Mid-Apollonos Street: Where to Shop for Greek Orthodox Items in Athens

Venture outside the tourist box to see how Athens’ ever-changing present syncs with its age-old past! The book ‘111 Places in Athens You Shouldn’t Miss’ was written to offer you exactly that.

This is just one of 10 unmissable places that even locals often miss, offered exclusively for IN+SIGHTS GREECE readers by the guide’s publishers EMONS.

Insights Greece - Mid-Apollonos Street: Where to Shop for Greek Orthodox Items in Athens

From halfway down Apollonos Street you’ll start noticing a whole series of very different kinds of shops, their windows decorated with glittering religious bric-à-brac and paraphernalia. Look inside and observe jewel-encrusted crosses, hand-painted icons, and churchy candelabras. Prepare yourself to see around 20 such shops ahead; on both sides of the street, you can feast your eyes on a vast array of ecclesiastical accessories and elaborately hand-crafted cloths for liturgical garments.

Reflecting the massive influence of the Greek Orthodox Church in a country where religion is a core element of national identity, the shops stream all the way to Agia Filothei Street, right behind the Metropolitan Cathedral of Athens. Some are modern and polished, while others belong to a long-gone era. The first such shop to open in 1926 belongs to renowned iconographer Konstantinos Zouvelos, whose work can be seen in churches around Greece as well as New York, San Francisco and Vancouver. With his wife and son, they create religious artefacts of all varieties; among their one-of-a-kind pieces are an elaborate, stone-encrusted silver brooch shaped like the Star of Bethlehem with an engraving of the Virgin Mary on mammoth tusk at its centre.

A little further down look out for Tasi, opened in 1986, which is jam-packed with hand-painted icons, incense burners and good luck charms featuring saints. See the many tamata, small metal plaques, each depicting an ailing part of the body and used as a votive offering, usually placed on a miraculous icon in a church. Also rewarding is a visit to Hilton, which centres its trade on handmade mate- rials for every echelon of the clergy, selling everything from basic €100 plain black cotton robes to intricately designed, hand-sewn cloths in bold threads like silver or gold on velvet, satin and silk, worth up to €500 per metre.

Insights Greece - Mid-Apollonos Street: Where to Shop for Greek Orthodox Items in Athens

Address: Apollonos Street, Syntagma, Athens 10556

Getting there: Metro to Syntagma (M 2 & M 3)

Hours: Regular shop hours Mon, Wed & Sat 9am – 5.30pm, Tue, Thu & Fri 9am – 7.30pm.

Tip: Light a candle in the Athens Cathedral and see the relics of the city’s Patron Saint Agia Filothei, encased in a golden, bejewelled box.

111 Places in Athens That You Shouldn’t Miss can be found at all major bookstores worldwide as well as online at Amazon.

Our Essential A-Z Athens Guide for Wine Lovers

You’ll probably find decent, perhaps even great wine at most decent bars around Athens today. But if you want a place that specialises in wine and offers amazing varieties -that you can enjoy by the glass too – look no further than our guide! You’re welcome! 

A For Athens

Vibe: Smart-casual, friendly, relaxed rooftop bar with stunning views of the Acropolis and city.

Wine List: Greek and foreign wines in a newly extended cellar that can house up to 2,500 labels.

Food: Anything from the restaurant’s dinner menu, from burgers and malt chicken to finger foods and meze dishes. The sommelier is happy to suggest foods that pair well with your wine of choice.

Location: Miaouli 2, Monastiraki

Baratin

Vibe: Cosy, casual-chic, friendly, all-day bar-restaurant with small tables as well as a large monastic bench and an outdoor square.

Wine List: Around 140 labels from Greece and abroad, 42 of which can be sampled by the glass. Baratin’s knowledgeable and friendly sommeliers are happy to help you imbibe on exactly what you desire.

Food? Try the carefully sourced Greek cheeses, salads, sea bream risotto and cold cuts for an ideal accompaniment.

Location: Dekeleias Avenue 120, Nea Filadelfia

BoBo

Vibe: Trendy, chic, hipsterish

Wine List: Around 200 labels from Greece and abroad as well as cocktails made using Greek wines (not easy to find elsewhere!).

Food? Indulgent accompaniments to share with your wine buddies include cevice, roast beef with truffle sauce and homemade mayo, stuffed figs with caramelised onion and creamy goat cheese and bruschetta with Greek cheeses.

Location: Anastasiou Zinni 36, Koukaki

By The Glass

Vibe: In an elegant arcade facing the Russian Orthodox Church, chic, buzzy.

Wine List: You can choose among 250 Greek and global wine labels, 50 of which can be served by the glass using the Coravin system.

Food? An array of modern Mediterranean platters and appetizers, many of them designed especially to be paired with their wines.

Location: Filellinon and Georgiou Souri 3, Syntagma.

Cava Vegera

Vibe: Friendly, laid back and smart-casual.

Wine List: Over 1000 Greek and foreign labels.

Food? A menu based on deli products that are seasonal and make for great accompaniments to your wine of choice. The menu changes every three months.

Location: Poseidonos 11 & Vas. Pavlou 61, Voula.

Cinque Wine Bar & Deli

Vibe: An ebullient ambiance usually pervades in this compact, cosy and familial locale.

Wine List: Very special because here you’ll find only Greek indigenous varieties passionately sought out by the wine-fanatic owners. The Monastiraki store organizes excellent wine tastings.

Food? Homemade chutneys, great platters of deli foods from Greece and abroad.

Location:Agatharchou 15, Psyrri & 10 Vorreou St Monastiraki

Fabrica De Vino

Vibe: Modern, upbeat, elegant but unpretentious. A-buzz during weekend nights.

Wine List: 600 labels by 150 producers from around Greece, 20 of which that can be sampled by the glass.

Food? Mainly fish and seafood (try the fish fillet sandwich), as well as some well-prepared meat dishes.

Location: Emmanouil Benaki, Exarcheia

Fiali Wine Bar

Vibe: Elegant, minimal and fresh décor with a laid back, chic crowd.

Wine List: Selective and lesser-known but good-quality labels from small wine producers around the world, 40 of which can be sampled by the glass.

Food? A gratifying selection of tasty, cold and hot Tapas, salads, pizza and other comfort food.

Location: Dekelias 108, Nea Filadelfia

Heteroclito

Vibe: Cultural, homey, low-key chic.

Wine List: Over 200 labels from Greece and abroad.

Food? Homemade quiches and pies, platters of cheese and cold cuts.

Location:Fokionos 2 & Petraki 30, Monastiraki

Kiki de Grece

Vibe: Elegant, upbeat, smart-casual.

Wine List: Around 60 Greek and foreign wine labels.

Food? From appetizers to mains, you’ll find a great selection of Greek-Mediterranean dishes.

Location: Ipittou 4, Syntagma

Materia Prima

Vibe:  Contemporary, urban-chic and cosy.

Wine List: Over 500 wines from around Greece and abroad, including labels you won’t find in most other places. Expensive wines can be sampled by the glass using the Coravin method. Wines can also be bought to go.

Food? Breakfast and brunch during the day, finger foods and Mediterranean meals in the evenings.

Location: Falirou 68, Koukaki, across the EMST National Museum of Contemporary Art.

Monk grapes and spirits

Vibe: Arty post-industrial open terrace with a laid-back ambiance.

Wine List: 200 labels from 136 wineries in Greece and 16 countries, many expensive labels can be sampled by the glass via the Coravin method.

Food? Modern Greek cuisine.

Location: Aghias Eirinis Square, Monastiraki

Oinoscent

Vibe: Originally a wine shop that has now added seating, this is very much a wine-centric point in town for those who take wine seriously.

Wine List: Over 1000 labels from all over the world. Every week there is a new selection of wines that can be sampled by the glass.

Food? Cheese platters and Mediterranean dishes.

Location: Voulis 45-47, Syntagma.

Paleo

Vibe: Wine bottles line the high-ceilinged stone walls of what was once an old storehouse, and at the end of the room from top to bottom stands a large cava.

Wine List: Over 350 labels mainly from southern France, Spain, Italy and Greece.

Food? A decent range of Greek-Mediterranean cuisine, from appetisers to mains.

Location: Polidekous 39, Piraeus.

Scala Vinoteca

Vibe: Sophisticated, intense, stylish.

Wine List: Over 200 labels from Greece and abroad.

Food? Refined and contemporary Mediterranean dishes with influences from Latin America, Spain and Italy.

Location: 50 Sina str. & Anagnostopoulou, Kolonaki

Vinarte

Vibe: A stylish and classical-modern large open space ideal for work dos and larger gatherings.

Wine List: Over 250 labels from quality Greek winemakers and abroad, including a selection of hard to find Italian wines. Here you can try any wine you like by the glass via the Coravin method.

Food? Try the platter with aged cheeses and cold cuts, as well as other Mediterranean dishes.

Location: Marangou 18, Glyfada

Vintage

Vibe: A large, modern open space for smart-casual wining and dining with great service.

Wine List: The only place in Athens where you can choose among 600 labels to try by the glass – either a full glass or even just a half glass.

Food? Platters with quality cheeses and/or cold cuts, original Greek-inspired appetisers like Pastitsio croquettes and mains.

Location: Mitropoleos 66-68, Syntagma

Warehouse

Vibe: Sophisticated but unpretentious, laid back and indulgent.

Wine List: With a wine cellar stocked with over 500 Greek and foreign wine labels, Warehouse has become known for its quality selections and serves around 150 of them.

Food? Greek ingredients farmed by select small producers around the country, food platters and salads.

Location: Valtetsiou 21, Exarcheia

Wine Not

Vibe: Swing jazz music, after-work chill, industrial décor.

Wine List: Around 90 wine labels, 20 of which can be sampled by the glass.

Food? Try the cheese and cold cuts platter with homemade chutneys and jams.

Location: Kalogrezis 12, Halandri

Wine o’ Clock

Vibe: A tiny place with a few benches on the pavement where you can people-watch as you sip wine.

Wine List: Around 70 well selected wine labels, many of them from Greece and 20 of them that can be sampled by the glass.

Food? Small platters with flavoursome bites that are just what you need to accompany good wine.

Location: Lebessi 10, Makryianni

Wine Point

Vibe: Usually busy and lively, with occasional live gigs and a laid back, smart-casual crowd.

Wine List: Over 200 labels to choose from, and with a different Greek winery and its wines presented as a special every month.

Food? Finger foods and bites like bruschetta, olives, cold cuts and cheeses from around Greece.

Location: Athanasiou Diakou & Porinou 2, Makriyianni

Wine Station @ Chocolat Royal

Vibe: Jazzy (with occasional live gigs too) and easygoing with a chic twist. Beautuifully scenic outdoors with a view of the Parthenon to get drunk on.

Wine List: Regional wines from Greece that are really hard to find elsewhere, as well as top selections from foreign wineries. Around 160 labels of which 40 can be sampled by the glass.

Food? Choose anything you like from the Chocolat Royal Restaurant menu of contemporary Mediterranean cuisine.

Location: Apostolou Pavlou 27, Thisseio

Wine Up

Vibe: With a lovely outdoor garden, this is the ideal place to relax with friends in a casual set-up and simply enjoy great wine in the summer months, but gets a little more trendy and modern indoors during cooler months.

Wine List: Featuring over 200 Greek labels, many of which are organic and produced by small quality wineries around Greece.

Food? A variety of platters starring quality Greek seasonal ingredients from creamy cheeses and punchy olives to juicy tomatoes.

Location: Eleftheriou Venizelou 86, Petroupoli

Lavender Cove: Privacy, Tranquility and Natural Splendour

A collection of deluxe apartments and suites in the Corinthian seaside town of Korfos make for an idyllic year-round stay, just an hour’s distance from Athens! 

Korfos in Corinthia, is a destination that’s kept a bit of a secret by those who love it so dearly that they don’t want to see it ruined by tourism.

The tree-speckled shoreline is shielded from the wind, the central road is lined by rows of charmingly old fashioned tavernas and simple stores, above which rise a few tiers of picturesque houses on a verdant hill. All styles of boats bob in the waters, and sailboats and yachts are anchored at the marina. The amphitheatrically shaped fishing village is especially idyllic for those seeking refuge from the hustle and bustle of the city or more boisterous destinations. Only over an hour and a half from Athens, this is a wonderful destination for swimming in clean, lovely waters and sunbathing on pebble and sand beaches, eat fresh fish, trek along the lush hills or just savour a serene holiday.

Location

Korfos is in southeastern Corinthia in the Peloponnese, around 35km from the Corinth Canal. On your way down along winding roads take in the splendour of the blue sea and verdant hills that surround it. Just a short drive from Athens as well as being near Spetses and Poros, it can be a destination in itself, or a great base for lovely day trips by car or boat. It’s also a wonderful place for snorkeling, hiking, sailing, cycling, SUP and as of recently since a school opened up, surfing.

Built in 2017, Lavender Cove is a collection of beautifully built – and organically, artfully-integrated in the landscape – luxurious accommodations just minutes from a small, pretty beach. From apartments that face the garden or pool to larger sea-facing suites with a private pool, the accommodations provide facilities like a kitchenette, two large shared swimming pools surrounded by poufs, sun loungers, and umbrellas, and a sprawling lavender garden.

Services

The highly professional, familial, and very helpful Lavender Cove team expertly advises guests on everything from where to dine, hike or swim in the town to other activities in the vicinity. Visit monasteries, archaeological sites, nearby villages, isolated beaches with splendid waters, and beautiful trails. Lavender Cove also rents out bicycles free of charge and can arrange for you to have a yoga or other lesson upon demand.

Style & Character

Immediately upon arriving at Lavender Cove we enjoyed being immersed in the silence, beauty and allure of the surrounding nature. The lavender-filled garden (inspired by the lavender fields of France), includes many other indigenous aromatic herbs to discover, like rose geranium, oregano, thyme, rosemary and lemon verbena. The vibe is laid back, tranquil, quiet and restorative, and it’s particularly comforting to be staying in a beautiful place by the sea with no other buildings or infrastructure nearby.

Rooms

Lavender Cove is made up of five luxury villas that are separated into 10 apartments, and three luxury suites set on the sea-facing hillside of Korfos. The modern, clean and lavish accommodations are elegantly decorated in a soothing and uplifting style, with hints of local tradition and references to the surrounding nature. The minimalist decor combines the neutral tones of the floors, walls and furniture with pops of colours like blues, whites, yellows and greens, depending on the theme of each residence. The bathrooms include complimentary toiletries by Greek organic brand Korres. Free WiFi is offered to all visitors. The accommodations are held in high esteem by their foreign and local visitors, with ratings such as 9.2 on booking.com, 9.6 on hotel.com and 4.5 out of five on Tripadvisor.

Food and drinks

Guests are offered a feast-like breakfast, delivered by staff to beach accommodation between 8:30-10:30. You’ll receive baskets full of delicious foods and drinks, from warm local pastries to eggs, cheese, condiments, bread, milk, fresh juice, fruit, and more. Throughout the day guests can order a snack or light meal or drinks in-room or
stroll/drive to any nearby taverna for super-fresh fish or a grocery store to shop for foods that can be cooked in the private, fully-equipped kitchenette. Korfos has two seaside, casual bar-clubs but is mostly on the quiet side at night. Most of the tavernas here serve good food, but we especially liked Valera, known for its excellent fresh fish as well as quality grilled meats and many homemade sides (visit here at sunset and book a table on the beach for the best experience) and fish tavernas Celana and To Delfini. For drinks head to Exo All Day, where you can spend the entire day swimming too as it provides sun loungers and umbrellas for rent. For desserts like waffles and ice cream go to Psyllos on the coast.

Shop

Korfos has one modern pharmacy selling all the essential medications, supplements, and cosmetics, two mini-markets, a few shops like Kapouzi and Eleven selling beachwear, beach accessories (from masks and flippers to towels and umbrellas), and Souvenir Korfos where you’ll find stylish clothes and accessories like swimsuits, silk scarves, jewellery, and hats as well as tasteful home décor items.

Price range 

Between 150 and 350 € in the high season, depending on the accommodation.

Ideal for…

Families (the larger suites can be given joint access), couples, or a group of friends in the summer months. Retirees during spring or autumn. Writers, hikers, painters, or workshop organisers during the cooler months.

Where Health Food Fans Can Shop in Athens

Organic, vegan, gluten-free, blessed by angels before packaging – you name it and you’ll be able to find a store selling it.

Mangos, papayas and avocados from Crete. Endless varieties of Greek and exotic mushrooms and truffles from Epirus and Evia. Seitan, vegan cheese, kale crackers, gluten-free-anything and other packaged vegan or super healthy bioproducts. Ethically farmed meat and fish. Biodynamic and organic wines. Pure olive oil and honey of all grades, shades and tastes. Salt pipes and Neti pots. Health supplements in the form of liquids, potions, capsules, and powders. Oil press extractors. By now the health-food and alternative wellness trend is in full swing in Athens and bio minimarkets are regularly opening their doors to new streams of keen and increasingly savvy customers. Here’s our reliable guide to the best places where you can stock up in the capital.

Insights Greece - Where Health Food Fans Can Shop in Athens

Gaia’s Dora (Online)

What you’ll find: Organic food products, vegan, vegetarian and raw food products, health supplements, household cleaning products and essential oils. Anything special? A great variety of organic pasta from Greece and abroad.

Four Seasons Bio (30 Nikis, Syntagma)

What you’ll find: Fresh groceries (including avocadoes, mushrooms, papayas and mangos from Crete and Evia) eco-friendly cosmetics, organic foods and household cleaning products and cosmetics from around Greece and the world. Anything really special? The store can create a Bach flower remedy blend of your choice at a good price.  

Bamboo Vegan (102 Solonos & Mavromichali, Exarcheia)

What you’ll find: As the store’s name suggests, there are vegan food products a-plenty here – a broad variety of meat and cheese alternatives as well as sweets. Also, a good range of green cosmetics, superfoods and supplements. Anything really special? Vegan pet food.

Viofos – Organic Products (Themistokleous 3, Exarcheia)

Insights Greece - Where Health Food Fans Can Shop in Athens

What you’ll find: Organic food products, superfoods, health supplements, household cleaning products, natural/green/ethically produced cosmetics for face and body. Anything special? A broad variety of gluten-free products.

Viologiko Horio (in Kolonaki, Psychiko, Voula, Nea Smyrni)

What you’ll find: A supermarket chain in many areas of Attica, this is where you’ll find practically anything and everything organic, fair trade, ethically farmed, vegan, gluten free and green. Anything special? A huge selection of healthy kid-centric products in the food and cosmetics categories.

Kampos Biomarket (Filellinon 2 & Mitropoleos, Syntagma) 

What you’ll find: A more than satisfying array of fresh food products (groceries and refrigerated goods, as well as frozen, dried and other packaged foods from Greece and abroad. Essential oils, flower remedies, superfoods, supplements and books.Anything really special? The cosmetics range includes a large variety of face and body products including organic Henna hair dyes.

Bioway (57 Panepistimiou, Omonia)

What you’ll find: Organic food products of all varieties, superfoods, supplements and cosmetics. Anything special?A great array of innovative wellness-related equipment and appliances like humidifiers, dehydrators, wooden flour mills, blenders, juicers, an oil press extractor, a salt pipe and ecological cups.

Bioshop (30 Veikou Ave, Galatsi)

What you’ll findBooks, gardening accessories and products. Organic cosmetics, eco household items, supplements and superfoods and an array of quality health foods. Anything special? A good range of wellness tools and items like salt inhalers and salt crystal lighting.

 

Greek-Asian Fusion Restaurant that Athenians Can’t Get Enough Of

In its fifth year of resolutely holding its status as a trendy, Greek-Asian fusion restaurant with a unique menu of gourmet-style comfort food, Nolan is definitely a place to visit.

Its location in Athens’ Asian food block, where you’ll find several Chinese and Japanese restaurants, is also close to Syntagma square, which has also become a buzzy nightlife spot over the last few years. Nolan thus both adds a rousing touch to the area and makes for a gratifying gastronomic experience to enjoy on the way to some of the coolest bars in town, either towards Ipittou Square near Plaka or in the opposite direction of Monastiraki.

Greek-Japanese chef Sotiris Kontizas is the brainchild behind an unfussy yet sophisticated list of dishes that Michelin has awarded with the Bib Gourmand. The ambiance is modern, upbeat and vibrant, the flavours are memorable and sometimes very exciting, and the service is fast and professional. Since it opened, I have only heard positive reviews about Nolan, for all the above reasons, which I can confirm from my own experience.

Insights Greece - Greek-Asian Fusion Restaurant that Athenians Can't Get Enough Of

Type of cuisine: Greek-Mediterranean fused with Japanese, Vietnamese, Thai, Korean, Peruvian and Chinese.

Type of eatery: Modern and a la mode in an easy-going way.

The low down…Whether you come here on a date or with a bunch of friends, the buoyant vibes, friendly service, decent prices and noteworthy cuisine almost guarantee a great time.

Décor/ Ambience: Bright and airy during the day, this is a corner restaurant with glass walls and tables along both sides of the street corner, looking out at the city’s architecture and passers by and offering a fun sense of urban chic. Diners are of all ages, although perhaps more on the young side, and it’s favoured by locals as much as foreigners.

Entrees: All the dishes here, served in stone-like ceramic dishes with raised sides, are medium-sized portions and as the waiter told us, designed to be shared. Nonetheless we started with the mouthwatering shrimp and anchovy with chilli and coriander in rice paper served as mini-sandwiches and the steamed bao buns with pulled pork cheeks, served with a pear and carrot dipping sauce.

Mains: Try Nolan’s play on fried chicken (Nolan Fried Chicken) which is perfectly cooked and crunchy nuggets of chicken served with spicy mayonnaise and marinated salad as well as a side of dreamy mashed potatoes with chicken broth. The menu changes according to the seasonal ingredients available throughout the year and there are always two to three dishes of the day. We tried the crispy duck with rice, which was indulgent yet light.

Athens’ Prettiest Cafes

When it comes to good coffee, great desserts and Insta-worthy decor, these are the Athens cafes you need to add to your must-visit list immediately! 

Petite Fleur

Now in four locations around Athens but each of the cafes maintaining the same comfort and style, Petite Fleur is inspired by Parisian nostalgia. With large windows that let in natural light and small tables with coloured chairs, floral tapestry and mosaic floors, the ambiance is old fashioned and romantic. This is the perfect place to drink hot chocolate and share a strawberry tart on a rainy Sunday afternoon.

A: Central Athens locations: Aminta 1 in Pangrati & Omirou 44 in Kolonaki

Dark Side of Chocolate

Sitting here is like stepping into a painting, not one full of colours and shapes but one rich in ambiance. The name itself evokes a sense of drama and mystery, and the artistic vibe of the store itself extends to the sophisticated and tantalizing menu of handmade chocolates made with Valhroma chocolate and other quality ingredients. Havinjg studied patisserie and chocolate-making in Italy and France, the owner treats customers to combinations including chilli, basil, honey and cardamom. You can either sit or buy hot drinks and of course chocolates to go.

A: Solonos 49, Kolonaki

Kimolia Art Café

This intimate café is named after chalk as a nostalgic image of one of our first childhood drawing tools and decorated in a creative, cosy way that comforts the inner child in us. A small space with little pockets and warm, hushed tones is the creation of three artists and sometimes even hosts creative events. During lockdown it was the first and only café in Greece to go online, creating virtual tables for people to meet and connect as they would in a café. One of the owners, Nikos Palavitsinis, says: “However much we change, we remain loyal to our vision for Kimolia, against mass-tourism, mass-hospitality and faceless and colourless venues.”

A: Iperidou 5, Syntagma

Ellyz

Currently the city’s most Instagrammable café, pink and girlie Ellyz is new to the city’s lively café scene. With an entire wall blanketed in large pink flowers, tables decorated with gold candelabra, crystal chandeliers and colourful fantasy cakes and smoothies to match, this is probably the only place in town where you’ll find a doughnut sprinkled in gold dust and butterflies.

A: Aghiou Filippou 11, Monastiraki

Lotte

This café has had a loyal clientele and keeps attracting new visitors since it was created by a Greek actress in Makryianni several years ago. Its stylish and original vintage décor, with pistachio walls and floral curtains, wooden bar and artfully placed objects and artworks, create a soothing atmosphere that makes you want to linger over your hot chocolate. Being a café-bistro it also serves fresh savoury pies, cocktails and mocktails and homemade ginger ale and lemonade.

A: Tzami Karatasou 2, Makryianni

Discovering Athens Without Spending A Cent

Nearly every corner of Greece’s capital is filled with unparalleled history, rich culture and a raw beauty that you can experience first-hand without spending a cent! Here we reveal some of our favourite things to do in Athens that are for free. 

Get that perfect Insta shot of the Acropolis

The Acropolis can be seen from almost anywhere in the heart of the city but if you are on a mission to find the “best view” of the Parthenon that won’t cost you a penny, Areopagus Hill is that spot!  Here you are guaranteed to get one of the best Insta shots of Greece’s most iconic landmark, as well as being able to catch great views of the Ancient Agora and the Temple of Hephaestus.

Climb the centre of the Greek capital

Filopappos Hill as well as the hills adjacent to it, “Pnyx” and “Nymphs” are popular amongst locals and visitors alike who come here for a pleasant stroll as they discover historical monuments and unparalleled views of the city. The walk, which takes around 20 minutes is all on a beautiful and winding path and when you get up top you will discover spectacular views of the city. On a clear day, you can see all the way across to Piraeus and the Saronic islands.

Catch a glimpse of Greece’s famous Evzones

No trip to Athens would be complete without catching a glimpse of the Evzones– Greece’s Presidential Guards. At Syntagma Square, right in front of the Presidential Mansion, you will find the Evzones, traditionally dressed in their distinct uniforms, guarding the Tomb of the Unknown Soldier. Here you will have full view as they march and change guard every hour on the hour.

Insights Greece - Discovering Athens Without Spending A Cent

Discover Underground Metro Museums

Several metro stations in Athens have amazing ‘underground museums’ where you can discover ancient antiquities and learn more about Greek history. Acropolis, Syntagma, Monastiraki, Elaionas, Aigaleo, Dafni and Panepistimio stations have permanent displays of beautiful artifacts that are freely accessible every day from 5 am to midnight.

Insights Greece - Discovering Athens Without Spending A Cent

Lose yourself in an island-like neighbourhood

Anafiotika is a hidden wonder located in the heart of Athens. Here you will be amazed as to how quickly you can be transported from a vibrant city vibe to a calm, laid-back island feel. Surrounded by white-washed Cycladic-style homes and alleyways, this part of town will have you believe you are steps away from the Aegean Sea, but in reality, you are moments away from the Acropolis.

Say a little prayer

The centre of Athens is filled with many historical churches. The “Mētrópolis” is a grand cathedral located halfway between Syntagma Square and Monastiraki and is dedicated to Panagia (Virgin Mary). The nearby Church of Agios Eleftherios is also well worth a visit. Further down towards Monastiraki is the Church of Kapnikaréa, it’s an old Byzantine stone church, now situated right in the middle of Ermou street. Other churches to explore in Athens are Agios Georgios Church at the top of Lycabettus Hill, the Church of Metamorphosis Sotiros in Anafiotika, and the Church of Agios Nikolaos Ragavas in Plaka.

Greek Fashion Brand Making a Lifestyle Statement

When it comes to cool and casual fashion brands in Greece it’s hard to go past PARA TODOS. The brainchild of Tassos Tsadaris, PARA TODOS debuted in 2017 and has been killing it ever since.

This unisex street fashion label takes a diverse and cool approach to design, never getting stuck in one place for too long. Between its easily accessible website and range of retail locations in Greece, the popular clothing brand is always within reach.

We recently spoke to Tassos about his stylish designs that make a lifestyle statement in fashion form.

Tell us a bit about your background and training in the fashion industry?

I studied fashion design in London from 2007 till 2011. After graduating I went back to Greece and started my first brand Saint’s Menswear in June of 2013 and have continued working in the fashion industry on my own projects.

When did you launch PARA TODOS and what is the concept behind it? Insights Greece - Greek Fashion Brand Making a Lifestyle Statement

I launched PARA TODOS Clothing Co. back in September 2017, and the concept is casual/street design with big attention to simplicity, understated elegance and an emphasis on eclectic use of materials and quality fabrics.

What inspires your creations?

Generally by historical Japanese styles.

How would you describe your brand?

Elegant, simple and easy to wear on every occasion.

Are the materials locally sourced and where are they made?

Yes, they are locally sourced in general, some are made in Turkey and some in Italy.

Insights Greece - Greek Fashion Brand Making a Lifestyle StatementWho are the pieces created for?

“PARA TODOS” means “for all” so we create for everyone! But unfortunately in Greece, we have a small target group because there aren’t many people who are willing to try new styles but we aren’t giving up and we continue following our dream. Generally, we work with artists, stylists and people from the fashion industry.

Tell us about your latest collection?

F/W21’ is once more Japanese inspired, oversized and unisex-with many layers.

What is your favourite item in your range at the moment? 

I have more than one, but I can’t show you right now, you will be able to see them when the F/W21’ collection will be launched.

What are the current projects you are working on and is there anything exciting coming up you would like to share?

Right now I am working on the PARA TODOS F/W21’ which in my opinion will be my best project so far! And after this, I will work on a re-branding project that you will see in spring.

Where is your brand stocked? 

In Athens, Thessaloniki, Mykonos, Larisa and online and we are still searching for retailers all over the world.

Do you ship internationally?

Of course!

Tell us your favourite holiday destination in Greece and why?

There are two places that I love in Greece the first one is Mykonos, where I have been going to with my grandparents every Easter and summer, so I have seen the island in many phases and I have so many memories in Mykonos, I really Insights Greece - Greek Fashion Brand Making a Lifestyle Statementlove the island. The second one is Mount Pelion, as it combines the mountains and the sea it is so beautiful, magical and natural.

How would you describe the Greek fashion scene in 2020?

Hmmm, in the most recent years I see a lot of steps forward from people within the industry that is making me really happy. I see more and more people that are getting out of their comfort zone and trying new styles and this is very promising.

How would you describe your own style?

Simple and plain. On my workdays, I am either wearing my black or white t-shirt, and footwear my black or white sneakers- usually vans! I like to change it up when I have an event, where I will always wear the shiniest and most colourful piece in my current collection.

Check out Para Todos here. 

Own property in Greece? What to do and what not to do  

Οwning property in Greece brings with it some exciting prospects but what exactly do you do with it? 

Greek laws are complex, the market is constantly changing and finding the right people to work with is a key challenge in an economy that lacks the stability seen in many other parts of the world.

The action plan depends on the type of asset owned, whether it is an apartment or a block of land. Those who have in their possession a stand-alone home or an apartment may have less to do but face many factors when making a decision.

With the arrival of Covid-19, the trend in the market right now is clear.

Home owners in Greece have been removing their apartments from short term rental platforms at a fast pace and putting them up for regular long-term rents. The number of visitors looking for a place to stay in the country for a few nights has dried up amidst the pandemic and not expected to see any strong growth any time soon.

The increase in supply has driven rents lower in some areas though prices are generally holding ground. Data from home classifieds site Spitogatos.gr shows that the price of renting in central Athens in the second quarter of the year eased 0.64 percent from the first three months of the year, to 9.38 euros per square meter. Having a place in southern Athens, in areas like Glyfada and Voula, may fetch you 10.37 euros (sqm), while in the northern suburbs the monthly rate is 8.46 euros (sqm), according to the site.

Those in possession of a block of land, have more work to do.

Architect Katerina Sirouni tells IN+SIGHTS GREECE that to get the ball rolling, the first step is the due diligence process.

“In the event of inheritance, I would recommend them to consult with a notary public to guide them on the steps needed to be taken as well as inform them on any possible hidden surprises,” she says.

“After dealing with the ‘not so fun’ challenging process of ensuring ownership rights, the next step is to answer the question of what to do with the land. Factors such as up-keeping expenses need to be considered if keeping the property but it’s important any decisions should not be based on emotional connections,” she said.

Whether a land owner wants to build their own Graceland in Greece or looking for something smaller, there will be large demands on their time and budget. Some estimates place the cost of constructing a home at about 1,200-1,300 euros (sqm).

“It’s important to connect with your architect and discuss all the possible challenges and contingencies involved from making design choices to maintaining a realistic budget. From ideas to completion, there are three main phases to follow. Based on the zoning restrictions of what can be built and the factors of the plot such as size, shape and orientation, we work on a concept design which leads to the final design layout,” says Sirouni.

“The next phase involves issuing the building permit with a team of other engineers needed to implement the project, structural and mechanical. The final issuing may vary, depending on specific approvals that may be required. Once the permit is issued, we’re all set to go,” she adds.

Image via Hidden Greece

Your Ultimate Foodie Guide to Kolonaki: Dinner

Sure, you’ve got a lot to see, do and buy as you casually stroll the elegant streets of Kolonaki, but to experience the true magic of this famed Athenian neighbourhood you need to check out the cool cafes, trendy bars and classy restaurants.

So, to make your life easier, we’ve come up with the ultimate guide to eating and drinking your way around this ultra-chic district. We suggest you do yourself a favour and just bookmark this list.

Part Three | Dinner 

Nikkei

Nikkei is a unique resto-bar, where talented chefs create innovative Peruvian flavoured dishes using Japanese techniques. The bright decor and rich aromas bring you one step closer to Peru! 

A: Ksanthipou 10 & Square Deksamenis, Kolonaki 

Malconi’s

For a gourmet Italian gastropub experience make your way to Malconi’s, which attracts a cool after-work crowd. Offering fine Italian dishes and desserts, we suggest you also try one of their impressive signature cocktails.

A: Patriarchou 43 & Ploutarcho 23, Kolonaki 

Spiros & Vasilis 

If you are looking for a piece of France in the heart of Athens, Spiros & Vasilis is a historic restaurant serving traditional French cuisine. The Province inspired menu includes all the classics, and its luxurious indoor and outdoor spaces are reminiscent of a chateau.

A: Lachitos 5, Kolonaki 

SIMUL

SIMUL is a modern Greek bistro serving ‘seasonal ingredients only’ dishes. The fresh and organic-based menu includes the head chef’s creations of the day, so make sure to ask what specials are being whipped up in the kitchen! 

A: Ipsilantou 63, Kolonaki 

Drakoulis

Meat lovers rejoice. Drakoulis offers an enticing selection of hand-picked premium meat cuts served raw, or cooked to perfection, plus exotic salads and unique desserts. The ultra-sleek set up gives off a very New York vibe.

A: Skoufa 52, Kolonaki 

Alo 

For a cosy and upscale experience head to Alo restaurant where the food is flavoursome and filling. Using prime quality and locally sourced ingredients, this place is renowned for its fresh seafood, Greek labelled wines and creative cocktails.

A: Griveon 1, Kolonaki 

Insights Greece - Your Ultimate Foodie Guide to Kolonaki: Dinner

Papadakis

For a fine dining experience, Papadakis serves dishes created by famous Greek chef Argiro Barbarigou. Not only do you get to taste some of Argiro’s best recipes- but you are also in for a spectacular view.

A: Fokilidou 15, Kolonaki 

To discover the best places in Kolonaki for Brunch, Lunch, DrinksCafes & Patisseries check out our guides here. 

Exotic Immunity Boost Mocktail Recipe from Hilton Galaxy Bar

More than ever before, we are all in need of a bit of a kick, and the Hilton Galaxy Bar in Athens has created a lush ‘Exotic Immunity Boost’ mocktail, designed exclusively for IN+SIGHTS GREECE readers to enjoy! 

INGREDIENTSInsights Greece - Exotic Immunity Boost Mocktail Recipe from Hilton Galaxy Bar

40ml ginger honey mix*

20ml Soumada from Chios or Orgeat syrup

60ml fresh pineapple juice

Top up with soda water

2 pinches of ground cinnamon

METHOD

Stir and shake all ingredients together. Garnish with cinnamon stick and pineapple leaves.

*For the ginger honey mix you will need:

80gr fresh ginger, grated and strained through a sieve

60ml honey

100ml fresh lemon juice

Mix all ingredients well.

Hilton Athens

A: 46 Vassilissis Sofias Ave, Athens

Your Ultimate Foodie Guide to Kolonaki: Part 2

Sure, you’ve got a lot to see, do and buy as you casually stroll the elegant streets of Kolonaki, but to experience the real magic of this famed Athenian neighbourhood you need to check out the cool cafes, trendy bars and classy restaurants.

So, to make your life easier, we’ve come up with the ultimate guide to eating and drinking your way around this ultra-chic district. Now we suggest you do yourself a favour and just bookmark this list.

Part Two | Lunch

Frankie’s

Frankie’s is a casual Italian Bistro & Bar serving farm to table dishes such as fresh handmade pasta and authentic Sicilian inspired food.

A: Skoufa 42, Kolonaki

Giacomo

For an elegant ambiance, Giacomo is another Italian eatery where you can order antipasti, pasta, pizza, risotto, salads, as well as seafood and meat dishes.

A: Xenokratous 21, Kolonaki 

If you are after a modern Italian joint, Brunello’s prides itself on food art, creativity and above all, taste. The dishes are delightful, and the wine list is impressive too.

A: Loukianou 21b, Kolonaki 

Kiouzin

Kiouzin is a Greek restaurant with lots of surprising twists. The vintage décor creates a charming vibe and the talented chef here specialises in modern and experimental Greek dishes.

A: Likavittou 16, Kolonaki 

For authentic Greek flavours and a charming old-world vibe head to Mpirmpilo which is known for its mouthwatering traditional dishes such as Arakas (peas & potato stew) Gemista (stuffed vegetables) and Soutzoukakia (meatballs in a homemade red sauce).

A: Ploutarchou 26, Kolonaki 

If seafood is your preference Barbounaki is a casual but sophisticated spot where you can savour fresh fish, grilled octopus, marinated anchovies, sea urchin, mussels and prawns.

A: Charitos 39B, Kolonaki 

More Insights