Welcome to Athens
Athens is an ancient city in the disguise of a modern metropolis, with its magnificent Acropolis – citadel on the hill – bearing the iconic Parthenon temple, high above this sophisticated cosmopolitan city.
One of the world’s oldest cities, Athens’ recorded history goes back some 3,400 years. The city has long been a centre for the arts, learning and philosophy, and is widely referred to as the cradle of Western civilization having produced legendary philosopher and mathematician Plato, whose namesake Academy is still there, and fellow philosopher Aristotle.
Athens may well have changed enormously, and is continuing to do so, with stylish new restaurants, cool shops and new hotels appearing everywhere, but that old small town feel is still there, with its monuments and particularly at its historic centre. Since cars were banished here this ancient site has become a wonderful pedestrian promenade.
Athens is the oldest city in Europe, and one of Europe’s safest and liveliest cities with an amazing mix of old and new, impressing visitors from all over the world with its beauty, variety of food and entertainment, relaxed lifestyle and friendly locals.
Important Information
GREECE
Tourist Information visitgreece.gr
Emergency number: 100
Country code: +30
Currency: Euro
ATHENS
Tourist Information www.visitgreece.gr
Tourist Information Office address:
Greek National Tourism Organisation (EOT )
Tsoha 24, Athens
0210 331 0392
Area code: (0)210
Airports:
Eleftherios Venizelos – Athens International Airport
Attiki Odos, Spata Artemida 190 04
0210 353 0000
Transport:
Public transport – train, metro, bus, ferries www.gtp.gr.
Main taxi firms:
George’s Taxi 0210 963 7030
Greek Taxi 0697 203 0853
Emergency numbers:
Police 100
Fire 199
Ambulance 166
Doctor on duty, pharmacy 1434
Restaurants/Cafés
Spondi
Type of Cuisine: Haute cuisine
Spondi has 2 Michelin stars and has earned itself many awards including ‘best restaurant in Greece’ with its French haute cuisine, warm low-lit ambiance and impeccable service. Since its creation in 1996 by Apostolos Trastelis this restaurant has become a point of reference not only in Athens but in the whole of Greece. Head Chef Arnaud Bignon serves a menu that changes according to the seasons and his creative imagination which offers a la carte dining as well as set tasting menus, Menu Tapas and the mre elaborate Discovery Menu. The food is imaginative and beautifully presented. Has a renowned wine cellar.
www.spondi.gr
Pirronos 5, Athens 116 36
00 30 21 0756 4021
Funky Gourmet
Type of Cuisine: Haute cuisine
Awarded with 2 Michelin stars for “immeasurable thought, creativity and above all the taste which matches the playfulness”, molecular gastronomy restaurant Funky Gourmet is certain to make your dinner an incredible culinary experience. The tasting menus are prepared with fresh and seasonal local products, offering refined and creatively presented Mediterranean cuisine. Three separate degustation menus are presented with such delicacies as Truffled Foie Gras and Lobster from Halkidiki. The stylish restaurant has a modern decor with an art deco lounge and a dining room in white, black and grey tones, inside a neoclassical building.
funkygourmet.com
Paramithias 13 & Salaminos, Gazi.
00 30 210 524 2727
Dionysos
Type of Cuisine: Fine dining
At the foot of the Philopappos hill sits the famous Dionysos restaurant, renowned for its cuisine but also for its imaginative architecture that mixes old and new in a green environment and offers amazing views. Inside the residence features works of contemporary artists Eleni Giannis Moralis Vernardaki artists, and the central courtyard offers an arresting view of the Acropolis. Dionysos is much sought after by the Athenian elite, foreign politicians and celebrities. The menu is modern Greek, prepared with fresh, local ingredients.
www.dionysoszonars.gr
43 Robertou Galli Athens
00 30 21 0923 3182
Kiku
Type of Cuisine: International
Arguably the best Japanese restaurant in town, Kiku is located in the city’s upmarket area of Kolonaki and has a stylish modern décor that is a fitting setting for the perfect Japanese sushi and sashimi, tempura and sukiyaki. Kiku makes all traditional Japanese dishes sleek and full of flavour. Two of their signature dishes are Hakko Unagi (eel sushi) and Hamachi Tartar (yellowtail with spicy lemon sauce). Head Chef Tanaka Minorou also serves local fresh bonito, sea bass and cuttlefish.
www.athenskiku.com
Dimokritou 12, Athens 106 73
00 30 21 0364 7033
Balthazar
Type of Cuisine: Late night
For 14 consecutive years, one of the most renowned, legendary and upbeat restaurant-bars in Athens has been housed in a beautiful neoclassical 1897 manor house in Tsocha Street, in the Ampelokipi area. George and Andreas Pitsilis have taken over the house, where the famous actress Kiveli Andrianou used to live and renamed it Balthazar. Since then, the “wizard” of entertainment has made an impact on Athens’ nightlife and in 14 years has earned thousands of admirers. You can enjoy refreshing cocktails and fresh fruit at the bar, mediterranean cuisine from chef Savvas Kostantinides (Gaspar) in Balthazar’s gorgeous green oasis.
balthazar.gr
27 Tsocha Str. & Vournazou Str., Ampelokipi, Athens, 115 21
00 30 6942559231, 00 30 210 6412300-9
Café Avissinia
Type of Cuisine: Traditional
Café Avissinia is an institution in Athens with its location in the heart of the Monasteraki Flea Market, colourful decor and mix of antiques. This traditional Greek tavern has a dining room with old-fashioned floral wallpaper and marbletop tables, a lovely roof terrace up top with great Acropolis views and often live music. The menu features traditional Greek dishes with influences from Anatolia such as lamb or chicken flavoured with cumin and fresh mint, or veal cooked with aubergine and wild boar meatballs or pork with prunes.
www.avissinia.gr
Kinetou 7 Avissinia Square, Monastiraki, Athens 105 55
00 30 210 32 17 047
Hotels
Hotel Grande Bretagne*****
With breathtaking views of the fabled Acropolis, regal Syntagma Square and the Parliament, lush Lycabettus Hill or the original Olympic Stadium, the multi-awarded 5 star Hotel Grande Bretagne offers an unrivalled perspective of Athens’ mythical history. Not only does the interior pay homage to our celebrated Greek culture with intricate moldings and classic décor, but each of the 320 hotel rooms and suites at the Hotel Grande Bretagne offers enchanting views of the courtyard or a spellbinding panorama of the city’s timeless landmarks. The GB Roof Garden Restaurant & Bar is a great spot for enjoying a drink or dinner as the sun sets behind the Acropolis.
www.grandebretagne.gr
Constitution Square, Athens 105 64
00 30 21 0333 0000
King George Palace Athens*****
Dating back to 1930 and located in the centre of Athens, the 5-star King George represents the absolute essence of a classic boutique hotel. Fascinating ancient meets impressive modern, as authentic antiques blend harmoniously with modern technology in the 63 guest rooms and 39 suites featuring exquisitely appointed marble bathrooms and boasting dramatic views of either the romantic Athens skyline or hotel atrium. A truly inspiring and gracious venue, King George is located within walking distance from the Acropolis, Agora, Plaka and Thission, upmarket boutiques, world-renowned museums, and the city’s vibrant business district.
www.kinggeorgeathens.com
Vas. Georgiou A’ Street 3, Athens 105 64
00 30 21 0322 2210
Grand Resort Lagonissi*****
Boasting twenty exclusive sandy beach coves and lush natural beauty this resort is nestled in a magnificent private peninsula offering breathtaking sunsets and views to inspire. All accommodations are on the waterfront with direct access to sandy beaches or to the sea; deluxe rooms with stunning sea views, bungalows with private pools, suites with gym quarters and villas with private spa areas. The latest in comfort of technology pervade every single room combined with sleek interiors creating an ambience of residential charm and unparallel beauty. Several excellent restaurants and bars and a Spa offering a complete range of services for body, mind and spirit.
www.lagonissiresort.gr
40th km Athens Sounion, Lagonissi Attica Athens 190 10
00 30 2291 076000
Athenaeum InterContinental Hotel*****
Located near the famed Parthenon, this award-winning five star hotel brings the history of Athens to your doorstep. Dining at Athenaeum InterContinental Athens offers a gourmet experience in Athens. The hotel’s signature rooftop Première Restaurant combines dramatic views of the Acropolis with upscale minimalist design, modern art and cuisine with a French touch. Cafezoe celebrates the best Modern Greek and international cuisine in an award-winning designer setting. Also a café, bistrot and bar as well as a spa and fitness centre.
www.ihg.com/intercontinental
Syngrou Avenue 89-93, Athens 117 45
00 30 21 0920 6000
Ava Hotel & Suites****
Ava Hotel & Suites offers spacious, self-catered accommodation with a private balcony or terrace designed to attract visitors seeking personalized care and ‘a home away from home’. Their individual interior layout and decoration gives each one of them a unique charm and personality. All suites are air-conditioned and soundproofed. Each has a fully equipped kitchenette, as well as a seating area with a 32” flat-screen TV. Free DVD library and wifi. Some of the suites enjoy stunning views of Hadrian Arch, Zeus Temple and the Acropolis.
www.avahotel.gr
Lysikratous 9-11, Athens 105 58, Greece
00 30 21 0325 9000
Plaka Hotel***
Hotel Plaka, three star, is an excellent choice for a demanding client, in a terrific location. Five minutes walk from Syntagma square. Acropolis, museums, Parliament, shopping area of Plaka and Ermou street, the Athans Cathedral are all on your door step from the hotel. You are really in the heart of Athens, in the best location. From the roof top you can enjoy a breathtaking view of Acropolis, and Plaka area. The hotel was renovated in 2011.
www.plakahotel.gr
7, Kapnikareas & Mitropoleos Street. GR 10556 Athens
30 210 322 2706
Bars/Nightclubs
Akrotiri Lounge
Seaside Club/Restaurant Akrotiri Lounge is a sophisticated and glamorous venue arranged around a floodlit swimming pool with ocean views. Akrotiri hosts unforgettable parties, while serving delectable dishes in a most pleasant environment. Situated on the coast of Agios Kosmas, Akrotiri restaurant offers Mediterranean cuisine and attracts a fashionable crowd. The resident djs play until the small hours with r& b music. An ideal choice for dining and dancing.
www.akrotirilounge.gr
Vassileos Georgiou Street, Aghios Kosmas, Kalamaki, Athens
00 30 210 985 91S47/9
Venue
Venue is one of the most successful clubs in the Athenian nightly entertainment, has linked its name with world impressive events and has been included repeatedly in the list of 50 best clubs in the world. Its recently renovated space which combines elegance with technology and art with quality will constitute the point of reference of the Athenian nightlife. Geometrical shapes, candle fountains with lava stones, next generation led roof screens, metallic dance podiums, as well as crystalline walls with violet twilight lighting, constitute some of the elements that make the place exceptional.
www.venue.com.gr
130 Pireos , Athens 11854
00 30 210 341 1410
The Island
For years now the Island has been the favourite entertainment spot for those looking for atmosphere, style and quality during the summer months in Athens, visited by local and foreign celebrities and personalities. The stunning natural beauty of the Island’s location and the exquisite décor make it unique. The club is visited by many well-known international personalities.
www.islandclubrestaurant.gr
27 km of Athens – Sounio Av., 16672, Varkiza, Athens Riviera
00 30 210 96 53 564
Alexander’s Bar
The beloved 18th century tapestry of Alexander the Great is the focal point of Hotel the Grande Bretagne’s fabled Alexander’s Bar. With its clubby atmosphere you will want to linger over a classic cocktail, a refined brandy, or an exquisite cognac. The authentic & rare 18th century tapestry, featuring Alexander the Great entering into Gaugamela, is a trademark fixture of the hotel, proudly hanged by the radiant wooden bar. Alexander’s bar was voted as the Best Hotel Bar in the world by Forbes magazine.
www.grandebretagne.gr
Hotel the Grande Bretagne
Syntagma Square, Athens 10564
00 30 210 333 0787
Galaxy
Enjoy stunning views of the ancient Acropolis under a spectacular canopy of stars at the rooftop Galaxy Restaurant & Bar. Chic and contemporary, Galaxy is a favorite hang-out among celebrities and guests at the Hilton Athens hotel. Early evening brings a cool, eclectic clientele, who sip cocktails and boutique-brand drinks while listening to hip music and enjoying the incredible views from the open-air terrace. Check out this stunning rooftop bar after dark, however, and you’ll see why Galaxy is one of Athens’ most fashionable destinations with stylish, comfortable surroundings and a vibrant, friendly ambience
www.hiltonathens.gr
Hilton Athens hotel
46 Vassilissis Sofias Avenue Athens, 11528, Greece
00 30 210 7281402
Brettos
Hundreds of colourful bottles and lights decorate the walls of Brettos, housed in an old Athenian mansion in the heart of Plaka; the oldest distillery in Athens, dating back to 1909 and the 2nd oldest in Europe. It still operates as a bar at this small, incredible beautiful, charming spot, serving visitors ouzo, brandy, more than 36 different flavours of liqueur, traditional Greek spirits, wines and beers. Today Brettos distillery and bar is considered to be among the landmarks of Plaka. The people behind the bar are always in good ‘spirits’, keeping up the tradition of this special place by creating a friendly mix with locals and travelers.
brettosplaka.com
Kidathineon 41, Plaka, Athens
00 30 210 323 2110
Shopping
Athens Central Market
Athens’ Central market on Athinas Street is a lively and bustling affair and is a must-see even if you you don’t need groceries as this is the place to experience the local Athens’ culture and life. Vendors are selling everything from fresh Aegean octopus, fish and meat, spices, olives, and cheeses. There are fabulous good food restaurants on the market which are also quite affordable. With its oriental ambiance it is no surprise that the market is also the portal to Athens Chinatown.
Athinas & Evripidou, Omonia Athens
Melissinos Art
Melissinos sandals are legendary stuff, worn by many celebrities including Sophia Loren and Jackie Onassis. In Lord Byron’s old Athenian neighborhood, in the vicinity of Prsyrri – adjacent to Monastiraki Square – there is a store where the ancient Greek spirit meets contemporary art & craft. There you can find Pantelis Melissinos’ art, sandals & jewellery. The range of Melissinos’ art varies from sketches and drawings to paintings on canvas or three-dimensional painted assemblages, jewelry, wearable art, poetry, plays, as well as set and costume design.
www.melissinos-art.com
Agias Theklas 2, Athens
00 30 21 0321 9247
Monastiraki Flea Market
Monastiraki is a flea market located on Avissynias Square in the old town of Athens in one of the city’s most popular shopping districts. Much of the flea market is rather a collection of small shops instead of a true market; clothing boutiques, souvenir shops, jewellers and specialty stores. The market takes place on Sundays when tables and rugs are laid out and stalls created for market vendors. The market has all kinds of things from antiques to paintings to small trinkets. Be sure to come early as from about 11am onwards the crowds become thick. There are many nice cafés and small restaurants to take a breather.
Avissynias Square, Athens
Golden Hall
Golden Hall is Athens most elegant shopping mall recognised worldwide for offering its visitors the highest standard of shopping. Spread over 3 levels and comprising over a 130 shops, top class restaurants, cafés and bars, Golden Hall is an award winning shopping complex and a great shopping experience.
www.goldenhall.gr
Leoforos Kifisias 37A, Marousi 15123
00 30 21 0680 3450
Attica
Attica is a one-stop-shop for designer brands in Athens and Thessaloniki. Attica offers complete sections of women’s, men’s and children’s fashion wear, footwear, beauty and accessories along with a wide range of excellent, personalized services. Built according to international standards, with unique window displays and an immaculate interior architecture, Attica is equivalent to the high-end aesthetics found in established department stores such as Harvey Nichols, Harrods, Galleries Lafayette, etc.
www.atticadps.gr
9 Panepistimiou St, 10564 Athens
00 30 211 180 2825
Culture/Leisure
Syntagma Square
Syntagma Square is a square located in central Athens and the scene for the Changing of the Guard. the Hellenic Parliament Building is located here as well as a fountain, ancient statues and two large grassy areas. It is the oldest and socially most important square of modern Athens, at the epicentre of commercial activity during the nineteenth century. Most major events that occur in Greece have been celebrated at the Syntagma Square. Many people come here to witness the Changing of the Guard by the Evzones in front of the Tomb of the Unknown Soldier.
Syntagma Square, Athens
Piraeus
Piraeus is the ancient port of Athens, dating back to the early 5th century BC, and still one of the largest in the world. Piraeus boasts scenic streets, open air Vaekeio Theater which hosts many of modern and folk concerts during the summer and a huge amusement park, Allou Fun Park. There are many tavernas and restaurants, renowned for their cuisine and many located on the coastline specializing in very affordable and great quality seafood. Piraeus is also home to several museums like the Archaeological Museum of Piraeus and the Hellenic Maritime Museum.
Piraeus, Athens
The National Garden
The National Garden is a public park in the heart of Athens with a duck pond, a Botanical Museum, a small cafe and a Children’s Library and playground. The Garden also encloses some ancient ruins, tambourines and Corinthian capitals of columns, mosaics, and busts of famous Greek personalities; politicians, poets and philosophers. It is located directly behind the Greek Parliament building (The Old Palace). The main entrance is on Leoforos Amalias and there are three other gates: one on Vasilissis Sophias Avenue, one on Herodou Attikou Street and one which connects the National Garden with the Zappeion park area.
Leoforos Amalias, Athens
Cape Sounion
Cape Sounion is located about 70 km south-east of Athens, at the southernmost tip of the Attica peninsula. Here you will find the ruins of an ancient Greek temple of Poseidon, the god of the sea in classical mythology. The site is a popular as a day-excursion from Athens, with many people going especially to sea the spectacular sunset over the Aegean Sea as well as visit the nearby beaches.
Cape Sounion
The National Archaeological Museum
The National Archaeological Museum of Athens is the largest archaeological museum in Greece and one of the most important museums in the world devoted to ancient Greek art. The most important museum in Greece was founded at the end of the 19th century to house and protect antiquities from all over Greece, thus displaying their historical, cultural and artistic value.
44 Patission Street, Athens 10682
Offices: 1 Tositsa Street, Athens 10682, Greece
00 30 213 214 4800 / 00 30 213 214 4890
The Acropolis and the Parthenon
The Acropolis of Athens is an ancient citadel located on the top of a rock formation overlooking Athens which contains remains of several old historic buildings including the famous Parthenon. The Parthenon is a temple dedicated to the goddess Athena, built between 447 BC and 438 BC, and it is the most important surviving building of Classical Greece. Its decorative sculptures are considered some of the high points of Greek art. The Acropolis is the preeminent monument on the European Cultural Heritage list of monuments.
The Acropolis and the Parthenon, Athens
Wellness
Hammam Baths
The Hammam Baths are a simple but modern space with respect to the tradition of hammam baths to convey an authentic experience and to restore the culture which was an integral part of life centuries ago. The Hammam Baths convey the atmosphere and magic of the oriental bath, with its imposing dome, round marble bench in the center and individual bowls, whilst all rooms are designed with respect for tradition yet adapted to modern life. Escape from everyday life, enjoy the thermal properties of steam, enjoy a deep exfoliation and a soothing massage.
hammam.gr
17 Agion Asomaton Str. & 1 Melidoni Str. Thissio, 10553 Athens
00 302103231073
Athens Fish Spa
At the Athens Fish Spa you can get delicate treatment by some very special experts; tiny little fish, but also traditional spa treatments such as massages, herbal sauna, hammam, waxing, scrub, mani- and pedicure. The fish pedicure is a treatment for the feet, where dozens of small fish exfoliate the dead cells of the skin. Among the massages on the menu: Thai Massage, Aroma Oil Massage, Reflexology.
www.athensfishspa.com
Aiolou 45, Athens 105 51
00 30 21 1800 3700
GB Spa
At the heart of the Hotel Grande Bretagne, the GB Spa delights the most discerning spa user with a fresh innovative approach to total well being. From ancient holistic rituals to the finest modern skin care, every regimen promises to indulge, soothe, and transform. There is a heated indoor pool whose design recalls the ancients baths of Rome, a modern gym featuring an extensive range of equipment and a Hair Spa Salon which is one of a select few in the world that offers customized and five stars spa treatments to improve the strength, health, and texture of your hair – elevating the salon experience to a decadent new level.
www.grandebretagne.gr
Hotel Grande Bretagne
Syntagma Square, Athens 10564
00 30 210 3330000
Petros Glyfada
Petros Glyfada is a luxury hair, nail and beauty salon located in an elite suburb of Athens, Glydada. The owner is famous Petros Kempisloglou, one of Greece’s most talented hairdressers counting many celebrities on his client list, who has been called “the best hairstylist in Hellenic Republic”.
www.petrosglyfada.gr
Kyprou 51, Glyfada, Athens, 16674
00 30 210 8945668
Michalis Anousakis Hair Salon
Michalis Anousakis Hair Salon awaits you for quality services in a luxurious atmosphere. In Michalis Anousakis Hair Salon Bar, you can find products from the Kérastase brand, which is affiliated with L’Oréal and essential in the world of professional hair care. The stylists will be at your disposal and will provide precise advice for your hair’s well being. Colour, highlights, cut or even makeover, they will adress your needs and bring your hair “back to life”. Products used in the salon contain high performing and innovative formulas that act in the long run while respecting your scalp.
michalisanousakis.com
N. Nikodimou 29 Athens 10558
00 30 210 3241020
Lekka 4, Athens 10558
00 30 210 3241793