The National Gardens, alongside the Parliament, were once a private space for the use of the royal family. Now, they are open to the public from sunrise to sunset, providing a refuge from the bustle of the city. The gardens are well cared for, with neat paths, orange trees and plenty of flowers, but enough of the area is left in a natural state so visitors can feel that they are in the countryside. Wander through the gardens, past the 19th-century Zappeion Hall, which is now an exhibition centre, before leaving the gardens on the north side.