow in the world. Children will enjoy a true “heaven” and have a great time running free in nature!
