Easter in 2025 falls on April 20th for both Orthodox and Catholic Christians, making it the perfect time to visit Athens, Greece during this time!
Greece has a predominantly Orthodox population, and Easter is celebrated with great enthusiasm. For Orthodox Christians, Easter is even more significant than Christmas, as it represents the Victory of God over death through the resurrection of Christ. At the same time, nature celebrates with the rebirth of flora and fauna, as Spring revitalizes the landscape after the winter months. The first warm sunrays touch the ground, preparing for the arrival of Summer.
Holy Celebrations during Easter in Athens
During the Holy Week, all the churches open their doors to the public. It’s a wonderful opportunity to attend the Divine Liturgy and admire the ancient Byzantine hymns.
On Good Friday, the church bells ring mournfully across the city. Around 9 PM, each church holds a procession, where people follow with candles, walking through the streets behind a wooden bier decorated with flowers symbolizing Christ’s coffin. A special procession is organized at the Monastery of Kaisariani at noon (around 2 PM) on the nearby Mount Hymettus.
On Saturday at midnight, people gather at churches to celebrate the Resurrection of Christ and receive the Holy Flame, which was lit at Christ’s tomb. Fireworks light up the skies over cities and people wish “Χριστός ἀνέστη” (Christos Anesti) which means “Christ is risen” while receiving the Holy Flame from one another with their decorated candles.
Food and Drinks
Greek cuisine is renowned for its delicious flavours. During the Holy Week, there is strict fasting, but you can still enjoy delicious fish and other seafood at local tavernas. On our Free Travel Guide, you’ll find some of the best tavernas by the sea, along the coasts around Athens!
On Sunday, the fasting ends, and the tradition is to host large public feasts with lamb and “kokoretsi.”
Greek Kokoretsi
Connect with Nature
Easter in Greece is not just a celebration of humanity, but also a celebration of nature! While Japan has its Sakura blooms, Athens is known for the blooming of bitter orange trees in Spring. Their sight may not be as impressive, but their fragrance, spreading across the urban streets, will stay in your memory for many years! If Spring had a scent, this would be it!
Athens also offers large parks perfect for walking. The “Stavros Niarchos” Foundation Park and the “National Gardens” are ideal and close to the city center. Nearby, you can hike on the mountains of Hymettus, the Philopappos Hill, or Lykavettus.
For birdwatching, the Vravrona and Schinias bioreserves near the coastline, are fantastic destinations. More information can be found in our Free Travel Guide.
Enjoy the beautiful Coasts and Sea
No Greek vacation is complete without exploring the stunning coasts and the sea, which offer unforgettable views. What better way to experience this than on a mini cruise, visiting magical locations from a unique perspective? From just 35€ you can visit 4 swimming destinations, while passing by historical, natural, and cultural sights. It is not only an easy and affordable alternative to island visits but it also allows you to get a taste of the not-so-tourist-known beauty close to Athens! Book a cruise here.
East Attica Cruises is has the ONLY boat in Attica with a Blue Flag award ensuring safety (highly qualified crew and lifeguard on board) and environmentally friendly policies. And for the brave, the crystal-clear waters offer the perfect opportunity for a refreshing swim in Spring! In late April, the sea temperature ranges from 16°C to 19°C, while the air temperature exceeds 22°C.
Check the availability and book a boat tour directly from the website here!
Enjoy your Easter in Athens, and we look forward to welcoming you on board “Resalto”!