The Best Outdoor Cinemas in Athens for a Summer You’ll Never Forget
There’s something unmistakably Athenian about watching a film outside on a warm summer night. The clink of ice in your drink, the smell of buttery popcorn, the flicker of a screen under the stars. And, in some cases, the glowing Acropolis in the background. The outdoor cinema tradition in Greece dates back to the early 1900s, and in Athens, it’s become an unmissable summer ritual. If you're planning a trip to Greece, here's where to find the best outdoor cinemas in Athens.
Cine Thision – The Acropolis Classic
Cine Thision
Apostolou Pavlou 7, Thissio
One of the most iconic open air cinemas in Athens, Cine Thision offers a front-row seat to the illuminated Acropolis. Since 1935, it’s been drawing locals and travellers alike with its old-world charm and unforgettable views.
Why go: It’s the full package – history, romance, and a killer backdrop.
Order: Sour cherry cordial and salted popcorn.
Cine Paris – The Prettiest Rooftop
Cine Paris
Kidathineon 22, Plaka
With rooftop views over Plaka and the Parthenon beyond, Cine Paris is made for golden hour. Reopened in 2024, it mixes nostalgia with smart programming and a film-poster shop that’s hard to resist.
Why go: For the view and the atmosphere.
Order: A glass of red and a cheese pie.
Dexameni – The Local Favourite
Dexameni Square, Kolonaki
Tucked above Kolonaki, Dexameni cinema has an island feel and a loyal following. After the movie, head to the nearby cafés for ouzo and late-night snacks.
Why go: Local crowd, leafy setting, two-for-one Wednesdays.
Order: Toasted sandwich and a Fix beer.
Aigli Zappeiou – The Historic One
Aigli Zappeiou
Zappeion Gardens, Syntagma
The oldest outdoor cinema in Athens, Aigli opened in 1910. After a 2024 renovation, it’s more beautiful than ever with top-notch sound and cocktails crafted by some of the city’s best mixologists.
Why go: Garden breeze, classy vibe, and film festivals.
Order: Deep-dish pizza and a bottled cocktail.
Riviera – The Cult Favourite
Riviera
Valtetsiou 46, Exarchia
Cine Riviera serves indie films and cult classics with a side of Exarchia energy. It’s buzzy, late-night, and very Athenian.
Why go: Great programming and great post-cinema bars.
Order: Beer and anything salty.
Vox – The Arthouse Rebel
82 Themistokleous, Exarchia
Looking out over Exarchia square, Vox plays arthouse films and attracts an eclectic crowd. Gritty, charming, and one of a kind.
Why go: People-watching, politics, and popcorn.
Order: Whatever the regulars are having.
Zefyros – The Bohemian One
Troon 36, Petralona
Retro, moody, and full of character, Zefyros screens old classics, documentaries, and independent films. Expect cats, cobblestones, and conversation. Why go: Pure old-Athens charm.
Order: Loukoumades after the show.
Cine Flisvos – By the Sea
Flisvos Marina, Palio Faliro
A 500-seat cinema by the sea, Flisvos is ideal for families and sunset-lovers. It’s breezy, laid-back, and an easy tram ride from the centre.
Why go: Ocean air and open skies.
Order: Pork souvlaki and loukoumades with ice cream.
Boboniera – The Leafy Escape
Papadiamanti 12, Kifissia
North of the city, Boboniera is a peaceful escape with a fascinating past. It’s been rebuilt after two fires and now features crystal-clear sound and a shady courtyard.
Why go: Cool air and quieter crowds.
Order: Pizza and a soft drink.
Bonus: Island Cinemas That Are Worth the Ferry Ride
Outdoor cinemas aren’t just an Athens thing-they’re woven into summer all over the Greek islands. If your trip takes you beyond the capital, keep an eye out for these island gems:
Cine Kalisperitis – Kimolos
Cinema doesn’t get more remote or romantic than this. Located right on the edge of the sea in Kimolos, Cine Kalisperitis is as grassroots as it gets-set up under the stars with the waves as your soundtrack. It’s run by the volunteer group Kimolistes and screenings are free, often accompanied by handmade signs and a bring-your-own-everything philosophy.
Why go: There’s no screen, no structure, no snack bar-just a community, a projector, and the sea. It’s pure Cycladic magic.
Order: Nothing to order here-just bring a picnic, a beach towel, and someone you like.
Cine Enastron – Milos
Built in the courtyard of an old school in Plaka, Cine Enastron has gone viral for its dreamy setup-fairy lights, hand-painted signs, and a glowing screen framed by dry-stone walls. It’s entirely volunteer-run, with donations keeping the project alive. It doesn’t get more wholesome than this.
Why go: You’ll be sitting among locals and summer visitors, sipping something cold and soaking up the quiet hum of a Milos night.
Order: Stop in Plaka beforehand for a souvlaki and a beer to go.
Even away from the city, the magic of summer cinema lives on in the islands. And honestly? There’s nothing quite like it.
What to Know Before You Go
Most cinemas open from May to September
Screenings start after sunset, around 9pm and again at 11pm
Tickets are usually sold at the door
Foreign films are subtitled, not dubbed
Smoking is often allowed
Bring mosquito spray
Outdoor Cinema in Athens Isn’t Just a Movie—It’s a Memory
You won’t remember every film you see, but you’ll remember the breeze, the buzz, and the blue-lit Acropolis above the screen. Watching a movie outdoors in Athens is less about what’s playing and more about where you are, and who you’re with. It’s Greek summer magic—on screen, and all around you.
