Zappeion and environs: The National Gardens

  
The National Gardens

The National Gardens, open from dawn to dusk, is an oasis in the city, with rare flowers, plants and rich greenery from all over the world. It is behind  the Parliament and opposite the residence of the President of Greece. On the other side of the park, is the Zappeion Megaron.Designed to be the gardens of the Royal Palace of King Otto and Queen Amalia, it was planted between 1838 and 1860.

You can enter the gardens from one of four gates: the central one, on Vasilissis Sophias Avenue, another on Herodou Atticou Street and the third on Amalias Avenue. The fourth gate connects the National Garden with the Zappeion park area. In the National Garden you will find: a duck pond, a small zoo, a Botanical Museum, a small cafe, and a Children's Library and playground.