Forget the traffic and long walking tours. Cycling is one of the most immersive and rewarding ways to explore Athens. Craving coastal serenity, mountain challenges, artistic neighborhoods or moonlit monuments? The city offers a variety of routes, each with its own unique rhythm, its own perspective and a deeper connection to this endlessly fascinating place.
The Mountain Route
For those seeking a more demanding ride, Athens offers no shortage of mountain trails with stunning scenery and varied terrain. Ambitious cyclists won’t have to venture far to find routes that challenge both body and spirit. Mount Parnitha is perhaps the most formidable of them all, but those who conquer its slopes are rewarded with an otherworldly, almost lunar landscape near the summit, including views of the nearby casino and the eerie, long-abandoned sanatorium. Mount Ymittos is a favorite among seasoned riders, offering rugged terrain and a grueling hour-long ascent. What pays off is a peaceful escape into nature, panoramic views and a true sense of accomplishment.
For a more thrilling descent, head to Mount Penteli, where the ride down toward the coastal beaches of Schinias is as exhilarating as it is scenic. If you're intrigued by mountain cycling but not quite ready for the extremes of Parnitha or Ymittos, consider the gentler trails around the former royal estate of Tatoi. Winding through groves of cypress, olive and citrus trees, these routes offer a beautiful and more accessible introduction to the Athenian countryside.
The City Route
This route loops around the Acropolis along the wide, tree-lined Dionysiou Areopagitou promenade. It is a pedestrian-friendly path ideal for cyclists seeking a relaxed, scenic ride and one of the more accessible cycling experiences in Athens. As you pedal through Plaka, Monastiraki, Thissio and Koukaki, with a short detour around the National Garden, you'll find yourself immersed in a captivating urban tapestry. Here, ancient Greek and Roman ruins stand alongside lively modern streets, creating a surreal blend of old and new. This experience is part of the “Megalos Peripatos” (Grand Stroll), a 6.8-kilometer pedestrian and cycling route that connects many of the city’s major archaeological and historical sites.
The Coastal Route
The 52-kilometer ride to the Temple of Poseidon at the southern tip of Cape Sounion is a challenging yet incredibly rewarding cycling route, ideal for experienced riders looking for an adventure. This coastal road, paved with high-quality asphalt, offers spectacular views of the deep-blue Saronic Gulf as you head toward the imposing ruins of the ancient temple. While the route is mostly flat with a few gentle hills, it’s still a long ride. If 50 kilometers each way feels too ambitious, you can always shorten your trip by turning around at one of the scenic seaside towns or beaches along the route, such as Vouliagmeni, Lagonissi or Anavyssos. Either way, you’ll enjoy a stunning mix of natural beauty and ancient history with every turn of the pedal.
The Aesthetic Route
Beginning at the Thissio Metro station, this route follows Athens’ longest dedicated bike lane –stretching 7 km– along Ermou Street and through the neighborhoods of Petralona, Kallithea, Tavros and Moschato. It ends in spectacular fashion with a dramatic coastal reveal at the Stavros Niarchos Foundation Cultural Centre, where groves of olive trees and lavender gardens make for a refreshing, fragrant ride, often accompanied by a welcome sea breeze. Along the way, you’ll cross over the hidden Illisos River, a reminder of Athens’ layered past. From the cultural center, you can either wrap up your ride or continue along the Athens Riviera’s waterfront promenade, passing through Palaio Faliro and Alimos and eventually reaching the vibrant coastal suburb of Glyfada. Wherever you decide to pause or press on, the blend of urban charm, natural beauty and cultural landmarks along this route offers a cycling experience unlike any other.
The Street Art Route
This route may be less conventional than the others, but the sights are just as striking – though in a very different way. Several cycling tours in Athens offer guided rides through the city’s hidden corners and backstreets, where walls are splashed with graffiti, alleyways brim with street art and cafés and indie shops buzz with the city’s modern alternative scene. Neighborhoods like Psyrri and Metaxourgeio are the heart of this creative energy, showcasing a raw, expressive side of Athens far from the polished tourist paths. Going with a local guide who can share the stories behind the art and safely navigate the more chaotic traffic zones, is highly recommended. That said, because this route winds through some of the city’s busier streets, it is best suited for more experienced cyclists comfortable with urban riding.
