Hellenic Parliament Athens
Iconic 19th-century palace in Athens, home to Greece's parliament and the solemn Tomb of the Unknown Soldier.
Highlights
Must-see attractions
Social
From TikTok & Reddit
Best Time
Full ceremonial guard change
Hellenic Parliament Athens
Best Time
Full ceremonial guard change
Highlights
Must-see attractions
Iconic 19th-century palace in Athens, home to Greece's parliament and the solemn Tomb of the Unknown Soldier.
"The Changing of the Guard is a must-see spectacle with unique uniforms and precise movements!"
🎯 Arrive Early for Guard Change
Get to Syntagma Square 30-45 mins before the Changing of the Guard to snag a prime viewing spot. :camerawithflash:
👔 Dress Respectfully
While not strictly enforced for viewing the guards, dress modestly when near the Tomb of the Unknown Soldier. :manintunic:
Highlights
Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences
Changing of the Guard
Syntagma Square
Witness the unique Evzones ceremonial guards in their distinctive uniforms. A must-see spectacle!
Tomb of the Unknown Soldier
Syntagma Square
A solemn memorial with a profound inscription from Thucydides. A place for reflection.
Parliament Building Architecture
Syntagma Square
Admire the neoclassical grandeur of this historic 19th-century palace, a symbol of Greek democracy.
Planning Your Visit
Timing Your Visit to the Hellenic Parliament
Understanding the Tomb of the Unknown Soldier
Best Times
Insider Tips
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit
The Hellenic Parliament building, with the Tomb of the Unknown Soldier.
🎯 Arrive Early for Guard Change
Get to Syntagma Square 30-45 mins before the Changing of the Guard to snag a prime viewing spot. :camerawithflash:
👔 Dress Respectfully
While not strictly enforced for viewing the guards, dress modestly when near the Tomb of the Unknown Soldier. :manintunic:
🚶♂️ Explore Nearby
Combine your visit with exploring Syntagma Square and the National Garden. :park_park:
Tips
from all over the internet
🎯 Arrive Early for Guard Change
Get to Syntagma Square 30-45 mins before the Changing of the Guard to snag a prime viewing spot. :camerawithflash:
👔 Dress Respectfully
While not strictly enforced for viewing the guards, dress modestly when near the Tomb of the Unknown Soldier. :manintunic:
🚶♂️ Explore Nearby
Combine your visit with exploring Syntagma Square and the National Garden. :park_park:
What Travellers Say
Reviews Summary
Visitors are captivated by the visually striking Changing of the Guard ceremony, with the unique Evzones uniforms and precise movements being a major draw. The solemnity and powerful inscription at the Tomb of the Unknown Soldier also leave a lasting impression. While the building's exterior is admired, access inside is limited.
"The Hellenic Parliament building is an ochre-coloured neo classical building, which overlooks the Syntagma Square in Athens. The building houses Greece's legislative body. It is where the modern Greek state began. Every day, there is a 1hr long guided tour free of charge. It offers visitors the opportunity to discover the Assembly Hall, as well as to learn about Modern Greek history, the form of government in Greece, parliamentary procedures and the history of the Hellenic Parliament building. Do take the opportunity to visit the parliament building, if you come to visit Athens, Greece."
Rahmah Ramli
"A must-see while in Athens! The Hellenic Parliament building is impressive, rich in history, and located right at Syntagma Square. Don’t miss the Changing of the Guard ceremony—it’s a unique and symbolic tradition that’s worth watching. Great photo opportunities and an easy stop during your city walk!"
Yordanka Vasileva
"A must-see while in Athens! The Hellenic Parliament building is impressive, rich in history, and located right at Syntagma Square. Don’t"
W. B.
What People Like
What People Dislike
Frequently Asked Questions
🚇 🗺️ Getting There
The Hellenic Parliament is located in Syntagma Square, easily accessible by Athens Metro. Take Line 2 or 3 to Syntagma Station. Many bus routes also stop nearby. It's a central hub, making it simple to reach from most parts of the city.
Parking in Syntagma Square is extremely limited and expensive. It's highly recommended to use public transport like the metro or buses to reach the Hellenic Parliament.
If you're staying in central Athens, walking to the Hellenic Parliament is a great option. It's a pleasant stroll through the city center, allowing you to see more of Athens along the way.
🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry
No, viewing the exterior of the Hellenic Parliament and the Changing of the Guard ceremony in Syntagma Square is free. Access inside the Parliament building is generally not permitted for tourists without special arrangements.
The Changing of the Guard happens hourly, every hour on the hour. The most elaborate ceremony with a full platoon takes place on Sundays at 11 AM.
There is no entrance fee to view the Tomb of the Unknown Soldier. It is an open memorial in Syntagma Square, accessible to everyone.
Public access inside the Hellenic Parliament building is restricted. Tours are typically only available for organized groups or by special arrangement, often requiring advance booking.
📸 📸 Photography
To get the best photos of the Changing of the Guard, arrive early to secure a spot at the front. Use a camera with a good zoom to capture the details of the Evzones' uniforms and their precise movements.
Photography is generally permitted in Syntagma Square for personal use. However, be mindful of the solemnity of the Tomb of the Unknown Soldier and avoid intrusive photography.
The Parliament building looks stunning in the golden hour light, both at sunrise and sunset. Weekday mornings offer fewer people, making it easier to capture unobstructed shots of the neoclassical architecture.
For Different Travelers
Tailored advice for your travel style
👨👩👧 Families with Kids
While the Tomb of the Unknown Soldier is a solemn site, explaining its purpose in simple terms can be educational. Consider visiting the nearby National Garden for a break, offering playgrounds and a chance for kids to run around after witnessing the guards.
🏛️ History Buffs
Take time to appreciate the architectural style of the palace and consider researching its history prior to your visit. Understanding the context of its construction and its role in Greek political life will enrich your experience.
Deep Dives
In-depth insights and expert knowledge
The Evzones: Guardians of the Tomb
Witnessing the Changing of the Guard is a highlight for many visitors to Athens. The ceremony occurs hourly, but the most impressive display is on Sundays at 11 AM, featuring a larger contingent of Evzones marching to a drumbeat. It's a powerful visual representation of Greek heritage and national pride, drawing significant crowds to Syntagma Square.
Visitors often remark on the stoicism and dedication of the Evzones. While they maintain a serious demeanor during their duty, they are known to interact politely with visitors when off-duty. It's a unique cultural experience that offers a glimpse into Greece's military traditions and historical continuity.
The Tomb of the Unknown Soldier: A Monumental Inscription
The inscription, famously quoted from the historian Thucydides, reads: "For the whole earth is the sepulchre of famous men; and their glory is not written only on stone monuments, but is impressed on the memory of mankind." This timeless quote emphasizes the enduring legacy of those who sacrificed their lives for their country, transcending physical markers.
Visitors often pause here for a moment of quiet reflection, appreciating the historical significance and the profound message of the inscription. It serves as a solemn reminder of the human cost of war and the importance of remembering those who fought for freedom and nationhood.
Social
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