Athens

Athenian Residences. I loved this boutique hotel, tucked in a quiet neighborhood of Athens yet close to vibrant bars and restaurants. The hotel offers two room types: traditional 1920s residences with beautiful stonework or modern luxury apartments with full kitchens. With only five rooms, it provides a secluded, private retreat. A yard with a pool and sitting area offers a perfect escape from the summer heat. They serve nine organic, homemade in-room breakfast options, including gluten-free, vegan, and Greek. Athenian Residences offered me a complimentary stay, but these are my own opinions.

The Modernist. Situated in the stylish Kolonaki neighborhood, this hotel combines casual, contemporary luxury with mid-century design. It’s an effortlessly cool hotel that was crafted for every traveler type, offering five room types from small to family. They’re known to host collaborations with local businesses and designers, giving you insider access to some of the city’s best shops, bars, restaurants and brands.

AthensWas. Discover a luxurious stay with tasteful, design-driven rooms on Athen’s most historical street Dionysiou Areopagitou. In addition to their 21 rooms, the hotel houses SENSE Restaurant, a modern Greek rooftop restaurant. AthensWas is a member of Design Hotels.

Ergon House. A unique, Michelin-guide awarded epicurean boutique hotel, dedicated to being “a place where the positive energies of Greek food and hospitality converge.” Hotel rooms sit above the marketplace, with amenities like lounges, a gym, a rooftop terrace, and a communal kitchen.

Shila. A 1920s residence boutique hotel that feels like stepping foot into a dream. Shila means “character” in Sanskrit and that is felt within every inch of this space from the beautifully curated in-suite breakfasts to the extensive art collection adorning the hotel’s walls. They also have a sister hotel and concept space called Mona and a membership club for creatives.

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Acropolis & The Parthenon. You can’t come to Athens and not visit the Acropolis, as its one of the most influential landmarks in history. Constructed as far back as 3,500BC, it’s quite an incredible site to see and wonder about how all the stone was rolled up the hilltop and constructed together. Be sure to head over the the flagpole for the perfect photo. Pro tip: Head there on a Sunday, when the Evzones raise the flag and lower it in the morning and at sunset, alongside an Athenian marching band playing the national anthem.

National Gardens. Vast and beautiful garden space.

Museum of Cycladic Art. If you’re a fan of art, this museum is worth checking out.

The National Archaeological Museum. One of the top museums in the world which contains the richest collection of artifacts from Greek ancient past.

Monastiraki Neighborhood. Filled with shops, bars, restaurants and markets (check out Varvakios Agora), perfect for a lively morning activity.

Acropolis and Parthenon Guided Walking Tour. See the landmark monuments of Athens in a new light during a late afternoon tour of the Acropolis, guided by a licensed archaeologist. You’re guaranteed to skip any long wait lines during this walking tour of the UNESCO World Heritage Site. Avoid the crowds and warmer temperatures while taking a leisurely stroll around the Parthenon, Propylaia gateway, Temple of Athena Nike and more.

Athens day cruise - 3 Islands with lunch drinks transfer included. Embark on an unforgettable luxury day cruise from Athens, exploring the Saronic Sea's beauty aboard the elegant Angelique or traditional Martika yacht. Visit the islands of Agkistri, Moni, and Aegina, enjoy swimming, snorkeling, and a Greek-inspired buffet with local wines, while taking in the scenic views of the Saronic Gulf.

Athens's original vegan food tour. Delve into Athens’ vegetarian cuisine on this special walking tour. Spend 3 hours exploring the city and stopping to try flavorful olives, honey, nuts, sesame bread, Greek coffee, loukoumades, and more. Taste at least 10 different local delicacies before your tour concludes. This tour can also be tailored to accommodate vegans.

Greek Traditional Vegan Cooking Classes in Athina. Explore the art of vegan cooking through our immersive cooking courses! Led by expert chefs, our courses offer a hands-on experience to master the techniques and flavors of plant-based cuisine. Discover a diverse range of recipes, from hearty main courses to delectable desserts Whether you're a seasoned chef or a beginner in the kitchen, our vegan cooking courses cater to all skill levels. Join us to cultivate your culinary abilities, embrace a sustainable lifestyle, and savor the delicious and healthful world of vegan gastronomy.

Athens Cooking Class and Lunch in our beautiful garden in Greece. Join Gianna and Elena on a heartwarming culinary journey through their family's treasured recipes, as they share timeless cooking traditions from Crete and Peloponnese. Discover the art of creating delicious, wholesome dishes with fresh herbs and garden vegetables in a memorable Athens cooking class that celebrates love, laughter, and the joy of home-cooked meals.

Greek Cooking Class in Athens Including Rooftop Dinner with Acropolis View. Learn to make real Greek food and enjoy dinner with a view on this small-group cooking class in Athens. Head to a much-loved bakery in vibrant Monastiraki and learn how to make traditional Greek dishes, from tzatziki to spinach pie, with hands-on guidance from an experienced chef. Then, when the food is ready, head up to the roof to enjoy the fruits of your labor with views over the Acropolis.

*The experiences shared are affiliate links to Viator, and I earn a commission on bookings at no extra cost to you. Your support helps me keep creating helpful guides for other travelers like you, so thank you for your trust!

Ohh Boy. All day cafe that is warm and inviting with beautiful clean dishes and a spot with strong wifi for working.

Kora Bakery. Fresh bread and pastry shop that makes for the perfect start to the day.

Holy Llama. A plant-based bakery offering guest breakfast, brunch and lunch.

Yiasemi. The cutest garden and terrace cafe nestled along the charming staircase of Mnisikleous Street. With affordable prices and plenty of vegan options, this is a favorite from day to night.

Salute Bistro. An inviting, open-air café with cozy neighborhood vibes, serving delicious dishes and great music all day.

Williwaw. Great spot to grab a coffee and sweet treat with an inviting staff. Get a cinnamon roll!

VOLIOTIKO TSIPOURADIKO PSIRI (Βολιώτικο Τσιπουράδικο Ψυρρή). This is one of those places that would probably annoy me due to the workers standing outside trying to convince you to come in like you’re walking down the streets of Little Italy in New York. However, I was so glad they did because this place was a GEM! The garden had a beautiful atmosphere and the food was incredible and authentic.

Soil. A beautiful dining experience that highlights sustainable Greek cuisine and has earned 1 Michelin Star and 1 Michelin Green Star.

Vittoria Gati. Beautiful, hearty Italian dishes when the craving hits.

Koulouri of Psiri. ‘Koulouri’ is basically a Greek bagel and this local favorite spot has been making them since the 90s. And it’s open 24 hours.

Simul. A thoughtful dining experience from Chef Nikos Thomas that features in-situ menu creation, using seasonal, raw ingredients. Recommended by the Michelin Guide.

Folk. A West Coast inspired restaurant with thoughtful dishes and atmosphere.

Mr. Peacock. Fun brunch spot with a sunlit garden that transitions into a lively bar with great cocktails.

me kolonaki. Serving beautiful, clean and simple dishes from breakfast to dinner with lots of vegan dishes.

ERGONhouse. This place is incredible. Marketplace meets café meets bar & restaurant, all situated below a boutique hotel. A must visit - especially for foodies.

Kallidromiou’s Food Market. Every Saturday from 6 AM to 4 PM, locals and travelers gather for a “laiki,” a neighborhood farmers' market offering a bounty of fresh produce and homemade products. Athens currently has 195 laikis, but the Kallidromiou market in the Exarchia neighborhood is a crowd favorite. Take some time to explore the nearby shops and cafes—small, eclectic spots offering everything from specialty coffee to artisanal goods, all set against a backdrop of street art.

The Clumsies. A dark, spacious indoor/outdoor two story bar, fit for locals and travelers alike. In 2018, it was voted the 7th best bar in the world. When handed the menu, they also provide you with a blacklight to read it, as the entire thing is written in invisible ink. Take time to read the menu; the cocktails are divided into different floors of a house based on type and it’s really interesting.

Six Dogs. This bar was probably my favorite discovery in Athens. It’s hidden down a dark little walkway and upon entering your go down a set of rainbow-lit stairs to step into a totally outdoor secret garden. They usually have a DJ.

Noel. This bar is cool. I walked past it and was immediately drawn to go take a peek inside. Every inch of this place is beautifully decorated and it calls itself a “holiday bar” due to its decor.

Kolokotroni 9. Didn’t get a chance to go here but this place looks cozy, cool and seems to serve up the perfect cocktail.

Baba Au Rum. Another Worlds Best Bars rated spots in Athens with a diverse and tasty cocktail menu.
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Rooftops

Ciel. We accidentally ended up here for sunset and were not disappointed. Expect a line, but it’s worth the wait. The view could be better, but overall it’s a top spot in my book.

The Zillers. Rooftop located atop a boutique hotel with incredible views. A bit better for sunset dinner and drinks, but can still just grab a drink here.

360 Cocktail Bar. One of the best bars for views of the Acropolis.

A For Athens. Another great rooftop spot for incredible views. A bit touristy, but worth it.

ERE Athens. This shop hits all of the marks for me and I wish I could have transported it back home with me. Part bakery, part coffee shop, and part concept shop with curated goods.

10AM Apotheke. A beautiful concept shop curated with local goods and art hidden in an apartment basement that is only open on Saturdays.

Paraphernalia Athens. The perfect spot for picking up a souvenir you’d actually like.

Hyper Hypo. A colorful store filled with the most perfectly curated collection of books.

Karavan. Made for the eclectic style lovers and maximalists, this shop filled with clothes and home knick knacks is FUN.

Daydreamers. The perfect spot to seek out in a new city for discovering unique, local treasures. You’ll find vintage and curated cool brands here.