Exarcheia
Exarcheia (Ex-'AR-hee-a) is a colorful, urban neighborhood that appeals to artists and intellectuals. Heavily populated by students and activists from the neighboring universities, one can easily find a dense concentration of book stores, bio cafes, and venues for alternative music. It lays northwest of Lycabbetus Hill, framed by the streets Patision, Panepistimiou, and Leoforos Alexandras. The Victoria metro station takes you to the northwestern border, close to the National Archaeological Museum, while the Panepistimiou station drops you just south. The Athens Polytechnic is in the heart of Exarcheia and is historically important for the student uprising against the military dictatorship on November 17, 1973. Strefi hill, while not being one of the most picturesque green spaces of Athens, offers great views of the city and is speckled with the favorite tavernas and cafes of the areas locals. Walking through Exarcheia gives visitors a genuine alternative to the touristy area of the Acropolis, but its close connection to political activism makes it a risky zone on days of city-wide demonstrations.
Hotels
Hostel Aphrodite I
Best Western Museum Hotel
