Areopagus Hill

After visiting the Parthenon, people naturally drift here, as if pulled by gravity and Instagram. It's a rocky hill steeped in history with wide-open views. On paper, it sounds perfect. In reality, however, it’s terrifying. Climbing up feels less like sightseeing and more like practising for a free solo. You cling to the smooth rock as your shoes slip and your hands search desperately for purchase. This isn't just difficult for elderly visitors — children could easily hurt themselves here. One wrong step and it's all over. At the top, however, the reward is undeniable. Athens spreads out beautifully below you. The sky feels close. And yet, there’s still no fence. None. Young people laugh and jump around on uneven rocks, mere inches from a drop that offers no second chances. The scenery is stunning, but my stomach is in knots the whole time. Strangely, the way down is perfectly safe: proper metal stairs, handrails and common sense. This makes you wonder: why isn't it the same on the way up? Is danger part of the 'authentic experience'? History is precious, yes. But safety shouldn't be optional. Someone will get seriously hurt here one day. I just hope that changes are made before that lesson is learned the hard way.

This is a free and easily accessible walk to a historic viewpoint. Nice place to watch the sunset and great views of the Acropolis and surrounding city of Athens.

Originally there was another entrance to Areopagus Hill, with actual stairs and description of Areopagus. However, that entrance was closed when we visited – likely due to ongoing excavation works there. Hence, the only way up to Areopagus Hill is at Apostolou Pavlou, close to Thision Open Air Cinema. This also means that the climb can be a little challenging and definitely not suitable for kids and the elderly. This is because at the start of the climb (notice that we used the word “climb” 😅), there are not clear demarcated routes and a couple of areas where we had to use our hands to balance as we ascended (likewise when we descended). Moreover, the path have gravels on slopes and if you’re not careful, may slip. Likewise, closer to the top, you will be walking on rocks that have “shiny” surfaces which are indicative of these surfaces being slippery as well. So you will really need to be careful when you climb up to Areopagus Hill now. There are a couple of good things about the climb up Areopagus Hill as compared to Lycabettus. Firstly, the climb is much shorter. Within 10 minutes, you would be able to reach the summit of Areopagus Hill as compared to Lycabettus which took us about 30 minutes. Secondly, the views of Acropolis and even the Ancient Agora are unparalleled. Definitely worth a climb up if you’re in good physical condition... For the full details of our visit to Areopagus Hill and our 5 months Round The World (RTW) travels in 2025, visit 2bearbear today!

Areopagus Hill (or Mars Hill) is a rocky outcrop near the Acropolis in Athens, Greece, famous as the meeting place for the ancient city's high court and council, the Areopagus, handling serious crimes and law, and notably, the site where St. Paul delivered his sermon on the "Unknown God," converting Dionysius. Today, it's a popular, free-to-visit spot offering panoramic views of the Ancient Agora, Acropolis, and the Aegean Sea, rich in history, mythology, and spiritual significance.

Wow, we visited the site where the Areopagite Council met (also a court for certain cases) and where the Apostle Paul gave his famous sermon in Athens about their unknown God. It is just to the left of the path to the Acropolis and should not be missed. Beautiful view and location. Be aware of your footing as the hill is worn and slick.

Absolutely gorgeous The name "Areooagus Hill luterally means" Hill of Ares (the Greek God of War) Hugly recommend to climp this hill. View is incredible.over rhe Athens. I went there from Thissio side and way up was ok.

A must go free hill when going from the northern entrance (main entrance ) of the Acropolis To het the best view towards the city of Athens including the gate of the acropolis & the ancient agora Totally worth it with breathtaking views

Sunrise not busy. Amazing views of Acropolis and Athens. Smooth rocks are slippery, wear good hiking shoes