The Complete Athens Travel Guide (2024 edition)
© Mike Kw
Written by Theodora Tseva January 2024
Welcome to Athens, where ancient history meets contemporary creativity in an inspiring fusion of art and design.
Embark on a journey through this vibrant city, where every street corner tells a story and every museum showcases masterpieces from antiquity to modernity.
Discover a dynamic blend of classical architecture, innovative galleries, and thriving street art scenes, making Athens a haven for art enthusiasts and design aficionados alike.
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Athens Travel Guide
When to visit
May: ADAF: Athens Digital Arts Festival
June: Annual International Conference on Visual and Performing Arts
September: Art Athina
September: AIFF: Athens International Film Festival
October: Platform Projects
November: ASFF: Athens Short Film Festival
What to do
1. Alekos Fassianos Museum
© Alekos Fassianos Museum
Established in 2023, the Alekos Fassianos Museum occupies a building revamped in 1995 through a close collaboration between architect Kyriakos Krokos and artist Alekos Fassianos. Alekos Fassianos was a celebrated Greek painter and artist known for his distinctive contributions to modern and contemporary art.
Notably, it stands out globally as one of the few museums where the artist-architect collaboration shapes a unique interaction between the artworks and the space. Beyond its architectural significance, the museum additionally hosts exhibitions, discussions, and educational programs, making it a significant cultural and artistic landmark in Athens.
Address: Neofytou Metaxa 15, Athens 104 39
2. Stavros Niarchos Foundation and Cultural Center or SFNCC
© Stavros Niarchos Foundation and Cultural Center or SFNCC
The Stavros Niarchos Foundation and Cultural Center, named after the Greek shipping magnate and philanthropist Stavros Niarchos, is near Faliro Bay. This cultural hub, designed by renowned architect Renzo Piano, seamlessly blends nature and the arts. While not a traditional museum, it is definitely considered a center for art because it houses the National Library of Greece and the Greek National Opera and offers a diverse array of experiences, including music performances, exhibitions, opera productions, and engaging events.
A highlight is the expansive canal and the picturesque Stavros Niarchos Park. Notably, the park boasts 16 distinct tree species, 161 varieties of shrubs, and a rich assortment of grasses and bulbs.
Address: Stavros Niarchos Foundation Cultural Center Syggrou Avenue 364, Kallithea 17674
3. National Gallery of Greece
© National Gallery of Greece
Home to remarkable 19th and 20th-century collections, the National Gallery of Greece holds an extensive collection of Greek and European art. From Parthenis and Gizis to the timeless works of Rembrandt and El Greco, this six-floor gallery opened in 2021, provides a captivating journey through artistic evolution.
The National Gallery of Greece is a place where history and creativity come together, making it a must-visit for people who love art and history.
Address: Michalakopoulou 1, Athens 115 28
4. Basil & Elise Goulandris Museum of Contemporary Art
© Basil & Elise Goulandris Museum of Contemporary Art
In the heart of Athens' vibrant Pangrati lies the Basil & Elise Goulandris Museum of Contemporary Art. Opened in 2019, this multi-floor museum showcases a diverse collection of contemporary artworks, including pieces by renowned artists like Picasso, Kandinsky, Giacometti, and sculptures by the legendary Auguste Rodin.
Notably, it also features exceptional creations by Greek painters, making it a captivating destination for art enthusiasts seeking a rich blend of international and local artistic expression.
Address: Eratosthenous 13, Athens 106 75
5. Benaki Museum
© Benaki Museum
The Benaki Museum is a cultural hotspot in the upscale Kolonaki district. It houses a varied collection of Greek art and history in neoclassical art. The museum organizes various exhibitions, including the 2021 exhibition commemorating the 100th anniversary of the Greek Revolution, which displays objects and artwork from various periods. The café on the top level offers wonderful meals and spectacular views, rounding off the experience in this charming area.
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6. Acropolis Museum
© Acropolis Museum
This guide would be incomplete without mentioning the Acropolis Museum. This modern architectural gem in Athens, located at the foot of the famous Acropolis, elegantly blends the past and present. Its outstanding design blends in wonderfully with the ancient items that it showcases. Visiting this unique location is like traveling back in time to ancient Athens. There are wonderful sculptures, pottery, parts of the Parthenon, and other notable artifacts like the caryatids. The Acropolis Museum is the best way to learn about ancient Greece its history.
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Where to eat
1. Spondi
© Spondi
Spondi, the epitome of fine dining, delivers an unforgettable Michelin-starred experience in the heart of Athens. Set within a nice environment, this restaurant showcases contemporary Mediterranean cuisine.
Diners have the option to savor their meals indoors beneath graceful stone arches or dine al fresco in the beautiful courtyard. The soft lighting and exquisite décor create a truly incomparable gourmet dining ambiance at Spondi, making it an iconic destination for all those who appreciate high-class gastronomy.
Price range: $$$$
Address: Pyrronos 5, Pagrati, Athens 116 36, Greece
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2. Strofi Athenian Restaurant
© Strofi Athenian Restaurant
With a large window that creates a backdrop that frames the Acropolis, Strofi offers a combination of great food and great views. The warm and inviting atmosphere, combined with the modern interior offers a great dining experience for all visitors.
Strofi serves classic Greek cuisine with a twist of modern and contemporary. The must-try is the goat cooked on parchment paper with gruyere, fresh tomatoes, and potatoes, a contemporary take on a timeless Greek favorite.
Price range: $$-$$$
Address: Rovertou Galli 25, Athens 117 42
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3. Aleria
© Aleria Restaurant
A modern and chic restaurant, Aleria, is housed in a neoclassical villa with a charming courtyard, offering a Mediterranean culinary experience. The inside of the restaurant is designed to match the villa's old-fashioned charm with tasteful furniture and decorations that enhance the ambiance.
Aleria is the perfect place to enjoy high-end food in a unique ambiance. The Executive Chef draws inspiration from food traditions, local ingredients, seasonal elements, and personal life experiences to craft a menu of modern Greek dishes, marrying traditional dishes with a contemporary flair.
Address: Megalou Alexandrou 57, Athens 104 35
Price Range: $$$$
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4. Barbadimos Peiraias
© Barbadimos Peiraias
The aroma of kebabs will fill the air as you step inside Barbadimos in Piraeus. The intricate decor with warm, inviting colors and the great service will make your experience the best you had in a while.
Barbadimos in Piraeus is more than a culinary gem, is a cultural experience. Since 2010, Barbadimos has offered a variety of meats and delicious cooked food to choose from. A must-try dessert is the Kazan dipi, which is Turkish caramelized milk pudding.
Price range: $$
Address: Georg. Theotoki 2, Piraeus 185 37
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5. Philos Athens
© Philos Athens
Need a cocktail break, lunch, or brunch? Philos Athens provides all these options in an inviting and cozy atmosphere with rustic touches.
With comfortable seating, and its iconic magazine stand, Philos Athens will provide a great ambiance as you enjoy the variety of healthy dishes that offers. Up for an avocado toast or a chilled Limoncello Spritz? Philos Athens has you covered.
Price range: $$
Address: 32 Solonos Str., Athens
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Where to stay
1. AthensWas Design Hotel
© AthensWas Design Hotel
In the heart of the lively city of Athens, AthensWas Design Hotel is just minutes away from all the must-see attractions of the area. Stylish, modern, and with perfect views of the Acropolis and the Lycabettus Hill from their rooftop bar/restaurant, what’s not to love about this hotel? AthensWas Design Hotel is more than just a place to relax; it's crafted carefully to elevate your stay in Athens.
Price range: $$$
Address: 5 Dionysiou Areopagitou Street, Athens 117 42
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2. Gatsby Athens
© Gatsby Athens
Enter the enchanting world of The Great Gatsby by booking a stay at Gatsby Athens. Gatsby Athens located in a vibrant part of the city, is a fancy, creatively decorated, and cozy boutique hotel that serves as an excellent choice for your stay. It works as an ideal starting point to explore the city. Either for business or pleasure, Gatsby Athens promises to make you feel at home during your stay in Athens.
Price range: $$
Address: 4 Xanthou Street, Athens 105 57
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3. Four Seasons Astir Palace Athens
© Four Seasons Astir Palace Athens
Escape to the tranquility of the Athenian Riviera while enjoying all the amenities that Four Seasons Astir Palace Athens offers.
From the private beach to the elegant rooms and suites with great views of the sea, the resort ensures a luxurious and comfortable stay. The different cuisines that the multiple restaurants offer, and amenities including the spa and the pools, make this seaside retreat the best destination to relax and recharge.
Price range: $$$
Address: 40 Apollonos Street, Athens 166 71
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4. Hotel Grande Bretagne
© Hotel Grande Bretagne
The legendary institution that combines modern luxury and classic charm since 1874, has one name: Hotel Grande Bretagne. Located across Syntagma Square, in downtown Athens, Grand Bretagne Hotel is close to all the important sights. The hotel's beautifully designed rooms and suites offer a fantastic place to stay, and their rooftop restaurant offers breathtaking views of the city. Dive into luxury and history while experiencing the best service and elegance in the most famous hotels in the city.
Fun fact: Many celebrities including Frank Sinatra, Maria Callas, and Winston Churchill have stayed in Hotel Grande Bretagne.
Price range: $$$$
Address: 1 Vasileos Georgiou A Street, Athens 105 64
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5. Perianth Hotel
© Perianth Hotel
In the historic Plaka area is located Perianth Hotel, a fancy and artsy boutique hotel for those who are looking for accommodation in a comfy place. The rooms are modern and stylish with unique design elements. The location of the hotel allows the guest to explore the Plaka area and enjoy some incredible views of the Acropolis from the hotel.
Price range: $$$
Address: 3, Aghiou Dimitriou Street & 2, Petraki Street, Athens 105 63
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Where to go out
1. Island Athens Riviera
© Island Athens Riviera
Located approximately 40 minutes from Athens, Island Athens Riviera provides a unique beachfront getaway. It effortlessly transforms from a calm coastal retreat into a vibrant and upscale club and bar. The bar offers an array of cocktails, including beloved classics and locally inspired creations, all ready for guests to savor.
Price range: $$$
Address: 27th km, Athens-Sounio Avenue, 166 72
2. Baba au Rum
© Baba au Rum
As the ultimate cocktail destination, Baba au Rum stands out as a renowned cocktail bar, celebrated for its inviting atmosphere and innovative drink creations. Located in the city center, this bar not only offers imaginative mixology with cocktails blending classic and modern flavors but also offers a delightful selection of gourmet small plates to complement your experience.
Price range: $$
Address: Klitiou 6, Athina 105 60
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3. Jazz in Jazz
© Jazz in Jazz
For aficionados of Jazz, right in the heart of Athens, Jazz in Jazz serves as a sanctuary for those with an appreciation for good music, live shows, and finely crafted cocktails. Let the jazz vibe take you in as you sip on cool drinks, or their famous whiskey and groove to the live music filling the air.
Price range: $$
Address: Kolokotroni 6, Athina 105 62
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4. Anglais Athens
© Anglais Athens
With great views of the Acropolis, Anglais is a rooftop bar-restaurant famous for its signature cocktails and upscale ambiance. You can enjoy the rooftop in the morning for a coffee or at night for a sip of the “Spritz of Athens,” overlooking the city in a setting that exudes elegance.
Price range: $$$
Address: Voulis 7, Athina 105 62
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5. Couleur Locale
© Couleur Locale
Another great rooftop cocktail bar with stunning views of Athens and contemporary, tropical decor, Couleur Locale seamlessly blends classic Greek flavors with modern cocktails. It's open from day to night, offering a diverse menu of Mediterranean dishes, including coffee, beverages, lunch, dinner, and spirits.
Price range: $$
Address: Couleur Locale: Normanou 3, Athina 105 55
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6. The Clumsies
© The Clumsies
Experience an unforgettable Athens evening with superb cocktails and a chic ambiance at Clumsies. This renowned cocktail bar is famous for its inventive mixology and unique decor. Sip on distinctive drinks like the "Aegean Negroni," a twist on the classic, all within the bar's stylishly designed interior. Don’t forget to add to your experience with a diverse selection of small bites from their menu.
Price range: $$
Address: Praxitelous 30, Athina 105 61
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