The Mall Athens
About
The Mall Athens is one of Greece's largest shopping centers, offering families a climate-controlled retreat with over 200 stores, a modern food court, and entertainment options including a cinema and kids' play areas. It's an excellent destination for families who want to combine shopping with child-friendly activities, especially during Athens' hot summer afternoons or rainy days.
Highlights
- ✓Cinema complex showing current releases, often with English-language options
- ✓Dedicated children's play areas for active breaks between shopping
- ✓International and Greek retail brands including toy stores and bookshops
- ✓Modern food court with diverse cuisine options for family meals
- ✓Air-conditioned comfort perfect for escaping Athens' summer heat
Pro Tips
- 1.Visit on weekday mornings right after opening for the quietest shopping experience and easiest parking access
- 2.The food court on the upper level offers diverse options including familiar international chains like McDonald's alongside Greek eateries, perfect for picky eaters
- 3.Free Wi-Fi is available throughout the mall, helpful for keeping older kids entertained and checking maps
- 4.The mall is connected to the Olympic Athletic Center metro station (line 1), making it easily accessible without a car
- 5.Bring layers as air conditioning can be strong in summer, creating a significant temperature difference from outside
Best Time to Visit
Weekday mornings (10:00 AM-12:00 PM) are ideal for avoiding crowds. Summer afternoons are popular with locals escaping the heat. Avoid Saturday afternoons when the mall is busiest with weekend shoppers.
What to Know
Entry and browsing are free, with individual purchases at your discretion. The mall offers ample underground parking (paid), clean restroom facilities with changing tables, and elevators throughout. Most staff speak English, and many international brands will be familiar to foreign visitors.
Seasonal Notes
Open year-round with extended hours during Christmas shopping season (late November through early January). Particularly valuable during July and August when outdoor sightseeing can be too hot for young children. Note that it's closed on Sundays.
Nearby Eats
The in-mall food court offers extensive options, but nearby Golden Hall (another mall) and the Marousi area feature various tavernas and restaurants within a short drive if you prefer traditional Greek dining.
More Activities Near Marousi
Taverna Psaropoulos
Taverna Psaropoulos is a welcoming traditional Greek taverna in Marousi that embraces families with open arms. The outdoor courtyard provides a relaxed atmosphere where kids can move around freely, while the availability of children's portions means little ones can enjoy authentic Greek cuisine scaled to their appetites without parents paying for uneaten food.
Gelateria Artigianale Maroussi
This charming artisanal gelato shop in Marousi's town center is a perfect pit stop for families exploring Athens' northern suburbs. Kids will love choosing from a rainbow of homemade flavors made with natural ingredients, while parents appreciate the quality and affordable prices. It's an ideal reward after a morning of sightseeing or a sweet afternoon treat during your Greek adventure.
Pithario Cafe
Pithario Cafe is a welcoming neighborhood spot in the Athens suburb of Marousi that genuinely caters to families traveling with children. With a dedicated children's menu, pleasant outdoor seating, and a relaxed atmosphere where kids are truly welcome, it offers visiting families a comfortable break from sightseeing with authentic Greek cafe culture without the stress of keeping little ones quiet.
Maroussi Swimming Pool Complex
The Maroussi Swimming Pool Complex offers families a refreshing escape with world-class Olympic-sized pools alongside dedicated children's areas. Located in the Athens suburb of Marousi, this public facility provides excellent swim programs during summer months, making it perfect for both serious young swimmers and families seeking a fun day splashing around.