Mount Lycabettus summit hike: 360° Athens views

Climb above the city and reach the viewpoint most tour groups skip

A guided hike up Mount Lycabettus, Athens's highest peak, takes you from the Kolonaki neighborhood through forest to the summit and a hidden overlook called "the balcony," which frames the Acropolis differently than the crowded main viewpoints. The 90-minute route climbs uphill on rugged terrain and ends on a descent via a separate path.

Step-by-step itinerary

Hike Mount Lycabettus and enjoy views

• Pass through Kolonaki neighborhood
• Hike uphill to Mount Lycabettus summit
• Visit the balcony with Acropolis view

Stops and time spent at each 3 stops

1. Kolonaki / Lykavittos passing by
2. Mount Lycabettus 15m
3. Lykavittos (Mount Lycabettus) 5m

What’s included

Guided hike led by an English-speaking guide.

Times

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• Every day 13:15

Information

Climb Mount Lycabettus, Athens's tallest peak, on a guided 90-minute hike through Kolonaki to the summit and the hidden Acropolis viewpoint known as "the balcony."

Group Up to 10 · max 6 per booking 1 similar private tour ›

Live guide English

Meeting point and pickup No hotel pickup: you go to the meeting point. Ends back at the starting point. See the exact address

Book up to 3h before

Ages Adult (18 and older) · Child (under 18)

Cancellation and refunds Free cancellation up to 24 h before the start. After that, no refund.

Good to know

Physically demanding Public transport nearby Not recommended during pregnancy Not recommended with heart problems Not recommended with back problems

More information The exact meeting point address, the operator’s instructions and every other detail are in the full listing. See the full listing

Traveler reviews

5.00 ★★★★★ Exceptional 6 verified traveler reviews

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The experience

You start in Kolonaki, where the neighborhood abruptly gives way to trees and the city noise drops behind you. The hike itself is steady uphill through forest to the Mount Lycabettus summit, where the 360-degree views open across Athens: the Acropolis, the sprawl of the city, the surrounding hills. Most tour operators in Athens skip this peak, which means the crowds thin out fast once you leave the main tourist routes.

On the descent, your guide takes you via a different path to a spot locals call "the balcony," a viewpoint that frames the Acropolis from an angle you won't find in the guidebooks. The whole outing runs 90 minutes, but the terrain is steep and uneven, so you need a solid level of fitness and comfortable hiking shoes. The walk rewards effort with sightlines that justify the sweat.

Top questions

Can children come?

Yes. Ticket types: Child (under 18).

How steep is the hike up Mount Lycabettus?

Mount Lycabettus is a steady uphill climb on rugged terrain, not a gentle walk. You'll gain elevation throughout, and the ground is uneven in places, so good fitness and proper footwear matter.

What makes the "balcony" viewpoint special?

The balcony is a hidden overlook on the descent route that frames the Acropolis from a different angle than the main tourist viewpoints. It's the spot locals use when they want the best Acropolis view in Athens.

Do I need to arrange my own way to the starting point in Kolonaki?

Public transportation options are available near the meeting point. Your guide will confirm the exact pickup location and transit details when you book.

Is this hike suitable if I haven't hiked in a while?

The hike requires a high level of physical fitness because of the steep, uneven terrain. If you're unsure about your fitness level, check with the operator before booking.

Operated by Ultimate Athens. Explorevia does not run this tour: we compare it with similar options, and you book it with our booking partner.

Prices and times updated 3 days ago