Athens Budget Hotels

Plaka. Plaka is the oldest area in Athens. You will find it between the Acropolis and the Temple of Zeus. Its short and cozy streets are the location of numerous souvenir shops and restaurants that traditionally attract a great number of tourists. Plaka is the most picturesque area of Athens. In this part of the city it is almost impossible to believe that you are currently in the city with the population of approximately 4 million of people. Anafiotika, which is famous for its snow-white houses, is a special place that is recommended to visit. The legend says that the Delphian oracle forbad building houses there, but once two homeless builders, who were looking for a shelter in Plaka, managed to build a small house during just one night thanks to their mastery. When guardsmen came in the morning, they felt sorry for the builders and decided not to punish them. Since then a new rule has been created - if you manage to build a shelter during one night, you may stay there.

Monastiraki. Monastiraki area is located to the north of Plaka. It has a lot in common with a bazaar (especially on Sundays), when hundreds of tradesmen bring their goods for sale. The market itself is situated on Abyssinia Square and in the street nearby (west from Monastiraki Square). After making a walk across Plaka and Monastiraki in the daytime, it would definitely be a good idea to spend an evening in Psyrri or Gazi areas, which are located nearby. These areas are rich in various restaurants, bars and clubs, in which the Greek spend almost all their free time. Don’t forget to be careful if you come to Plaka during the time of a carnival time – there’s a risk to be sprinkled with confetti!
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