Athens Insiders: 6 Locals Offer Their Own Top Tips

Vlassis Kostouros | October 1st, 2024

Six creative Athenians tell us about their favorite haunts in the city, from great places to explore, eat out and shop, to hidden cultural gems.

Cacao Rocks

Artist, @cacaorocks

Cultural experience

The Archaeological Museum of Piraeus (31 Charilaou Trikoupi) is an underrated gem with few visitors but remarkable exhibits. It’s currently hosting “Odyssey,” a contemporary art exhibition, curated by Marilena Koutsoukou, that allows visitors to admire modern Greek art alongside ancient Greek classical sculptures.

For a swim nearby

Votsalakia Beach, between the ports of Zea and Kastella in Piraeus, is a picturesque spot for a swim with views of Aegina. Locals cherish this beach for its beauty. Make your summer escape complete with an ouzo at one of the many tavernas in the nearby Stavros of Piraiki area.

Night out

On Theatrou Square, you’ll find the Selina Hotel, home to the spectacular Great Bear Rooftop, with breathtaking views, refreshing cocktails and relaxed DJ sets. The crowd is always lively.

Guilty pleasure

Ikariotiko (17 Aristidou), a historic taverna at the port in Piraeus, takes you back in time with its authentic Greek dishes reminiscent of home-cooked meals. For those who prefer fine dining, Amber Cellar (16-20 Aristidou) is right next door, offering innovative modern Greek cuisine in a chic setting.

Shopping tips

In Kallithea, visit Zatopek (209 Panagi Tsaldari), a café-bookstore that serves excellent drinks and snacks. For new editions, rare art books and souvenirs, head to Hyper Hypo downtown (10 Voreou), a haven for book lovers and art enthusiasts alike.

Evan Maragkoudakis

Cinematographer @evansteez

Cultural experience

Cine Paris (22 Kidathineon) in Plaka is a must-visit. This newly renovated open-air cinema offers stunning Acropolis views. Arrive early to secure the best seats.

For a swim nearby

Cape Beach: the 100 steps down to this beach are worth every effort. Visit on weekdays for a tranquil experience and to enjoy the beach all to yourself.

Night out

Tigré (98 Mavromichali) is my favorite spot for an after-work drink, with a welcoming atmosphere and delicious snacks.

Guilty pleasure

To Ellinikon (40 Iasonidou) in the southern suburb with the same name is my top pick for souvlaki, serving the best since 1990. Try the burger beef souvlaki.

Shopping tips

Ministry Of Concrete (5 Athanasiou Axarlian) is a skate-focused sneaker boutique in downtown Athens. The owner, Alex, sold me my first skateboard at 13. They also host various events, so keep an eye out!

Georgia Hopkins

Travel Writer – Travel Advisor, @_itsbeautifulhere

Cultural experience

A private walking tour of the Acropolis with archaeologist and guide, Michael Patmanidis (@michael_patmanidis). His passion, knowledge, and engaging storytelling make this one of Athens’s most enriching experiences.

For a swim nearby

The little beach beneath the Karamanlis Tunnel Holes is my go-to spot. It is easily accessible and often quiet, especially midweek, and has an island-like charm. Early mornings are particularly peaceful.

Night out

Santarosa Bar (69 Asklipiou) is my favorite for a night out. Its dark, atmospheric ambiance and the long bar create a perfect setting for enjoying a unique and eclectic music journey.

Guilty pleasure

The Taverna Ton Filon (66 Argous) is ideal for friendly, unpretentious dining in a charming setting. The classic taverna food, excellent wine and Yiorgos’ warm hospitality make it unique. The pastel de nata from Sweet Nolan (6B Apollonos), however, might be my ultimate guilty pleasure.

Shopping tips

For unique gifts, visit Ere Athens (30 Erechthiou), a cool concept store in Koukaki. Adad Books (1 Anteou) stocks beautiful coffee-table books, while the 2WO+1NE=2 showroom (26 Akadimias) has stylish clothing.

Diane Alexandre

Designer, Illustrator, Ceramist, @dianealexandre

Cultural experience

Often overshadowed by the Acropolis Museum, the National Archaeological Museum (44 28is Oktovriou) is one of the world’s most important museums. Its stunning collection includes the Mask of Agamemnon and the imposing Kouros Statues.

For a swim nearby

Tsiou Beach in Sounion is a picturesque cove with white sand, impressive rocks, and crystal-clear waters. You can also take an afternoon walk to the nearby Temple of Poseidon.

Night out

At Wine is Fine (6 Vissis), enjoy natural wines and classic French bistro dishes amidst Athens’ most stylish crowd on a charming pedestrian street in Monastiraki. For lively dancing nearby, visit Angie Discotheque (9 Vlachava), the city’s new pop-up disco with a spacious dance floor, disco balls, frozen margaritas, and energetic DJs.

Guilty pleasure

Nikolas of Schinoussa, a restaurant that’s famous on the island of the same name, has opened a new venue on Glyfada Beach in Athens, offering amazing seafood and stunning views of the Saronic Gulf. You’ll fall in love! (48 Diadochou Pavlou)

Shopping tips

In Psyrri, you’ll find Dante (9 Pittaki), specializing in menswear but with items my boyfriend and I often share (and sometimes squabble over). Booktique (21 Patriarchou Ioakim) in Kolonaki, is a bilingual bookstore that’s one of Athens’ premier destinations for book lovers.

Christos Politis

TV Content Manager & Blogger, @christos.robin

Cultural experience

The perfect summer date spot is Cine Riviera (46 Valtetsiou), in the heart of Exarchia. This lush oasis offers a nostalgic summer movie experience. Once you part the red curtain and step inside, you’ll be transported by the ambiance and the classic films it plays.

For a swim nearby

Just a 40-minute ride from Athens, Limanakia offers rocky diving platforms into the clear waters of successive coves and provides stunning views towards Vouliagmeni, too. There’s a small canteen for basic needs. The peaceful landscape is perfect for swimming and sunbathing.

Night out

Ntylan (38 Aghias Zonis) in Kypseli is a recent addition on a vibrant pedestrianized street. From afternoon until late in the evening, enjoy exquisite drinks and delicious food from an elegant menu. The atmosphere is always lively and welcoming.

Guilty pleasure

To Tromero Paidi (30 Papadiamantopoulou) is Athens’s go-to bakery for the best bread, pastries, and croissants. The delightful aromas will guide you to this spot, known for attracting customers from all over the city with its exceptional baked goods.

Shopping tips

The Bohemian Athenian, located at 12 Zoodochou Pigis, is a cozy little shop in a third-floor studio apartment. Find items such as books, candles, vases, and small furniture pieces you never knew you needed, all carefully curated to inspire.

Billie Kark

Singer, Songwriter, @billiekark

Cultural experience

For traditional music fans, I highly recommend the Museum of Greek Folk Musical Instruments in Plaka (1 Diogenous), which has a collection of over a thousand Greek folk musical instruments from the 18th century to the present, all curated from the extensive research of musicologist Fivos Anoyanakis.

For a swim nearby

Erotospilia, 36 km from Athens in Porto Rafti, boasts idyllic scenery, crystal-clear waters, and golden sand. It’s perfect for groups of friends and couples alike. Arrive early to get a shady spot in the small cave on the beach.

Night out

On the rooftop of an old neoclassical building, you’ll find the Bios bar (84 Pireos) with a really nice view of the Acropolis. The DJ plays house music, images are projected onto the walls of the surrounding buildings and, instead of typical bar chairs, you’ll find comfortable loungers!

Guilty pleasure

I’m a fan of street food, and the best spot I’ve discovered is Galiandra, in verdant Avdi Square in Metaxourgeio (4 Giatrakou). They offer many vegan options, incredible fries, and a sinful soy meat burger!

Shopping tips

Anamesa (24 Nikis) has fabulous clothes from Greek and international designers, as well as other items. For tropical plants and stylish ceramics, Rizom Athens in Mets (5 Kilis) is your place.