Many travelers come to Athens to see the Acropolis and the other famous ancient ruins, but there's so much more to this historic city than meets the eye. If you're looking to discover the hidden gems of Athens, you're in luck. From quiet neighborhoods to off-the-beaten-path museums, this city is full of surprises. In this article, we'll take you on a journey through some of the best hidden gems in Athens, where you'll discover a side of the city that many visitors miss. So put on your walking shoes and get ready to explore!
Don't Miss These Athens City Spots
Pangrati, Athens' Hip Neighborhood for Food and Drinks
Pagrati is undeniably one of the trendiest neighborhoods in Athens, boasting some of the city's best all-day hangouts, restaurants, ice cream parlors, and cocktail bars. Situated just a few kilometers away from the bustling heart of the city, Pangrati offers its residents and visitors a plethora of options to revel in its lively squares until the late hours of the night. It all started a decade ago when the legendary Chelsea Hotel, an all-day bar, opened its doors and immediately became a favorite haunt in a neighborhood that had few options for entertainment. Today, Pagrati has transformed into the go-to neighborhood for a night out, as well as for living in.
Koukaki, An Old Time Classic Neighborhood
Koukaki encompasses the area between Dionysiou Areopagitou Street and Kountourioti Square and extends from the outskirts of Filopappos to Syngrou Avenue. This vibrant neighborhood boasts a rich history and has undergone significant changes in recent decades, including the pedestrianization of two main streets, the addition of two metro stations, and the opening of the new Acropolis Museum. In more recent times, the rise of Airbnb has also become a notable presence in the area. Koukaki, also, offers a diverse selection of sophisticated and alternative restaurants and entertainment shops that cater to both visitors and permanent residents of Athens. The area also features barber shops, self-service laundromats, and bicycle repair shops, as well as boutique stores showcasing independent Greek designers and shops offering new age tourist items. Moreover, during Halloween (Apokries fest), some of the most festive street parties in the city take place in this vibrant neighborhood.
Hello from Wild West
Petroupoli and Haidari boast breathtaking views of the city, stretching from the southern sea to the northern peaks of Penteli and Parnitha. Aegaleo and Peristeri are renowned for their delectable mezedes, abundant wine, and popular bars. Although the western suburbs of Athens are often considered remote from the city center, neighborhoods like Petroupoli and Haidari offer newly constructed homes with stunning vistas at reasonable prices compared to other regions of Attica. A visit to the Apolis cafe - lounge bar at the top Agios Dimitrios hill in Petroupoli city is well worth the afternoon stroll, where you can indulge in exceptional food and drink while capturing some of your most memorable - instagramming photos.
Athens and Attica, in general, offer more than just amazing historical landmarks and monuments. It is a modern, welcoming, and bustling city, and above all, one of the safest cities in the world. From the city center to its surrounding neighborhoods, there are countless hidden gems waiting to be discovered by visitors. One thing is certain, visitors can enjoy exceptional food at affordable prices, indulge in plenty of drinks at trendy bars, and attend a wide range of cultural events, from concerts to small and large theater productions.
In Athens, day and night offer endless opportunities for exploration. During the summer months, the city is bustling with people strolling the streets and browsing shops, and the warm weather provides the perfect conditions for nearby sea escapes for swimming and dining. Whether it's day or night, Athens always has something exciting to offer its visitors.
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