Athens, with its rich history and vibrant culture, is the perfect place to find unique Christmas gifts that carry a touch of Greek heritage. From museum shops filled with artistic treasures to local artisan markets, the city offers countless options for thoughtful and original presents. Here are some of the best places to find distinctive Christmas gifts in Athens, along with specific examples to inspire your shopping.


The Acropolis Museum Shop

The Acropolis Museum Shop is a must-visit destination for unique and sophisticated gifts. This festive season, the shop offers an exclusive range of holiday-themed items, including:

• Handmade Festive Ornaments: Inspired by ancient Greek motifs and perfect for decorating your Christmas tree.
• Luxurious Scarves and Ties: Featuring intricate patterns drawn from classical Greek art.
• Elegant Jewelry Collections: Designs based on museum artifacts, such as ancient coins and pottery patterns.
• Holiday Gift Boxes: Beautifully packaged sets including books, decorative items, and themed souvenirs. Visit the shop or explore their online collection.

Known for its focus on Cycladic, ancient Greek, and Byzantine-inspired designs, the Museum of Cycladic Art Shop offers gifts with a timeless aesthetic. Their festive range includes:

• Holiday Cards and Stationery: Featuring artistic Cycladic designs.
• Cycladic-Inspired Decorations: Perfect for adding a touch of Greek art to your home.
• Premium Gift Sets: Combining ceramics, books, and exclusive Cycladic figurine replicas. Explore their gift collection.

The Benaki Museum’s shops are renowned for their diverse selection, catering to lovers of art, culture, and history. Their festive offerings include:

• Christmas Ornaments: Inspired by traditional Greek designs and patterns.
• Artisan Jewelry: Handcrafted pieces reflecting Greek mythology and history.
• Decorative Items: Such as vases, plates, and figurines with traditional motifs.

Athens’ artisan markets, such as those in Monastiraki and Plaka, are brimming with handmade goods that make unique and personal gifts. Popular shops and stalls include:

• Melissinos Art-The Poet Sandal Maker: Famous for custom leather sandals made to measure.
• Trabala Studio: Specializing in contemporary hand-painted pottery.
• Greek Olive Oil Shops: Offering premium extra virgin olive oil in beautifully designed bottles.
• Handmade Jewelry Stalls: Featuring pieces crafted with semi-precious stones and traditional techniques.

For a modern twist on Greek aesthetics, Greek designer boutiques in neighborhoods like Kolonaki and Koukaki showcase contemporary takes on traditional designs. Recommended spots include:

• Zeus+Dione: Known for its high-end fashion and accessories inspired by Greek heritage.
• Forget Me Not: A boutique offering unique memorabilia and contemporary Greek items.
• Apivita Experience Store: Combining Greek natural ingredients in luxury skincare gift sets.

No list of unique gifts would be complete without mentioning Athens’ specialty food shops. Gourmet treats make for delicious presents, and standout options include:

• Mastiha Shop: Offering a range of products made from Chios mastiha, from liqueurs to skincare.
• Heteroclito: A boutique wine shop specializing in curated Greek wine collections perfect for gifting.
• Ergon House: Featuring artisanal food products like honey, cheeses, and charcuterie.

Athens offers endless possibilities for finding unique and meaningful Christmas gifts. Whether you’re looking for artistic treasures, handcrafted goods, or gourmet delights, the city’s shops and markets have something for everyone. This holiday season, give gifts that tell a story and reflect the rich culture of Greece.

Mona Athens is excited to invite you to CLUB MONAMOUR’s most anticipated party of the season co-hosted with our friends from Pharaoh Athens.

Inspired by the pulsating energy of Italo-disco and genre-defying beats, this is an exclusive vinyl-only celebration taking over Mona’s Underground Club in Psirri.

Get ready to dance alongside the city’s most intriguing crowd, all set to an eclectic line-up of DJs spinning deep, irresistible grooves until the early hours.

Special Guest of the Night:­ Sicilian DJ and music producer DJ SCM (Maurizio Schirò), based in Berlin, will be exploring sounds that transcend genres, spinning everything from Balearic, Italo-disco, afro-boogie, and early house. Joined by Maik Nait from the Kasseta Records collective – a cornerstone of the Athens scene for over a decade and serial vinyl collector. Warming up the evening, Yiorgos Koutivas (Polyphonia Project) from Avia in Messinia will set the tone with a signature multi-genre set.

We can’t wait to spend this Vinyl Spettacolare NYE with you!

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For more information, please CLICK HERE!

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THEATRE OF THE NO, Athens' first English speaking  theatre, welcomes guitarist Panos Iliou for a special project that tells the story of Blues and its evolution.

On Friday, December 20th at 22:30, the performance will take us on a journey through the early forms of country blues and early blues, which remain the foundation and source of inspiration for countless musicians around the world.

From Dockery Farms, the birthplace of this musical legacy, Panos Iliou will guide us through a musical journey along the paths of Delta Blues, Piedmont Blues, Bentonia Blues, and Hill Country Blues, exploring the regions that shaped the authentic sound of the blues.

His music is not limited to the Mississippi Delta. The journey continues through Texas Blues, the East Coast, Memphis, and reaches Chicago, where modern "electric" blues was born.

Credits

Social media: Kallia Gerakianaki

PR & Communication: Eleftheria Sakareli

Date: Friday, December 20th at 22:30

Ticket: €10

Note: The theater also has a bar with affordable prices: beer €2.50, drinks €5

George met a girl in 2018. The Dream girl. A doctor, a mother of two, beautiful, smart, and funny. And then things happened... This is a show about love and betrayal. And it is 100% true.

This show is Baby Reindeer meets PS I Love You.

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Born and raised in Kalamata, George has gone on to dominate the UK comedy scene, headlining in the biggest comedy clubs as well as appearing on BBC One several times. He has performed sold out shows at both the Edinburgh Fringe Festival and the Melbourne International Comedy Festival. In the last 2 years he has performed in 22 countries, while his videos have millions of views online.

EUROPEAN COMEDY AWARDS “BEST PERFORMER 2024"

International Comedian of the Year, Melbourne Comedy Festival in 2023

"Very funny, and utterly surprising, go see George Zacharopoulos before he leaves town. It is, without question, one of the best hours of comedy on offer."
The Quintessential Review

"This funny and insightful take on relationships has a truly touching, shocking and heart breaking ending. Zacharopoulos is so clever and sharp witted. This is such an important show"
Entertainment Now

"He delivers this with such a wicked sense of humour that you will ache from laughing so hard"
The Reviews Hub

"Impeccably structured and wonderfully performed. Cathartic and hilarious."
Corr Blimey

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Sunday December 22nd

Time: 21:00 (Doors open 20:40)

Duration: 1h15

Tickets:
* Early-bird: €10

* General admission: €15

* At the door: €20

Info: 6987994689 // athensenglishcomedyclub@gmail.com

The theatre is wheelchair accessible.

Recommended for audiences aged 16 and above.

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Find George online:

Website

Facebook

Instagram

YouTube

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About the Athens English Comedy Club

Founded in 2019, the Athens English Comedy Club is the first, and only, purely English comedy club in Greece!

Sign up to our newsletter for direct-to-email updates and exclusive ticket offers!: http://eepurl.com/it6PzQ

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Come and laugh! Nay! Come and chortle. Or better yet, guffaw!

Christmas in Greece is a vibrant tapestry of customs and rituals steeped in history and tradition. From kalanda to festive family dinners, there are numerous practices that highlight the country’s deep cultural roots and festive spirit. 

One of the most distinctive symbols of Christmas in Greece is the decorated boat, or “karavaki.” In coastal and island communities, boats are adorned with lights and ornaments, a tradition that predates the introduction of Christmas trees. This custom reflects Greece’s maritime heritage and serves as a tribute to sailors and the sea. Today, while Christmas trees have become popular, the karavaki remains a beloved symbol, especially in island regions such as the Cyclades and Dodecanese.

Known as “christoxylo,” this tradition involves burning a large log in the fireplace throughout the twelve days of Christmas (December 25 to January 6). The log symbolizes warmth, light, and protection from evil spirits. This practice has its origins in pre-Christian solstice rituals, which celebrated the return of longer days and the renewal of life.

According to Greek folklore, the twelve days of Christmas are a time when “kallikantzaroi,” or mischievous goblins, emerge from the underworld to wreak havoc. These impish creatures are said to cause trouble in homes and villages. To ward them off, families burn incense, hang garlic by their doors, or leave colanders outside. The belief is that the goblins, obsessed with counting, will waste time counting the holes in the colander until sunrise chases them away.

In Greece, New Year’s Day is dedicated to Saint Basil (Agios Vasilis), a figure similar to Santa Claus. Families bake a special cake called “vassilopita,” which contains a hidden coin. During the cutting of the cake, slices are distributed to family members, with one piece reserved for the house and another for the poor. Whoever finds the coin in their slice is believed to have good fortune in the coming year.

Epiphany, or “Theofania,” is celebrated on January 6 and marks the baptism of Christ. A central event of this day is the blessing of the waters. Priests bless rivers, lakes, or seas by throwing a cross into the water. Young men dive in to retrieve the cross, and the one who retrieves it is said to receive special blessings for the year. This tradition underscores the importance of water in Greek culture and its symbolism of purification and renewal.

To protect their homes from kallikantzaroi and other malevolent forces, Greek families practice several rituals. Burning incense, breaking pomegranate, lighting candles, and leaving food offerings are common practices. These rituals harken back to ancient pagan customs that sought to harmonize the natural and supernatural worlds.

Greek Christmas celebrations are also marked by an array of delicious foods that vary by region. Common dishes include:

• Christopsomo (Christ’s Bread): A special bread decorated with symbols of the family’s livelihood.
• Melomakarona: Honey-dipped cookies spiced with cinnamon and cloves.
• Kourabiedes: Almond shortbread cookies dusted with powdered sugar.
• Roast Lamb or Pork: Often the centerpiece of the Christmas Day meal.
• Vasilopita: The New Year’s cake, baked in honor of Saint Basil.

These foods not only nourish the body but also serve as offerings of gratitude and symbols of abundance.

While some traditions have evolved or faded over time, many of these customs remain central to Greek Christmas celebrations. They are a testament to the country’s ability to blend ancient and Christian practices into a cohesive and meaningful holiday season. For Greeks, Christmas is not just a time for gift-giving and feasting but also an opportunity to honor their heritage, strengthen family bonds, and welcome blessings for the year ahead.

Kalanda, the Greek tradition of singing Christmas carols, holds a unique place in Greece's festive customs. This age-old practice, celebrated on Christmas Eve, New Year’s Eve, and Epiphany, brings communities together through music, blessings, and cultural pride. 

The term "kalanda" originates from the Latin word “calendae,” meaning “the first day of the month.” This Latin term itself derives from the verb “calo,” which shares its root with the Greek verb “kaló” (καλώ), meaning “to call.” In Roman times, calendae marked the beginning of each month, and celebratory songs were performed to announce and honor the new lunar cycle. Over time, this tradition blended with local Greek customs, particularly those associated with the Dionysian festivals.

In ancient Greece, the tradition of “Eiresione” played a similar role. During harvest festivals, children would carry olive or laurel branches decorated with wool, fruits, and nuts. These branches symbolized prosperity and fertility. As they paraded through villages singing hymns, they received small gifts or treats. The Eiresione custom, with its themes of blessings and good fortune, is considered a precursor to kalanda.

With the spread of Christianity, these pagan practices were adapted to celebrate the nativity of Christ and the new calendar year. The kalanda we know today reflect this blending of ancient and Christian influences, becoming an integral part of Greek festive culture.

On the eves of Christmas, New Year’s, and on Epiphany day, children gather in small groups, often accompanied by simple instruments like triangles, drums, or lyres. They visit homes in their neighborhoods, singing carols that offer blessings and good wishes. In return, they are rewarded with small tokens such as sweets, coins, or fruit.

The lyrics of kalanda vary depending on the occasion:

If you are living in Greece as a non-Greek resident or a Greek resident on a Digital Nomad, FIP, or other visa, obtaining an AFM (Tax Identification Number) is essential.

This nine-digit number, pronounced "AFIMI" in Greek, is something you’ll use regularly for tasks such as:

• Getting a Greek phone number in your name.
• Leasing a home or property.
• Logging into TAXISnet to interact with government systems.
• Filing taxes and generating tax certificates.
• Purchasing property or a car.
• Completing many other daily tasks.

The Greek tax office or consulate typically requires:

• A copy of your passport.
• First and last names of your parents.
• Your home address (outside Greece) and temporary address in Greece (if applicable).
• Your foreign tax number.
• Your mobile phone number.
• An authorization form if you are appointing a tax representative to apply on your behalf.

You can apply for an AFM by visiting your local tax office (Eforia). Offices are usually open in the mornings, and while walk-ins are possible, it’s better to call ahead and arrange an appointment. If you’re applying through a Greek consulate, appointments are mandatory.

While you can handle the process yourself, it often becomes challenging due to unclear document requirements or language barriers. Many individuals appoint a tax representative to streamline the process.

The process typically takes 2-3 days if all your documents are in order. Including scheduling and completing the application, it may take about a week. Ensuring your documents are organized and ready will help expedite the process.

 

If you’re here on a spouse visa, you’ll need your wedding certificate, apostilled and translated, to register for your AFM. In most cases, the registration process will already be underway, requiring only a copy of your Greek visa card.

 

If you have any other needs or questions, feel free to reach out to us! Whether it’s navigating daily life in Greece or managing other administrative tasks, we’re here to help make your experience as smooth and stress-free as possible.

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This content has been created in collaboration with Tsaks Consulting.

One of the most popular types of privately owned limited liability companies in Greece is the IKE – Idiotiki Kefalaiouxiki Etaireia. It requires a minimum of one euro in capital to start and is highly flexible, making it suitable for both small SMEs and larger businesses.

The main features of an IKE (Private Limited Company) in Greece are outlined below, highlighting why it is an attractive company structure businesses:

• Separate Legal Entity:
  An IKE company is a completely separate legal entity, distinct from its owners. This separation is critical from a legal and liability perspective, as it allows the company to incur debts and conduct business in its own name, offering significant protection to its members.
• Scope of Members:
  An IKE company can have one or more members. A single-member IKE company is known as an SMPC (Single-Member Private Company).
• Company Duration:
  The default duration of an IKE company is 12 years. However, this can be modified through amendments to the company’s articles. Members can also vote to extend the duration beyond 12 years.
• Capital Requirements:
  Only 1 euro is required to establish an IKE company, making it accessible. Contributions can be made in various forms, including non-cash assets.
• Limited Liability:
  Members have no financial risk beyond their contribution, except in very limited cases where administrators may be personally liable for tax or social security debts.

One thing to keep in mind with an IKE company is the cost of compliance and maintenance. In some cases, the process is more complex than for other company types, leading to higher monthly and yearly costs for tax and accounting services. It’s essential to have sufficient income or revenue to justify these expenses.

To create an IKE company, you need to draft a private document and register it through the General Commercial Registry (GEMI) “One-Stop Shop.” A notarial act is required only if a partner contributes real estate or in cases of specific legal requirements.

If all the documentation is correct, the process can be completed on the same day. Note that a website must be registered within one month of the company’s formation.

Any changes to the company’s regulations, address, purpose, or articles of incorporation are generally completed through the GEMI portal.

When establishing an IKE company, you must list its headquarters in the Statute. While the company can conduct business overseas, it can maintain an administrative office in Greece. The Statute, which is the foundational document of the company, outlines all the rules, regulations, and structures. A standard template is often used, but this can be amended to suit specific agreements or requirements when forming an IKE with other shareholders or personnel.

The GEMI (Geniko Emboriko Mitroo) is a 12-digit business number used for government record-keeping and streamlining business processes. It grants access to “One-Stop Shops,” making it easier to manage business registration and compliance.

There is no definitive answer to this question and we highly recommend considering other company types too. The suitability of an IKE depends on various factors, including the nature and structure of your business, expected turnover, liability concerns, and plans for listing or raising funds.

It’s essential to carefully evaluate these factors and consider the costs of maintaining the company and its accounts before making a decision. Of course, we’re here to help you and support you with whatever you need throughout the process - feel free to reach out to us with your questions!

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This content has been created in collaboration with Tsaks Consulting.

Relocating to Greece? Whether you’re renting a charming Athenian apartment or investing in a Mediterranean villa, navigating Greek tenancy and ownership laws can feel like a maze. But don’t worry—we’ve broken it all down for you!

This article combines expert insights on rental rights and responsibilities with essential property ownership guidelines, helping expatriates make informed decisions. Ready to dive in? Let’s explore your rights and obligations when living and investing in Greece. This article is a contribution to XpatAthens and has been created by Expat Law.

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Renting In Greece: Your Rights & Responsibilities

Renting a property as an expat in Greece comes with specific rights and duties that protect both tenants and landlords. Here’s what you need to know:

Key Rental Laws in Greece

1. Lease Agreements Are Binding:
   • Greek rental agreements typically last three years unless otherwise stated.
   • Verbal agreements are valid but always insist on a written contract for clarity and legal backing.
2. Security Deposits:
   • Landlords can request up to two months’ rent as a security deposit.
   • This deposit is returned at the end of the lease, provided there’s no damage or unpaid rent.
3. Eviction Rules:
   • Tenants cannot be evicted arbitrarily.
   • Greek law mandates a legal process for evictions, safeguarding tenant rights.

Tenant Responsibilities

• Rent Payments: Always pay your rent on time to avoid disputes.
• Property Care: Tenants are expected to maintain the property and report major repairs to the landlord.

Pro Tip: When negotiating a lease, double-check who’s responsible for utilities and maintenance fees—it’s not always clear in contracts.

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Owning Property In Greece: What Expats Need To Know

Dreaming of taking the next step owning a slice of Greek history? Buying property in Greece involves some unique legal requirements for foreigners. Here’s a quick rundown:

Foreigners Can Own Property—With Conditions

• Expats from EU countries face no restrictions when buying property.
• Non-EU citizens may need special permission to purchase properties in border regions (e.g., islands near Turkey).

The Purchasing Process

1. Hire a Lawyer: A Greek Lawyer can help you verify the property’s legal status and ensure there are no outstanding debts, burdening the property.
2. Obtain a Greek Tax Number (AFM): This number is required for any property transaction.
3. Notary Involvement: All property sales must be finalized through a notary, ensuring a legal and transparent transfer.

Taxes and Fees

• Expect to pay around 8-10% of the property’s value in taxes and fees, including transfer tax, legal fees, and notary costs.
• Property owners are also subject to annual ENFIA (property tax).

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Navigating Legal Challenges As An Expat

Despite Greece’s welcoming charm, expatriates can face occasional legal hiccups. Here’s how to stay ahead of potential pitfalls:

1. Understand Your Lease: Don’t sign anything you don’t fully understand—have a bilingual lawyer or translator review the terms.
2. Verify Property Ownership: Before purchasing, confirm the seller has clear ownership rights and that the property is free from legal disputes.
3. Keep Track of Deadlines: Rental agreements, taxes, and permits often come with strict timelines. Missing a deadline can lead to hefty fines.

Helpful Resources for Expats

• Greek Ombudsman Office: Handles disputes between landlords and tenants.
• Local Real Estate Agents: Familiar with expat-friendly properties and their legal nuances.

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Why Understanding Greek Property Laws Matters

Whether you’re renting or buying, knowing your rights and responsibilities ensures a smooth experience in Greece’s real estate market. Understanding tenancy laws protects you from unfair practices, while navigating ownership regulations lets you invest with confidence.

Relocating to Greece is a dream for many, but it pays to do your homework. With the right legal guidance, you’ll enjoy the sun, sea, and history without a hitch.

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FAQs

1. Can expats negotiate rental agreements in Greece?
Yes! Lease terms can often be negotiated, but always get the agreement in writing to avoid misunderstandings.

2. Are Greek property taxes high?
Not particularly, but property owners must budget for annual ENFIA taxes and one-time transfer fees during the purchase process.

3. What happens if a landlord doesn’t return my deposit?
You can take legal action, as Greek law requires landlords to return deposits unless there’s documented damage or unpaid rent.

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For more in-depth information on expat legal matters in Greece, check out Expat Law’s  Guide on Greek Rentals.

 

The Athens Singers began in 1967 when a small group of music lovers met and sang together for the sheer pleasure of making music. Over the years, the name Athens Singers has became a byword for musical excellence and endeavour, attracting membership and audiences from both Greek and non-Greek communities. 

While the direction is in English, the choir sings in a variety of languages and musical styles, ranging from Pre-Baroque to the twenty-first century. Recent performances of theirs include works by classical composers such as Schubert, Mozart, Cherubini and Bach as well as more modern composers such as Bob Chilcott, Martin Palmeri and Dan Forrest. New Members Welcome - especially tenors and basses.

Our Rehearsals currently take place at:

   

ACS American Community Schools

129 Agias Paraskevis, Kazantzaki St.

Chalandri 15234

A 5-minute walk from the Agia Paraskevi Metro station

Rehearsals are on Wednesday evenings

The Athens Singers is a non-profit organization. Any proceeds from tickets or sponsorship goes towards paying professional musicians for accompaniment, rehearsal space and music scores. Anyone who would like to sponsor us can have their name and logo printed on our programs and posters.