Athens Insider's Guide

Tran Van Phi
Athens Insider's Guide

First Thing First: Coffee

One such misconception is that Athenians mostly drink frappé (frothy, cold instant coffee). In fact, most Greeks ditched frappé (their own invention) 20 years ago and are presently ‘freddo’ enthusiasts: everything espresso and cappuccino, with or without sugar, served deliciously cold. Cold brew filter coffee is also gaining popularity and specialty or ‘third wave’ cafés are turning up everywhere.
TAF’s well-trained baristas are regularly awarded in international coffee challenges. The ‘house style’ combines light roasting with highly concentrated brewing, which allows for a rich, aromatic and quite acidic and fruity taste that seems to linger forever. Try the no-nonsense ‘Competition’ house blend with its nutmeg and dried apricot undertones, or the affordable and fabulous "Rosebud" with hints of cinnamon, dark chocolate and berries. TAF also offers exciting single estate selections from around the globe that change every week.
20 warga lokal merekomendasikannya
Taf Coffee
7 Emmanouil Benaki
20 warga lokal merekomendasikannya
TAF’s well-trained baristas are regularly awarded in international coffee challenges. The ‘house style’ combines light roasting with highly concentrated brewing, which allows for a rich, aromatic and quite acidic and fruity taste that seems to linger forever. Try the no-nonsense ‘Competition’ house blend with its nutmeg and dried apricot undertones, or the affordable and fabulous "Rosebud" with hints of cinnamon, dark chocolate and berries. TAF also offers exciting single estate selections from around the globe that change every week.
This unassuming joint is at once the smallest, cheapest, and best espresso bar in Athens
8 warga lokal merekomendasikannya
KAYA
7 Voulis
8 warga lokal merekomendasikannya
This unassuming joint is at once the smallest, cheapest, and best espresso bar in Athens
Huge varieties of beans to choose from, if you are confused, ask the helpful baristas, they're super friendly and nice. Best time to come? The beginning of the laiki in the same neighborhood every Saturday morning
13 warga lokal merekomendasikannya
The Coffee Tree
89 Char. Trikoupi
13 warga lokal merekomendasikannya
Huge varieties of beans to choose from, if you are confused, ask the helpful baristas, they're super friendly and nice. Best time to come? The beginning of the laiki in the same neighborhood every Saturday morning
Very good coffee, of course, but any day when you feel like a healthy mix of muesli and yogurt, this is the place to go.
Flatwhite
142 Thessalonikis
Very good coffee, of course, but any day when you feel like a healthy mix of muesli and yogurt, this is the place to go.
Cute back patio, great coffee, good selection of books. Could be a great space to work
PAIR
6 Athanasiou Diakou
Cute back patio, great coffee, good selection of books. Could be a great space to work
Great coffee goes with lovely vibe, super friendly staff and delicious snacks!!
LET IT BEE
13 Eptanisou
Great coffee goes with lovely vibe, super friendly staff and delicious snacks!!
Great to visit in the morning, grab a coffee and sit in the hidden backyard.
Cultivos Kypseli
Great to visit in the morning, grab a coffee and sit in the hidden backyard.
Across from our Vourvachi apartments, this cafe serves one of the best espresso in Athens and their treats are to die for
Fika coffee & croissant
Across from our Vourvachi apartments, this cafe serves one of the best espresso in Athens and their treats are to die for

Athens Art Galleries & Museums

A walk through the world-famous cradle of art and history should definitely include visits to several museums. Loaded with them, Athens offers fascinating parts of Greek culture hosting unique exhibitions. Athens is also heaven for art-lovers. The capital’s art scene is red-hot and Athenian galleries are a great place to eavesdrop on what local artists think and feel about current issues. A city art insider distills the vibrant gallery circuit in Athens.
Discover a mix of contemporary photography, painting and mixed media by rising stars like Petros Efstathiadis and Manolis Daskalakis-Lemos
CAN Christina Androulidaki Gallery
42 Panagiotou Anagnostopoulou
Discover a mix of contemporary photography, painting and mixed media by rising stars like Petros Efstathiadis and Manolis Daskalakis-Lemos
Eleftheria Tseliou's gallery is a bit of a speakeasy: it doesn't have a website, and it occupies an unassuming apartment on Irodotou Street. Passers-by will definitely miss it, but visitors in the know will ring the doorbell, climb the stairs to the lobby, and ring again. You’ll be greeted by the gallerist herself and rewarded with a careful edit of contemporary art, spanning several generations of talented Greek artists. Eleftheria Tseliou has run this Kolonaki gallery since 2013, and has a keen eye for young and old artists who produce cutting-edge work using traditional media—like painting, drawing and clay—in new ways.
Eleftheria Tseliou Gallery
3 Iraklitou
Eleftheria Tseliou's gallery is a bit of a speakeasy: it doesn't have a website, and it occupies an unassuming apartment on Irodotou Street. Passers-by will definitely miss it, but visitors in the know will ring the doorbell, climb the stairs to the lobby, and ring again. You’ll be greeted by the gallerist herself and rewarded with a careful edit of contemporary art, spanning several generations of talented Greek artists. Eleftheria Tseliou has run this Kolonaki gallery since 2013, and has a keen eye for young and old artists who produce cutting-edge work using traditional media—like painting, drawing and clay—in new ways.
For almost a century, the Armenian Kalfayan family has collected artefacts of Armenian culture, to preserve and document its traditions. The gallery represents some of the most important contemporary Greek artists, including the estates of historical figures of 20th century Greek art. It also showcases younger talent, both in its galleries and at art fairs internationally.
KALFAYAN GALLERIES
11 Charitos
For almost a century, the Armenian Kalfayan family has collected artefacts of Armenian culture, to preserve and document its traditions. The gallery represents some of the most important contemporary Greek artists, including the estates of historical figures of 20th century Greek art. It also showcases younger talent, both in its galleries and at art fairs internationally.
One of the most established contemporary art galleries in town. After opening its first space in Kolonaki in 1977, the Bernier Eliades gallery moved to its present location in Thissio in 1999, and then opened a second space in Brussels in 2016. Owners Jean Bernier and Marina Eliades have been instrumental in introducing international art currents to Greece, including the Arte Povera movement, minimalism, land art and conceptual art
The Bernier-Eliades Gallery
11 Eptachalkou
One of the most established contemporary art galleries in town. After opening its first space in Kolonaki in 1977, the Bernier Eliades gallery moved to its present location in Thissio in 1999, and then opened a second space in Brussels in 2016. Owners Jean Bernier and Marina Eliades have been instrumental in introducing international art currents to Greece, including the Arte Povera movement, minimalism, land art and conceptual art
Designed to offer the best conditions for its unique exhibits, the new Acropolis Museum is an absolute must-see. Being a gate to the glorious world of ancient Athens, it hosts priceless artifacts found on the Acropolis and spanning a period from the Mycenaean times up to the Roman and Early Christian eras. Visit the ground level to view the excavations below and walk through the galleries to admire masterpieces ranging from sculptures, inscriptions, finds from sanctuaries, and objects used in everyday life. Watch out for the program “A day at the Acropolis Museum” for a variety of exciting activities and have a meal at the restaurant on the second floor while enjoying the breathtaking views of the Sacred Rock
2190 warga lokal merekomendasikannya
Museum Akropolis
15 Dionysiou Areopagitou
2190 warga lokal merekomendasikannya
Designed to offer the best conditions for its unique exhibits, the new Acropolis Museum is an absolute must-see. Being a gate to the glorious world of ancient Athens, it hosts priceless artifacts found on the Acropolis and spanning a period from the Mycenaean times up to the Roman and Early Christian eras. Visit the ground level to view the excavations below and walk through the galleries to admire masterpieces ranging from sculptures, inscriptions, finds from sanctuaries, and objects used in everyday life. Watch out for the program “A day at the Acropolis Museum” for a variety of exciting activities and have a meal at the restaurant on the second floor while enjoying the breathtaking views of the Sacred Rock
Founded in 1889, this is undoubtedly one of the most important archaeological museums in the world, proving that history and art from ancient times still have the power to impress with their magnificence and beauty. The National Archaeological Museum is the biggest in the whole city hosting more than eleven thousand exhibits that cover a large chronological and geographical span. If you want to experience the panorama of Greek civilization to its fullest, save at least two days from your calendar to wander through the fascinating permanent collections filled with prehistoric items from the Aegean, frescoes from Thira, sculptures, vases, statues, jewelry, weapons and religious items. Do not miss the unique sculptures and the famous Antikythera device, probably used for astronomical observations, yet still shrouded in mystery. Last but not least, the epigraphic collection on the ground floor and the huge library with rare photographs and manuscripts will surely blow your mind.
1277 warga lokal merekomendasikannya
Museum Arkeologi Nasional
44 28is Oktovriou
1277 warga lokal merekomendasikannya
Founded in 1889, this is undoubtedly one of the most important archaeological museums in the world, proving that history and art from ancient times still have the power to impress with their magnificence and beauty. The National Archaeological Museum is the biggest in the whole city hosting more than eleven thousand exhibits that cover a large chronological and geographical span. If you want to experience the panorama of Greek civilization to its fullest, save at least two days from your calendar to wander through the fascinating permanent collections filled with prehistoric items from the Aegean, frescoes from Thira, sculptures, vases, statues, jewelry, weapons and religious items. Do not miss the unique sculptures and the famous Antikythera device, probably used for astronomical observations, yet still shrouded in mystery. Last but not least, the epigraphic collection on the ground floor and the huge library with rare photographs and manuscripts will surely blow your mind.
Impressive collection of Ancient Greek and Cypriot art. Learn about artistic techniques and customs of the Ancient Greeks through the most fun, creative ways and attend the special shows where archaeology meets contemporary art. Don’t forget to stop by the museum shop to get some exclusive gifts or the café for a light snack and coffee.
527 warga lokal merekomendasikannya
Museum Seni Cycladic
4 Neofitou Douka
527 warga lokal merekomendasikannya
Impressive collection of Ancient Greek and Cypriot art. Learn about artistic techniques and customs of the Ancient Greeks through the most fun, creative ways and attend the special shows where archaeology meets contemporary art. Don’t forget to stop by the museum shop to get some exclusive gifts or the café for a light snack and coffee.
Consisting of three separate museums, each specializing in certain subjects, the Benaki Museum is the oldest and main part in a majestic neoclassical building. Benaki is definitely one of the most important museums related to the history, art, and culture of ancient and modern Greece. While it is the ideal place for an insight into various eras, it also organizes some of the most amazing exhibitions of contemporary art. A must-visit tour for every art and history buff should be completed at the new departments hosting Neohellenic architectural archives and Islamic art collections, including objects collected by Benakis in Egypt.
566 warga lokal merekomendasikannya
Museum Mainan Benaki
138 Pireos
566 warga lokal merekomendasikannya
Consisting of three separate museums, each specializing in certain subjects, the Benaki Museum is the oldest and main part in a majestic neoclassical building. Benaki is definitely one of the most important museums related to the history, art, and culture of ancient and modern Greece. While it is the ideal place for an insight into various eras, it also organizes some of the most amazing exhibitions of contemporary art. A must-visit tour for every art and history buff should be completed at the new departments hosting Neohellenic architectural archives and Islamic art collections, including objects collected by Benakis in Egypt.

Neighbourhoods

Exarchia is one of the most colorful, mysterious and vibrant neighbourhoods of Athens. Its alternative lifestyle made it one of the most welcoming areas in Athens, where people can feel safer than in most other areas. The urban culture is being presented through multiple types of arts, while the most obvious and extremely impressive as mentioned above is the graffiti expression that decorate multiple of the area’s walls. Exarchia’s street art is actually known for promoting independence and respective values, such as freedom of expression, social awareness and the culture of resistance. On the pedestrian street of Valtetsiou is the classic taverna Rozalia with its outdoor garden and indoor seating for winter in an old neo-classic house. On the same colorful little street is another classic taverna called Vergina famous for its stuffed cabbage and Giantes, a modern taverna with organic food. Ouzadiko is a mezedopoulion on Themistikleous street that has live music on Friday and Saturday nights as well as Sunday afternoon. On Emanual Benaki #38 is the tiny ouzeri-fish restaurant called Lesvos which will make you think you are on that island. It's open day and night and can get very festive as often happens in places where people from Lesvos gather to drink ouzo and eat fish. OXO NOU also on Emmanouil Benaki is one of the most loved Cretan restaurant in Athens.
168 warga lokal merekomendasikannya
Exarcheia
168 warga lokal merekomendasikannya
Exarchia is one of the most colorful, mysterious and vibrant neighbourhoods of Athens. Its alternative lifestyle made it one of the most welcoming areas in Athens, where people can feel safer than in most other areas. The urban culture is being presented through multiple types of arts, while the most obvious and extremely impressive as mentioned above is the graffiti expression that decorate multiple of the area’s walls. Exarchia’s street art is actually known for promoting independence and respective values, such as freedom of expression, social awareness and the culture of resistance. On the pedestrian street of Valtetsiou is the classic taverna Rozalia with its outdoor garden and indoor seating for winter in an old neo-classic house. On the same colorful little street is another classic taverna called Vergina famous for its stuffed cabbage and Giantes, a modern taverna with organic food. Ouzadiko is a mezedopoulion on Themistikleous street that has live music on Friday and Saturday nights as well as Sunday afternoon. On Emanual Benaki #38 is the tiny ouzeri-fish restaurant called Lesvos which will make you think you are on that island. It's open day and night and can get very festive as often happens in places where people from Lesvos gather to drink ouzo and eat fish. OXO NOU also on Emmanouil Benaki is one of the most loved Cretan restaurant in Athens.
Hugging the base of the Acropolis, the area extends from Filomousson Square, roughly at the intersection of Kidathinaion and Adrianou Streets, down to Monastiraki. The best way to see Plaka is to simply wander its lanes, chasing glimpses of the Acropolis between the neoclassical buildings, Byzantine churches, cafes, restaurants, and souvenir shops. The prime sights are, of course, the Parthenon and the Acropolis Museum. But do give yourself time to visit smaller gems that highlight less familiar aspects of Greek culture, like Cycladic village Anafiotika, the Museum of Greek Folk Art, the Folk Instruments Museum and the fine private art and antiquities collections at the Frissiras and Kanellopoulos Museums.
1301 warga lokal merekomendasikannya
Plaka
24 Mnisikleous
1301 warga lokal merekomendasikannya
Hugging the base of the Acropolis, the area extends from Filomousson Square, roughly at the intersection of Kidathinaion and Adrianou Streets, down to Monastiraki. The best way to see Plaka is to simply wander its lanes, chasing glimpses of the Acropolis between the neoclassical buildings, Byzantine churches, cafes, restaurants, and souvenir shops. The prime sights are, of course, the Parthenon and the Acropolis Museum. But do give yourself time to visit smaller gems that highlight less familiar aspects of Greek culture, like Cycladic village Anafiotika, the Museum of Greek Folk Art, the Folk Instruments Museum and the fine private art and antiquities collections at the Frissiras and Kanellopoulos Museums.
Less touristically inclined than Monastiraki, the Thissio and Petralona districts are where the locals go to people-watch and eat out. On weekends, staking a table at the cafés along Iraklidon Street in Thissio can be a Herculean task—fitting for a street named after the hero’s descendants. But it’s not for a lack of seating: patrons here and on adjacent Akamantos Street like to linger over their drinks and meze as they deconstruct the latest film, book, or political development.
533 warga lokal merekomendasikannya
Thiseio
533 warga lokal merekomendasikannya
Less touristically inclined than Monastiraki, the Thissio and Petralona districts are where the locals go to people-watch and eat out. On weekends, staking a table at the cafés along Iraklidon Street in Thissio can be a Herculean task—fitting for a street named after the hero’s descendants. But it’s not for a lack of seating: patrons here and on adjacent Akamantos Street like to linger over their drinks and meze as they deconstruct the latest film, book, or political development.
Twilight is the best time for exploring Gazi and Keramikos, for the area’s subtle charms fade under the glare of the noonday sun. The half-light of the late afternoon awakens a wanderlust deepened by the sight of the rusted railway lines on the industrial side of Ermou Street.
264 warga lokal merekomendasikannya
Gazi
264 warga lokal merekomendasikannya
Twilight is the best time for exploring Gazi and Keramikos, for the area’s subtle charms fade under the glare of the noonday sun. The half-light of the late afternoon awakens a wanderlust deepened by the sight of the rusted railway lines on the industrial side of Ermou Street.
Koukaki is characterised by independent art galleries, eclectic themed coffee shops and international eateries. This is a perfect stop after you finish walking at the Acropolis and want to have a cup of coffee without the crowds as it is the residential neighborhood next to Plaka with many charming and quirky places
188 warga lokal merekomendasikannya
Koukaki
188 warga lokal merekomendasikannya
Koukaki is characterised by independent art galleries, eclectic themed coffee shops and international eateries. This is a perfect stop after you finish walking at the Acropolis and want to have a cup of coffee without the crowds as it is the residential neighborhood next to Plaka with many charming and quirky places
A vibrant and diversed neighborhood: Kypseli, one of the Athen's coolest neighborhoods, according to TimeOut. Walk 5 minutes from home to the famed square of Kypseli, Agiou Georgiou, to sip a cocktail and watch people from one of the many eateries and cafes, or to continue the stroll down Fokionos Negri Boulevard. The cafes and tavernas that line either side give a view of both new and old Greece, and every Sunday, the 1930s-built municipal market opens for pop-up shops, events and an organic food market. 10 minutes walk distance to the largest museum of its kind in Greece, The National Archaeological Museum which houses some of the most important artifacts from a variety of archaeological locations around Greece from prehistory to late antiquity. Pedion Areos, one of central Athens’s few parks, definitely worth a daytime wander.
13 warga lokal merekomendasikannya
Pasar Munisipal Kypseli
42 Fokionos Negri
13 warga lokal merekomendasikannya
A vibrant and diversed neighborhood: Kypseli, one of the Athen's coolest neighborhoods, according to TimeOut. Walk 5 minutes from home to the famed square of Kypseli, Agiou Georgiou, to sip a cocktail and watch people from one of the many eateries and cafes, or to continue the stroll down Fokionos Negri Boulevard. The cafes and tavernas that line either side give a view of both new and old Greece, and every Sunday, the 1930s-built municipal market opens for pop-up shops, events and an organic food market. 10 minutes walk distance to the largest museum of its kind in Greece, The National Archaeological Museum which houses some of the most important artifacts from a variety of archaeological locations around Greece from prehistory to late antiquity. Pedion Areos, one of central Athens’s few parks, definitely worth a daytime wander.

Sightseeing

The laiki (farmers' market) is held every Saturday on Kallidromiou Street in the Exarchia neighbourhood The setting is beautiful: Kallidromiou Street runs beneath the green hill of Strefi and is home to some of the of the prettiest buildings in Athens all in different architectural styles, from neoclassical to Bauhaus.
Kallidromiou
Kallidromiou
The laiki (farmers' market) is held every Saturday on Kallidromiou Street in the Exarchia neighbourhood The setting is beautiful: Kallidromiou Street runs beneath the green hill of Strefi and is home to some of the of the prettiest buildings in Athens all in different architectural styles, from neoclassical to Bauhaus.
Rising to nearly 300 metres, Lycabettus Hill (Lykavittos to the locals) towers over Athens. Starting your visit from Lycabettus will help you get your bearings, as the summit offers a panoramic view of Athens that on a clear day stretches to the island of Aegina. Agios Georgios, the medieval white-washed church at the top, is as small up close as it looks from afar and was originally a monk’s refuge. The short cable-car ride is the quickest way up, but walk down for different views of the city through the pines. Plan a stop at Ayii Isidori, the hill’s second church. It conceals the entrance to a tunnel that Greeks fighters used to escape the city during the independence revolt.
265 warga lokal merekomendasikannya
Bukit Lycabettus
Likavittou
265 warga lokal merekomendasikannya
Rising to nearly 300 metres, Lycabettus Hill (Lykavittos to the locals) towers over Athens. Starting your visit from Lycabettus will help you get your bearings, as the summit offers a panoramic view of Athens that on a clear day stretches to the island of Aegina. Agios Georgios, the medieval white-washed church at the top, is as small up close as it looks from afar and was originally a monk’s refuge. The short cable-car ride is the quickest way up, but walk down for different views of the city through the pines. Plan a stop at Ayii Isidori, the hill’s second church. It conceals the entrance to a tunnel that Greeks fighters used to escape the city during the independence revolt.
Strolling the Apostolou Pavlou pedestrian way is one of the simple joys of life in Athens. The modern capital’s architects, Eduard Schaubert and Stamatis Kleanthes, designed this ‘grand promenade’, which runs from the foot of Philopappos Hill to Agion Asomaton Square. It’s a marriage of ancient city and contemporary metropolis. Street artists, skateboarders, campaigners touting a cornucopia of causes, artisans and sightseers make up the colourful crowd, harking back through the centuries to the orators and merchants who once milled around the Pnyx and Agora. A modern landmark worth noting: the open-air Cine Thissio at No. 7, which has operated since 1938.
Apostolou Pavlou
Apostolou Pavlou
Strolling the Apostolou Pavlou pedestrian way is one of the simple joys of life in Athens. The modern capital’s architects, Eduard Schaubert and Stamatis Kleanthes, designed this ‘grand promenade’, which runs from the foot of Philopappos Hill to Agion Asomaton Square. It’s a marriage of ancient city and contemporary metropolis. Street artists, skateboarders, campaigners touting a cornucopia of causes, artisans and sightseers make up the colourful crowd, harking back through the centuries to the orators and merchants who once milled around the Pnyx and Agora. A modern landmark worth noting: the open-air Cine Thissio at No. 7, which has operated since 1938.
Evening visitors to the National Observatory are rewarded with a peek at the Athenian sky through the 40-centimetre lens of a 1902 telescope (by appointment). But even in full daylight there’s plenty to draw your gaze at the National Observatory, from the building’s stunning architecture and collection of scientific instruments to a full-on view of the Acropolis. Anyone who values punctuality will especially appreciate the ‘Time Room’ where a 19th-century Viennese telescope that was used to set official Greek time until 1964 is kept
104 warga lokal merekomendasikannya
National Observatory of Athens
& Metaxa
104 warga lokal merekomendasikannya
Evening visitors to the National Observatory are rewarded with a peek at the Athenian sky through the 40-centimetre lens of a 1902 telescope (by appointment). But even in full daylight there’s plenty to draw your gaze at the National Observatory, from the building’s stunning architecture and collection of scientific instruments to a full-on view of the Acropolis. Anyone who values punctuality will especially appreciate the ‘Time Room’ where a 19th-century Viennese telescope that was used to set official Greek time until 1964 is kept
Under the shadow of the Acropolis, Areopagitou pedestrian street is a bustling destination with a great history. On one side of the road you can see some beautiful neoclassical houses
201 warga lokal merekomendasikannya
Dionysiou Areopagitou
Dionysiou Areopagitou
201 warga lokal merekomendasikannya
Under the shadow of the Acropolis, Areopagitou pedestrian street is a bustling destination with a great history. On one side of the road you can see some beautiful neoclassical houses
The special Farmer market of the Kypseli neighborhood is every Thursday
Farmer's market Thursday
Tinou
The special Farmer market of the Kypseli neighborhood is every Thursday

Food scene

Whether you're looking for contemporary Greek cooking or a classic taverna, fine seaside dining or a quick souvlaki, you'll find a restaurant in Athens for every craving.
For an original culinary experience, head to Ama Lachei for lunch or dinner. Walk through the gate of this converted primary school and you immediately get an idea of what an old Athenian courtyard used to look like. On a sunny day, you can soak up the relaxed atmosphere watching the locals gesture their way through endless conversations, as they occupy the tables for hours. You can try a variety of meze dishes that use local delicacies. There’s a good selection of wines and it all comes at very reasonable prices.
178 warga lokal merekomendasikannya
Ama Lachei
69 Kallidromiou
178 warga lokal merekomendasikannya
For an original culinary experience, head to Ama Lachei for lunch or dinner. Walk through the gate of this converted primary school and you immediately get an idea of what an old Athenian courtyard used to look like. On a sunny day, you can soak up the relaxed atmosphere watching the locals gesture their way through endless conversations, as they occupy the tables for hours. You can try a variety of meze dishes that use local delicacies. There’s a good selection of wines and it all comes at very reasonable prices.
Ignore all the online reviews and tourist touts around Monastiraki Square—and do as the locals do. Head to Achilleas where traditional, handmade souvlaki has been sizzling on hot coals since the 1980s. It’s the real deal.
Ο Αχιλλέας (χειροποίητος γύρος)
18 Spintharou
Ignore all the online reviews and tourist touts around Monastiraki Square—and do as the locals do. Head to Achilleas where traditional, handmade souvlaki has been sizzling on hot coals since the 1980s. It’s the real deal.
This place in the back of a convenience store in Psirri; it’s so secret it barely has a name (look for the sign “Anapsiktirio”). Behind a curtain, two siblings, Yiorgos and Ritsa, cook up delicious Greek dishes on a daily basis. The choices are limited, but the tastes are unforgettable and the low prices are almost unbelievable. Try the chicken casserole or the spaghetti Bolognese.
Anapsyktḗrion
22 Sarri
This place in the back of a convenience store in Psirri; it’s so secret it barely has a name (look for the sign “Anapsiktirio”). Behind a curtain, two siblings, Yiorgos and Ritsa, cook up delicious Greek dishes on a daily basis. The choices are limited, but the tastes are unforgettable and the low prices are almost unbelievable. Try the chicken casserole or the spaghetti Bolognese.
If you’re looking to taste regional Greek cuisine, the Cretan food at Mitos in Kallithea is a must. The place is actually a traditional kafenio (old-school café), but also serves authentic mezedes (appetizers to share), all made with produce from the island of Crete. Try the lamb meatballs and the snails with xinohondro (a typical Cretan grain made of sun-dried wheat with sour milk). Follow the local patrons’ lead and wash down your meal with Crete’s signature drink, raki, a clear (and strong) spirit similar to grappa.
Ο Μίτος (Κρητικό καφενείο)
62 Aristidou
If you’re looking to taste regional Greek cuisine, the Cretan food at Mitos in Kallithea is a must. The place is actually a traditional kafenio (old-school café), but also serves authentic mezedes (appetizers to share), all made with produce from the island of Crete. Try the lamb meatballs and the snails with xinohondro (a typical Cretan grain made of sun-dried wheat with sour milk). Follow the local patrons’ lead and wash down your meal with Crete’s signature drink, raki, a clear (and strong) spirit similar to grappa.
Looking for the largest pork chop in Athens? We know where to find it. Moderni Kairi (meaning ‘modern times’) is hidden away on a side-street off Panormou Street in Ambelokipi. There’s an air of the classic kafenio here, but it’s all about the grilled meat. Order your chop with a seasonal salad and a cold beer. Cheap and cheerful Greek food at its finest, with plenty of local colour.
9 warga lokal merekomendasikannya
Modern Times
19 Nik. Gennimata
9 warga lokal merekomendasikannya
Looking for the largest pork chop in Athens? We know where to find it. Moderni Kairi (meaning ‘modern times’) is hidden away on a side-street off Panormou Street in Ambelokipi. There’s an air of the classic kafenio here, but it’s all about the grilled meat. Order your chop with a seasonal salad and a cold beer. Cheap and cheerful Greek food at its finest, with plenty of local colour.
If you want to see what a true Athenian hangout looks and feels like, head to Kokkini Klosti (red string). Locals gather at the bar night after night to drink and socialise. Cosy and intimate, it’s a place where you can often hear skillful musicians play traditional Greek songs. You never know when this may happen, as nights out in Athens are all about spontaneity—but suddenly, guitars appear and you notice that renowned Greek singer Maria Farantouri and her friends are sitting at a table next to you, only because she starts to sing.
Κόκκινη Κλωστή
10 Papadiamantopoulou
If you want to see what a true Athenian hangout looks and feels like, head to Kokkini Klosti (red string). Locals gather at the bar night after night to drink and socialise. Cosy and intimate, it’s a place where you can often hear skillful musicians play traditional Greek songs. You never know when this may happen, as nights out in Athens are all about spontaneity—but suddenly, guitars appear and you notice that renowned Greek singer Maria Farantouri and her friends are sitting at a table next to you, only because she starts to sing.
Thomas eponymous taverna is on the ground floor of an unassuming apartment building from 1925. Stepping inside is like walking into your Greek uncle’s home. Thomas greets you as come in, as does Manos, his younger brother. Some of his staple dishes are gigantes (‘giant’ beans baked in tomato sauce), fava (yellow split peas), soutzoukakia (cumin-flavoured meatballs in an aromatic tomato sauce), and tas kebab (lamb or beed stew).
To Koutouki Tou Thoma
106 Pitheou
Thomas eponymous taverna is on the ground floor of an unassuming apartment building from 1925. Stepping inside is like walking into your Greek uncle’s home. Thomas greets you as come in, as does Manos, his younger brother. Some of his staple dishes are gigantes (‘giant’ beans baked in tomato sauce), fava (yellow split peas), soutzoukakia (cumin-flavoured meatballs in an aromatic tomato sauce), and tas kebab (lamb or beed stew).
Olympion in Mets is my go-to option when I’m starving or whenever I didn’t feel like cooking. The biftekia (beef patties) here are easily the best you’ll have in your entire life. This place is mostly filled with locals from Mets
41 warga lokal merekomendasikannya
Olýmpion
9 Anapafseos
41 warga lokal merekomendasikannya
Olympion in Mets is my go-to option when I’m starving or whenever I didn’t feel like cooking. The biftekia (beef patties) here are easily the best you’ll have in your entire life. This place is mostly filled with locals from Mets
On the days you can not get to the seaside, get your seafood fix here. Their ‘fish gyro’ is something you’ll write home about. The fish is always fresh and whoever grills it is a master.
Chromata Vythou Χρώματα Βυθού
40 Ekalis
On the days you can not get to the seaside, get your seafood fix here. Their ‘fish gyro’ is something you’ll write home about. The fish is always fresh and whoever grills it is a master.
Apart from her classic Greek pies, which are delicious, the highlight is undoubtedly the gőzleme, a speciality from Asia Minor. A very thin, almost crepe-like pastry is filled then folded over like an envelope and cooked on a special metal griddle. Each pie is made to order. I recommend the gőzleme with spinach, tomato and chopped herbs, or pastourma (spicy cured beef), kaseri cheese and tomato. Pro tip: add a fried egg on top of any of the savoury options.
Cocona
10 Milioni
Apart from her classic Greek pies, which are delicious, the highlight is undoubtedly the gőzleme, a speciality from Asia Minor. A very thin, almost crepe-like pastry is filled then folded over like an envelope and cooked on a special metal griddle. Each pie is made to order. I recommend the gőzleme with spinach, tomato and chopped herbs, or pastourma (spicy cured beef), kaseri cheese and tomato. Pro tip: add a fried egg on top of any of the savoury options.
Embedded in Kanigos Square, this is one of the most established Cretan restaurants in the city—it’s been around for 33 years. The restaurant is casual and definitely not fancy, but the food is some of the best in Athens. Try courgette fritters, dakos, and their chickpea salad and especially the baby goat stuffed with rice, herbs, and cheese. This small restaurant is always packed, so make sure to call ahead to reserve a table.
29 warga lokal merekomendasikannya
I Kriti
5 Veranzerou
29 warga lokal merekomendasikannya
Embedded in Kanigos Square, this is one of the most established Cretan restaurants in the city—it’s been around for 33 years. The restaurant is casual and definitely not fancy, but the food is some of the best in Athens. Try courgette fritters, dakos, and their chickpea salad and especially the baby goat stuffed with rice, herbs, and cheese. This small restaurant is always packed, so make sure to call ahead to reserve a table.
One of my favourite dishes is the egg with tomato and staka, a clarified goat’s milk butter similar to ghee. The vibe at Rakoumel is also very traditional: “Our goal always was to capture the same feeling of visiting a Cretan village kafenion,” says Begnis. If you’re in Athens over a weekend, don’t miss laiki and raki, a daytime event that happens after the Exarchia weekly farmer’s market, or laiki. There’s live music and lots of shots of raki are consumed well into the afternoon, in true Cretan style.
16 warga lokal merekomendasikannya
Rakoumel
71 Emmanouil Benaki
16 warga lokal merekomendasikannya
One of my favourite dishes is the egg with tomato and staka, a clarified goat’s milk butter similar to ghee. The vibe at Rakoumel is also very traditional: “Our goal always was to capture the same feeling of visiting a Cretan village kafenion,” says Begnis. If you’re in Athens over a weekend, don’t miss laiki and raki, a daytime event that happens after the Exarchia weekly farmer’s market, or laiki. There’s live music and lots of shots of raki are consumed well into the afternoon, in true Cretan style.
Want to bring some Cretan products home with you? We don’t blame you, they make perfect souvenirs. Sympetheroi, just below Exarchia Square, is a tiny deli crammed with amazing Cretan delicacies, from specialty cheeses and meats (hello, apaki) to herbal teas, and honey. Some of it is incredibly rare; you’ll find herbs like diktamo, or dittany, which has been known since antiquity for its medicinal properties (Hippocrates was a fan) but it’s not widely available elsewhere. The staff has the lowdown on everything there, and they’ll help you find something familiar, or a new favourite.
ΟΙ ΣΥΜΠΕΘΕΡΟΙ
14 Stournari
Want to bring some Cretan products home with you? We don’t blame you, they make perfect souvenirs. Sympetheroi, just below Exarchia Square, is a tiny deli crammed with amazing Cretan delicacies, from specialty cheeses and meats (hello, apaki) to herbal teas, and honey. Some of it is incredibly rare; you’ll find herbs like diktamo, or dittany, which has been known since antiquity for its medicinal properties (Hippocrates was a fan) but it’s not widely available elsewhere. The staff has the lowdown on everything there, and they’ll help you find something familiar, or a new favourite.
Best handmade ice cream in the world. Make sure you try all the sorbet flavour, so natural and flavourful
21 warga lokal merekomendasikannya
Django Gelato Athens
15 Veikou
21 warga lokal merekomendasikannya
Best handmade ice cream in the world. Make sure you try all the sorbet flavour, so natural and flavourful
Delicious and healthy original recipes with Mediterranean flavors and high quality fish & seafood
Seawolf Athens Restaurant
35 Dimitrakopoulou
Delicious and healthy original recipes with Mediterranean flavors and high quality fish & seafood
Authentic Cretan restaurant. Service was good, pleasant and very interactive Tip: the grilled mushroom dish was excellent, ask the servers for other recommendation depending on your taste preference, they're genuinely nice and helpful
Koukátsi
10 Drakou
Authentic Cretan restaurant. Service was good, pleasant and very interactive Tip: the grilled mushroom dish was excellent, ask the servers for other recommendation depending on your taste preference, they're genuinely nice and helpful
If you want a neighborhood food place that offers tasty traditional Greek cuisine served in big portions and reasonably priced.
20 warga lokal merekomendasikannya
Οι Νοστιμιές της Μαίρης
2-4 Idras
20 warga lokal merekomendasikannya
If you want a neighborhood food place that offers tasty traditional Greek cuisine served in big portions and reasonably priced.

Dining Experience for Special Occasions

Looking for a memorable setting for a special occasion or hot date? These fabulous, fine dining restaurants in Athens will feed all your senses.
A beautiful neoclassical building with a charming courtyard houses this one of a kind restaurant, where chef Gikas Xenakis puts a novel spin on traditional Greek dishes. Many diners opt for the tasting menus, which are designed to please different palates and to cater to all kinds of dietary restrictions. There are two main tasting menus, one with five courses and one with seven, plus separate vegetarian and pescatarian seven-course options
58 warga lokal merekomendasikannya
Aleria Restaurant
57 Meg. Alexandrou
58 warga lokal merekomendasikannya
A beautiful neoclassical building with a charming courtyard houses this one of a kind restaurant, where chef Gikas Xenakis puts a novel spin on traditional Greek dishes. Many diners opt for the tasting menus, which are designed to please different palates and to cater to all kinds of dietary restrictions. There are two main tasting menus, one with five courses and one with seven, plus separate vegetarian and pescatarian seven-course options
This elegant local favourite in the affluent neighbourhood of Neo Psychiko delivers the sea to your plate in a contemporary Athenian way. Head chef Yiannis Liakou’s menu changes constantly, depending on the catch of the day. You get to choose your own fish and you can ask him to prepare it the way you like best: carpaccio, sashimi, tartare, or maybe something heartier like kakavia (fish soup) or giouvetsi (baked with orzo and tomato sauce). Perhaps a seafood risotto or pasta? The bestselling salad is humble but incredibly tasty: a peeled tomato garnished with capers, fleur de sel, oregano and extra virgin olive oil. The red mullet carpaccio with citrus fruits is a winner, as is the prawn ceviche. If you’re craving something quintessentially Greek, try the grilled sardines with diced tomatoes, red onions and parsley, or the fricassee, a fish, lettuce and herb stew with a creamy egg and lemon sauce. Mop it all up with their wonderful char-grilled sourdough. During summer, the spacious courtyard is a gorgeous setting for a date night
SCORPINA
2 Grigoriou Xenopoulou
This elegant local favourite in the affluent neighbourhood of Neo Psychiko delivers the sea to your plate in a contemporary Athenian way. Head chef Yiannis Liakou’s menu changes constantly, depending on the catch of the day. You get to choose your own fish and you can ask him to prepare it the way you like best: carpaccio, sashimi, tartare, or maybe something heartier like kakavia (fish soup) or giouvetsi (baked with orzo and tomato sauce). Perhaps a seafood risotto or pasta? The bestselling salad is humble but incredibly tasty: a peeled tomato garnished with capers, fleur de sel, oregano and extra virgin olive oil. The red mullet carpaccio with citrus fruits is a winner, as is the prawn ceviche. If you’re craving something quintessentially Greek, try the grilled sardines with diced tomatoes, red onions and parsley, or the fricassee, a fish, lettuce and herb stew with a creamy egg and lemon sauce. Mop it all up with their wonderful char-grilled sourdough. During summer, the spacious courtyard is a gorgeous setting for a date night
In the foothills of Mount Lycabettus, elegant Papadakis is a classic fine-dining destination with colourful artworks on the walls and fresh flowers aplenty. When it’s warm, there are tables out on the pavement, making for a lovely setting on this quiet corner of Kolonaki. (Some tables even have sneaky Parthenon views.) Celebrity chef Argyro Barbarigou comes from the island of Paros, and sources many ingredients from there. The menu emphasises simplicity and freshness, with a focus on seafood, although there are fabulous meat dishes and salads, too.
19 warga lokal merekomendasikannya
Papadakis
15 Fokilidou
19 warga lokal merekomendasikannya
In the foothills of Mount Lycabettus, elegant Papadakis is a classic fine-dining destination with colourful artworks on the walls and fresh flowers aplenty. When it’s warm, there are tables out on the pavement, making for a lovely setting on this quiet corner of Kolonaki. (Some tables even have sneaky Parthenon views.) Celebrity chef Argyro Barbarigou comes from the island of Paros, and sources many ingredients from there. The menu emphasises simplicity and freshness, with a focus on seafood, although there are fabulous meat dishes and salads, too.
A fine farm-to-fork option for committed carnivores. Chef Yiannis Liokas describes his cooking as "mountain cuisine." He visits the restaurant’s organic farm in Central Greece every two weeks to oversee the produce that winds up on your plate: breeds like Charolais, Limousine, Red Angus, water buffalo from northern Greece, along with various types of sheep, goats, and game. All of the restaurant’s dairy products, eggs, honey, olives and olive oil, the legumes and most of the fruit and vegetables also come from the farm (free of pesticides, antibiotics, chemical fertilisers and hormones). ralou’s epic meat pie—ground mutton and caramelised onions, wrapped in handmade filo pastry—takes classic Greek comfort food to another level. The hand-cut beef tartare with pickled mulberries and mustard seeds is also exceptional. Adventurous eaters should try the frygadeli (beef liver wrapped in suet) with smoked yoghurt and fresh herbs
10 warga lokal merekomendasikannya
Φάρμα Μπράλου - Steak Bar
9 Milioni
10 warga lokal merekomendasikannya
A fine farm-to-fork option for committed carnivores. Chef Yiannis Liokas describes his cooking as "mountain cuisine." He visits the restaurant’s organic farm in Central Greece every two weeks to oversee the produce that winds up on your plate: breeds like Charolais, Limousine, Red Angus, water buffalo from northern Greece, along with various types of sheep, goats, and game. All of the restaurant’s dairy products, eggs, honey, olives and olive oil, the legumes and most of the fruit and vegetables also come from the farm (free of pesticides, antibiotics, chemical fertilisers and hormones). ralou’s epic meat pie—ground mutton and caramelised onions, wrapped in handmade filo pastry—takes classic Greek comfort food to another level. The hand-cut beef tartare with pickled mulberries and mustard seeds is also exceptional. Adventurous eaters should try the frygadeli (beef liver wrapped in suet) with smoked yoghurt and fresh herbs
The first restaurant in Athens to receive a Michelin star in 2002, Spondi has remained at the top of its game due to the perfectionism of its owner, Apostolos Trastelis. The restaurant sits in the friendly neighbourhood of Pangrati, in a pretty neoclassical building. The summer terrace is charming and the vaulted main room inside feels special in the wintertime. The food has always leaned on the creative French side as for years famous French chefs have been coming back and forward, creating memorable menus and training top notch brigades. Angelos Landos is the first non-French chef in years to be put in charge. Ask for the sommelier Miss Giovanna Lykou and don’t be afraid to taste some excellent Greek wine with your world class dishes
103 warga lokal merekomendasikannya
Spondi Restaurant
5 Pirronos
103 warga lokal merekomendasikannya
The first restaurant in Athens to receive a Michelin star in 2002, Spondi has remained at the top of its game due to the perfectionism of its owner, Apostolos Trastelis. The restaurant sits in the friendly neighbourhood of Pangrati, in a pretty neoclassical building. The summer terrace is charming and the vaulted main room inside feels special in the wintertime. The food has always leaned on the creative French side as for years famous French chefs have been coming back and forward, creating memorable menus and training top notch brigades. Angelos Landos is the first non-French chef in years to be put in charge. Ask for the sommelier Miss Giovanna Lykou and don’t be afraid to taste some excellent Greek wine with your world class dishes
This fine dining restaurant is rather tucked away on the 6th floor of the Onassis Stegi on Syngrou Avenue. In the summer, the restaurant moves upstairs to the 7th floor roof terrace, with panoramic views of the Acropolis, Lycabettus Hill and the Athens skyline. Hytra’s cuisine is influenced by the Scandinavian avant-garde. Case in point: a menu studded with rare foraged and fermented vegetables, herbs and fruit
34 warga lokal merekomendasikannya
Hytra Restaurant & Bar
107-109 Leof. Andrea Siggrou
34 warga lokal merekomendasikannya
This fine dining restaurant is rather tucked away on the 6th floor of the Onassis Stegi on Syngrou Avenue. In the summer, the restaurant moves upstairs to the 7th floor roof terrace, with panoramic views of the Acropolis, Lycabettus Hill and the Athens skyline. Hytra’s cuisine is influenced by the Scandinavian avant-garde. Case in point: a menu studded with rare foraged and fermented vegetables, herbs and fruit
Gorgeous dining room, beyond professional service and needless to say the 12-course dining is to die for. This is where you can splurge to fully experience Greek contemporary cuisine. Make reservation in advance!
Delta Restaurant
Gorgeous dining room, beyond professional service and needless to say the 12-course dining is to die for. This is where you can splurge to fully experience Greek contemporary cuisine. Make reservation in advance!

Fancy A Cocktail Or Two?

One of the finest rum bars on the planet, this roaringly popular—and endlessly fun—rum bar laid the foundations for the new Athenian bar scene. It ranked number 22 on the World’s 50 Best Bars in 2018 and was the first Athens bar to break onto the list. Ask Thanos (or top bartenders Ilias, Phaidon or Nikos) to make you a Mai Tai. It will be the best you’ve ever had. Their daiquiris are also exceptional, naturally. Or go purist and check out the huge selection of rum (it’s among Europe’s largest). Choose one, choose two, take a sip and chase it down with the chocolate treat often paired with your drink
162 warga lokal merekomendasikannya
Baba Au Rum
6 Klitiou
162 warga lokal merekomendasikannya
One of the finest rum bars on the planet, this roaringly popular—and endlessly fun—rum bar laid the foundations for the new Athenian bar scene. It ranked number 22 on the World’s 50 Best Bars in 2018 and was the first Athens bar to break onto the list. Ask Thanos (or top bartenders Ilias, Phaidon or Nikos) to make you a Mai Tai. It will be the best you’ve ever had. Their daiquiris are also exceptional, naturally. Or go purist and check out the huge selection of rum (it’s among Europe’s largest). Choose one, choose two, take a sip and chase it down with the chocolate treat often paired with your drink
Probably the most popular and innovative bar in Athens, The Clumsies is big, youthful and boisterous. Founding bartenders Nikos Bakoulis and Vasilis Kyritsis have steered their downtown cocktail bar into seventh place on the World’s 50 Best Bars list by always staying a step ahead of international trends. Their cocktails may look simple, but hours of R&D have gone into their creation
257 warga lokal merekomendasikannya
The Clumsies
30 Praxitelous
257 warga lokal merekomendasikannya
Probably the most popular and innovative bar in Athens, The Clumsies is big, youthful and boisterous. Founding bartenders Nikos Bakoulis and Vasilis Kyritsis have steered their downtown cocktail bar into seventh place on the World’s 50 Best Bars list by always staying a step ahead of international trends. Their cocktails may look simple, but hours of R&D have gone into their creation
The flamboyant fit-out is down to Alexandros Petrakis, the designer behind some of Athens’ most original bars like 7 Jokers, Noel and Briki. Order the Art Brut with strawberries, lemon, balsamic cream, herbal liqueur, peach, and vodka. Or the Amnesia with rum, fresh pineapple, lime, ginger, maraschino liqueur, falernum and absinthe.
80 warga lokal merekomendasikannya
Upupa Epops The Bar
7 Alkminis
80 warga lokal merekomendasikannya
The flamboyant fit-out is down to Alexandros Petrakis, the designer behind some of Athens’ most original bars like 7 Jokers, Noel and Briki. Order the Art Brut with strawberries, lemon, balsamic cream, herbal liqueur, peach, and vodka. Or the Amnesia with rum, fresh pineapple, lime, ginger, maraschino liqueur, falernum and absinthe.
Once you’ve tried one of Thodoris Pirillos’ cocktails, you’ll never forget it. The founder of A for Athens won the World Class cocktail competition in 2013. His eternally popular rooftop bar, overlooking Monastiraki Square, has one of the most amazing views in the city. It feels as though you could reach out and touch the Acropolis His Odyssey menu, inspired by the 10-year journey of Odysseus, is a work of art. Sipping on a mythical cocktail underneath the Parthenon is an unforgettable moment for any Athens visitor.
288 warga lokal merekomendasikannya
A for Athens Cocktail Bar
2 Miaouli
288 warga lokal merekomendasikannya
Once you’ve tried one of Thodoris Pirillos’ cocktails, you’ll never forget it. The founder of A for Athens won the World Class cocktail competition in 2013. His eternally popular rooftop bar, overlooking Monastiraki Square, has one of the most amazing views in the city. It feels as though you could reach out and touch the Acropolis His Odyssey menu, inspired by the 10-year journey of Odysseus, is a work of art. Sipping on a mythical cocktail underneath the Parthenon is an unforgettable moment for any Athens visitor.
Ever wondered where bartenders go for a nightcap and a chat after they knock off? In Athens, it’s 7 Jokers. There are few better spots to imbibe on the vibe of this city’s inexhaustible bar scene. At 2:30 am, you can barely squeeze into this narrow bar, a local’s favourite since the day it opened over a decade ago. It’s not at all posh. But it is theatrical, vibrant, chilled out and always plays great music
40 warga lokal merekomendasikannya
The 7 Jokers Coffee & Cocktail Bar
7 Voulis
40 warga lokal merekomendasikannya
Ever wondered where bartenders go for a nightcap and a chat after they knock off? In Athens, it’s 7 Jokers. There are few better spots to imbibe on the vibe of this city’s inexhaustible bar scene. At 2:30 am, you can barely squeeze into this narrow bar, a local’s favourite since the day it opened over a decade ago. It’s not at all posh. But it is theatrical, vibrant, chilled out and always plays great music
The pedestrian Adria of Fokionos Negri is a nice place to enjoy a leisure walk without cars. Nice live music of all kinds and nice people of all ages and walks of life
Orphéas
25 Fokionos Negri
The pedestrian Adria of Fokionos Negri is a nice place to enjoy a leisure walk without cars. Nice live music of all kinds and nice people of all ages and walks of life