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Tuesday, 02 December 2025 13:44

From Toronto To Athens: Elena Tzavara’s Journey With XpatAthens

By Maria Ermides

~ It’s 2004, and Athens is alive with the energy of the Olympics. Stadiums are rising, the city is being “cleaned up”, and for Elena, director at XpatAthens, a lifelong dream of making Greece her home is just beginning.

Today, many know XpatAthens as the go-to-place for navigating life in the city and beyond. But its origin story is far from linear, marked by unexpected twists and turns, from the excitement of the early days of the .com buzz to the turbulence of the financial crisis.

Usually working behind the scenes, Elena stepped into the spotlight for this interview to share, in her own words, the challenges and triumphs of building a platform driven by passion and a whole lot of trust. We’ll also delve into the future of XpatAthens and what’s to come!

Why and what brought you to Athens?

I grew up in Toronto, Canada. Greek dad, Canadian mom, and coming to Greece in the summer was part of our life.

We grew up culturally very Greek. Even my mom identifies very much as a Greek. And at a young age, as a teenager, I had decided one summer, yeah, I'm gonna live here.

And it became a reality right after university. Literally the day after I graduated, I was on a plane — I said: Okay, see you later, Mom. I'll be in Greece!

Was there a feeling about Greece before that?

Yeah, totally. The decision to move was probably when I was about 15, the feeling of knowing that I was gonna go. It was a very distinct summer—I remember returning to Toronto and spending weeks crying, saying, ‘I just want to go back, I just want to go back.

And then during university, I had done a program in Italy, and I remember there was a distinct moment that I said to myself, okay, I'm doing this. I absolutely remember all of it. I was in Siena, I was in the city and I was alone. I had gone for a walk and it was a moment of...oh man, I just need to live in this. This is how I wanna feel all the time! But I didn't want to live in Italy, I knew that I wanted to live in Greece, but it was Europe. It was that connection with the energy of things, let's say, very different to where I grew up. So yeah, there were distinct moments.

How did your family feel about you going?

My mom always said she knew that she’d lose one of her three children to Greece. She said she just didn't know which one it would be! And she was always supportive.

Of course, she made sure that I had a degree, that I had something lined up professionally. She created the support network around it so I could fall back on something if I needed to.

My dad—he was supportive. He was always one foot in Canada, one foot in Greece. When he left, he left with the intention of coming back. And so, my dad, he questioned it more so, I think, than my mom did. But generally he was ok with it too.

On arriving in 2004

Greece was always home. Not Athens, but my dad's village, and all of my extended family was here. So it was very comfortable for me.

There wasn't a shock. I came during the summer and I just never left—which was a dream come true. Because every summer I would leave, and be sad to leave, crying on the way back on the airplane. It feels like a lifetime ago. But it was a very distinct time. I was young, so I feel like it was another lifetime ago because I was in my 20s. At the time, I was just feeling high on life—you know, I was so excited to be here. I was so happy that I finally got to live in Greece. Oh, my God!

What was Athens like back then and has it changed?

The thing is, Athens has a very distinct energy, so it always feels alive. It's what makes us love it—love being here. It's what has made us want to move here. In my case, anyway.

Has it changed? Yes. But without teetering. It's still has the same energy at its core. But let's say the dynamic of the collective—what's going on around you, what we see, the people that are here, what's happening—yes, it's definitely different.

How did it feel?

It was what I always wanted to be doing, so it just felt really normal. I adjusted right away, and I was happy that I wasn't leaving to go on an airplane back to Toronto.

I was fortunate in that way because I came with a community in place. I had family—and that's huge. And I also had friends. All of my friends from university—we all moved back to Greece! So that wasn't challenging. Like I said, I just slipped right in.

What did work look like for you?

I was kind of winging it for a while—although I wasn’t telling my parents that…

No, I wasn't spending all my time on the beach—not just floating around. I looked for job opportunities that required English. I spoke Greek, but not to the level of my English.

I grew up in a family business, and I've had an entrepreneurial bug since I was a teenager, maybe even younger than that. In addition to this, my work experience until this point was in luxury retail sales, so I had a really good work experience for my age.

I ended up getting a management position in retail for a British company at the time, at the Athens Airport. And it was a great experience. But life took me back to Toronto, and I stayed until 2006. As of 2006, I was back in Greece permanently.

So then, I applied for a job—totally out of my industry—in travel. It was a startup at the time. It was incoming luxury travel from the U.S., so all of the work was in English. I could speak the language of the luxury world; it was a young startup with a Greek that had studied in the U.S., who had recently repatriated. We jived, and it worked. I was there for close to 10 years. I was head of sales for several years, then I went into product development, and we expanded into a few different markets in the time that I was with the company.

athens light the future golden era copy

Courtesty of @chromecabrio

The beginning of XpatAthens

XpatAthens came into my life in 2012. I was at the travel company and pregnant with my first child, which is a whole new phase of life. I say that it came in like I was standing at the right corner at the right time. XpatAthens just kinda showed up. There was a “for sale” sign on the website. My brother happened to be following the website. I didn’t really follow it at the time. And he sent it to me and said, “Call them.” And so I did, I called!

The gentleman who started the website was British, and had decided to leave Greece (the early signs of the economic crisis were over the horizon). At the time, it was a really great blog. Maybe even one of the first websites that spoke English in Greece. Imagine many of us were still using dial-up internet. You know, the kind we used to connect the cord to the wall for!? Websites were not very common in Greece, let alone ones that were in English.

Anyway, three friends picked it up at the time, so we went into a partnership. Within two years, it was just me running the show. I’m still very good friends with the other two, but life just… you know, it unfolds and we go in different directions.

The content landscape at the time

I was doing XpatAthens alongside my full-time job in travel. There was some knowledge crossover—I knew things from my day-to-day work, and then I would talk about them on XpatAthens; writing content and creating newsletters.

At the time, experiences were a big thing. It was an up and coming trend—walking tours and food tours were really new. Boutique hotels were on the rise, and new restaurants were opening too. It was a very different landscape to what it is now. There were very few resources giving recommendations, especially in English. I remember writing about the first sushi place that opened up, and the first wine bar. Now there are too many to count. It was a very different time.

So this (English) content was very rich and much needed for locals and internationals and travellers alike. It was very valuable information, people loved it as did Google! I always say that XpatAthens was like getting a degree in digital marketing and content, and maybe even a master’s in how to survive the worst of the worst. I learned how to build websites, create digital content; also things like search engine optimization, the importance of keywords, mass content audits, communication channels, branding, all of that sort of thing. And actually XpatAthens has grown today without a marketing budget (we never had the money). This platform has grown totally organically.

Transforming it into something bigger

Because I really love unfolding vision, I thought—okay, what am I going to do with this really great platform? Step by step I started to turn this great blog into something more. I ended up rebranding (not a name change, but a completely new look and feel); changed the website, and started slowly building some service around it. Soon it was more than just a really great blog—it started to become a community resource that people depended on.

At the time, the most logical place for revenue was advertising. Except that we were just at the beginning of the crisis. And what was the first thing that people cut out of their budgets? Yep, advertising. So XpatAthens quickly went from high potential to hanging on from a thread. Money was the biggest challenge along the way for XpatAthens. Everything was always run on a shoestring, and actually I usually say a thread-string budget. Because really, based on what was happening around us—it was just not the right time. Technically, XpatAthens really shouldn’t have survived. Young mom, full-time job, crisis, and no money—it was a recipe for closure.

The Financial Crisis Hits

Well, it wasn’t just Greece—it was a global financial crisis. Here, it got really messy in 2015. We got the tail end of it, but it hit with a vengeance. The crisis really hit hard.

It was a very different time of life, and it lasted for several years. A lot of unemployment and civil unrest. Every single person was affected. Take the example of capital controls—we all went to the ATMs, and no one could get money—every single person was affected.

XpatAthens was a big part of my life at that time.

To Stay or Leave Greece?

I remember I was on a flight to Toronto on the morning when the capital controls came into effect—we couldn’t access money. Everything was being restricted. Something had also happened with the XpatAthens website, and I was on the phone with my developers. I’ll never forget it—I was checking-in my luggage, couldn’t access money, problems with XpatAthens, and there was a distinct moment of ‘oh boy, are we going to stay here like this?’

I knew I wanted my life here in Greece, there was no question that this is where I wanted to be. I also felt very fortunate about having a choice—we could leave if we wanted (or needed) to. We always had Canada to go to, and this was huge. But aside from that, we also had our villages to go to, too if we needed—and I say “we,” because it was my husband and I, and our young son at the time. (There are now four of us, I had two kids along the way.)

So essentially we were pushed to the point of asking ourselves: Okay, what if we have absolutely nothing? What do we do? Where do we live and raise our family? Both of the companies we were working for had already downsized, we both had our salaries cut; not just us, this was a reality for everyone in Greece. And we were among the lucky ones who still had jobs that were able to pay us.

So what's the next step after that? Unemployment. And does the government even have money to pay unemployment? Who knows. So we actually asked ourselves: Where's the best place to be poor - Canada or Greece?

And we decided that it was in one of our villages in Greece, and actually my husband’s village because we could live off the land if it came to not having money for food. Thankfully it never came to this. Thankfully we had options. But we made it work — on threads for a good couple years — but we made it through. Just like all of our friends and family did too. This period of life was really a testament to the resilience of the Greeks and how they somehow pull through in the toughest of times.

Fueled by passion (and perseverance)

For me, XpatAthens was always more than a passion project; I felt the connection with the community, I knew the content touched lives and this meant something for me. My income continued to come from elsewhere, and I’d say that XpatAthens was my creative outlet. Because I could write, it kept me intrigued, and there was always a sense of purpose.

During the crisis, we started to write about very practical things like capital controls, what to do with your money—we created content around the landscape of what was happening. Somewhere around 2019, things got better.

As we were climbing out of the crisis, COVID hit. We were just starting to see light at the end of the crisis tunnel. Travel was getting back on track, and people were starting to feel like there was a little bit of money moving around again. But we were all still very cautious.

And just as we were starting to breathe again, news reports of COVID began. And we all know what that meant. Downscale and pull out the ‘budget strategy called threads’ again.

Surviving the pandemic and learning to trust

The one thing that has always been consistent with XpatAthens is that I always kept it digitally healthy. It was always very well kept, plus we had great developers.

And so, the money was not always there, but it was always a platform that—I knew, there was always a very deep knowing—there’s a reason why it’s here. I just couldn’t say ‘XpatAthens is no more’. It was such a well followed website, people trusted us, it felt like we were holding each other’s hands in some funny way.

So you can imagine how many times my husband, my family, my friends, and even I would say: Why are you doing this? What’s the point Elena? It’s these ‘why questions’ that send you soul-searching, you really go deep. And so I questioned absolutely everything.

On trying to let it go

As you can imagine, it became an emotional journey. I didn’t want to ‘give up’, I wanted to survive. I wanted it to live and grow into its full potential. It was really less about how long it had taken to grow or how many hours of work I’d put in. It was always more of this ‘core feeling’ — this is too important of a resource, we’re a community of people.

Not to mention that the traffic was still good. Like I said, it was digitally healthy. It was a digital garden, it was a home. And it just didn't make sense to just turn off the lights in this home.

Interestingly enough, over the span of 13 years, I’ve tried to sell. I’ve even tried to gift it away. All very interesting experiences. Each one of those times taught me something new (about myself). This all became a very personal story. XpatAthens has been a pivotal part of my personal growth, and professional development. I wouldn’t have the business I have now if it weren’t for XpatAthens.

I learned so much about the digital world. I learned so much about content. I learned so much about me. It was learn-as-you-go. I didn’t know how to upload content. Sure, I was a good editor and copywriter, but XpatAthens taught me how to do everything. It’s been a personal and professional development school.

When to pause and allow the necessary shift

There’s always been vision—remember I love unfolding vision. But there’s also been so, so much shift and change—for me personally, but also on the collective scale. The landscape of things has really shifted. To be totally honest, I got tired (even exhausted). So I did step away for a little while. I decided, okay, I’ll keep XpatAthens healthy (but quiet for a little bit), and I’ll focus on my other business. I needed to detach. To completely detach my own stories, to completely detach my emotional connection. To see where I was misaligned; to feel exactly what was ‘me’ and what wasn’t.

It was important to do this because XpatAthens always felt larger than me; I always felt a bigger purpose of things. And so I knew this was not my startup. This is not my little side hustle. It’s not my main business. It was all of those at certain stages, plus all of the learnings that came with it all.

And so, that’s what I did for over a year. I paused and allowed the shift. Get clarity and align with true purpose. And then, somewhere around the end of 2024, I started slowly reconnecting again. I had to cut it off in order to reconnect. To feel it out. I knew there was something there, but I couldn’t see it. I had lost my ‘visionary senses’. It’s important to note here that I had a team member to keep the platform alive, without Angeliki XpatAthens would have died, and I would not have been able to take the time I needed to detach and regroup.

On paving a new path forward

Step by step 2025 has been about slowly reconnecting with the landscape of things. Now, post-COVID, there were things called the digital nomad visas and co-working spaces. These didn’t exist before. And, of course, we’ve all gotten to the point where we have 5G on our phones (we’re no longer dialing up)! It’s a very different landscape now.

We’ve put ourselves back on the map again. For a while, it felt like we were a sailboat just coasting in calm, peaceful waters. And now, we’ve really been active in sharing and telling stories again.

It’s ‘bigger than just me’ and the future of XpatAthens

I never felt XpatAthens as a traditional business. It wasn’t a cool new startup or a side hustle. There has always been a strong following (we continue to have 200–500 visitors daily), and we still haven’t paid a cent for marketing (yes we’re still growing organically)! People arrive at the website because they find it useful, because they’re enjoying it. This is what has always been important to me.

Also, it’s always been far more than trying to find money to pay the bills—sure that’s been part of the journey. But the community, meeting people, knowing that someone is actually sitting down with their coffee and reading it. We’re speaking to people and touching their lives in a way. XpatAthens continues to speak to this international community of people, and their needs have really shifted post-COVID. Property needs have shifted, legal needs have shifted, accounting needs have shifted—and of course we all have unique individual needs too.

We’ve created a lot of content in the last months around these very practical needs. And now we’re starting to develop that content into more storytelling—the stuff that we really love!

There’s a new dynamic of energy that’s unfolding. So we’re following, listening and connecting — first with ourselves and then with each other — but really also allowing the unfolding of a new story without pressure, and without ‘you have to do something with this.’

What does this mean for the future of XpatAthens? Today we are a Greek non profit organization called ΟΛΟΙ ΜΑΣ ΟΝΕ (meaning we are all one in Greek) and we’re super excited about telling Greek stories, personal stories, cultural stories... all of the stuff that gives you goosebumps. All of the great stuff that we love about living here. All of the great reasons why our international community chooses to make a life here. Because we love this beautiful country wholeheartedly. We’re letting things happen, one step at a time.

Part of that growth is the arrival of Wellness Hub Greece as part of our non profit organization; it will be ready this December, and we’ve already introduced it on XpatAthens. This new communication and community platform is born from a deep passion for human wellbeing. WHG will be a digital space for Greece's wellness community; serving as a communication tool for the industry overall (who's doing what and where in Greece), while also a place where anyone can explore curated wellness experiences in Greece - from practitioners and retreats to workshops and tools designed to support a more balanced life.

And as we continue to grow and share the best parts of Greece, there are ways support our work, even little gestures help us to keep this community alive. There are also ways to share your offerings on our platforms, and we are most grateful for corporate sponsorships too!

How the journey has shifted since arriving in Greece

In a span of 20 years—it’s a lifetime—so much has shifted collectively, let alone in my personal world. I went from moving to Greece as a 20-something, super excited about life, and completely carefree. And then once you start to have responsibilities, rent to pay, children—life gets serious, in a sense. And that’s the space I’m in at the moment: I’m learning how to have fun, feel lighter, and truly savour where I am.

It’s always been fun, but just in a different way. Every phase has been different. Becoming a mom is a whole period of time. At least for me it was. Having infants is very different from having toddlers. And that’s very different from having a teenager. So at every stage, I’m learning a new me. There’s constant adjustment and constant growth. Am I the same person? No—but yes.

Greece is such a special place on Earth. There’s so much that’s wonderful about it. And there’s also so much that’s not exactly ideal, or things that are unexplainable, or simply don't make sense. We joke about this all the time—in the span of one day, you can feel every single emotion there is, just by walking down the street. It’s incredible. But that, in itself, is amazing. It is as it is, real, raw and perfectly human. And this is why we love it.

A Message To Our Readers

XpatAthens has always grown through real stories and real connections, so we’d love to hear from you too. If you ever feel called to share your own experience or simply reach out, you can get in touch with us here. Conversation has always been part of the heart of this community.

Many of the insights that guided the evolution of XpatAthens — the inner clarity, the purpose-work, the storytelling — are part of Innerbloom. It’s a space dedicated to helping people and brands find their voice, refine their story, and feel more aligned with the work they’re putting into the world. If you’re curious, you can explore more at: www.innerbloom.gr

Published in Local Voices

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Monday, 01 December 2025 16:35

FokiaNou Art Space Presents Athens under Pressure

Opening: 3 December 2025, 18:00
Hours: Wednesday – Saturday, 17:00 – 20:00

Athens is changing. The climate crisis, drought, fires and tree diseases are transforming the city and its natural environment. Palm trees, plane trees, mulberries, pines and cypresses are disappearing, while heat and drought are becoming the new normal. At the same time, overtourism and relentless urban development are putting additional pressure on the already burdened urban fabric.The city is drowning under the volume of visitors, the neighborhoods are changing character, the residents are being displaced, while new apartment buildings and hotel complexes are springing up in every corner of the basin, covering every trace of free land.

Stella Sevastopoulos

The group exhibition "Athens under Pressure"emerged from an open to artists of all media, inviting them to respond creatively to this theme. The invitation served as a stimulus for a collective artistic dialogue around the city and its shifts, environmental, social, spatial, psychological. The exhibition invites the public to ask themselves: How do the climate crisis, overtourism and the building boom affect our lives, everyday life, psychology and our shared experience of Athens? Can art speak to what we live? With works that record, comment, resist or envision, “Athens Under Pressure” brings together multiple perspectives on a city at a critical crossroads, a city that is changing faster than we can comprehend.

Curated by: Mary Cox and Panagiotis Voulgaris

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Participating artists: John Bicknell, Lorenz Bögle, Fenia Chatzimichail, Mary Cox, Panagiotis Ferentinos, Katerina Genidogan, Mark Hadjipateras, Marietta Kallona, Vassilis Kantas, Vani Koronaki, Maria Claudia Litsas, Xenia Marlitsi, Camille Marquand, Christos Movidis, Maria Oikonomopoulou, Despoina Pantazi, Gabriela Papaefthimiou, Basilios Papaioannou, Lena Papapanagiotou, Eleni Papanikolaou, Jyri Pitkänen, Geeta Roopnarine, Efi Seitanidou, Stella Sevastopoulos, Vasiliki Stasinaki, Paraskevi Stathaki, Georgia Touliatou, Lisa Waldner, Piyi Wong, Constantina Xalkia, Kiveli Zachariou

FokiaNou Art Space is a dynamic contemporary art venue that fosters collaboration between Greek and international artists, actively contributing to the local art scene. In 2024 it celebrated ten years of creative activity, marking a decade of exhibitions, projects, and collaborations. Since 2016, under the curatorship of artists Mary Cox and Panagiotis Voulgaris the space has hosted more than 70 group, interdisciplinary, and solo exhibitions, as well as workshops and talks, maintaining its role as a vibrant and open platform for artistic expression. The international presence of FokiaNou Art Space has been strengthened through its participation in significant cultural events, including its recent involvement in the TRYST Art Fair at the Torrance Art Museum in Los Angeles, the Athena exhibition in Karlsruhe, Germany, held in May 2025, as well as its participation in the SuperMarket Independent Art Fair in Stockholm in 2023 and 2019. Through these initiatives, FokiaNou promotes meaningful connections among independent art spaces and supports the development of a broader international network of artistic collaboration.

Published in Events In Athens

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Monday, 01 December 2025 16:23

MONA MARCHÉ VOL IV. - A Pop-up Holiday Market

House of Shila’s most anticipated Christmas Market is back this December for its 4th Year, bridging creativity, community, and commerce.

MONA’S MARCHÉ, a signature Pop-Up Holiday gathering showcasing a handpicked selection of 25 creators in art, craft, culture, and gastronomy; transforming Mona into an immersive 48-hour celebration of the Athenian cultural landscape. Returning for its fourth edition and celebrating the anniversary of the House of Shila’s online store. MARCHÉ showcases the creative vision, continual evolution, and the heart of House of Shila.

R1 07427 0003 by Nikoletta Zafiri 2

MONA’S MARCHÉ presents a distinguished array of local and international artists, designers, and tastemakers, featuring a variety of ceramics, textiles, artworks, garments, jewellery, floral installations, and cultural publications, forming a cultivated Holiday Gift Guide.

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Staged within MONA’s 1950s Living Room and Underground Club, in the vibrant Psirri district, the event invites guests to immerse into a meticulously curated world of discovery on the weekend of 13th and 14th December. Offering the chance to acquire limited-edition holiday gifts. It serves as a refined forum where creatives convene and exchange ideas.

The weekend’s culinary experience, curated by Akra Athens, features exquisite treats, alongside a selection of their renowned signature bites. Minu Athens for a warm interlude. Jason Ligas curates a carefully selected range of characterful, low-intervention natural wines.

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See below for the full list of all the participants:

PARTICIPANTS

IRINI KARAYANNOPOULOU

Guests will meet and experience the artists in person, exploring the stories behind their creations, all while moving to transcendent soundscapes that traverse genres. The sets will be masterfully curated by Homcore, Athens’ cult record boutique, orchestrating the musical journey throughout the weekend. Rare LPs and EPs will be available for purchase.

Alexandra Koumantaki 61320002

For those wishing to glimpse beyond the veil, MONA’S MARCHÉ will host intimate tarot readings by Always The Moon Tarot, providing guests with a private moment of revelation, and perhaps a subtle nudge from the universe.

A dedicated art gallery corner, curated by the House of Shila Interior Design Team, will present a selection from our esteemed art collection, offering a sophisticated alternative for those seeking a truly remarkable Christmas gift.

HOS Members get exclusive discounts on purchases. Apply here.

Published in Events In Athens

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Monday, 01 December 2025 15:57

The Meet Market Xmas Edition - 10 Days Of Christmas

200+ #madeinGreece brands
10 days in a row, Friday 12 - Sunday 21 December, Weekdays 17:00 – 22:00 & Weekends 12:00 – 22:00
2 LineUps of makers
1 big Christmas celebration

The holidays are calling and so is Athen’s beloved pop-up market, back for another yuletide celebration full of shopping, music, food, and Christmas vibes.

The Meet Market #ChristmasEdition 2025 opens its doors once again at the Old Depot of O.S.Y. in Gazi for 10 straight days, from Friday, December 12 to Sunday, December 21, inviting us all to dive into the most festive ten days of the year.

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Two lineups = double the festive fun!

Over 200 #MadeInGreece brands will take over the space in two amazing lineups across the 10 days — featuring designers and makers you already know and love, plus 30+ fresh new artists showing their creations for the very first time.

The first lineup will be there from December 12 to 14, while the second takes over from December 15 to 21. That means… two Meet Markets in one — with even more creators, fresh ideas, and unique gifts for everyone. So, if you love discovering one-of-a-kind products, you’ll definitely want to visit both! AND, entry is free, so don’t think twice!

Christmas in the heart of Athens ✨

The city lights up, the air smells like holiday spices,, and the Old Depot in Gazi transforms into the coziest festive hub. Browse beautifully designed clothes, statement accessories, handmade jewelry, unique home décor, natural beauty and wellness products, Greek gourmet treats, handpicked kids’ items, and so much more. You can even make your own DIY ornament — the perfect keepsake or gift. Check our program for details.

LINEUP 1 & 2

Hand-Designer Clothes:

12 - 14 /12

Aelia.You, Be Strong by mo, Breath Clo., Circle of Karma, eek, Galiadra_p, Hazelnut Streetwear, Line of View, Local Mentality, Marsel Creations, ΜΠΛΑΝΚ!, nik’s, Razzmatazz, Stichting Movement on the Ground, Siel, The Lost Kids, Underthesun_Tailormade

15 - 21/12

Bakayaro, Cinderella Secondhand, Elli Papadaki, Funny Radical Acne Scars, Hit the Road, Kado Handmade, NIATA, OINOVERSE - A WINE ODYSSEY, Ovary Gang, Σπαραγουάη, sTeehos

Kids, Toys & Pets:

12 - 14 /12

amilima, Antalou, KYON Natural Pet Products, Lemon Dreamz, Mamma Cavolfiore, No Milk Today, NOKNOK, puzzleit.gr, Ταξιδεύοντας με τη Σουρίκο, The Hippo & The Donkey, Two Glittery Pitayas, Zikos Pet Accessoires

15 - 21/12

Aeikiniton, ΕΚΔΟΣΕΙΣ ΠΟΥΑ, Funky Little Stuff, Happy Button, Koka Handmade, Mamuka, Minibox, PeraPlekei, Pitsy Ricky

Accessories:

12 - 14 /12

ALEF, Anakata Handmade, BiWood Handmade, Cool Crips, Favlos Kyklos, Lilia In Love, MoMo Handcrafted, Ode to Socks, The Ink Job, Think Bricks, The Meet Market merch

15 - 21/12

Curly Mary, I Love Bows, Gift in a Box, KALTSA ΣΟΚ, MOLKANO, Ode to Socks, Théla, The Feeddogs, The Mpini Project, THEARTIKOSHOP, The Meet Market merch

Accessories

Jewelry:

12 - 14 /12

alandrastudio, Argiro handmade projects, BSOD, C.Karakalpaki, Chrisapiti, Evi Apostolou Jewellery, Gooskoo, HERA FRANKA, Ilianne Jewelry, Irini Kutiva Ceramics, j.a.m., Lekky's handmade Multiverse, Lina Goltsios Jewellery, Loveisall.store, Lyxnari Jewelry, Matharia jewelry, MGeometric Designs, Mosaic Beadwork, muki, NOXPIRIA, Penny’s Crafts, Red Fox Stories

15 - 21/12

Αιθηρ Jewelry, Diesblon, Blue Margarita, Cerabow, Denada, Eros Y Alma, Giraffe, If Project, illimite Jewellery, Kilimi Jewellery, Kyma Jewelry, La Lupa Designs, lena_yarnover, Lussu Marso, Macramoon, Mademoiselle, Myrtilo, Minalard jewelry, Pink Geek, Proof of Concept, Sisyphus, Tortora Studio, Xoutou’s

Jewlery

Mind, Body & Soul:

12 - 14 /12

CalliopeShop, Candlelena, Christies Cosmetics, ENA KARO, Ethra Essentials, KALYKA, Λασκάρω candles, Natural Soy Candles, Nymfes Cosmetics, Soap n Goods, Zest Natural Cosmetics

15 - 21/12

Aethereal Candles, Bee Naturalles, Better Be Candles, CandleMaker, Helleo, Ichnos Soap, Lavandula, Myrtia Natural Cosmetics, The Soaphouse, To Bee or Not to Bee, Too Hot to Candle, Valsamon

Art, Books, Objects & Home Deco:

12 - 14 /12

AZCreativeStudio, Babooska, Betty and Clay, Brick Home Studio, Danaismouart x Labeldone, GullmaiCeramics, Inlenso Photography, Itspopiz, Loupes Printing, Mrs. Dalloways, Somanyblobs, Myruggedbox, Plant Stories, The Couple Game, The Greener Pastures, Sundy Designs, Tortuguita Crafts, Urban Muses, vigilstreet, Village Tree Ceramics

15 - 21/12

Aethereal Ceramics, Atlas Unreal Collage, Bok Choy Athens, CactusDNA, Curious Attic, Elina Mavrommati, EleniPal Ceramics, Evie On Off, ΦΙΛ ΜΙ, HÀRA ceramics, Ioulia Geraskli Ceramic Lab, KAOLIN Contemporary Ceramics, Little Stone Studio, Madame Ginger, Made by Tifi, Moka Candles, Marlo Ceramics, PREPACK Art, Redy., ΠΟΛΥ ΚΟΥΛ, Signature Project, Theta for Ceramics, Tiny Truths, ΧΕΙΡΟΠΛΑΘΙ, Vintage Trip

Home Deco 2

Tasting Corner:

12 - 14 /12

Αγρόκτημα Δρόσου, ΑΝΑΓΝΟΥ ΖΥΜΑΡΙΚΑ, Angeliki Tsoukala Brand, ΑΣΤΙΚΗ ΜΕΛΙΣΣΑ, Αχταρμάς, ERMIONIS, Grizo & Prasino, Phil’s Granola, WOWCHI

15 - 21/12

Aithra Spirits, Άγρια Νομή, ΓΕΥΣΕΙΣ ΝΙΚΕΖΗ, Οικογένεια Δασκαλάκη, Kakau Worship, Penelope’s Marmalade

Tating Corner

Street Food, Coffee & Drinks:

12 - 12 /12

Falafeladiko, Grapestore, Holy Ginger, Hurry Up, Kukuowl, Kykao Handcrafted, Main Squeeze, Pizza Dough! & fysika, rubik’s laboratoire, TAOS Brewing, Taqueria El Primo, Tarantino burgers, The Meet Market Bar, Τσίμπι τσίμπι by VeganBeat (plus 12 - 14 /12! Alu Beer & Strange Brew and 15 - 21/12! 608 BrewingCo. & Sourmena Brew)

Drinks

LIVE LOVE LOCAL ❤️

Come one, come all! Lets all gather under one big urban roof, in a warm and festive atmosphere, for a mix of shopping, music, meeting, mingling, and creative experiences!

Our DJs will be spinning back-to-back sets, while the program is packed with unique activities for both kids and adults - all free of charge.

As always, a stop by the Central Info Point gives you the chance to enter the Big Raffle and win one of four huge gift baskets filled with products from all our amazing exhibitors.

Come support the local creative legends keeping Athens (and all over Greece) alive and thriving.

Published in Events In Athens

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Thursday, 27 November 2025 13:09

Jerome Kaluta At Alsos Theatre

Two nights filled with exceptional performances, musical encounters, and surprises are coming to the Alsos DEI Theater, transforming it into Athens’ most funky hotspot!

Anyone who has attended a live show by Jerome Kaluta knows that the experience is truly unique! From the Blues Brothers to Papa Wemba, and from Aretha Franklin to James Brown, his shows blend danceable hits that have marked our most memorable moments.

This December, for two Thursdays, two generations and two musical styles come together in a unique live show that fuses Funk, Disco, 70’s glam, and Pop, mixing international classics with timeless Greek hits and modern covers.

Special guests will take the stage for unexpected duets on Thursday, December 4 and 11!

Thursday, December 4: Mando, with her legendary voice and unforgettable hits, and the dynamic Antonia Kaouri, known from The Voice of Greece and the Coldplay opening, bring their pop-electronic energy into the funky Afrogreco universe.
Thursday, December 11: The rock energy of Georgia Kefala, frontwoman of Ble, and the avant-garde, experimental artist Ody Icons from Cyprus join forces in a night balancing old-school vibes and futuristic sounds.

With a “Move On Up” attitude, Jerome Kaluta and his band promise an unrepeatable musical experience across these two exclusive nights — an event not to be missed!

Cast & Crew:

Jerome Kaluta: Vocals
Odysseas Apostolopoulos: Keys / Vocals
Nikos Anastasiadis: Drums
Viktor Kouloumbis: Bass
Michalis Karagiannis: Electric Guitar
Giannis Kanakaris: Trombone
Giannis Papaioannou: Sound Engineer
Viktoria Papadopoulou: Production Director / Afrogreco Entertainment

Media & Promotion Contacts:

MK Group of Companies
Eleni Torou – Manos Magiatis – Eleni Vlachopoulou
Production Director: Athanasios Marosoulis
Production: MK Group of Companies – Ilias Marosoulis, Angelos Kotaridis

Published in Events In Athens

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Wednesday, 26 November 2025 12:04

The Euphoria Circles Session 4 - The Communication Session

Our fourth meeting of The Euphoria Circles will take place on Tuesday, December 16, at 19:00, at bar Amore Spritzeria, in Neos Kosmos, Menechmou 1-3

With Skevi Erotokritou, Photographer and Owner of Amore Spritzeria

Communication is a core pillar of The Euphoria Series as the quality of our communication shapes the quality of our relationships at work and beyond. It influences how we collaborate, how we lead, how we express needs and boundaries, and how we create trust in the spaces around us.

In this circle, we'll discuss

how clearly we express ourselves
the conversations we avoid and why
habits that support or block understanding
awareness of our internal state and how it impacts the way we communicate
the gap between what we feel and what we communicate
how communication shapes trust and collaboration in professional life
how we navigate the space between what we say, what we mean, and what the other person hears
how old communication patterns show up in new situations unless we consciously shift them
how communication opens the door to repair when tension or misunderstanding has built up

This session is dedicated in clearing up things so we enter the holidays feeling lighter.

Discussions will be moderated by Penelope Dimitrakopoulou.

ABOUT THE EUPHORIA CIRCLES

The Euphoria Circles are monthly evenings of mentoring, group coaching, and Curated and led by Penolope Dimitrokopouls, Professional and Executive Coach & guidor practice.

Each circle follows a two-part format:

Mentoring with a guest professional who brings insight and inspiration
Guided discussion, group coaching, and practical exercises led by Penelope, to translate ideas into personal growth and actionable change

Themes include leadership, stress management, team building, identity, and wellbeing.

Participants may join single sessions or commit to the full journey for deeper impact.

One-on-one coaching is also available at a special reduced rate, recommended for those who wish to explore the themes further.

Practical Details

• Session fee: 35 euros (includes wine and food)

• Booking: Please confirm your seat with a 35 deposit via Iris or Revolut to 6932471004, or to Alpha Bank IBAN GR6201401150115002786026008 (Beneficiary: ΔΗΜΗΤΡΑΚΟΠΟΥΛΟΥ ΠΗΝΕΛΟΠΗ).

• As spaces are limited, we kindly ask you to reserve your spot early and honor the group by committing to your attendance

• Participants bringing a guest receive a 10% discount.

Organizer Page: https://www.theeuphoriaseries.com/coaching-services/the-euphoria-circles/

Published in Retreats & Gatherings

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Thursday, 27 November 2025 11:07

From Athens To Pelion: Finding Stillness With Nefeli Nine

By Maria Ermides

After spending the summer melting in Athens and scrolling through endless posts of friends who had escaped to the islands, the invitation to join a Nefeli Nine retreat felt like one I couldn’t refuse.

All I knew was that it was set in the mountainous peninsula of Pelion, with daily yoga and hikes. Everything else, like the details you don’t want to worry about on a trip, would be handled by founder Stephanie Contomichalos and her team. I mean, nature, stillness, and a chance to reconnect with my love of yoga and see a different side of Greece? It was an obvious yes.

Our journey began on a Saturday, when we gathered at the airport for the 4+ hour trip. We were met by Elias, our hiking guide, and Irini, our yoga teacher—who would quickly become not just guides, but companions throughout the week.

Elias introduced us to Moirolói music on the drive, explaining how it honored the dead by celebrating life. And it was these little snippets of culture and knowledge from the team, sprinkled over the next 6 days, that would make it feel all the more enriching.

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As someone prone to motion sickness, the thought of a long journey was daunting. But after a seaside stop in Kamena Vourla for meze and conversation with our group, the hours melted away. It was in that moment, over shared plates, that I knew this week would be much more than just a holiday.

As I scanned the property, I mentally took note of where I would sit and ponder- by the pool, by the many ledges overlooking the spectacular view, or even in my lovely room. So many options.

By early evening, we arrived at Archontiko Stathopoulou Hotel and were greeted by Steph herself—apron on, slipping out of dinner preparations to give us a very warm welcome. From first glance at the property, I was completely blown away. Not only by the view of the Pagasitikos gulf and the village nestled amongst the mountains, but also by how tranquil it felt. Dating back to the 19th century, the first detail I noticed about the hotel was the stunning murals, adorning ceilings around the villa, including my bedroom. Waking up beneath them each morning truly felt like waking up inside my own private art gallery. If there was ever a place to unwind, release your worries, and simply be, this was it. I found myself already mapping out where I’d spend quieter moments between yoga and hikes—by the pool, perched on a ledge overlooking the view, or tucked away in my room.

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I think for many, the prospect of going somewhere new solo can be intimidating. Especially when you aren’t surrounded by the comfort of familiar faces or maybe even the familiarity of your favourite pillow. But from that first evening, as we all gathered for our first dinner at our new home for the week, it became very clear that this was a safe space to be.

Steph briefed us on what was to come, including our yoga schedule and the days we would be doing hikes, as well as making sure to include the level of difficulty. What was emphasised also was that we weren’t obliged to participate all of the time. Too tired for the morning yoga class? Sleep in. Don’t quite feel like a hike on the last day? Feel free to lounge by the pool. Going on a retreat with Nefeli Nine is not signing your life away to some sort of militant boot camp. The pace, as I came to find, is very manageable, and food—and carbs in general—are passed around and enjoyed freely.

Speaking of food, this was a definite highlight of the trip. Steph is a woman of many passions and interests, and cooking is most certainly one of them. Each morning, after our energising 8 a.m. yoga class with Irini, we were greeted by a table of homemade granola, rich Greek yoghurt, seasonal fruit, and whatever magical creation she had baked that day. These breakfasts set the tone for days full of energy and movement, making sure we were always adequately fed.

Missing the nature I loved so much back in Australia, I didn’t know what to expect hiking in Greece. To clarify, I would consider myself a hiking enthusiast—not quite a novice but certainly not an expert either. It had been more than a year since I had gone for a long hike, so on the first day, hiking roughly 4.8 km from Milies to Kala Nera, I was adamant to go slow. With Elias at the front and Steph and Eirini always nearby for a chat or a mental boost, you always feel taken care of, allowing you to find your rhythm on your own terms. Whether that be hanging back to enjoy the view, or gaining momentum up the hills at the front, there is room for all levels and abilities. What I loved most is that you can truly switch your brain off and feel like all the details are handled—from the route you take down to the taverna you eventually stop at for lunch (more on this later).

Each day brought something fresh and inspiring. A few highlights:

Day 1: Hiking from Milies to Kala Nera, rewarded with a seafront lunch at Rodia Taverna—refreshing shandies and the sweet satisfaction of our first accomplishment for the week.

Day 2: Picking apples, figs, and grapes straight from the trees, then sharing homemade spanakopita mid-hike. The joy of simple abundance.

Day 3: Exploring Milies village, stepping into Taxiarches Church, buying jars of local honey and jams, and ending with a swim at tranquil Labinou beach, followed by the best calamari I’ve ever had.

Day 4: Kayaking from Damouchari to Fakistra, enjoying dakos salad on the sand, and soaking in the charm of a village so picturesque Mamma Mia was filmed there.

Day 5: Our final hike, just minutes from the hotel, ending in a village square where locals handed us celebratory grapes. Lunch that day—prepared with Steph’s signature love—felt especially meaningful.

Day 6: One last yoga class with Eirini whose expertise and care, made every session feel like a wonderful lesson in philosophy, movement and attunement.

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Driving back altogether, I remarked to one of the guests I had the pleasure of getting to know, as we pulled up at a familiar pit stop: “The place is the same, but we have changed.” If I could encapsulate the retreat in one sentence, I feel as though this would be it.

There’s so much joy that comes through connecting with others in this kind of space and environment. We so often get caught up in our own bubbles that when we venture outside of it, even for just a week, it serves as a reminder of what we need more of. The simplicity of sharing a meal, of passing around plates of food, of walking alongside someone and getting a window into their world. Nefeli Nine was a re-introduction into the art of reconnecting—both with nature and with others. Whether through a friendly ‘Yiasas’ with a local or sharing stories from our lives in the ‘real world,’ it truly felt like our own little community for the week.

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How am I supposed to go back to Athens after all of this? I continuously wondered. The environment and the experiences that coincided alongside it were so wonderfully curated and so well thought out that it was honestly hard to leave. It’s not only a testament to Steph and the vision she has created, but also to the team she has chosen. With Elias giving us constant belly laughs and Eirini always bringing her beautiful, powerful energy to every practice, I couldn’t imagine the experience without them.

She echoed this sentiment to me on our final morning, when I had the chance to sit down with her.

“I wanted something that felt a bit more family-style. That felt a bit safer for people. It was a combination of love for being outdoors, of wanting to do something a bit different, and a need to bring people together.”

When I asked how she wanted guests to feel, she repeated a word that had become synonymous with my own experience throughout the week.

Safe.

“Safe is number one,” she tells me.

“Safe enough to be themselves, safe enough if they don’t want to take part in something to tell me. And to just feel comfortable enough to do what they want to do. To be silly with us, to dance around the table. I want people to feel like they’re with friends and there is no pressure.”

Back to reality, I’m already eyeing my next Nefeli Nine experience, and with several options on offer in locations like Agrafa and Zagorochoria, and their newly added Athens Day Trips, it’s not difficult to find inspiration.

So if you are feeling like you need a pause and a reason to explore a different side of Greece, I genuinely could not recommend Nefeli Nine enough. It could very well be the seven days you need to make a much-needed shift and reset, as I came to discover.

Published in Mindful Reads & News

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Thursday, 27 November 2025 10:55

Day Trips In Athens With Nefeli Nine

Athens isn’t just temples, cafés, and city buzz; it’s also surrounded by four majestic mountains, the “Keepers of Athens,” each with its own character, history, and secret corners. These guided hikes take you deep into their meandering trails, revealing panoramic views, ancient paths, hidden churches, seaside ruins, and forest sanctuaries.

Expect rich stories, changing landscapes, and a surprising cast of local residents — including the curious, always-hungry tortoises that roam all four mountains.

Choose your adventure:

Pendeli — The Outdoor Museum

Wander through an open-air museum of history and nature
Discover hidden stone churches
Enjoy sweeping views of Marathon Lake & Bay
Picnic lunch included

Thalassa — The Seaside Trail

Scenic coastal hike along ancient seaside paths
Explore the ruins of Nemesis’ sacred city
Finish with lunch at a beachfront fish taverna

Polis — Athens From Above

View Athens and Piraeus from dramatic mountaintop lookouts
Visit monasteries and centuries-old churches
Lunch at a hidden forest restaurant

Why You’ll Love It

Breathtaking panoramic views few locals have ever seen
Bursts of wildflowers, fragrant herbs, and seasonal greenery
Off-the-map historical sites and ancient trails
A beach-to-taverna coastal walk
Hidden monasteries and charming old churches
Seasonal foraging opportunities: thyme, mushrooms, asparagus & more
And of course… the tortoises!

What’s Included

Delicious meals & healthy snacks
Transport available on request
Optional yoga sessions
Suitable for all ages & fitness levels

Details

From €45 per person

Duration: 4–5 hours

Minimum: 4 people (contact us if your group is smaller)

Organizer's Page: Nefeli Nine

Published in Retreats & Gatherings

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Wednesday, 26 November 2025 12:58

3 Restaurants In Athens Worth The Hype

Athens’ food scene keeps reinventing itself, blending tradition, global flavors, and a whole lot of personality. From modern Japanese bites in the southern suburbs to iconic French-infused fine dining and breezy seafood right by the water, the city has a spot for every craving and every mood. Whether you’re planning a stylish night out, celebrating something special, or chasing that perfect sunset dinner by the sea, these 3 restaurants capture the best of what Athens has to offer right now. Let’s dive in.

Ryōtei 118 — modern Japanese vibes in Glyfáda

ryotei

@ryotei118

What is it: A recently opened Japanese-style “gastropub / sushi & ramen bar” in Glyfada.
Why it’s worth it: It combines authentic Japanese-style dishes (sushi, ramen, bao buns, gyoza) with a laid-back, urban-cool vibe, far from touristy restaurant clichés.
Mood & audience: Great for a casual but stylish dinner, especially if you’re around southern suburbs or beach-side Athens. Easy catch-up with friends or a relaxed date night.
Bonus: The kitchen is open and visible, so you get a bit of a “live cooking + good food + modern atmosphere” combo.

Where: Dimitriou Gounari 118, Glyfada

Spondi — fine dining with French / haute-cuisine sophistication

spondi

What is it: One of Athens’ iconic fine-dining restaurants, known for high-end cuisine and elegant ambiance.
Why it’s hyped: Frequently topping “best restaurant” lists, it's a go-to for visitors who want refined dishes, tasting menus, and a classy night out.
Mood & audience: Perfect for celebrations, business dinners, anniversaries, when you want more than just a meal, but an experience.
Bonus: Its reputation, service level, and cuisine make it a safe bet if you want a top-tier dining night without worrying too much about where to go.

Where: Pirronos 5, Athens

Sardelaki me Thea — Sunset Seafood by the Sea

@sardelaki_me_thea

What is it: A seaside Greek seafood taverna in Vouliagmeni, overlooking the bay with fresh fish, calamari, sardines, and meze dishes.
Why it’s hyped: Offers fresh, high-quality seafood with a stunning sunset view — perfect for a casual yet memorable coastal dinner.
Mood & audience: Ideal for families, groups, or couples looking for an authentic Greek seaside dining experience.
Bonus: Outdoor seating with a sea view; locals love it for weekend dinners and relaxed gatherings.

Where: Leoforos Poseidonos 18, Vouliagmeni

Published in Restaurants In Athens

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Wednesday, 26 November 2025 12:18

Neighbourhood Matchmaking: Which Athens District Fits Your Lifestyle?

Finding your place in Athens isn’t about being close to ancient ruins — it’s about choosing the neighbourhood that matches your lifestyle. Athens is incredibly diverse, with each area offering a different rhythm, community, and daily reality.

Here’s your guide to discovering where you truly fit in.

If you want… central, walkable, real Athenian living (Central Vibes)

Pagkrati

Best for: Young professionals, creatives, newcomers
Vibe: Urban, lively, full of cafés & small businesses

Why you’ll love it:

One of the most lived-in central neighbourhoods
Great food, culture, and walkability
Energizing without being chaotic

Things to consider: Parking nightmare; older buildings

pagkrati athina photo 5.jpg

Koukaki

Best for: Digital nomads, young expats, couples
Vibe: Trendy, friendly, a mix of locals & internationals

Why you’ll love it:

Tons of cafés, coworking spaces, and after-work spots
Easy metro access
Central yet still feels like a real neighbourhood

Things to consider: Rent has increased; can be busy

Mets

Best for: Artists, quiet-seekers, solo professionals
Vibe: Peaceful, leafy, charming

Why you’ll love it:

One of Athens’ most beautiful central pockets
Calm streets, great views, close to everything
Things to consider: Small, limited rental options

Neos Kosmos

Best for: Students, budget-minded expats
Vibe: Practical, urban, straightforward

Why you’ll love it:

Central location with lower rent
Metro + tram connections

Things to consider: Less “pretty,” more functional

If you want… nightlife, bar culture & a youthful atmosphere

Gazi / Kerameikos

Best for: Night owls, students, young professionals
Vibe: Energetic, alternative, LGBTQ+ friendly

Why you’ll love it:

Athens’ top nightlife district
Endless bars, clubs, & live music

Things to consider: Loud — a weekend hotspot

Kato Petralona

Best for: Foodies, bar-hoppers, creatives
Vibe: Relaxed but fun, stylish without trying

Why you’ll love it:

Fantastic restaurants, wine bars, and cafés
Still has a neighbourhood feel

Things to consider: Popular = rising rent

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If you want… calm, green spaces & a slower pace (Quiet & Residential)

Ilisia / Zografou (lower areas)

Best for: Students, young families, academics
Vibe: Local, friendly, affordable

Why you’ll love it:

Close to parks & universities
Central but quieter

Things to consider: Some hilly terrain

Ano Petralona

Best for: Nature lovers, families, remote workers
Vibe: Quiet streets, leafy corners, community feel

Why you’ll love it:

Close to Filopappou Hill
Great balance of city + calm

Things to consider: Limited nightlife

Nea Filadelfia

Best for: Families, dog owners, people who love green spaces
Vibe: Leafy, relaxed, very residential

Why you’ll love it:

Home to Filadelfia Grove, one of the nicest green spaces in the wider city
Calm streets, friendly community, family-oriented cafés and bakeries
Lower rent than central Athens

Things to consider: Longer commute if you work in the center, quieter nightlife

This is a big favourite for families relocating from busier areas.

nea filadelfeia oi kryfes kai faneres tis chares.jpg

If you want… sunshine, beach days & the coastal lifestyle (South Suburbs)

Glyfada

Best for: Expats, digital nomads, families
Vibe: Modern, international, upbeat

Why you’ll love it:

Beaches, restaurants, shopping, coworking
Very expat-friendly

Things to consider: Higher cost of living

Voula & Vouliagmeni

Best for: Families, sea lovers, outdoorsy types
Vibe: Calm, sunny, polished

Why you’ll love it:

Clean beaches, beautiful neighbourhoods
Great for swimmers, runners, cyclists

Things to consider: Expensive & farther from center

Aerial drone photo of small marina with boats anchored in Voula, Athens riviera, Attica, Greece

If you want… value for money, space & well-connected

Marousi

Best for: Families, corporate professionals
Vibe: Organized, suburban, comfortable

Why you’ll love it:

Bigger apartments, green areas, good schools
Metro & suburban railway connections

Things to consider: Car useful for some errands

Chalandri

Best for: Young professionals, expat families, food lovers
Vibe: Trendy suburban, lively but balanced

Why you’ll love it:

Excellent restaurants, cafés, and parks
Strong community feeling

Things to consider: Not close to the sea

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Peristeri

Best for: Students, young workers, families on a budget
Vibe: Big, lively, very local

Why you’ll love it:

Affordable rents
Great metro connection (Line 2)
Central amenities without central prices
Big squares, parks, cafés, and a strong community vibe

Things to consider: It’s busy and more urban than suburban

Peristeri is one of the most lived-in and dynamic real Athenian neighbourhoods.

Kallithea

Best for: Students, young workers, international residents
Vibe: Busy, lively, very lived-in

Why you’ll love it:

Great transport links (two metro stations + buses)
Walkable streets filled with bakeries, cafés, bookstores & everyday shops
Affordable rent compared to central neighbourhoods
Very popular with students and younger people

Things to consider: Dense and busy; little green space

Kallithea is one of the biggest real-life hubs in Athens: lots of young people, lots of movement, lots of food, and a strong local identity.

If you want… authentic, multicultural, everyday Athens (Local Vibes)

Kypseli

Best for: Artists, multicultural households, young locals
Vibe: Energetic, diverse, creative

Why you’ll love it:

Vibrant community, international food
The iconic Fokionos Negri pedestrian street

Things to consider: Street noise; some older housing

Kato Patissia

Best for: Students, budget renters, long-term residents
Vibe: Real, lived-in, local

Why you’ll love it:

Affordable rent & great transport
Big local markets and everyday shops

Things to consider: Very urban, busy streets

So… which Athens neighbourhood matches your lifestyle?

Whether you want beaches, buzzing nightlife, family-friendly calm, or creative urban living, Athens has a neighbourhood that fits your rhythm. Once you find the right pocket of the city, everything else starts to fall into place.

Published in City Discovery

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ABOUT US

XpatAthens

Pendeli — The Outdoor Museum

Thalassa — The Seaside Trail

Polis — Athens From Above

Why You’ll Love It

What’s Included

Details

If you want… central, walkable, real Athenian living (Central Vibes)

Pagkrati

Koukaki

Mets

Neos Kosmos

If you want… nightlife, bar culture & a youthful atmosphere

Gazi / Kerameikos

Kato Petralona

If you want… calm, green spaces & a slower pace (Quiet & Residential)

Ilisia / Zografou (lower areas)

Ano Petralona

Nea Filadelfia

If you want… sunshine, beach days & the coastal lifestyle (South Suburbs)

Glyfada

Voula & Vouliagmeni

If you want… value for money, space & well-connected

Marousi

Chalandri

Peristeri

Kallithea

If you want… authentic, multicultural, everyday Athens (Local Vibes)

Kypseli

Kato Patissia

So… which Athens neighbourhood matches your lifestyle?

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