Athens

Old Royal Palace, Athens, Athens

About Old Royal Palace, Athens

The palace construction began in 1836 and ended in 1843, making it the residence of Greece’s royal family. If you visit this place on a Sunday as part of your Greece packages, you will get to see the guard’s ceremony, which takes place at 11 a.m. sharp. This event holds immense importance for the military tradition of Greece and forms a unique scene to admire.

Right next to the palace, you can see National Gardens, a place to stroll and soak in nature at its best. There are several plants, shaded paths, and ancient ruins to explore. You can also walk in the botanical garden, alongside ponds, and visit the small zoo. This is the perfect spot to take your family for a fun day.

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Old Royal Palace, Athens Highlights

• Walk through the neoclassical boxed streets of Old Royal Palace and observe the admirable architecture designed by Friedrich von Gärtner in 1843.
• Observe the impressive Changing of the Guard march performed daily at 11 a.m. in front of the Palace where soldiers practise and delight the visitors.
• Learn about the parliament structure of the city at the Old Royal Palace which now acts as the main centre of the Hellenic Parliament.
• Stroll through the adjacent National Gardens designed on Queen Amalia's instructions and discover the beautifully shaded paths, ancient ruins, and ponds.
• Visit the souvenir shops and cute cafes at Syntagma Square which is right in front of the Old Royal Palace and talk about life, love, and more.

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Point of Interest for Old Royal Palace, Athens

Admire the architecture of Greek Parliament

The parliament was constructed as the main palace for King Otto in the 1840s. Today, it serves as the house of Greece and as the seat of the Hellenic Parliament. This palace depicts neoclassical architecture with grand and breathtaking columns. You will also see elaborate façade everywhere. If you visit the parliament building on a Sunday in the morning, you can witness the Changing of the Guard ceremony. Soldiers are lined up in front in their traditional attire.

Explore the National Gardens

You will view the National Gardens right next to the Old Royal Palace. This place promises the right mix of peace and happiness. It was designed in the 19th century under the command of Queen Amalia. There are shaded paths, beautiful plants, and ancient ruins everywhere. You can explore a small zoo, a botanical garden, and various ponds everywhere. This is the right spot for a casual walk or if you want to catch a break with your partner.

Stroll through the Zappeion Hall

As you stroll in the National Gardens, you will come across the Zappeion Hall. It is a relevant neoclassical building used for exhibitions and conferences. The hall was constructed in the late 19th century. This was an effort by Greece to modernise the space. The impressive architecture and beautiful interiors of the hall make it a must-visit for everyone. Confirm if any event is scheduled around your trip and make your plan accordingly. The exhibitions are not to be missed!

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