Experience the Athens Epidaurus Festival: Summer’s big celebration!
Held annually from June to August, the Athens Epidaurus Festival is one of the oldest performing arts festivals in Europe, offering both classical performances, including ancient Greek drama, and cutting-edge, avant-garde productions.
The Festival takes place at four unique venues connecting the past, present, and future: in Athens the awe-inspiring Odeon of Herodes and the former industrial complex of Peiraios 260, and, about two hours away from the capital, the mesmerizing Ancient Theatre of Epidaurus and the Little Theatre of Ancient Epidaurus.
Peiraios 260: The Festival’s alternative, urban version
A typical example of 1970s industrial architecture, this former furniture factory at 260 Peiraios Street is an ideal venue for presenting the Festival’s avant-garde and alternative productions. Emerging and established Greek and international artists attract city residents and visitors alike who spend their evenings enjoying performances, drinks, and even outdoor parties in a strikingly industrial space.
Peiraios Street is rapidly turning into one of the city’s major cultural zones.
English surtitles in all performances
Getting there: Peiraios 260 is 1km away from the Kallithea Metro Station (Green Line), that is 13–15 minutes on foot. If you’re lucky enough, you might also catch a bus, 049 (Omonia-Piraeus) or 914 (Omonia-Lachanagora-Palea Kokkinia), passing by Peiraios 260.
Odeon of Herodes Atticus: A midsummer night’s dream under the Acropolis
Built below the majestic rock of the Acropolis in the 2nd century BC, the Odeon of Herodes Atticus is widely considered one of the most iconic theatres in the world. Since the inception of the Athens Festival in 1955, legendary artists have performed at the Odeon, including Maria Callas, Herbert von Karajan, Igor Stravinsky, Rudolf Nureyev, and Leonard Bernstein, to name but a few.
Music lovers can look forward to spellbinding evenings featuring leading symphony orchestras, operas, and concerts with famous contemporary solo artists and musical groups. After each performance, make sure to have a refreshing stroll at Dionysiou Areopagitou, one of the loveliest pedestrian streets in Athens.
Getting there: By Metro Red Line, Akropoli station, 750 m. from the entrance of the venue, on Dionysiou Areopagitou street, a 10-minute walk.
Ancient Theatre of Epidaurus: A unique theatre experience
Dating back to the 4th century BC, situated amidst the Argolis mountains, the breathtakingly beautiful Ancient Theatre of Epidaurus is celebrated across the globe for its acoustics and aesthetics. Built inside the Asclepeion archaeological site, the theatre has been declared a UNESCO World Heritage site.
Over the years, household names have presented their work here. Can you think of a more thrilling experience than finding yourself at the most perfect ancient Greek theatre?
English surtitles in all performances
Getting there: The Ancient Theatre of Epidaurus is located in Argolis, a half-hour drive from Nafplio (27km) and a little more than two hours from Athens (139km). Buses going from Athens to the venue and back are also available.
Little Theatre of Ancient Epidaurus: Just a little bit more of Epidaurus
True to its name, this small but gorgeous 4th c. BC theatre, originally built as a place of worship for the followers of Dionysus, was rediscovered in 1971 near the port of Ancient Epidaurus.
Visitors pass by a fragrant orange grove on their way to the venue, to enjoy a diverse and alternative programme combining music, theatre and dance.
English surtitles in all performances
Getting there: The Little Theatre of Ancient Epidaurus is located in the picturesque seaside town of Palea Epidavros, 16km away from the Ancient Theatre of Epidaurus, a 40-minute drive from Nafplio (38km). Buses going from Athens to the venue and back, a two-hour drive (126 km), are also available.
