First Cemetery of Athens
A peaceful open-air gallery of 19th-century funerary sculpture — the 'Père Lachaise of Athens'.
The call
Worth it if you're watching the budget and you only have one day.
Short answer
Is First Cemetery of Athens worth it?
First Cemetery of Athens deserves a place on most first itineraries.
The answer depends on your budget, time and travel style; the breakdown below shows who gets the most value.
Why
- 01
It's a serene, almost empty park of cypress avenues and extraordinary marble sculpture (the 'Sleeping Maiden' is a masterpiece), free and deeply atmospheric for those who like cemeteries-as-art.
- 02
The catch: it's a working cemetery somewhat out of the way, the appeal is niche, and obviously it's a sombre choice rather than a fun one.
Is it a fit?
Go if
You're watching the budget
First Cemetery of Athens earns the spend, even on a tight budget.
You only have one day
Short trip or not, keep First Cemetery of Athens.
You're traveling as a couple
As a couple, First Cemetery of Athens is an easy yes.
You're traveling solo
Solo, First Cemetery of Athens is an easy yes.
Plan it well
- Cost
- Free
- Timing
- Morning, when it's coolest and quietest.
- Allow
- 45 min–1.5 hours
- Accessibility
- Mostly flat paved avenues; manageable for most.
- Getting there
- In Mets, a walk from Akropoli or the Panathenaic Stadium area.