Credit: Unsplash.com
The multi-cultural and vibrant city of Athens with millions of years of history on its back and an ever-evolving multi-shaped character is a popular vacation draw in the destination pot.
The Acropolis of Athens, the agoras, the temples and the numerous museums and other attractions have awarded this city with thousands of tourists daily, all of who crave to experience a small part of its magic.
A few know however that Athens is much, much more than just the Acropolis and the ancient ruins…
Between old buildings with bright graffiti, along quiet and narrow streets and safely tucked away, there is another facade of Athens, exciting, unusual and fascinating to the experienced traveller.
In this article we will delve into the more alternative side of Athens and the ways you can experience it like a true local with all the tips and tricks needed for a fun task such as that!
Written by Savina Skourmalla on 04-10-2023
Alternative Athens – Spend a day in Exarcheia neighborhood!
There are divided opinions when it comes to the neighbourhood of Exarcheia. Other people will tell you about all the nice shops and bars in the area and others will just try to talk you out of visiting. The main reason one would avoid Exarcheia is because it has a reputation for being the ‘anarchist’ and rebel area, the heart of all anti-capitalistic political and communal action. Even to some locals it’s an area considered ‘dangerous’ for random protest outbursts and conflict between civilians and the police.
Credit: Itanari.com
However, none of that should be of your concern as Exarcheia is a bustling local hub where students, artists and life philosophers meet to express themselves and exchange ideas.
As the main meeting place of open minded and hip people, Exarcheia is full of art, progress and life and it’s certainly the most alternative place you will find in the heart of Athens!
This bohemian and fascinating place spreads across a maze of old and new buildings, street art, little coffee shops and bars as well as second hard stores, parks and art galleries.
In almost every corner you will find bigger or smaller graffiti, most of each with strong political messages that give this area of Athens a more Berlin vibe.
Credit: Athensguide.com
Due to two major universities very close to the area, Exarcheia attracts a lot of youth so the numerous coffee shops and bars spread in the alleys and streets of the neighbourhood.
Early in the morning, locals will buy a delicious savoury pie or sandwich along with a coffee from Black Salami or Ariston before going to work or class.
For those that wish to enjoy a nice conversation with friends in the shade alongside a nice cold freddo espresso they can choose popular local coffee shops like Hasan, Blue Bear and Karagiozis.
When the night falls, Exarcheia really shines the brightest. Mavros Gatos and Alexandrino are only two of the many bars that are favoured by locals who,regardless of living in the area or not, will choose to spend their nights with a nice drink and alternative tunes, recorded or live. Once there you will not have to worry about time as these bars will stay open until the wee hours of the night.
Credit: Itanari.com
There is a very strong shopping culture in Exarcheia too. If you are into a more bohemian, planet friendly and alternative style you will find everything you need. Local artists sell their handmade clothing, jewellery and art at cheap prices for boho lovers and curious individuals.
In Exarcheia you will also find a lot of vintage bookstores as well as vinyl stores that will make collectors rub their hands in bliss. The record and vinyl variety is as diverse as music genres so it can satisfy even the most demanding collector.
Athens’ artistic vein pulses in Exarcheia, the area of the dreamers and the leftists and it’s one of the most interesting and unforgettable areas to visit while in Athens. You can reach Exarcheia on foot if you live close to the Syntagma area or simply take the metro and get off at the stop ‘Panepistimio’ which is a 3 minute walk away from the main area of Exarcheia.
Alternative Athens – Visit the local markets!
The local markets of Athens are the city’s beating heart. From fresh meat, fish and fruit as well as other Greek delicacies to vintage furniture, jewellery, clothing and other items, there is something for everyone who wishes to delve into this kind of experience. The Athenian markets play a vital role for the Greek community and lifestyle and its a cultural hub where one can see tradition and customs unfolding across the street stalls.
Credit:ThisisAthens.com
The Central Municipal Athens Market (or simply ‘Varvakeios’) is the most historical and important market in the city and a place that attracts both locals and tourists daily, except Sundays. If you have a sensitive nose you’d rather avoid this place as the scents and aromas of fresh fish, meat, herbs and spices will hit you like a hurricane! The market offers a wide variety of products by local professionals who are constantly in a civil ‘dispute’ regarding who’s the freshest and/or cheapest product. Make sure to arrive early in order to marvel and purchase all the ‘good stuff’ before the stalls empty. Don’t be mistaken by the cute old grandmas and grandpas shopping around in Varvakeios, they WILL fight you for the best piece of meat! The Varvakeios Agora is located between Monastiraki Square and Omonia Square and is easily accessible on foot. Don’t miss out on the well hidden tavern ‘Epirus’ that will serve you anything you are unable to wait and try while in the market!
Credit: Athens-touristic-information.com
Not far from the central market you can find the Monastiraki Flea Market, spreading across Ifaistou street and has..well..everything! This Flea Market is without a doubt the most popular (and touristy) market as one can find souvenirs, sandals, handmade bags and ornaments as well as records, books, paintings and all kinds of things. If you’re looking for a pretty souvenir to remind you of your vacation in Athens this is the place to be!
Between shops there are also many coffee and ice cream shops where you can catch a breath and relax between shopping and get a taste and scent of good Greek coffee!
Speaking of strong scents and spices, Evripidou Street Market will take you to exotic places and enchant all of your senses. This market is popular for everything ‘dried’, herbs and tea, as well as a variety of fresh nuts, cheese and delicatessen items and it’s basically an extension of the central market of Athens for those that are looking for that extra flavour.
Credit: Wikipedia.org
Laiki Agora is by far the most common weekly habit for most Athenian locals. It means ‘farmer’s market’ and it’s the best example of Greek life and cuisine. Every area and neighbourhood in Athens has a ‘Laiki Agora’ that runs once or twice a week from the morning until early in the afternoon. In the Laiki Agora, local farmers sell their product (mainly fruit,vegetables and fish) in lined up, colourful and vibrant stalls. The most famous Laiki Agora in Athens is the fresh market of Kallidromiou Street, one of the biggest markets of its kind in the city. The Laiki Agora is a vital part of Greek culture as it is famous for having the best and cheapest products anyone would need for their pantry and it’s an interesting experience of Athenian life and culture.
Alternative Athens – Hike mount Parnitha!
Around 40 minutes away from the city centre stands Mount Parnitha, a glorious natural park with immense greenery and views and wildlife. It’s crazy how a place like this exists so close to the concrete jungle of the metropolitan city but it’s true and that’s what makes Parnitha one of the most popular ‘short’ escapes for Athenians. Parnitha mountain expands at a 4000 square kilometre area and it peaks over 1000 metres high and that’s what makes it a popular destination for local and international hikers as well as there are many routes and well maintained paths that offer a pleasant and easy hike away from steep and inaccessible slopes and areas. During weekends one can find all sorts of visitors from hikers to cyclists and even younger people or families who simply wish to get away from the hustle of the city and explore nature.
Credit: Travel.gr
The landscape and surroundings of mount Parnitha are breathtaking and fascinating. There are over 1000 recorded species of plants in the forest as well as natural springs and flowers.
This natural park is also home to numerous species of animals and birds one can marvel at and photograph during a hike.
At the end of the tour make sure to visit Bafi Mountain Refuge where you can enjoy a coffee with the most amazing view, as well as snacks and homemade pies and other delicacies.
Alternative Athens – Athens by Bike!
Athens is a fascinating city full of things to see and do and unexplored corners and hidden spots that will blow your mind once you get to know them.
There is simply no better way to explore Athens than a unique and fun Athens City Bike tour.
During our 3 hour tour you will get to enjoy the best views and get acquainted with the city’s surroundings and best hidden secrets.
Our tour leaders are all experienced locals who are passionate about the city and have a lot of stories and tips to tell to anyone who is willing to experience Athens like a true local.
Some of the areas our bike tour covers are the National Observatory, Thissio and Kerameikos area, Monastiraki, the Ancient Agora, the Athens City Cathedral, Zappeio area, the Panathenaic stadium and more.
After the tour you will not only have the best overview of the totality of the city’s life, vibe and history, but you will also be equipped with everything you need to continue your adventure in Athens.
If you are opting for a more thorough experience you are free to join the only tour in Athens that combines a city bike tour with a guided tour of the Acropolis in our Acropolis Guided tour by Bike. Explore the city in the most fun way possible and enjoy a detailed historical tour of the Acropolis with a licensed guide.
For the adventurous ones, we also have a coastal bike tour and marvel at the beautiful Athenian riviera a little bit further from the city of Athens.
So if you find yourself in Athens this year or the next, do not hesitate to try these alternative ways to explore the city and immerse yourself in the city’s culture and life for a truly unforgettable experience in the Greek capital!
