Things To Do
in Ymittós
Ymittós is a green hill range overlooking Athens, offering easy access to nature while remaining close to the capital's cultural sites. The surrounding towns on its slopes—Kaisariani, Vrilissia, and Hymettus foothills—blend residential life with forested escape routes. From vantage points on the ridgeline, you get sweeping views of the city, the Acropolis district, and the Saronic Gulf.
It's a convenient base for outdoor activities during the day and relaxing hillside evenings just a short drive from central Athens.
Day Trips
Spend a day exploring around
Arrive in Ymittós and settle into your accommodation. Take a leisurely walk through the village streets to get a feel for the local atmosphere. Enjoy a coffee at a traditional kafeneio while watching daily village life unfold.
Visit the local church to admire its architecture and historical significance. Stop by a family-run taverna for a lunch of fresh Greek cuisine. Explore nearby artisan shops for handmade crafts and souvenirs.
Relax with a sunset stroll along the outskirts of the village, taking in panoramic views of the surrounding hills. Dine at a tavern with outdoor seating, savoring grilled meats and local wines. End the day with a quiet walk under the starlit sky.
Start early with a guided hike up the hills surrounding Ymittós. Enjoy the vibrant flora and birdlife native to the region as you ascend. Pause for photos of breathtaking views overlooking Athens and the Aegean Sea.
Descend to a picnic spot where you can indulge in packed local delicacies like olives, cheese, and bread. Rest and soak in the peaceful environment while chatting with fellow hikers. Visit small chapels hidden within the hills for a cultural touch.
Return to the village for a casual dinner featuring traditional Greek meze dishes. Attend a local cultural event or music performance if available. Wind down with a relaxing drink at a village bar.
Prices
| Item | Price |
|---|---|
| 🍔Meal at inexpensive restaurant | $10-15 |
| ☕Coffee or small cafe | $2-4 |
| 🥗Lunch in mid-range restaurant | $12-25 |
| 🏨Hotel per night (mid-range) | $60-120 |
| 🚆Public transport day pass | $6-8 |
Strengths and Weaknesses
- Proximity to Athens' cultural sights while offering easy access to nature on Mount Hymettus
- Outdoor activities and scenic hilltop viewpoints within short drives
- Friendly local tavernas and a relaxed hillside atmosphere
- Hilly terrain may be challenging for those with mobility issues
- Less nightlife compared to central Athens, especially on weekdays
- Some services and amenities are more spread out across hillside towns
- "Kalimera" - Good morning
- "Efharisto" - Thank you
- "Parakalo" - Please
- "Me onoma sas e..." - My name is...
- "Milate Anglika?" - Do you speak English?
Places to Visit in Ymittós
Visit one of these nice places.
Panoramic views across Athens, the Acropolis, and the Saronic Gulf especially at sunrise or sunset.
Forest paths, the historic monastery, and shaded lanes ideal for atmospheric photography.
Tree-lined hills with city glimpses through the pines, perfect for nature portraits.
Food in Ymittós
Ymittós Famous Food
Signature dishes, delicacies and famous food
Skewered grilled meat served with pita, lemon, tomatoes, and onions.
Must-Try!
Layers of eggplant, minced meat, and béchamel baked to golden perfection.
Flaky pastry triangles filled with spinach and feta.
Baked pasta with ground meat and creamy béchamel.
Baked fish with tomatoes, onions, and herbs.
Food Markets
Explore local food markets
Weekly farmers’ market offering fresh produce, olives, herbs, breads, and cheeses.
Weather
How to Behave
Tips on cultural norms and respectful behavior
Greet with a friendly hello; using a polite title is appreciated in first meetings.
Take small portions, say thank you with Efharisto; avoid loud behavior in sacred spaces.
Safety
Tipping in Ymittós
Ensure a smooth experience
In Greece, a tip of 5-10% is common in restaurants if service is not included; round up for small cafes.
Best Time to Visit
And what to expect in different seasons...
Mild temperatures and blooming wildflowers; great for outdoor hikes and photography.
Hot days; mornings and evenings are best for outdoor activities; beaches nearby for cooling off.
Pleasant temps and golden light; excellent for walks and sunset shots.
Rains are possible; milder temperatures; plan indoor options and waterproof gear.
Ymittós at Night
Hiking in Ymittós
Immerse in an unforgettable hike.
A popular loop offering expansive views over Athens and the Saronic Gulf.
Shaded runs through pine and plane trees with access to the monastery.
Various routes along the ridge for different difficulty levels.
Airports
How to reach Ymittós by plane.
About 20-30 km east of the city center; reachable by Metro (Airport X95), suburban rail, or taxi.
Walkability
Demographics
Explore demographics in this area.
A mix of families, students, and retirees living in hillside towns.
Some international residents and Greek students commuting to Athens universities.
Popular Sports
Explore popular sports in region.
Widely played and followed, with local clubs in the Athens metro area.
Common among schools and clubs; local stadiums and gyms available.
Community runs and parks around Ymittós and central Athens.
Traffic
Accomodations
Find the best place to stay when visiting Ymittós.
Dietary Restrictions
Tips for restricted diets.
Greek cuisine naturally offers veg options like spanakorizo, gigantes, grilled vegetables, and salads; ask to avoid cheese if vegan.