Free Athens | Summer 2024

ATHENS

ATHENIAN PALETTE

EDITOR’S NOTE

Athens can feel like a witch. It can be harsh, and just when you think of leaving, it pulls you back by the sleeve. It offers new romances, new adventures, and new opportunities. It’s magnetic. The more you resist, the more it finds ways to bewitch you.

Athens is a rough, honest, diverse, and extraordinary city. It’s fun and chaotic, full of ancient beauty, yet modern, innovative, and ever-changing. It’s got something for everyone. But like every large metropolitan city, it can be hard to navigate if you don’t know where to look.

Let us guide you through the Athenian chaos, its history, and all its secret and not-so-secret corners. This guide is a companion not only for those who came for a short stay but also for those who have fallen in love with Athens and plan to stay for a while longer. Because when it comes to Athens, you either fall in love with it or you leave. There is no middle ground.

So, with no further ado, to Athens, we surrender...

STERGIANA TZEGKA

FREE ATHENS

Idea & Coordination: Chrysanthos Xanthis Myrto Steliou

Editing:

Stergiana Tzegka Ilektra Tzortsou Anta Kougia

Graphics: Myrto Steliou Iro Pitsikali

Marketing & sales: Nikoleta Vikou Marianna Papageorgiou Christina Aggelakopoulou Spiros Apostolopoulos

Photography: Thanasis Karanikas

LOGOTYPO PUBLICATIONS

19 Thiras St. Athens - 11257 t. +30 210 82 29 040 www.ipolizei.gr info@ipolizei.gr freeathens21@gmail.com

ISSN: 2945-2112

Nestled in the heart of Athens, just a mere 50 meters from the Panormou metro station, Deos offers an unparalleled rooftop dining experience on the 24th floor. This enchanting all day bar and restaurant provides breathtaking panoramic views of the city, making it the perfect destination for locals and tourists alike who seek to indulge in both culinary excellence and scenic beauty.

Discover Deos � Athenian Skyline: The highlight of Rooftop Dining in Athens

AS YOU STEP INTO DEOS, you are immediately captivated by the stunning vistas that stretch across Athens. From the iconic Lycabettus hill, standing majestically in the distance, to the vibrant cityscape that sprawls below, every corner of this rooftop haven offers a visual feast. The ambiance is sophisticated yet relaxed, with a stylish decor that perfectly complements the awe-inspiring backdrop. Whether you visit during the day or the night, the atmosphere is always inviting, making it an ideal spot for any occasion.

THE CULINARY OFFERINGS AT DEOS are as impressive as the views. Under the masterful direction of chef Konstantinos Akouros and chef Aristos Yiannis, the menu features an exquisite array of Mediterranean dishes that showcase the freshest local ingredients and bold flavours. Both chefs bring a wealth of experience and a crea tive flair to the kitchen, ensuring that every dish is a culinary masterpiece.

BRUNCH AT DEOS is a delightful affair, featuring a range of delectable options to start your day. From classic Greek yogurt topped with honey and walnuts to savoury egg dishes and freshly baked pastries, the brunch menu is designed to satisfy every palate. Pair your meal with a refreshing mimosa or a cup of expertly brewed coffee as you soak in the morning sun and the stunning city views.

AS THE DAY PROGRESSES, THE LUNCH AND DINNER MENUS continue to impress with an array of Mediterranean delights. Savour dishes such as fig risotto, lambkin, and vibrant sea urchin pasta. Each plate is thoughtfully crafted, highlighting the rich culinary heritage of the Mediterranean region. Complement your meal with a selection from the extensive wine list, featuring both local Greek wines and international favorites.

DEOS IS MORE THAN JUST A DINING DESTINATION; it is an experience that engages all the senses. The combination of chef’s culinary artistry, the impeccable service, and the unparalleled views from the 24th floor, along with the luxurious pool area, make this rooftop bar and restaurant a must-visit location in Athens. Whether you are looking for a romantic dinner, a leisurely brunch, or a stylish spot to unwind with friends, Deos promises an unforgettable experience that will leave you yearning for your next visit.

64 Louizis Riankour St., Athina | Apollon Tower | Τ.: +30 2160045685

Fb: Deos | Ig: deosathens

100m / PANORMOU METRO LINE 3

INDEX

Editor’s note | p. 3

And another editor’s note | p. 8

Flavors of Greece | p. 12, 14

Journey through Athens | p. 16, 18

Historic homes of Athens | p. 20

Famous writers about the Acropolis & Parthenon | p. 22

Dimitris Pikionis’s legacy | p. 24

Signs of the German occupation in Athens (World War II) | p. 26

Bizarre museums of Athens | p. 28

Urban strolls | p. 30, 32

Summer Greek movies | p. 36

Athenian Palette | p. 40

Antefix zone | p. 42

Busy Syntagma | p. 44

Elegant Kolonaki | p. 46

Contradictive Koukaki | p. 48

Everlasting Plaka | p. 50

Vibrant Monastiraki | p. 52

Dreamy Thissio | p. 54

Extroverted Psiri | p. 56

Antefix’s commercial map | p. 58

Stergiana Tzegka says | p. 60

Famous & unknown | p. 62

Outdoor markets in Athens | p. 64

Parks & peaks | p. 66

Fun facts about the Acropolis | p. 70

Let the sunshine in | p. 72

Historic dining and drinking spots in Athens | p. 74

The National Observatory of Athens | p. 76

Open-air cinemas define Athens | p. 82

Sky zone | p. 84

Hip Kipseli | p. 86

Spirited Omonia | p. 88

FREE ATHENS

Unforgettable Kerameikos | p. 90

Timeless Pagrati | p. 92

Rebelious Exarchia | p. 94

Historic Petralona | p. 96

Straight-forward Patisia | p. 98

Sky’s commercial map | p. 100

3 legendary spots in Patission | p. 102

Holy side of the city | p. 104

Sculptures in the city | p. 106

Did you know that… | p. 110

Parks and the people | p. 112

The ancient cemetery of Kerameikos | p. 114

Green oasis in the cityscape | p. 116

Athens’ rich legacy of open-air theaters | p. 118

Athenian scenes coming alive on canvas | p. 120

3 Athenian stadiums | p. 122

Athens wasn’t always like this | p. 124

Athens from above | p. 126

Sun zone | p. 128

Brave Kesariani | p. 130

Gentle Nea Philadelphia | p. 132

Striking Kallithea | p. 134

Pine-covered Kifissia | p. 136

Salty Piraeus | p. 138

West side Peristeri | p. 140

Sun’s commercial map | p. 142

The verdant oasis of Athens | p. 144

Aether zone | p. 146

Coastal gems | p. 148

The temple of Peseidon | p. 150

Shopping hopping | p. 152, 154, 156, 158, 160

Useful numbers & links | p. 162

FEATURED

Gogo tours | p. 2

Deos athenian skyline | p. 4-5

Little miss grumpy | p. 9

Theatre of the No | p. 10-11

Pistachio Land | p. 13

Anastasiou Brewery | p.15

Almos travel | p. 17

iXchange | p. 17

Historical Archive of National Bank of Greece | p. 19

Museum of Modern Greek Culture | p. 21

Maria Callas Museum | p. 23

Hellenic Motor Museum | p. 25

Museum of Ancient Greek Technology Kostas Kotsanas | p. 27

Emotions Museum | p. 28

Polyglot | p. 29

IANOS Bookstore | p. 29

DOT.AH!ART | p. 31

Awesome Athens Experiences | p.31

Athens wine tasting | p. 32

Soybird | p. 33

Segway tours | p. 34-35

Woody city garden | p. 36

Trianon cinema | p. 37

Kalliope handmade jewelry | p. 38

Ippopotamos bar | p. 60

Kiki de Grèce | p. 61

Rude Lord | p. 61

Chico Athens | p. 63

ĒRE ATHENS | p. 63

Ubuntu | p. 63

Ermou Spirits Cava Pittaras | p. 64

Ariston | p. 65

Kountouriotiko | p. 65

Buena Vista Social Bar | p. 67

Favorita | p. 67

Kuzina | p. 68

Glug Glug | p. 69

AÇAÍ VERÃO | p. 69

Acropolis tavern | p. 70

Aioliki odos | p. 71

Trikyklo | p. 71

Klimataria | p. 72

Mahairitsa | p. 73

Dia tafta | p. 73

Koukouvaya | p. 74

Los tacos | p. 75

Tapfield | p. 75

Ateno cook & deli | p. 75

Seawolf | p. 77

Kalispera | p. 77

Bartesera | p. 78-79

En aithria | p. 80

Kiouzin | p. 81

The new era | p. 81

Discompala | p. 83

Agios | p. 83

Gia des | p. 102

Magemenos avlos | p. 103

To avgo tou kokkora | p. 103

Krouskas restaurant | p. 105

Nostimies tis Mairis | p. 105

Parrot bar | p. 106

Intriga | p. 106

LOT 51 | p. 107

Morning Sweetie | p. 107

Aerostato café | p. 107

Kyveli | p. 108

Terra fresh | p. 109

Viejo café bistro | p. 110

Mekourasan | p. 111

Maraboo | p. 111

Asterisque* | p. 111

White turtle | p. 113

Plateia | p. 114

Trata | p. 115

Martinis | p. 115

Arbaroriza | p. 117

Kypselaki | p. 118

EM café | p. 119

Alampeis | p. 119

Petek patisserie | p. 119

Astari | p. 121

Ta kanaria | p. 121

Delicious souvlaki | p. 123

Achilleas Vergina | p. 123

Alexander the Great | p. 125

Rozalia | p. 125

Sousou | p. 127

Café Montreal | p. 127

Di lien | p. 127

Bolivar beach bar | p. 149

Dragonera | p. 150

Thymari con gusto | p. 151

Volcano | p. 153

Like yesterday’s | p. 155

Contrust designers’ collective | p. 155

Mimis optics est. 1962 | p. 155

Bio rewild | p. 157

Le petit magique | p. 157

Artelio | p. 159

Kinitro | p. 159

Atelier des curiosités Fanourakis Elena | p. 159

Surfrituals | p. 161

Kartousa | p. 161

Homed Medical clinic p. | 163

The lockers | Back cover

AND ANOTHER EDITOR’S NOTE

Don’t believe everything you hear!

Greece is more than just the folklore stories you’ve heard. It’s not all about syrtaki, tzatziki, white houses, and Zorba the Greek. If you’ve been here for a while, you’ve probably noticed that. In a world with too many tourists, we ask you to dare to be a traveler, dare to be an explorer, to forget the predictable itineraries and cliche selfies—being a traveler means surprises, diving into the culture, and collecting stories, not souvenirs.

Explore the lively chaos of the local markets, admire the hidden -and not so hidden- graffiti, walk the parks, find quirky bars with unique decorations that aren’t in travel brochures, connect with locals (Greeks are usually friendly, and most of the time, our English is not that bad, although language is no barrier when there’s a will for connection). Enjoy the tasty street food, dance at spontaneous concerts, and wander through its unpredictability with curiosity. It’s all about appreciating the imperfections!

So, leave the guidebook behind and enjoy a new opportunity to broaden your view of the world. Don’t just tour Athens; live it, breathe it, and collect memories that will be unforgettable.

STERGIANA TZEGKA

READ OUR PREVIOUS ISSUES HERE

THE CUTEST GRUMPY

LITTLE MISS GRUMPY

Little Miss Grumpy, also known as Maria Pagkalou, is a Greek illustrator with an acting degree instead of a visual art one. She holds a deep affection for all forms of art, animals, food, and her sister Antonia. Maria draws inspiration from people and their stories, and her artistic home is nestled in Exarchia, Athens. Within a charming store located in a typical Athenian neoclassical house, visitors will discover a diverse range of products, perhaps more than they expect! The store features Maria’s creations, special offers and creations by fellow Greek artists. Beyond shopping, guests can experience a family-run business and atmosphere and engage in friendly conversations about art, life, or even share delicious recipes.

info: 40 Ippokratous St., Exarchia T.: +30 213 0475430 www.littlemissgrumpy.com Ig: littlemiss.grumpy

THEATRE OF THE NO

The Theatre of the NO, Athens’ pioneering English-language theatre, opened on April 18, 2024, with Samuel Beckett’s “Waiting For Godot.” Dedicated to diversity and creativity, the theatre showcases original works from global writers, fostering connections among artists and audiences.

Exploring Theatrical Diversity

Focusing on Modernist, Absurdist, and Experimental Theatre, the repertoire offers fresh takes on seminal works. Beyond theatre, programming includes musical performances, poetry readings, and avant-garde art. Opera and Innovation

In 2024, Theatre of the NO will present two operas, with three new operas slated for 2025, highlighting emerging composers and introducing young audiences to opera.

Transformative Power of Art

Theatre of the NO believes in the transformative power of art, supporting artists and celebrating their cultural contributions. Join them in a journey of artistic exploration in the heart of Athens.

FOCUS GROUP & RESISTANCE IN A TIME OF PEACE

«Focus Group» is controversial, timely, and provocative drama that explores the modern relationship between businesses and consumers. A blend of dark humor, deep analysis, and psychological drama. «Resistance in a time of peace» is a powerful monologue about how difficult it is to resist decisions that align with the expected course of events.

Info:

Directed by Chara Lianou 9th August – 16th September

Every Friday, Saturday, Sunday, Monday at 20.00

PROMETHEUS BOUND

Αn opera following Prometheus, symbolizing independence and enlightenment. Infused with romanticism, it explores the timeless myth of Prometheus, highlighting humanity’s dilemma of rebelling against tyranny and the consequences of passive attitudes.

Info:

Composed by Panagiotis Karousos 12th June – 24th July

Every Wednesday: 20.00

VENUS IN FUR

In Thomas Novachek’s office, auditions for “Venus in Fur” become a play within a play. The audience navigates between reality and acting as Thomas reluctantly auditions Vanda Jordan, blurring the lines between what is real and acted.

Info:

Written by David Ives

Directed by: Racha Gabriel 28th June – 5th August

Every Friday, Saturday, Sunday, Monday at 20.00

ENGLISH LANGUAGE

GYPSY JAZZ TRIO

Talented guitarist Konstantinos Mitropoulos leads a trio honoring Django Reinhardt and the Gypsy jazz tradition. Rediscover the timeless jazz melodies of the 30s and 40s, performed by master musicians passionate about preserving this unique genre.

BLUES CARGO

Info: KONSTANTINOS MITROPOULOS

Every Thursday at 22.00

BRINGS A GLOBAL THEATRICAL EXPERIENCE TO ATHENS

LANGUAGE THEATRE

BLUES CARGO, the most authentic Chicago Blues Band in Greece, presents a night of ChicagoFunky-Soul-Blues classics and originals from their albums “Delayed Delivery” and “On Time,” praised by “BLUES REVIEW” and “BLUESBLAST MAGAZINE.” With 37 years of history, they’ve shared the stage with blues legends worldwide.

Info:

Every Friday from 5th July at 22.15

BACHELORS AND BACHELORETTES

“I don’t love her. In two months, we are getting married. That’s how it is.” In “Bachelors and Bachelorettes,” couples break up as quickly as they form, questioning the role of love, fear, and ego in relationships.

Info: by Hanoch Levin

Directed by Vassiliou Vassia 20th September-28th October Every Friday, Saturday, Sunday, Monday at 20.00

Drama Student DiscounT.: tickets at the theatre box office for €12.

Early Arrival DiscounT.: Α limited number of tickets are available for €5 to people arriving 1 hour before the performance.

Τickets: www.more.com

3 Kon/nou Paleologou St., Athina T.: +30 694 685 1001 www.theatreoftheno.com

Fb: Theatre of the NO Ig: theatreoftheno

FLAVOURS OF GREECE

The best way to immerse yourself in Greek culture is by tasting traditional dishes. The journey into Greek flavours begins with a blend of scents and colours. Start your day with freshly baked delicacies, then try traditional Greek produce from smallscale producers across the country, available in Athenian delicatessens.

Greek cuisine is renowned for its use of fresh, local ingredients and its deep-rooted connection to the country’s history and geography. Did you know that honey has been a part of the Greek diet since ancient times, often referred to as “nectar of the gods”? Greece is also one of the world’s largest producers of olive oil, with some trees dating back thousands of years. Greek wine has a history stretching back 6,500 years, making Greece one of the oldest wine-producing regions in the world. Exploring Greek culinary traditions offers a taste of rich cultural heritage.

What to try: handmade cheese and spinach pies, dairy products (graviera cheese, kefalotyri cheese, manouri cheese, etc.), honey, pasta (ask for chylopites!), cold meats, wine, and definitely some dried nuts.

TWO TRADITIONAL CULINARY JOURNEYS WITH CHRISTINA!

Experience Athens one bite at a time! Join Christina’s 3.5hour tour and savour the best of traditional and modern Greek cuisine. Christina, an experienced guide and Greek cuisine expert, will lead you through festive streets, tasting sweet and savoury pies, teaching you how to make your own gyros or souvlaki. Enjoy Greek coffee demonstrations and snack on charcuterie and cheeses. Explore historic Monastiraki and vibrant Psiri in all their culinary glory, in small groups up to 12 people.

Alternatively, if you want to learn how to make a traditional Greek pies from scratch, join Christina in her own kitchen, where you’ll craft flaky dough using just flour and water. You can easily book this unique cooking class on The Traveling Spoon website or by emailing Christina directly. Seize the opportunity to master the art of Greek pies!

Email: christina@eatingeurope.com

Starring Aegina Pistachio in the heart of Athens

PISTACHIO LAND

In a fully pistachio-themed store, with the renowned nut from the island of Aegina in the main role, you’ll find all the delicacies you imagine based on this tasty and nutritious nut. Aegina pistachio is an exceptional product with a rich history, unique flavour, and high nutritional value, making it one of the finest Greek products. It has gained international recognition and the love of consumers worldwide. Here, the fruit comes directly from the tree, and the people of Pistachio Land create handmade snacks and treats. Apart from the nut itself, you’ll find ice cream and profiteroles, cheesecake and petit fours, pralines and liqueurs, croissants and baklavas, mustard, chutney and pesto, as well as many other products based on the Aegina pistachio. Take a piece of Aegina back to your homeland!

Info:

11 Lempesi St., Athens

T.: +30 211 00 40 550

Ig: pistachioland_ // Fb: PistachioLand

140m / ACROPOLIS METRO LINE 2

FLAVOURS OF GREECE

THE CULTURE OF CRAFT BEER

Beer has always been intertwined with the history of societies. To survive, people had to form cooperative groups, and brewing beer became a fundamental task. It seems that this habit has become embedded in our collective DNA: those who make beer tend to be characterized by extroversion and cooperativeness. As a result, beer as a product, as well as the brewing process, carry a unique culture. History meets the modern world, with varieties like lager, ale, and IPA coming to our glasses in evolved recipes. Taste combinations change, the brewers experiment and the consumer base expands; friends come together and shared experiences are created.

THE EVOLUTION OF GREEK BEER

With the rise in demand for craft beers and the growing love for local gastronomy, coupled with the enthusiastic reception from the public –who have passionately embraced craft recipes– many small breweries have sprung up all over Greece. These breweries have evolved significantly, producing high-quality beers and even winning international awards.

SHARING

The culture of beer has brought all interested parties together around the beverage itself, evolving into a shared passion. Brewers continuously test new recipes and combinations in breweries while also focusing on educating the public and preserving the essence of beer, especially craft beer. This ensures that knowledge is not only passed down from generation to generation but also that the appreciation for beer continues to grow.

Crafting Beer in Athens: The Anastasiou Brewery Story

ANASTASIOU BREWERY

In Greece, beer often took a backseat to other drinks, seen more as a soft drink than a social one. Fotis Anastasiou flipped the script by launching a microbrewery in Athens’ northern suburbs, injecting the city with fresh beer energy. In his backyard brewery, hoppy concoctions are brewed with passion, offering a taste of homemade Greek beer straight from the tap. Next door, The Local Pub serves up these new brews, inviting patrons to explore Athens’ beer scene. It’s a testament to innovation and flavour, where Anastasiou brewery and pub redefine Greek beer culture, one sip at a time.

Info: 25 Chaimanta St., Halandri

T.: +30 694 08 64 443

Ig: anastasiou_brewery

900m / HALANDRI METRO LINE 3

ATHENS UNVEILING

A CITY FULL OF TREASURES

In Athens, two elements stand ouT.: food and history. Both are deeply ingrained in the Greek identity. Given that this city has been continuously inhabited since the Neolithic era, it serves as a testament to human civilization’s resilience, reflected in its multitude of museums preserving this heritage.

With over 60 museums spread throughout the city, Athens is a haven for vacationers who seek to find knowledge. Beyond renowned institutions like the New Acropolis Museum, a wealth of smaller museums awaits, promising delightful surprises.

Modern technology is revolutionizing museums globally, including those in Athens,

offering interactive experiences. Alongside exhibitions showcasing Greece’s rich history and culture, the city is a home to smaller museums, exploring diverse topics such as Greek society, daily life, art, gastronomy, and education. Some offer free or discounted entry, often hosting special exhibitions. Keeping abreast of the latest events enables visitors to fully explore these cultural treasures.

In Athens, history seamlessly blends with contemporary life, enriching every corner of the city. Whether strolling through ancient ruins or indulging in traditional Greek cuisine, visitors find themselves immersed in a vibrant tapestry of past and present. Athens isn’t just a destination; it’s an experience.

ATHENS

ATHENS, AN URBAN MUSEUM

Can you imagine a museum where the entrance is free? Where you can speak as loudly as you want, drink and eat whatever you want? A museum that never closes its doors? Oh, that would be awesome if it were real… And it is. This magical museum is the city of Athens. You can taste history and art in every street of this city.

UNVEILING

Ancient walls and stones, where perhaps a great philosopher once stood. Streets that were once trodden by warriors or renowned politicians, like Pericles. But just by looking around, you’ll understand that Athenian history didn’t end with ancient Greek civilization. The continuation is even more fascinating: Romans, Byzantine Empire, and of course, modern Greek history have all left their marks on the city.

Over the years, many artists have lived and

created in Athens, including famous architects, poets, and musicians. Statues and significant buildings are scattered throughout the city, so a simple stroll can turn into a captivating journey through its history. Are you familiar with names like Kostis Palamas, Alekos Fassianos, Maria Callas, Dimitris Fotiadis, or Melina Merkouri? If not, a quick internet search will prepare you to explore some of Athens’ most strategic and culturally significant points.

Moreover, religion has played a crucial role in Greek history. You’ll find Christian Orthodox churches all over the city, most of which are open to visitors. Take a glimpse at these buildings, which differ greatly from Catholic ones.

Athens is the ultimate urban museum!

A HUB FOR MODERN GREEK HISTORY

THE MUSEUM OF NATIONAL BANK OF GREECE HISTORICAL ARCHIVE

The Historical Archive of National Bank of Greece (HA/NBG) was established in 1938. From then onward, the aim of the institute lies in safeguarding and promoting the archival material of historical significance that is in the possession of the Bank. Since 2002 it has been housed in the renovated Megaro Diomidi, a modern architectural monument that was built in the 1920s. Nowadays it constitutes a multipurpose centre of documentation and culture that is open to the wider public. You are welcome to visit the specially designated museum halls where the following exhibitions are hosted:

1. “The history of the Greek banknote: A journey 1822 - 2002”

2. “The history of National Bank of Greece as reflected in its archives and collections”

3. “Security printing processes and machinery”

Admission is free.

Opening hours: Monday and Wednesday 10:00 – 13:00

Please consult our website to find out about any changes that may occur.

Info: Megaro Diomidi, 146 Tritis Septemvriou St., 112 51 Athens E: ha-nbg@nbg.gr

T.: +30 210 88 07 804 & +30 210 88 07 805

500m / VICTORIA METRO LINE 1

OF ATHENS

THE LEGACY OF GOUNAROPOULOS AND PALAMAS

G. GOUNAROPOULOS MUSEUM

HOMES

HISTORIC

Giorgos Gounaropoulos (G. Gounaro) (Sozopolis, Eastern Rumelia, March 22, 1889 or 1890 - Athens, August 17, 1977) was a Greek painter of the Generation of the ‘30s, renowned for his particularly dreamy paintings. The G. Gounaropoulos Museum was founded in 1979 and opened a year later, on February 8, 1980. It is located in the house-studio of the painter in the Ano Ilisia district of Athens. The museum’s collection includes more than forty oil paintings and drawings by the artist, as well as parts of his personal archive and everyday objects.

6 Gounaropoulou St., Ano Ilisia

T.: +30 210 7777601, +30 210 7487657

Opening Hours

Tuesday-Saturday 9:00-16:00

Closed on Sunday & Monday

Free admission

KOSTIS PALAMAS’S HOUSE

Kostis Palamas (1859-1943) was a poet, writer, playwright, historian, and literary critic, considered one of Greece’s most important poets. He played a crucial role in the development and renewal of modern Greek poetry. The Kostis Palamas House in Plaka, built during the 1920s and 1930s, exemplifies the characteristics of a neoclassical urban house from the interwar period, featuring antefixes and iron railings on the balconies. In this house, Palamas hosted evening gatherings, particularly on Saturday nights, with writers and scholars of the time. They engaged in discussions about intellectual life, contemporary literary movements, and modern European literature.

5 Periandrou St., Plaka

A Timeless Journey in Athens’ Historic Heart

MUSEUM OF MODERN GREEK CULTURE

The Museum of Modern Greek Culture, one of the oldest museums in Greece that was founded in 1918, has recently opened its new exhibition in Monastiraki, the heart of the historical center of Athens, in the city block surrounded by the streets of Adrianou –Areos – Kladou – Vrisakiou, as well as in the Tzisdarakis Mosque.

The building complex is a neighbourhood of modern Athens with buildings dating from the 18th to the beginning of the 20th century, which along with the valuable museum collections that they contain, and the surviving monuments that surround them, form a peculiar monumental and

Info:

cultural landscape in the wider urban plan.

The permanent exhibition presents aspects of the modern Greek culture from the 19th century until today, through artefacts of the country’s material and intangible cultural heritage.

Around 3.000 museum objects of the permanent exhibition, along with digital exhibits, rich visual material, family exhibits, premises for educational programmes and temporary exhibitions, a conference room and an outdoor theatre, rest areas, a café and a museum shop, make up a contemporary museum with its own special identity.

10 Areos St., Monastiraki // Fb: Museum of Modern Greek Culture // Ig: Museumofmoderngreekculture

Opening days and hours: Wednesday, Saturday, Sunday: 8:00 – 20:00 (last entry 19:40) // Monday, Thursday, Friday: 8:30 – 15:30 (last entry 15:10) www.mnep.gr

FAMOUS WRITERS ABOUT THE ACROPOLIS & PARTHENON

SIGMUND FREUD 1904

In the book Sigmund Freud: His Life and Work by Ernest Jones, his visit in Athens is analyzed: “More than twenty years later he said that the amber-coloured columns of the Acropolis were the most beautiful things he had ever seen. As he stood there he had a strange psychological experience which he described many years later in a letter to Romain Rolland. It was a strange refusal to believe in the reality of what lay before his eyes […]. Freud traced the origin of this sense of disbelief to the fact that in his poor childhood he would have found it improbable the idea of ever being able to visit such a wonderful place [...]”.

Sigmund Freud was an Austrian physician, physiologist, psychiatrist and founder of psychoanalysis. Freud visited the Acropolis once. That visit had caused him a strange disorder which occupied him for some time afterwards.

VIRGINIA WOOLF 1906

She visited Greece for the first time in September and October 1906. On this trip, her siblings contracted typhoid fever and her brother Toby died in London in November of the same year. From the book In the Land of the Moon, British Women Travelers in Greece : “The poorest people in Athens ‐and they all seem poor‐ have the pleasant habit of going up here [on the Acropolis] in the evening, when they have finished their work, as we go to our parks. They sit around on the ancient marbles, chatting and knitting. But they don’t spoil the place, like us tourists apparently, but rather make it human and familiar”.

Virginia Woolf was a British novelist and essayist, considered a pioneering and innovative literary artist of the 20th century. During the interwar period she was an important figure in the London literary society and a member of the Bloomsbury Group.

MARK TWAIN

1867

M. Twain arrived in Athens in 1867, as a stop in a trip to the Holy Land. He visited the Acropolis at night, sneaking out from the ship, which was in quarantine, with four fellow travelers. From the book Can-Cans, Cats and Cities of Ash :

“[…] The place seemed full of ghosts. I almost expected to see the Athenian heroes who lived twenty centuries ago burst out of the shadows and sneak into the temple they knew so well and cared for with so much pride… We walked carelessly and without a second thought to the ramparts of the Acropolis, which seemed floating to the voids, and we looked down–what a sight! What a wonderful sight! Athens under the moonlight!”

Samuel Langhorne Clemens, known mainly by his pen name Mark Twain, was an American writer. Among his best-known books are The Adventures of Tom Sawyer and The Adventures of Huckleberry Finn.

DIMITRIS PIKIONIS'S LEGACY: BLENDING ART AND ARCHITECTURE

Born in 1887, Pikionis trained as a civil engineer at Athens Polytechnic School and later studied painting in Munich and Paris. His only architectural apprenticeship was a brief stint in Jules-Léon Chifflot’s office, making him largely selftaught. Returning to Athens in 1912, he began his architectural career and taught at Athens Polytechnic School until 1958.

Each of Pikionis’s buildings is an experiment in what constitutes a place: there is no simplistic borrowing of the ‘local vernacular’. There is always transposition, tension, and risk – an unsettling feeling. His most celebrated project is the landscape surrounding

the Acropolis of Athens, including the Filopappou Hill. Invited by Konstantinos Karamanlis in 1951 to improve routes around the archaeological site, Pikionis approached the project as a “work of art” requiring meticulous attention to detail.

He personally positioned every stone over an 80,000m² area, using found and salvaged materials, including ancient fragments and remnants of demolished neoclassical Athenian mansions. This layering of materials added to the project’s complexity and historical richness. Pikionis incorporated mundane items like draining boards and pipes beneath the sacred rock, creating a narrative that intertwined differ-

ent eras and didn’t adhere to the linear passage of time, described by Peter Smithson as “a story meant to confuse time, not to consolidate it.”

The church of Agios Dimitrios on Filopappou Hill features an elaborate incrustation of found and invented spolia, a timber portico, and a café pavilion, forming a chimeric landscape that blends various influences and times. Pikionis used radial grids of sight lines and arcs to explain the harmony of ancient Greek planning, though much of the project’s design was determined on site through collaboration with craftspeople, embodying the ancient notion of “kairos” – the opportune moment.

A Journey Through Automotive History

HELLENIC MOTOR MUSEUM

The Hellenic Motor Museum, close to the National Archaeological Museum in Athens, is a must-see attraction of the town. Displaying cars from the 20th century, the museum presents 112 exhibits in a 3,000-square-meter space. Visitors ascending a spiral staircase from the street up to the main exhibition space have the opportunity to see an uninterrupted exhibition of about 72 wheels, from ancient times to 1985. The journey starts from the old workshop of the 1930s, where visitors can explore items of a car repair shop of that era. All items and exhibits in general are orig-

inal and add up to approximately 3.500 pieces.

Avion Voisin, Delage, Dino, Bugatti, Ferrari, Maserati, Bentley, BMW, are some of the car industries whose cars are housed in the Museum. The “Transparency” section completes this unique experience. Five “transparent” cars and educational models help the inquisitive visitor understand the actual functions of the engines. Enjoy the ride!

The museum is open to the public from Tuesday to Friday from 10.00 to 16.00 and on the weekends from 11.00 to 18.00.

SIGNS OF THE GERMAN OCCUPATION IN ATHENS (WORLD WAR II)

During World War II, Athens was under German occupation (from 1941 to 1944). Here are some locations in Athens, some enduring marks across the city that serve as poignant reminders of its wartime history.

One prominent site of occupation was 4 Korai Street, where the Rossels mansion, originally belonging to the Ethniki General Insurance Company, was swiftly requisitioned by German troops in April 1941. Converted into a Kommandatur detention center, it housed prisoners before their transfer to other places. Despite German

attempts to erase messages etched into its walls by detainees, these enduring inscriptions stand as a testament to the past.

Another notable location was 13 Elpidos Street, near Victoria Square, where the Special State Security Directorate collaborated closely with the occupying forces, actively suppressing resistance movements. This area remains a characteristic reminder of those tumultuous times.

Ioannis Tsigantes-Svoronos, a Greek soldier and resistance fighter, met his fate in 1943 during the occupation.

His bravery is commemorated today by a sculpture on Alexandras Avenue, near the spot where he was killed.

Even the Acropolis, symbolizing Greece’s resilience, witnessed acts of defiance. In May 1941, students Manolis Glezos and Apostolis Santas courageously removed the Nazi flag from its perch atop the ancient monument, replacing it with the Greek flag under cover of darkness. This bold gesture remains a powerful symbol of resistance.

MUSEUM OF ANCIENT GREEK TECHNOLOGY

KOSTAS KOTSANAS

Renowned and without doubt unrivalled to this day, is the contribution of the ancient Greeks to the field of Philosophy and the Fine Arts. Likewise familiar is their contribution to the field of Science. However, the technology of the ancient Greeks is relatively unknown, just as is their incredible performance in this field. The Museum of Ancient Greek Technology Kostas Kotsanas is the only museum that fills this gap!

The permanent collection “Ancient Greece - the origins of Technologies” includes approximately 300 operating model exhibits of ancient Greek inventions, many of them interactive. The aim of the museums is to highlight this relatively unknown aspect of ancient Greek civilisation and to prove that ancient Greek technology, in the times just before the end of the ancient Greek world, was shockingly similar to that of the beginning of modern times.

info:

6 Pindarou St. & Akadimias, Kolonaki

T.: +30 211 4110044

Fb: Kotsanas Museum of Ancient Greek Technology

Ig: kotsanasmuseum

www.kotsanas.com

BIZARRE MUSEUMS OF ATHENS

PHARMACOLOGY MUSEUM

Pharmacology Museum, established in 1998 by a small group of teaching and scientific staff from the Pharmacology Laboratory of the Medical School, is housed within the same laboratory. The museum showcases instruments and other materials related to the evolution of pharmacology.

School of Medicine of Athens

75 Mikras Asias St., Goudi

EUROPEAN BREAD MUSEUM

The European Bread Museum was founded in 2005, in order to proudly present to the public a many years lasting collectable project. An old mansion in Varnavas was turned into the Museum of Bread. The Museum displays over 3000 items of embroidered Bread, from Greece and 50 other countries.

7 Androutsou St., Varnavas, Attica T.: +30 22950 97870 www.mouseio-psomiou.com

MUSEUM OF THE FILM ARCHIVE

The museum of the Film Archive comprises a small jewel in the history of Greek cinema. The rare exhibits found here include: a collection of the first movie cameras and projectors as well as a complete range of early equipment and objects used in the production and editing of sound and image. There is also an exhibition of “pre-cinema” projection devices, such as: zoetropes, kinetoscopes, praxinoscopes, magic lanterns and others.

48 Iera odos, Kerameikos T.: +30 2103609695 www.tainiothiki.gr

A Unique Interactive Museum for 5+ Children & Teens and All Those Who Love Inner Explorations!

EMOTIONS MUSEUM

Emotions Museum is a worldwide unique, interactive museum dedicated to emotions!

A museum for the playful exploration and creative expression of emotions.

A museum based on Hands On! Minds On! Hearts On! principles.

Each exhibit is a small work of art, an activity, a fairy tale, available in our hands, to help us explore the inner world of emotions.

A joyful place where I can get to know myself, my friends and my family better!

The museum is member of the Association of Children’s Museums HOI «HANDS ON INTERNATIONAL». Ages: 5+ children, teenagers and adults

Weekends: 10:00 – 13:00

Weekdays: By appointment

Ask us about private family / group tours

Info:

7 Karatza St., Athens // Τ.: +30 210 92 18 329 Fb: MCE.GREECE // Ig: EMOTIONSMUSEUM E-mail: info@mce.gr // www.mce.gr

SYNGROU-FIX METRO LINE 2

A bookstore... in your language

POLYGLOT

Welcome to Greece! We hope you enjoy your stay in Athens, accompanied by a good read in your language. Polyglot is a contemporary bookstore offering over 20,000 book titles for both adults and children in English, French, Italian, Spanish, Portuguese, German, Turkish, and more. Located in the heart of Athens, provides a unique multilingual experience with a wide selection of the latest bestsellers and timeless classics. Visit Polyglot and immerse yourself in a world of literature while enjoying the vibrant city of Athens. Happy reading!

Info:

84 Akadimias St., Exarchia

T.: +30 210 33 00 455

Fb: Polyglot Bookstore www.polyglotbooks.gr

450m / OMONIA METRO LINE 2

NO NEED FOR A SCRIPT!

You don’t need to spend much to have a good time in this city. Sometimes, in fact, the most beautiful experiences come completely free or with a small fee. Strolls in the parks, through streets filled with street art, visits to the local markets, and the delightful tunes of street musicians... There are many things you can do without spending a lot. If you’re on a budget or simply want to try the city’s low-budget buffet, we have some ideas and suggestions. In Athens, you can immerse yourself in vibrant street art while riding a bicycle, or a scooter. Admire the murals on the walls of Exarchia or Psiri, depicting tales of everyday life and modern-day heroes.

Intrigued? Dive deeper into the Athenian tapestry, and everything will fall into place, revealing the city’s rich culture, history, and thrills.

URBAN STROLLS

STREET

MUSICIANS STREET ART

Take a stroll from Thissio station to Acropolis station, or vice versa, and enjoy beautiful tunes by street musicians. Impromptu live performances happen everywhere, especially near the Odeon of Herodes Atticus. Feel free to show your appreciation with a small reward, whether it’s a smile, a flower, or some money. They deserve it! These guys make our days brighter!

Immerse yourself in the expressions of young artists through their street art in Athens’ coolest neighbourhoods. Exarchia, a vibrant hub of youth culture, takes pride in its used vinyl and book shops, fantastic guitar stores, and graffiti art. Metaxourghio, another artsy district, also showcases street art around every corner. Take a coffee and a leisurely stroll and let the city’s walls tell the stories of its creative residents.

Voula and Athena, graduates of the Athens School of Fine Arts, are thrilled to introduce their newest ceramic art experience. Nestled in the heart of Plaka, dot.Ah!art beautifully blends traditional techniques with contemporary flair. The studio offers a vibrant and unique collection of ceramic works and invites you to roll up your sleeves and immerse yourself in the creative process. Are you inspired by the charm of Athens? Visit dot.Ah!art to transform your joy and inspiration into a handmade masterpiece. They provide clay, paints, brushes, glazes, and plenty of smiles. Come explore their fantastic shop and let your creativity soar!

Info:

12 Afroditis St., Plaka

T.: +30 210 323 9503

Ig: dotahart_athens_art_lab

Fb: DotAhart - Athens art lab

400m / ACROPOLIS METRO LINE 2

The best street-art tour of Athens

AWESOME ATHENS EXPERIENCES

If you want to experience Athens like a local, join the street-art tours organized by Kalliopi and Thomas. Having lived downtown for years and collaborated with both Athenian and international street artists on various projects and events, they offer unique and relaxed artistic walks through the city’s most hidden and non-touristic spots. Street art is a key feature of these tours, providing insights into the city’s culture and character. Follow the painted walls and uncover the true essence of Athens!

Info:

T.: +30 698 988 8701

E: contact@awesome-athens-experiences.com

Ig: awesome_athens_experiences

URBAN STROLLS

SOS! IN ATHENS, SAFETY GUIDELINES ARE DIFFERENT!

CROSSINGS & STREETS

Navigate Athens with caution, especially at crossings. Obey traffic signals; Greek drivers can be really assertive. Pedestrians have little priority; this is evident throughout the city. Cars won't stop when there is no red-lights for them. Stick to marked crossings and stay safe.

SCAMMERS (PAPATZIDES)

Three slightly worn playing cards lie atop a cardboard box, two or three accomplices, while the scammer (in Greek ‘papatzis’) yells, "Is the priest here, or there? Where is the priest?" Even nowadays, people still fall victim to various scams on Athenas Street or near the Thissio station. They lure you in to play, then swap the cards, leaving you with no chance of correctly guessing the spot of the card or winning any money. Though now widely recognized as fraud (we hope), those coming from abroad would be wise to exercise caution.

PICKPOCKETS

In Athens metro, watch out for pickpockets. Keep your belongings secure, especially in crowded areas. Conceal valuables, use zippered bags, and stay vigilant. Stay aware, stay safe!

Unforgettable wine and food experiences

ATHENS WINE TASTING

Athens Wine Tasting offers small, semi-private and private wine tastings with experienced tour guides. You can taste outstanding wines, distinct flavours and learn all about wine, ancient Greek wine culture and the unique Greek grape varieties. Immerse yourself in the fascinating myths of Dionysius, the Greek god of wine and fertility, while embarking on a virtual tour of the enchanting Greek vineyards. For even more fun you can join their new unique wine workshop activity, where you will assume the role of an oenologist and craft your own wine blend! After doing this, you’ll bottle your wine, wax your bottle, and design a custom label for your very own wine bottle to walk home with!

Info: 9 Tournavitou St., Thissio

T.: +30 697 7912 893

Ig: athens_winetasting

Fb: Athens Wine Tasting www.athens-winetasting.com

300 m / THISSIO METRO LINE 1

The first vegan cooking experience in Greece

SOYBIRD

Are you in Greece and want to learn how to cook traditional recipes yourself, not just try them in restaurants? Or perhaps you want to learn how to cook recipes from countries around the world? Soybird is exactly what you need! A cooking studio where, by participating in its workshops, you can experience the best of vegan cuisine from various parts of the world. Under the guidance of vegan chefs, participants learn to cook their own vegan dishes in just four hours, and at the end, everyone enjoys their creations together — along with a drink. Cooking together, eating together!

Info:

Veikou 75-77 St., Koukaki

T.: +30 697 658 5895

Ig: soybird_athens www.soybird.com

YOUR UNCONVENTIONAL

SEGWAY TOURS

A GREAT OPPORTUNITY TO CREATE UNFORGETTABLE MEMORIES IS HERE!

Ready to see Athens like a local? Hop on an eco-friendly Segway and explore the city in a totally unique way. Segway Tours offers private or group custom-made tours that are exciting, fun, and adventurous, all led by experienced tour guides. Their goal? To see you smile and ensure you leave with amazing memories! Enjoy the best this city has to offer with options like the Ancient Athens Tour, the Modern Athens Tour, and the Athens City by Night Tour! And since safety is their top priority from start to finish, the experience kicks off with a quick intro on how to use the Segway, followed by a training session. Each person receives one-on-one guidance from their awesome staff, so that they practice and get comfortable. Plus, helmets are available for that extra peace of mind!

UNCONVENTIONAL CITY GUIDE

DISCOVER ANCIENT ATHENS!

Cover more ground, see more sights, and enjoy a fun, eco-friendly tour. Explore the Acropolis, Philopappos, Mars Hill, and more with Ancient Athens Tour! A tour with personalized guidance, perfect for history buffs and adventure seekers alike.

DISCOVER MODERN ATHENS!

Explore the National Garden, Panathenaic Stadium, Hadrian’s Arch, and more with Modern Athens Tour. A perfect tour for those who want to experience the most this city has to offer! Hop on the eco-friendly segway vehicles and enjoy!

DISCOVER ATHENS BY NIGHT!

Experience the enchanting allure of Athens during the night with Athens by Night Segway Tour! Witness the city’s monuments transform under the magical glow, from the Parthenon to the Panathinaic stadium. Enjoy a seamless journey that starts in Plaka, with only a brief training session first! A captivating exploration of vibrant neighbourhoods and iconic landmarks.

BEST OF ATHENS TOUR!

Explore the highlights of Athens hassle-free with Best of Athens Segway Tour! Combining our Ancient and Modern Athens tours, you’ll uncover iconic landmarks like Mars Hill, the Acropolis, and the Panathinaikon stadium. Plus, discover hidden gems most visitors miss out on. Ready for an unforgettable adventure?

HOW ABOUT A WALKING TOUR?

What to Bring

* Your best smile!

* Comfortable shoes

* Hat and sun block

The Segway Personal Transporter (PT) is a unique self-balancing device designed for versatile mobility. With five gyroscopes, it responds to your body’s movements, adjusting speed and direction effortlessly. Riders stand on a small platform between two wheels, holding onto a T-bar (handlebar). Segway PTs are perfect for pedestrian pathways and walkways, requiring no license to operate. While they offer a safe and enjoyable ride, they’re not permitted on streets or highways due to regulatory standards. Experience the convenience and fun of exploring the town and visiting sites of interest with a Segway PT.

SUMMER GREEK MOVIES

Two films have become synonymous with summer, both for their content and their frequent showings every summer in cinemas, homes, outdoor screenings, film clubs, and more.

Cheap Smokes (Ftina tsigara)

Screenplay and Direction: Renos Haralambidis Year: 2000

The empty streets of August in Athens create the perfect setting for a love story. Nikos is a young man in his 30s who feels himself changing as he faces the challenges of this new phase in life. He seeks danger and adventure, meets extreme personalities, but what he truly searches for is love. Sofia, 25, is modern and beautiful, working in the fashion industry and living a typical life. Nikos gains her trust, awakening her desire to change everything in her life. Their wanderings through an empty Athens bring them closer together.

Let the Women Wait (As perimenoun oi ginekes)

Screenplay and Direction: Stavros Tsiolis

Year: 1998

Panos and Michalis, small business owners and brothers-in-law from Thessaloniki, embark on a journey to Thassos, where their families are already vacationing. An encounter with a girl at Lake Volvi leads to Panos's emotional breakdown as he falls in love with her and attempts suicide. Michalis calls on their third brother-in-law, Antonis, a politician with PASOK, one of Greece's major political parties from previous decades, for help. However, Antonis's presence does not have the desired effect, and their wives are still waiting for them in Thassos.

Serene, verdant & tasty!

WOODY CITY GARDEN

Located in a beautiful, historic neoclassical building on the beloved Patision Street, just a stone’s throw from major attractions, lies a delightful surprise: Woody City Garden. This all-day cafébar features a hidden courtyard perfect for taking a break. Escape the city’s hustle in this impressive spot filled with flowers and trees, and enjoy delicious coffees from Coffee Republic, tasty brunch options, and refreshing cocktails. It is also ideal for working on your laptop, offering Wi-Fi, power outlets, books, and a tranquil lounge atmosphere. Enter through an impressive open walkway adorned with wood, pebbles, and flowers.

Info:

123 Patision St. // Τ.: +30 694 35 77 633

Ig: woody.citygarden Tik tok WOODY CITY GARDEN

600 m VICTORIA / METRO LINE 1

CINEPHILE'S PARADISE

Trianon, one of the city’s most historic cinemas, has been operating since 1960 and is a beloved spot for cinephiles! Rain or shine, it calls us to enjoy the beauty of the seventh art. Now that the weather is nice, it transforms into an open-air gem, and is a place you must visit. Located at Kodrigktonos 21 (and Patision 101), Trianon is the only cinema that has maintained its avantgarde style at the same time as continuously upgrading its facilities. It’s a haven for Athens’ cinema lovers, boasting a stunning interior with comfy seats and a great foyer. Enjoy drinks and snacks before the show, and don’t miss their diverse film selection. Let’s keep movie magic alive!

info:

21 Kodrigktonos St. & 101 Patision St.

T.: +30 210 82 15 469

Fb & Ig: @cinetrianon www.trianon.gr

350m / VICTORIA METRO LINE 1

INSPIRED BY FASHION AND TRADITIONAL GREEK ART

Kalliope was founded with the desire to create unique jewelry, blending fashion-led design with time-honored techniques. Since 1987, its pieces have embodied traditional craftsmanship, reflecting the passion and skill of their makers. The company regularly showcases its collections at major jewelry trade fairs in Greece and abroad, setting and following fashion trends with a nod to its Greek heritage. Kalliope’s artisanal creations are exported to over 50 countries worldwide. find out more

A: 58, Perikleous St., Syntagma, Athens T.: +30 2102716557 E: info@kalliopejewelry.com S: www.kalliopejewelry.com kalliope.jewelry kalliope

01

ATHENIAN

ANTEFIX

Ακροκέραμο (A-kro-ke-ra-mo):

Let’s imagine the center of the city is Syntagma Square (pretty reasonable, right?). So, if that’s the center, then the first zone is the akrokeramo, the antefix. For the following p.s, the antefix will symbolize the city center with Plaka and its narrow alleys, historic buildings, and all the antefixes on the roofs. Naturally, it couldn’t have any other colour.

Colours:

Neighbourhoods::

SYNTAGMA

KOLONAKI

KOUKAKI

PLAKA

MONASTIRAKI

THISSIO

PSIRI

NAVIGATE IN OUR P.S

02

SKY

Ουρανός (U-ra-nos):

Uranos means sky. For us it’s the second zone, still central but a bit further away from Syntagma. It’s an integral part of the city, but with a few more hills–perfect for enjoying the famous Attica sky. Picture blue skies and a strong character–that’s Uranos, the second zone.

Colours:

Neighbourhoods::

KIPSELI

PAGRATI

EXARCHIA

KERAMEIKOS

PETRALONA

PATISIA

Decode the colours, explore the neighbourhoods of Athens, and make connections.

03

SUN

Ήλιος

(Ι-li-os):

Next, we have Ilios, meaning sun. Further from the center lies the third zone, the yellow sun. It’s warm and cozy. Each area is unique, yet they have all a similar distance from the center, all in their golden glow.

04

Colours:

Neighbourhoods::

KESARIANI

NEA PHILADELPHIA

KALLITHEA

PIRAEUS

KIFISSIA

AETHER

Αιθέρας

(E-the-ras):

Finally, we come to Aether. According to ancient and medieval beliefs, Aether was the material that filled the universe around the earthly sphere. Aether was supposed to be the fifth element, along with fire, air, water, and earth, from which the world was made. These areas are close to the sea, along the Attic coast, and they definitely have a summery vibe.

Colours:

Places:

ALIMOS

AGISTRI

THYMARI

PALETTE CITY

OF COLOURS

A ntefixAnte

AN OPTICAL ILLUSION

We’ve dubbed the center of Athens “Antefix” (in greek “Akrokeramo”). It might seem arbitrary, but we stand by it. Not only because the Parthenon’s roof was adorned with 8,957 marble tiles, 130 of which ended in antefixes, but also because when you look at them upside down, they reveal the owl of Goddess Athena. After all, in the Orphic Hymns, Athena is described as ‘Gleaming-eyed.’ The center of Athens is much the same –wise (we hope), beautifully decorated through its millennia of history, with visual illusions. Just when you think you understand what it’s presenting to you, you discover something new—a fresh image, a brand new meaning.

i x Antefix

SYNTAGMA BUSY

At the heart of the city lies Syntagma Square, with its iconic Parliament building –once the royal palace, the Tomb of the Unknown Soldier, and the lively entrance to Ermou Street with all its hidden alleys. Syntagma has always been alive, initially bustling with cafes and bakeries spilling onto its cobblestones, hosting public film screenings, negotiations for arranged marriages and later becoming the most important backdrop for historic demonstrations, protests, and conflicts. Syntagma neighbourhood is pulsing with the vibrant energy of Athens, becoming a focal point for its residents. Along its streets, architectural wonders coexist with gourmet eateries, chic cafes, and bars.

NAMING:

During the first years of its existance, the area of Syntagma was called ‘Perivolakia’ and it was considered one of the city’s outskirts. Notably, the northern part, now home to the Unknown Soldier monument and the Parliament building, was beyond city limits. Until September 1843, Syntagma Square was known as ‘Platia Anaktoron’ (Palace Square).

On September 3rd, 1843, during a period of generalized economic hardship and national unrest, citizens of the city, along with the army, gathered outside King Otto’s palace, demanding a constitution. After negotiations, the king announced from the palace’s balcony that he had signed a decree for a national assembly to draft one. This marked Greece’s shift from absolute monarchy to constitutional monarchy.

A LITTLE BIT OF HISTORY:

Syntagma is certainly the heart of the city, always bustling with people and giving it a vibrant pulse. Beyond its iconic monuments, it serves as a meeting place for both locals and travelers. Constantly evolving yet retaining its beauty, it changes into a rainbow during the Athens’ pride celebrations, it wears a festive Christmas attire during the holidays, and deserves the title of the city’s largest chameleon. Did you notice it too?

LANDMARKS:

Located between Syntagma Square and the Panathenaic Stadium, the National Garden is one of the most peaceful parks in Athens. Here you can enjoy some tranquil moments away from the noise and the chaos. You can walk along its paths, read your book, organize a picnic, or just enjoy its small wonders. The garden is open from early morning until evening, giving people a quiet spot in the middle of downtown Athens center.

Tips:

Straight from the palace courtyard, the early modern architects of our city carved out Athens’ main commercial street, dedicating it to the ancient god of commerce, Hermes. Since then, for almost two centuries, Ermou has remained one of the country’s most significant roads for window –and actual– shopping.

At Syntagma Square metro station, two out of the three metro lines pass through (metro lines 2 & 3). All around the square, more than 20 different bus and trolleybus lines stop at various bus stops. Additionally, the T6 tram line starts from Queen Amalia Avenue.

Be aware, during days of strikes or demonstrations, the streets around Syntagma are often the first to be closed to traffic by the police.

ELEGAND KOLONAKI

Beneath the gaze of Mount Lycabettus, this neighbourhood in the heart of Athens transformed into an aristocratic district due to its close distance from the Royal Palace. In the early 20th century, it attracted numerous artists and intellectuals, who frequented its many cafes. Kolonaki’s identity is defined by its blend of grand mansions, Art Deco, neoclassical, and interwar modernist architecture, making it a symbol of elegance and urban charm. Serving as Athens’ fashion epicenter, it also offers a plethora of dining options, from global gourmet cuisines to contemporary Greek flavours, alongside cozy cafes for a quick coffee break—an essential indulgence while exploring Kolonaki’s winding streets.

NAMING:

Its name originates from a small column originally located near Dexameni Square and later at Filiki Eteria Square, linked to ancient epidemic prevention measures. These columns were erected over pits where two slaughtered calves were buried after being paraded through the city.

A LITTLE BIT OF HISTORY:

A littile bit of history: During the 1896 Olympic Games, Athens saw for the first time ever a substantial influx of foreign visitors, estimated at around 30,000 Greeks - mainly expatriates - and foreigners, marking the beginning of organized tourism in Greece. With inadequate hotel infrastructure, many homeowners in Kolonaki and Neapolis rented out rooms, seizing the economic opportunity.

LANDMARKS:

Filiki Eteria Square, dating back to 1870, serves as Kolonaki’s central square. It once boasted numerous plane trees, a public fountain, and housed many dairy shops. Since 2022, it has been under construction to become a METRO station. Filiki Eteria Square is a significant landmark of the city. Another notable landmark is Moni Petraki (Petraki Monastery), located at 14 Gennadiou Street. This Byzantine church, dedicated to St. Asomatoi Taxiarchs, is one of Athens’ oldest. Believed to have been built towards the end of the 10th century, it is adorned with 18th-century frescoes.

You can get to Kolonaki via metro line 3, either from Evangelismos station or Syntagma station, and via metro line 2, also from Syntagma station. Additionally, there are numerous buses that traverse Vasilissis Sofias Avenue.

In Kolonaki, interwar apartment buildings were constructed, works of prominent architects from that era. Take a stroll with a coffee in hand and admire them.

Despite being neighboring areas with Exarchia, the atmosphere of the two places is entirely different. Athens is indeed a city of contrasts!

CONTRADICTIVE

Koukaki is a neighbourhood located on the southeastern side of Philopappou Hill. In Koukaki, something unique and distinctly Athenian is happening; the characteristics of every historical and social period are embedded in the buildings, the streets, the passersby, the residents, the atmosphere. The neighbourhood has existed... forever (from Ancient Athens till nowadays), and civilizations, stories, wounds, traumas, developments, and setbacks have been carved upon it. With the shadow of the Acropolis rock lending authenticity to the scene, Koukaki hosts contrasts stemming from the mixture of eras, trends, modernity, and urbanity. Thus, it possesses an identity-based contradiction that accommodates different daily lives, cultures, and civilizations. And these contradictions make it beloved, classic, timeless, modern, and retro all at once.

KOUKAKI

NAMING:

Koukaki was called Gargarétta, a name that seems to have originated from an Italian family in the Middle Ages. Residents, however, argue more that the name comes from the gurgling waters that flowed from Mount Philopappou. In any case, today Gargarétta Square connects Erechtheiou Street with Drakou Street. The name Koukaki emerged when the bed manufacturer Georgios Koukakis built his house at the intersection of Dimitrakopoulou and Georgaki Olympiou streets.

A LITTLE BIT OF HISTORY:

The neighbourhood has existed since Ancient Greece, as it is located beneath the Acropolis. Numerous archaeological findings have been discovered. For instance, parts of the ancient wall that was surrounding the city and the Acropolis have been found in excellent condition in the basement of the Divani Palace Acropolis hotel, where visitors can explore them. During the interwar period, Koukaki was bustling with taverns, among which Silivanis’ tavern on the corner of Diovouniotou and Amyndrou streets that stood out as one of the most renowned. Legend has it that even Joseph Goebbels paid a visit to this establishment.

LANDMARKS:

In the Koukaki/ Makrygianni area, there are many points of interest. A prominent landmark of the area is the former Fix brewery, which now houses the National Museum of Contemporary Art. Plus, you will find the Acropolis Museum, focused on the findings of the archaeological site of the Acropolis of Athens. It is the second most significant archaeological museum within the Greek territory, after the National Archaeological Museum on Patision Street. The museum was built to house every object found on the sacred rock of the Acropolis and its foothills.

Tips:

Metro Line 2 has its own stop for Koukaki (Syngrou-Fix metro station).

Koukaki is a densely populated area since the 1960s and 1970s. It is also a lively area with many opportunities for shopping and entertainment and attracts many tourists.

The neighbourhood serves as the center for most of Athens’ Airbnb accommodations.

EVERLASTING PLAKA

In the “shadow” of Acropolis, Plaka is Athens’ oldest neighbourhood. It has been continuously inhabited since ancient times and was the center of Ancient Athens. It has been known as the “Neighbourhood of the Gods”. It’s a mosaic of historical landmarks, small taverns, passers-by, and architectural diversity. In its narrow streets you can find all kinds of traces of different civilizations. Most of Plaka’s buildings maintain their folkloric style, [stone-built, tileroofed, courtyards, and the hagiat (a small balcony) on the upper floor]. Within Plaka, the Anafiotika district resembles an Aegean Island settlement. Builders and residents from Anafi came to Athens in the mid19th century. The neighbourhood of Plaka stands as a living testament to the different epochs of Athenian history.

NAMING:

The origins of Plaka’s name are not clear to this day. It dates to the late 16th century, and some suggest it stems from the large white slab that was found at the intersection of Thespis, Adrianou, and Tripodon streets. Others say that it derives from the terrain’s flatness, evoking the notion of a “plaka” or plain. Alternatively, it may trace its roots to the Albanian word “plak,” meaning old, reflecting Plaka’s status as Athens’ ancient heart. “Plak’ Athina” would literally be “Old Athens”.

A LITTLE BIT OF HISTORY:

Plaka was famous for its Carnival gatherings, the Karagiozis shadow puppet theater, at Lysicratous Square, its labyrinthine alleys, and the Anafiotika district. Nowadays, amidst its usually quiet streets, traditional taverns invite you to try the exquisite Greek cuisine, while cats climb the stone houses with their terracotta tiles. It is visited by hundreds of thousands of tourists annually and is subject to strict urban planning regulations. It is the only neighbourhood in Athens where all public utilities (water, electricity, cable TV, telephone, internet, and sewage) are provided through underground, specially constructed tunnels to preserve its picturesque character.

LANDMARKS:

The Baths of the Winds (located at Kyrristou Street) are also known as the Hammam of Abid Effendi. Dating back to the first Ottoman period, it is the only public bathhouse in Athens that survives to this day. It was used by men at certain hours of the day and by women at different hours. You will also find the well-known landmark of the Clock of Kyrristos near the Roman Agora, which was designed by Syrian astronomer Andronicus. There, you can also find numerus museums, such as the Museum of Folk Art, the Museum of Greek Folk Musical Instruments and more. Plaka’s history is an important part of Athen’s identity. Tips:

There is no bus or other public transport directly to Plaka. You can go to Monastiraki and walk uphill from there.

It’s the most photogenic neighbourhood in Athens.

You will find numerous souvenir shops and all kinds of small boutiques.

VIBRANT

Monastiraki is a combination of history, culture, and nightlife. Its diverse heritage is still present to this day. It is deeply intertwined with commerce, particularly in vintage and second-hand goods. Pandrosou sreet was once the central thoroughfare of the Ottoman-era Bazaar, imbuing the area with a distinct Eastern flair. At the heart of Monastiraki lies its famous flea market, perfect for bargain shopping. Enjoy the parties in the square with their African traditional instruments giving a rhythm in everyone’s steps. Enjoy, as well, the surprises! History is written here in every corner. Monastiraki is a neighbourhood no traveler can miss, while visiting the city.

MONASTIRAKI

NAMING:

Monastiraki, which literally means “small monastery” derives its name from the Pantanassa Monastery, dedicated to the Dormition of the Virgin Mary, constructed during the 10th to 11th centuries. Most of the area that now comprises the square originally belonged to the monastery’s courtyard. However, when the monastery lost all its possessions and glory during the 19th century, the area became known as Monastiraki instead of Monastery Square. Irony seems to be one of Greeks’ strong qualities.

A LITTLE BIT OF HISTORY:

In the late 19th century, it served as a parking spot for horse-drawn carriages, earning it the moniker “Carriage Square.” Performances by wrestlers, acrobats, and illusionists, as well as itinerant vendors, added to the lively ambiance. Till this day it’s one of the center’s most vibrant parts. Besides the flea market it also has many bars and eateries and it’s an easy meeting spot as well as the perfect place to start a long walk around the center.

LANDMARKS:

A noteworthy landmark is the Tzistarakis Mosque, now part of the Museum of Modern Greek Culture. It was built in 1759 by Mustafa Agha (Tzistarakis). To acquire the necessary lime for its construction, Mustafa Agha demolished a column from the Temple of Olympian Zeus, for which he faced severe punishment. The neighbourhood also hosts the Athens-Piraeus Electric Railway station, constructed in 1895, the Ancient Agora and its museum, a great number of souvenirs’ shops and the famous Stoa of Attalos.

Tips:

You can reach here via metro lines 1 and 3, as well as various bus routes.

There are numerous rooftop bars around the Monastiraki neighbourhood. Go up and enjoy the breeze and the view.

The peculiar antique stores are open daily! You should definitely pay a visit!

DREAMY

The neighbourhood of Thissio is a rich tapestry of history and cultural significance. It is situated northwest of the Acropolis. It hosts the National Observatory of Athens, the oldest meteorological station in Greece and one of the oldest in Southern Europe. Before the Greek revolution, the area that is now the vibrant square was comprised of threshing floors, as depicted in the earliest city plans by Kleandros and Saubert. Known as “Alonia” (meaning threshing floors), this broader region around the square was integral to the city’s agricultural practices. Today, it is a lively spot with astonishing views of the Acropolis, bars, and coffee shops, making it a great place to walk all year round.

THISSIO

NAMING:

Thissio’s crown jewel is the Temple of Hephaestus, one of the best-preserved ancient monuments in all of Greece. This Doric temple stands as a tribute to Hephaestus and Athena, two of the 12 gods of Olympus. Hephaestus was known as the god of craftsmanship, and Athena, the patron goddess of artisans. Thissio took its name from this temple, formerly called Theseion, mistakenly, due to the different representations of Theseus (a mythological king of Athens) depicted on its facades.

A LITTLE BIT OF HISTORY:

For years, an open-air cinema of silent movies thrived in Thissio, offering locals and visitors a unique cinematic experience. However, when strong winds blew, the screen would sometimes collapse onto the unsuspecting audience below. Additionally, the “Zephyros” summer cinema added to the neighbourhood’s allure, providing cinematic entertainment under the starlit Athenian sky. In times past, every Monday, the square hosted the “alogopazaro” (horse bazaar), a bustling market where horses and donkeys were traded. Following the catastrophic events of the Asia Minor Disaster, refugees found temporary shelter here in wooden shacks, which were later demolished.

LANDMARKS:

A noteworthy landmark is the Tzistarakis Mosque, now part of the Museum of Modern Greek Culture. It was built in 1759 by Mustafa Agha (Tzistarakis). To acquire the necessary lime for its construction, Mustafa Agha demolished a column from the Temple of Olympian Zeus, for which he faced severe punishment. The neighbourhood also hosts the Athens-Piraeus Electric Railway station, constructed in 1895, the Ancient Agora and its museum, a great number of souvenirs’ shops and the famous Stoa of Attalos.

Tips:

You can reach Thissio by taking numerous buses or the ‘Elektrikos’ train (metro line 1).

Thissio is an ideal spot for shopping handmade jewelry and other artifacts at the open-air booths right outside the metro station.

Many cafes and bars in the neighbourhood offer stunning views of the Acropolis. Find the one that suits you and enjoy your drinks with the best view.

EXTROVERTED

Psiri is a neighbourhood steeped in history and charm. It is located between Athena, Ermou, and Ag. Asomaton streets. Its narrow alleys are full of beautiful neoclassical houses with small balconies and inner courtyards. Once a den of outlaws and armed men, it transformed into a refuge for refugees after the Asia Minor Catastrophe. Over the years, notable figures like the great writer Alexandros Papadiamantis lived there. Today it’s a “party area”, with numerous bars and coffee shops, with Heroes’ Square (named after the heroes of the 1821 Revolution), one of the oldest squares of the city, as its beating heart.

PSIRI

NAMING:

Its name is attributed to someone named Psyrros, who owned vast lands in the area. Psyrros was a fisherman from the island of Psara (or Psira). During the Ottoman period, it thrived as a densely populated neighbourhood with numerous artisan workshops. Wealthy merchants resided here alongside foreign travelers, and it was a hub for revolutionaries in the early 19th century.

A LITTLE BIT OF HISTORY:

The House with the Caryatids, a two-story neoclassical gem on Agion Asomaton Street, stands out with its iconic sculptures supporting the balcony. Crafted by sculptor Ioannis Karakatsanis in the late 19th century, it epitomizes Athenian neoclassicism. Some argue that it belongs to the Kerameikos district instead, but that is of little importance. Psiri hosts significant cultural sites like the Museum of Folk Art and the Paul and Alexandra Kanellopoulos Museum, reflecting its rich heritage.

LANDMARKS:

Once disparaged as a haven for criminals, Psiri has undergone a remarkable transformation into a vibrant cultural hub. After sheltering refugees, it became a melting pot of diverse communities, fostering creativity and resilience. Here, the city’s legacy intertwines with modern entertainment venues, embodying Psiri’s evolution from a turbulent past to a dynamic present. Varvakeios Market is located near the northeastern edge of Psiri, while Koumoundourou Square is a short distance from Sarri Street to the northeast.

Tips:

From artistic bars and trendy galleries to industrial-themed bars and clubs, handmade item shops, New York style concept stores, neoclassical buildings housing ethnic food restaurants, old workshops, and huge clubs, the options in Psiri are truly endless.

The easiest way to reach Psiri is via metro line 1. It’s roughly the same distance between Monastiraki station and Thissio station.

Empros Theatre is not only an artistic venue but also a social and political hub. Check its schedule for a variety of activities and show your support for its community!

KOLONAKI

IPPOPOTAMOS BAR p. 60

KIOUZIN p. 81

DISCOMPALA p. 83

AGIOS p. 83

SYNTAGMA

KIKI DE GRÈCE p. 61

RUDE LORD p. 61

ARISTON p. 65

GLUG GLUG p. 69

AIOLIKI ODOS p. 71

ATENO COOK & DELI p. 75

BARTESERA ATHENS p. 78

THE NEW ERA p. 81

KOUKAKI

CHICO ATHENS p. 63

ĒRE ATHENS p. 63

KOUNTOURIOTIKO p. 65

AÇAÍ VERÃO p. 69

LOS TACOS p. 75

SEAWOLF p. 77

THISSIO

UBUNTU p. 63

PSIRRI

TAPFIELD p. 75

MONASTIRAKI

ERMOU SPIRITS CAVA PITTARAS p. 64

BUENA VISTA SOCIAL BAR p. 67

FAVORITA p. 67

KLIMATARIA p. 72

MAHAIRITSA p. 73

DIA TAFTA p. 73

KOUKOUVAYA p. 74

KALISPERA p. 77

EN AITHRIA p. 80

PLAKA

ACROPOLIS TAVERNA p. 70

NEOS KOSMOS

TRIKYKLO p. 71

IN ANTEFIX

ATHENEAN'S TALK

Stergiana Tzegka

THE CENTER OF ATHENS IS WHERE ANYTHING CAN HAPPEN

For years, I’ve been walking the center of Athens without ever growing weary of it. It offers everything one could desire, including imaginative graffiti on its walls, a blend of chaos and beauty, ancient ruins, unconventional architecture, quirky shops, and even quirkier people. It’s a place where you can walk comfortably with just a good pair of sneakers and a curious spirit. Athens might seem puzzling, but don’t be fooled – this urban wonderland can either enchant or dismay you, depending only on your receptiveness.

Within minutes, you can transition from ancient ruins to trendy pedestrian streets. Vast squares like Syntagma can lead you to narrow streets with ethnic eateries, commercial streets like Ermou, or alleys with bars and

cafes where people chatter away, enjoying the perpetually oh-sosunny weather. And the sky of Attica, with its shades of orange, red, pink, and purple before dusk, hangs overhead. As you stroll, surprises will continue to delight you at every turn.

I’m not an Athenian – but then again, who truly is? Most of us weren’t born here; we chose it as our home. Although I come from the North, I’ve spent most of my adult life here. The sight of Lyccabetus hill or the Parthenon still amaze me. Modernity, antiquity, and art, art, art! The center of Athens is where anything can happen.

Sips, charm & rock’n’roll

IPPOPOTAMOS BAR

Between Exarchia and Kolonaki, Ippopotamos is an iconic bar in a charming pedestrian street, reminiscent of those of the Greek islands. Its friendly atmosphere and authentic urban vibe make it a favorite summer hangout. The tables on Delphon pedestrian street are ideal for morning coffee and snacks to afternoon cocktails. In the evening, the rich bar and the sound of rock music (from the 50s to today) invite you to enjoy your drink until late at night. This classic yet modern spot has been keeping Athenians company for over three decades. Don’t miss it for the world!

Info:

3B Delphon St., Kolonaki

T.: 210 36 34 583

Fb: Ippopotamos bar // Ig: ippopotamos

600m / PANEPISTIMO METRO LINE 2

The wine bistrot you need in Athens

KIKI DE GRÈCE

As you walk in the beautiful alleys of the center around Syntagma, take a break to relax at the hidden and cozy pedestrian area of Ipitou Street. There you will meet Kiki de Grèce; Athens’ heart cutest wine bistrot. Try the smart combinations of creative cuisine made by fresh raw materials. The wine list of 42 different wine labels is waiting for you to enjoy them in a glass. Combine food with wine and indulge in a journey of flavours!

Info:

4 Ipitou St., Athens

T.: +30 2103211279

Fb + Ig: @kikidegrece

500m / SYNTAGMA METRO LINE 2, 3

Join the Rebellion

RUDE LORD

Unleash your inner rebel at Rude Lord, the most audacious bar in town. Nestled in the heart of the city, right next to Syntagma Square, Rude Lord offers a unique experience with its bold drinks, edgy atmosphere, and unapologetically fun vibe. Perfect for those who dare to be different, our bar combines top-notch cocktails with a cheeky twist, guaranteeing a night to remember. Whether you’re here for the cocktails, the beats, or the vibe, Rude Lord promises an unforgettable night out. Join us to be part of the rebellion and experience the ultimate Athens nightlife entertainment. Cheers!

Info:

11 Kolokotroni St., Athens

T.: +30 697 195 3211

Ig: rudelordthebar // Fb: RudeLord www.rudelord.com

450m / SYNTAGMA METRO LINE 2, 3

FAMOUS & UNKNOWN

Two famous and two lesser-known squares and pedestrian streets in the city. Discover both popular and hidden gems for summer strolls in the heart of Athens!

Klafthmonos Square (meaning ‘Square of Weeping’) is a central square in downtown Athens. It was named after a magazine article by Demetrios Kambouroglou, referring to the place where dismissed public servants gathered to protest their layoffs. Previously, it was known by various names, including Aeschylus Square, 25th of March Square, and Democracy Square. The square’s sculpture ‘National Reconciliation’ was created by sculptor Vassilis Doropoulos and depicts three large human-like figures, 8 meters tall, embracing each other as a symbol of reconciliation.

Abyssinia’s Square is located between Ermou and Ifestou streets in Monastiraki, is part of the historic old city. Named after the ancient name for Ethiopia, it reflects the area’s multicultural past, hosting a famous antique market since 1910. Historically, it was a metalworking hub, known as Gyftika during Ottoman times. The square was named Yusurum after Noah Yusurum, a beloved antique dealer who settled there in 1863.

Dionysiou Areopagitou pedestrian street is an 830-meter route starting from Amalias Avenue, opposite the Temple of Olympian Zeus and Hadrian’s Gate, and extending to Apostolou Pavlou, ending in Thiseio. Named after Dionysius the Areopagite, the first Athenian to convert to Christianity from Apostle Paul’s preaching, as recorded in the Acts of the Apostles. Ascending Dionysiou Areopagitou, one encounters significant ancient monuments on the right, including the Parthenon, alongside notable modern structures on the left, forming a small, upscale neighbourhood.

Georgaki Olympiou pedestrian street in Koukaki, just a few minutes from Acropolis, is named after Georgakis Olympios (1772-1821), a hero of the Greek Revolution and a key ally of Alexander Ypsilantis. Despite its small size at just 150 meters, the street is bustling with bars and charming cafes, offering vibrant nightlife and making it an ideal spot for summer evening strolls.

A funky spot for every hour

CHICO ATHENS

In trendy Koukaki, we head to Chico, a unique New Age bistro for its exceptional coffee. They serve their own espresso blend, created in collaboration with Tanica, featuring beans from East Africa and Guatemala. Evenings offer a cozy atmosphere and fantastic cocktails, like the signature Chico Margarita, with blanco & Reposado tequila, lemon, agave, bitter liqueur, and chili-coconut salt powder. We can also taste great street food (burgers, hot dogs, etc.) and a variety of brunch options. Chico is funky and fun, an awesome spot for any time of the day.

Info:

92 Veikou St., Koukaki // T.: +30 210 92 42 258

www.chicoathens.com

Fb: Chico Athens // Ig: chico.athens

600m / SYNGROU FIX METRO LINE 2

There is a concept!

ĒRE ATHENS

Info:

30, Erechthiou St., Koukaki

T.: +30 2109236622

Ig: ere_athens // Fb: ERE Athens

500m / ACROPOLIS METRO LINE 2

Beloved & tasty

UBUNTU

Info:

58 Nileos St., Thissio

T.: +30 210 34 10 566

Fb: Ubuntu_ath // Ig: ubuntu_ath

600m / KERAMEIKOS METRO LINE 3

ĒRE is a space for the curious and the aesthetics aficionados. In ĒRE, you will find a hand-picked assortement that ranges from local products and artisan’s design work, to emerging international brands of homeware and personal items. Plus, you will find a carefully crafted menu of fresh pastries that you can pair with a coffee and casual chat.

Ubuntu delights us with diverse, delicious coffee blends and unexpected aromas from distant lands. It enriches the Thissio neighbourhood with its laid-back atmosphere, offering savoury and sweet vegan treats for your everyday snacks. More than a café, Ubuntu is a social hub where familiar faces meet, making it indispensable to the city.

OUTDOOR MARKETS IN ATHENS

FLEA MARKETS

Outdoor vendors of vintage items are scattered throughout Monastiraki and have become a tradition in Athens’ market scene. There, you can stumble upon incredible objects from all eras: from books, records, and dolls to phonographs, decorations, and small furniture. But the beauty is, you don’t need to know what you’re looking for before you go... What you eventually find might surpass your imagination!

HANDMADE PRODUCT STANDS

In many parts of the historic center (and beyond), you will encounter outdoor vendors selling their own creations to make a living. Jewelry, paintings, souvenirs, and more are on display. Because the people behind the stalls are also the creators of the products, they can help you make the best choice. And of course, it’s always charming to meet the creator in person and know whose hands crafted what you’re buying.

FARMERS’ MARKET

Typically held once a week on a specific street in each neighbourhood, these markets open early in the morning and last until noon, allowing producers to sell their products directly to consumers. You’ll find a wide array of fruits, vegetables, clothing, flowers, fish, eggs, honey, dried fruits, kitchen items, and more. Once primarily frequented by older individuals, now younger people are increasingly returning to these markets for their weekly grocery shopping, drawn by the variety and lower prices.

So many flavours

ERMOU SPIRITS CAVA PITTARAS

Discover the mysteries of premium wines, rare beers, and spirits right in the heart of the city, at Ermou Spirits Cava Pittaras. Nestled in a charming neoclassical space, with flawless service and an abundance of flavours to try, this famous store will excite you! Whether for yourself or as gifts for loved ones, Ermou Spirits Cava Pittaras has an extensive selection of both local and imported labels. Whether you prefer doorstep delivery or an in-store experience, indulge in the rare flavours you’ve been longing to taste.

Info:

90 Ermou St., Monastiraki

T.: +30 210 322 9999

Fb: cavapittaras // Ig: Ermouspirits

180m / MONASTIRAKI METRO LINES 1 & 3

The best traditional Greek pies of Athens

ARISTON

Savoury or sweet, with various types of filo, traditional pies are a big chapter in Greek gastronomy. Sometimes they are the main appetizer or a tasty and healthy snack during the day! At Ariston (open since 1910!), you can find more than 70 different pies every day, including those with spinach and feta cheese, kasseri cheese, mushrooms, pumpkin, apple, and the famous bougatsa with cream. However, what you absolutely must try before leaving Greece is the tyropita kourou (the cheese pie with kourou dough that started it all); it’s truly the best kourou cheese pie in Greece.

Info:

10 Voulis St., Athens

T.: +30 21 0322 7626

500m / SYNTAGMA METRO LINE 2, 3

Authentic grill tastes

KOUNTOURIOTIKO

Indulge in traditional, yet affordably priced Greek cuisine at Kountouriotiko, a local gem nestled in the vibrant neighbourhood of Koukaki. This grill restaurant tops the list of Greek culinary favorites, thanks to its dedication to using the finest ingredients. Savour the succulent kebab, a harmonious blend of beef and lamb inspired by an oriental recipe, or delight in a beef burger stuffed with creamy feta cheese. And don’t miss out on their renowned gyros—widely acclaimed as the best in Athens!

Info:

3 Kountouriotou Square & 11 Evropis St., Koukaki

T.: +30 21 0922 9944

IG & Fb: kountouriotiko

700m / SYNGROY-FIX METRO LINE 2

PARKS & PEAKS

NATIONAL GARDEN OF ATHENS:

Situated between Syntagma Square and the Panathenaic Stadium, the National Garden is a tranquil oasis in the heart of Athens. This extensive city park is the perfect escape from the Athenian chaos, offering narrow labyrinth paths, wooden benches, and serene lakes. Open from sunrise to sunset, it’s a green sanctuary in the heart of our metropolis.

ZAPPEION:

This beautiful garden, bordered by Herodou Attikou, Vas. Konstantinou, Vas. Olgas, and Vas. Amalias streets, as well as the National Garden, covers 126.4 acres. Within it, you’ll find a children’s playground, benches, statues, lush greenery, and the Zappeion Mansion, designed by T. Hansen (1874-1888) for Evangelis Zappas, who aimed to revive the Ancient Greek Spirit, Olympic Games, and Greek arts.

LYCABETTUS HILL:

For the best view in Athens, head to Lycabettus Hill, the highest point in the city center at 277 meters. Take metro line 3 to Evangelismos station, then walk to the Kolonaki district. From there, hop on the cable car for 10 euros round trip. Enjoy the breathtaking cityscape! On clear days, you might even see Aegina Island. Enjoy the heights!

FILOPAPPOU HILL:

The Hill and Monument of Filopappou, southwest of the Acropolis, is a favorite spot for Athenians, offering stunning views of the Acropolis, Athens, and the Aegean Sea. Named after Gaius Julius Antiochus Epiphanes Philopappos, the hill also features the National Observatory and the charming church of Agios Dimitrios Loubardiaris, popular for weddings and baptisms.

Where Athens Meets Havana

BUENA VISTA SOCIAL BAR

Like a vintage film set, Buena Vista Social Bar blends Athens with Havana’s charm. With its retro flair and Latin American vibes, it captivates. The Acropolis and Parthenon provide a stunning backdrop, making you feel part of the scene. The menu tantalizes with diverse coffee, tea, and cocktails crafted from authentic Latin American spirits. Don’t miss the brunch or allday Latin American dishes like tacos and quesadillas. Ethnic tunes transport you far from daily life.

Info:

7 Agiou Filippou St., Monastiraki

T.: +30 210 32 10 017

Fb: Buena Vista Social Bar

Ig: Buena Vista Social Bar

290m / MONASTIRAKI METRO LINES 1 & 3

Where the walls whisper stories

FAVORITA

In Favorita, eclectic elements from past decades gather on the walls, capturing the essence of 20th-century life. This beloved spot spreads its vibrant energy across Avissinias Square, intertwining its music with the charm of neighboring antique shops. Here, you’ll indulge in Greek cuisine, featuring classic recipes with unique twists. As you savour each bite, let the ambiance transport you back in time, creating memories that blend the past with the present in an unforgettable fusion of flavours and nostalgia.

Info:

10, Avissinias Sq.-Monasriraki

T.: +30 210 3210016

Fb: Favorita Eatery & Drinkery

Ig: @favorita.athens

230m / MONASTIRAKI METRO LINES 1 & 3

KUZINA

Our favorite restaurant Kuzina, located in the historic center of Athens, is a timeless destination for Greeks but also international visitors because it combines the unique location with an unparalleled gastronomic experience. The magnificent neoclassical mansion where its hosted, located on the picturesque Adrianou street, keeps a hidden surprise for its guests: the enchanting tarazza which awaits as always its guests to enjoy unique evenings with stunning views in the Temple of Hephaestus and the Acropolis. Also, on the groundfloor the brown shades of “earthy” materials - such as wood and wicker details - create a unique atmosphere, while the solid white marble emphasizes the two points from which the power of the restaurant springs: the open kitchen and the impressive bar. The creative chef Aris Tsanaklidis, who has been at the helm of Kuzina since day one, presents a delicious menu combining Greek ingredients in special recipes with fusion influences.

Imaginative cuisine, unpretentious ambience and unique views are harmoniously combined to offer a unique experience, in a restaurant proposed by the Michelin guide for many years, featured in the Gogobot guide and it’s among the top 10 restaurants with best views according to BBC.

Info: 9 Adrianou St., Thissio T.: +30 210 3240133

Fb: Kuzina Athens

Ig: kuzina.gr www.kuzina.gr/en

160m / THISSIO METRO LINE 1

Elegance in every sip

GLUG GLUG

Discover a world of delicious wines from both Greek and international vineyards, paired with Italian cuisine in a distinctive, humor-infused, elegant setting. Located in the beloved Karitsi Square, Glug Glug , named after the gurgling sound of liquid, being poured from a bottle, is stylish and inviting, quickly becoming the talk of the town. Its signature cocktails, whimsically named with religious themes (Garden of Eden, Sinner, Saint), add a playful touch. Enjoy fantastic cheese and charcuterie boards, pizzetti, warm focaccia, and more. Candlelight, the DJ’s tunes, and the diverse wine and cocktail lists, create a truly memorable night out.

Info:

5 Karitsi Square // T.: +30 210 32 57 673

Fb: Glug Glug Athens // Ig: glug_glug_athens

350m / PANEPISTIMIO METRO LINE 2

Beloved, tropical & tasty

AÇAÍ VERÃO

Athens is jazzed with Açaí Verão, a concept store inspired by Brazil’s vibrant nature and joyful people. Açaí, a small dark purple berry, straight from the amazon rainforest, goes into a bowl and can be served with a variety of vegan or non-vegan toppings for a rich and flavourful experience. Pair it with specialty coffee for an extra treat. Experience Brazil’s nature and joy at Açaí Verão in Koukaki as well as in its brand-new space, in Syntagma! Que delícia!

Info:

• 6 Falirou St., Koukaki

• 11 Nikis St., Syntagma

T.: +30 211 00 11 806

Ig: @acaiveraogr

240m / ACROPOLIS METRO LINE 2

ACROPOLIS & PARTHENON

FUN FACTS ABOUT THE ACROPOLIS

The most famous monument in Greece has undoubtedly endured numerous disasters. Throughout its long and tumultuous history, the Acropolis and the Parthenon have stood as silent witnesses to Greece’s past. Yet, despite the challenges, the Parthenon remains an emblem of Greece. Here are some key historical moments “engraved” on its marbles:

• In the 3rd century AD, the Heruls (Germans with roots in Scandinavia) invaded Athens and set fire to the Parthenon. Its interior was destroyed but later repaired by Emperor Julian a century afterward.

• At the end of the 5th century, the Parthenon was converted into a church. During the Frankish rule, it became a Catholic church with a bell tower. You can still see holes on the platform that the Franks dug to play a traditional ball game.

• In 1687, during the Veneto-Turkish War, Venetian admiral Morosini besieged the Acropolis, shelling it for four days from the Hill of the Muses. A shell destroyed the Parthenon, and it remained deserted until the Ottomans built a mosque there again.

• On October 14, 1852, a storm and two earthquakes struck Athens. One column of the Temple of Olympian Zeus collapsed, and the mosque that the Ottomans had built on the Parthenon also fell. Many anti-Othonian Athenians believed this was a sign from God against Bavarian rule.

• In 1822, during the Greek Revolution, the Acropolis was besieged by Greek forces. The Turks destroyed parts of the temple to extract lead from the links to make ammunition.

Despite these many trials, the Parthenon remains a symbol of resilience and hope, continuing to inspire all who gaze upon it.

ACROPOLIS TAVERNA

Acropolis Taverna in Plaka is in one of the most picturesque and historical parts of Athens since 1980, at the foot of the Acropolis overlooking the Parthenon. For about 40 years it has been serving not only tourists but also locals well-cooked food. Don’t miss out on the famous moussaka and dolmades with egg-lemon sauce, all while enjoying a stunning view of the historic rock and the Romaiki Agora. Experience the true essence of Athens and take home memories that will last a lifetime.

Info:

2 Epaminonda St., Plaka

T.: +30 2103215737

Ig: tavernacropolis

270m / MONASTIRAKI METRO LINE 1&3

Delicious lunch and dinner at Aiolou Street

AIOLIKI ODOS

Aioliki Odos translates to Aiolou Street, and this Greek restaurant’s name is inspired by its location. Situated downtown, it is a place that offers all-day delights. From breakfast and coffee to a wide variety of Greek cuisine, there’s something for everyone. The staff is always ready to recommend the plate of the day, ensuring it’s fresh and delicious. Experience the essence of Greek hospitality in an atmosphere that transports you to Ancient Athens. Conveniently located near significant city landmarks like the Acropolis and Syntagma Square, Aioliki Odos is a must-visit.

Info:

57, Aiolou St., Athens

Τ.: +30 210 32 32 368

600m / OMONIA METRO LINE 1, 2

Tastiness with a beautiful backdrop

TRIKYKLO

Trikyklo (meaning “tricycle”) is located on the pedestrian road of Pytheou street, in a renovated two-story stone building from 1931, with its own yard. The menu consists of authentic Greek and Mediterranean recipes, such as sauteed pork bites in a white sauce with figs, plums, twelve spices, and the Edesma salad with butterhead lettuce, red and green leaf lettuce, baby rocket, dried figs, soft goat cheese, and Greek smoked chicken. All spirits served are carefully selected, including some delicious Greek ones. Choose your spot in the yard or at the tables on the pedestrian street and enjoy the vibes of the nearby Labrakis Hill.

Info: Pitheou 34 St., Neos Kosmos

T.: +30 210 92 32 384

Ig: totrikyklo // Fb: @totrikyklo www.totrikyklo.gr

650m / AGIOS IOANNIS METRO LINE 2

LET THE SUNSHINE IN

The sun and the mild climate that characterize most parts of Greece are also reflected in its architecture. As you’ll notice from your first walks in Athens, most buildings have balconies. These balconies are not just architectural elements but integral parts of Greeks’ daily lives. They serve as extensions of homes. There, we hang clothes, eat, enjoy our coffee, and engage in conversations. During the summer months, balcony doors often remain open all day, and visits to the balcony are frequent.

Roof terraces are another distinctive feature. Since the time houses stopped having tiled roofs and became apartment buildings, every construction has its own terrace. Some are smaller, some larger, but all offer views that are usually missing from lower apartments. Terraces serve as communal spaces where residents can host parties or lay out long sheets, blankets, and other large fabrics that don’t fit on balcony lines.

Many homes, especially those from older decades (typically two-story, or occasionally three-story buildings), have backyards that aren’t visible from the front. These yards have been a part of Greek homes for centuries, both on the islands and in mainland Greece. They too play an important role in daily life, functioning like balconies but with the notable advantage of a much larger space. In today’s urban Athenian landscape, those fortunate enough to have homes with such a yard are considered lucky.

A piece of downtown history

KLIMATARIA

The name of this historic tavern reveals its Greek identity. Klimataria is a kind of grape vine on a hanging trellis, a plant fully routed in Greek history through the centuries. Klimataria is an authentic Greek tavern where you can enjoy the vibe along with the delicious Greek traditional cuisine (try the lamb slow-cooked in a wood oven). Here you can chance to taste homemade bread and recipes made with extra virgin olive oil. After 9 p.m., the rebetiko (Greek urban folk music) live music program in the beautiful backyard will complete your experience of old Athens.

Info:

2 Theatrou Sq., Athens

T.: +30 210 32 16 629

Ig: tavernaklimataria1927 www.klimataria.gr

400m / PANEPISTIMIO METRO LINE 2

A unique experience inside Varvakeios Market

MAHAIRITSA

Mahairitsa means the knife that butchers use to cut meat, but in a smaller size. Is located in Varvakeios Market and especially inside the Stoa Athanaton (means Arcade of Immortals), a historical arcade of Athens. At this tavern you can enjoy traditional Greek dishes, grilled meat that comes directly from the butchery located opposite taverna, and fresh fish from the fish shops of the Marketplace too. Locals and tourists mingle at Mahairitsa to enjoy the wine of Tirnavos, a place at Greece famous for its wines and distillates.

Info:

2 Armodiou St. (inside Varvakeios Market)

Τ: +30 21 0 33 12 352

Ig: tavernamaxairitsa // Fb: @mahairitsa

600m / MONASTIRAKI METRO LINE 1, 3

Original Greek recipes of the highest quality

DIA TAFTA

Dia Tafta is a top spot in Athens, known for its authentic Greek cuisine and warm hospitality. With its charming décor of stone and wood, it exudes the warmth of a traditional Greek household, serving dishes that evoke the feeling of a Sunday feast, which holds special significance in Greek culture. Classic recipes, inventive culinary delights, and an updated wine list, all set against a backdrop of the majestic Acropolis, create the perfect spot, always accompanied by traditional live Greek music.

Info:

37 Andrianou St., Monastiraki

Τ.: +30 210 32 12 347

Fb: Dia Tauta // Ig: diatautaresto www.diatauta.com

150m / MONASTIRAKI METRO LINE 1&3

A BLEND OF HERITAGE AND FLAVOUR

HISTORIC DINING AND DRINKING SPOTS IN ATHENS

Diporto, the iconic tavern situated on the corner of Socrates and Theatre streets, has been a beloved spot for locals and foreigners for its exceptional cuisine since 1900. Despite its unassuming appearance, Diporto is consistently bustling, thanks to its stellar reputation. With two entrances and a menu featuring some of the city’s most authentic dishes, it’s always vibrant. Mr. Mitsos, the owner, expertly prepares and serves warm greens, fava beans, chickpea soup, beef soup, stews, grilled fish, and delicious octopus. Unfortunately, after over a century in operation, Diporto faces closure, signaling the end of an era in Athens’ culinary scene.

The traditional Kafeneion Oraia Ellas is one of the most authentic spots to visit in the city. It offers live music, drinks, and dining. Located in the heart of Athens, the upper floor provides unmatched views of the Acropolis, the Roman Agora, Hadrian’s Library, and the neoclassical rooftops of Pandrosou. Exuding tranquility and decorated with historic memorabilia and folk art, Oraia Ellas has two entrances: one on Pandrosou and one on Metropoleos. Owned by Panagiotis Gerolymatos, it also serves as the Center of Greek Tradition, showcasing over 1,500 vintage advertisements and prints, reflecting both heritage and community.

In the historic center of Athens, Vrettos stands out with its colourful bottles and lights. Established in 1909 by Michael Brettos, it is the oldest distillery in Athens, originally located in Plaka. Brettos started by producing ouzo, brandy, and various liqueurs using family recipes from Smyrna. As demand grew, the distillery moved to Kallithea, and the Plaka shop became a bar and liquor store. Today, Brettos still offers ouzo, brandy, and over 35 unique liqueur flavours in its charming, historic setting. A visit to Brettos is a must, providing a timeless experience for both locals and tourists.

KOUKOUVAYA

The story started 27 years ago in Chania Crete, where the first Koukouvaya (means owl) concept desssert shop oppened, serving delicious sweets to locals and visitors. Two years ago, it landed in Athens bringing in the city its famous desserts. Taste “zoumero” (means juicy!), an original chocolate dipped cake, traditional “ekmek kadayif” (with a twist), the low fat “Meropi’s favourite” and a variety of Cretan fresh products. The tables set along the pedestrian street in front of Koukouvaya invite you to savour your dessert, coffee, or beverage while enjoying the Athenian cityscape

Info:

1 Skouze St., Monastiraki

T.: +30 210 33 18 700

Fb: Koukouvaya Desserts

Ig: koukouvaya_athens

600m / PANEPISTIMIO METRO LINE 2

Authentic Mexican Street food delights

As many beers as you can handle

TAPFIELD LOS TACOS

For the past 2.5 years, “Los Tacos” in Koukaki has been introducing us to the delights of authentic Mexican street food. Located near the Acropolis and just below Philopappos Hill, it’s the perfect spot to enjoy delicious handmade nachos with guacamole, quesadillas, burritos, tacos, and refreshing salads. Soon, we’ll also be able to try both sweet and savoury chimichangas. With its cozy vibe and vibrant decor, it promises a fun and delightful experience.

Info: 1 Orlof St., Koukaki // T.:+30 210 92 29 739

Ιg: lostacos_taqueria // Fb: Lostacos

550m / SYGGROU-FIX METRO LINE 2

Here’s the perfect spot for beer lovers! Tapfield, a beer bar (open since 2020), offers brews from small producers, microbreweries, and top craft beer makers. With 19 taps, enjoy Greek and international options. The team, including Miltos, Kostas, and Paschalis, serves delicious bar food like juicy burgers, hot dogs, and tasty sausages, all made fresh on site. Their passion shines as they even brew their own beer. What a wonderful, wonderful place!

Info: 4 Navarchou Apostoli St., Psiri // Τ.: +30 210 32 21 923

Fb: Tapfield // Ig: tapfield_bar // www.tapfield.gr

400m / MONASTIRAKI METRO LINE 1, 3

A Culinary Destination

ATENO COOK & DELI

Discover Ateno, a culinary gem transforming Athens’ food scene. Located in a restored neoclassical building on 52 Aiolou Street, Ateno redefines Greek cuisine under the guidance of renowned chef Nikos Karathanos. The menu features simple, traditional Greek ingredients, elevated to fine dining, and includes a selection of cured meats from local breeds, including black pork, perfect for sandwiches any time of day. Don’t miss the well-stocked deli with a selection of handpicked ingredients that every cook would choose for their kitchen. Open daily from early morning for breakfast & brunch until late at night, Ateno is a must-visit for food enthusiasts.

Info:

52 Aiolou & Miltiadou St., Athens

T.: +30 210 3223223

Fb: Ateno Cook & Deli // Ig: ateno.athens

600m / PANEPISTIMIO METRO LINE 2

ATHENIAN STARDUST

NATIONAL OBSERVATORY OF ATHENS

If you wonder what lies above, imagine how beautiful it would be to learn about it under the famous Attic sky. The National Observatory of Athens, founded in 1842 on the Hill of the Nymphs in Thissio, offers that opportunity. Additionally, in 1958, the Penteli Observatory (research center and observatory) was established on Mount Pentelikon in Attica. Part of the National Observatory of Athens, the Penteli Observatory is situated on the “Koufos” hill on Mount Pentelikon, at an altitude of 500 meters, near the neighbourhood of Nea Penteli.

GUIDED TOURS IN ENGLISH AT THE OBSERVATORY IN THISSIO:

Every Wednesday, Friday & Saturday

20:00 | November to March

21:00 | September, October, April 22:00 | May to August

FOR MORE INFORMATION:

www.noa.gr/en/

Seawolf for fish lovers

SEAWOLF

With a focus on high-quality ingredients, Seawolf is a restaurant specializing in premium seafood cuisine. What sets it apart is the meticulous selection of the finest ingredients for its dishes. Vegetables are sourced from small local producers around Athens, while other ingredients come from various regions across mainland and island Greece. The fish are exclusively wild-caught and change seasonally, in line with Seawolf’s green policy. Open from 17:00 to 23:00, Seawolf is the place to be for delicious recipes that highlight local, authentic, and traditional flavours.

Info:

35 Dimitrakopoulou St., Koukaki

T. +30 210 92 29 235

Fb: Seawolf Athens // Ig: seawolf_athens

Trip Advisor: Seawolf

240m / SYNGROU-FIX METRO LINE 2

Come for the view; stay for the flavours

KALISPERA

Discover Kalispera – Athenian Tapas, a stunning rooftop on the 7th floor of Utopia hotel with breathtaking views of the Acropolis. This exclusive spot serves brunch, lunch, and dinner, offering an exquisite selection of Greek Athenian Tapas crafted by Chef Konstantinos Akouros. Taste dishes that blend traditional flavours and modern flair, perfectly complemented by handcrafted cocktails featuring premium Greek spirits. For an early brunch or a romantic dinner under the stars, the rooftop of Kalispera promises an unforgettable experience. Come for the view, stay for the flavours, and create lasting memories at this unparalleled Athenian oasis.

Info:

46 Ermou St., Monastiraki | 7th Floor

T.: +30 210 32 41 814

www.kalisperaatheniantapas.gr

Fb: Kalispera Athenian Tapas

Ig: kalispera.athenian.tapas

400m / MONASTIRAKI METRO LINES 1, 3

BARTESERA:

Love at First Sight

THE REBIRTH OF ATHENIAN ARCADES

The charm of an old city like Athens lies in preserving its historical elements while adapting to modern times. This is exactly what happened with the Praxitelous arcade in the heart of the city when it was transformed into a bar and so, Bartesera was born. As one of the first bars of its kind, it sparked a trend of reimagining arcades.

Bartesera, one of the oldest all-day café bars in the historic city center, will enchant you the moment you step into its beautifully decorated arcade. Beloved by Athenians and visitors alike for its fantastic atmosphere, irresistible coffees, hot chocolates, tasty brunches, imaginative cocktails, and unique character, it’s no wonder Bartesera has been thriving for 19 years. In good times and bad, it’s always an integral part of city’s nightlife.

Info:

25, Kolokotroni St.

T.: +30 210 32 29 805

Fb: Bartesera Ig: @bartesera_

450m / PANEPISTIMIO METRO LINE 2

THE FLAVOURS

Start your day with delicious, high-quality coffee and great company at Bartesera. Renowned for its top-notch service and décor, it offers a view of the Attic sky thanks to its open roof. Savour a delicious brunch with special recipes, finger foods, lunch and dinner options, and delectable sweets. Signature cocktails are a highlight, with seasonal creations that are both delicious and imaginative!

THE DETAILS

Bartesera is the perfect spot to experience Athenian nightlife like a local. Music plays a key role, with excellent DJs and radio producers frequently changing to keep the groove going. With a mix of funk, soul, jazz, and electronica, you’ll keep coming back for more. The setting is completed by the warm and welcoming staff (yes that’s the true Greek hospitality) and atmospheric lighting. Cheers to one of the most vibrant spots from morning till night!

Great views and tasty bites!

EN AITHRIA

This vibrant, welcoming, and colorful spot is perfect for any occasion. Pulsing with funk, soul, and world music, it invites you to have an unforgettable time. The ground floor features amazing decor, the cozy 1st floor offers billiards and foosball, and the rooftop provides breathtaking views of the Acropolis and the Attic sky. It’s ideal for hanging out with friends, enjoying a special dinner, or even hosting a professional meeting. Savor endless draft beers, juicy burgers, fresh fries, salads and all kinds of creative cocktails (the Babylon Garden and Aphrodite’s Charm are a must). En Aithria Athens combines imagination, quality, and friendly prices. It’s where your senses come alive, and the fun never stops.

Info: 13 Astiggos St., Monastiraki

T.: +30 215 55 59 251

Fb: En Aithria – Acropolis

Ig: en_aithria_acropolis www.enaithria.gr

A cuisine full of creativity

KIOUZIN

Kiouzin is a restaurant with friendly and warm environment in Kolonaki area, and has a vintage feel to it. There, you will be pleasantly surprised by traditional Greek recipes with a twist! Greek PDO products, fresh ingredients, and superfoods are used to cook special Greek recipes, enhanced with fresh notes. The result is tasty compositions that will stay with you forever and will change your expectations regarding “home-made” food! You should try the slow roasted goat en papillote and the Greek salad which is a variation of choriatiki salad with cherry tomatoes and feta cheese cream in tomato gravy.

Info: 16 Lykavittou St., Kolonaki

T.: +30 2103647407, +30 6944600890

Ig: kiouzin // Fb: Kiouzin www.kiouzin.com/en

550m / PANEPISTIMIO METRO LINE 2

Authentic Greek Flavours in the Heart of the City

THE NEW ERA

Experience authentic Greek cuisine as it’s traditionally prepared at the all-new The New Era in Syntagma. Enjoy homemade, wholesome dishes crafted with care and expertise, served with a touch of elegance. From fish fillet with potato salad, delicious pasta, and original dolmades to seafood, moussaka, and assorted meats, The New Era has it all. Take advantage of their delivery service or visit their beautiful, air-conditioned indoor space or colourful courtyard, and feel the essence of Greek hospitality at its finest. Discover your new favorite spot for Greek cuisine.

Info:

30-32 Perikleous St., Syntagma

T.: +30 210 33 15 869 // +30 694 45 32 569

Ig: thenewera_athens

450m / SYNTAGMA METRO LINE 2, 3

OPEN-AIR CINEMAS DEFINE ATHENS

Open-air cinemas are a quintessential element of Athens, they define it. Due to the city’s favorable summer weather and the artistic inclination of Athenians, these cinemas likely originated before indoor theaters. Many historic open-air cinemas in the city center have been preserved, showing both contemporary and classic films. Below are a few examples. You’ll recognize them by the scent of jasmine and night-blooming flowers that fills the streets.

CINE PARIS, PLAKA

Cine Paris was established in 1920 by a Greek hairdresser who had spent several years in Paris. It has long been a cherished rooftop in the historic neighbourhood of Plaka. Over the years, it has become a symbol of Athenian life. After closing for four years for extensive restoration, it has now reopened under the careful curation of Cinobo, rejuvenated and ready to bring the greatest stories from around the world to life on its uniquely enchanting screen.

CINE THISSION, THISSIO

Cine Thission is one of the oldest open-air cinemas in Athens, established in 1935. Since then, it has operated every spring and summer nonstop, with a brief pause during the German occupation. Since 1980, it has been managed by the Maniakis family, who transformed it into a lush paradise in the heart of Athens, near the Acropolis. The family meticulously selects classic and new films, ensuring a delightful experience. Visitors can enjoy homemade sour cherry treats, handmade liqueur, and savoury snacks, all while watching movies in a charming, historic setting.

CINE DEXAMENI, KOLONAKI

Nestled between the playground of the Lycabettus Dexameni Square and the namesake café, Cine Dexameni offers a blend of tradition and charm. The ancient Hadrianic Aqueduct and Dexameni provided water to Athens until the Ottoman era, when it fell into disrepair. Restored in 1840, it continued to serve the city. The Dexameni Café, a literary hub for authors and poets like Papadiamantis and Elytis, transformed its rooftop into an open-air cinema in 1991. Today, Cine Dexameni screens high-quality films, maintaining its romantic atmosphere with jasmine, basil, and a classic snack bar.

DISCOMPALA

Find the person who claims that they don’t dance, introduce to them Discompala (Disco Ball), and they won’t be able to stay seated after that! This downtown hot spot is a modern disco, expert at getting you moving and grooving with hits from the 70s, 80s, and 90s. The dazzling lights create a magical ambiance. With friendly service, a top-notch drink selection, and themed parties, Discompala is the go-to spot for lively nights with friends.

P.S. Keep in mind that Discompala closes its doors mid August until mid September.

Info:

Open on Fridays & Saturdays

4 Delfon St., Athens

T.: +30 210 36 37 752

Ig: discompala // Fb: @discompala

500m / SYNTAGMA METRO LINE 2, 3

The perfect hangout for night owls!

AGIOS

Set within a beautifully preserved neoclassical building, with wall paintings and featuring three distinct spaces, Agios, which means “Saint” in Greek, is the ultimate haven for those who come alive after dark in the city. This lively hotspot infuses our nights with upbeat vibes and authentic old folk Greek music, creating an inviting and welcoming atmosphere. Drawing a diverse crowd, it nurtures a vibrant nocturnal community, brought together by their love for music. For a taste of Greek nightlife, Agios is the place to go.

P.S. Keep in mind that Agios is closed on Mondays and goes on vacation in August.

Info:

33 Didotou St., Kolonaki

T.: +30 210 36 47 968

Fb: @ agiosbardidotou

500m / PANEPISTIMIO METRO LINE 2

BENEATH THE ATTIC SKY

They say the sky is the same everywhere. But is it really? Let us make a distinction... Greece’s sky is a bit different. References to the Attic sky abound from antiquity to today. From sunrise to sunset, the Attic sky uniquely welcomes and showcases colours. Despite atmospheric pollution nearing dangerous levels for humans and the environment, this sky continues to offer us magical moments. It reminds us that beauty in our city could be a reality and not something fleeting. Whenever you have the chance, look up and immerse yourself in the ever-changing vast canvas above.

SkySk y S ky

HIP

KIPSELI

Kipseli holds a rich and diverse history. Following the Asia Minor Catastrophe in the early 20th century, refugees arrived in the area, leading to the construction of makeshift shacks on the western side of Pedion Areos, in Kipseli. In the decades following World War II, Kipseli flourished, becoming a vibrant hub of cosmopolitan Athenian life. Even today, it maintains its allure, exuding charm and artistic flair with its theaters, creatively decorated coffee shops, and bars. It remains a haven for artists, retaining its bohemian atmosphere, and it’s one of the first neighbourhoods you’ll explore if you’re interested in Athenian nightlife. Kipseli is definitely hip and perfectly cool.

NAMING:

Initially named “Gypséli,” one interpretation suggests that the area that is called Tourkovounia, was teeming with vultures (gipes). Tourkovounia is the highest and most extensive hillside in the central area of the Attica Basin, with an altitude of 337 meters. In antiquity, it was called Anchesmos, a name associated with the sharp shape of some of its peaks.

A LITTLE BIT OF HISTORY:

The urban development of Kipseli began in the 1930s with the construction of single-family homes and some of Athens’ first apartment buildings. Designs of newer homes and apartment buildings from 1930 onwards were influenced by modernism, Bauhaus, and Art Deco. Kipseli became a sought-after neighbourhood with numerous apartment buildings until the 1960s, catering to the middle and upper-middle class. Throughout the years it attracted renowned artists and intellectuals and served as a hub for students, adding to its dynamic social fabric. Post-war, Kipseli transformed into one of Athens’ most densely populated neighbourhoods, characterized by its unique urban atmosphere and notable neoclassical and interwar buildings.

LANDMARKS:

The centerpiece of Kipseli is the Agios Georgios Square, adorned with a Baroque-style bronze fountain, the “Fanostatis,” sculpted by A. Carrier (erected after 1900). Its resemblance to the square in Exarchia is striking. Fokionos Negri pedestrian street, stretching from Kipseli Square to Drosopoulou Street, serves as the neighbourhood’s bustling heart, pulsating with activity and community life. Don’t miss the Municipal Market of Kipseli, built in 1935, situated within the urban block defined by the pedestrian street of Fokionos Negri and the streets of Sporadon, Syrou, and Zakynthou, it has been designated as a monument by the Ministry of Culture.

Tips:

The closest metro stop is Plateia Victorias (metro line 1). From there, it’s about a 15-minute walk to Aghios Georgios square or a 6 minute ride by trolley or bus.

Kipseli maintains a dynamic neighbourhood atmosphere to this day, fostering a sense of community despite being home to diverse socioeconomic groups.

The vibrant multicultural ambiance is evident in every corner.

SPIRITED

Omonia takes its name from its central square. The whole district remains until today the vibrant heart of the city in its own unique way. Multicultural, lively, and steeped in history, it is full of cafes, shops, and stories around every corner. Once the starting and ending point of the city’s most important streets, Omonia Square has witnessed many changes but retains its spirited character. From vineyards and fig trees to bustling urban life, it has been witness to significant moments in Greek history. Today, it serves as a gathering place where the past and present blend, offering a glimpse into the soul of Athens.

OMONIA

NAMING:

Originally planned as the Square of the Palaces, Omonia Square has undergone several name changes over the years. Initially named after King Otto I of Greece, it was later renamed Omonia Square in 1862. Ironically, it became a focal point for both supporters and opponents of Otto, marking significant events in Greek history. This renaming symbolized an act of reconciliation, cementing Omonia’s place in the city’s story as a hub of unity and diversity.

A LITTLE BIT OF HISTORY:

Omonia Square underwent a transformation into a hub for entertainment and commerce, but its origins were quite different. Initially lush with greenery, ideal for leisurely strolls, it featured vineyards, fig trees, and animal pens. As time went on, cafes, underground taverns, hotels, and theaters emerged. In the early 20th century, the square was bustling with activity, becoming one of the liveliest spots in the capital. The military band entertained Athenians every Thursday and Sunday, circus performances took place until 1910, and orators would stand there, commenting on current events for passersby. Outdoor photographers, chestnut vendors, and shoeshine boys added to the scene.

LANDMARKS:

Omonia Square, the heart of Athens, is steeped in rich history and dotted with landmarks. From the iconic Neon Cafe, established in 1920, to the twin hotels Bagkeion and Megas Alexandros, built by Ernesto Chiller in the 1880s and left abandoned since the 1960s, the square echoes with stories of the past.

Tips:

You can arrive by metro (metro lines 1 & 2)

Be cautious during the late hours of the night; some streets can be shady.

As you descend Athinas Street, the Acropolis gradually dominates the horizon, immersing you in the atmosphere of old commercial Athens. Varvakeios Market, with its picturesque meat and fish stalls, lies just below Athens City Hall.

UNFORGETTABLE

Kerameikos is a vibrant neighbourhood located near the archaeological site of Kerameikos. Steeped in history and culture, this area showcases a blend of ancient relics and neoclassical architecture, reflecting its significance in ancient Athenian life.

Today, the neighbourhood hosts various museums, including the Museum of Islamic Art, the Beth Shalom Synagogue, and the Center for Modern Ceramics Studies, attracting visitors with its rich heritage and cultural offerings.

KERAMEIKOS

NAMING:

The name Kerameikos derives from its association with pottery workshops that flourished along the banks of the Eridanos River. Alternatively, some attribute the name to Keramos, the mythical son of Dionysus and Ariadne, revered as the patron of potters. This neighbourhood, with its rich history dating back to ancient times, continues to honor its cultural legacy through its archaeological sites, museums, and architectural wonders.

A LITTLE BIT OF HISTORY:

Kerameikos encompasses the area surrounding the archaeological site of Kerameikos. The region’s rich history is intertwined with ancient Athenian life and craftsmanship, still evident to this day. A big part of it all is attributed to the gasworks factory. Additionally, it boasts numerous theaters, bars, live stages, and eateries, making it a fantastic meeting point and a must-visit destination during your time here.

LANDMARKS:

The Gazi district, neighboring Kerameikos, is situated west of the gasworks factory, established in 1857 by a French company, between Piraeus and Constantinople streets. It emerged in the late 19th century as a notably impoverished working-class neighbourhood, characterized by challenging living conditions and prevalent health concerns. Nowadays, the expansive Technopolis, a 30-acre cultural hub dedicated to the memory of Manos Hadjidakis, one of the most important music composers, hosts various events and is a must-visit destination. From great concerts to a variety of festivities, there’s something to captivate every visitor.

Tips:

You can reach Kerameikos via Metro Line 3, at the station bearing the same name.

Near Kerameikos lies the district of Kolonos, home to the renowned Akadimia Platonos Park—a wonderful spot to relax or have a pic nic with your friends.

The entrance to the archaeological site of Kerameikos, which covers approximately 45 acres, is located on Ermou Street.

TIMELESS PAGRATI

Pagrati is one of those neighbourhoods in Athens that has rightfully earned the titles of “historic”, “timeless”, and “classic”. In Pagrati, you can trace the city’s evolution through the centuries. These traces are not only visible in its buildings but also in its atmosphere: majestic, bustling, both bright and dark, distinctly urban yet authentically Athenian.

Taking a stroll through Pagrati, you’ll encounter neoclassical buildings blending with interwar-era apartment blocks, green spaces intertwining with boulevards and narrow sidewalks, art spaces and museums nestled among shops of all kinds, uphill streets meeting downhill ones. It’s like glimpsing through a train window into real life in this vibrant corner of Athens—a city within the city.

NAMING:

The name “Pagrati” is derived from the sanctuary of Hercules that once stood at the intersection of today’s Vas. Konstantinou and Vas. Georgiou B’ streets. Discovered in 1953 during archaeological excavations by Yiannis Miliadis, the sanctuary gives roots to the area’s name. In the 19th century, the area was known as “Vatrachonisi” (Frog Island) due to a small island formed in the Ilissos River inhabited by numerous frogs. Another well-known nickname was “Kafe Tsourapi,” stemming from a popular “kafeneio” during the Ottoman period, where anti-monarchists gathered. It earned its name because the owner’s wife kept watch for the authorities while knitting a sock (tsourapi).

A LITTLE BIT OF HISTORY:

The neighbourhood experienced significant growth during the Interwar period, coinciding with the general progress of urbanization and the rapid expansion of the capital city because of the arrival of refugees in 1922. The post-war development during the period of 1950-1970, alongside other large and densely populated neighbourhoods of Athens, changed the character of the area into a predominantly urban one, attracting upper and middle-class social strata.

LANDMARKS:

Pagrati, being a typical example of an urban metropolis, stands out for many art and historical places. Visit Vasilis and Eliza Goulandris Foundation, Byzantine and Christian Museum but make sure you will visit The First Cemetery of Athens, which is the oldest the city. It is very important landmark, not only because many distinguished Greeks are buried there, but also from a historical and artistic perspective, as it includes valuable sculptures. Plus, at the edge of the neighbourhood lies the Panathenaic Stadium.

Tips:

Pagrati is only served by the Evangelismos metro station (metro line 3). From there, you’ll have to walk, but there are also many buses and trolleys traversing its streets.

Think twice before driving there, as the neighbourhood suffers from a serious shortage of parking spaces.

On Ymittou Street, near Pagrati Square, stands Athens’ oldest cinema, the Cine Palace, which opened its doors in 1925.

REBELLIOUS

Since its creation, this area has been a hub for both renowned and lesser-known figures in the arts and intellect. It has strong ties to significant historical events, such as the uprising of Polytechneio, which has left an unforgettable mark in the city. Exarchia stands as a place of free expression and is one of the most vibrant and colourful neighbourhoods in Athens. It hosts numerous places for political groups, serving as a focal point for progressive individuals advocating for change. Here, music, graffiti, the scent of paper from its many bookstores, publishing houses, and printing shops, along with its diverse people, come together, painting the romantic yet fierce essence of Exarchia. Over time, many of these distinctive characteristics have begun to fade notably due to tourism and the influx of new-age shops. Nevertheless, it remains a district that embraces diversity and manifests an alternative way of life.

EXARCHIA

NAMING:

Exarchia derives its name from Vasilis Exarchos, a grocer from Epirus, whose grocery store stood at the corner of Themistokleous and Solomou streets. In his establishment, there was not only a bakery and a kitchen, which he rented out, but also a general store where he himself worked. His reputation spread across the city, and the neighbourhood adopted his name, though formerly known as Pytharadika.

A LITTLE BIT OF HISTORY:

The National Technical University of Athens (Polytechneio) was established in 1873 and it is Greece’s oldest technical institution, still located in the same building on Patision Street. It played a crucial role in the downfall of the dictatorship in 1973, when students occupied the school building on November 14, 1973. The occupation quickly garnered support from thousands of citizens, expressing their opposition to the dictatorship. Demonstrations and events against the regime ensued. The occupation concluded with tanks entering the university courtyard, demolishing the central entrance of the building on Patision Street, resulting in serious fatalities (more than 60 people were killed by the authorities). The events of Polytechneio marked the beginning of the end for Greece’s seven-year dictatorship.

LANDMARKS:

Exarchia Square serves as the central hub of the Exarchia area. Prior to the construction of the METRO station, it had over 100 trees and featured a brass lantern at its center—a creation by a French sculptor depicting three winged Cupids, serving as a defining landmark for the square and Exarchia as a whole. Despite its charm, the square has faced various challenges, including issues like drug trafficking, which local committees and residents have been actively addressing. In recent years, and before its encirclement by sheets of metal for the construction of the station, the square was much more humane. Nevertheless, it has always remained a pivotal point within the neighbourhood. Today the resistance from residents, neighbourhood groups, citizens, and academics regarding the station’s construction at this site has been nonstop, since many believe it’s a deliberate attempt to alter the neighbourhood’s character and suppress its activist and libertarian history.

Tips:

You can access Exarchia via metro lines 1, 2, and 3, as well as several buses and trolleybuses that traverse Alexandras Avenue, Patision Avenue, and even Exarchia itself.

Make sure to explore the array of bars that Exarchia has to offer, many of which are rich in history!

Take a stroll through Navarinou Park to witness how residents have successfully preserved an empty space from being turned into a parking lot and instead transformed it into a beautiful park!

HISTORIC

Petralona is a neighbourhood located in the heart of Athens. Athenians often divide the area into Ano (upper) and Kato (lower) Petralona. Ano Petralona encompasses the region between Philopappos Hill and the railway, while Kato Petralona extends from the railway to Piraos Street. Additionally, a small neighbourhood called Assyrmatos or Attaliotika is sometimes considered part of Ano Petralona, situated on the western slopes of Philopappos Hill. Asyrmatos derives its name from a transmitting antenna of the Greek Navy (‘asyrmatos’ means ‘wireless’ in Greek). This area was once an old quarry where refugees from Asia Minor settled following the Asia Minor Disaster.

PETRALONA

NAMING:

Petralona derives its name from the Greek words ‘Petrina Alonia,’ meaning ‘stone threshing floors,’ which were once prevalent in the area for threshing grain prior to urbanization. Additionally, the area was formerly known as Katsikadika, owing to the presence of goat herders who supplied milk to the locals. However, the prohibition of goats within the city of Athens in February 1925 led to the adoption of the current name for the area.

A LITTLE BIT OF HISTORY:

The neighbourhood of Petralona is a diverse and vibrant district in Athens with a rich history and cultural heritage. During the Ottoman era, Petralona was a rural area with vineyards and agricultural fields. With time, Petralona has developed into a densely populated neighbourhood enriched with diverse cultural and social elements. Notably, its multicultural ambiance attracts residents from various nationalities and cultures. Petralona is known for its traditional cafes and diverse culinary scene, boasting a multitude of taverns and restaurants serving both traditional and international cuisines.

LANDMARKS:

The ‘Asyrmatou Apartment Building’ situated on Stesichorou Street and erected in 1967 based on plans by architect Elli Vasilikioti, was designed to provide housing for low-income families. On Apolloniou Street stands the chapel of ‘Agia Sotira,’ constructed by refugees from Attaleia after 1922. The 77th Municipal School, erected in 1920 at the corner of Dimofontos and Hyperionos Streets, remains abandoned since the 1999 earthquake. Notably, at the intersection of Antaiou and Gennaiou Kolokotroni Streets, a monumental spring marks the location of the western gate of the ancient municipality of Koile.

Tips:

You can reach Petralona via Athens Metro Line 1, and it’s also not far from Kerameikos Metro Station (Line 3 - Blue).

Petralona hosts the football club Petralona F.C., founded in 1983 when the two local clubs AO Petralona and GS Petralona merged.

The most famous square of the neighbourhood is the Merkouri Square, full of choices for coffee, lunch, or dinner.

STRAIGHT-FORWARD

Patisia stretches approximately 3.5 to 5 kilometers north of the historic center. It belongs to the Municipality of Athens, occupying its northern end. In the past, during 19th century, Patisia was a suburban area beyond the capital’s limits, frequented by Athenians for walks and excursions. Notably, in the 1879 census, it had only 847 permanent residents. Today, Patisia is a densely populated district, an integral part of Athens’ central urban landscape. It is divided into Upper (Ano) Patisia and Lower (Kato) Patisia. Patisia has given its name to one of the major roads of Athens, Patision Street.

PATISIA

NAMING:

According to Kostas Biris, an architect, urban planner, and folklorist, the name “Patisia” originates from the adverbial form “Vatisi” of the ancient Greek Demos (Municipality) Vatis. However, Dimitrios Kambouroglou, a former journalist and academic, argues that Patisia is named after an Ottoman official during the Ottoman rule, called Patis aga. Additionally, there’s a popular belief suggesting that if someone wished to go from the city center to this rural area, they were advised to “pate isia,” meaning “go straight.”

A LITTLE BIT OF HISTORY:

In earlier times, Patisia was known as “Paradisia” (meaning heavenly) due to its beautiful gardens filled with dense cypress groves. With plentiful water, abundant greenery, and renowned tomato cultivations in numerous orchards, later expanded to include potatoes, it was an idyllic place to live. The landscape of Patisia underwent significant changes during the Belle Époque period (1880-1910) and particularly during the subsequent interwar period (19101940). Patisia underwent a transformation, with the addition of taverns, beer gardens, entertainment venues, and cinemas, while beautification projects and the creation of squares enhanced the previously indifferent scenery of Patision Street, the main road of Patisia.

LANDMARKS:

Because of its age, the neighbourhood boasts characteristics from various decades, primarily in architecture. You’ll find a mix of Neoclassical, Bauhaus, and mansion styles, alongside apartment buildings from the ‘70s, and more. Notably, there’s the neo-Gothic Tower on Thiras Street, a rare sight in Athens and the only surviving example, numerous cinemas and theaters, and Villa Klonaridis within the park of the same name. However, one could argue that the defining landmark is Patision Street, offering a vivid snapshot of Athens’ identity.

Tips:

There are 4 metro stations that serve the area of Patisia: Attiki, Kato Patisia, Agios Nikolaos, and Ano Patisia (Metro Line 1). Additionally, numerous trolleys and buses traverse Patision Street.

Patision Street stands as Athens’ most emblematic thoroughfare, encapsulating the city’s development. As you travel along its 4.6 kilometers, the scenery shifts, leading to a change in the character of the various neighbourhoods as well.

The view of Acropolis from Patision Street is marvelous.

PATISIA

GIA DES p. 102

MARTINIS p. 115

PAGRATI

MAGEMENOS AVLOS p. 103

PARROT BAR p. 106

AEROSTATO CAFÉ p. 107

VIEJO CAFÉ BISTRO p. 110

MARABOO p. 111

ARBARORIZA p. 117

SOUSOU p. 127

METAXOURGHIO

TO AVGO TOU KOKKORA p. 103

ASTARI p. 121

TA KANARIA p. 121

ALEXANDER THE GREAT p. 125

KIPSELI

NOSTIMIES TIS MAIRIS p. 105

MORNING SWEETIE p. 107

KYVELI p. 108

KYPSELAKI p. 118

CAFÉ MONTREAL p. 127

VICTORIA

KROUSKAS RESTAURANT p. 105

PETEK PATISSERIE p. 119

ILISIA

LOT 51 p. 107

EXARCHIA

INTRIGA p. 106

MEKOURASAN p. 111

WHITE TURTLE p. 113

ACHILLEAS VERGINA p. 123

ROZALIA p. 125

DI LIEN p. 127

OMONIA

TERRA FRESH p. 109

TRATA p. 115

DELICIOUS SOUVLAKI p. 123

METS

ASTERISQUE* p. 111

PETRALONA

PLATEIA p. 114

PLATEIA ELEFTHERIAS

EM CAFÉ p. 119

ALAMPEIS p. 119

FEATURED IN SKY

3 LEGENDARY SPOTS IN PATISION

KOKETTA

The shop opened in 1947. It’s the go-to store for sewing supplies, as it was the first organized shop in the field. No seamstress or anyone interested in sewing has failed to walk through its doors. Additionally, it can be described as a “button museum,” with boxes stacked to the ceiling containing thousands of buttons made from mother-of-pearl, bone, metal, plastic, and painted, ranging from vintage to modern designs.

HARA

Hara opened in 1969. It brought traditional ice creams from Constantinople to Patision Street, making it a landmark in all of Athens. The magic of Hara is that it has managed to keep most of its elements, both in flavours and ambiance, unchanged over time. The modern touches are minimal, making it rightfully known as the most cult patisserie in Athens with the tastiest ice cream.

AU REVOIR

Opened in 1957, this legendary bar in Athens has even served Frank Sinatra! The beautiful bar on Patision Street is one of the first bars in Athens, teaching the city how to enjoy nightlife. With its amazing aesthetics, carefully selected music, and authentic retro decor, everything at Au Revoir has remained unchanged since then, and we hope it stays that way forever.

Simple luxury

GIA DES

In the neighbourhood of Patisia, you will find a local’s favorite restaurant, Gia Des – in Greek, means “come and see.” Truly, the restaurant of chef Yiannis Karipidis is a must-visit. Yiannis serves his own exemplary recipes, which are constantly updated and inspired by both Mediterranean and international cuisine. With multicoloured, delicious, high-quality ingredients and authentic Greek hospitality, Gia Des offers everything you need for a rich, value-for-money dinner. Additionally, you have the option of vegetarian plates too. During summer, you can enjoy your meal outdoors, after a long walk in Patisia.

Info: 65, Halepa St., Patisia T.: +30 211 21 40 158 // Ig: gia_des

900m / ANO PATISIA METRO LINE 1

An experience of the senses

MAGEMENOS AVLOS TO AVGO TOU KOKKORA

In the beautiful neighbourhood of Pagrati there is a legendary restaurant, open since 1961, which is deeply intertwined with the history of Athens. Many famous artists and politicians used to dine in Magemenos Avlos (meaning enchanted flute). Since then, the atmosphere and the quality of the services remained unalterable. You can have the chance to try traditional Greek and mediterranean recipes while enjoying mellow live music in its eclectic indoor space or the verdant courtyard. Seize the opportunity to live enchanted moments!

Info:

4 Aminta St., Pagrati // T.: +30 21 0722 3195 Ig: magemenosavlosrestaurant www.magemenosavlos.com

Since 1982, To Avgo tou Kokora (meaning ‘The egg of the rooster’) has been a beloved spot for Athenians. Initially in Kipseli and now in Metaxourghio, in a historic building with a beautiful courtyard which is decorated with colourful details, stone walls, and a lot of greenery, this restaurant is unique. It offers a perfect setting for gatherings all year-round and a great variety of affordable, delicious food. Here you can taste some of the most beloved traditional dishes. Don’t miss the chance to dine at this iconic restaurant!

Info: 46 Leonidou & Milerou St., Metaxourghio Τ.: 217 70 50 103 // Fb: @toaugotoukokkora www.toavgotoukokkora.gr

HOLY SIDE OF THE CITY

Byzantine or modern, impressive or modest, many churches in Athens have unique history and charm, captivating not only the people of faith but everyone. Here are three churches worth visiting during your city strolls.

HOLY CHURCH OF AGIOI PANTES

Tucked away in Ampelokipi’s maze of apartments, Agioi Pantes is a hidden Byzantine treasure from the 11th century. Once the heart of a monastery, it stands on the ruins of an ancient temple dedicated to Aphrodite, whose statue was crafted by Phidias’ famous student, Alcamenes. Back in the day, the area was known as “gardens,” home to Aphrodite’s sacred spring. Discover this little-known gem and step back in time!

39 Tsocha St., Ampelokipi

HOLY CHURCH OF SAINT GEORGE “OMORPHOKKLESIA”

Nestled in Galatsi, the Holy Church of Saint George, known as Omorphokklesia, is a fascinating blend of history and art. Built from the remnants of an early Christian temple and ancient Greek structures, the church dates back to the 12th century. It’s famous for its stunning frescoes from the late 13th century, showcasing scenes from the life of Saint George, apostles, prophets, and a powerful depiction of Pantocrator in the dome. Discover the blend of Byzantine elegance and artistic brilliance that has captivated scholars and artists alike!

Veikou Av., Galatsi

HOLY CHURCH OF SAINT NICHOLAS AT PEFKAKIA

Once a hidden gem on Lycabettus’ slopes, Holy Church of Saint Nicholas at Pefkakia blossomed in the late 1880s. In 1887, locals built a charming little church, and by 1889, Prince Nicholas laid the cornerstone for a grander version. Designed by Major General Gerasimos Metaxas, it quickly became a community hub. Imagine women fetching water from St. Nicholas’ well and lovebirds nestled among the pines—a slice of idyllic Athens history!

38 Asklipiou St., Exarchia

For tasty summer meals

NOSTIMIES TIS MAIRIS

Saint George’s Square in Kipseli is full of people and the scents of well-cooked homemade dishes. Mary’s tables, a classic tradition, wait for us with all kinds of Greek delights: appetizers (mezedes), pies, daily specials, tradiotional dishes, fried treats, soups, and salads. Since 1994, Mary’s eatery (maghirio) has been one of the most beloved ones among locals, because of its fresh ingredients, hearty portions, and great distillates. These sunny days invite us to enjoy a laid-back ambiance at Mary’s. If you haven’t yet tasted her meatballs, pastitsio, or fresh pies, you’re missing out on something truly special.

Info:

2-4 Idras St., Kipseli

Τ.: +30 210 82 29 236

Fb: @OiNostimiesTesMaires

Ig: oi_nostimies_tis_mairis

900m / VICTORIA METRO LINE 1

It feels like home

KROUSKAS RESTAURANT

Since 1972, Krouskas Restaurant has been a cherished family establishment at Victoria Square in Athens. Renowned for its authentic Greek cuisine, it offers daily homemade specials like moussakas, pastitsio, fresh salads, spanakorizo, briam, and more. Whether you prefer dining in for a cozy atmosphere or opting for takeout, their menu, updated daily on Facebook, ensures quality meals crafted with the finest ingredients, all cooked in a way that bring a feeling of home. Don’t miss out on their traditional dishes and warm hospitality that have made them a favorite among Athenians for decades.

Info:

88 Aristotelous St., Victoria Square

Τ.: +30 210 82 31 465

Fb: krouskasrestaurant

160m / VICTORIA METRO LINE 1

SCULPTURES IN THE CITY

WHERE:

FOKIONOS NEGRI

PEDESTRIAN AREA

The Dog of Fokionos Negri, or as it’s officially known, “The Hound”, was created in 1940 by the sculptor Euripides Vavouris. Made of marble, it measures 1.65 meters in length. It’s a landmark and a meeting point along the pedestrian street. The sculpture stands out for its simplicity and how such an everyday subject can capture so much attention.

WHERE: VICTORIA SQUARE

A sculptural ensemble titled “Theseus Saving Hippodameia” is considered one of the most significant outdoor sculptures of the 20th century in Athens. The sculpture was crafted in Berlin in 1906 by the German sculptor Johannes Pfuhl and was manufactured in the early 20th century, in 1908, from galvanized bronze in a factory in Germany. It depicts the hero Theseus, who, according to Greek mythology, saves the beautiful Hippodameia, wife of the Lapith king Peirithous, from the intoxicated Centaur Eurytion.

Cocktails in the City

PARROT BAR

Authentically Athenian, it introduces us to the outings of the city’s modern people. Colourful and cheerful, Parrot bar fills our evenings and nights with refreshing cocktails! The signature – and not only – choices arrive at our table, crafted by Parrot’s team, based on Greek products and spirits. As for the music, it changes according to the mood and the time of day. Cheers!

Info:

7 Timotheou St., Pagrati

T.: +30 210 82 11 800 // Ig: parot_bar

1,2km / EVANGELISMOS METRO LINE 3

Welcome the Athenian intrigue

INTRIGA

The oldest bar in the area and one of the oldest in Athens, Intriga has been serving high quality coffees, drinks and cocktails since 1981, retaining its authentic character. Feel the vibes of notorious Exarchia, while tasting a wide variety of beers, starting with Guinness draught and working through all the way to international and Greek crafted ones by microbreweries.

Info:

60 Dervenion St., Exarchia // T.: +30 210 33 00 936 Fb: Intriga Cafe Bar // Ig: intriga_cafe_bar

900m / OMONIA METRO LINE 1,2

A hip hub in Brazil Square

LOT 51

Cool and stylish, Lot 51 , is an Athenian gem, renowned for its exceptional coffees (from single origins to specialty blends, all courtesy of June Coffee Roasters), tasty brunch menu, handcrafted pizzas, and its own spin on a “tropical” and fruity session IPA beer. Plus, it’s the perfect spot to enjoy cocktails with friends. It’s truly one of the city’s hypest hangouts!

Info:

24Β Papadiamantopoulou St. // T.: 211 11 55 024

Ig: lot.51 // Fb: LOT51 // www.lot51.gr

280m / Megaro Mousikis METRO LINE 3

The perfect blend

MORNING SWEETIE

A cozy, colourful spot in Kipseli that smells like coffee and good vibes. At Morning Sweetie you’ll find the great Buna blend from M.O.C. and a constantly updated list of single-origin options. Enjoy the tastiest snacks and unique brunch items from the on-site bakery, including layer cakes, American cheesecakes, omelette sandwiches, and more. Don’t forget about their delivery service!

Info:

13 Zakinthou St., Kipseli // Τ.: 211 73 54 924

Ig: @themorningsweetie // www.morningsweetie.gr

1,3km / Victoria METRO LINE 1

A hot air balloon flying above Athens...

AEROSTATO CAFÉ

Aerostato Café, which means “hot air balloon,” is nestled in the verdant Proskopon Square, one of the most charming and renowned squares in the Pagrati neighbourhood. This jazz cafe-bar transports you to the ambiance of a retro French bistro. Here, you can savour your coffee or drink while jazz, swing, and blues music envelops the space. Despite being just a breath away from busy Vasileos Konstantinou Avenue, it retains a peaceful atmosphere and local charm.

Info:

4 Ptolemeon St., Pagrati

T.: +30 21 0724 1116

Ig: aerostatocafe // Fb: @CafeAerostato

Eat like a local

KYVELI

In the charming square of Agios Georgios in beautiful Kipseli, you’ll find Kyveli, an excellent choice for a delightful meal in the city. It’s a spot largely unknown to tourists but popular among locals, and you’ll soon see why. Everything here is top-quality, hearty, and original. The tables in the square are simply charming. Chef Giorgos Kontas’s exquisite cuisine, along with the polite and always-smiling team, makes every moment memorable. Be sure to try the appetizers and grilled meats. For a refreshing summer option, go for the Popeye & Swee’Pea salad (with rocket, tender spinach, chicken fillet, and a carob syrup vinaigrette) or the Kyveli salad (with fresh greens, grilled manouri cheese, and a honey-orange sauce). Don’t miss out on the indulgent desserts, like the creamy Catalana or the rich chocolate terrine. Whether dining in or taking out, Kyveli is the perfect summer escape.

Info:

15 Eptanisou St. ß(Agiou Georgiou Square), Kipseli // T.: 210 82 19 406 // www.kybeli.gr

Fb: @kivelirest // Ig: kyveli_Kipseli

Order online: wolt, efood, box

900m / VICTORIA METRO LINE 1

DID YOU KNOW THAT...

In Kipseli, the pedestrian-friendly and famous Fokionos Negri Street was once the Levídis stream. Until the street was built in 1930, the Great Fountain was located in the stream, supplying water to the water sellers.

Omonia Square has been transformed so many times that it was once round, then square, and then round again. Today, different generations of Athenians remember different versions of Omonia square they experienced.

In Kerameikos, there was a “hill” called “Stahtothiki.” It was a large mound of ash from the remains of soap factories—Athens’ soaps were very famous. The hill stood there until the 19th century. On this “hill”, Angelos Gerontas addressed the newlyweds King Otto and Queen Amalia in 1837.

In Exarchia, at the junction of Solonos and Mavromichali streets, stands the old Chemistry building, designed by Ernst Ziller. Linked to many historic events in Athens and Greece (such as the Asia Minor Catastrophe and the German Occupation), it still operates despite its age and has been declared been put under architectural preservation.

The Carnival of Athens in the late 19th and early 20th century was taking place in Petralona!

On Syngrou Avenue, specifically at the Church of Agios Sostis, an assassination attempt on King George I took place as he returned from Phaleron by carriage on February 14, 1898.

Elegance & tasteness

VIEJO CAFÉ BISTRO

A French bistro in Pagrati has won us over with its carefully crafted coffees, imaginative cocktails, and gourmet dishes. Viejo bistro seamlessly combines retro decor with a modern vibe. With its plants and vintage furniture, complemented by the relaxing music and a cozy inner courtyard, it is the ideal spot for our summer get-togethers. There is a unique brunch menu, but also delicious Italian-style pizzas and pasta. Don’t forget to indulge in their tasty desserts— they’ll add a sweet touch to your day.

Info:

128 Ymittou St., Pagrati

T.: +30 210 75 26 260

Fb & Ig: Viejo Bistro

1,3km / EVANGELISMOS METRO LINE 3

Greek-style croissants

MEKOURASAN

With an imaginative name (an anagram of the word “croissant” that means “they have tired me out” in Greek), this shop offers many flavours of handmade croissants, a variety of savoury brioches, soft cookies, and a selection of baked treats. Everything is made in-house and can be paired with single-origin coffee or juice. You can enjoy them to-go or via delivery!

Info:

215 Ippokratous St., Exarchia

T.: +30 213 04 80 265 | Ig: Mekourasan

850 m / AMBELOKIPI / METRO LINE 3

Natural ice cream, made with love

MARABOO

Info: 17 Archelaou St., Pagrati

Τ.: +30 210 72 47 037 marabooicecream.gr

Fb: Maraboo Ice Cream Ig: marabooicecream

650m / EVANGELISMOS METRO LINE 3

Maraboo has been treating us to delicious, all-natural, preservative-free ice creams with imaginative and classic flavours! From black beer and coconut & jasmine to the renowned classic pistacchio, freshness is guaranteed daily. Vicky and Igor, Maraboo’s team, ensure eco-consciousness, and craft both milkbased and vegan treats (they even cater to canine cravings). Indulge in a true taste of summer at Maraboo!

A gluten-free paradise

ASTERISQUE*

Imagine a place where you can enjoy baked goods without worrying about the gluten intake. The owner, Astero (the brand name derives from her own name), decided to open a bakery where you don’t need to ask if the sandwich you want to buy is gluten-free, because everything in Asterisque* is! This corner shop offers fresh-baked bread, cakes, and a wide variety of sweet and savoury treats, not only for those with gluten intolerance or sensitivity... You wonder why? Because all products here are extra tasty!

Info: 2 Harvouri St., Mets

T.: +30 210 9241 137 Ig: asterisquethebakery

700m / ACROPOLISMETRO LINE 2

PARKS AND THE PEOPLE THE STRUGGLES BEHIND TWO PARKS

SELF-MANAGED NAVARINOU PARK (EXARCHIA)

For many years, this area was rented out as a parking lot, basically, until the end of 2008, when the lease expired, and discussions about building offices for a state agency resurfaced. At that point, the Exarchia Residents Initiative, along with other citizen movements, occupied the space and started a campaign in Exarchia to transform it into a green space. The main characteristic was the collective work and contribution of the participants who believed in the project from the beginning and set the operating terms themselves, staying away from state, municipal, or private entities. Gradually, thanks to the awareness and growing support of the community, the plot was transformed from a parking lot into a park, addressing the urgent need for a green and recreational space in the dence building architecture that characterizes Athens’ city center. In 2018, in an assembly, it was decided to convert the park into a playground, thus addressing the real issues of the area, which the state evidently did not want to solve, as Exarchia had no playground! The funds for all this came from people’s contributions through campaigns, either by selling coupons or via the Internet.

SELF-MANAGED PARK AT KYPROU & PATISION (PATISIA)

On January 26, 2009, municipal crews of Athens began redeveloping this park. The playground, seats, and water supply system were removed as the area was intended to be given to a private parking company. The residents’ mobilization was immediate and managed to stop the creation of the parking lot. Supporters and residents gathered, started assemblies, and informed the neighbourhood. Eventually, they planted over 150 trees and shrubs. The area began to come to life again. The residents take care of the landscaping, repair the lighting, and fix any damage to the playground on their own expenses. Various activities are held in the space, catering to a wide audience, with some characteristic examples being puppet shows and Karagiozis (shadow theater), collective kitchens, and more. Interestingly, the residents, through their actions, managed to cancel the parking lot not only practically but also institutionally. A decision from the Administrative Court of Appeals annulled the construction of the parking lot in the area, and the Decentralized Administration of Attica declared the municipal land reforestable.

A

summer coffee experience

WHITE TURTLE

Coffee for Stelios and his team at White Turtle is more than just a beverage—it’s an art form. They offer a delightful experience with coffees sourced from the finest varieties, prepared meticulously, and served in exquisite ceramic cups decorated with their logo, always accompanied by a smile and attention to detail. Plus, they have some snacks you should definitely try! Their special corner, across the road from the School of Architecture, enjoys a gentle summer breeze, making it perfect for leisurely afternoons with friends or even some laptop work. The relaxed atmosphere and hip vibe are sure to win you over. At White Turtle, you’ll discover an unforgettable summer coffee experience.

Info:

43 Stournari St., Exarchia

T.: +30 210 33 00 030

Fb: whiteturtlecoffeehouse

Ig: whiteturtlecoffeehouse

600m / OMONIA METRO LINE 1

THE ANCIENT CEMETERY OF KERAMEIKOS

During the construction of the Athens metro in 1992, workers stumbled upon thousands of graves near the location where Kerameikos station was planned. This remarkable discovery halted construction for five years as archaeologists uncovered 1,200 burials dating from 7th century BC to Roman times. Due to its historical significance, the station was eventually relocated to Gazi.

Kerameikos, a notable landmark in Athens ,bordered by Ermou, Piraeus, and Asomaton streets, takes its name from the potters (Kerameis) who worked with the clay-rich soils along the river Eridanos. Frequent flooding made the area perfect for pottery and later, as it was unsuitable for habitation, for a burial ground, leading to the establishment of the most important cemetery in ancient Athens. It was here that Pericles delivered his famous Funeral Oration for the fallen Athenians of the Peloponnesian War.

Key monuments include the Pompeion, a large 5th-century BC building used for storing items for the Panathenaic procession, and notable funerary stelae like the stele of Hegeso and the marble bull in Dionysios’ enclosure. A 4th-century BC fountain near the Dipylon Gate provided water to residents and travelers.

Discoveries from the Kerameikos site are displayed in the Kerameikos Museum and the National Archaeological Museum, highlighting the site’s historical importance.

PLATEIA

In a traditional Athenian neighbourhood, you’ll discover Plateia (meaning “square”), a restaurant well-known for its exceptional flavours, high quality, and reasonable prices. Plateia serves authentic Greek dishes, just like Greek mothers make. The menu changes with the seasons, using only the freshest ingredients. Gather your friends and savour the warmth of Greek hospitality at tables overlooking Merkouri Square, enjoying Greek spirits and delectable homemade meals.

Info:

3 Deinocharous St., Ano Petralona T.: +30 210 3420 705

370m / PETRALONA METRO LINE 1

Fresh fish in the city center

TRATA

“Trata” stands for thr small fishing boat that fishermen use to bring their fresh fish ashore. And there couldn’t be a more fitting name for this restaurant right in the heart of Athens. At “Trata”, the gastronomic universe takes you on a journey to the Greek sea with fish recipes for gourmet lovers. Mouthwatering seafood pasta, prawn-stuffed cabbage rolls, spit-roasted calamari with black tarama mousse, spit-roasted grouper with sautéed greens, are some of the purely Greek recipes that you must try, beyond the fresh fish! Accompany your meal with Greek spirits.

Info:

8 Themistokleous St. & 9 Nikitara St., Athens Τ.: +30 210 38 38 531

Ig: trata_seafood www.athenstrata.gr

240m / OMONIA METRO LINE 1, 2

A timeless culinary gem in Patisia

MARTINIS

Discover a nearly century-old treasure in the heart of the Patisia neighbourhood at Martinis restaurant. Since 1969, this beloved eatery has been serving traditional Greek flavours crafted from the finest ingredients. What began as a simple grill house has evolved into a culinary haven that remains true to its roots. Indulge in the exceptional meats that Martinis is known for. In the charming, blossoming garden, a picturesque setting awaits you, perfect for enjoying a sumptuous meal. Delight in a variety of appetizers, fresh salads, hearty stews, vegetable dishes, legumes, fish, and an array of grilled and fried specialties.

Info:

289 Patision St., Patisia T. +30 210 21 11 063

Ig: martiniskouzina.gr

800m / KATO PATISIA METRO LINE 1

GREEN OASIS IN THE CITYSCAPE

PEDION AREOS

The largest park in Athens (approximately 320 acres). Its main entrance is at the intersection of Alexandras and Mavromichali streets, but there are entrances on other streets surrounding the park. Inside Pedion tou Areos, you’ll find many different types of trees with labels indicating their species and names, as well as sculptures that reference significant moments in Greek history. It has been a famous walking area since the 19th century, a characteristic it maintains to this day. Its shady spots offer cool relief during the hot Athenian summer, and it’s truly unfortunate that in recent years it closes during heatwaves to prevent fires. It’s one of the few oases in the city, and due to its size and dense vegetation, you can easily forget where you are. Beyond being a place for socializing and relaxation, it’s also popular for exercise.

Green spaces within cities are their lifeblood. These are the places where people can reconnect with nature, take walks, exercise, sit on the grass or a bench to read or relax. Here, the noise of the city fades away, and you can hear the birds. Parks must be preserved as treasures. We need them more than we realize.

ALSOS PAGRATIOU

Covering about 30 acres, Alsos Pagratiou is another “green lung” in the city. Its entrances are located on Eftychidou Street and at the intersection of Eftychidou and Spyrou Merkouri streets. In 2008, the then-mayor of Athens proposed a plan for the park that included the construction of a theater, auxiliary facilities, and a caf`e–something that would have led to the cutting of hundreds of trees and the destruction of much of the vegetation.

Residents opposed the mayor’s plan and formed the “Alsos Pagratiou Assembly”, which took active measures. Thanks to citizen mobilization and the support of municipal council members, the laws protecting Alsos Pagratiou as a unique ecosystem were enforced, and the facilities within the park that existed since 1981 were demolished. Additionally, a 2008 decision by the Athens forestry department prevented the theater’s construction. The Alsos Pagratiou Assembly continues to this day, organizing various recreational, sports, informational, and cultural events within the park.

It’s cocktail o’clock at Arbaroriza

ARBARORIZA

For the past 10 years, Arbaroriza in Plastira Square, Pagrati, has been our goto spot for unique brunches, tasty coffees, and, above all, incredible cocktails. It stands out for its friendly atmosphere (always pet-friendly), funky, colourful décor, and great value-for-money options. The ever-evolving cocktail list features beloved Greek spirits like ouzo, tsipouro, raki, Patras tentura, and more, mixed with fresh ingredients for the most refreshing results. A popular people’s choice for everything it offers, Arbaroriza is especially famous for its welcoming staff, making you feel like a friend, part of the gang. It’s the perfect spot for a night out in beautiful, hip Pagrati.

P.S. Toxicana, Lady Boy, Strawberry Hill, Venom, Yogi… all imaginative and tasty options for your cocktail o’clock fix!

Info: 33 Eratosthenous St., Pagrati

T.: +30 210 70 19 530

Fb: Αρbarόριζα Ig: arbaroriza_athens

1km / EVANGELISMOS METRO LINE 3

ATHENS' RICH LEGACY OF OPEN-AIR THEATERS

Few cities in the world are as blessed as Athens with an abundance of open-air theaters capable of hosting high-quality musical and theatrical performances. Both ancient and modern theaters are nestled within the city’s urban fabric and its suburbs. Visit them, and you won’t be disappointed. Even if the performance isn’t what you expected, the view and the cool breeze will be worth it.

KOLONOS OPEN-AIR THEATER

Located in the historic neighborhood of Kolonos, this municipal theater, surrounded by greenery, hosts performances, concerts, festivals, community events, and more. While it may not yet have the reputation of other theaters in the region, it’s definitely worth a visit.

VRACHON MELINA MERKOURI AND ANNA SYNODINOU THEATERS

In 1986, during the mayoralty of Andreas Lendakis, the lunar landscape of the old quarries of Ymittos was transformed into an outdoor “multi-space” of culture. Since then, these two theaters— one large and one smaller—have become intertwined with our dreams. Notably, the concerts of foreign artists held here have left an indelible mark.

A vivid corner

KYPSELAKI

Kypselaki is an alternative Greek café and its name is inspired by the beautiful neighbourhood of Kipseli in which it is located. The tables on the wide sidewalk is an ideal urban spot to enjoy coffee, nibbles, beers, wine and delicious Greek distillates such as raki and tsipouro. Kypselaki is a spot where locals meet each other either they have a rendezvous or not. A humble place that generously offers you all day its services and makes you feel welcoming and comfortable.

Info:

2 Ithakis St., Kipseli

T.: +30 210 88 31 248

Fb: Kypselaki // Ig: kypselaki_

900m / VICTORIA METRO LINE 1

Coffee & Brunch

EM CAFE

In the heart of Athens, Em Cafe is your perfect starting point for exploring the city. With excellent coffee, a variety of delicious breakfast and brunch options, you’ll get the energy boost you need to begin your adventure. Until 9:00 PM, you can also enjoy a selection of refreshing soft drinks, making Em Cafe the ideal spot for any time of the day.

Info:

5 Plateia Eleftherias St., Athens

T.: +30 210 32 10 101 // Fb: EmCafe // Ig: _emcafe

650m / MONASTIRAKI METRO LINE 1, 3

Traditional nuts with history

ALAMPEIS

Since 1970, Alampeis has created its own history in the city of Athens, since it is one of the most renowned stores of its kind. Freshly roasted nuts, dried fruits, super foods and sugary products -sweets, almonds and spoon sweets, that are not missing from the Greek household- can be your companion on your walk or the souvenir in your suitcase.

Info:

6 Plateia Eleftherias St., Athens // www.alampeis.gr

T.: +30 210 32 16 372 // Fb: Alampeis

650m / MONASTIRAKI METRO LINE 1, 3

Sweets and treats since 1964

PETEK PATISSERIE

Since 1964, Petek Patisserie has been delighting Athens with top-notch sweets at Victoria Square. The Magklara family, inspired by traditions from Smyrna and Constantinople, craft their famous pastries and authentic desserts, with passion. This patisserie blends Eastern flavours with artistry and a love for sweets, preserving its cultural essence through time. Just as Victoria Square remains a timeless landmark, Petek upholds original recipes, ensuring each handmade treat is a nostalgic delight. Don’t miss their signature offerings, from syrupy galaktoboureko to modern chocolate-dipped baklavas.

Info:

81 Tritis Septemvriou St., Victoria Square

T.: 210 8223955

Fb: petek.pastry.shop

110m VICTORIA / METRO LINE 1

ATHENIAN SCENES

COMING ALIVE ON CANVAS

1. AVISSINIA’S SQUARE, MONASTIRAKI, KOSTAS MALAMOS,

Kostas Malamos (Alexandria, 1913 –March 20, 2007) was a Greek painter and engraver. Born in 1913 in Alexandria, Egypt, where his father sought refuge from Epirus. He studied at the Athens School of Fine Arts (19321937) and embraced realism, focusing on landscapes and everyday scenes, exhibiting widely both in Greece and abroad. This painting shows the Avissinia Square, situated between the commercial streets of Ermou and Ifestou in Monastiraki district. Named after ancient Ethiopia, it has been a hub of diverse cultures for centuries, hosting a renowned open-air flea market since 1912 and reflecting a rich tapestry of religions and civilizations.

2. NEON CAFE (DAYTIME & NIGHT), 1956-1966

Yannis Tsarouchis, a renowned Greek modernist painter, captured the essence of the Neon Cafe in Omonia Square in two oil paintings. The series offers two distinct perspectives: one by day and the other by night. Tsarouchis chose to represent the facade frontally, highlighting its architectural design with rectangular openings, doors, and windows, creating a grid pattern reminiscent of Piet Mondrian’s geometric abstraction. This “game” between abstraction and realism is a hallmark of Tsarouchis’s style, blending modernism with the Greek tradition. The daytime version focuses on the cafe’s structural elements, while the nighttime version introduces artificial lighting, adding warmth to the black and grey palette. The Neon Cafe, frequented by sailors and working-class youths, was significant for Tsarouchis, serving as a stage for everyday events. His works, including the Kafenio Neon diptych, remain celebrated for their unique fusion of abstraction, realism, and tradition.

The constellation of Astari

ASTARI

Astari is one of the most beautiful, simple, and unpretentious spots in Metaxourghio neighbourhood. With low prices, a minimalist style, a friendly atmosphere, clean drinks, and well-cooked food, it’s an authentic place where you feel comfortable and part of the community. Against the backdrop of the urban Athenian landscape, you can sit at one of its tables and enjoy a refreshing beer or tsipouro, have a bite to eat, and try a few dishes of well-prepared home-style food from its kitchen. At Astari, everything flows naturally; it’s a calm spot, away from the complexity and rush of our everyday lives.

Info:

28 Marathonos & 16 Germanikou St., Metaxourghio

T.: +30 210 52 20 131

Fb: @astari.athens

550m / METAXOURGHEIO METRO LINE 2

An unpretentious spot

TA KANARIA

Meet the first meze bar that opened in the neighbourhood of Kerameikos. Kanaria maintains the simple style of the traditional kafeneio (as it was already one since 1938) both in its architectural style and its ambience. Nowadays, it gathers all kinds of regulars, such as artists, youth and the district’ s residents. Sitting at a table at this beautiful corner, you can get a taste of the urban Athenian characteristics of this neighbourhood. Try its traditional high-quality appetizers (meze), coffees and the raki that is offered from 8 in the morning. You will surely enjoy the relaxed and outgoing atmosphere.

Info:

88 Kerameikou & Plataion St., Kerameikos

T.: +30 210 34 25 166

Fb: Ta kanaria // Ig: ta_kanaria

700m / KERAMEIKOS METRO LINE 3

EXPLORING THE LEGACY

THREE ATHENIAN STADIUMS

PANATHINAIKOS STADIUM “APOSTOLOS NIKOLAIDIS”

Located on Alexandras Avenue at the border of Kountouriotika and Ampelokipi, the stadium opened in March 1922 with 6,000 seats. It introduced cement stands in 1931, replacing the wooden ones.

In spring 1942, during the German occupation, a planned charity match between Panathinaikos and AEK for Sotiria Hospital was canceled due to German intervention. This led to a major anti-war demonstration with 15,000 fans. The stadium manager turned restricted areas into resistance hubs with radios and raised the Greek flag just before the Germans withdrew.

RIZOUPOLI STADIUM

“Giorgos Kamaras Stadium” (widely known as Rizoupoli Stadium) is a multi-purpose stadium mainly used for football matches, located in Rizoupoli (Herakliou Avenue). It serves as the home ground for the local historic team of Apollon Smyrnis and belongs to the amateur club G.S. Apollon Smyrnis. In the past, the stadium also served as the home ground for Olympiacos of Piraeus and AEK. The stadium was built in 1948. It has a capacity of 14,200 seats. The attendance record was set in 1973 during a match between Apollon Smyrnis and PAS Giannina with 21,231 spectators in the stands.

PANATHENAIC STADIUM OR KALLIMARMARO (VASILEOS KONSTANTINOU AVENUE)

In antiquity, the stadium was used for part of the Panathenaic Games in honor of the goddess Athena. Built between the hills of Agras and Ardettos in 329 BC, during the time of Lycurgus, the stadium was originally constructed with wooden seats. In 140 AD, during the reign of Herodes Atticus, a large-scale renovation took place, along with an increase in capacity to 50,000 seats. During unknown times of the Middle Ages, it was completely stripped of its marble, like many other ancient buildings in Athens. It was renovated during the reign of King Otto, as well as prior to the first modern Olympic Games in 1896. Today, it is also used for artistic events.

The traditional flavour of souvlaki

DELICIOUS SOUVLAKI

Souvlaki and gyros are undoubtedly the number one street food of Greece that you must definitely give them a try. At Delicious Souvlaki you will find the authentic flavours of a traditional Greek grill, such as pork and chicken gyros, kalamaki, souvlaki, kebabs, sausages and salads, homemade tzatziki, but also burgers Greek-style, with gyros and kebab. Dimitris and Sotiria, the owners, will help you make the best choices either for take away or to dine in enjoying your delicious meal in the heart of Athens.

Info:

4 Panagi Tsaldari St., Omonia

T.: +30 212 10 05 664

Fb: Delicious Souvlaki

Ig: delicious_souvlaki

47m / OMONIA METRO LINE 1, 2

A palette of Greek homemade food

ACHILLEAS VERGINA

At Achilleas-Vergina, a beloved culinary gem since 1978, you’ll discover delicious traditional Greek dishes, available for takeout or to savour at the tables along the charming Valtesiou pedestrian street in Exarchia. Each day, at least 25 different recipes are freshly prepared to delight your taste buds. Every choice from the menu promises an authentic experience of Greek homemade cuisine with quality and flavour deeply cherished by locals and visitors. And before you leave Athens, don’t miss out on trying Achilleas-Vergina’s famous souvlaki!

Info:

62 Valtetsiou St., Exarchia

T.: +30 210 33 02 933

Ig: axilleas_vergina

Fb: achileas1978

700m / OMONIA METRO LINE 1, 2

ATHENS WASN'T ALWAYS LIKE THIS

EXARCHIA, 1930s. The upper corner of Exarchia Square at the intersection of Themistokleous and Stournari streets. You can see a taxi rank from that era, Lycabettus Hill, and one of the kiosks of the time.

KIPSELI, FOKIONOS NEGRI, 1964. Back then, the street wasn’t pedestrianized, and you can see the road on both sides.

PAGRATI, PAGRATI SQUARE, 1955. You can see many low houses with tiled roofs from earlier times, as well as the trolleys and buses of the era.

AMBELOKIPI, ALEXANDRAS AVENUE AND FIDIOU STREET, AROUND 1960. This is one of the spots in the city that gets congested almost daily nowadays, but it seems this was already the case in the 1960s. 01 02 03

Signature Traditional Greek cuisine

ALEXANDER THE GREAT

This restaurant offers a menu based on Greek gastronomy, featuring authentic recipes to satisfy even the most demanding customers. The dishes range from juicy roasts and daily stews to traditional favorites like stuffed cabbage leaves, moussaka, and spetsofai. Each dish is crafted to provide a memorable experience, combining Greek hospitality with culinary excellence. The philosophy of MEGAS ALEXANDROS is to create beautiful memories and real delight with every visit, ensuring that every guest enjoys a truly exceptional meal.

Info:

3 Megalou Alexandrou St., Metaxourghio T.: +30 210 52 03 909

Fb: alexanderthegreatathens

Ig: alexanderthegreatathens www.alexanderthegreatathens.com

Athenian Charm and Greek Cuisine

ROZALIA

Rozalia is the perfect spot to experience both Athenian vibes and traditional Greek cuisine. For over five decades, Rozalia has graced Valtetsiou Street in Exarchia with its beautiful garden, offering an idyllic backdrop for meals with loved ones. The inviting atmosphere, homemade dishes, and traditional recipes—like moussaka cooked in a ceramic bowl—enhance the diverse menu options. The exceptional quality of the meat and fish further contributes to the restaurant’s undeniable charm.

Info:

59 Valtetsiou St., Exarchia

T.: +30 210 38 02 725 // www.rozalia.gr Ig: tavernarozalia // Fb: Ροζαλία-Rozalia

850m / OMONIA METRO LINE 1, 2

ATHENS FROM ABOVE

In these neighbourhoods lie some of the high points of the city, where the unrestricted view offers a unique perspective of the vibe of the city you’re visiting. Are you ready for a little walk?

STREFI HILL

Strefi Hill is in Athens, between Exarchia and Neapoli neighbourhoods. For several years during the 19th and 20th centuries, there was a quarry there, which altered the shape of the hill. The quarry ceased operations in the 1920s, and afforestation of the hill began. The hill passed into Greek public ownership in 1914 and in 1938 to the Municipality of Athens. There is an outdoor theater, a basketball court, a playground, and a cafeteria on the hill.

FINOPOULOU HILL

Located in the eastern part of Pedion tou Areos, Finopoulou Hill is surrounded by apartment buildings that give it a lively atmosphere. Every afternoon, dozens of children play in its playground. It’s perfect for a brisk walk due to its incline and offers excellent views of the city, especially at sunset. Despite its charm with a small area and several paths lined with pine trees, it could become one of the city’s “hidden gems” if better maintained, attracting many eager explorers.

HELICON HILL OR ALEPOTRYPA

Helicon Hill or Alepotrypa (Foxhole) is a low hill in in Kipseli neighbourhood, north of Kipseli Square and on the border with the Municipality of Galatsi. It is located east of Patision Avenue, at the end of Amorgos and Anafi streets. It is a small hill with a peak at an altitude of 184 meters, covering an area of approximately 140 acres. In the past, quarries owned by the Kourousis brothers operated on it.

An all-day destination for good times

SOUSOU

SouSou is waiting for you to enjoy your day on its verdant pedestrian street. The day starts with coffee, breakfast and brunch. As the afternoon unfolds in Athens, the energy rises both music and mood-wise. Now is the time to enjoy the signature cocktails, Gossip and Madame Sousou with their fruity flavours and aromas. Don’t forget to accompany your drink with the neat bar food.

Info: 12 Eratosthenous St., Pagrati

T.: +30 21 0701 9785

Fb: @sousou.alldaybar // Ig: sousou_alldaybar

1km / EVANGELISMOS METRO LINE 3

Chill out and visit Montreal

CAFÉ MONTREAL

For an authentic and laid-back experience, visit Café Montreal, located on the beautiful Agias Zonis pedestrian street. Savour high-quality Cretan products like apaki and graviera cheese while enjoying their organic distillates and spirits. With reggae and world music setting a summer vibe, you’ll feel like you’re on a relaxing getaway as you sip on one of their signature cocktails or neat drinks.

Info:

7 Agias Zonis St., Kipseli // T.: +30 21 0862 7021

Ig: cafemontreal_ // Fb: Cafe Montreal - coffee & more 1,2km / AGIOS NIKOLAOS METRO LINE 1

A unique all-day place

DI LIEN

“ Di Lien” features the signature of chef Giannis Tsikoudakis and offers a variety of quality Greek ingredients, coffee from June coffee roasters, a well-curated selection of beverages including wines and spirits, and even merchandise featuring the Di Lien logo and characteristic moustache. The bar at Di Lien offers rare labels from Greek breweries, natural wines, and these complement the lineup of DJs who play genres ranging from boom bap, funk, soul to dark wave until 2 in the morning. In the morning, it serves a selection of traditional dishes variations suitable for breakfast/brunch.

Info:

43 Stournari St., Exarchia

T.: +30 210 38 03 968

Ig: dilien_ath

550m / OMONIA METRO LINE 1, 3

Sun S u nSunS

THE SUN LOOKS AT US ALL

In Athens, diversity paints a picture of contrasts. Here in Peristeri, Kifissia, and other neighbourhoods, the different scenery stands ouT.: οld apartment buildings, refugee houses, and villas, even if the neighbourhoods are close to each other. All of these neighbourhoods are an important part of the same city. These differences define our city, creating a vibrant tapestry of cultures and experiences. They remind us of the challenges we face together—inequality, injustice, and the quest for unity. Amidst these contrasts, the sun shines equally, illuminating every corner of Athens with its warmth and hope. Together, we navigate these urban landscapes, striving for a future where everyone can thrive, regardless of where they call home.

BRAVE KESARIANI

Kesariani is a place with a great history, closely intertwined with the history of Greece. It was established by refugees who arrived in Greece after the Asia Minor Catastrophe. Many of their houses still stand in the area, shaping its character. During the German occupation, thousands of fighters endured torture, and hundreds were executed in Kesariani. Today, it’s a peaceful, family-oriented neighbourhood that keeps its history alive. Its streets are lined with cafes, where neighbors gather at outdoor tables and chairs, traditional taverns, and an atmosphere of tranquility that invites you to immerse yourself in its charm.

NAMING:

Kesariani got its name from the Kesariani Monastery, situated at the foot of Mount Hymettus. However, the exact origin of its name remains uncertain. Some say it stems from the emperor’s brothers, the Caesars (exiled to Athens by Irene the Athenian), or from the island of Syros.

A LITTLE BIT OF HISTORY:

Kesariani served as a site of martyrdom for Greek Resistance fighters. Specifically, over 600 fighters were executed by the Germans at the Kesariani shooting range. Within the Kesariani Grove stands the National Resistance Monument of Kesariani, also known as the “Altar of Freedom,” honoring the Greeks executed by Nazi occupation troops there, between 1942 and 1944. The monument comprises two central columns and black granite plates inscribed with the names of the fallen. Behind the columns lies a small pond, where the blood of the executed gathered. While the monument area isn’t always accessible, it’s visible from the entrance.

LANDMARKS:

The Kesariani Monastery, dating back to the 11th century, ranks among Attica’s oldest and most significant monasteries. Dedicated to the Virgin Mary, its spring, called Kalliope, has been associated with healing since ancient times. Many childless women used to go there to drink its water, hoping to conceive.

Tips:

To reach Kesariani, take 224 bus (Kesariani-El. Venizelos), which passes through many central city points. Alternatively, you can use metro line 2 from Evangelismos station, but be prepared for a half-hour walk afterwards.

Don’t miss a leisurely stroll through Kesariani’s narrow streets, where you can see the refugee houses and savour traditional cuisine at local taverns.

The Kesariani Grove was cleared of trees by the Germans during the Occupation. However, it was later reforested, and today it offers hiking trails leading to the Kesariani Monastery.

GENTLE

Yet another neighbourhood of Athens that is tightly intertwined with the refugee community. What sets this refugee settlement apart from others is that it housed affluent refugees.

Nea Philadelphia is known for its openness, low buildings, spacious squares, peaceful streets, greenery, and a moderate commercial activity. Strict architectural and urban planning regulations (due to the area’s historical significance), along with the creation of a network of pedestrian walkways, have enhanced its appeal and contributed to maintaining its unique characteristics. Taking a stroll through

Nea Philadelphia feels like a mini urban adventure, where you can spend hours exploring and stumble upon new sights, before unwinding at one of its squares, in the nearby grove, or at its eateries and bars.

NEA PHILADELPHIA

NAMING:

Some of the refugee settlements established in Greece after the Asia Minor Catastrophe were given names of regions in Asia Minor, prefixed with the word “new,” symbolizing a fresh start. Essentially, for sentimental reasons, they wished to somehow transplant their homelands to their new surroundings. Similar areas in Athens include Nea Smyrni and Nea Ionia. Other examples are Neos Kosmos (literally meaning New World) and Neo Herakleion, where, in these cases, the second word does not originate from a region in Asia Minor, but rather signifies the “rebirth” of the area after the refugees settled there. Nea Philadelphia was named as such in 1932.

A LITTLE BIT OF HISTORY:

The area saw its first mass influx of residents during the period of 1922-1928, when refugees from Asia Minor arrived. Until 1927, it was known as Podoniftis, named after the stream, that flowed through it. In 1923, the government acquired a large, verdant agricultural area in the region, intending to establish a settlement for some of the Asia Minor refugees. The settlement comprised 549 buildings with 1,720 residences, designed to resemble an English village, featuring houses with tiled roofs and small gardens. Concurrently, four complexes of workers’ apartment buildings were erected. Many of these structures still stand in the area, significantly shaping its character to this day. The earthquake of 1999 ravaged over 400 old buildings. In an effort to preserve the historic core, which occupies more than a third of the municipality’s area, municipal authorities initiated proceedings to designate the settlement as “traditional.”

LANDMARKS:

The grove of Nea Philadelphia (420 acres) serves as a green oasis not only for the local community but for the entire city of Athens. Its development began in 1914 with gradual tree plantings. The artificial lake, known for its windmills, nestled within the grove, is affectionately known as “the orchard of heaven” and stands as a unique feature. The football field of the AEK team holds historical significance as the team was founded by refugees from Constantinople, hence the new stadium was named Agia Sophia. The now-abandoned Britannia silk factory – where refugees, predominantly women, also worked – serves as a reminder of Greece’s industrial past. Its imposing chimneys remain intact.

Transportation: Bus lane 3 originates from Nea Philadelphia, connecting it directly to the city center.

Within the grove, there is a summer cinema where moviegoers can enjoy films amidst lush greenery and cool breezes.

Visit the Hellenic Museum of Asia Minor Hellenism “Filio Chaidemenou” to delve into the history of refugees in Greece.

STRIKING

In the southern suburbs of Athens lies Kallithea, one of the city’s most densely populated districts, initially established to house refugees from the Asia Minor catastrophe. Its emblem features Theseus, the legendary figure who, according to myth, landed on Kallithea’s shores after defeating the Minotaur in Crete. Archaeological evidence indicates early habitation dating back to the 4th century BC, hinting at maritime activity in the region. Evolving over time, Kallithea has developed into a vibrant, modern neighbourhood characterized by its bustling commercial scene and green spaces.

to house refugees from phe. Its emblem features evidence indicates early over time, Kallithea has

KALLITHEA

NAMING:

The name “Kallithea”, meaning “beautiful view” in Greek, captures the essence of the neighbourhood’s picturesque past, offering unobstructed vistas of the Acropolis and Lycabettus Hill. The names of the streets and squares were drawn from antiquity and, more specifically, from Greek mythology. Initially, what is now Charokopou Street was called Paridos Street, Davaki Street was named after Demeter, and so forth.

A LITTLE BIT OF HISTORY:

During the Greek Revolution, the region bordering present-day Kallithea, from Agios Sostis to Spartis Street, known as Analatos, became the battleground where Georgios Karaiskakis, the famous leader of the Greek War of Independence of 1821, was killed on April 22, 1827. Kallithea was once known as Charokopou, and was adorned with lush gardens, providing Athenians with a tranquil escape from urban life. During World War II, Kallithea actively participated in the National Resistance (ELAS).

LANDMARKS:

Take a stroll through the verdant Davaki Square, where you’ll often see locals basking in the sunlight. Some notable landmarks are the impressive National Library, the renowned “Red School” building, situated at the crossroads of Perikleous and Metamorfoseos streets, originally built in 1922 and the historic building of the National Resistance on Bizaniou Street. Additionally, Kallithea is known for its shooting range, established in 1895 for the 1896 Olympics. Designed by Olympic champion Anastasios Metaxas, the range has witnessed various transformations, serving as a prison during the occupation before becoming a school.

Kallithea has its own metro stop (metro line 1) but be aware! It’s a sprawling area, so you may also need to take a bus to reach your destination.

Dining and drinking in Kallithea is effortless; you’ll find small taverns dotted everywhere, along with trendy bars and cozy cafes.

Note that Kallithea features the longest and most scenic stretch of the Athenian bicycle lane, so take a ride through it, my friend.

PINE-COVERED KIFISSIA

Kifissia, stands as a vibrant district within Athens, serving as a historic hub in the city’s northern region. Positioned advantageously, Kifissia has long been a great retreat for Athenians. Presently, it is recognized for its commercial market, well-designed urban layout, characteristic architectural style of residences, shops and mansions, grand clock towers, and the community’s affinity for floriculture. The commercial heart of Kifissia is adorned with extensive sidewalks and bike paths, stretching from Mount Parnitha and the Kifissos River to Mount Pentelicus.

NAMING:

Kifissia derives its name from the Kifissos River, an ancient title owing to its status as one of the 12 cities of ancient Athens. Since the time of Kleisthenes, it has been a significant municipality of the Erechtheis tribe. Although not historically accurate, a modern Greek folk etymology suggests that Kifissia originates from the phrase “there it blows” – in Greek “kei fysa” - “Kifisa” - “Kifissia”.

A LITTLE BIT OF HISTORY:

Dating back to antiquity, Kifissia has held a place among the wealthiest municipalities in Attica, owing to its salubrious climate, picturesque surroundings, abundant water sources, and its relative proximity to Athens. Throughout history, it has been a favored retreat for the affluent and aristocrats. Archaeological discoveries dot the landscape, attesting to its rich heritage. Under Venetian rule, Kifissia became home to the influential and affluent Venetians of Athens. Subsequently, during the Ottoman era, these former Venetian estates passed into the possession of the prosperous Turks of Athens.

LANDMARKS:

Within Kifissia, notable landmarks abound, such as Villa Kazouli, an architectural gem in the eclectic style. Dubbed “the Villa of the Lions,” it owes its name to the two striking lion sculptures of the marble stairs of the portico. During the Occupation, the villa served as an SS guardhouse, requisitioned by the occupying forces. Another prominent structure is Villa Atlantis by Schiller, erected in 1897. Historians highlight the innovative blend of Renaissance and Classical Antiquity architectural elements in this work.

Tips:

Kifissia serves as the terminal station for the Green Line 1 of the metro.

For years, Kifissia remained sparsely populated, lacking urban planning and modern amenities. However, in 1882, its connection to the capital via the legendary steam train “Therio” marked the beginning of its transformation into a resort town, characterized by squares, tree-lined avenues, and parks.

Be sure to visit the Goulandris Museum of Natural History.

SALTY PIRAEUS

Piraeus (Ancient Greek:

Πειραιεύς) is a city within the Athens-Piraeus urban area, renowned for its significant historical, commercial, and cultural importance. Its port, Europe’s third busiest passenger port, links the capital to the Aegean islands and serves as a key hub for Mediterranean cruises.

Piraeus forms the Piraeus Regional Unit, encompassing not just its own area but also six other regions (Nikaia, Agios Ioannis Rentis, Korydallos, Keratsini, Drapetsona, and Perama), with a total population of 448,051 inhabitants. Piraeus is known to be a wonderful place to live or visit! Explore its vibrant streets, steeped in a captivating and ancient history, offering a great range of attractions and experiences.

NAMING:

Many ancient writers, aiming to emphasize the insular character of Piraeus, derive the word “Πειραιεύς” from “περαιεύς” (with a change of ε to ει). “Πειραιεύς” means the ferryman (from “περαιόω” = to cross over), that is, the one who undertakes ferrying from the coast of Phalerum to the opposite.

A LITTLE BIT OF HISTORY:

Piraeus, according to modern geological studies, was once an island and appears to have been inhabited since the Neolithic period. Piraeus stretches from the Gulf of Elefsina to the Faliron Bay, opposite the island of Salamis. Its central geographical feature is the Piraeus Peninsula, where the Zea Marina, the Mikrolimano (meaning small port), and the hill of Kastella (or Prophet Elias Hill) are located. All are perfect for leisurely walks along the seaside!

LANDMARKS:

Significant landmarks of Piraeus, include remnants of the 5th-century BC walls, remains of ancient temples and buildings, the neoclassical Municipal Theater, industrial buildings from the early 20th century, preserved neoclassical structures, and impressive modern constructions such as the Peace and Friendship Stadium and the Georgios Karaiskakis Stadium, home to the sport team Olympiacos. Several museums operate in Piraeus, with the most notable being the Archaeological Museum and the Hellenic Maritime Museum.

Tips:

Start at Themistokleous coast, passing by Skafaki, Baikoutsis’s, and Venus coves, then explore Freatida Bay with its ancient origins and inviting beaches. Enjoy the sunset views over Aegina and Salamis islands from the peninsula.

2nd walking proposal: Dilaveri coast and Mikrolimano look -especially in the summer- like a village of some Cycladian island. Wander from the Panagia Mirtidiotissa church to Koumoundourou coast’s lively fish restaurants and cozy cafes.

3rd walking proposal: Climb the narrow streets of Castella hill for panoramic harbor views and get a taste of Piraeus’s maritime heritage.

WEST SIDE

Peristeri is the “metropolis” of the western districts of Athens and has been deeply ingrained in the consciousness of Athenians as a working-class neighbourhood, much like all the western suburbs. With a rich history dating back to antiquity, Peristeri seems to have been around forever. Just 4.5 kilometers from the center of Athens, until 1934 it was part of the central city, until the area’s growing population led to Peristeri becoming a separate municipality. Today, this district is anything but “working-class”: new housing, high rents, bustling commercial activity, diverse dining options, parks, and three metro stations have made Peristeri one of the most popular neighbourhoods in Athens.

PERISTERI

NAMING:

Firstly, Peristeri means pigeon. It’s uncertain how the district got its name. According to one version, its “godfather” was a certain “Perister Agas” of the Ottoman Empire, but we’re not sure if that was his real name or just a nickname, perhaps inspired by the wild pigeons that frequented the area. Regarding the names of most settlements established pre-war in Peristeri, they derive from the type of housing. Initially, the Upper and Lower Germanika owe their names to the fact that their funding came from reparations paid by Germany after the First World War.

A LITTLE BIT OF HISTORY:

References to the area exist since antiquity, where Peristeri stands out as a place with distinctive flora around the ancient river Kifissos - a river that no longer exists, as it has been covered, with a central road artery of the city now running on top of it. Peristeri began to develop with the arrival of refugees from Asia Minor. The residents of the area were employed in factories or engaged in manual labor.

LANDMARKS:

Peristeri was initially centered around the church of Agios Antonios, therefore, the main landmarks are in that area. Among those landmarks is the Atromitos Stadium, home to a football team whose history began in 1923 in the city center, and from the 1930s, it has been based in Peristeri. Don’t miss the refugee apartment buildings just outside the metro, as well as the church of Agios Antonios, built in 1924 by refugees and now serving as the Metropolitan Church of Peristeri.

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Tips:

Peristeri boasts three brand new metro stations, all on red line 2: Agios Antonios, Peristeri, and Anthoupoli, a district of the municipality located higher up the hill.

There are still numerous pigeon houses on the rooftops in the district.

The Mayor of Peristeri, Andreas Pachatouridis, is something of a superstar, having been elected continuously since 2003, completing a record term.

LEMONOKIPOS

11 Agios Triados, Nea Filadelfia

t.: +30 21 0258 8611

Ig: lemonokipos_neafiladelfeia

AGAVITA

86 Leoforos Dekelias St., Nea Filadelfia

t.: +30 21 0251 0604

Ig: agavita_cantina_mexicana

EN AIHTRIA

4 Vrioulon St., Nea Filadelfia

t.: +30 21 0258 2751

Ig: en_aithria_filadelfeia

ENALLAKTIKOS KAFENES

70 Efroniou St., Kaisariani

t.: +30 21 0722 0077

Ig: enallaktikos_kafenes_vasilh

MOMO

95 Sapfus St., Kalithea

t.: +30 21 0956 2300

Ig: momokallithea

PEZOULAS FISH RESTAURANT

11 Pisistratou St., Kallithea

t.: +30 21 0942 2684

Ig: pezoulas_fishrestaurant

The roosters

7 25 Martiou St., Peristeri

t.: +30 210 572 4626

Ig: theroosters.co

VARSOS PATISSERIE

5 Kassaveti St., Kifissia

t.: +30 21 0801 2472

Ig: varsos_kifisia_1892

HAMS AND CLAMS

Zea Marina, Piraeus

Tel.: +30 21 0418 6683

Ig: hamsandclams

PLACES WORTH VISITING

THE VERDANT OASIS OF ATHENS

A TOUR ON ITS GREEN SPACES

Amidst the hustle and bustle of the metropolis of Athens lies an often-overlooked treasure: Attica’s lush green spaces. From majestic mountains to serene parks, Athens offers options for nature enthusiasts, although not as plentiful as those abroad. Let’s embark on a journey to explore some of these verdant oases. Athens’ green spaces provide a welcome respite from urban chaos, inviting visitors to reconnect with nature and rejuvenate their spirits. Whether exploring majestic mountains, tranquil parks, or lush forests, one thing is certain: amidst the concrete jungle, nature’s beauty still thrives, waiting to be discovered and cherished.

MOUNT PARNITHA

Rising majestically to the north of Athens, Mount Parnitha stands as a symbol of natural beauty and wilderness. Home to diverse flora and fauna, this paradise offers a plethora of outdoor activities, from hiking and mountain biking to birdwatching and picnicking. The Parnitha National Park, spanning over 300 square kilometers, is a haven for biodiversity, boasting ancient forests, crystal-clear streams, and breathtaking vistas of the surrounding landscape.

ANTONIS TRITSIS PARK

In the heart of western Athens lies Antonis Tritsis Park, a sprawling urban green space named after the visionary politician who spearheaded its creation. Stretching over 1,500 hectares, this park is a testament to the city’s commitment to environmental sustainability and recreational development. Its vast meadows, tranquil lakes, and shady groves provide a retreat for residents and visitors alike. Families gather for picnics, children frolic in playgrounds, and fitness enthusiasts jog along its scenic trails. With its verdant landscapes and array of amenities, Antonis Tritsis Park stands as a beloved sanctuary for the local community.

NEA PHILADELPHIA GROVE

The Grove of Nea Philadelphia serves as a significant green lung for the city of Athens, providing temporary or permanent shelter for many species of wildlife. Spanning 420 acres, it is not a remnant of an older natural landscape but rather began its gradual formation in 1914 with tree plantings on the tranquil hillside adjacent to the Pedoniftis stream. The first official tree planting of the then-bare hill took place in 1914. During the war, the Grove suffered damage, and in 1948, a new reforestation effort was undertaken. The last major tree plantings occurred in 1994 and 1995, with smaller-scale efforts continuing to this day (approximately every year).

SYNGROU FOREST, KIFISSIA

It covers approximately 950 acres, mostly covered with Aleppo Pine, making it the only remaining natural forest in the wider area and the entire Attica basin. The Syngrou Forest houses the facilities of the Institute of Agricultural Sciences (IAS) (offices, classrooms, greenhouses, cultivations, parking). It also hosts the protected buildings of the Syngrou Tower, the sacred Gothic-style temple of St. Andrew, both designed by the renowned architect Ernst Ziller. It has been designated as a landscape of special natural beauty and a site of archaeological findings. Apart from these qualities, the Syngrou Forest has offered archaeological evidence indicating a site with multiple layers of history, dating back to prehistoric times.

AGIOS DIMITRIOS GROVE, PETROUPOLI

This is the central grove of the Municipality of Petroupoli, which hosts the residents of the area daily, as well as those from neighboring municipalities. It is a wooded area located on the slopes of Mount Poikilos, filled with pine trees and featuring a well-organized internal road network, as well as clean and well-maintained dirt paths. Within the park, one can find playgrounds, two cafes, and several benches for reading, relaxation, and picnicking. Additionally, the park stands out, especially on its eastern side, for its panoramic view of Athens sprawling beneath the mountain slopes.

TATOI ESTATE, ACHARNAI

At the former Royal Tatoi Estate, you can explore the buildings, walk along the estate’s paths, take your dogs for a stroll, or go cycling. A particularly excellent route leads to the artificial Kithara Lake, which offers exceptional views of the basin and boasts rare natural beauty. It is one of the first road construction projects of the Koumoundourou Governments, dating back to 1876, as evidenced by the stone inscriptions at the top of the bridges. There are many open spaces on the estate where you can enjoy your picnic.

EATHER INSIDE & AROUND US

In addition to its chemical definition, “ether” or in Greek “Aetheras” has been historically and philosophically used to refer to an invisible medium that permeates space and transmits electromagnetic waves. This concept has largely been abandoned in modern physics with the development of relativity theory and quantum mechanics. In Free Athens magazine, ether describes the beautiful surroundings of Athens: the sea with crystal-clear waters, mountains teeming with flora and fauna, and a sense of vacation just outside the bustling center. It’s both a village and not a village at the same time. Immerse yourself in the eather of inspiration with us and discover Attica from end to end.

A etherA e t h er

r A etherAether

Discovering the Athenian Riviera

Escape the hustle of Athens without boarding a ferry; just a short bus ride unveils superb local beaches along the serene Saronic Gulf, stretching from Athens’ southern suburbs to Cape Sounio. Only 10 miles south, a 30–40-minute drive transports you from urban sprawl to idyllic palm-fringed settings. Here, you can swim, unwind at waterfront cafes, stroll picturesque pedestrian streets and marinas, indulge in water sports, shop at modern centers, dine seaside, or enjoy buzzing coastal clubs—a favorite among the youth, reminiscent of Mykonos vibes. Summer in the city doesn’t seem so bad after all, does it?

Exploring Coastal Gems

Explore Faliro and Flisvos Marina, a cosmopolitan hub near Athens offering a range of activities with stunning views of the Saronic Gulf. Nearby Flisvos Park invites leisurely strolls and bike rides, with free bike rentals available on select evenings until September 30th. Glyfada beckons as one of Athens' chicest districts, boasting sandy beaches, cosmopolitan nightlife, refined hotels, boutiques, and marinas—a haven for yacht enthusiasts.

Just south lies Voula, home to vibrant beaches, beach clubs, and modern amenities perfect for day and night enjoyment, including beach bars, water sports, and elegant clubs. Voula A’ beach is family-friendly with a Blue Flag, while Voula B’ offers facilities for swimmers with disabilities. Eastward lies Vouliagmeni with its marina, private beaches, and stunning views of the Saronic Gulf islands. Astir beach is famed for its luxurious setting and clear waters, complemented by a vibrant nightlife and upscale dining options.

Nearby Vouliagmeni Lake, with its healing thermal waters, offers a unique swimming experience. Further along the coast is Varkiza, a bustling resort offering azure waters, water sports, and seaside dining experiences, including fresh seafood paired perfectly with ouzo. The coastal road continues past marvelous resorts like Lagonissi and Saronida, culminating at Cape Sounio, where the majestic Temple of Poseidon stands. Witnessing the sunset here, painting the sky in hues of mauve and pink while the sea shimmers like sapphire, is an unforgettable experience, steeped in ancient Athenian history.

The amazing world of Bolivar Beach Bar

BOLIVAR BEACH BAR

A place that all Athenians love, where you can access all-day activities. Whether you are seeking to dance, bask in the golden sun, enjoy the breathtaking sunset views, drink signature cocktails, or taste the Mediterranean flavours, this is the place to be.

The Beach: Sun, fine pebbles, amazing water park. Full organized and full accessible to enjoy your time at sea, 20 minutes from the center of Athens.

The RestauranT.: Indulge in tantalizing Mediterranean cuisine served from morning till night, and sip refreshing cocktails as you soak up the vibrant atmosphere.

The Nights: Dance to the rhythm of worldclass DJs. This year Bolivar celebrates its 20 years, so we will have the chance to enjoy a great line-up during summer.

Info: Leoforos Poseidonos Akti tou Hliou Beach, Alimos 17455, Athens // T.: +30 210 9 831018 // www.bolivar.gr Fb: Bolivar Beach Bar // Ig: @bolivarbeachbar // Trip Advisor: Bolivar Beach Bar

TRAM STOP 3RD KALAMAKI

THE TEMPLE OF POSEIDON

The Temple of Poseidon is an ancient Greek temple on Cape Sounion, Greece, dedicated to the god Poseidon. There is evidence of sanctuaries on the cape as early as the 11th century BC. However, Sounion’s most prominent temples— the Temple of Athena and the Temple of Poseidon— are believed to have been built around 700 BC, with their kouroi (freestanding Greek statues of young men) dating from about one hundred years later. The material and size of the offerings at the Temple of Poseidon suggest it was likely frequented by members of the elite and aristocratic class. The Greeks considered Poseidon to be the “master of the sea.” Given Athens’ dependence on sea trade and the significance of its navy during the fifth century, Poseidon held particular relevance and value to Athenians.

A Hidden Gem called Agistri

DRAGONERA

Agistri island (meaning “hook”) is in the Saronic Gulf and is well known for its vibes and clear waters. Dragonera is a beautiful beach in Agistri with a mix of pebbles and forest. At Dragonera Beach Bar, you can enjoy tasty food, unique signature cocktails, and relaxing lounge music. On weekends, it gets livelier with parties and DJ sets, mostly featuring electronic music. If you want some peace and quiet, explore the calm corners a little further away. Relax and watch the stunning sunset, the best in the Saronic Gulf.

Info:

Dragonera Beach, Agistri 18010

Fb: Dragonera Agistri – Sunsert Coast Ig: dragonera_agistri_s.c.

YOU CAN REACH AGISTRI ISLAND FROM PIRAEUS PORT

A breath away from Athens

THYMARI CON GUSTO

Just past Palaia Fokaia and below the Thymari settlement, Thymari Con Gusto offers an atmosphere of unpretentious relaxation, whether you want to enjoy a swim or a drink with a view of the Saronic Gulf. With a wooden deck and sun loungers, a selection of bites such as pizzas and salads, and summer cocktails in playful colours and glasses, this setting transports you to an island-like experience, yet it’s only an hour away from Athens – and even less if traffic is on our side. The relaxed atmosphere and the beautiful sea – one of the cleanest in the Attica region – help everyone come together as friends. From morning till night, an escape to Thymari is the perfect way to spend a delightful summer!

Info:

54th km, Athens-Sounio Avenue

Τ.: +30 697 677 7974

Fb: Thymari Con Gusto

Ig: thymaricongusto

BUSES FROM ELLINIKO, GLYFADA, SARONIDA

SHOPPING HOPPING

VARVAKEIOS MARKET

The best way to immerse yourself in the traditional colours and flavours of Athens is to get up early and head for Varvakeios Market.

Athens Central Market, or Varvakeios as it is commonly called, is the city's largest food market. Located in a large building in the heart of Athens, the market is a mixture of traditional shops and stalls with the wonderful aromas of fresh herbs and spices. When you need to catch your breath, enjoy a cup of Greek coffee and eat something tasty, as there are several popular tavernas and ouzeries in the market.

History hinT.: Before the market was built in 1886, traders sold their goods from small shacks built around the Roman Agora. A wealthy Athenian businessman, loannis Varvakeios paid for the construction of the huge market place which is situated in the block between Evripidou, Sophocleous, and Aiolou streets with the main entrance in Athinas Street. The market is not only impressive in size, but it was also built with a basement for storage and a huge glass roof. Varvakeios Market was named after its founder and has run continually since it opened.

VOLCANO

CBD Volcano is the top choice for cannabis products in Greece, offering an extensive range of items to suit every taste and need. The store features high-quality CBD oils, flowers, edibles like gummies and chocolates, and a wide selection of accessories and vape products. You can also find excellent offers and discounts, ensuring the best value for your money. Visit the physical stores across Greece or shop online to explore its full product range. At CBD Volcano, they combine quality with variety for a unique cannabis experience that meets everyone’s needs. Try it today and see why they are the first choice for cannabis enthusiasts!

Info: Athinaidos 1, Monastiraki

T.: +30 693 69 81 331

Ιg: @volcano_shop_athens www.cbd-volcano.com

SHOPPING HOPPING

VINTAGE SHOPPING IN ATHENS

Second-hand shopping has become increasingly popular in Athens in recent years, making it a top choice for visitors. Even if vintage isn’t your usual style, thrift shops, as they’re commonly known, offer a wide selection of gently-used, brandname items.

While vintage shopping isn’t as prevalent among Greeks compared to other European cities, more and more younger Greeks are embracing thrift shopping for its affordability, trendiness, and environmental benefits. In Athens, you can discover original fashion pieces sourced from major European fashion hubs.

Vintage shops in the city center are treasure troves of enduring pieces like jeans, accessories, and bags. Recognizable by their charming, well-curated storefronts and sophisticated aesthetics, these shops offer timeless fashion that can be enjoyed across generations.

Something old becomes new

LIKE YESTERDAY’S

Like Yesterday’s remains true to its identity, always selecting the best pieces for your wardrobe, especially vintage ones. Treat yourself or find the perfect gift from a variety of clothes, accessories such as belts and scarves, faux bijoux, and other small treasures. With reasonable prices, you can take home a vintage souvenir of Athens, along with your photos and memories.

Info:

16 Protogenous St., Psiri | Τ: +30 216 7004810

Fb: likeyesterdays2ndhand

260m / MONASTIRAKI METRO LINE 1, 3

A shelter for crafts

CONTRUST DESIGNERS’ COLLECTIVE

Contrust Designers’ Collective is a cooperative space bursting with imagination and handmade crafts! Inspired by Athens and its urban scene, three women have joined forces to offer original art prints, jewelry, bags, accessories, homeware, and more. Explore their cooperative space in Kipseli neighbourhood or shop online to find their unique products.

Info: 60 Ioannou Drosopoulou St., Kipseli

T.: +30 21 1182 6443 // Ig: contrust_collective

Fb: Contrust Collective //www.contrustcollective.com

1km / VICTORIA METRO LINE 1

Greek handcrafted sunglasses

For over six decades, Mimis, a proudly Greek enterprise has specialized in crafting handmade acetate eyewear. Explore the extensive range of sunglasses, boasting a vintage aesthetic spanning from the 1930s to the 1990s. The styles are always elegant and never go out of fashion. Rest assured, the lenses offer exceptional quality and absolute UV protection, all at surprisingly affordable prices ranging from 65 to 80 euros. Don’t miss the exclusive collection of vintage frames from the 1980s and 1990s, now available solely at the physical store.

Info:

2 Gladstonos St., Omonia Square

T.: +30 210 3832431

Ig: mimisoptics www.mimisgialia.gr

180m / OMONIA METRO LINE 1&2

SHOPPING HOPPING

THE WHOLE WORLD IN ONE CITY

Explore the entire world in a single city. Athens is a genuinely multicultural city, full of diversity. While you’re here, you can experience flavours from around the globe and discover customs from other countries. From Polish markets to Pakistani salons and Indian restaurants, Athens feels like it has the entire world within it.

POLISH MINI-MARKETS:

Lose yourself in the world of Polish cuisine at the mini-markets around Larissa Station and Victoria Square, where you can discover a slice of Poland in the heart of Athens. Some of the delicacies and Polish beers will definitely pleasantly surprise you.

PAKISTANI HAIRDRESSING

SALONS: Experience the artistry of any Pakistani hairdressing salon, located near Platia Amerikis and throughout the Patisia district, where polite and skilled professionals can transform your style in unexpected ways.

AFRICAN SHOPS & RESTAURANTS:

Kipseli, Victoria, and Platia Amerikis are inner city neighbourhoods with blossoming African communities. Don’t miss the chance to explore the rasta and wig salons or shop at the mini markets offering products from various African countries, along with the captivating scent of the characteristic aromatic sticks.

A cannabis world experience

BIO REWILD

Recognizing the beneficial properties of cannabis, Bio Rewild proposes the benefits of nature for humans, over chemicals. Discover care products, edibles, and flowers based on CBD and other cannabinoids. Choose from a big selection of cold and hot teas tailored to your everyday needs and preferences. Also, check the wide variety of soothing oils with healing properties, crafted to support your wellness. Enhance your lifestyle through natural remedies!

Info:

7 Anapafseos St., Mets

T.: +30 211 4138 212

Ig: biorewild // Fb: Biorewild

500m / ACROPOLIS METRO LINE 2

Adorn your body with memories

LE PETIT MAGIQUE

Le Petit Magique is the brainchild of designer Katerina Roumelioti. Here, handmade silver jewelry of the highest quality is born. Her collections include stylish modern pieces as well as playful references to the Greek islands, the Aegean sea and its inhabitants. There is even a kid collection, perfect if you’re looking for original and fun souvenirs! You are always invited to her showroom and atelier, to take a peek at the production process and enjoy a view of Acropolis from the balcony. Le Petit Magique-Jewelry filled with summer memories!

Info:

Romvis 13, 5th floor, office 7 & 13

T.: +30 697 988 8545

Ig: le_petit_magique

Fb: Le Petit Magique

E-shop: www.lepetitmagique.gr

550m / SYNTAGMA METRO LINE 2, 3

SHOPPING HOPPING

FROM ICONIC STREETS TO HIDDEN ALLEYWAYS

Athens, the vibrant capital of Greece, has a plethora of commercial streets catering to diverse tastes and interests.

Among the most famous ones, Ermou Street stands out as a bustling hub of retail activity. Stretching from Syntagma Square to Monastiraki, Ermou Street offers a blend of international brands, local boutiques, and charming cafes. It is a favorite haunt for both locals and tourists seeking trendy fashion, souvenirs, or a leisurely stroll.

Another iconic street is Pandrossou, located next to Monastiraki Square, famous for its vibrant flea market. Here, visitors can discover an eclectic mix of antique treasures, handmade crafts, and authentic Greek souvenirs – a maze of stalls inviting explorers to uncover unique finds amidst the bustling atmosphere.

For those interested in luxury shopping, Voukourestiou Street in Kolonaki offers a sophisticated selection of designer boutiques and upscale jewelry stores. This upscale area attracts shoppers looking for haute couture and exclusive brands in an elegant setting.

But… In contrast to these prominent streets, Athens also harbors hidden gems in its small alleyways and lanes.

Anafiotika, nestled beneath the Acropolis, exudes quaint charm with its narrow pathways, whitewashed houses, and cozy tavernas. It offers a serene escape from the city’s hustle, perfect for leisurely walks and authentic Greek cuisine.

Additionally, Agias Irinis Square in Monastiraki, features tiny alleys lined with eclectic shops, art galleries, and bohemian cafes. This artsy spot attracts culture enthusiasts with its indie vibe and vibrant street art.

Adrianou Street in Plaka, winding through Athens’ oldest neighbourhood, combines history with contemporary charm. Renowned for its picturesque alleyways, traditional tavernas, and shops selling handmade jewelry and local crafts, it offers a glimpse into Athens’ rich cultural heritage.

ARTELIO KINITRO

The finest treasures await you, in Artelio. Explore a curated collection of handcrafted wonders, ranging from exquisite jewelry to captivating pottery and paintings, all crafted by talented Greek artisans. Elevate your Greek journey with these unique creations and take home the best presents for your loved ones.

Info:

63 Veikou St, Koukaki // T.: +30 694 47 62 158 www.artelio.art // Fb: Artelio // Ig: artelioart

350m / SYNGROU-FIX METRO LINE 2

If you are passionate about handmade creations and vibrant designs, visit Kinitro! Within its lively space, explore a diverse range of materials, including silver and more, sparking endless inspiration for your jewelry projects. Additionally, uncover pre-made jewelry pieces or customize them with your preferred materials. Mention seeing the ad in Free Athens for a 10% discount.

Info:

11 Karagiorgi Servias St. // T.: +30 210 32 57 640 Ig. kinitro_925 // www.kinitro-exartimata.gr

300m / SYNTAGMA METRO LINE 2,3

Handcrafted Art ATELIER DES CURIOSITÉS

FANOURAKIS ELENA

Atelier des Curiosités, nestled near the beautiful walk from Dionysius the Areopagite to the Parthenon in Athens, is your place for art. Discover a treasure trove of exquisite craftsmanship in our boutique, offering a curated selection of jewelry, ceramics, clothing, and accessories. Each piece reflects elegance and individuality, celebrating the fusion of art and style. Explore artisanal jewelry, meticulously crafted with passion, and a collection of rare antique ceramics, each with its own story. Immerse yourself in our exclusive clothing collection, where impeccable craftsmanship meets visionary design, transforming fashion into art.

Info:

3 Makri St., Acropolis // T.: +30 2109219588

Ig: atelier__des__curiosites

Fb: Atelier_des_curiosites www.fanourakis-elena.gr/

150m / ACROPOLIS METRO LINE 2

SHOPPING HOPPING

DON’T FORGET TO REMEMBER

Souvenirs from a country, whether for yourself or loved ones back home, often take top priority when starting a journey. Each country or city has its own unique characteristics that make it memorable and distinctive, and the mementos you collect should reflect this uniqueness.

It’s wise to steer clear of the overly touristy shops in the city center that offer generic souvenirs (although a small Acropolis replica is always a classic choice for any home). Unfortunately, many of these items are of poor quality, quite expensive, and look the same from one shop to another.

With a bit more exploration, especially if you wait a few days before shopping, you can discover gifts of exceptional beauty and originality. Many artisans channel their creativity into crafting special items like posters, bags, jewelry, cards, homeware, and more, which will evoke memories of your time in Athens in a uniquely imaginative way.

I encourage you to consider this seriously... The most meaningful souvenirs often come from experiences. A museum ticket from a cherished visit, a straw or another decorative item from your favorite cocktail, a lovely bag, a packaging from a delicious pastry, a dried flower (such as those from Athens’ iconic laurel trees), and countless other seemingly “useless” objects can still evoke fond memories.

Wear the change • Surf the future

SURFRITUALS

Born under Athens’ sun, Surfrituals is a brand created by friends passionate about travel, creativity, and enjoying life. They always aim to have a light environmental footprint, reflecting the urban surf lifestyle. Their designs are inspired by nature, culture, and global landscapes, each telling a unique summer story. They dream of building a community of like-minded individuals who embrace adventure, whether surfing, skating, or practicing yoga. They believe small changes have a big impact and pledge to donate some of the proceeds from this project to protect endangered species, indigenous cultures, beaches, and oceans. Stay stoked!

Info:

e-shop: www.surfrituals.com Ig: @surfrituals

Handmade treasures in Psiri

KARTOUSA

Discover the timeless charm of handmade treasures, unique jewelry, ornaments, and a variety of artworks and artifacts from Greek artisans, all carefully curated by the owner of Kartousa, Katerina Evangelidou, who is also a creator. Located in the neighbourhood of Psiri, this beautiful and tasteful shop stands against the fleeting and commercial, celebrating the enduring beauty of genuine creations and invites you to explore a world where the past meets the present seamlessly. Each piece here tells a story that’s why you’ll definitely leave Kartousa with cherished memorabilia.

Info:

9 Taki St., Psiri // www.kartousa.gr

T.: +30 210 32 47 525

Fb: Kartousa // Ig: kartousa_art_shop

400m / MONASTIRAKI METRO LINE 1 & 3

Sotiria

USEFUL LINKS AND NUMBERS

+30-210-720-1000

+30-210-628-0000

+30-210-745-6000

+30-210-777-8611

THE CITY FREE ATHENS

MEDICAL CLINIC

Located at the busiest commercial street in central Athens. Open daily from 07:00 to 23:00.

DOCTORSÕ VISITS TO HOTELS AND ACCOMMODATIONS

Available daily, day and night. Diagnostic tests conducted in our labs on a 24/7 basis.

EMERGENCIES AND POTENTIALLY SERIOUS CASES

Complete coordination of call center, doctors, ambulances, private hospitals. Goals:

– Patient safety

– Speed

– Your utmost convenience

– Minimizing medical care time

COMPREHENSIVE SUPPORT

From the beginning to the end of your health journey, our staff is with you every step of the way.

COLLABORATION WITH INSURANCE COMPANIES

You had the foresight to have travel insurance. We are committed to support you with it.