It is said that Athens is one of the biggest cities in Europe without a river flowing through it. While not technically true, we Athenians really feel that way, and who can blame us? The few small rivers we do have long been hidden out of sight and forgotten.
Still, the river of Kifissos, or Cephessus, is Attica's longest river. Our country's passionate love of concrete and building where we shouldn't has led to the shaping of its riverbed to accommodate the modern urban sprawl of the 20th century. Such has been the fate of all of Athens' watercourses, with the handful of exceptions making interesting destinations (see Rema Pikrodafnis, Rema Chalandriou).
All in all, it is a sad state of affairs. But it is a truism about life that every cloud has a silver lining, and often enough, a barbaric defilement of natural landscapes results in the emergence of an interesting piece of urban environment. Case in point, this part close to the mouth of the river Kifisssos below the national highway.
I don't know why, I've always been attracted to underpasses. This one has plenty of little pedestrian bridges, and the concrete walls lining the artificial riverbank are decorated with this weird sort of random street art that looks like streaks of dry glue. I enjoy going for a run in this area, both across the river and parallel to it.
Urban explorers will find the whole area of Neo Faliro rewarding with its architectural curiosities.
Poseidonos Interchange
€
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Find your way with 263 Insider Tips from our Local Spotters
I've been here with friends and they've all been amazed at the low prices, cool vibe and '90s memorabilia. Even the cocktails are named after Pokemon!
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It's really close to both Akropoli and Syggrou-Fix metro station, it has a nice vibe, a great selection of Greek international dishes and large portions!
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Once you enter, you will be amazed by the Japanese-cool decoration, especially by the huge blue mural with the 3D elements and the pink circle.
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Although Kalos Aeras is located on a busy road, there is no noise penetrating the leafy veranda, and stepping into the house is like time-traveling back to the 60s.
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Plateia Proskopon is surely not as hip as Plateia Varnava or other spots in Pagrati but has a unique atmosphere.
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I just love the chocolate-covered nuts in 1001 Geyseis! I recently tried the cocoa-covered pecan nuts and hopefully one day I will try all the variety the store has to offer!
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Entering Agias Zonis is like getting into a literal comfort zone. Although it starts from the bustling pedestrian zone of Fokionos Negri, Agias Zonis is a well-kept secret.
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There are actually three falafel places located next to each other in Plateia Vathis (Vathis square). All three places are equally good, offering huge portions for a great price.
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Located on the top of Lycabettus hill, the highest spot of the city right in the center of Athens, it is a steep walk to reach Prasini Tenta, but just the view itself is worth the hike.
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After filling your basket with pickled mushrooms and the lavash puff bread, try the candy bars with the illustrated packaging reminding you of the Soviet Union days.
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"O Lefteris" in Athens makes souvlaki the way our fathers & grandfathers like them best: no gyros, no tzatziki, no fries; just meat, pita, tomato & onion.
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