Discover the best classic bars in Athens, where timeless interiors, local stories and decades of nightlife history come together over a great drink.

Athens is a city where history lives not only in its ancient monuments and atmospheric streets, but also in the bars that have shaped its social life for generations. The city’s nightlife has long been an essential part of its identity, with locals gathering in beloved establishments that have stood the test of time. After dark, these classic bars reveal the stories, personalities and traditions that continue to make them some of the city’s most enduring meeting places.

Brettos (1909)

Nestled in the picturesque neighbourhood of Plaka, Brettos is the oldest distillery in Athens and one of the city’s most recognisable drinking establishments. Founded by Michael Brettos in 1909, it originally produced ouzo, brandy and a variety of liqueurs using family recipes brought from Smyrna. As demand grew, production moved to a larger premises, while the original shop evolved into the much-loved bar and liquor store it is today.

Stepping inside feels like entering another era. The bar’s most striking feature is its wall of illuminated, colourful bottles stretching from floor to ceiling, creating a vivid contrast against the historic interior. Original wooden barrels and handcrafted distilling equipment remain on display, offering a glimpse into more than a century of spirit-making. Whether you stop by for one of Brettos’ signature liqueurs, an ouzo tasting or a classic cocktail, it remains one of the best places to enjoy a drink in the heart of Athens.

A: Kidatheon 41, Athens

Galaxy Bar (1972)

This spot has become an institution thanks to its enduring approach to hospitality. Every detail of Galaxy Bar, from the height of the counter to the carefully positioned stools, has been designed with comfort and conversation in mind. Its distinctive fixed chairs encourage guests to settle in, order another drink and hang around a little longer.

Over the decades, Galaxy became a second office and meeting place for journalists, publishers and intellectuals working in central Athens. It is said that even international figures have passed through its doors, with Frank Sinatra among the notable names associated with the bar’s long history. What has always set Galaxy apart, however, is its sense of community. Regulars know one another by name, newcomers are made to feel welcome, and conversations often flow as easily as the drinks, creating an atmosphere that has remained largely unchanged for decades.

A: Stadiou 10, Athens 

Au Revoir (1957)

When Au Revoir first opened on Patission Street, many considered it too far from the heart of Athens’ nightlife. That perception quickly changed. Its intimate atmosphere soon attracted actors, musicians, writers and journalists, transforming it into one of the city’s most cherished meeting places.

The bar’s history is filled with memorable stories, including the famous visit of Frank Sinatra following his performance in Athens. According to local lore, he spent part of the evening quietly enjoying a drink at one of the front tables. Whether fact or folklore, stories like these have become part of Au Revoir’s enduring appeal, continuing to draw visitors nearly seventy years later.

A: Patission 136, Athens 

Ippopotamos (1978)

More than just a neighbourhood bar, Ippopotamos has been part of Athens’ social fabric for more than four decades. It has long attracted a wonderfully diverse crowd, from students and artists to professionals and loyal locals who have been coming here for years. One thing has always remained the same is that everyone is welcome.

Located on the pedestrian street of Delfon, it moves with ease throughout the day, serving morning coffee, casual lunches and evening drinks with the same warm hospitality. Its authenticity and consistency have made it one of the few places in Athens where different generations continue to gather under the same roof.

A: Delfon, Athens 

Batman (1989)

A staple of Athens’ nightlife scene, and a personal favourite, Batman is a place where time seems to stand still. The later you arrive, the better. Hidden away in Neos Kosmos, it feels like the perfect final stop after a long night wandering the city. There is no fuss, or pretension, just people sharing a space, a drink and the passing of time.

For more than three decades, Batman has remained exactly where it began, cultivating a loyal following among musicians, artists and night owls. After finishing their own performances, many of Athens’ best-known musicians would gather here, with late-night conversations often giving way to impromptu performances. The bar’s reputation spread through word of mouth, becoming an artistic melting pot where Greek folk legends mixed with rock influences and stories flowed well into the early hours.

Inside, the atmosphere remains delightfully unchanged. The small bar is lined with photographs, memorabilia and decades of memories. Strong drinks, emotional music and a genuine sense of connection define the experience. Batman is more than just a neighbourhood institution; it captures a side of old Athens where music, conversation and community continue long after midnight.

A: Theodoritou Vresthenis 40, Athens 

BAR 56 (1990)

Hidden away in a semi-basement in Kolonaki, BAR 56 is one of those places you could easily walk past without ever knowing it exists. Tucked behind trees at the top of Ploutarchou Street, visitors descend a flight of stairs before stepping into a timeless whisky bar that has been welcoming regulars for more than 35 years.

Inside, the vibe feels worlds away from modern Athens with leather seating, paisley tablecloths, flickering candles and walls adorned with photographs of jazz legends, which create the feeling of an old-school bar that could just as easily belong in Chicago or New York. Jazz plays softly in the background, while owner Panayotis welcomes guests from behind the leather-covered bar, always happy to recommend a bottle from the bar’s extensive collection.

Whisky is, unsurprisingly, the main attraction and the cellar features an impressive selection of single malts, including several rare labels from around the world, making it one of the city’s best destinations for whisky enthusiasts. 

A: Ploutarchou 56, Athens 

Main image by Bar 56