Syntagma Square & Changing of the Guards - HOHO Bus Stop Guide

Syntagma Square (Constitution Square) is the political and transport heart of modern Athens. It is a central hub for all Hop-On Hop-Off lines and the stage for one of Athens' most famous traditions: the Changing of the Guards.

The Evzones

The Presidential Guards, or Evzones, are elite soldiers famous for their unique uniform, which is full of symbolism:

• Foustanella: A kilt-like skirt with 400 pleats (symbolizing 400 years of Ottoman occupation).
• Tsarouchia: Red clogs with black pom-poms (which historically concealed blades for battle).
• Ferme: The distinct red cap with a long silk tassel.

They stand perfectly still in front of the Tomb of the Unknown Soldier below the Parliament building.

The Ceremony

• Hourly Change: Every hour on the hour, 24/7, the guards change shifts. The choreography is slow, highly stylized, and mesmerizing to watch.
• Sunday Grand Change: On Sundays at 11:00 AM, the full ceremonial change takes place. A marching band leads a large platoon of Evzones down the avenue.
  • Tip: It gets very crowded. Arrive by 10:30 AM to get a good viewing spot near the stairs.

The HOHO Stop

The bus stop is usually right on the square or Amalias Avenue. From here, you are perfectly positioned:

1. Watch the Guards: Walk up the stairs to the Parliament forecourt.
2. Ermou Street: The main high-street shopping pedestrian road begins here (Zara, H&M, Nike, etc.).
3. National Garden: Located right next to the Parliament. It's a tropical oasis in the city center with duck ponds, turtle pools, and shaded benches. A perfect place to cool down while waiting for the next bus.

Metro Station Museum

Don't miss a quick peek inside the Syntagma Metro Station. During its construction, many ancient artifacts (aqueducts, walls, graves) were found. They are now displayed inside the station walls behind glass—a free mini-museum that thousands of commuters pass every day!

Practical Tip

Syntagma is often a "terminal" or starting point for the bus loops. If you want to grab a front-row seat on the top deck, boarding here is a smart move as many passengers disembark to shop or trek to Plaka.