Greece travel guide Archives

24 Hours in Kalamata

Whether you’re staying in Kalamata for a mini break by the sea or stopping by on your way to picturesque destinations like Kardamyli, Mani or Pylos, don’t miss these spots to swim, eat and play.

Grab your morning coffee at: Flirt

Located in the heart of Kalamata town, Flirt (Φλέρτ!) is anything but traditional. Serving up quality coffee by Athenian roasters Area 51 as well as cold-press juices and milkshakes, there are also brunch favourites like poached eggs, bagels and Flirt’s homemade pies of the day. While Flirt is a great place to kick-start your engine for a day of adventure, once you get a peek at its sleek Art Deco surrounds, you’ll also be tempted to head back in the evening for a negroni or two.

Take a relaxing dip at: Ego All Day Beach Bar

Since opening in 2020, Ego presents a decidedly modern and comfortable setting in the midst of the endless stretch of beach bars on the Main Street of Navarinou. Cushioned sun beds and attentive service staff make for a relaxed start to the day (insider tip: the early bird gets the sun bed) and the bar menu has a great selection of food options like tacos, salads, burgers and more.

Continue your fun in the afternoon sun at: Verga beach

A short drive from Kalamata’s main beach, Verga beach is a great spot for an afternoon dip and beachside cocktail. Bustling beach bars like GinGer, Abat Jour and Almyra sit side by side in the heart of Verga beach and will draw you in with their sun beds, beats and relaxed smiles of fellow sun worshippers.

Take in a magical sunset at: Kitries

Drive further south from Verga beach to the small town of Kitries, where the landscape is decidedly green and lush on one side and enveloped by the sea on the other. Gaitanaro’s and Mimi’s are stalwarts of the beach, known for their Kritharoto Thalassino (orzo with seafood), whereas next-door neighbour Kitro is a great option for lovely mezedes including a standout tirokafteri that’s whipped to perfection with a hit of hot red peppers. Wherever you choose to stop, you’ll be treated to an exceptional sunset view.

Drink your cocktails at: Le Jardin

As the name suggests, this tiki bar is set in a pretty garden with lush leafy surrounds and accents of marble and earthy colours. Cocktails like the Fresh Melon with gin, mint, melon and lemon or classics like the Zombie or Mai Tai will get your night started in the best way possible.

Boogie with a view at: Arossa

Once you’ve made the drive from Kalamata town over to upper Verga, and walk through the entrance at Arossa, you’ll be glad you did. This impressive open-air club is perched up high, with a sweeping view of Kalamata down below. At Arossa, the DJs seem determined to bring smiles to the many revellers, and the bar staff serve up quality cocktails with impressive speed. This is where you’ll dance the night away until the early hours of the morning.

End the night right at: Souvlakia o Tzimis

No trip to Kalamata is complete without a stop at this classic, located in the heart of Kalamata town. Tzimis opens at around 1pm and in the words of the staff there “we don’t have a close time, we’re here until the last person awake needs a souvlaki”. Tucking into a pillowy pita packed with meat and a generous serve of patates tiganites just might be the perfect way to end your day in Kalamata.

Main image by Ego All Day Bar

Traditional Kafeneia of the Cyclades

Whitewashed walls, Greek coffee poured from a copper briki, the sound of dice rolling across a tavli board, spontaneous live music, and handmade mezedes (at affordable prices). These are the traditional kafeneia of the Cyclades; picturesque gems where you will find friendly locals- offering a glimpse into their relaxed, everyday island life.

O Megalos Kafenes – Tinos

“Megalos Kafenes” has been operating for over a century in the only square of Pyrgos (with the famous ancient plane tree) in Tinos. A hangout that combines the old with the new, thanks to the creative flair of architectural designer Dimitra Papadopoulou, who supervised its renovation. Enjoy the tranquility of the village and savor homemade sweets like galaktoboureko, orange pie with ice cream, and ekmek with a Greek coffee in the briki or salty mezedes with ouzo.

A: Panormos/ tel. 2283 031647

Insights Greece - Traditional Kafeneia of the Cyclades

Stou Stratou – Serifos

In the heart of Serifos’ Chora, against the backdrop of the imposing City Hall and the church of Agios Athanasios, is the traditional café Stou Stratou, with its blue tables and chairs welcome visitors for a morning coffee on embers and a tasty omelette. In the afternoon you can taste homemade sweets (try their famous chocolate cake) and appetizers accompanied by ouzo or rakomelo from noon onwards. Spend a few minutes (or even hours) viewing the menu since that also features art and poetry (literally).

A: Chora Serifos /tel. 2281 052566

To Kafeneio Tou Drakaki – Sifnos

With more than 100 years of life, Drakakis’ kafeneio, in Apollonia, offers the ambiance of a Greece that is reminiscent of black and white movies. With tables spread across the paved central alley, you can enjoy a rakomelo with delicious traditional appetizers of Sifnos. Espresso coffee or filter coffee are unknown words here!

A: Apollonia/ tel. 6972123571

To Kafeneio Tis Charas – Schoinousa

In the picturesque Chora, one of the oldest buildings hosts To Kafeneio Tis Charas. Famous for its rich breakfast made with local products from small producers- here you will taste fresh eggs and handmade sweets. In the evenings the rakomezes take centre stage, as you take part in the improvised celebrations featuring violins and lutes.

A: Chora Schoinousa/ tel. 2285072026

Photodotis – Amorgos

Away from the hustle and bustle of Chora, in an upper neighborhood, you can relax at Photodotis. This traditional kafeneio features white and shades of green, plus a courtyard with wooden and iron tables, where you can enjoy local products such as Amorgian xynomyzithra, pumpkin meatballs, and dolmades with fresh vine leaves; handmade sausage or hunkiar begeti with local veal- dishes that are all prepared with a lot of love! Often violin nights are also held here.

A: Chora Amorgos/ tel. 2285072059

Kali Kardia (Bohoris) – Kimolos

Kali Kardia or the café of Bochoris -as the locals call it- is a traditional trademark found on the main road of Kimolos’ Chora. Operating as kafeneio, tavern, and convenience store- here you’ll find classic black and white tiles on the floor, wooden chairs around marble tables, and a jukebox. You can try the same traditional recipes that have been used since 1920, featuring pure, fresh, and local ingredients only. Ouzo and tsipouro appetizers, plus some signature mom-cooked dishes are also on the menu. Tip: if you are after something sweet, order the orange pie or kataifi.

A: Chora Kimolos/ tel. 2287051495

Kafeneio Nios – Ios

In the picturesque square of Chora of Ios, under some pretty bougainvillea, lays Kafeneio Nios. Enjoy your coffee in the morning, varieties of cheese and cold cuts during the day, and (every day) live music (bouzouki, tomberleki, and baglama) will accompany your rakomela at night.

A: Chora Ios/ tel. 2286092164

Cyclades Cycladic Island Cycladic Islands Greece travel Greece travel guide Greek cafes Greek coffee shops Greek islands Kafeneio

Miniguide to Parga

Picturesque Parga, lying northwest of Preveza in Epirus, is an ideal place to visit during a late spring or summertime exploration of the entire beautiful region, or as a sole destination. In this new miniguide, you’ll find all the best places to stay at, eat, swim and shop.

Richly verdant, with emerald waters and colourful mansions, amphitheatrically built Parga also offers close access to Paxos and Antipaxos islands in the Ionian, known for their gorgeous crystalline turquoise waters and scenic villages.

In Parga, you’re likely to feel a carefree island vibe and enjoy admiring lovely Venetian architecture – including an archaic castle at its top. There are plenty of things to see, do and taste to keep you busy, whether you’re going for two days or two weeks.

Swim

Most popular – and busy of Parga’s beaches is the long, sandy Kryoneri coastline, with Piso (back) Kryoneri at its end and Valtos beach interconnecting on the other end.

From Kryoneri beach you can rent a pedalo (or swim) to reach the Panagia islet, where two churches stand and with surrounding rocks perfect for snorkelling around.

Ai Yiannaki and Lichno on the south side are also great places to swim.

On the path to Syvota, you’ll find the beaches of Sarakiniko, Karavostasi and Arilla.

Valtos is popular for watersports enthusiasts.

Walk

Along the Promenade

A perfect seafront walkway for sunset strolls where you can stop for an ouzo and meze by the water.

Visit the Olive Oil Factory

Learn all about local olive oil production and how it has helped shape the culture and culinary profile of Parga and book an olive oil tasting session. (Paragaea, K. Tzavella 19, Parga +30 2684 032889)

The Venetian Castle

The 13th Century castle has sturdily remained in place despite being knocked down by both Ottoman occupiers and pirates before being rebuilt by the Venetians in 1572. Head up to see spellbinding 360-degree views.

Journey to the Underworld

Visit the springs of the Acheron River, in a beautiful natural landscape near Glyki village. According to Greek mythology, the river was one of the five rivers of the underworld. On the banks of Acheron is the Nekromanteion, where the dead were said to begin their descent to the underworld accompanied by a blind ferryman.

Stay

Villa Rossa Area Boutique Beach Resort

The historic red villa is a Parga landmark and the only building standing on Parga’s main beach. It offers a private beach area and uninterrupted sea views. Having starred in several international films, the hotel blends old-world charm with innovative design in addition to hosting an Interactive Museum, a Gallery and a Gift Shop. It also boasts a direct sunset location, ideal for sundowners! (Agiou Athanasiou 4, +26840 31237)

Alfa Hotel

This recently renovated hotel is a good option for those who want to be within close walking distance to two beautiful beaches and a hotel pool. There is also a good restaurant with al fresco dining (Agiou Athanasiou 51, +26840 32111)

Lichnos Beach

For those preferring to be a little further from town, Lichnos Beach is a large luxury hotel with spacious rooms and good family options. (Lichnos beach, +2684031257)

Eat

Villa Rossa Restaurant is an award-winning farm-to-table Greek and Mediterranean restaurant with top-quality locally sourced options. It offers exceptional quality fish and seafood and is famed for its oysters. Other signature dishes include gambares, delicacy shrimp from nearby Preveza, and beef fillet with fresh Greek truffles. (Agiou Athanasiou 4, +26840 31532)

Aegis Dine & Drink offers good, creative Mediterranean dishes and is ideal for people watching on the main promenade overlooking the sea ( Grigoriou Lampraki 17, + 693 724 1479)

Tourkopazaro is Greek for Turkish Bazaar. This is a picturesque area near the Venetian Castle full of popular tavernas that seem to blend into one, and all serve good quality Greek traditional fare.

Drink

Pargas Distillery, Amicos Food and Bar is an old distillery where traditional liqueurs are still served along with creative cocktails and small bites in a pleasant setting ( Patatoukou 26, + 694 700 9151)

Sail In Cocktail Bar– is in a beautiful building on the steps leading to the castle. It offers great views and signature cocktails (G. Gaki 1, +2684032097)

Atrium– Perched on a hill overlooking Pisso Kryoneri beach this is a great place to unwind during the day and have a cold beer in the early evening. Options are limited but the trek is well worth the view (Agiou Athanassiou 28, +26840 31600)

The Venetian Castle also has a café/bar. It is a spectacular location to be enjoyed at all times of the day.

Shop

Kendra is a treasure trove of interesting kaftans, beach dresses, and jewellery for affordable prices on the promenade.

Mandalaki– easy-to-wear summer clothing by mostly Greek brands, includes interesting sandals, purses and jewellery. (Frouriou 13, +2684 031630)

Papaya– good, curated, designer options (Riga Feraiou 50, + 6947054086)

There are many souvenir shops on the promenade and Parga’s quaint alleyways, all worth exploring.

Festival time!

On August 14th, visit the Panigyri on the Panagia islet. The next day join the festivities of Dekapendavgoustos at Varkarola, a festival commemorating the homecoming of Parga’s locals after they had been made to leave their home by the English, who sold Parga to Ali Pasha of Ioannina.

Epirus Greece Greece travel Greece travel guide Greecemainland Greek holiday miniguide Parga Preveza Prga spring Greece summer Greece

Exploring the Old Town of Xanthi

When you think of the city of Xanthi, two aspects vividly come to mind, the excessive carnival celebrations and the Old Town. The best way I can describe the latter is encapsulated in one word: nostalgia!

The Old Town of Xanthi is an enchanting settlement in the heart of the city that has remained unaffected by time. It is a magnet for visitors, especially on a warm day, filled with colours and aromas. A concoction of picturesque cobbled streets, buildings with evident features of the Ottoman empire once ruling the city, rows of 19th-century houses with dilapidated balconies and throngs of tourists photographing every corner of it. A mixture of Edinburgh’s Circus Lane and Malta’s Mdina, if you like.

We embarked on a tour of the Old Town of Xanthi early on Sunday morning in an attempt to avoid the crowds. Our tour started on El. Venizelou 17 at Grand Maison, the beautiful house where the famous music composer, Manos Hadjidakis, was born and raised.

Built in 1895 by an Austrian architect, this neoclassical mansion with baroque elements belonged to Isaac Daniel, a rich Jew living in Xanthi, and not the Hadjidakis family as most people think.

The building was recently restored under the guidance of Hadjidaki’s relatives to honour his life and work in the best possible way. Nowadays, it serves as a museum and cultural centre open to the public.

Insights Greece - Exploring the Old Town of Xanthi — Grand Maison, once home of music composer, Manos Hadjidakis

It is said that the Holy Church of St. Vlassios facing Grand Maison has been the inspiration behind the artist’s composition of music mixing Byzantine and ancient Greek elements. The basilica was built in 1838 and in the courtyard lies a school and the priest’s residence. The inward-looking style of the three buildings is a common feature in Ottoman structures found in Turkey and Greece. The church courtyard is elevated three meters from the road level so that people can catch sight of it as houses on El. Venizelou were hiding the building.

The tour continued uphill on Agiou Vlassiou street with the mansion of Dr. Constantine Karabetsis on the corner. Built in 1896 by European architects in neoclassical style with a typically enclosed balcony (sachnisi) in the centre the mansion stands out for its aesthetic and character. The painting on the ceiling of the entrance hall was done by the Maltzi brothers, some famous artists from Aivali in Asia Minor (today Ayvalik, Turkey). Unfortunately, like many other buildings in Xanthi’s Old Town, the building is in deer need of restoration but visitors can still see signs of its former glorious life.

We kept walking on Agiou Vlassiou street and went past many neoclassical mansions until we met the magnificent Residences of the Michaloglou family, a complex of four dwellings built in 1890, built by the Northern Epirus tobacco merchant, Ioannis Michaloglou, for his children.

A bit further away on Botsari street lies Muzaffer Bey’s mansion (konah). The building features both Thracian and Ottoman elements making it one of the most remarkable examples of local architecture. It was built during the 1860s with three floors and two wings in the form of the Greek letter Π. Today the building belongs to the Municipality of Xanthi and it is under construction. Back to El. Venizelou street, we found a beautiful house and store built in 1880 by a group of craftsmen from Epirus. The presence of the blue arched windows is something often seen in commercial buildings of the early 20th-century in Xanthi.

Suddenly, we felt famished so we headed towards Antika square for some coffee and nibbles. This scenic square is a meeting point for many locals as it is surrounded by many well-known bars, traditional tavernas and bars. We sat at Favela Chic Art Bar and enjoyed the views of the little square and the crowds of people passing in search of a place to sit and enjoy the day. On the other side of the square is a round symmetrical building that now hosts one of the most famous cafe bars ‘Bread and Chocolate‘. This impressive building was once the harem of the Ottoman ruler Mehmet Pasha!

It was getting dark when we left so with no more time to explore under the daylight, we went for a quick wander around the square shops.

There is so much to do and see in the Old Town of Xanthi, we promised to be back very soon. Hopefully, this will be the time that we will get the full tour of the Old Town as there are still so many more mansions and historic buildings to discover.

Until next time!

Images by Anastasia Fountouli ©

Europe travel Greece Greece mainland Greece travel Greece travel guide Greece vacation Greek holiday Macedonia Old Town Xanthi Thrace Xanthi

Travel Rules to Greece Ease Off as of Today

As the Easter holidays approach, Greece has announced that as of today, March 15, international visitors will no longer be required to fill out a Passenger Locator Form (PLF).

“As of Tuesday, passengers arriving in the country from any destination overseas do not need to fill in the online PLF form before arriving in Greece,” stated the Hellenic Civil Aviation Authority on Monday.

Those who hold a valid European Union digital COVID-19 certificate do not need to present proof of a negative pre-arrival COVID-19 test. This includes travellers from the EU and Schengen zone; as well as 33 other non-EU destinations that have joined the EU digital COVID Certificate system.

The 33 additional non-EU destinations include Albania, Andorra, Armenia, Cabo Verde, El Salvador, Faroe Islands, Georgia, Israel, Iceland, Lebanon, Liechtenstein, Moldova, Monaco, Montenegro, Morocco, New Zealand, North Macedonia, Norway, Panama, San Marino, Serbia, Singapore, Switzerland, Taiwan, Tunisia, Togo, Turkey, Ukraine, United Arab Emirates, United Kingdom, Uruguay, and the Vatican.

Travellers from the United States, Australia, and Canada can also enter Greece by showing one of the following: proof of vaccination, proof of recovery certificate ( that passenger has had the virus in the last 180 days), or a negative COVID-19 PCR test administered 72 before departure or a negative antigen test administered no more than 24 hours prior to departure.

Visitors from all other countries still need to present proof of a negative COVID-19 PCR test administered 72 before departure or a negative antigen test administered no more than 24 hours prior to departure.

Other Entry Rules into Greece

Random rapid testing on arrival

All international visitors to Greece, regardless of vaccination status, may be subject to a random COVID-19 rapid test at the airport.

If a passenger is selected for a rapid test and is positive for the coronavirus, they must quarantine for five days at home or in a temporary facility as indicated by Greek authorities.

Wearing Masks at Airports

At the arrival and departure areas inside airports, as well as during all domestic and international flights, staff and passengers are required to wear a face mask at all times.

Passengers are also required to comply with instructions of airport and airline staff responsible for supervising, crowd management and passenger assistance, in order to maintain the necessary distances and to ensure safe boarding/disembarkation to avoid overcrowding.

For all the latest travel requirements to Greece head to travel.gov.gr

Greece Greece Easter holidays Greece travel Greece travel guide Greece travel rules Greece vacation Greek holiday Greek travel news

Chania’s Stunning New Gourmet Store

Located on the historic waterfront of Chania’s Old Town, this new food store, which won ‘Best Interior Décor Shop’ at the Design Awards 2021, is part of the famous Pallas Restaurant (right next door), and features a beautiful bakery, delicatessen, and wine cellar all under the one roof!

Pallas Philocaly is set in a striking neoclassical 1900’s building that recently received an award-winning renovation by leading Cretan designers Dimiourgiki. The new complex features modern décor, which blends in beautifully with the traditional architecture of Chania’s charming Old Town.

Insights Greece - Chania’s Stunning New Gourmet Store

Boasting modern leather chairs, oakwood tables, and contemporary open display cabinets, there is also a range of fine metals and glamorous marble featured throughout the large open space- giving it a sleek, stylish, and classy feel.

The shop is divided into sections for visitors to easily browse through each area, which includes a grand marble display that’s always loaded with delicious creations both savoury and sweet. The bakery specialises in croissants, pastries, pralines, eclairs, and tarts that are handmade daily.

Step over to the wine tasting area with a cellar that includes over 400 local and international wine labels. The experienced sommelier shortlists a rotating selection of bottles and serves guests by the glass.

Pair your wine tasting with a delightful platter that features products from the dairy and cold cuts section- including a range of Cretan cheeses like Kefalotiri, Mizithra, Anthotyra, Staka, and local cold meats such as Pastrami, Vinegar Sausages, and Smoke-Cured pork cuts.

The pantry corner offers carefully selected artisanal products from local and international producers and here you will find honey, olive oil, and rusks from local Cretan producers; as well as handmade chocolates, pasta, jams, and other local and international products.

Opposite the pantry corner is an open grill counter where the chef prepares premium cuts and fish- just the way you like it- and you can eat indoors at the dining space or the bar area- otherwise there are also a few tables outside. On the menu, you will also find a range of sandwiches, salads, and other enticing light dishes.

A: Akti Tompazi 14, Chania

Opening Hours: Monday to Sunday – 8 am to 1 am

Images courtesy of Dimiourgiki and Pallas Philocoly

Chania Chania food Chania travel guide Crete Greece Greece travel Greece travel guide Pallas Chania Pallas Philocaly Pallas Restaurant

Greece to Open All Year Round for Tourists

After being named Europe’s top destination for 2021 at the World Travel Awards, Greece has announced it will not only focus on the peak summer season but will also be ready and willing to welcome international visitors all year round.

Greek Tourism Minister Vassilis Kikilias made the announcement in a recent interview with CNN, during his time at the international tourism trade fair at the World Travel Market (WTM), in London.

According to the Minister, Greece’s tourism board is working hard to “win over” every traveller, offering a new tourist experience, and at the same time promoting new destinations including more untouched islands, both small and large, the mainland, and city breaks.

Insights Greece - Greece to Open All Year Round for Tourists — Greece proves it’s more than just a summer destination

Minister Kikilias said, “Tourism is the locomotive of the Greek economy, something that proves again this year, in the midst of a pandemic, and brings new jobs that we aspire to be of better quality and better paid, enable through the 320 million euros of the RRF of the Ministry of Tourism for infrastructure, ports, marinas, upgrading of hotel units, for digitization, green development, and a sustainable system of the sustainable tourism product.”

The Minister stressed there is more to Greece than just a few popular islands. “It doesn’t always have to be to the two or three branded places that people discovered in the 50s and the 60s,” he said, adding that Greece has many beautiful destinations that he believes will appeal to tourists from the UK, the US, France and beyond.

Concerning infrastructure in specific popular destinations including Santorini, Mykonos, and Rhodes to name a few, Kikilias said that Greece has 320 million euros from the Recovery and Resiliance Fund (RRF) to improve its infrastructure and build new infrastructure where it’s needed.

During his time at WTM London Minister Kikilas also met with a range of international tour operators, travel agents, and airline companies from Great Britain, the USA, and France and signed a number of new deals for 2022.

And although the country will be open to tourists all year round, the official tourist season in Greece will commence in early spring (March-April). And with high volumes of bookings already taking place, 2022 is expected to be a very successful year for Greece’s tourism industry.

all year round destination Greece city breaks Greece mainland Greece tourism Greece travel guide Greece travel news Greek holiday Greek islands Greek tourism Greek travel

Glyfada’s Stylish New Bistro Bar

Brunch by day, elegant bar by night, Nuera Athens stays up late mixing artisan cocktails in the glamorous seaside neighbourhood of Glyfada.

This sophisticated new place has a cool atmosphere and friendly staff to match. The idea behind the modern bistro was to create a relaxed yet polished atmosphere using vintage chic décor.

Architect and interior designer Zisis Papamichos has filled the open space with colourful patterned tiles that are mixed between wooden floorboards. The room also boasts a range of mirrors, alluring chandeliers, plush lounges, and soft velvet chairs; as well as green splashback tiles (featured on an arch behind the bar) and lush plants that create warmth.

Insights Greece - Glyfada’s Stylish New Bistro Bar

Brunch or lunch here pairs perfectly with a morning or afternoon shopping spree along Metaxa Street, which is lined with boutique after boutique.

Morning options include Eggs Benedict with smoked salmon; Avocado Toast with grilled bread, avocado, cherry tomatoes, home pickles, and flax seeds; or a healthy Breakfast Bowl of yogurt, oat, bio honey, walnuts, almonds, bio tahini, chia, fresh fruits, and bitter chocolate.

Choose from a selection of salads such as Mesclun Salad of grilled goat cheese, Parma’s ham, apple, pear, walnuts and raspberry vinegarette; or the Buffalo Burrata. Mains include Creamy Black Tagliatelle with salmon, pepperoncino, parmesan and rocket pesto; Beef Fillet Medallions with potato foam, mushrooms, asparagus and marsala wine, as well as Seabass with celery cream vegetables and sauce with citrus-zest olive oil.

The talented team in the kitchen have also created a delightful dessert menu with the standouts being the Lemon Crème Brulée of biscuits, meringues, red fruits, and lemon ice cream; and who can resist a good Pavlova made with fresh meringues, mascarpone cheese, strawberries, pistachios and raspberry ice cream?!

Given the cocktails are designed by The Clumsies award-winning mixologist Nikos Bakoulis, it comes as no surprise that Nuera’s drinks list is a main feature. Skilled bartenders mix cocktails that complement the Mediterranean flavours on the menu. We recommend you try the Olive Negroni made of Tanqueray Ten London dry gin, black olive, vermouth and cocoa bitter; or the Chios Sour with Skinos Mastiha, Elderflower, Basil and Salted Honey.

The bistro’s prime location means it fills up fast with locals from the southern suburbs, other Athenians who come here to shop, as well as international visitors- creating a pleasantly varied ambience.

Address: Kiprou 57, Glyfada

Opening Hours: 9 am to 2 am (Monday to Sunday)

Photos by George Fakaros and Nuera

Athens bars Athens drinks guide Athens food guide Athens guides Athens holiday Athens Riviera bars Glyfada Greece travel Greece travel guide Greece travel magazine Nuera Nuera Athens

Take a Seat at Athens’ Prettiest Cafe

Currently the city’s most Instagrammable café, pink and girlie Ellyz is fairly 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!

Insights Greece - Take a Seat at Athens’ Prettiest Cafe

In addition, there is a chic neon sign that writes “Happiness is coffee and flowers’’ – with this pretty little cafe quickly becoming the Greek capital’s most popular spot amongst locals and international visitors- who come to capture the perfect background for their Instagram feed.

Featuring velvet sofas and chairs in soft shades of pink and blue- the glamorous onyx bar with plush high stools is a dreamy set up- and crowds of people can be seen outside patiently waiting their turn to take a seat. Take note: try to get there early!

Pink is not only the main theme for the cafe’s decor but it’s also a stand out on the menu- with a range of “pink” foods and drinks to choose from, including a Coffee Espresso with Pink Donut, a Pink Flat, freshly made Pink Grapefruit juice, Pink Velvet cake, Pink donuts and Pink inspired pancakes.

Ideally located in the heart of Athens city centre, Ellyz café is a fairytale spot for brunch, lunch, or an afternoon drink with friends.

And yes there is also a range of (non-pink) breakfast and lunch options to choose from, including truffled scrambled eggs, fresh sandwiches, healthy salads and protein bowls.

And for those who are only after a drink, there are is a wide range of cocktails, wines and Aperitivo’s to choose from!

A: Aghiou Filippou 11, Monastiraki

Athens Athens cafe Athens drinks Athens eat Athens guide Athens holiday Greece Greece travel Greece travel guide Greek holiday

16 Coolest Bars in Psyrri Neighbourhood

The culturally rich, historic, vibrant and cool Athenian neighbourhood of Psyrri is packed with precious antiques, talented local artisans, authentic Greek tavernas, boho bars, charming cafes and loads of visitors who come here time and time again to enjoy a spot where the modern world blends in beautifully with old-time charm.

With so many amazing bars to choose from, we’ve rounded up our favourite spots to grab a drink in Psyrri, for your next visit to the Greek capital!

Zampano

With a Parisian-bistro feel, this spot is ideal for champagne brunches, long lunches and dinner/ drinks with friends.

A: Sarri 18, Athens

Insights Greece - 16 Coolest Bars in Psyrri Neighbourhood

Barrett Bar

For a casual and sleek bar that offers a cool vibe all day long, make your way to Barrett.

A: 11 Protogenous Street, Psyrri

The Hatters Athens

A chic and cozy little joint that’s loved by locals; perfect choice for a catch-up with friends.

A: Lepeniotou 11, Athens

Buena Vista Social Bar

For a great range of cocktails and bar food, head to Buena Vista, where you’ll also enjoy views of the Acropolis.

A: Agiou Filippou 7, Athina

Cinque Wine Bar

Wine lovers this one’s for you! With a great range of local and international reds and whites- Cinque is laid back, casual and inviting.

A: Agatharchou 15, Athina

Tranzistor Bistroteque

If you want to feel Psyrri’s charm, this is a great place to grab a table and sit back and enjoy a drink with the locals.

A: Protogenous 10, Athina

Styl Café

This traditional all-day cafe/bar is a great place to chill after a day of shopping or sightseeing.

A: Evaggelistrias 1, Athina

BOO café

One of the coolest spots in terms of decor and ambiance, it’s the perfect place for a pre-dinner or late-night drink.

A: Lepeniotou 22, Athens

Foundry Hotel Rooftop Bar

On a warm Athenian night, there’s nothing better than heading to a rooftop bar like this to enjoy a refreshing drink and a fun vibe.

A: Sarri 40, Psyrri

The Artist Rooftop Bar

Another great spot in the Greek capital that offers lush cocktails on a buzzing rooftop!

A: 7 Kalamida St, Psirri

Kings Theatre Wine Bar

One of the most popular Bistrot and wine bars in the heart of Athens, Kings Theatre is not to be missed when visiting this vibrant neighbourhood- even if it’s only for one quick drink!

A: Karaiskaki 26, Athina

Be Social

Perfect spot to grab a casual drink and then sit back and enjoy people-watching in this historic part of Athens.

A: Agios Aanargiron 17 & Taki 10, Athina

To Lokali

An all-day bar/restaurant that serves modern Greek mezedes paired with your drink of choice.

A: Sarri 44, Athina

DOS Gardenias

If you are looking for a funky Latin joint, look no further than DOS! Here you will enjoy a cool Cuban-inspired atmosphere as you sip on your Mojito.

A: Ivis 21, Navarchou Apostoli 17, Athens

Cantina Social

This locally loved cafe/bar is a great spot for a casual drink any time of the day.

A: Leokoriou 8, Athina

Clockwork Monkey Bistro

A super chic spot that offers a great atmosphere, amazing food and delicious cocktails!

A: Agias Theklas 5, Psirri

Athens Athens bars Athens drinks Athens holiday Athens tips Athens travel guide Greece travel Greece travel guide Psirri Psyrri