Beyond the Icons: Hidden Gems & Local Experiences
Take an E-Bike Tour of Athens
Athens is a city best explored on foot or by bike and an e-bike tour is the perfect way to see more without exhausting yourself. Ride through Plaka, stop at secret viewpoints and cycle along hidden backstreets while learning about the city's history from a local guide. Athens by Bike and We Bike Athens are two great companies offering fantastic small-group tours.
Wander Through Plaka & Anafiotika
Step into another world as you stroll through Plaka’s neoclassical houses, bougainvillea-covered alleys and charming stairway cafés. Tucked just below the Acropolis, Anafiotika feels like a Greek island village hidden in the heart of Athens, with whitewashed houses and narrow, winding paths that make it perfect for exploring.
Shop at Monastiraki Flea Market
A treasure hunter’s paradise, Monastiraki Flea Market is a mix of antiques, vintage finds and classic Greek souvenirs. From handmade jewellery and leather sandals to rare books and vinyl records, there’s something for everyone. For the best experience, visit on a Sunday morning when the antique stalls are at their busiest.
Explore Psirri’s Street Art Scene
Athens has an incredible street art and mural scene and Psirri is the best place to see it. The walls of this neighbourhood are covered in massive, colourful murals and politically charged street art, making it feel like an open-air gallery. If you love urban art, make sure you visit Psirri and always look up to enjoy this marvellous scene.
Take in the Stavros Niarchos Foundation Cultural Center
A modern masterpiece blending architecture, nature and culture, this world-class cultural centre is home to the Greek National Opera and the National Library of Greece. Walk through its stunning rooftop park, which offers panoramic views over Athens and the sea, or time your visit for a sunset stroll by the waterfront.
Visit a Traditional Kafeneio for Greek Coffee & Meze
Step into a traditional kafeneio, the kind of place where time slows down and locals linger over Greek coffee, ouzo and small plates of meze. These old-school cafés are scattered throughout Athens, offering a glimpse into a more authentic, everyday side of the city. Order a Greek coffee (sketo (no sugar), metrio (medium sweetness) or glyko (sweet), depending on how sweet you like it and watch the world go by, If you want something stronger, try a glass of tsipouro with a plate of olives, cheese and cured meats. Kafeneio Oraia Hellas (meaning Beautiful Greece) in Monastiraki is a good example of this. This place has been around and was an influential spot since the 19th century. Go there to soak in the atmosphere and enjoy the scene!