Monument to the Unknown Soldier (with kids)
How Kids-Friendly is Monument to the Unknown Soldier?
What makes it 72% Kids-Friendly: Kids usually enjoy the pompoms and precise steps of the guards and can run in the nearby garden, yet the square has busy traffic, no toilets, no playground, and requires constant supervision.
Positives:
- Free Entry: The monument and guard ceremony are open-air with no admission fee.
- Stroller Friendly: Smooth pavement and ramps allow easy access up to the guardstand.
Challenges:
- No On-site Restrooms: Public toilets are outside the Parliament building; plan bathroom breaks before arrival.
- Hot Midday Sun: The square has almost no shade; bring hats and water in summer.
What is Monument to the Unknown Soldier?
- A marble cenotaph in front of the Hellenic Parliament, erected between 1930 and 1932
- A commemorative relief depicting an ancient Greek warrior, honoring those who fell in the War of Independence and later conflicts
- Displays Pericles’s eulogy in stone and features Evzones in traditional uniform as perpetual guards
What is so special about Monument to the Unknown Soldier for with kids?
- Kids love the Evzones’ precise hourly guard change
- Open-air monument with no admission fee
- Nearby National Garden offers ducks, turtles and shaded paths
- Easy stroller and Metro access make it family-friendly
Recommended visit duration: 1-2 hours
Why 1-2 hours visit duration is ideal for with kids: Allows time to watch the guard ceremony and explore the nearby garden at a relaxed pace.
Kids-Friendly Activities in Monument to the Unknown Soldier
Watch the Evzones Changing of the Guard:
See two guards perform a precise swap in their traditional uniform every hour.
Tip: Arrive 5 minutes early at the hour mark for front-row views; kids enjoy the rhythmic steps.
Story Time at the Monument:
Point out the hoplite relief and explain how it honors unknown soldiers.
Tip: Tell a simple story about ancient warriors to engage children for 5–10 minutes.
Explore the National Garden:
Let kids feed ducks at the turtle pond and run along shaded paths.
Tip: Bring a small bag of birdseed; stay on marked paths and watch for turtles.
Family Photos on the Marble Steps:
Use the wide white steps as a backdrop for group shots.
Tip: Photograph in early morning light to avoid strong shadows and crowds.
How to Make the Most of Your Visit to Monument to the Unknown Soldier
- Combine with Garden Play: Visit the National Garden right after the ceremony for a longer outing.
- Use Metro Exit: Exit Syntagma Metro onto Parliament side to reach the monument in under 2 minutes.
Reviews of Monument to the Unknown Soldier
Emil Noer
The changing of the guard in Athens is a unique experience. The soldiers’ slow, deliberate way of marching and their traditional uniforms make it quite special to watch. Compared to the ceremony in Washington D.C., it feels less emotional and less surrounded by a sense of deep respect. Still, it’s definitely worth seeing when visiting Athens, as it gives a glimpse into Greek tradition and history.
Xhoo 2020
Very nice... we went especially on Sunday 11 am to see full Change of Guards... Worth it if you come early and get right spot. Yes very Hot but its Greece in August.... We enjoyed parade. Thank you
Ufuk Yüksekkaya
At Syntagma Square, right in front of the Parliament building, the hourly Changing of the Guard ceremony is a mesmerizing spectacle. The guards wear traditional uniforms featuring distinctive red shoes and perform slow, precise movements that showcase a rich heritage of discipline and honor. Visitors love witnessing this unique ritual, which combines history, culture, and pageantry. The ceremony o...
Callyce “Cole” Carroll
We had the opportunity to witness the Changing of the Guard, and it was a truly unforgettable experience. The ceremony is rich with history, culture, and deep-rooted tradition. It was incredibly moving to watch the precision and discipline of the soldiers, who continue to uphold this important duty with such honor. I have a great deal of respect for them and feel genuinely grateful to have shared ...
Con Bondo
Must see. Come and pay your respects to this absolutely amazing site. Enriched in history and tradition. Its definitely worth the visit and stay for the changing of the guard of possible. There is no shade so come prepared if in summer. Show respect when on site and listen to the guard if given instructions to move away. It's a MUST SEE in Athens
When is the best time to visit Monument to the Unknown Soldier (Athens, Greece)?
Summer mornings and late afternoons are cooler on the open square. In winter, wrap kids in layers for wind on the hill.
Explore These Activities
Typical Budget for a Family of 4 (2 Adults + 2 Kids)
| Item | Cost (Approx.) |
|---|---|
| Metro tickets (round-trip for 2 adults + 2 kids) | EUR 8 |
| Café snacks | EUR 12 |
| Souvenir | EUR 10 |
| Total Estimated | EUR 30 |
Note: All prices are indicative and may vary. Please check directly with the venue for the most accurate and up-to-date information.
Content Notice: This content combines editorial expertise with AI assistance to ensure comprehensive and up-to-date information. Our team regularly curates and reviews all content for accuracy and relevance. Help Us Improve
Map of Monument to the Unknown Soldier
Address: Leof. Vasilisis Amalias 133, Athina 105 57, Greece
Map will load when you scroll here
Scroll down to view the interactive map
Looking for other Things to Do besides Monument to the Unknown Soldier (Athens)?
About Monument to the Unknown Soldier
Opening Hours
Hours may vary during holidays, special events, and peak seasons. Please check the official website for the most up-to-date information.
10 BEST nearby Activities
Explore Popular Things to Do
🇺🇸 United States, with kids
🇬🇧 United Kingdom, with kids
How You Can Support Us
If our website helps you, please support us by booking your travel needs through this link: Book Flights, Hotels, Activities on Trip.com - New App User Promo up to 10% OFF. We may earn a small affiliate commission - at no extra cost to you!
It's a simple way to help us keep the site running and improving for everyone. Thanks for your support!
10 BEST nearby Activities