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The City
Athens’ heyday was around 400 years BC, that’s when most of the classical monuments were built. During the Byzantine and Turkish periods the city decayed into just an insignificant little village, only to become the capital of the newly-liberated Greece in 1833. Ahead of the 2004 Olympics, almost the entire infrastructure was transformed: the Metro, trams, new ring roads and viaducts have eased the pressure of heavy traffic.
Athens is still a rather messy and chaotic place — it wouldn’t be Athens otherwise — and despite all the improvements still retains a great deal of its oriental charm. The whole coastal stretch from Piraeus to the old Hellenikon airport has been improved with new plantings, viaducts and paths for walking. The Plaka district is becoming more and more popular and it is on the way to catching up with Psyrri, Gazi and Rouf when it comes to restaurants and cafes. Discover the beauties of the Anafiotika district, at the feet of the Acropolis, and visit the ancient village still housed in the midst of the city. In Exarchia, there is a somewhat in-your-face anarchic atmosphere around the Technical University. Meanwhile, Kolonaki is becoming more and more gentrified.
Do & See
Athens' unrivalled history and world-famous landmarks are just some of what this city has to offer. The difficult years inflicted by the economic crisis have only deepened the city's artistic soul and not a day goes by that Athens does not amaze its visitors.
The Acropolis and Its Surroundings
The Parthenon, the temple of Athena, is a UNESCO World Heritage Site and the major attraction of Athens. The Erechtheion displays the statues of the female Caryatids, though the original statues have been replaced by copies because of air pollution (the originals are in the new Museum).
On the southern slopes of the Acropolis lies the Odeon of Herodes Atticus, a Roman theatre with room for as many as 5,000 spectators. It is used during the annual Athens Festival for world-class ballet and music performances. The Theatre of Dionysus lies beside Herodes Atticus, and almost all the tragedies and comedies of Ancient Greece were written for this theatre.
Adresse: Acropolis, Athens
Telefon: +30 210 321 0185
E-post: [email protected]
Åpningstider: Summer: daily 8am–6:30pm
Billetter: Full €10
Roman Agora
In antiquity, the Agora played a major role as both a marketplace and a political centre. The Agora is dominated by the Stoa of Attalos and the Theseion, or Hephaisteion, dedicated to the God of metalworking and also to Theseus, one of the heroes of Greek mythology.
Adresse: Roman Agora, Athens
Telefon: +30 210 324 5220
E-post: [email protected]
Åpningstider: Summer: daily 8am–6:30pm
Billetter: Full €8
The Acropolis Museum
Well worth visiting and right at the foot of the Acropolis lies the new Acropolis Museum which provides valuable insights into the Greek mythology and Greek history. The museum restaurant offers panoramic views of the Acropolis and a 700 square meter public terrace commanding a breathtaking view of the historic hills of Athens.
Adresse: Dionysiou Areopagitou 15, Athens
Telefon: +30 210 9000 900
E-post: [email protected]
Åpningstider: April 1st — October 31st: Mon 8am–4pm, Tue–Sun 8am–8pm. November 1st — March 31st: daily 9am–5pm.
Billetter: €10 in the summer, €5 in the winter
Plaka Neighbourhood
Plaka feels like a small village at the very heart of the vibrant Greek capital. You will most likely walk through the neighbourhood on your way to or from the Acropolis, but its worth more than a passing glance. Plaka has a soul of its own and its small streets, flowery corners and pretty stairs brim with countless coffee shops.
Adresse: Plaka, Athens
The Panathenaic Stadium
The Panathenaic Stadium or Kallimarmaro was built in 330 BC and renovated for the 1896 Olympic Games. It is the world's oldest stadium which is still in use, and the only one in the world entirely built in white marble. It is from here that the Olympic Flame is delivered to all the Olympic games. It is the only stadium in the world built entirely of marble.
Adresse: Vasileos Konstantinou Ave., Athens
Telefon: +30 210 7522 9846
E-post: [email protected]
Åpningstider: March–October: daily 8am–7pm. November–February: daily 8am–5pm
Billetter: €5
National Archaeological Museum
The National Archaeological Museum, in Exarchia, is home to Ancient Greece’s most spectacular pieces. One room contains Schliemann’s finds from Mycenae, another has the famous frescoes from Santorini on display. There is also a fine collection of idols from the Cyclades and ceramics from all parts of the Mediterranean.
The star of the museum is the Antikythera Mechanism—an ancient hand-powered orrery, described as the oldest example of an analogue computer used to predict astronomical positions and eclipses decades in advance. This scientific marvel is dated somewhere between 205 and 60 BCE.
Adresse: 28th of October (Patission) str. 44, Athens
Telefon: +30 21 3214 4800
E-post: [email protected]
Åpningstider: November 1st — March 31st: Tue 1pm–8pm, Wed–Mon 9am–4pm. April 1st — October 31st: Tue 12:30pm–8pm, Wed–Mon 8am–8pm
Billetter: €12 in the summer and €6 in the winter
Benaki Museum of Greek Culture
Benaki is a history museum with Greek art and objects from the Stone Age right up to the War of Independence against the Ottoman Empire. It presents its pieces over three floors and apart from seasonal exhibitions, the museum offers events, courses and publications to educate audiences of all ages. The annexed cafe-restaurant welcomes you in a relaxed ambience where to enjoy dinners, lunches or breaks before exploring the museum.
Adresse: Koumbari St. & Vas. Sofias Ave. 1, Athens
Telefon: +30 210 367 1000
E-post: [email protected]
Åpningstider: Mon, Wed, Fri & Sat 10m–6pm, Thu 10am–midnight, Sun 10am–4pm, Tue closed
Billetter: Full €12
Glyfada and the seaside
Breath in the maritime air around Glyfada, a pretty beach town with many restaurants, shops, bars and cafes, accessible from Athens by bus and tram. In Glyfada and further on the Athens Riviera you will find many beaches, ideal for swimming or sunbathing.
Adresse: Glyfada, Athens
Mount Lycabettus
Mount Lycabettus (in Greek: Lykavittos, Λυκαβηττός) sits right in the centre of Athens, rising 277 meters (908 feet) above sea level. Getting yourself up to this altitude gives you an exquisite 360° view over Athens, the Aegean sea and the ships in Piraeus. When the sky is clear, you can see all the way to the mountains in Peloponnese. As well as views, there is also a chic cafe-restaurant, a 19th century Chapel and an amphitheatre.
Adresse: Mount Lycabettus, Athens
Philopappos Hill
For a nice walk or picnic a bit outside the busy streets and squares of central Athens you can head to the Philopappos Hill. It offers a great view over the city and maybe the best view of the Acropolis, just far enough to embrace it all while avoiding the tourists crowd and close enough to see the beauty of its architecture.
Adresse: Philopappos Hill, Thisseio, Athens
Transport: Thissio or Acropolis metro stations
The Temple of Hephaestus
The Temple of Hephaestus is a well-preserved ancient Greek temple built in 450 BC, dedicated to the God Hephaestus, the protector of blacksmiths, craftsmen, artisans, sculptors, metals, metallurgy, fire and volcanoes. This may be one of the most well-preserved temples, not only in Greece, but in all of Europe.
Adresse: Thissio, Athens
The Erechtheion
Named after Erechtheus, king of Athens and foster son of Athena, Erechtheion is an ancient Greek temple on the north side of the Acropolis dedicated to both Athena and Poseidon. This intricate temple was designed to accommodate the radically uneven ground on the site and to avoid disturbing sacred shrines like the altars to Poseidon, the sacred olive tree, a well containing sea water, the tomb of Kekrops, and the Pandrosion sanctuary.
Adresse: Acropolis, Athens
Museum of Cycladic Art
The gorgeous and elegant Museum of Cycladic Art contains more than 3,000 artefacts of Cycladic, Ancient Greek and Cypriot art pieces, on display over four floors. This is an interesting museum to visit to get a greater understanding of this colourful culture.
Adresse: Neophytou Douka St. 4, Athens
Telefon: +30 210 7228 3213
E-post: [email protected]
Åpningstider: Mon, Wed, Fri & Sat 10am–5pm, Thu 10am–8pm, Sun 11am–5pm, Tue closed
Billetter: €8
Megaron Concert Hall
The Megaron, Athens' Concert Hall, was inaugurated in 1991 and it now houses four halls offering a variety of musical performances. It is famous for its top-notch spectacles and an impressive acoustic.
Adresse: Vasilissis Sofias & Kokkali, Athens
Telefon: +30 210 7282 333
E-post: [email protected]
Åpningstider: Box Office: Mon–Fri 10am–6pm, Sat & Sun two hours before the performance
Temple of Athena Nike
Temple of Athena Nike is located on the south-west corner of the Acropolis. It is one of the earliest pieces from the Ionic order, one of Greece's three classical architectures. Celebrating Athena The Victorious, it is anchored in Greek mythology.
Adresse: Acropolis, Athens
Cine Paris
Located right beneath the Acropolis, this open-air cinema operating on a roof reopened in 1986 after being closed for almost 20 years. Named in honor of its creator — a Greek hairdresser who lived in Paris — it truly is an exceptional spot to catch a movie.
Adresse: Kidathinaion St. 22, Plaka, Athens
Telefon: +30 210 322 2071
E-post: [email protected]
Åpningstider: May–October
Monastiraki Neighbourhood
Monastiraki, right under the Acropolis, is one of the oldest neighbourhoods of Athens and considered the heart of the city. Nowadays, it houses the local "Flea Market" as well as shops, cafes, eateries and touristic stores. It is one of the nicest areas to walk in but also one of the most crowded.
Adresse: Monastiraki, Athens
Old Monastery of Daphni
The Old Daphni Monastery was originally founded and built at the end of the 6th century, to the west of today's Athens. Surrounded by defence mechanisms, the monastery was extended with additional construction over time. The interior holds detailed mosaics and the complex is now a designated UNESCO World Heritage Site, which is worth the little detour by public transport.
Adresse: Iera Odos, Athens
Telefon: +30 210 581 155 8
E-post: [email protected]
Åpningstider: Wednesday - Sunday 8:00 - 15:30.
Transport: Metro line 3 to Agia Marina Station - from there - Bus lines 01, 811, 865, 836, 866 or 876 to stop Psyciatreio/Moni Dafniou
Odeon of Herodes Atticus
Part of the Acropolis, the Odeon of Herodes Atticus is a stone Roman theater. The structure was completed in 161 AD only to become a ruin a hundred years later. The amphitheatre went through a series of renovations throughout the centuries and now host a wide variety of cultural events. The venue is widely known by locals as simply Herodeon.
Adresse: Odeon Heroda Attyka, Dionysiou Areopagitou, Athens
Billetter: www.ticketservices.gr/en/herodeion
Anafiotika
Part of Plaka, Anafiotika is a scenic neighborhood of Athens on the northern slope of the Acropolis. Part of this area was destroyed in 1950s for archeological research. Today, there are only 45 old houses remaining, on the little unnamed streets from Stratonos to the Acropolis rock. It's a great example of the typical Cycladic architecture that gives to visitors the feel of Greek islands in the heart of the city.
Hellenic Motor Museum
Who knew that for a brief moment in the 1980s Greece had a flourishing auto industry? The Hellenic Motor Museum is the place to see a collection of historic and iconic cars, divided into antique, veteran, vintage, classic, modern and contemporary. The 1906 cherry red Model N Ford is the star of the show.
Adresse: Ioulianou 33, Athens
Telefon: +30 210 881 6187
E-post: [email protected]
Åpningstider: Mon–Fri 10am–2pm, Sat & Sun 11am–6pm
Billetter: General €10
Byzantine And Christian Museum
The Byzantine and Christian Museum in Athens houses more than 25,000 artefacts of Early Christian, Byzantine and Medieval times. Byzantine culture was almost entirely concerned with religious expression, so in the museum's collection you'll find pictures, scriptures, relief carvings, frescoes, pottery, fabrics, manuscripts.
Adresse: Leoforos Vasilissis Sofias 22, Athens
Telefon: +30 213 213 9517
Åpningstider: Wed–Mon 9am–5pm, Tue 1pm–8pm
Billetter: General €8
Athens War Museum
The Athens War Museum is run by the Greek Armed Forces. The exhibitions cover the history of war in all ages, from Myceanean conflicts all the way to the present day. Great displays of battle grounds, weapons, uniforms, heroic figures and personal items.
Adresse: Rizari 2-4, Athens
Telefon: +30 210 724 4464
E-post: [email protected]
Åpningstider: Daily 9am–7pm
Psyrri Neighbourhood
Psyrri is a gentrified neighbourhood known for its bohemian cafe-bars, live music taverns, artisanal boutiques, exotic spice bazaars and small number of hotels. It's one of the oldest quarters of Athens and used to be regarded as a dodgy place until the early 90s.
In the late 19th century, Psyrri used to be the ‘Bronx’ of Athens. ‘Koutsavakides’ (‘hobbler dudes’ in Greek) would walk the streets in their jackets worn on one sleeve and bully locals. You'll see this archetypical character show up in street art all over the neighbourhood.
Adresse: Centred around Heroes Square (Plateia Iroon), Athens
The Dora Stratou Dance Theatre
The Dora Stratou Dance Theatre is situated on the slopes of Philopappou Hill, just opposite the Acropolis Hill. The theatre gives 80-minute performances of dances from many parts of Greece and the islands. For a more immersive experience, take part in dancing classes, lectures and research programs all year round. In the summer, classes are often taught in English. Absolute beginners are welcome!
Adresse: Arakinthou 33, Filopappou Hill, Athens
Telefon: +30 210 921 2866
E-post: [email protected]
Åpningstider: May to September Wed–Sun
Dining
Food is at the centre of all activities in Greece and it is easy to understand why. The Greek cuisine, Mediterranean at heart and influenced by their Turkish neighbours, is fresh, honest, filling and absolutely delicious. Whether you are in for a tour of the best Greek Tavernas in town, looking for the tastiest gyros or want to try the new Greek cuisine, you might adjust to the local rhythm and spend a lot of time around the table.
In Athens and in Greece in general you can eat at any time of the day and late at night. Tavernas and Ouzerias (where you can drink local cocktails and usually hear traditional music) are also a key place for social life.
Here are some of the absolute best restaurants in Athens:
The Old Tavern of Psaras
The Old Tavern of Psaras (meaning, the old fisherman's Taverna) is Plaka's oldest restaurant. Indeed, the tavern fisrt openedits doors in 1898. They serves delicious Greek food at a price befitting the area, but with the benefit of being seriously beautiful. You can choose to seat in either of the old houses that are now the restaurant, or even in the pleasant courtyard in the shade of the trees.
Adresse: Erechtheos & Erotokritou St. 16, Athens
Telefon: +30 210 3218 733
E-post: [email protected]
Åpningstider: Daily noon–1am
To Kati Allo
To Kati Allo is a simple family owned tavern in the area next to the new Acropolis museum. A real tavern, with a friendly staff and which is open so late Plaka's waiters may come and keep you company. It is very popular amongst local: always a good indication in touristic cities like Athens.
Adresse: Chatzichristou 12, Athens
Telefon: +30 210 590 1455
Spondi
Visitors describe the upscale Spondi is the best restaurant in Athens — and in Greece. The French chef has put together the menu, and he has successfully cultivated a renowned wine cellar. Simplicity is the motto at this award winning restaurant.
Adresse: Pyrronos 5, Athens
Telefon: +30 210 756 4021
E-post: [email protected]
Avocado
Finding a vegetarian restaurant in this meat loving country might not be the easiest, but Avocado is a great option for vegetarian food. The products are with no added preservatives and they try to use as much organic food as possible. The food here is healthy, fresh and tasty and Avocado is well worth a visit even if you prefer meat dishes.
Adresse: Nikis 30, Athens
Telefon: +30 210 323 787 8
E-post: [email protected]
Åpningstider: Mon–Sat 12:30am–9:30pm, Sun noon–5pm
Gostijo Kosher Restaurant
Gostijo is Athens first kosher restaurant. Their specialities are Sephardic Mediterranean and Middle Eastern Kosher cuisine served in a lovely atmosphere. You can also hear some live music on some evenings and on location, you will find a Kosher mini-market in case you need.
Adresse: Esopou 10, Athens
Telefon: +30 210 323 3825
E-post: [email protected]
Oroscopo
Oroscopo is centrally located just opposite of the Divani Caravel Hotel on the square. Enjoy their uncomplicated and modern Greek, Italian and Mediterranean menu for breakfast, lunch or dinner. The food tastes great and all at a great price. Take a seat at their terrace to make the best of the place.
Adresse: Antinoros 42-44 (Caravel hotel square), Athens
Telefon: +30 210 723 8567
E-post: [email protected]
Åpningstider: Daily 1pm–midnight
Vezené
Veneze is a contemporary restaurant offering wood-fired Greek regional dishes and seafood. Try such excuisitely prepared delecacies as Wagyu carpaccio for starter, lamb chops, ibérico pluma and wagyu sirloin for mains. Great exclusive experience for a special occasion.
Adresse: Vrasida St. 11, Athens
Telefon: +30 210 723 2002
E-post: [email protected]
Åpningstider: Mon–Sat 6pm–midnight, Sun closed
Piazza Duomo
Even in Athens you can feel the call of Italy. At Piazza Duomo you can enjoy Italian classics while savouring great drinks and cocktails. A great place to drop those shopping bags and take a break.
Adresse: Mitropoleos 52, Athens
Telefon: +30 210 323 1290
E-post: [email protected]
Åpningstider: Mon–Saturday 7am–2am, Sun 8am–2am
CTC Urban Gastronomy
Do not let the prices put you off from trying CTC! it is a unique and peculiar experience you can only live there. The food is prepared with care and obvious passion, and presented in a way that is borderline art. And despite it being a fine dining place, CTC managed to keep its simplicity and it is a very relaxed place where the staff and chef are more than willing to spend some time with you.
Adresse: Plateon 15, Athens
Telefon: +30 210 722 8812
E-post: [email protected]
Åpningstider: Tue–Sat 7:30–midnight
Cinque
Cinque is the perfect spot for a tasting of Greek dips, olives, cheese and varieties of artisanal olive oils. Order a platter of cheese, panini, bruschetta or other seasonal dishes if you are already certain of what you like. Moreover, have a glass of the great red, rose or white wines this place has in stock.
Adresse: Agatharchou 15, Athens
Telefon: +30 215 501 7853
E-post: [email protected]
Åpningstider: Mon–Sat 6pm–midnight
Lithos
Lithos serves meze, salads and grilled dishes in a rustic venue with a gorgeous terrace. Great relaxed atmosphere for dinner with reasonable prices.
Adresse: Aesopou 17, Athens
Telefon: +30 210 324 7797
E-post: [email protected]
Åpningstider: Daily 5pm–midnight
Jaipur Palace
Jaipur Palace sits close to the Grand Hayatt Hotel. The restaurant serves tasty and authentic Indian tandoori dishes, fluffy rice and fragrant naan bread. There is also a substantial menu selection for vegetarians, as well as those who prefer their meals with a spicy touch.
Adresse: Leof. Andrea Siggrou 121, Athens
Telefon: +30 210 981 200 9
Åpningstider: Monday - Sunday 13:00 - 23:30.
Cafes
Drinking coffee in Greece is an institution, and Athens is no exception. You will find the cafes and their terraces full of people, laughter, cigarette smoke and animation everyday and all year long. Cafes here are the place to meet up with friends, relax, have long conversations about life and politics, or to play backgammon (when in Greece, call it "Tavli").
The most Greek coffee drink is without a doubt the frappé. It was invented at the 1957 Thessaloniki International Fair by Giannis Dritsas — a representative of the Nestlé company. It's basically instant coffee whipped with cold water until frothy, served on ice. If you're not an instant coffee lover, ask for the server to add some sugar and milk to your drink. It's quite a marvelous invention for hot summer days.
Or course, third wave coffee has made is to Athens as well. You can choose to sit at a trendy or alternative cafe, at a traditional kafeneio, or even at one of Greece's own coffee chains.
Here are some of the best cafes in Athens where you can chill with a cup of coffee and have lunch:
Exarcheia
Exarcheia, Athens' anarchist neighbourhood, has seen the youth of the city rise up against the power and injustice many times, and it has also unfortunately been the theatre of political drama.
Even though Exarcheia has kept intact its rebellious soul and keeps on its walls traces and street art as testimony of its agitated past — the area has softetened a bit and has become somewhat hipster. It is a cool place to hang out, go for a walk, meet locals, and have a coffee or a drink around the main square.
Adresse: Exarchia, Athens
Fresko Yogurt Bar
Greece and yogurt is a combination made in heaven. Try this staple Greek delicasy with honey, nuts, fruit or make your own personal mix. This yogurt bar is located just a few steps from the Acropolis and it serves the best products: local and fresh original Greek yogurt, the purest honey, artisanal jams and other toppings. You should also try their smoothies for your snack break to be complete.
Adresse: Dionysiou Areopagitou 3, Athens
Telefon: +30 210 923 3760
E-post: [email protected]
Åpningstider: Daily 7am–10pm
O Kostas
If you were looking for the best souvlakia (skewers, but the Athenian word for it is also the word for straw) and biftekis (local meatballs made with three different meats), you might just find them in this tiny restaurant. O Kostas is a very local place, genuine and delicious since 1946.
Adresse: Σουβλάκι Κώστας, Pentelis 5, Athens
Telefon: +30 210 322 8502
Åpningstider: Mon–Sat 10am–3:45pm, Sun closed
Louis Cafe
This traditional Greek cafeteria offers the best coffee experience in Greece. The atmosphere and decoration are very classic and you will see a few typical old Greek men in here, playing Backgammon (Tavli in Greek) and proudly wearing their Komboloi, strings of beads used to relieve stress. You can also hear some local musicians performing during the many concerts organized.
Adresse: Leonidou 87 & Mykalis, Athens
Telefon: +30 210 347 6926
Åpningstider: Sun–Thu 9am–2am, Fri–Sat 9am–3am
City Zen
City Zen in Monastiraki is one of the three coffee-bar-restaurants you can find around the area having a roof terrace granting a breath-taking view over the neighbourhood and the Acropolis. Open from morning until late in the night, City Zen is perfect for a coffee stop during the day, some drinks at night or food at any time.
Adresse: Mitropoleos 80, Athens
Telefon: +30 210 325 4942
E-post: [email protected]
Åpningstider: Daily 9am–00:30am
The Dark Side of Chocolate
Take your significant other or you inner chocolate monster to this place to drink chocolate drinks and deserts you have always dreamed of. Choose the type of chocolate, what to add to it (including surprising toppings such as basil or even alcohol), and enjoy. The Dark Side of Chocolate is great and the people working there are just as sweet as their drinks.
Adresse: Solonos 49, Athens
Telefon: +30 210 339 2348
E-post: [email protected]
Åpningstider: Mon, Wed & Thu 9am–11pm, Tue & Fri 8am–11pm, Sat 10am–10:30pm, Sun closed
Six d.o.g.s
Six d.o.g.s is an all day and night space devoted to culture and entertainment. It works as a cafe as well as a bar, and it's home to a Gig Space, a Project Space, a Bar, a Foyer, and a Garden. It has created a resolutely pop yet avant-garde spirit and hosts an average of 500 events per year.
Adresse: Avramiotou Str 6/8, Athens
Telefon: +30 210 321 0510
E-post: [email protected]
Åpningstider: Sun–Thu 10am–2:30am, Fri–Sat 10am–4:30am
Harvest Coffee & Wine
Hearty breakfast or brunch with tacos, burgers, sandwiches, fajitas or poached egg? Or do you prefer pasta, tapas or a salad for lunch or dinner? This restaurant/cafe packs an extensive menu of food and beverages for any time of day.
Adresse: Aiolou 64, Athens
Telefon: +30 213 025 2284
E-post: [email protected]
Åpningstider: Mon–Sat 8am–midnight, Sun 9am–8pm
Avdi Square
Avdi Square is one of the restaurant and cafe hotspots of Keramikos and Metaxourgio. This recently revitalized square captures the vibe of Athens with street parties and avant-garde art to social activism and skate bowls. Check out the Municipal Art Gallery while you're there.
Bars & Nightlife
Athens' bar scene brings is a neverending surprises. The nightlife extends way beyond the first morning lights. The Greeks know how to drink and to party, and Athens is the living and breathing image of this happy and joyful spirit.
From alternative bars to fancy clubs, pubs and traditional "ouzerias", follow the flow and experience one of the best nights of your life. Don't miss out on these fun spots in Athens:
The 7 Jokers
The 7 Jokers is a fantastic and quirky bar with top notch cocktails, Rolling Stones posters, art pieces and all sorts of eccentric objects. For those who like it old-school there is also a jukebox inside.
Adresse: Voulis St. 7, Athens
Telefon: +30 210 321 9225
Palenque
Palengue is a lively nightclub in Zografou district. Live latin music, Cuban vibes and Salsa dance classes — awesome summer night guaranteed.
Adresse: Oulof Palme 23, Athens
Telefon: +30 210 747 290 7
E-post: [email protected]
360° Cocktail bar
360° Cocktail bar serves great signature cocktails in a clean-cut industrial interior and a lush rooftop terrace with — you guessed it — panoramic views. You get the best view onto Monastiraki square and the Acropolis.
Adresse: Ifaistou 2, Athens
Telefon: +30 210 321 0006
E-post: [email protected]
Åpningstider: Mon–Fri 9am–3am, Sat & Sun 9am–4am
Gazarte
Gazarte is an incredible venue where you can watch a film, grab a bite, drink awesome cocktails, attend conferences or business parties, enjoy live music and browse book or — keeping the best for the end — have a drink on their rooftop terrace with a view over the techno-pole beyond Gazi while listening to their DJ.
Adresse: Voutadon St. 32/34, Athens
Telefon: +30 210 346 0347
E-post: [email protected]
Brettos Plaka
Brettos is easily recognisable by the colourful bottles that decorate the wall behind the bar and the original decor with wooden shelves, stone walls and barrels full of Ouzo and tsipouro. Brettos is also the oldest distillery in Athens.
Adresse: Kydathinaion St. 41, Athens
Telefon: +30 210 323 2110
E-post: [email protected]
Åpningstider: Mon–Sun 10am–2am
A for Athens Cocktail Bar
A for Athens is one of the most famous bars in Athens for their rooftop terraces and offering a great view over Monastiraki square and the Acropolis. It is difficult to say which is the best, because they are equally excellent. Do not hesitate then to visit these two places to drink a delicious cocktail while enjoying the view of the city.
Adresse: Miaouli 2-4, Athens
Telefon: +30 210 324 4244
E-post: [email protected]
Mosaiko Cocktail bar
Mosaiko brings you good vibes and indie music. Grab a cup of coffee or one of the bar's signature drinks. Note that Mosaiko is in Glyfada, Athens' closeby seaside town, but that only makes this cafe-bar more pleasant.
Adresse: Laodikis 30, Glyfada
Telefon: +30 210 898 3208
E-post: [email protected]
Åpningstider: Mon–Sat 9:30am–00:30am, Sun 8am–00:30pm
The Clumsies
The Clumsies is one of Athens' most trendy bars. With its classy and peculiar decor, complemented by a friendly and relaxed atmosphere with top-notch service, this place is a real must. You will find amazing cocktails prepared by true artists.
Adresse: Praxitelous 30, Athens
Telefon: +30 210 323 2682
E-post: [email protected]
Åpningstider: Sun–Thu 10am–2am, Fri & Sat 10am–4am
Baba au rum
Baba au rum — whose initials form the word "BAR" — stands out among all the bars in Athens. It has also been named one of the best bars in the world and received several awards for its amazing rums and original cocktails. Located right between Monastiraki and Syntagma, it is the perfect place to start a crazy night in town.
Adresse: Klitiou 6, Athens
Telefon: +30 211 710 9140
E-post: [email protected]
Åpningstider: Daily 7pm–3am
The Gazi District
The Gazi is the new cool place to be in Athens. The area is centred around the old city gas works, now serving as a cultural centre — Technopolis. The construction of the Kerameikos subway station took a long while, but now it delivers passengers to the epicentre of the district, where the nightlife is vibrant and seemingly never stops.
Adresse: Kerameikos park, Athens
Shopping
It is almost unbelievable that Athens is not yet consecrated as one of the best fashion and shopping destination of Europe. It has everything the other capitals are so proud of: international brands, luxury products and major names, designer shops, smaller and more original boutiques — all showcased in pleasant walkable streets and neighbourhoods, usually with lower prices than cities such as Paris, Milan or London. Even though years ago the city was hit hard by the crisis and many small shops had to close, it still offers plenty of shopping opportunities, in and around the centre.
Greek products to buy
If you want to bring your loved ones, or yourself, a typically Greek souvenir here are a few suggestions:
– alcohol: look for Ouzo, Tsipouro and Raki, local alcohols that come in small bottles so you can even bring them in your carry-on.
– food: Greek pastries and loukoums are always a must. And of course, the olive oil here tastes nothing like what you can find back home. For something less known, grab a box of mastiha — natural resin obtained from the mastic trees of Chios island and used as the world’s first chewing gum.
– knick-knacks: typical Greek objects include the "Evil eye" meant to drive away the "bad eye" and its negative effect, worry beads (or Kompoloi), an ornate set of backgammon.
Shopping Streets
The ultimate shopping street in Athens is Ermou Street, departing from Syntagma square. There, you can find all the classic brands such as H&M and similar department stores. If you are not familiar with shopping in Greece, check out the Hondos Center —a local cosmetic chain with good prices compared to other European countries.
Voukourestiou, Patriarchou Ioakim, Skoufa, Tsakalof, Kanari and the side streets around Kolonaki are other options for shopping. There are many designer clothes, more expensive boutiques and jewellers.
Adresse: Ermou, Athens
Athens Heart Mall Emporiko Centro
Athens Heart Mall Emporiko Centro is an exclusive galleria of several floors with designer brands, fashion, beauty, technology, home equipment, jewellery. It is the biggest mall in central Athens, hosting in winter an ice rink. Don't forget to take a look at the ceiling during your visit.
Adresse: Piraeus 180, Taurus Hamosterna junction, Athens
Telefon: +30 210 341 4105
E-post: [email protected]
Åpningstider: Mon–Sat, Sun closed
Athinas Street — The Central Municipal Athens Market
In the middle of Athinas street, which runs between Monastiraki and Omonia square, there is the covered market hall. The market occupies a whole block, with a fish market in the middle. All around are butchers and spice shops, and around the market are several simple but good places to eat.
Adresse: Athinas Street, Athens
Åpningstider: Mon–Sat 7am–6pm, Sun closed
Notos Galleries
Notos is a Greek department store chain offering a vast array of products, from fashion and accessories to cosmetics, house objects and more. It is a bit upmarket but you can still find various styles and prices. You can find the bigger one close to the Omonia square.
Adresse: Stadiou & Aiolou 105, Athens
Telefon: +30 210 324 5811
E-post: [email protected]
Åpningstider: Mon–Fri 10am–8:30pm, Sat 10am–7pm, Sun closed
Shopping with a Sea View
If you like to combine shopping with other pleasures, you might want to go for a stroll in the small city of Glyfada, where you can also find many shops only a few steps away from the beaches and the sea. Glyfada is perfect for a sunny day, and is also one of Athen's most prosperous suburbs. While there, check out their beautiful Orthodox Church of Saint Constantine.
Adresse: Glyfada, Athens
The Loom
If you want to give your house a new appeal, The Loom is the right shop to go to in Athens. Here you will find a huge selection of stylish carpets, blankets and pillows with unique patterns and original styles. And if you are thirsty, you should know that there is always a bottle of red wine waiting for the customers.
Adresse: Adrianou St. 94, Athens
Telefon: +30 210 323 8540
E-post: [email protected]
Åpningstider: Sun–Fri 9:30am–9pm, Sat 9:30am–11pm
Melissinos Art
Located near Monastiraki Square, this store is a must in Athens, especially if you want to know more about the story of ancient Greek craftsmen. Sandals and jewellery are created by combining art and craft in a way that each product is unique — and all at very reasonable prices.
Adresse: Tzireon St. & Athanasiou Diakou 16, Athens
Telefon: +30 694 459 7307
E-post: [email protected]
Åpningstider: Mon noon–5pm, Tue–Sat 10am–5pm, Sun closed
Aphrodite Jewellery
This elegant store displays beautiful jewellery pieces, across a broad price range. The owner, Nikolopoulos George, is also available to tell you the story behind of each item, including the production process.
Adresse: Ifestou 13, Monastiraki, Athens
Telefon: +30 210 321 9900
E-post: [email protected]
Pantopolion
Pantopolion is a traditional grocery store with authentic Greek food specialities. And if that's not enough, the store also offers a huge variety of typical beverages, such as tsipouro, tsikoudia or Greek beers and liquors, and also a wide range of honey and jams to sweeten your breakfasts or your afternoon breaks.
Adresse: Dimitrakopoulou 34, Athens
Telefon: +30 210 325 4890
E-post: [email protected]
Åpningstider: Daily 10am–10pm
Forget me Not
This store consists of two rooms, the stone and the white room, where you can choose among a variety of items showing the best Greek design. The products include clothes, bags, shoes, stationery items and also home decor items, all of them being high quality products. The store assortment is updated with new brand-name items every day, so don't hesitate to come twice if you're in Athens for many days.
Adresse: Adrianou St 100, Athens
Telefon: +30 210 325 3740
E-post: [email protected]
Åpningstider: Winter: daily 10am–8pm; Summer: daily 10am–10pm
Olive Tree Natural Cosmetics
Olive Tree Natural Cosmetics' assortment holds a wide variety of natural Greek cosmetics based on olive oil. Products for facial, body and hair care as well as bathing accessories and perfumes of good quality are on offer for people of all skin and hairtypes. It's a cool little place for souvenir shopping.
Adresse: Adrianou 65, Athens
Telefon: +30 210 323 3002
E-post: [email protected]
Åpningstider: Mon–Sat noon–6pm, Sun closed
Mastiha Shop
Mastiha shop offers a natural cosmetic products with produced from the mastic trees of Chios. Try their eco-friendly soaps and creams, essential oils, liqueurs, delicacies. This shop is centrally located close to Syntagma Square but there are other locations including at the Athens airport.
Adresse: Panepistimiou 6 & Kriezotou St., Athens
Telefon: +30 210 363 2750
Åpningstider: Mon–Fri 9am–9pm, Sat 10am–6pm, Sun closed
Tourist Information
Passport / Visa
Greece can be visited visa-free for up to 90 days by citizens of Australia, New Zealand, Japan, South Korea, Taiwan, Malaysia, Israel, UAE and most countries in America. If you are unsure whether or not you need to apply for a visa, we recommend contacting the embassy or consulate in your country. International (non-Schengen) travelers need a passport that is valid for at least 3 months after the end of their trip in order to enter the Schengen zone. Citizens of Schengen countries can travel without a passport, but must have a valid ID with them during their stay.
Best Time to Visit
Greece is a tourist destination beloved worldwide, and summer is the most crowded season of all, especially in July and August. Spring is, perhaps, the best season to travel to Greece, as the main cities such as Athens are not so crowded and the prices are quite a bit lower.
June and September are the best months to visit Athens when the beaches around the capital are full of entertainment. If you love hiking, don't miss Athens in autumn.
Athens International Airport
Athens International Airport (ATH) is located at Spata, 33 kilometres (20 miles) southeast of Athens. A taxi ride to the city-centre will cost a flat rate of €38 between 5am and 12am and €54 between 12am and 5am. The fixed fares include the basic fare, VAT, extra luggage charges and road tolls.
The Metro's Line 3 (Blue Line) Nikaia–Airport is another option to go to the centre. The journey to Syntagma takes around half an hour.
Airport buses are made available to Syntagma (X95), Pireaus port (X96), Kifissou Avenue (X93) and Elliniko (X97). The travel time to Syntagma and the other areas in town takes around 1 hour and around 1,5 hours to Pireaus port. Check the hours on: www.athensairportbus.com/en
Adresse: Athens International Airport, Athens
Telefon: +30 210 353 0000
Public Transport
The Metro stations are well worth seeing as they are kept spotlessly clean. At the Syntagma and Acropolis stations you will find a large collection of antiquities on display.
There is a tram from the centre (Syntagma) running along the coast to Glyfada (50 minutes) and Voula (60 minutes).
Buses, trolley buses and the Metro run until around midnight. The tram runs between 5:30am and 1am (until 2:30am on Friday and Saturday). Airport buses all run 24/7. The airport bus tickets are not valid on other public transport services but only for a single journey.
Ferries out to the island leave from the harbour in Piraeus or from Rafina.
Taxi
There are lots of taxis, but it is normal to share one with other tourists in order not to be surprised if the driver picks up additional passengers along the road who are going in the same direction. The drivers have taximeters and fixed prices.
Uber has been banned in Athens and you only have access to Uber Taxi.
Post
Stamps can be bought in most tobacconists and kiosks selling postcards.
Syntagma Square has a full service post office right across from the Parliament building.
Adresse: Greek Post (ELTA), Mitropoleos 2, Athens
Telefon: +30 210 324 5970
Åpningstider: Mon–Fri 7:30–8:30pm, Sat & Sun closed
Pharmacy
In case of a medical emergency you should phone 166 for an ambulance. Greek pharmacies aren’t usually open in the afternoon or at weekends.
Bacacos (or Mpakakos) pharmacy is centrally located close to Omonia Square.
Adresse: Φαρμακείο Μπακάκος, Agiou Konstantinou 3, Athens
Telefon: +30 210 523 2631
Åpningstider: Mon–Fri 8am–9pm, Sat 8am–8am, Sun closed
Electricity
Greece uses the Type F electrical plug with two round pins, same as in many countries in Continental Europe. The standard voltage is 230 volts, but some hotels have special plugs for 110 or 120-volt shavers.
Telephone
Country code: +30
Area code: 210
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