Eugenides Foundation Planetarium Tours

The digital planetarium in Athens was upgraded in 2003 and forms part of the Eugenides Foundation, built at the behest of Greek shipping magnate and philanthropist Eugene Eugenides to educate Greek children on the subject of science. As well as being the world’s largest planetarium — with a dome of 270 sq ft (25 sq m) in diameter — it is also one of the most technologically advanced. With seating for 280, the planetarium offers its audiences spectacular 3D trips into space as well as IMAX and OMNIMAX movies on a 360-degree screen that is 10 times the size of a normal movie screen. Ten different shows take place throughout the day, including documentaries on the Moon landings, the Great Barrier Reef, evolution and exploring the cosmos, with a special program of films for younger children. Films are between 30 and 40 minutes long and show times are liable to change, so check schedules online ahead of visiting.

As well as temporary art exhibitions, the Eugenides Foundation Planetarium also encompasses a café and science museum, where educational and interactive multimedia exhibits showcase genetics and biotechnology; labeling is all in Greek and English.