Tatoi sits in the foothills of Mount Parnitha, about 25 km north of central Athens. The estate covers roughly 100 hectares of forest, gardens, and royal buildings. King George I purchased the land in 1871 as a country retreat, and successive monarchs used it until the monarchy was abolished by referendum in 1974. Since then, the palace has been mostly closed and slowly deteriorating, though restoration efforts have begun.

The grounds are open to the public and offer a peaceful escape from the city -- old-growth forest, flowing streams, and the melancholy atmosphere of a grand estate returning to the wild.

What to See

The Palace and Estate Buildings

The main palace is a relatively modest neoclassical building -- not the grand palace you might expect. The Greek royals lived comparatively simply at Tatoi compared to other European monarchies. Several outbuildings dot the estate: staff quarters, stables, a winery, and farm buildings.

The palace itself is currently closed to the public (interior access is restricted pending restoration). You can walk around the outside and view the buildings from the grounds. Some outbuildings are visible along the main paths.

The deterioration adds to the atmosphere. Peeling walls, overgrown gardens, broken windows -- it's hauntingly photogenic, somewhere between grandeur and decay.

The Royal Cemetery

The burial ground of the Greek royal family, set in a clearing among pine trees. Several members of the royal house are buried here, including King Paul I and Queen Frederica. The cemetery is simple and dignified, with white marble tombs surrounded by forest.

The Grounds and Forest

The real draw for most visitors. Well-maintained paths wind through dense pine and fir forest, along streams, and past old estate infrastructure (walls, bridges, water features). The altitude (300-500m) means it's noticeably cooler than central Athens, with a fresh, forested feel.

The main walking loop takes about 1-1.5 hours and passes through the estate's core: gardens, cemetery, farm buildings, and forest. Signposted and easy to follow.

Extended walks lead higher into the Mount Parnitha foothills, connecting to the broader Parnitha trail network. These are less maintained and require decent footwear.

The Flora and Fauna

Tatoi's forest is old-growth in many sections, with mature pines, firs, and broadleaf trees. The streams support lush vegetation -- ferns, wild cyclamen, and seasonal wildflowers. In spring, the forest floor is carpeted with colour.

Birdlife is good -- woodpeckers, jays, and raptors are common. The relative quiet and lack of development means wildlife is more visible than in the surrounding suburbs.

Getting There

By Car (30-35 minutes)

Drive north on Kifissias Avenue towards Varibobi, then follow signs to Tatoi. Free parking at the estate entrance. The approach road passes through suburban Athens before reaching the forested foothills.

By Bus

Bus 506 from Kifissia (Metro Line 1/Green Line terminus) runs towards Varibobi. From the bus stop, it's about a 20-minute walk to the estate entrance. Not the most convenient -- a car or taxi is easier.

By Taxi

About 25-30 EUR from central Athens. Ask the driver to pick you up later or keep the number for a return call.

Practical Tips

  • The estate is open but the palace interior is closed. Don't come expecting to tour grand rooms -- it's the grounds, forest, and atmosphere that are the attraction.
  • Wear walking shoes. The main paths are good but some sections are uneven, especially the extended forest walks.
  • Bring water and a snack. There are no facilities (cafe, shop, toilet) at the estate. The nearest amenities are in Varibobi.
  • Best visited in the morning. The forest is at its most peaceful, and the light through the trees is beautiful. By afternoon, more visitors arrive.
  • Photography is rewarding. The decaying buildings, forest paths, and dappled light make for atmospheric shots.
  • Combine with Parnitha. Tatoi is at the foot of Mount Parnitha. You could walk the estate in the morning and drive up to the Bafi Refuge for lunch and a longer hike in the afternoon.
  • Restoration is ongoing. Plans to restore the palace and open it as a museum have been discussed for years. Check for updates before visiting -- the situation may change.
  • Dogs are welcome on the paths (on lead). It's a popular spot for dog walkers from the northern suburbs.

Who Should Visit?

Tatoi is a niche interest. It appeals to:

  • History enthusiasts interested in modern Greek history and the monarchy
  • Photographers drawn to abandoned/decaying architecture
  • Nature walkers who want an easy, shaded walk near Athens
  • Parents with young children who need a gentle, stroller-friendly walk in nature
  • Anyone escaping the heat -- the forest is genuinely 5-10C cooler than downtown Athens

If you want dramatic ruins or archaeological significance, go elsewhere. If you want a peaceful forest walk with an unusual backstory, Tatoi delivers.

Best Time to Visit

Spring -- Wildflowers, streams flowing, green forest. The best season.

Autumn -- Deciduous trees add colour. Cool, pleasant walking weather.

Summer -- The forest provides welcome shade and cooler temperatures. A good escape from Athens' heat.

Winter -- Quiet and atmospheric. The bare trees reveal more of the estate structures. Can be muddy after rain.

Tatoi is 25 km north of Athens, about 30-35 minutes by car. The estate walk takes 1-2 hours. The palace interior is currently closed.