Long overlooked by tourists who favored the islands, the Greek capital is now asserting itself as a vibrant city, thanks to its dynamic culinary scene and the artistic energy that permeates every neighborhood. Not to mention its mild winter climate. This combination makes it one of the most glamorous cities of the moment! Here are 5 places to see for yourself.
THE MODERNIST – AN ELEGANT STOPOVER
In the heart of the trendy Kolonaki district, this hotel—a stone's throw from the metro and just a short walk from the famous Syntagma Square—occupies the site of the former Canadian embassy. Behind a modernist, charcoal-grey facade lie 38 black-and-white rooms with balconies, where no detail has been overlooked: all feature four-star bedding, a selection of books on the shelves, and Marshall speakers, the holy grail for music lovers. On the ground floor, there's a bar and a collection of photographs showcasing the creativity of the young Greek art scene. And on the rooftop, a rooftop terrace offers panoramic views of the Acropolis and Lycabettus Hill.
IOANNOU GENNADIOU 4
THEMODERNISTHOTELS.COM
ALEKOS FASSIANOS MUSEUM – A CONFIDENTIAL ADDRESS
Painter, poet, writer, designer, ceramicist… Alekos Fassianos is probably one of the most important artists on the Greek scene. Since 2023, a museum has been dedicated to him in his former family home, renovated by his architect friend Kyriakos Krokos. The building, facing the street, is rather austere on the outside but brimming with charm and poetry inside, illuminated by skylights. On two levels, visitors can discover the artist's paintings, drawings, sculptures, as well as sketches displayed in glass cases and some previously unseen pieces of furniture. A complete work of art, as the painter even designed the door handles and the stair railing! Don't miss a visit to his studio in the adjoining building, which remains untouched.
NEOFITOU METAXA 15
ALEKOSFASSIANOS.GR
RESTAURANT LINOU SOUMPASIS K SIA – HELLENIC AUDACITY
This is one of Athens' most delightful restaurants, combining modern take on Greek cuisine with a minimalist, anodized aluminum decor, and it's packed at both lunch and dinner. Needless to say, the languid terrace overlooking a square in the Psyri district is a favorite as soon as the temperature rises. Chef Lukas Mailer delights diners with generous and flavorful dishes meant for sharing, such as white taramasalata served with warm, homemade naan bread, red prawn ceviche with lemon, raw bonito on a bed of cauliflower, or exquisite bottarga pasta. The menu, of course, changes with the seasons, as the chef is very particular about using seasonal ingredients.
2 MELANTHIOU STREET, ATHENS
PHARAOH RESTAURANT – A NEW WINE BAR
In the alternative Exarcheia district, where street art is prominently displayed on most buildings, this neo-bistro, which opened a few months ago, ticks all the boxes, from its brutalist design—concrete ceilings and pillars—to its wood-fired dishes. It's a great combination for settling in at the bar while watching the team prepare impeccable mezze: tarama with bottarga, steamed green beans with peach slices and crumbled feta, red mullet or red prawn ceviche… An enticing menu and a fine selection of natural wines.
SOLOMOU 54
PHARAOH.GR
THE BREEDER GALLERY – AN EMBRACED TRANSVERSALITIES
Behind a heavy metal door lies one of Athens' most cutting-edge galleries, nestled in a former ice cream factory in the Metaxourgeio district. The owners, who participate in numerous international art fairs, exhibit all media without hierarchy, from painting and sculpture to photography and installation. The works of two of their artists, Panos Profitis and Eleni Psyllaki, are also on display at the newest Ace Hotel in Glyfada.
IASONOS 45
THEBREEDERSYSTEM.COM
