Visiting Mount Lycabettus Question

[voula_slat]

I have never been to Mount Lycabettus, although I've been to Athens a handful of times - it just never came up to go here.

Here are some questions I have:

A few specific questions I have include:

• What's the best time of day to visit Mount Lycabettus? Is it good at sunset?
• Are there any hiking trails that you'd recommend?
• How difficult is the trek up the hill? Is it suitable for beginners or those not used to hiking?
• Is the funicular railway worth the ride, or is it better to walk?
• Are there any facilities (like cafes or restrooms) available at the top or along the way?
• Do you have any safety tips or things to watch out for?

Thanks in advance!

 

[Vangelis]

Sunset gets very busy at the top of Lycabettus - I avoid it. I go early mornings where you can get a great view of the whole of Athens. The first time I went, I took the funicular but really it is more fun walking up as you have great views along the way and the funicular does not let you see the Athens views. It is an easy trek although you have to pick the time of day as it gets hot during the day - take water with you! There is a great café along the way, Prasini Tenta which is great to sit and have a coffee and enjoy the views. It is pricey though but just like having a coffee on the caldera on Santorini is more about he experience and the views rather than the coffee, you will pay for it. Also there is a restaurant at the top which doesn't have great food to be honest although last time I went was many years ago - it may have improved. As for restroom facilities, I believe the restaurant at the top may have them as well as the café I mentioned. If you are worried about safety when hiking, you can stay away from the dirt paths and walk up the road and use the concrete walkway to get up to the top. Alternatively, you can take a taxi up to the walkway and just walk up that to shorten your walk.

Hopefully I have answered all your questions but if you have any more, feel free to post them here.

 

[k_tsoukalas]

Excellent advice, Vangelis! I heard similar things about Lycvabettus - especially during peak season. Thank you so much for the cafe recommendation! This is good stuff.

I haven't personally been to Lycabettus, but someday I think I might try ... maybe only if I go during an off peak time - I don't think dealing with the crowds would be Wirth it.