As the sun dips behind the Acropolis and a warm breeze sweeps through the narrow streets of Athens, the city comes alive with one of its most beloved traditions: open-air cinema. From late spring to early autumn, Athenians and visitors alike gather under the stars to enjoy films in enchanting outdoor settings. The experience is elevated by the open sky, the rustling of leaves and the hum of Athenian life.
Open-air cinemas are more than just places to watch a movie; they are cultural landmarks that blend history, atmosphere and entertainment.
Park Your Cinema at the SNFCC Park
This summer, the Stavros Niarchos Foundation Cultural Center (SNFCC) brings back its popular open-air movie nights – Park Your Cinema and Park Your Cinema Kids! Grab a blanket, lay back on the grass under the stars and enjoy free screenings of classics, family favorites, comedies and big-screen adventures. Now in its 10th year, this much-loved tradition is curated with care: adult films are selected by the Thessaloniki Film Festival, exploring human connection, while the kids' program features fun tales of unexpected heroes. All movies are screened outdoors in the park – and admission is free!
Cine Paris
The historic open-air cinema of Athens has been beautifully renovated and returned to its devoted audience. Since the 1920s, Cine Paris in Plaka has been a symbol of summer movie nights beneath the imposing presence of the Acropolis. Now, a century after its debut and four years after its last screening, the legendary Cine Paris is reopening its doors, reviving the legacy and charm of a classic Athenian summertime experience. Under the artistic direction of the Greek streaming platform Cinobo, the cinema presents a carefully curated selection of films, each chosen to reflect the venue’s deep cultural and historical roots. The theatre’s long-awaited return promises not only cinematic enjoyment but also a sense of nostalgia and elegance. Cine Paris welcomes guests daily from 19:30, offering the perfect opportunity to savor the golden hour with a drink from its newly refurbished bar before the film begins.
22 Kydathinaion Str., +30 2103252996 / www.cineparis.gr
Ecran
Recently renovated, Ecran invites cinephiles into a leafy garden setting, where cold beers and delicious nachos from the upgraded canteen set the tone for an atmospheric evening. Alongside its cozy charm, the theater screens award-winning films and hosts curated tributes that spark conversation and reflection. Declared a listed open-air cinema in 1997, Ecran holds a special place in Athens’ cultural landscape. It began operating shortly after the fall of Greece’s dictatorship, quickly earning a reputation as the premier art cinema of its time. It played a pioneering role in introducing Greek audiences to independent international films, the French New Wave and bold avant-garde cinema.
Zoodochou Pigis & Agathiou Str., +30 2106461895
Cine Thisio
Watching a film at Cine Thisio is nothing short of magical. Named the Best Cinema in the World by CNN in 2014 and ranked among the top 10 theatres globally by the BBC, it’s widely regarded as Athens’ most beloved open-air cinema. What sets it apart –beyond its storied reputation– is the breathtaking side view of the Acropolis, softly illuminated as night falls. Since 1935, Cine Thisio has preserved the nostalgic charm of a bygone era. Nestled in a spacious, flower-filled garden with retro seating and vintage 1960s décor, the theatre offers a timeless setting for cinematic evenings. Adding to the unique atmosphere are the delights from its coffee-bar: homemade sour cherry spoon sweets, hand-crafted sour cherry liqueur, refreshing frozen sour cherry juice and savory hand made cheese pies – all part of an experience that blends tradition, taste and visual splendor.
7 Apostolou Pavlou Str., +30 2103420864
Cine Athinaia
Cine Athinaia is a true local of Kolonaki, quietly nestled among the neighborhood’s residential buildings. For decades, it has been weaving its own story, offering unforgettable summer nights beneath the stars to generations of Athenians. A charming mix of longtime residents and young cinephiles gathers in its intimate garden, where the air is fragrant with jasmine and climbing greenery softens the urban backdrop. The setting is both cozy and elegant, a hidden gem in the heart of the city. No visit is complete without a taste of Mrs. Eleni’s beloved homemade cheese pie, a local treasure in its own right.
50 Charitos Str., +30 2114130430
Pool Your Cinema
Summer nights take on a distinctly luxurious charm at Pool Your Cinema, the open-air screening experience on the 7th floor of the iconic Hotel Grande Bretagne. First launched in 2021 for the hotel’s guests and residents, this unique venue offers a blend of classic film nostalgia and contemporary elegance. Set against a breathtaking backdrop of Lycabettus Hill, the Acropolis and the glittering lights of Athens, guests can enjoy beloved classics and Hollywood blockbusters beside the pool, in an atmosphere both romantic and refined. The evening is elevated by a curated menu of gourmet finger food crafted by the hotel’s award-winning executive chef, Asterios Koustoudis. Highlights include caramelized popcorn with Madagascar vanilla, Black Angus cheeseburgers and handmade nachos – each dish as carefully chosen as the films themselves.
1 Vasileos Georgiou A' Str., +30 2103330000
