Lately, I've been meaning to start writing SBL articles about my favourite neighbourhoods in Athens, not only about bars and restaurants -- articles about whole neighbourhoods where you can lose yourself wandering around their streets.
So this new project begins from my most favourite neighbourhood in the world: Koukaki! I was very lucky that for 2 years Dimitris and I lived there, and I enjoyed every single moment.
The area starts from Dionysiou Areopagitou, the pedestrian area below the Acropolis, and ends at the big street full of trees named Gennaiou Kolokotroni.
The whole area is lively from early in the morning, when old people take their Greek coffees at "kafeneia" at the pedestrian area of Drakou and G. Olympiou, until after midnight, at the lively rock bars that are spread all around.
Apart from the fact that is one of liveliest areas of Athens, I love the vibe that comes from Acropolis and Filopappou Hill, both of which overlook Koukaki.
Also, there are many cultural places like art shops such as Psit, small stores that sell ceramics like my favorite Trabala Studio, bicycle cafes like 48 x 17 stands next to famous restaurants, small restaurants where you can still find authentic Greek food like Koutoukaki - everything is tangled together between Veikou and Dimitrakopoulou streets.
In this colorful puzzle you can also add stray cats that are very friendly and... hungry!
Find your way with 262 Insider Tips from our Local Spotters
The house is known for the two wonderful Caryatid sculptures located on the balcony of its facade. The house was built in the late 19th century and is a typical example of Athenian neoclassicism.
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It does not matter what you order when you visit Mouries because everything is made with the same care (however, my favorite dish here is the meatballs).
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My favorite morning walk in the Monastiraki Flea Market always ends with a visit to Zaharias Records. Here I can browse a huge and ever-changing collection of second-hand vinyl records and CDs and always discover something to buy.
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And really, what to choose first? Takis Bakery produces every day thirty different types of bread, sandwiches, biscuits, pies, and sweets, in addition to the always fresh koulouri.
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Agios Ioannis of the Column is one of the most interesting hidden attractions in the center of Athens. The church was built in the 6th century AD, and its sanctuary was formed around an ancient Corinthian column.
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Street art has developed mainly in large urban centres, and Athens is no exception. The Psirri neighbourhood in the city centre is inextricably linked to the history of street art in Athens.
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Aside from the freshly ground coffee, which is either made on the spot or purchased in bulk to take home, you will find exceptional and always fresh nuts in sufficient variety.
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Many artists, musicians, actors, and painters have relocated to Mets, giving it a more bohemian feel. There are only a handful of shops, cafes, bars, and restaurants in the area, a fact that creates a more intimate and cosy atmosphere.
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Quality and unique materials, special and simple colors, fashion, and personal style are combined in a large collection of men's and women's hats.
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My favourite burger is the Bacon Mushroom Melt, and my favourite sandwich is the Tika, which is slightly spicy and causes a chain of flavour explosions!
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The unique pancakes at Buho (sweet and savory) are in my opinion, the best I have tried in the city and the menu has enough options to satisfy all tastes.
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262 Insider Tips from our local Spotters
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