We found ourselves here while trying to get to the temple of haephestus - which was not all easy to find even with gps (and the multi site tickets we bought for the Acropolis didn’t include this temple so we could only see it through the fence). However the stroll through monastiraki was worth the misadventure. This quaint town was less touristy than plaka and had more restaurants and shops that weren’t catering to the masses on their way to or from the Acropolis. If we were to plan a trip through a small town near the Acropolis, we would choose monasteraki rather than plaka.

Great area. Easy to get to so many places. Make sure you have walking shoes and can handle it. My energetic 83 year old Mom couldn't. My 57 year old self struggled a bit. If staying in the square (We stayed at 360 Degrees Athens Hotel, which has been nice, clean and comfortable) bring really good earplugs. It is 2:00 am on Saturday night ( really Sunday morning) as I writing this and I can hear the night clubs and music outside and we have a back, "quiet" room and have tried two different kinds of earplugs. Yes, watch your wallet and all the other global travel precautions but enjoy what the area has to offer.

Once you’ve visited the Acropolis and the Acropolis Museum, Monastiraki is a good area to start exploring other parts of Athens. It is a lively, crowded area that centres around Monastiraki Square and spills out around it. Most tourists will find themselves here at some point. The main attractions on the square are the Flea Market, the ancient little Church of St. Mary Pantanassa and the Tzisdarakis Mosque. The Flea Market is always listed as a big attraction but we found this to be of little interest as it mainly consisted of pretty stock standard souvenir shops and stalls. I believe that Sundays are different when a more authentic flea market operates here. Nearby are Hadrians’ Library, the Roman Agora and the Ancient Agora. These are all within easy walking distance of each other and are all included in the €30 Acropolis combo ticket (although its worth noting that you can get a good view of the library from the street without entering the site. Similarly, you can see the Tower of the Winds and Gate of Athena Archegetis at the Roman Agora very well from outside). The Temple of Hephaestus, inside the Ancient Agora was a highlight. Built around 450 BC, during during the ‘Golden Age’ of Athens, it is the best preserved temple in Athens. There are lots of bars and restaurants around this area. We enjoyed O Thanasis for authentic local Greek food. It’s located just off the square (see separate review). Monastiraki is very easy to get to and the train station is located in the centre of the square.

Every traveler to Athens will undoubtedly be enjoying this square. It’s central in the city and a major hub of vendors, restaurants and even street musicians! My husband and I recommend staying awhile and not just passing through. The Parthenon is up on the Acropolis in the distance. It’s walking distance from the market and many great hotels.. The Metro and Hop-On Hop-Off also offer a stop there! Note: the Monastiraki Station of the Metro line-they uncovered 8th Century ruins!

Beautiful city but pick pockets are rampant and very well organised. They distracted us by engaging the kids on the metro and with much jostling and pushing, managed to get my wallet deep in my bag. They come in all ages and sizes. The ones who hit us were an older couple … probably in their 50s. Taxi driver was extremely dishonest too. Claimed the meter was out of order and it was Christmas when we had agreed before the ride, the meter would be used. Also took 50 euro from me and claimed I gave him 10 after flipping the note with another he had in his pocket. It is Christmas so I decided to let him have it … nothing good comes from dishonesty anyway. Disappointing overall for a tourist. Lovely surroundings but one time is enough. Many other beautiful cities to visit where it is safer and I don’t need to continuously look over my shoulder. Just don’t feel safe here.

There are pickpockets operating here, and men will harass you if you’re a solo woman. Merchants will also rip you off. It’s a pretty place to walk around but don’t talk to anyone and keep your valuables safe

We felt safe staying in this area during our time in Athens and found it was easy to find good food at restaurants everywhere we went. We visited in March and didn't find it too crowded but could definitely see it getting crowded in the summer season. This area is full of affordable souvenir shops, cafes, bars, restaurants and hotels. Many of the hotels in the area had rooftop bars which were perfect for a relaxing drink away from the streets and gave fantastic views of both the sunset and the Acropolis. We also like how the locals take care of the cats and they are pretty much everywhere as well. Major sites in Athens can be found here like the Roman Agora, Hadrian's Library and some of the oldest churches. There are also some modern sites here like the Museum of Illusions and a Flea Market. The closest metro is Monastiraki and two lines go through this station. The station also has some ruins that are visible inside the station.

A very busy central area with a metro station in the heart of Athens. There is a flea market with many other streets littered with tourist shops and an awfully large range of restaurants. I didn’t enjoy the pressure of being constantly asked to stop and eat in Athens. It seems to be standard practice to drag your customers in ad people wander by enjoying the sights. All in all a very lively place and very busy please be aware of the pick pockets! I nearly got done twice. There are some girls that try snd distract you with free roses and try snd get into your bags please have your wits and be cautious at all times especially in the evening when it is very crowded

Monastiraki is a fantastic place to wander and gaze and shop at all the beautiful stores. There are souvenir shops, jewelry stores, fashion stores, eateries, anything you want. The narrow, quaint, cobblestone streets are full of upbeat, happy travellers enjoying the historical views.

Monastiraki offers an excellent environment for exploration, featuring a variety of charming shops. Visitors can find souvenir outlets, jewelry boutiques, fashion retailers, and dining options, catering to diverse preferences. The narrow, picturesque cobblestone streets are vibrant with cheerful travelers appreciating the historical scenery.