Welcome to Kypseli. This neighbourhood, which had its golden age in the middle of the 20th century but is becoming the new Koukaki, is a place where you can almost see as many Africans (and immigrants from other places) as Greeks, and this has created a unique dynamic in the air. It's far from what is typically considered the pretty side of Athens, but the neighbourhood's namesake ('kypseli' means 'hive' in this context) seems more apt than ever.
If Kypseli is the Hive, Fokionos Negri St is the Hive's royal courtyard (just bare with me and my bee hive/palace analogy!) This pedestrian zone built in the '30s has lost much of its former glamour, but, when I went there for the first time (embarrassingly recently), I couldn't help but be completely taken aback by the large, ancient plane trees in the middle of it and the enchantingly relaxed atmosphere.
If Fokionos Negri is the Royal Chamber, SCRY Coffee Bar is the honey throne. I was first invited to this cafe/bar by a common friend (Panagiotis) I have with the owner, Vassilis. SCRY has been around since 2004 but very recently -and consciously- changed its whole philosophy: it is now a cozy third wave coffee bar, which means amazing single-origin brews by Caffe del Doge in a variety of impressive preparations. You've never had filter coffee taste this good.
Kypseli is worth a shot - and not just of the finest espresso.
Find your way with 263 Insider Tips from our Local Spotters
A well-cooked pita, a juicy burger, tomato, and onion are a unique and tasty combination. It is the epitome of delicious simplicity.
by
The flower bouquets are naturally dried and painted with water-soluble, non-toxic colors. The dried flowers can decorate a space for 1 to 2 years!
by
Namaste presents classic Indian cuisine enriched with the dishes of the unique mountain country of Nepal and the flavours are authentic and refined!
by
"Au Revoir" is, simply put, the oldest bar in Athens. It opened in 1958 and has been serving classic drinks since then. Even Frank Sinatra paid a visit.
by
"Babouras" Athens is a cafe/bar in Petralona that combines the old with the new. My tip would be to bring your camera with you - the light's very pretty.
by
The "Eugenides Digital Planetarium" (est. 2003) in Athens is a fantastic place to get to enjoy an educational spectacle! I have so many memories from here.
by
"Rema Pikrodafnis" is one of the few relatively untouched streams in Athens. I love this seemingly abandoned part of it, a symbol of what Greece really is.
by
"Alsos Neas Smyrnis" in Athens is my neighborhood park where I go to run. It's an ideal place to relax and enjoy a low-key Athenian park setting.
by
"Homesick" Athens is my go-to cafe/bar in Eksarheia when I want some retro decoration and a nice beer with hearty freebies. Don't miss talking to the owner!
by
It's at the perfect location, on a pedestrian zone close to this Athens' neighborhood, Nea Smyrni, central square, playing music and throwing parties.
by
263 Insider Tips from our local Spotters
Authentic Stories by Real People
Escape the Crowd & Travel Slow 🐌
✓ 0 Insider Tips from our local Spotters
✓ 263 Insider Tips