5 December 2024
When you think of Athens, Greek mythology and the Acropolis might come to mind, but the city also boasts a surprisingly trendy design scene. To explore it, you’ll need to venture beyond the usual tourist spots – meaning: avoid lingering in Plaka unless you love streets filled with souvenir shops. Instead, visit the upscale Kolonaki, uncover hidden gems in Exarcheia, and don’t miss the Athenian Riviera.
On the Destination Page of Athens, you can find all 22+ tips for design lovers, but here I’d like to share 8 favorites. 2 x EAT, 2 x SHOP, 2 x STAY, and 2 x ART throughout the city.
Pharaoh
Located in the anarchist district of Exarcheia, Pharaoh might make you wonder if you’re in the right place upon arrival. Graffiti and shuttered windows dominate the surroundings. Once inside, however, you’ll find one of the hottest tables in town. Expect delicious dishes cooked over an open flame, a lively atmosphere, great music, and of course, excellent (Greek) wines.
Anäna Coffee & Food
Anäna Coffee is known for its specialty coffee, which often draws long lines, but it offers much more. Enjoy a vegetarian lunch, buy a planner, browse magazines, or even take a workshop – all in the heart of the city.
Phāon
This year, Phāon opened its doors in chic Kolonaki, offering perfumes and plants. It’s the perfect place to discover new favorite scents from brands like Ormaie Paris, Santa Maria Novella, and Perfumer H. Just around the corner, you can pick up bread and pastries at Kora.
Hyper Hypo
For those who love finding the best design bookstores in every city, Hyper Hypo is a must. You can easily spend hours browsing through magazines, books on art, architecture, fashion, travel, and more, along with a selection of small accessories. Highly recommended!
Ace Hotel & Swim Club
In October, Ace Hotel & Swim Club opened along the Athens Riviera, just a five-minute walk from the beach. Designed by the French studio Ciguë in collaboration with local artists and designers, the hotel also welcomes non-guests with a coffee bar, restaurant, and, of course, a pool with plenty of sunbeds – ideal for warmer days to escape the city.
Ergon Bakehouse
Ergon Bakehouse is a hotel centered around a bakery, where everything revolves around a love for dough. No need for expensive room fragrances -the scent of freshly baked cinnamon buns does the trick. The ground floor houses a restaurant serving pizza, while the rooftop +2 restaurant offers a more upscale dining experience.
Acropolis
For first-time visitors, the Acropolis is a must-see—a breathtaking collection of ancient structures overlooking the city. Visit early, and avoid the summer heat. For a great photo from afar, head to Philopappos Hill. The Panathenaic Stadium, the birthplace of the modern Olympic Games, is also a striking sight.
Modern galleries
Athens also has a vibrant contemporary art scene. Check out the Gagosian Gallery in Kolonaki, which recently showcased works by James Turrell. The Breeder Gallery, born from a magazine, is one of the city’s most cutting-edge contemporary art spaces.
Find all the 22+ recommendations in Athens on the Athens Destination Page.
Credits: all photos by Petite Passport, except for the first one of Ace Hotel (by Bill Georgoussis) and the last one of Sarah Crowner’s exhibition at Gagosian (picture by Stathis Mamalakis)
