10 Most Popular Neighbourhoods in Athens

Monastiraki is in the heart of Athens with a lively square at its center where locals and visitors have been browsing for bargains for centuries. A haven for shoppers, its bustling flea markets and souvenir shops offer everything from antiques to handmade sandals.

The ancient ruins surrounding the area include Hadrian's Library and the Roman Agora, and you can see the Acropolis above. As the sun sets, the neighbourhood eases into nightlife mode, with cozy tavernas and inviting bars on every corner.

Plaka is a historic neighbourhood directly under the Acropolis, which stretches almost to the large square at Syntagma. Known as one of the nicest neighbourhoods in the city thanks to its beautiful neoclassical architecture and scenic squares. Be sure to stroll the pedestrian cobbled streets but watch out for motorbikes and delivery drivers.

Browse artisan shops, local boutiques and traditional tavernas serving authentic Greek delicacies. Then see what’s playing at the Cine Paris, a rooftop movie theater that shows movies under the stars.

Thissio is a traditional neighbourhood in the old part of Athens, just northwest of the Acropolis. It has plenty of pedestrian streets, historic landmarks and tempting cafes. Take a stroll along the Apostolou Pavlou road, which connects to the base of the Acropolis by way of the National Observatory of Athens and the Filopappou Hill park, which is packed with charming cafes and tavernas.

By day, sip a chilled frappé coffee and enjoy people watching. Then, as the sun sets and the Acropolis lights up, join locals and tourists enjoying the ancient view.

Kolonaki is one of Athens most stylish neighbourhoods, just north of Syntagma Square, in the heart of downtown, close to the Parliament building. Known for its fashionable stores, art galleries and trendy cafes, Kolonaki is the place to see and be seen in Athens. It’s also a good chance to browse local designers as well as internationally known labels.

While you’re there, see the city from another angle and take a ride on the Kolonaki funicular railroad, which takes you to the summit of Mount Lycabettus and offers panoramic views over Athens.

Psiri is between Monastiraki and Plaka downtown in Athens. Once a mostly industrial and residential area, it’s now a rejuvenated neighbourhood that’s a hub for nightlife. You’ll find funky galleries, artisan stores and cute cafes here by day.

At night that Psiri comes alive, thanks to its eclectic mix of late-night bars, music venues and clubs. Check local listings to get the lowdown on which live bands and DJs are playing and get your groove on with young Athenians.

Syntagma is geographically in the center of Athens, but it’s also at the city’s political and cultural heart thanks to its Parliament buildings and huge public square. Home to some of the most iconic moments in modern Athenian history, the parliament building used to be the royal palace, until the monarchy was abolished here in 1924. Guided tours of the building are free and absolutely fascinating.

Don’t miss the changing of the guard ceremony which happens every day on the hour from 10 am until 4 pm, with the guards in their traditional regalia with pom-poms and tassels.

Koukaki is in the foothills of Filopappou Hill, near the center of Athens. It’s a popular spot for visitors to stay thanks to its blend of vintage and modern architecture. Koukaki brings a relaxed urban vibe with all the benefits of a city – such as great restaurants, cafes, bars and stores – without the hassle of the downtown core.

Enjoy a relaxing stroll, soak up those amazing Acropolis views from Filopappou Hill and get to feel like a local in this authentic neighbourhood.

Exarchia, known as Athens’s anarchist neighbourhood, neighbours the upmarket Kolonaki district. It’s close to the city university and home to artists, squatters and free spirits. Visit this edgy neighbourhood for its excellent street art and graffiti, and dip into Athenian counterculture at its many theaters, music venues and art galleries.

Budget-conscious travelers will enjoy Exarchia’s many vintage and thrift stores, and its traditional ‘kafeneio’ style bars are known to offer some of the best deals in the city for a good, strong cup of coffee and a glass of ouzo.

Gazi in the southwest of Athens was once an industrial district centered around its gasworks. These have since been converted into Technopolis, an interactive museum, art space and live music venue. Currently the most fashionably funky district in Athens, Gazi is the place to go to dive into modern Athenian culture – from art, entertainment and dining to fashion and music.

The area's industrial-chic atmosphere, combined with its energetic ambiance and LGBTQ+ friendly vibe, attracts a diverse crowd seeking a taste of Athens' cutting-edge lifestyle.

Kifissia is an upscale neighbourhood just northeast of the downtown hub of Athens. It’s known for excellent shopping and stylish residential architecture. Take a ride on the electric railroad from Monastiraki to get to Kifissia and stroll its leafy streets. Browse the tempting boutiques, stop to enjoy chic cafes along the way and perhaps indulge in dinner at a fine dining restaurant.

Kids will love the Goulandris Natural History Museum with its dinosaur skeletons, fascinating collection of mammals from around the world and excellent rock and fossil specimens.