What makes it 80% Couple-Friendly: Couples can admire ornate architecture together, light candles, photograph in Mitropoleos Square and attend liturgy, yet lack of seating privacy and limited on-site extras keep it slightly short of perfect.
Why 1-2 hours visit duration is ideal for couple trip: Couples can explore the cathedral and nearby square at a relaxed pace.
Admire Greco-Byzantine architecture:
Walk around inside and outside to see the copper dome, twin bell towers, and marble iconostasis.
Tip: Start outside to capture the full façade before entering.
Light a ritual candle:
Purchase small paraffin candles (€1 each) and place them before an icon together.
Tip: Buy two candles at the stand and set them side by side for a shared moment.
Attend a service:
Join Saturday Great Vespers (4 PM) or Sunday Divine Liturgy (10 AM) free of charge.
Tip: Arrive 10 minutes early to find a seat near the iconostasis.
Photograph Mitropoleos Square:
Relax on benches opposite the church and frame the cathedral in your shots.
Tip: Capture golden hour light on the dome for the best photos.

Justice Kali Di Quartuccio
Cathedral Mitropolis open daily except Monday. 11am - 6 pm. Considered the Greek Vatican, this is the best thing to see in Athens. Outside is a statute of archbishop damaskinos who spoke against the nazi treatment of Jews during WWII. He was mocked by Nazis and never lost his cool. Post war, he was the unofficial prime minister. His right hand forms the four letters I, C,X, C. This is short for J...
Juan Terra
The Church stands out with its tall façade, elegant details, and wide steps leading up to the entrance. Even from the outside, it feels grand and important. The square around it is open and pleasant, with enough space to look at the church from different angles. It’s a solid, impressive landmark right in the center of Athens.
Joan Cartales
This is the national cathedral for the country of Greece. The cathedral itself is imposing and beautiful. It dates from around 1860, after the Greek War of Independence. The decorations in the cathedral are ornate and beautifully wrought, and the architecture reflects the sacred feeling of hhe space. If you light a candle, please leave an offering (small payment). All of the photos in this review...
Andres Emilio Soto
This is the biggest tourist attraction on Tino's but also for Greeks who come from all around their country to pay respect to the Virgin Mary. Many dedicated people crawl on their hands and knees up the hill for many blocks to enter into the church. Try to avoid any masses of you want to enter easily. Tickets are not needed. There is also a holy water fountain and beautiful cave of worship below t...
Bong Arquiza
I recently visited the Metropolitan Cathedral of Athens, and while it wasn’t as massive or imposing as I expected for the capital city’s main Orthodox church, it still left a deep impression. The space is relatively small, but incredibly ornate. The decor is rich with gold accents, beautiful icons, detailed woodwork, and intricate chandeliers. Every inch feels intentional and full of reverence. Th...
Visit in spring or autumn to avoid summer heat and crowds. In summer, arrive before 10 AM to beat the midday sun.
Explore These Activities
| Item | Cost (Approx.) |
|---|---|
| Candle lighting for two | EUR 2 |
| Optional coffee in square (two) | EUR 8 |
| Total Estimated | EUR 10 |
Note: All prices are indicative and may vary. Please check directly with the venue for the most accurate and up-to-date information.
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Address: E056 105, Athina 118 54, Greece
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