Hidden Gems for Athens
Find great things to do in Athens
With its world-famous Acropolis, and ancient history, Athens can steal a culture-lover’s heart. But beyond the main sights are other gems within the Greek capital. In our travel guide you will find great things to do in Athens.
1. Hidden Gem Athens: Monastiraki Flea Market
No trip would be complete without visiting a market. We have to admit that this flea market draws a lot of tourists, but it is good for treasure-hunting. You can buy almost everything here: from clothes to jewellery to postcards. If you’re patient enough and have a little bit of luck, you might find a real gem. Just get lost in the small streets and explore the area!
Monastiraki Flea Market / © Instagram: chachliou_
2. Hidden Gem Athens: 48 Urban Garden
This lovely place is located on the ground floor of the Ileana Tounta Contemporary Art Center. When you enter the Urban Garden you’ll feel some New York vibes here.. A stylish trailer in the middle of a green garden area, lampions, music and cold drinks; is there anything else we need? Also, the Cucumber Fizz is incredible! Don´t miss that drink. You can also buy some small plates at the food truck, like the tempting truffle fries.
48 Urban Garden / © Instagram: 48UrbanGarden_cameronbdl
3. Hidden Gem Athens: Exarchia
This alternative student area has had a bit of a reputation for being a place of “trouble,” but it’s actually home to students, a few Greek families, lovely restaurants, bookshops, cafes and bars, and very interesting street art. Most of the really cool stuff can be found among the small streets surrounding the Exarchia square.
Exarchia / © Instagram: angelthedecadent
4. Hidden Gem Athens: IT Restaurant
Deliciousness around the clock, all the day long! The IT restaurant has an amazing breakfast, lunch and dinner menu! We must admit, though, that our top recommendation would be breakfast!. It´s a nice place for easy relaxing and people-watching while sipping your first cappuccino in Athens. Vegetarian, detox, gluten-free, whatever you’d like! There is something for everyone. The best part is that it isn’t just tourists who frequent this spot; you can actually also find lots of locals here, too!
IT Restaurant / © Instagram: giota_letsios
5. Hidden Gem Athens: Anafiotika
Anafiotika, or also referred to as “the hidden village”, is indeed a wonderful oasis away from the busy streets of Athens. As you stroll through this streetless district you will be transported to a Greek island! Many houses in Anafiotika have a cycladic style with white and blue paint, and they are all decorated with colorful flowers. Located right under the Acropolis, walking through this district is worth every second of your time. It is a more tranquil experience and you’ll have some great views of the city.
Anafiotika / © Instagram: mariachaniotii
6. Hidden Gem Athens: Areopagus
About 115 meters tall, the Areopagus is one of the best places in all of Athens to enjoy a spectacular view of the whole city. It is a beautiful rock formation that first served as a place for popular assembly. Now it is the perfect place to sit, relax and take incredible pictures of Athens, the Acropolis, and other attractions from a distance. Coming here to watch the sunset or even the sunrise makes the experience even more unforgettable. The Areopagus is located near the Acropolis and it is a must-visit together with all the historical sites of the city.
Areopagus / © Instagram: thekristofkovacs
7. Hidden Gem Athens: Bobo Winebar
If you are looking for an amazing restaurant to go to with your partner, look no further than Bobo Winebar. Here you’ll have a wide selection of local and international wines to choose from and taste. And yes, they all are delicious! The food doesn’t disappoint either. You could start your meal with a tasty burrata salad or a beef carpaccio and then order as your main course an extraordinary beef picanha. The atmosphere of Bobo is calm and soothing which increases its romantic vibes!
Bobo Winebar / © Instagram: bobo_winebar
8. Hidden Gem Athens: Davinci Gelato
It is not a secret that Athens can be really hot during the summer. However, with such a gelato parlor around, you won’t mind it a single bit. As soon as you enter the store you face your first “hard” decision: your cone pick! Some are covered with tasty chocolate, pistachios, sprinkles or nuts! Then comes the “hardest” decision ever: your flavor! They have a wide variety of delicious flavors to choose from; hazelnut, ferrero, strawberry, kinder bueno, passion fruit, and even some vegan options! This spot is a no-brainer for gelato lovers, you’ll want to come back every day. There is no way you can miss it since it is located near the Roman Agora.
Davinci Gelato / © Instagram: foodieonfleek