48 Hours in Athens: A quick guide to the Greek Capital

Looking to see a different side of Athens, after having inevitably discovered the Acropolis and the Parthenon? Or maybe it isn’t your first time in Athens and you’d like to take some time to scope out the lesser-known areas of the Greek capital. From bustling Plaka, to quirky Psyrri, and hidden Anafiotika, here’s a quick guide to the city’s top spots, leaving you the freedom to craft your own 48 hours in Athens to your liking:

What to see & do

Psyrri, a gentrified neighbourhood in central Athens, is vibrant and bustling thanks to its restaurants, bars, galleries, and street art made up of colourful murals that locals and travellers alike come to photograph. Street art lovers will find their personal paradise on Louka Nika – a small alley covered in gorgeous murals – and its surrounding streets.

Once you’ve discovered the city’s local hotspots, be sure to explore its streets, starting with Plaka, which leads all the way up to Anafiotika, an off the beaten path find reminiscent of an island in the Cyclades. Read all about it here!

Where to eat

For brunch, great coffee, lunch, or just a drink, Head to Tazza d’Oro. Nestled on the small streets of Plaka, it’s the perfect nook to start your mornings on their quaint terrace, coffee in hand. Well-positioned for people watching and sunbathing on a beautiful day, it’s also where I enjoyed brunch on my first day in Athens. The decor is reminiscent of a vintage flea market, with each table adorned with unmatched dishes and cutlery, and the clientele the hippest in Athens.

iFeel is a laid back, no frills bar and eatery complete with good vibes and a warm staff. Grab breakfast or a healthy juice, stay for dinner, or enjoy a cocktail among friends – all while discovering the Psyrri neighbourhood.

For a taste of Greek gastronomy, head to Simul Gastronomic Situ. Set in a sleek and minimalist space with subtle wooden accents, they use only the best in locally sourced, seasonal produce. On the menu, you’ll find Greek classics that have been updated, such as their lamb carpaccio with lemon confit, crispy olives, and a wild herb broth, along with eggplant, which is presented smoked and topped with feta cheese and a quail egg.

Where to play

For unparalleled views of the Acropolis perched above the city as the sun sets, there’s Couleur Locale. Accessed via a side street off of Ermou, you’ll spot locals and tourists heading in the same direction to quench their thirst and take in the sights. Upon entering, this multi-level bar leads you all the way to their spectacular open-air rooftop terrace on the third floor.

360 Bar is another rooftop bar option that provides, well, you guessed it, 360-degree views of the capital on its verdant roof garden. Grab yourself something to eat or drink and take it all in.

The Art Foundation (TAF) Bar is a quirky spot that meshes a gallery and workshop space with a courtyard bar. I accidentally stumbled upon it while looking for Couleur Locale, actually, and enjoyed my stay, beer in hand, exploring all of its intricate rooms and works of art. It’s definitely worth the pit stop.

Six d.o.g.s is a cultural centre in Psyrri with art exhibits, live music, a cafe, and a bar. Their discreetly located leafy green garden is filled with locals in the know and they serve a mean coffee – which includes iced lattes when sweltering temperatures arrive in Athens.

Beer Time, with its ever-friendly staff, is where you can unwind after a long day of sightseeing, beer in hand.

Where to shop

Athens is home to a host of quaint boutiques that are perfect for picking up a one of a kind memento you won’t find elsewhere.

Situated on Plaka’s Adrianou Street, Forget Me Not is a gift shop that boasts houseware, stationary, and fashion accessories you won’t find elsewhere, all courtesy of the coolest Greek design brands.

Flâneur Souvenirs & Supplies is another carefully curated shop in Plaka that houses goods made from contemporary Greek and international designers. From printed mugs, to quirky tees, and knick-knacks, urban travellers will definitely find something that suits their tastes here.

T-Greeks (The Greek Fisherman) definitely stands out with its quintessential baby blue and white merch and delicate, minimalist designs that give off Santorini vibes. A gift from here – including for yourself – is sure to be loved.

Retrosexual Vintage Shop is a treasure trove of vintage finds. This second-hand shop sells pieces that range from furniture, to kitchen appliances, and decor from the 1920s all the way to the 1990s.

End your shopping spree at Melissinos Art – The Poet Sandal Maker. This institution just off Monastiraki Square is where the likes of Sofia Loren, Jackie O, Barbra Streisand, and Sarah Jessica Parker have had their feet fitted and handmade sandals made for them. Why not get a customized pair of your own? I opted for the Socrates model and wore them all summer.

Have you visited Athens? What are your absolute musts? Let me know below!