Athens woke up to the sound of spinning wheels and cheering crowds on Sunday, as the city hosted the 29th Athens Cycling Tour — a celebration of movement, energy, and community spirit that went ahead despite the grey skies and steady drizzle.
The 16-kilometre route set off at 9:30 a.m. from the lower side of Syntagma Square, while the shorter 7-kilometre family ride began at 11:00 a.m. in front of the Tomb of the Unknown Soldier.
“With every pedal stroke, we show that Athens can change pace,” said Mayor of Athens Haris Doukas. “The Cycling Tour begins from Syntagma and follows an exciting route through the city centre, where cars give way to bicycles. This is the image we want to see more often — a city that moves with respect and safety. Building a cycling culture takes time, consistency, and participation from all of us.”
Throughout the morning, Kiss FM broadcast live from Syntagma Square, capturing the upbeat mood. The Athens Philharmonic Orchestra and the Batala Atenas percussion group kicked off the festivities, while Jetlag The Band will close the event with a live performance later in the afternoon.
Activities promoting cycling and sustainable transport continue across the city until 3:00 p.m., inviting Athenians of all ages to take part.
Road Closures and Traffic Restrictions
Extensive traffic measures are currently in place throughout central Athens for the event. Drivers should expect temporary road closures and parking bans from early morning until early afternoon.
Key affected areas include:
- Stadiou, Filellinon, Vasilissis Amalias, Vasilissis Olgas, and Syngrou Avenue
- Parts of Ermou, Mitropoleos, Athinas, Panepistimiou, Patision, and Alexandras Avenue
- Central squares such as Syntagma, Omonia, and Vathi
Vehicle crossings will not be permitted along the cycling route until the event concludes, except at the controlled intersections of Vasilissis Sofias–Rigillis and Vasilissis Sofias–Irodou Attikou.
