Top Things To Do In Psirri Psirri is one of Athens’ nightlife districts, packed with creative stores, quaint restaurants, picturesque cafés and ouzeries, and bars where drinking and people-watching are the main activities. In short, Psirri is the place where creativity, old-time charm and a good party are celebrated without shame. Of course, there are so many small cafés and bars you could visit but there is so much more to discover. Here’s a small guide to the things you should do in Psirri.
Shop Till You Drop Melissinos Art – The Poet Sandal Maker Located on the narrow little road of Agia Thekla, Stavros Melissinos’ sandal workshop is definitely worth a visit. Now managed by his son Pantelis, the shop is an attraction in itself. Stavros, a poet, has seen many celebrities in his small shop, such
as Sophia Loren, Jacqueline Onassis Kennedy, Anthony Quinn and Gary Cooper. His designs are influenced by Greek mythology and are based on the footwear ancient Greeks used to wear; while Pantelis, a Parsons School of Design alumni, is also a poet, a playwright and a costume designer and is the best source of information if you want to know more about Greek politics and the crisis. Drop by for a chat, and buy a pair of genuine leather sandals made by a legend. Melissinos Art – The Poet Sandal Maker, 2, Agias Theklas str, Athens, Greece +30 210 321 9247
Geniko Emborio Eklekton Proionton Naxos The island of Naxos and Psirri have been long connected, starting when Naxiotes came to settle in Athens and worked in the construction sector. Nowadays, the Sunday before Easter, Psirri hosts the Naxos Lamb and Cheese market. But if you miss your chance, you can still buy unique delicacies and cheeses from the island at the Geniko Emborio Eklekton Proionton Naxos (The General Commerce of Exceptional Produce of Naxos), as well as fruits and vegetables. Geniko Emborio Eklekton Proionton Naxos, 14, Agias Theklas str. Athens, Greece
Sabater Hermanos/Jabones Naturales After the success of this small family business in Buenos Aires and Barcelona, the Sabater siblings, Eliana, Martin and Sebastian, opened this colorful store in the heart of Psirri selling fresh-smelling soaps and soap products. Classic fragrances, such as magnolia, rose and lavender mingle with exotic and unusual ones: cannabis, chocolate or ginger. Sabater Hermanos, 31, Ag. Anargyron str, Athens, Greece +30 210 331 6824
B612 If you are looking for a cool gift for yourself, your sister or your BFF, or a souvenir to bring back home, head to B612. This cute, handmade jewelry and accessories store is full of unique and creative pieces. Forget that evil-eye bracelet that everyone has and pick one of these little babies. Eye-catching and totally original. B612, 35, Karaiskaki str, Athens, Greece +30 210 325 5040
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Great Escape Athens If you enjoy mystery and puzzles, then you should definitely check out the Great Escape Athens. This real life escape game is just what you need for an hour of fun. Your goal is to make your ultimate escape by using your mind, to solve mysteries with your friends or, why not, to make some new friends as you find your way to freedom. The Great Escape Athens, Lepeniotou str., Athens, Greece +30 213 0354 432
Get Lost With An Insider Explore what one of the most artsy neighborhood has to offer. Take a three-hour insider tour of Psirri, but also Exarchia and a bit of Kolonaki. Learn all the secrets and stroll around one the best museums of Athens: the open-air museum of street art. No entrance fee, all you have to do is look up and around and enjoy. Book your tour online here or here.
Cater To Your Sweet Tooth Little Kook Step into Little Kook and you’ll be instantly be transported to a world of fairy tales and sweet wonders. With its impressive décor (in and out), this small café has a menu featuring the three Cs (cakes, cupcakes and crepes) and tasty beverages (skip the coffee and try the hot chocolate instead). And even if you’re trying to watch what you eat, know that the cake portions are – thankfully or unfortunately – not too large, so indulging in your sweet treat won’t be such a devastating experience. Little Kook, Karaiskaki 17, Athens, Greece +30 210 321 4144
Serbetia tou Psirri On the other hand, if big portions are what you are into, head to Serbetia tou Psirri, an old-time favorite among many Athenians. You will feel at home (or at least in your grandma’s kitchen) and get to taste traditional desserts dishes from all over the
country. Portions are big, prices are appropriate and the place also has a terrace for those warm sunny days. Your Instagram feed will definitely get sweeter. Ta Serbetia tou Psirri, 3, Aisxylou str., Athens, Greece +30 210 324 5862
Nancy’s Sweet Home This shop, also known as Serbetospito is another highly regarded pastry shop and café in Psirri. From traditional sweets with an oriental touch to cakes and even ice creams, Nancy has it all. The portions are big in size and flavor… An excellent option for dessert after dinner at one of the nearby tavernas. Nancy’s Sweet Home (Serbetospito tis Nancy),1, Iroon square str, Athens, Greece +30 210 321 1323