Hestia Asklipiou 9

Even if you just have a fleeting interest in history, this museum should not be missed. While it’s not one of those ultra-modern museums, it will beautifully guide you through no less than five millennia of history and civilization. If you’ve heard people say that Greece is the birthplace of western civilization, this museum will back the saying up quite well.

Today Athens has earned its reputation as a modern European capital, yet it’s Eastern Mediterranean can still be seen in its culture and gastronomy, with no better place to see it all happening that at the Central Athens Market. A fish market, a meat market, a produce market and a spice market all congregate in one Downtown area so that Athenians can shop ingredients for their meals.

Call it the anarchists’ hangout if you will, this “anti-establishment” main square is the focal point of Exarchia, the area that attracts artists, potheads, leftists and rebels – both with and without a cause – that all make this alternative area what it is. Cheap cafés and eateries, an occasional skirmish, and a very laidback vibe will greet you. For the adventurous!

Designed by a notable Danish architect back in the days, the Academy of Athens, the university building next to it and the library on Panepistimiou Street are true works of art from the modern city’s early years. You’ll meet Athena, Apollo, Plato and Socrates – or at least marble versions of them – right on the premises.The buildings represent the summit of neoclassical architecture and were inaugurated circa 1886.

Asklipiou61 might be close to the leftist/alternative Exarchia Square, but it’s also within walking distance to Kolonaki Square, which can be described asExarchia’s antithesis despite their closeness! This is wheredesigner boutiques, fine patisseries, chic dining and sophisticated nightlife prove that Athens has many different corners for many different folks. If you like classy, this area is a must!

Get ready for the tastes of the east with this Anatolian, Kurdish, Middle Eastern and Greek meld of flavors. More budget street food style than hot dishes, the cuisine features thin meat pies called “lahmatzoun and savory pies known as “Pinerli” which will make your day.

If you want a change from Greek cuisine and feel like something more spicy, head to Pink Elephant for some good Indian fare. From Chicken Tikka Masala to different veg options like Dal Channa, this panoply of flavors will awaken the senses and hit the spot when you’re hungry.

A casual sushi bar with decent prices, Nakamaentices you with spicy tuna or salmon maki rolls, inside-out rolls, sashimi and nigiri. There are even vegetarian and vegan options, making it a great place if you and your friends have different preferences.

Great value for money, Miss Tartu offers coffee and light meals or snacks, including a brunch that has earned positive feedback. Their open-face sandwiches, wholewheat bagels, club sandwiches, eggs and omelets match perfectly with the fresh fruit juices and high-grade teas. This is a hangout for the locals, so more authentic!

More on the chic side, Café Boheme/Barbayannis has a good variety of quality foods including salads, seafood specialties, pasta, pizza and grilled meats. There’s a breakfast/brunch menu with omelets, fresh orange juice and much more at decent prices.

This award-winning bar is only one neighborhood away and offers dazzling cocktails that have earned rave reviews. This is a very happening night spot and one of Athens’ most fashionable, with really greatdrinks, sumptuous food and strong music to match. Blessed with a buzzing crowd, it’s the place to see and be seen.

A wine bar and more, Warehouse is one of the finer establishments in the area, where attentive, knowledgeable staff members can recommend excellent Greek wines and can pair them up with their food offerings. The place also serves coffee in the morning, along with good breakfast options.

Open in the afternoons and going on until 1 or 2 am, this cozy pub positions itself as an “early house bar”, not least because of the good music played by the DJ. You’re promised all the classical liquors and spirits, as well as a hefty selection of Greek beers from specific microbreweries.

A vibrant café with its own personality and excellent hot and cold coffee, not to mention the hot chocolate in cooler months. The service has been praised by visitors and the accompanying snacks also have positive reviews, including the vegan bars.

Longer opening hours than regular neighborhood pharmacies, this pharmacy stays open from 8 am to 9 pm on weekdays (Saturday until 8 pm, closed on Sunday). You’ll find a host of interesting Greek-made personal care products too and a host of nutritional supplements.