Best Events Guide: March 2026 in Athens

best events in Athens March

March has arrived, and in Athens, this is when the city’s cultural side shifts into vibrant spring mode.

Athens’ key events in March bring together local and international artists, writers, comedians and street dancers with international film festivals, headline DJs, fashion presentations, thoughtful literary discussions, plus Independence Day commemorations-  with plenty to engage both visitors and Athenians alike. 

Insights Greece - Best Events Guide: March 2026 in Athens

Dimitris Vegas at Universe

Turn the volume all the way up, because this March Athens goes full festival mode with global EDM powerhouse Dimitri Vegas taking over Universe for a night built on pure adrenaline. From Tomorrowland main stages to sold-out arenas around the world, Dimitri Vegas has become synonymous with explosive drops, euphoric build-ups, and crowd-shaking basslines. Now, he brings that same high-impact energy to Athens for a late-night set that promises intensity from the very first beat.

Expect a full sensory experience at Universe, one of Athens’ largest and most technologically advanced venues, where the night is designed to feel less like a club and more like a global electronic music spectacle. Lights, visuals, and sound combine to create a production on the scale of a festival stage, making this an event that both long-time fans and newcomers will remember. If you’re planning one major night out this March, this is the one to mark on your calendar.

Entry: 20-100€

Date & Time: 6 March 2026, 11pm

W: more.com

A: Universe Multiveniue 87 Kifissou Avenue, Egaleo 

Insights Greece - Best Events Guide: March 2026 in Athens

KINO Athens- International Independent Film Festival 

One of Athens’ most anticipated cultural events returns this March with a wide-ranging celebration of independent cinema. The KINO Athens International Independent Film Festival showcases bold European projects, bringing together emerging and established filmmakers through a curated program of features, shorts, documentaries, and experimental works from around the world.

Taking place in the heart of Athens (across multiple venues in the city) the 4th edition of the KINO Athens film festival will showcase over 160 films from more than 40 countries- celebrating daring storytelling and new cinematic voices. The festival will open with the Greek premiere of Stereo Girls, directed by award-winning filmmaker Caroline Deroua Peano, a powerful, character-driven drama that explores generational tensions and will close with Un anno di scuola, by Italian director Laura Samani. Audiences also have the chance to catch Becoming Madonna, with never-before-seen photos, footage and recently uncovered audio tapes of one of the most powerful and controversial female pop star on the planet. 

Entry: Free

Date: 12-20 March 2026

W: kinoathens.org

A: Various venues across Athens 

Insights Greece - Best Events Guide: March 2026 in Athens

SOLACE- Fashion Design Expo & Pop Up

Athens’ creative scene takes centre stage this March with the return of SOLACE, a dynamic celebration of independent fashion and contemporary design. The expo brings together emerging and established designers, artists, and makers who are pushing the boundaries of modern style through innovation, craftsmanship, and sustainability. Hosted at the iconic Athens Conservatoire, this edition promises its largest showcase yet, with over 150 designers presenting curated collections, limited-edition pieces, and experimental concepts across fashion, accessories, and broader creative design. Visitors can explore pop-up exhibitions, discover new labels, and connect directly with the creative minds shaping Greece’s contemporary design landscape.

On March 7, SOLACE kicks off with a pre-party that blends electronic music, live art, and fashion performances, echoing the runway moments where major fashion houses pair cutting-edge music with style. The full lineup will be shared on social media, offering a first glimpse into an immersive night that celebrates creativity at every turn.

Pre-party tickets: 25-40€ 

Entry: Free

Date & Time: 15 Μarch 2026, 12pm-10pm

W: solace

A: Athens Conservatoire, Rigillis &, Vas. Georgiou B 17-19, Athens

Insights Greece - Best Events Guide: March 2026 in Athens

Kostyantyn- “Victim of Love” 

Athens’ English-speaking comedy scene continues to grow, and this March laughter takes centre stage with Kostyantyn’s solo show, Victim of Love. Presented by the Athens English Comedy Club, the performance brings Vienna’s famously well-dressed comedian and his sharp, charismatic storytelling to the city for one memorable night.

Blending personal anecdotes with clever observations on romance, relationships, and life’s awkward moments, the show delivers humour that is both relatable and refreshingly honest. Audiences can expect a fast-paced stand-up performance full of cultural insight, laugh-out-loud moments, and an evening that highlights the growing vibrancy of Athens’ international comedy scene.

Entry: 10€

Date & Time: 15 Μarch 2026, 9pm

W: more.com

A: Eliart Theatre, Votanikos

Insights Greece - Best Events Guide: March 2026 in Athens

Michalis Kiousis- “The Spaces in Between”

Athens’ contemporary art scene welcomes a striking new solo exhibition by Greek artist Michalis Kiousis this March in Kolonaki. The Spaces in Between presents a series of large-scale works that explore memory, identity, and the fluid, ever-shifting notion of place. At the heart of Kiousis’ practice is the human figure, often set within layered environments where urban life, cultural references, and fragments of lived experience intersect. His richly textured paintings weave together architectural forms, organic shapes, and symbolic details, creating spaces that feel at once familiar and dreamlike.

Using handmade oil pastels and bold material surfaces, Kiousis constructs compositions that are immersive, expressive, and full of movement. Tradition and contemporary life, ritual and everyday moments, structure and spontaneity coexist seamlessly within his visual language. Curated by Maria Almpani, the exhibition encourages visitors to slow down, observe closely, and step into a world shaped by memory, imagination, and cultural dialogue. Thoughtful and visually compelling, The Spaces in Between is a must-visit on any spring gallery itinerary.

Entry: Free

Date & Time: 12 Μarch-18 April 2026, 7pm-10pm

W: galleryalma.com

A: Skoufa 24Α, Kolonaki 

Insights Greece - Best Events Guide: March 2026 in Athens

Stillborn- by Efthymis Christou

Athens’ contemporary performance scene presents Stillborn, a new physical solo by creator and performer Efthymis Christou, staged for three consecutive Fridays at Steehos Space this March. Inspired by the concept of l’appel du vide– the inner pull toward the void- the work unfolds as an exploration of vulnerability, resilience, and the human instinct to keep moving forward. Blending dance, visual imagery, and poetic stage action, the performance creates an immersive experience that moves beyond conventional storytelling.

Rather than following a linear narrative, Stillborn builds through a series of striking physical moments that reflect emotional tension, inner conflict, and the search for meaning. Through movement and atmosphere, audiences are drawn into an intimate space where fragility and strength coexist. Developed in collaboration with three choreographers at different stages of the creative process, the performance offers a layered, visually compelling addition to Athens’ experimental arts calendar.

Entry: 13€ General | 10€ Reduced

Date & Time: 20 Μarch-3 April 2026, 3 Fridays, 9pm

W: ticketservice.com

A: Steehos Space, Dipyllou 7, Psyrri

Insights Greece - Best Events Guide: March 2026 in Athens

Falstaff at the Greek National Opera

Giuseppe Verdi’s final opera returns to the Greek National Opera this March in a revival of its acclaimed production at the Stavros Niarchos Hall. Inspired by Shakespeare’s The Merry Wives of Windsor, the comic masterpiece follows Sir John Falstaff (charming, delusional, and endlessly entertaining) as his romantic schemes unravel with hilarious consequences.

Directed by Stephen Langridge, the production is set in 1930s England, a world of social conventions, sharp wit, and playful satire. Verdi’s brilliant score balances humour with emotional depth, building to the celebrated finale that reminds audiences why Falstaff remains one of opera’s most joyous and enduring characters.

Entry: 15-90€

Date & Time: 1 -5 March 2026, 7.30pm, Sunday: 6.30pm

 W: tickeservice.gr

 A: Greek National Opera, SNFCC, 364 Syngrou Avenue, Kallithea

Insights Greece - Best Events Guide: March 2026 in Athens

Sir Don McCullin- Life, Death and Everything in Between

For the first time in Greece, legendary British photojournalist Sir Don McCullin presents a major exhibition at Technopolis City of Athens. Featuring 47 powerful photographs, the show spans his decades-long career documenting war, hardship, and everyday life with uncompromising honesty.

From conflict zones in Vietnam, Cambodia, and Lebanon to scenes of working-class Britain, McCullin’s images capture moments of struggle, resilience, and human dignity. Direct and deeply affecting, the exhibition offers a rare opportunity to experience some of the most iconic photographs of the 20th century up close.

Entry: Free

Date & Time: 1-12 March 2026, 10am – 10pm, Thursday 12/03: 10am – 3pm 

A: Technopolis City of Athens, 100 Pireos, Gazi

Insights Greece - Best Events Guide: March 2026 in Athens

Free Museum & Archaeological Site Sundays in Athens

The Hellenic Ministry of Culture has designated Sunday 1 and Sunday 15 March 2026, as free-entry days for all state-run museums, archaeological sites, and monuments in Athens. These Sundays offer visitors the chance to explore some of the city’s most important cultural institutions and historic landmarks without an admission fee, making them particularly popular with both locals and travellers.

Free admission also applies on 6 March, Melina Mercouri Memorial Day, and 25 March, Greek National Holiday, providing additional opportunities to experience Greece’s rich cultural heritage. Whether planning a full day of museum visits or a casual cultural outing, these dates are among the best ways to explore Athens’ history, art, and archaeology entirely free of charge. 

Insights Greece - Best Events Guide: March 2026 in Athens

Athens International Literature Festival 2026 

Athens welcomes a new cultural highlight this March with the inaugural Athens International Literature Festival, taking place from 27–29 March at the Technopolis City of Athens. With free entry, the three-day festival brings together international authors and readers for conversations centered on contemporary literature and global themes. The program features writers such as David Szalay, Paul Lynch, and Nicole Krauss, and opens with a keynote from Nobel Prize laureate László Krasznahorkai.

Conceived as a lasting cultural institution, the festival offers a carefully curated programme of talks, discussions, and parallel events, inviting attendees to engage directly with internationally recognised authors while discovering emerging voices. Themes range from social change to global challenges, while also reflecting on Athens itself as a city of stories. Set against the industrial heritage of Technopolis in Gazi, the festival provides a welcoming, outward-looking space for readers, writers, journalists, and culture lovers from Greece and beyond- a first edition designed to establish Athens as a destination for literary conversation and exchange.

Entry: Free

Date & Time: 27-29 March 2026

Website: ailf.gr/en/ailf-

A: Technopolis City of Athens, 100 Pireos, Gazi

Insights Greece - Best Events Guide: March 2026 in Athens

Athens Street Dance Festival 

Stylin’ The Beat returns for its seventh edition this March, cementing its status as one of Greece’s leading international street dance events. Taking place on 21–22 March at PLΥFA, the two-day festival brings together dancers, judges, and crews from across Europe for high-energy battles, creative showcases, and a celebration of street culture at its most authentic.

Organised by the award-winning Hood Groove Management- behind Greece’s most prominent street dance events such as Breaking Bad in Athens, South Break Jam in Chania, and the Triple X Battle, the festival benefits from a legacy of expertise and international collaboration. This year, judges from Italy, Switzerland, and Cyprus will preside over competitions spanning hip-hop, breaking, and contemporary urban choreography, while dancers of all levels compete in international preliminaries and main-stage battles. Stylin’ The Beat Vol.7 is not just a competition; it’s a cultural moment where the energy of the streets, creativity, and performance converge. Whether you’re a dance enthusiast, a performer, or simply curious about Athens’ urban culture, the festival promises an electrifying weekend of cutting-edge movement, music, and community.

Entry: 12€ 

Date  21-22 March 2026

W: plyfa.space

A: PLYFA, Building 7A, Korytsas 39, Athens 

Insights Greece - Best Events Guide: March 2026 in Athens

Greek Independence Day- March 25

Each year on 25 March, Athens comes to a standstill to mark Greek Independence Day, commemorating the start of the Greek War of Independence in 1821. The day also coincides with the religious holiday of the Annunciation, observed by the Orthodox Church, creating a rare overlap of civic and spiritual significance. The city’s grand military parade begins at 11am, progressing from Vasilissis Amalias Avenue past the Hellenic Parliament, with officials in attendance, including the President of Greece. The procession continues down Panepistimiou Street, where crowds line both sides in front of iconic neo-classical landmarks such as the Academy of Athens, the National Bank of Greece, and the National Library, before concluding at Omonia Square. To secure a good vantage point, it’s recommended to arrive at Syntagma Square at least by 10am or along Panepistimiou Street for an optimal view. 

Religious observances also take place across the city on March 25, with churches such as the Metropolitan Cathedral in Athens holding major services, commemorating the archangel Gabriel’s announcement to the Virgin Mary that she would bear the son of God. A local culinary tradition accompanies the celebration- bakaliaros skordalia, a fried salted cod served with a garlicky potato and olive oil sauce, is available from tavernas throughout the city, allowing locals and visitors to taste this special Greek custom.

Insights Greece - Best Events Guide: March 2026 in Athens

Oenorama-Onassis Stegi

The annual wine exhibition Oenorama returns with renewed energy at the Onassis Stegi, introducing a refreshed venue for Greece’s largest wine showcase. Bringing together hundreds of wineries and more than 2500 labels from across the country, the event offers visitors a unique opportunity to explore the diversity and evolution of the Greek vineyard. Winemakers, industry professionals, wine journalists, and enthusiasts gather to taste new releases, discover emerging producers, and exchange insights on the latest trends shaping the wine world. 

Alongside the main exhibition, curated tastings and thematic presentations highlight indigenous grape varieties and key wine-producing regions, offering a deeper understanding of Greece’s rich terroir. With its contemporary setting, and expanded program, Oenorama continues to stand as a key meeting point for the Greek wine community. Tip: Easy transfer Oenorama offers a free shuttle bus service from Syggrou Metro Station – Fix during all day. 

Entry: 10€-65€

Date & Time: 13-16 March, Friday 5-9pm, Saturday-Monday 10am – 9pm

W: oenorama.com

A:  Onassis Ready, Strati Tsirka 2, 18233 Agios Ioannis Rentis

Main Image: Being Madonna | Courtesy of KINO Athens 

Athens Museums: Best Spots for a Cultural Day in the Capital

Best Museums in Athens

From the iconic Acropolis Museum to the brilliant Benaki Museum, the city’s cultural landscape is as layered as its history. 

Athens is a place where the past and present effortlessly intertwine- here ancient artifacts meet modern design, and every exhibition tells a story worth pausing for. Whether you’re an art lover, a history enthusiast, or simply curious, these are the museums that capture the soul of the Greek capital.

Acropolis Museum

Set at the foot of the Parthenon, the Acropolis Museum is a striking contemporary landmark that brings ancient Greece vividly to life. Designed by Bernard Tschumi and Michael Photiadis, its glass-lined spaces are flooded with natural light and perfectly aligned with the Acropolis above. Inside, more than 4,000 artefacts trace the evolution of Athenian civilization- from the archaic period to the height of classical art. Highlights include the original Caryatids, intricate friezes from the Parthenon, and the excavated ruins of an ancient neighbourhood visible beneath the glass floors. Don’t miss the top-floor Parthenon Gallery, where sculptures are displayed in their original sequence with panoramic views of the temple itself. 

A: Dionysiou Areopagitou 15, Athens 

National Archaeological Museum

Housed in a neoclassical building on Patission Street, the National Archaeological Museum is Greece’s largest and most important repository of ancient art. Its vast collection spans millennia- from prehistoric treasures unearthed at Mycenae and Santorini to exquisite sculptures and ceramics from the height of classical Greece. Highlights include the gold Mask of Agamemnon, the Antikythera Mechanism (the world’s first known analogue computer), and haunting bronze statues that seem to defy time. Each gallery reveals another chapter of Greece’s story, offering a rare chance to trace the evolution of art, craftsmanship, and thought that shaped Western civilization.

A: Pattission 44, Athens 

Benaki Museum

Occupying a grand neoclassical mansion in Kolonaki, opposite the National Garden, the Benaki Museum offers one of the most comprehensive journeys through Greek history and culture. Its beautifully curated collection moves seamlessly from antiquity and Byzantine art to Ottoman-era treasures and 20th-century design, revealing how Greece’s identity evolved across centuries of influence. Beyond its main building, the museum’s annexes (dedicated to Islamic art, contemporary Greek design, and photography) extend its reach even further. With its thoughtful curation and serene atmosphere, the Benaki invites slow exploration. 

A:  Koumpari 1, Athens 

Museum of Cycladic Art

Housed in an elegant neoclassical building in the centre of Athens, the Museum of Cycladic Art celebrates the minimalist beauty of the ancient Aegean. Its world-renowned collection of marble figurines from the Cycladic islands (dating back to the third millennium BC) reveals a strikingly modern aesthetic that continues to inspire contemporary artists and designers. Alongside its permanent displays, the museum regularly hosts thoughtful contemporary art exhibitions that draw subtle parallels between ancient and modern forms of expression. After exploring the galleries, pause at the sleek café and browse the beautifully curated boutique, both extensions of the museum’s refined, design-forward spirit.

A: Neofitou Douka 4, Athens 

Byzantine and Christian Museum

For a deeper look into Greece’s spiritual and artistic legacy, the Byzantine and Christian Museum offers a fascinating journey through more than a thousand years of history. Housed in a lovely 19th-century villa surrounded by tranquil gardens, it holds over 25,000 artifacts spanning the Byzantine and post-Byzantine eras. Icons, mosaics, frescoes, and illuminated manuscripts reveal the evolution of religious art from the early Christian period to the fall of Constantinople and beyond. Thoughtfully curated and quietly atmospheric, the museum captures the enduring dialogue between faith, artistry, and daily life in the Byzantine world.

A: Leoforos Vasilissis Sofias 22, Athens 

National Museum of Contemporary Art (EMST)

The National Museum of Contemporary Art, Athens (EMST), is the beating heart of Greece’s modern art scene. Housed in a striking former industrial building in the lively Neos Kosmos district, it showcases cutting-edge works by both Greek and international artists across thoughtfully curated temporary and permanent exhibitions. Each floor offers a distinct perspective, inviting visitors to move through diverse artistic narratives while engaging with experimental media, installations, and design. EMST also hosts educational programs and workshops, making it a dynamic hub for creativity. After exploring, the surrounding neighbourhood offers a lively selection of cafés and restaurants, perfect for extending the experience beyond the galleries.

A: Kallirrois Ave. & Amvr. Frantzi St, Athens 

Athens Olympic Museum

Celebrating Greece’s enduring connection to the Olympic Games, the Athens Olympic Museum offers a lively and interactive journey through the history of sport. Its exhibitions cover the ancient origins of the Olympics, the 2004 Athens Games, and the broader role of athletics in Greek culture, all presented in a fully accessible, hands-on format. Visitors can explore artifacts, multimedia displays, and immersive installations that bring the Olympic spirit to life, while personal guided tours (bookable online) provide deeper insights into the Games’ evolution from antiquity to the present. Thoughtfully designed and engaging for all ages, the museum captures both the historical significance and contemporary relevance of Greece’s most famous global contribution.

A: Leof. Kifisias 37A, Marousi, Athens

Maria Callas Museum

Tucked away on Mitropoleos Street, the Maria Callas Museum is a charming tribute to one of the 20th century’s most celebrated sopranos. Housed in an elegant neoclassical building, the museum offers an intimate glimpse into Callas’s life and illustrious career, with personal artifacts, stage costumes from defining performances, and photographs drawn from her private archive. Visitors can also listen to authentic recordings that capture the remarkable range and emotion of her voice. Thoughtfully curated, the museum invites music lovers and cultural explorers alike to connect with the woman behind the legend, offering a personal and immersive portrait of an operatic icon.

A: Mitropoleos 44, Athens 

Alekos Fassianos Museum 

Opened in 2023, the Alekos Fassianos Museum in central Athens is a wonderful celebration of contemporary Greek art and the vision of one of the country’s most beloved painters. The museum itself is a work of art: Fassianos collaborated with architect Kyriakos Krokos over two decades to transform a modern Athenian apartment building into a space that harmonises perfectly with his vibrant, poetic works. The result is a rare dialogue between art and architecture, where every gallery and detail reflects the artist’s aesthetic. Run by the Alekos Fassianos Estate, the museum not only showcases his oeuvre but also hosts temporary exhibitions, research projects, and events that connect fellow artists, curators, and the public, making it a dynamic cultural hub in the heart of the city.

A: Neofitou Metaxa 15, Athens 

What’s On In Athens This Week: November 27

This is the last week of November for 2023- but before we turn the page on our calendar there are still lots of special events taking place in Athens.

The cultural scene in the capital is on fire this week and we have rounded up our favourites for you.

Half Note Jazz Nights 2023

Insights Greece - What's On In Athens This Week: November 27

Want to add some flare to your Athens nights? Half Note, the most iconic jazz hangout in the city, is returning for the winter season in the Mets neighbourhood. Make sure you reserve a seat and enjoy the moonshine while listening to the music of the excellent jazz performers playing throughout the night. Philipp Weiss and Stathis Anninos will present a contemporary version of Schumann’s romantic vocal music and promise to take us on an unforgettable melodic journey.

Entry: €20- €30

Date & Time: 29 November 2023, 9:30 pm

Address: Half Note Jazz Club, 17 Trivonianou, Mets

Tickets: more.com

Evangelisomos, The Musical 

Insights Greece - What's On In Athens This Week: November 27

Evangelismos, the musical is a theatrical production by the National Theatre of Greece. Set against the backdrop of one of the most famous hospitals in Athens, the storyline is about time and love. Directed by Angelos Triantafillou, in collaboration with Dimitris Stavropoulos, the libretto is by Yiannis Asteris and a troupe of 21 renowned actors and singers all combine to create a surreal universe. The “residents” of a hospital, doctors, nurses, patients and attendants, sing for those who have already left, but also for those who wish to say goodbye. The play is in Greek language with English subtitles.

Entry: €10- €18

Date & Time: 30 November 2023, 8:30 pm

Address: Rex Theater, Stage “Marika Kotopouli”, Panepistimiou 38 Athens 

Website: n-t.gr

Natura Morta (a dance less)

Insights Greece - What's On In Athens This Week: November 27

Choreographer Spyros Kouvaras and the Greek-French contemporary dance group, Synthesis 748 Dance Co. are bringing to Athens their new project, NATURA MORTA (a dance less). Synthesis 748 presents a work about loss and “lost natures”, a choreography that functions as a reminder of time for the inescapability of human fate and the vulnerability of the material world. The performance introduces an intermediate space-time in which a dance ritual unfolds and develops as a modern doomsday and sometimes as an archaic rave, following an increasing escalation of kinetic intensity.

Entry: €12

Date & Time: 24-28 November 2023, 7 pm

Address: Korytsas 39, Athens 

Website: more.com

Sebastien Rouland Underground Youth Orchestra

Insights Greece - What's On In Athens This Week: November 27

The Underground Youth Orchestra of Athens is one of the most important youth symphony orchestras in Greece. With the goal of offering young talented musicians the opportunity to train in orchestral art by participating in high-level concerts in Greece and abroad, the orchestra teams up with famous conductors and soloists.  The founder and artistic director of the orchestra is Kostas Iliadis and this time he is collaborating with the talented and well-known maestro Sebastien Rouland, who will conduct the orchestra with a great selection of works by famous composers such as L.B. Beethoven, Sibelius, M.Ravel.

Entry: €8- €24

Date & Time: 29 November 8:30 pm

Address: Athens Music Hall – Vas. Sofias & Kokkali 1, Athens

Τickets: webtics.megaro.gr

Dreamland Art Exhibition 

Insights Greece - What's On In Athens This Week: November 27

The internationally acclaimed painter and sculptor Kostis Georgiou introduces visitors to his own “Dreamland” at Kapopoulos Fine Arts. An ode to a dreamlike place – the artist presents a series of contemporary paintings from recent years, some of which compose multifaceted creations, each part of which maintains its own autonomous entity. His paintings start from a dynamic individual expression, with colour and shapes that create major cultural and social symbolism.

Entry: Free

Date & Time: 27 November- 4 December | Monday-Wednesday-Saturday 10.30am-5.30pm | Tuesday-Thursday-Friday 10.30am-8.30pm

Address: Kapopoulos Fine Arts, Skoufa 5, Athens 

What’s On in Athens: October 31

We are officially in the heart of autumn and the first week of November is bringing with it some exciting events taking place throughout different venues – including musical stages, galleries and theatres all across Athens- and we’ve rounded up the ones you don’t want to miss. 

Modern Love Exhibition 
Insights Greece - What's On in Athens: October 31

How does flirting in the age of social media and online dating apps work? Can love blossom in the “mind” of a robot or the wreckage of a lost life? Are intimacy and tenderness measurable quantities? The exhibition of the National Museum of Contemporary Art entitled “Modern Love: The Love in the Years of Cold Intimacy” raises all these questions and more. This popular project is the result of a fruitful collaboration between 24 artists and the artistic director of the museum, Katerina Gregou.

Entry: €8

Date & Time: 1-5 November, Tuesday-Sunday 11 am-7 pm

Address: Kallirois Ave. & Amvr. Frantzi Street, National Museum of Contemporary Art, Athens

T: +30 211 101 9000

“Witches of Salem”
Insights Greece - What's On in Athens: October 31

Arthur Miller’s fascinating theatrical allegory will be broadcast at Athens Concert Hall, straight from the Olivier Stage of London’s National Theater. Lindsey Turner directs the new, contemporary production of the great American author’s masterpiece, with Erin Doherty and Brendan Cowell in the leading roles. Miller’s play “The Salem Witches” is based on true events that occurred in Salem, Massachusetts in 1692, which resulted in the hanging of twenty innocent people.

Entry: Ticket prices: €8 – €15

Date & Time: 2 November, 8 pm

Address: The Athens Concert Hall (Megaron), 115 Vasilissis Sofias Avenue, Athens,

Website: megaron.gr

Some Shreds: Happening at the Edge
Insights Greece - What's On in Athens: October 31

Νo need to head to the far East to discover the next generation of Hong Kong artistic talents, as the Phoenix Athens Gallery is presenting them in its latest exhibition, right in the heart of Athens. “Some Shreds: Happening at the Edge” is a cool group exhibition showcasing artworks of several artistic media including visual art, video installations, choreography, and live music performances. 

Entry: Free

Date & Time: 1-3 November, Monday-Friday 7-11 pm, weekends by appointment

Address: Phoenix Athens, 87 Asklipiou, Exarchia 114 72

Website: phoenixathens.org

Μorfes” Exhibition at Sotiropoulos Art Gallery
Insights Greece - What's On in Athens: October 31

Sotiropoulos Art Gallery opens the autumn artistic season with the group exhibition of paintings entitled “Morfes” (forms). Curated by Fotis Sotiropoulos (gallery manager), it’s part of the gallery’s new initiative “NEW EYES | Contemporary, young creators”, which aims to promote a range of new artists. The focus of this exhibition is the human form through the conversation of five contemporary visual artists. Realism, expressionist writing and the abstract mood coexist fruitfully in this project, allowing the audience to appreciate the varied approaches each artist has taken to representing the human form.

Entry: Free

Date & Time: Tuesday, Thursday, Friday 12 am-8 pm | Wednesday, Saturday 12 am- 4 pm

Address: Mavromixali 3, Athens 

Website: Sotiropoulos.gr

Athens English Comedy Club
Insights Greece - What's On in Athens: October 31

The Athens English Comedy Club is back and better than ever! Founded in 2019, this club is the only place in Athens where performances are all in English. Whether you’re a seasoned comedian or just looking for a good laugh, you can join if you are looking for a night of live comedy- just make sure to bring your best punch line!

Entry: €10- €17

Date & Time: 1-5 November, 8:40 pm

Address: Eliart Theater, 127 Konstantinopoleos, Gazi

Website: more.com

Samara Joy & Trio
Insights Greece - What's On in Athens: October 31

Samara Joy’s career took off when she won the Sarah Vaughn International Jazz Singing Competition in 2019. Since then, the international press has idolized the American diva for her rich voice and velvet vocal timbre. Being named a worthy successor to Ella Fitzgerald and Billie Holiday, Samara was also awarded two Grammys in 2023, in the categories of Best New Artist and Best Jazz Vocal Album. This is a concert you don’t want to miss if you love jazz music! 

Entry: €14- €35

Date & Time: 5 November, 8:30 pm

Address: The Athens Concert Hall (Megaron), 115 Vasilissis Sofias Avenue, Athens,

Tickets: megaron.gr

Exploring Athens’ Modern Art Scene With A Bespoke Art Tour

ARTHENS is Athens’ only luxury art tour and art consulting company, which immerses its guests in the cultural life of the Greek capital. 

Hosted by Theodora Koumoundourou, an experienced contemporary art professional who has a special connection with the city (having been born and raised there) these unique and tailored experiences allow visitors to explore the best modern art shows and studios the city has to offer. 

Insights Greece - Exploring Athens' Modern Art Scene With A Bespoke Art Tour
Art consultant Theodora Koumoundourou

Art consultant and founder of ARTHENS, Theodora loves sharing her “insider’s” knowledge with her small tour groups as she takes her clients behind the scenes of Athens’ vibrant modern art community, introducing them directly to young up-and-coming, as well as established artists. 

Having worked for various art galleries, art consultancies and museums through the years, including Edel Assanti and Ione & Mann in London, CAN Christina Androulidaki Gallery, Dio Horia Art Platform and The Benaki Museum in Athens, Theodora graduated from Goldsmiths, University of London with an MA (Hons) in Contemporary Art Theory and has acquired diplomas from Sotheby’s in Art Law and Buying and Selling in Auctions.

We recently had a chat with Theodora about her luxury bespoke art tour company that is slowly expanding and will soon include tours that go beyond Athens! 

When did your passion for art begin?

I guess my passion for art began while travelling with my family. We always travelled abroad every summer and it was a tradition to visit as many museums or exhibitions as possible at the places we visited. Also, the fact that we had a lot of artists and creatives in our inner family circle helped too.

Tell us more about your work and studies. 

My bachelor’s degree was in Fashion and Marketing but from the beginning, I realised that it was not exactly my calling. I was torn between studying art history or fashion, so following art was a natural progression. During my fashion degree, I started some short courses in art at the Sotheby’s Institute of Art in London, where I studied Art Law and Buying and Selling in Auction. That was a good foundation and when I graduated with my bachelor’s degree, I decided to get some experience in art before jumping into a master’s degree. That’s when I moved back to Athens and started an internship at Benaki Museum and at CAN Christina Androulidaki Gallery. Later on, I applied to Goldsmiths University and I was accepted to study for their MA in Art Theory degree. During my Master’s degree, I was working at Edel Assanti Gallery and Ione & Mann art advisory.

When did you launch ARTHENS and how did the idea come about?

After receiving my Master’s at Goldsmiths, I decided to return to Athens. I was interested in art advising and working with young artists, but I hadn’t yet identified what would be my next step. During my first summer back in Greece, I had a few friends from London visiting and naturally I arranged cultural activities for our group. I did my research on the exhibitions based on their interests and I scheduled visits to some artist studios, as I have a lot of friends who are artists. This was during the time that a lot of young creatives who had left Greece either to study or find a better job abroad relocated to Athens, so the city was buzzing and there was great creative energy. 

That’s when I realised there wasn’t a company in Athens that provided people with an interest in art with high-quality bespoke art tours; not only to deliver a satisfactory result to the client but also because there are so many different artists and shows to choose from.

I created ARTHENS for collectors and art lovers, so they can discover modern art in Athens; to meet with local artists in their studios, and if interested to also buy art while visiting the city. A sort of souvenir if you wish from their travels. 

Furthermore, the art consulting side of ARTHENS is a way to support the local art scene. While introducing our galleries and artists to people from abroad, it’s also a great promotion for our cultural tourism.

How would you describe Athens’ current art scene?

I believe that since 2017-2018 the art scene of Athens has been growing and transforming. When the “wave” of Greek creatives left for abroad and returned back to Greece, they brought with them their experiences and knowledge, so the art scene was instantly “updated and refreshed”. Six years later and this creative notion hasn’t stopped, as I see a lot of foreign creatives moving to Athens constantly and organising their own projects.  Athens is a city that’s very inviting to foreigners and it is very easy to meet people here and interact. The artist-run spaces, the independent art projects and exhibitions paired with top-notch exhibitions of renowned artists in big museums and galleries are an alluring “stage” for people. 

Tell us more about your art tours and bespoke itineraries.

We provide three types of art tour services: The Contemporary Art tour, the Collector’s tour and the Corporate Art tour & Events.

The Collector’s tour is a bespoke art tour service for individuals who have already started their collecting journey and would like to explore the Greek art market. In case of art purchases, ARTHENS provides them with art advising and handling services such as arranging the documentation, insurance and shipping for them.

The Corporate Art tour is basically an art tour service for bigger groups that want to visit Athens and explore its cultural scene. With this service, we create itineraries based on what the group wishes to visit regarding art and we plan their entire schedule around that- from the hotel that they will stay at, to transportation and the restaurants that they will dine in.

How many galleries would you visit during a tour?

A typical tour includes three gallery visits and one artist studio visit. Our tours are bespoke, so the clients can let us know how they would like the itinerary to be shaped. They can request to go to one gallery and one museum as they may have limited time; maybe visit only an artist’s studio, or we can arrange gallery visits in the evenings during their art openings. Whatever our clients want, we can provide them. However, I always encourage clients to visit artists’ studios. It is so special to meet artists in person- in their private creative space and to interact with them. 

Who are your tours designed for?

The tours are designed for people who are interested in art or in collecting and would like to explore Athens’ creative art scene in depth.

My associates and I are always up to date with all the exhibitions and new studios across the city. We try to include “fresh” activities and locations. It’s important for us to offer something refined and to build an exclusive experience for our clients. People and places that can’t be found with a “Google search”. 

Are there any additional services you provide for clients? 

We always inform and advise our clients on where to eat, where to dance, or where to have a beautiful walk in the city. For larger groups, we are able to provide help with restaurant choices, bookings, hotels and transportation.

Insights Greece - Exploring Athens' Modern Art Scene With A Bespoke Art Tour

How far in advance should people get in contact with you?

Ideally, people who are interested in our tours need to contact us a week in advance, in order for us to have time to analyse their interests and find the proper exhibitions and experiences. 

Finally, are you also able to organise art tours in other parts of Greece?

Yes, starting this summer we will be providing art day trips to Hydra for people interested in exploring the island’s vibrant art scene. Some activities include a visit to DESTE Slaughterhouse, where every summer Mr Dakis Joannou and his team create exhibitions by prominent and established artists such as Kara Walker, Kiki Smith, Urs Fischer and others, as well as visits to artist studios around the island.

Hydra was a famous destination during the 50s for artists, directors and poets to retreat and create on the island, such as Marc Chagall, Henry Miller, Leonard Cohen, and Le Corbusier- just to name a few.  This has rendered Hydra a centre of artistic creation and many have chosen this island for their summer retreat. I believe that it would be an amazing experience for visitors from abroad to be able to experience a different side of the island during their visit.

Furthermore, as of late, we have started organising art trips abroad. This summer we will be able to provide organised art trips to the Venice Biennale. This will be a three-day tour for people who want to get away on the weekend. Stay tuned for more information on the upcoming art trip!

For more details head to ARTHENS 

Exploring Athens’ Art Scene With an Amazing Gallery Walk

Art lovers in Athens are invited to view hundreds of paintings, sculptures, ceramics and photography with two amazing evenings of art walks through the city- as the Athens Gallery Walk gives visitors the chance to explore a variety of Athenian galleries that feature a wide range of Greek and international art.

Exhibiting a number of art mediums, styles, and local artists, as well as artists from around the world; the 36 Athenian art galleries participating in this year’s event will be open to the public until 8 pm tonight, Thursday, May 12, and tomorrow Friday, May 13; giving visitors the chance to check out their new exhibitions and to meet many of the artists who will be there for an open dialogue. 

The Gallery Walk has been organised by the Athens Culture Net of the Municipality of Athens in collaboration with the Panhellenic Association of Art Galleries (PSAT) and Art Athina, and is part of This is Athens City Festival, which is taking place throughout the entire month of May. 

The event is free to the public and aims to promote the cultural potential of Athens and highlight the artistic creation that has contributed decisively in recent years to the evolution of the capital into a centre and modern culture. 

Athens’ Culture, Sports, and Youth Organization (OPANDA) will also participate, with exhibitions at five public buildings: the city’s Municipality Gallery, the Municipality Arts Center, the ‘Melina’ Cultural Center, and the foyer of the Olympia Theater.

Date: 12-13 May 2022

Admission: Free entry 

The following galleries are participating in the Gallery Walk:

1. A.antonopoulou.art – Aristofanous 20

2. Agathi Kartalos Art Gallery – Mithimnis 12 & Eptanisou

3. Alibi Gallery – Sarri 12

4. AlloucheBenias Gallery – Kanari 1

5. ALMA Contemporary Art Gallery – Ipsiladou 24

6. Argo Gallery – Neofitou Douka 5

7. Art Appel Gallery – Neofitou Vamva 5

8. ArtZone42 – Vasileos Konstadinou 42

9. ASTROLAVOS Art Galleries – Xanthipou 11

10. Athens Art Gallery – Glikonos 4

11. CHEAPART – Andrea Metaxa 25

12. CITRONNE Gallery – Patriarhou Ioakim 19, 4th floor

13. Crux Galerie – Sekeri 4

14. Ekfrasi-Yianna Grammatopoulou Gallery – Valaoritou 9Α

15. Eleftheria Tseliou Gallery – Iraklitou 3

16. Eleni Koroneou Gallery, Dimofondos 30

17. Ersi Gallery – Kleomenous 4

18. Evripides Art Gallery – Iraklitou 10

19. Gallery 7 – Solonos 20

20. Gallery Genesis – Haritos 35

21. Ikastikos Κiklos – Akadimias 6

22. Ileana Tounta – Armatolon & Klefton 48

23. Kalfayan Gallery – Haritos 11

24. Peritechnon Karteris Art Gallery – Irodotou 5

25. Rebecca Camhi Gallery – Leonidou 9

26. Roma Gallery – Roma 5

27. Sianti Gallery – Vasileos Alexandrou 2

28. Gallery Skoufa – Skoufa 4

29. Technohoros Art Gallery – Lebesi 12

30. The Breeder – Iasonos 45

31. Zoumboulakis Galleries – Platia Kolonakiou 20

32. Athens Municipal Arts Center – Eleftherias Park

33. Athens Municipal Gallery (Building A)

34. Cultural Center ”Melina” Municipality of Athens – Iraklidon 66

35. Athens Municipal Gallery, Metaxourgio (Building B) Leonidou & Millerou

36. Olympia Municipal Music Theater ”Maria Kalas” – Akadimias 59

More details can be found here 

Visiting the Grand Municipal Theatre of Piraeus

Having first opened its doors in 1895, the Municipal Theatre of Piraeus immediately became a jewel in Athens, as well as a cultural landmark of the city – offering inspiration and creation for the Greek theatre and music scene.

Considered a theatre of rich history and beauty, it is housed in a grand neoclassical building designed by architect Ioannis Lazarimos, who through his work on this project was able to highlight some of the finest examples of 19th Century Greek architecture. 

Insights Greece - Visiting the Grand Municipal Theatre of Piraeus
Outside the theatre

The style of the building is described as “classicist”, and is highly influenced by German architect Ernst Moritz Theodore Ziller, who designed hundreds of buildings in Athens and was the most famous architect in Greece at the end of the 19th Century.

The façade of the theatre features four Corinthian columns and a condiment; inside, the stage is considered one of the last surviving monuments of the Baroque era in Europe. It consists of a proscenium and a space for the orchestra, and the auditorium features 1300 seats with stalls, boxes, and balconies that are arranged over four levels. 

The main room was lit by an enormous chandelier, which can still be seen today. There were also spacious dressing rooms and a luxurious sitting lounge for the actors, while the two-level foyer also hosted balls and exhibitions by renowned Greek artists.

Over the years, a range of prominent Greek directors and actors have performed on this stage and it’s considered one of the best theatres in the country. Hosting both theatrical and musical performances, events and exhibitions has played a major role in the city’s cultural scene.

Insights Greece - Visiting the Grand Municipal Theatre of Piraeus
One of Greece’s most beautiful theatres

Since it first opened, regular maintenance work was done to keep it fresh and inviting, and in 2008, a complete restoration began. In 2013, the stunning building re-opened its doors to the public and curtains were raised once again.

Today, the Municipal Theatre of Piraeus is an imposing neoclassical monument with an exceptional stage, fully operational, with a unique flair. Its extraordinary architecture design still shines through and is worth viewing close up when you are visiting the area, and if you happen to be able to catch a show here, you will undoubtedly be impressed. 

A: Leof. Ir. Politechniou 32, Piraeus 

Municipal Theatre of Piraeus 

“Kallos the Ultimate Beauty” Exhibition in Athens

An exquisite exhibition exploring the concept of beauty through 300 antiquities that have been gathered from museums and collections in Greece and abroad, is currently taking place at the Museum of Cycladic Art in Athens.

On display are three hundred emblematic antiquities from fifty-two museums, collections, and Ephorates of Antiquities throughout Greece, as well as from Italy, and the Vatican. The majority are appearing for the first time outside of the museums of their provenance.

The exhibition named “Kallos. The Ultimate Beauty” was created by Professor Nikolaos Chr. Stampolidis, Director of the Acropolis Museum, former Director of the Museum of Cycladic Art, and Dr. Ioannis D. Fappas, Curator of Antiquities at the museum. With selected exhibits dating mainly from the seventh to the first century BC  (from the Archaic to the Hellenistic period) they are complemented by a handful of works of Roman times. 

“The ancient Greek word Kallos means ‘beauty’ and is associated with both females and males. We wanted to complete the concept of beauty by also including elements from the philosophical beliefs of the ancient Greeks, elements of virtue, such as wisdom, heroism, self-denial, noble rivalry, and kindness. The Ancient Greeks believed that all these virtues were an integral part of beauty,” announced  Sandra Marinopoulou, President & CEO of the Museum of Cycladic Art.

Visitors are able to see statues, vases, sherds (broken ceramics), mirrors, jewellery, perfume vases, accessories of the toilette and beautification (cosmetic unguents, pigments, and so on), objects of clay, stone metal, and terracottas of various periods, mainly Archaic, Classical and Hellenistic figurines, tools for styling the hair, such as iron scissors, little combs, and so on.

The exhibition also hosts a number of antiquities from Magna Graecia, enabling the visitor to understand the phenomenon of the dispersion of the notion of Kallos also to the Greek colonies in the West; with artifacts from the Vatican Museum, the Archaeological Museums of Florence, Naples, Rome, Bologna, Venice, Syracuse, Catania and the National Archaeological Park of Ostia.

A: Neophytou Douka 4, Athens

Dates: Until the 16th of January, 2022 

Opening hours:

Monday, Wednesday, Saturday: 10 am  to 5 pm 
Thursday, Friday: 10 am  to 8 pm 
Sunday: 11 am to 5 pm 
Tuesday: Closed 

Images courtesy of Paris Tavitian © Museum of Cycladic Art

Art Athina Returns in November 2021 

Greece’s largest annual international visual art event Art Athina returns both digitally and in-person this year.

Showcasing a curated selection of local and international galleries from Europe, America, and the Oceania region, this edition will be presented at the landmark King George Hotel at Syntagma Square.

Under the auspices of the President of the Hellenic Republic, Katerina Sakellaropoulou, the event will take place through the digital platform Art Athina Virtual 2021 and with the exhibition Art Athina Pop Up.

It will be held digitally from November 1 to November 30 and can be visited in person on the ground floor of the King George Hotel in Syntagma Square on November 12-21. 

More than 45 galleries from Greece and abroad will participate in the event. The program of this year’s Art Athina includes speeches in the foyer of the Pallas Theater, videos, and performances that will have as a starting point the renewed website of the event and sometimes the streets of the city.

The Panhellenic Association of Art Galleries and the team of Art Athina with artistic director Stamatia Dimitrakopoulou are responsible for the event.

Launched in 1993 by the Hellenic Art Galleries Association, Art-Athina has been promoting Greek contemporary art creation and has been established as a great meeting point for artists from the Greek and the wider international community. It is now the biggest annual international visual art event in Greece.