Local Information

Athens info

Athens is the capital of Greece and one of the world’s oldest cities, with a history spanning over 3,000 years. It is widely considered the cradle of Western civilization and the birthplace of democracy. Today, Athens is a modern and lively European city, known for its rich archaeological heritage, vibrant cultural life, and dynamic food and coffee scene.

Some of the city's most iconic landmarks include the Acropolis and the Parthenon, the Ancient Agora, the National Archaeological Museum, and the picturesque neighborhoods of Plaka and Monastiraki. Visitors can also enjoy a walk up Lycabettus Hill for panoramic views over the city, or take a short trip to the Athens Riviera and its beaches.

From the iconic Acropolis and Parthenon to the picturesque streets of Plaka and the crowded markets of Monastiraki, the city offers countless opportunities to experience history, gastronomy, and local life. For a panoramic view of the city, a walk or taxi car ride up Lycabettus Hill is a must. You can also relax by the Athens Riviera, a stretch of coast just a short ride from the center.

For more ideas and planning resources, see the official visitor guide:
🌐 This is Athens – Official Travel Guide

The city offers a wide range of accommodation, dining, and entertainment options. Public transport is reliable and affordable, with metro, bus, tram, and suburban railway services.

Must-see sites include:

  • ● The Acropolis and Parthenon– A UNESCO World Heritage Site and the symbol of classical Greece.
  • ● The Acropolis Museum – A world-class museum located at the foot of the Acropolis.
  • ● The National Archaeological Museum – Home to some of the most important artifacts of ancient Greek civilization.
  • ● The Ancient Agora – The heart of public life in ancient Athens.
  • ● Plaka and Monastiraki – Historic neighborhoods full of charm, local shops, and restaurants.
  • ● Lycabettus Hill – Offers panoramic views over Athens and the Saronic Gulf.

Getting to Athens
Athens International Airport (Eleftherios Venizelos) is located about 30 km from the city center and is well connected to major European and international destinations. It is easily accessible by:

  • ● Metro (Line 3 – Blue Line): Direct connection to the city center (approx. 40 minutes).
  • ● Suburban Railway (Proastiakos): Links the airport to central stations such as Athens Railway Station (Stathmos Larisis).
  • ● Express buses: 24-hour service to central locations (e.g., X95 to Syntagma Square).
  • ● Taxis: Available at the arrivals level (flat fare to the city center).

For the Venue

The upcoming international AIMS conference will be held in Athens, Greece, hosted by the National and Kapodistrian University of Athens (NKUA). The conference venue will be at the University’s main campus, located in Panepistimioupoli Zografou, specifically at the School of Philosophy.

The Zografou Campus is situated in a quiet and green area of Athens, offering a well-equipped and academically inspiring environment. The conference venue, the School of Philosophy provides lecture halls and facilities suitable for the conference's academic activities. It is housed in a 10-story building, characterized by its unique architectural design and central atrium that provides natural light and a welcoming atmosphere for both attendees and speakers.

The venue is easily accessible by public transportation and is conveniently located near the city center, offering participants the opportunity to explore the rich historical and cultural heritage of Athens.

📍 Conference Location on Map:
School of Philosophy – Google Maps

📘 Interactive NKUA Campus Map:
https://maps.uoa.gr

The venue is easily accessible by public transportation, including buses and the metro. 

Getting There

🚇 By Metro

The closest metro station is "Evangelismos" on the Blue Line (Line 3), which connects directly to the Athens International Airport. From there:

  • ● Take bus 250 (direction: "Panepistimioupoli") directly to the university campus.
  • ● Alternatively, you can use a taxi or ride-hailing app (approx. 10 minutes from Evangelismos).

🚌 By Bus

Several bus lines serve the university area:

  • ● Bus 250 – connects Evangelismos metro station with Panepistimioupoli, entering the campus directly.
  • ● Bus 220 or 221 – stops at the main gate of Panepistimioupoli (walk required to reach Philosophy).
  • ● Bus 608 – passes through central Athens and stops at Ilisia, a short walk to the campus.

💡 All buses require a valid transport ticket (Ath.ena card or paper ticket), which can be purchased at metro stations and kiosks.

🚕 By Taxi

Taxis are widely available in Athens and relatively affordable. A ride from central Athens to the Zografou Campus typically costs around  €7–10, depending on traffic.
For convenience and safety, you may also use ride-hailing apps such as Beat or Uber and several other taxi companies (available with licensed taxis in Greece).

✈️ From Athens International Airport (ATH)

  • ● Take Metro Line 3 from the airport to Evangelismos Station, then continue by Bus 250 or taxi.
  • ● Total travel time: approx. 50–60 minutes.