The enjoyable climate of Athens in the summer provides the perfect stage for both Athenians and those visiting the Greek capital to soak up on some outdoor culture near the sea or while enjoying stunning views of the city. From rock concerts by world-renowned singers like Alice Cooper and Diana Ross to a star-studded night dedicated to Greek singing icon Vasilis Karras at the emblematic Panathenaic Stadium, here’s where to catch only some of this season’s hottest open-air concerts.
Panathenaic Stadium (Kallimarmaro)
The white-marble stadium hosted the first modern Olympic Games in 1896 and today it is best known as the rousing finishing line of the Athens Classic Marathon. Occasionally, the horseshoe-shaped stadium serves as a stunning backdrop for concerts, mostly fundraisers for humanitarian causes.
On June 13, some of Greece’s most famous singers like Helena Paparizou, Konstantinos Argyros, Antonis Remos and Despina Vandi will be paying tribute to the late Vasilis Karras, one of the country’s most iconic singers, performing some of his biggest hits. The star-studded concert starts at 19.00.
On June 25, thousands will gather at Panathenaic Stadium for a musical tribute to the great Greek composer, Mikis Theodorakis. Outstanding artists, musicians and choirs will perform Theodorakis’ musical masterpieces and loved songs. The concert is part of a series of events during 2025, commemorating 100 years since the birth of the legendary composer. Part of the proceeds will be donated to the ELPIDA Association of Friends for Children with Cancer.
On July 16, Diana Ross, the legendary diva of soul, will be performing for one, exclusive night at Kallimarmaro, under the stars of the Athenian sky. On stage, she will be joined by Greece’s own Helena Paparizou. Ticket prices start from 90 euros ($102). The show begins at 21.00.
Amphitheater of Lycabettus
High above the city, carved into the pine-clad slopes of Lycabettus Hill, this open-air theater reopened in 2024 after a 15-year slumber. A theater with a view, it has hosted some of the biggest names in music -from Mikis Theodorakis to Ray Charles- and it’s one of the most atmospheric places in town to catch a summer show.
On June 14, one of Greece’s most beloved modern singers, Natassa Bofiliou, will be performing at Lycabettus Theater in a concert dedicated to Mikis Theodorakis, called “Inside the Blooming Gardens.” Her strong belief that music and love can create change, bring new ideas and spread joy in people has been proven through hundreds of her sold-out performances in Greece and Europe. The concert begins at 9pm.
On June 21, for the first time ever, Sir Tom Jones will bring his velvet voice and legendary charisma in Athens. If you’ve ever sung along to Delilah, or let loose to Sex Bomb, don’t miss out on this one. Ticket prices range from 65-150 euros ($74-171).
On June 24, Mario Frangoulis, the Greek vocalist known across the world for his refined tenor vocals and charismatic live performances, will be performing alongside Eleftheria Arvanitaki, sharing unique moments with their much-loved melodies and unique chemistry on stage.
Water Square (Platia Nerou)
This concert venue literally translates as “water plaza” and rightfully so, for it is right on the sea and it is where some of the top music festivals are staged. Water Square is also a great starting point for a stroll along the Athens Riviera. It also hosts Release Athens, one of the most important summer music events in Greece.
On June 25, Marina Satti, the Greek singer who has captivated domestic and international audiences with her innovative music, will take to the stage with one of the most ecstatic summer concerts for singing and dancing until the morning hours. Doors open at 18.30.
On July 19, While She Sleeps, the quintet from Sheffield that has evolved into one of the most dynamic bands of the British music scene, will take the stage at Platia Nerou in what is expected to be an unforgettable night for fans of contemporary metal. Ticket prices start at 68 euros ($77).
Terra Vibe Park
This is a stunning, tree-lined 40-acre park a few kilometers outside Athens in Malakassa, used as a venue for concerts and other large-scale outdoor events. For years, it has been hosting the Rockwave Festival, which this year features an electrifying lineup, featuring, among others, the legendary Alice Cooper, godfather of shock rock and the magnetic Floor Jansen on July 11. Ticket prices range from 50-99 euros ($57-113).
For die-hard fans, Rockwave Festival also offers three-day tickets, giving you the chance to not only enjoy Alice Cooper but also the likes of King Diamond and W.A.S.P. at a discounted price.
Technopolis
The Gazi neighborhood in Athens took its name from this former gasworks, now an open-air venue that hosts a mutlitude of events all year round. Annual highlights include the Jazz Festival in May, Retro Festival in June, Coffee Festival in September and regular concerts, craft markets and kids’ activities.
On June 26, the globally beloved rock band The Hooters is coming to Greece for the first time to celebrate 45 years of success and creativity. Since their formation in Philadelphia in the United States in 1980, they have become one of the most iconic bands of the 1980s, combining rock, ska, reggae and even pop music in an innovative way. General admission costs 40 euros ($45).
On July 2, Locomondo, the Greek band that became synonymous with joy and the Greek summer, returns to Technopolis for a night packed with energy, fun and serious groove. Come and sing along “Den Kanei Krio stin Ellada” (It Doesn’t Get Cold in Greece), ride the “Magic Carpet” and dance non-stop to the rythm of reggae and hip-hop. Tickets at the door, 15 euros ($17).
On September 6, Planet of Zeus, the Greek band merging ancient history with the pulsating energy of modern rock will be holding a 25-Year Anniversary show. Tickets at the door, 15 euros ($17).
Odeon of Herodes Atticus (Herodion as it’s known locally), the magnificent marble amphitheater on the slopes of the Acropolis, is the showpiece of the Epidavros Festival and hosts a wide range of events from May to October -from concerts, to operas and ancient drama.
Especially magical in the summer, the Megaron Concert Hall Gardens, planted with trees and flowers that bloom all year round, host jazz trios, Greek folk singers, and classical musicians performing among the carob, acacia, and magnolia trees.
Finally, don’t leave Athens before visiting its biggest modern claim to fame, Stavros Niarchos Foundation Cultural Center. Every June, the week-long Nostos Festival offers a rocking line-up of DJs, bands and performances -and it’s all completely free!
