From ancient architecture withstanding the test of time, to modern elements adorning the cosmopolitan city, Athens is an aesthetic delight for design lovers. From where to stay to what to see, our Athens Design Guide offers an insiders perspective on things you don’t want to miss if you have an eye for design.
See
Acropolis Museum
15 Dionysiou Areopagitou Street, 11742 Athens
No Athens Design Guide is complete without a visit to the Acropolis. But after appreciating all of its glory, design lovers will especially appreciate this exquisite museum. By combining the best of modern architecture and ancient ruins, its an aesthetic treat. The original design is intended to mirror the temple itself, while offering visitors stunning views from its windows. General admission tickets cost €10 during the summer season, €5 during the winter season. In addition, special discounts are available for seniors, students and children!
Stavros Niarchos Foundation Cultural Center
Syggrou Avenue 364, 17674 Kallithea
Located in the south side of the city, this cultural center is breathtaking both inside and out. Completed in 2016, the sleek and modern design is a true masterpiece. First, a seemingly weightless 107,600-square foot canopy floats above the opera house as the main showstopper. Further inside, you’ll discover the National Library of Greece, the Greek National Opera, and the 42-acre Stavros Niarchos Park. Entrance is free, and walking tours are offered daily! However, bookings must be made in advance through the official website.
Design Plaza
Patmou 4, 15123 Maroussi
What appears to be an interior design store from the outside is actually one of Greece’s most prized museums for design lovers. Hailed as the center of design in Athens, the Design Museum of the 20th Century is sprawled across a 1200 square meter space. The museum houses collections of furniture, lights, and objects from leading designers from around the world. In addition, entrance is free for all visitors!
Street Art
The highlight of our Athens Design Guide just may be the eclectic street art! Take a walking tour to appreciate Athens’ fascinating street art! A local guide will take you on an insider’s journey to uncover the rich street-art culture. Street art is an important method of individual and collective expression – and the streets of Athens are vibrant and vocal!
Shop
Graffito
Solonos, 34, 10673 Athens
The first store of its kind in Athens, Graffito is well-known among Athenians and in-the-know tourists alike. Here, you can shop for quirky items from all over the world. From a sarong sourced from Indonesia to hand-crafted souvenirs from local artisans, you’re sure to find something that will delight you.
Paraphernalia
Ioannou Paparrigopoulou 15, 10561 Athens
Located a short walk from Syntagma Square, this quirky interior design store will make you lose track of time. Inside, you’ll find a carefully selected collection of items – from furniture pieces to lighting fixtures and even jewelry. And if your favorite piece is too big to fit in your suitcase – fear not – Paraphernalia also has an online shop with worldwide shipping!
Dine
Nolan
Voulis 33, 10557 Athens
If you’re looking for a unique dining experience, look no further than this trendy spot. Nolan’s minimalist design with a Scandinavian twist is a welcome sight in Athens, and the food doesn’t disappoint! The chef’s mixed Greek and Japanese heritage sprawls onto the menu options, transforming this tiny bistro into one of Athens’ most innovative Greek-Asian fusion cuisines.
Baba au rum
6 Klitiou, 10560 Athens
Athens isn’t just for history buffs: it’s also the perfect destination for those who appreciate a well-crafted cocktail. If you don’t know where to start, Baba au rum is arguably one of the finest rum bars in the world. Start with a Mai Tai or daiquiri before diving into their great rum collection. Then pair each sip with a piece of artisan chocolate to make the experience even sweeter.
Stay
Hotel Grande Bretagne
1 Vasileos Georgiou A, Syntagma Square Str, Athina
If you want to stay in the heart of the city, draped in exquisite design fit for royalty, look no further than the Hotel Grande Bretagne. Conveniently located just outside Syntagma Square and the Greek Parliament, you’ll wake up in pure luxury, perfectly situated for your next destination!
