Discover a curated mix of Athenian favourites set in timeless old buildings and vibrant new neighbourhoods- a reflection of a city where history and modern energy live side by side.

By Christina Loridas

The city of Athens never fails to impress with its unassuming charm- and the world is taking notice. Greece’s capital boasts a booming food scene, cool bars, creative studios, and standout coffee spots tucked between neoclassical facades. Add to that a diverse mix of museums and universities, leafy gardens, and a (mostly reliable) Metro, and you’ve got a city that’s always in motion.

This ever-evolving capital of grit and glamour, passion and vibrance, 3am cocktail bars, Riviera day spots, and therapeutic lakes has so much to offer- and here we’ve rounded up of some of our favourite places. 

We’re only scratching the surface, but dive in and you’ll see how Athens’ mix of old haunts, new ideas, and reimagined spaces tells the real story of the city.

Coffee and stroll

For an early morning pick-me-up or an anytime caffeine ritual, Foyer Espresso Bar in Pangrati is a must. Funky, imaginative, and effortlessly vibrant, it’s the brainchild of coffee connoisseur Lisa Zancanella, who hails from Verona and splits her time between Lisbon and Athens- co-owning both SO Coffee Roasters in Portugal andFoyer here in the Greek capital. The result is a space that blends Italian precision with Mediterranean warmth- part coffee lab, part neighbourhood hub- where the aroma of freshly baked treats fills the air.

Just a short wander away, Vryssaki Art Fix in Monastiraki offers a completely different kind of escape. Hidden in the heart of Plaka, this restored neoclassical beauty is an art café and cultural space rolled into one. With local works lining the walls, an airy courtyard, and a rooftop terrace with postcard-perfect views of the Acropolis, it’s a favourite for creative souls seeking inspiration- or simply a quiet moment with a perfectly brewed coffee.

Lunch in the city…

A true journey for the taste buds, Nolan and its sister bakery Sweet Nolan make the perfect stop in the heart of downtown Syntagma. Since opening in 2016, chef Michalis Nourloglou has been serving a fresh take on Mediterranean cuisine with playful global influences- think sea bass tartare with pistachio and dates, or crab paired with lychee and raspberry. The result is a dining experience that’s earned Nolan a MICHELIN Bib Gourmand and a loyal local following. Next door, Sweet Nolan keeps the indulgence going with beautifully crafted desserts and treats to take home.

Over in Exarcheia, Black Salami has been rewriting the rules of bread-making since opening in 2021. Anthony Kazakos uses ethically sourced flour from Turin and puts a bold spin on Greek comfort food- the moussaka sandwich, layered with beef ragù, smoked béchamel, and roasted eggplant, is a standout. Everything, from the mayo to the sauerkraut, is made in-house. Pair it with great coffee or stop by for breakfast; this spot captures the creative spirit of a neighbourhood in constant flux. Go early, as the line for fresh bread starts before the doors open.

A no-frills gem tucked in a quieter corner just a short walk from Monastiraki, Atlantikos serves up traditional seafood and taverna classics with effortless charm. Famous for their chickpeas with smoked fish and lightly fried seafood, it’s a pleasant surprise to find dishes this fresh in the heart of Athens at prices that feel entirely reasonable. Grab a seat outside in the alley for prime people-watching as locals drift by, and enjoy perfectly crisped calamari, baked sea bass, or creamy fava- each plate a testament to the simple, enduring quality that keeps Athenians coming back.

Dinner After Dark

Seawolf was a standout discovery this summer, an unassuming yet effortlessly charming spot for dinner. The menu is concise but beautifully executed, celebrating the freshness of the sea with dishes like tuna tartare, ceviche, cod tempura, and giouvetsi. Set against a backdrop of cozy stone walls, it’s the kind of place where simplicity feels luxurious. Pair it all with a glass of wine for a warm, unpretentious evening, then wander through the neighbourhood, where cocktail bars spill out onto the pavements and the night fills with quiet energy.

In Vrilissia, Kinjo brings a refined approach to Japanese dining, led by chef Nick, who draws on 23 years of experience and a simple yet powerful philosophy: master the craft, honour the details, and let tradition meet innovation. The result is an exceptional restobar serving some of the city’s finest sushi- precise, balanced, and deeply satisfying.

Another favourite, Black Duck, is a charming oasis in central Athens that blends lush surroundings with an eclectic Mediterranean menu. Dine in the garden under the summer stars, or retreat indoors during the cooler months, where history meets intimacy- the building once served as the residence of Greece’s first royal couple, Otto and Amalia.

Hidden Wine Bars

Tucked away from the city’s bustle, Heteroclito Cave and Bar à Vin is a charming, well-stocked wine bar that feels effortlessly local. With both indoor and outdoor seating, it’s the kind of place where you can settle in for hours, tasting your way through Greece’s diverse wine regions. The list features more than 200 Greek labels, with a particular focus on natural wines, best enjoyed alongside small European plates, artisan cheeses, and cured meats. A relaxed, intimate spot for anyone who loves a good pour and a great atmosphere.

For a more refined experience, Oinoscent, (Athens’ first wine bar) offers a curated selection of local and international wines served with sophistication and style. What began as a humble wine cellar has evolved into a full restaurant, where inventive dishes meet expert pairings. The scallop crudo, local salami, and al limone spaghetti are standouts, complemented by a team of sommeliers who guide you through every glass with ease and enthusiasm.

Golden Hour Spritz

This spot deserves a category all its own and it’s one of our absolute favourites in Athens! Drupes Spritzeria in Koukaki is perfect at any hour: morning coffee, golden-hour aperitivo, or late-night catch-ups. A true family affair, it all began with the much-loved Takis Bakery just around the corner, before evolving into Drupes, inspired by Italy’s effortless café culture. Blending the warmth of a neighbourhood bakery with the charm of an Italian espresso and wine bar, it became Athens’ first spritzeria- now celebrating ten years.

All wines here come from a single cantina, Bugaioni in Verona, adding a personal touch to every glass. Once a humble storage room, the space has been transformed with care into a laid-back hideaway- the ideal spot for a summer Aperol and snack, or a cozy retreat when the weather turns cool.

Art, Studios, Shops & More

Naked Summers in Exarcheia is a vibrant art studio and showroom founded by Greek painter and designer Christina Mandilari. With a background in Archaeology and Art History, Mandilari explores the intimate relationship between nature and human emotion. Her collections- spanning paintings, ceramics, clothing, and home accessories- capture the essence of Mediterranean summers, brought to life through traditional silkscreen printing. The space radiates warmth and creativity, offering a modern yet nostalgic glimpse into Athens’ artistic spirit.

Nestled in the chic streets of Kolonaki, The Benaki Museum of Greek Culture stands as a testament to Athens’ rich heritage. Once the home of the Benakis family, the neoclassical building was converted into a museum in 1930 to showcase the extraordinary collections of Antonis Benakis. Visitors can trace Greek history and culture from ancient prehistory to the 20th century across thoughtfully curated galleries. Just a short walk from the National Garden and Hellenic Parliament, it’s an essential stop for anyone looking to immerse themselves in the city’s cultural heartbeat.

Through the charming lanes of Plaka, Forget Me Not Athens offers a contemporary take on Greek design and craftsmanship. The shop features an ever-evolving mix of locally made art, fashion, and home accessories, introducing fresh talent alongside established makers. Each visit promises new discoveries (playful prints, chic ceramics, and unique keepsakes) making it a perennial favourite for stylish souvenirs and gifts.

Main image by Christina Loridas

Travel writer Christina Loridas brings a lifetime of summers spent between the U.S. and Greece. Over the years, she has drawn deep inspiration from the country’s landscapes, culture, and the people she has come to know and love. With a keen eye for detail and a natural curiosity, Christina explores the intersections of tradition and modern life, uncovering the hidden corners, local favourites, and timeless experiences that make each destination unforgettable. Her first guide for us, on Athens, reflects this passion- a personal journey through the city’s streets, flavours, and stories.