Open air cinemas

Open cinemas

During warm summer nights, outdoor film screenings are a habit most treasured by Athenians. Little tables and chairs aligned under the stars and the air filled with the scents of jasmine mixed with the distinct and irresistible flavors of hot buttered pop-corn. Here is a list of the best open air movie theaters in the Athenian neighborhoods.

By CHristinA VAsiLeiADis

7 Ap. Pavlou Str., +302103420864 Ticket price: MON-WED: €6.50 THU-SUN: €8.50

Built in 1935, this summer outdoor movie theater, found in the heart of Athens, near the historic regions of Thissio and Plaka, famous for being one of the most enjoyable open-air cinemas in the world, is perfect for a movie night out in Athens. The selection of movies ranges from old classics loved then and now to newly released movies that are carefully selected. Enjoy homemade sweet sour cherry dessert as well as handmade liquor or an ice cold homemade sour cherry juice. Pl.Dexamenis, Kolonaki, +302103602363 Ticket price: General admission €8, Student discount €5, WED €5

Located in the center of Kolonaki, one of Athens’ most historic areas, this open-air theater is surrounded by busy streets and beautiful plants. Built in 1991 on top of the water tank that provided Athens with water up until the mid-20th century. The selection of movies ranges from blockbusters to European cinema, selected based on the quality of the movie and not necessarily its popularity. 4 Vasilissis Olgas Ave., Zappeion, +302103369300 Ticket price: starting from €6 Athens’ oldest open-air cinema built in 1903 in the garden of Zappeio Hall, next to the National Garden and the Parliament building. Its café offers a range of snacks, souvlaki skewers and other food you can enjoy while watching a movie. For a more private experience, you can book a private screening on the veranda, for up to 8 people, with an option of a private dinner prepared by a chef from the next-door restaurant Aigli. 82 Themistokleous Str., Exarcheia, +302103810727 Ticket price: General admission €7, children, students and persons over 65y.o. €6 Every MON&TUE €5 Every THU €8 for two people One of the oldest outdoor cinemas in Greece, built in 1938, located in Exarcheia. A 10-minute walk from both Omonoia and Panepistimio station, but only discovered by few international visitors. The rooftop terrace overlooks the busy Exarcheia square. It arguably has one of the best selection of films amongst the open-air cinemas of Athens.