Syntagma Square is a central Athens landmark in front of the Hellenic Parliament, with metro, tram and other public-transport connections. You can see the Evzones at the Tomb of the Unknown Soldier and, on Sundays, watch the official changing-of-the-guard ceremony.
- Location: central Athens, beside the Hellenic Parliament
- Guard routine: pairs change every hour on the hour
- Sunday ceremony: 11:00 a.m.
- Transport: Athens Metro Lines 2 and 3, tram and connecting services
Getting to Syntagma Square
Syntagma Square is about a five-minute walk from Hermes Hotel. If you are planning a longer city walk, see this one-day Athens route from the central hotel area.
Filellinon Street starts at Syntagma Square and continues as an extension of Stadiou Street.
The square and the Hellenic Parliament
The Hellenic Parliament stands beside Syntagma Square, where the Tomb of the Unknown Soldier is guarded by the Evzones. The ceremonial unit’s history dates to 1868, when an elite combatant and ceremonial unit of the Hellenic Army was established.
Since democracy was restored in Greece in 1974, it has been called the Presidential Guard and has had a purely ceremonial character.
The square also works as a central reference point for nearby places. The National Historic Museum, Roman Agora of Athens and Tower of the Winds are each about a six-minute walk away.
Changing of the Guard: schedule and viewing
The Evzones guard the Tomb of the Unknown Soldier around the clock, changing pairs every hour on the hour. The larger official ceremony takes place, when a contingent accompanied by a military band marches from the Presidential Guard camp to the tomb.
If you are planning around the Sunday ceremony, arrive in time to find a place to watch before the procession begins. The regular hourly change and the Sunday ceremony are distinct parts of the guard routine.
Nearby National Garden and central sights
The National Garden is next to Syntagma Square, making it a natural addition to a visit to the Parliament frontage. For practical details on paths and entrances, use this guide to visiting the National Garden in Athens.
Other central landmarks include the Metropolitan Cathedral of Athens, about three minutes on foot away, and Frissiras Museum, about six minutes on foot away. The Roman Agora of Athens and the Tower of the Winds are also about six minutes away on foot. These timings can help you group a square visit with other stops nearby.
Metro, walking and visitor facilities
Syntagma is served by Athens Metro Lines 2 and 3 and the tram, with connections to other public transport. STASY lists two station entrances and exits: Amalias / National Garden and Panepistimiou / Megali Vretania. For help using the central stations, see this guide to Athens Metro and Syntagma.
The station has a ticket office and a Passenger Service Department beside the Syntagma Square exit. Opening hours and transport timetables can change, so check the official site before you go. STASY is the operator for the station information.
FAQs
How often do the Evzones change guard?
Pairs change every hour on the hour at the Tomb of the Unknown Soldier.
When is the official changing-of-the-guard ceremony?
The larger ceremony is held every Sunday at 11:00 a.m., with a military band accompanying the contingent.
Which metro lines serve Syntagma?
Syntagma is served by Athens Metro Lines 2 and 3, as well as the tram.
Where are the Syntagma station entrances?
STASY lists entrances and exits at Amalias / National Garden and Panepistimiou / Megali Vretania.