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The Most Romantic Spots to Propose in Athens, Greece

The Nation Garden in Athens is one of the most romantic spots in the capital
The Nation Garden in Athens is one of the most romantic spots in the capital | © Daniel Cortes / Flickr

Are you planning to propose but don’t know where? To make this significant moment go smoothly, we’ve compiled a series of romantic spots that should make this unique moment a lasting memory. Here are the top spots to propose in the Greek capital.

Under a pavilion at the National Garden

Botanical Garden, Park

National Garden, Athens
© Georgios Liakopoulos / Flickr
In the heart of Athens, in Syntagma Square and just next to the Greek Parliament, you will find this unexpectedly magnificent public park. Formerly known as the “Royal Garden” as it was commissioned by Queen Amalia, it is open all day long with many romantic spots throughout. We are particularly fond of the many pavilions, but there is also a pretty wooden bridge over the duck pond, or a flower-covered archway.

On a cruise in the Saronic Gulf

For the ultimate romantic gesture, propose on your way back from a cruise in the Saronic Gulf. There are many cruise options, from a private one-day cruise with stops on the neighboring islands to a sunset cruise along the coast. Whatever you choose, the backdrop to your proposal will be memorable.

Agios Georgios Church

Church

Agios Georgios church in Lycabettus Hill
© Aleksandr Zykov / Flickr

Perched on top of the Lycabettus Hill, the whitewashed chapel of Agios Georgios stands stall. Offering some of the best views over the city and the sea, it is thought that the church was built on the site of the ancient temple of Akreos Zeus. The church itself is a relatively recent construction, dating from the 18th century. An ideal spot from which to watch the sunset, the church can be reached by funicular or on foot, after climbing the hill.

In a back alley in Plaka

Plaka is one of the most scenic districts of Athens. This historic neighborhood, with its traditional houses covered with vivid bougainvillea and narrow alleys, is just perfect for a romantic stroll (leading to a marriage proposal). We highly recommend you find a little corner in the stunning Anafiotika, or by a colorful house.

By the Temple of Poseidon, Cape Sounio

Archaeological site

Sounion, Greece. The Temple of Poseidon, an Ancient Greek temple and one of the major monuments of the Golden Age of Athens built at Cape Sounion
© Joaquin Ossorio-Castillo / Alamy Stock Photo
Undeniably one of the top excursions you can make from Athens is to the Temple of Poseidon at Cape Sounio. The Doric-style temple was constructed around 440 BCE, and is dedicated to the god of the sea, Poseidon. For those passionate about history or who simply love a unique background, this is it.

Over a candle-lit dinner in a Michelin-starred restaurant

For a view of the sunset and the sea, opt for Matsuhisa Athens on the riviera, where you and your S.O. can indulge in delicious Japanese food. For a more low-key spot, Yiasemi, in Plaka, offers a good atmosphere and a welcoming spot. For a gourmet experience, Spondi will meet your expectations. For fine dining with a view, Hytra is your best bet. If you prefer a relaxed outdoor setting, Simul’s courtyard is what you’re after. Seriously, the options are endless.

On the rooftop garden at the Grande Bretagne Hotel

Luxury, Chain Hotel

Opposite Syntagma Square, the Grande Bretagne Hotel has 320 rooms and an amazing view of the city. Wow your significant other with cocktails at the hotel rooftop garden restaurant. The view, which includes Syntagma Square and the Acropolis, is breathtaking, and will definitely set the mood for a romantic evening. Pop the question over a flute of champagne and order dinner on-site.

In a Gold Class lounge at the cinema

Gold Class lounges are the place to treat your cinephile lover to a unique movie experience (available at The Mall Village Cinema and Palaio Faliro Village Cinema). Order a drink or snacks from the gourmet menu and have your waiter bring them to the private screening space, with luxurious reclining seats. Linger in the lounger after the movie to ask that important question.

Gold Class Lounge at Village Cinema

During an evening stroll around the Acropolis

The pedestrian street surrounding the Acropolis allows for a great stroll around the Sacred Rock, and with street performers, it can provide the ideal spot for a colorful proposal. As the sun sets over the city, lights illuminate the Acropolis, giving the ancient ruins an elegant aura. Walk hand-in-hand and find a quiet spot where you can ask your significant other to make you the happiest person in the world. Or, find a street performer to serenade your love.

Under the stars

Visit the Eugenides Foundation Planetarium, one of the largest structures in the world, to pop the question while exploring the galaxy. Should you prefer a more relaxed setting, head to the Hill of the Muses, next to the Filopappou, where the National Observatory of Athens stands tall. While the observatory is not usually open in the evening, request a VIP evening visit by calling in advance. You will get a tour of the interior and observe the stars through the Doridis telescope. Now, that’s definitely a night to remember.

The fascinating planetarium of the Eugenides Foundation, in Athens

About the author

Polyglot (with a Master Degree in Translation), adventure seeker, professional shower singer and food enthusiast, Ethel enjoys spending quality time with friends and family, usually with a certain amount of eating and drinking involved. Brussels-bred and Athens-bound, she loves traveling around the world, uploading photos on her Instagram feed and daydreaming with a good book in her hands. Want to see the world through her eyes? Find her on Instagram at @heyitsetelle

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