Free Athens

FREE ATHENS You are not only tourists, you are travellers as well:

Another point of view about Athens

STREET

PRESS

Welcome to our country and to our city!

We did not intend to publish another guide from those who are out now,

those that you will have definitely seen them and they are very useful. We wanted to create a free press to talk to you about Athens in a more real way. As we travel to other countries and cities, we would like to find something to read, in order to enter directly the reality of the place where we are. That’s why we thought it would be nice to create something like this for you. Our texts try to show you Athens beyond clichés and reproductions of formal pictures.

We want to share

with you- even a little bit- the soul and the identity of the city that will host you for a few days or more. We want to show to you details that deserve your attention, streets that are ideal for long walks, neighbourhoods that if you don’t know, you will not go.

Join us

to get a little deeper in the cohesion of the city, its contrasts and its character. Whatever is real is nice, isn’t it? Have fun!

Send us photos to info@ipolizei.gr More Info: ipolizei.gr

Αrtwork | Daniel Egneus | www.danielegneus.com | Instagram: danielegneus | Facebook: Daniel Egneus

FREE ATHENS

The texts in this magazine

which you are holding right now in your hands are written by the people of the monthly newspaper I POLI ZEI (The City Lives) which can be found the last 6 years in the streets of Athens. This paper is a street free press with its own philosophy and state of mind. Those people do not hide the truth, they speak simply and honestly and help you to orient with their own criteria.

The shops which are displayed in the right pages are excellent choices and top in their category.

We have selected them based on what they offer, on the style of each tribute, and of course on the trust they have to us for years. They deserve their attention, this is what we tell you, and you can take from each what it suits you the most.

Meet people. What is better than

talking to people, getting to know them even for a moment, listening their identity? Do the same with the city itself! Walk it, feel it, watch the situations, the details, the fine and the rough aspects of reality.

For more information, enter the

site ipolizei.gr at the section free Athens and there you will find all our texts, but more information about the shops displayed. And don’t forget to send us your photos with a comment or a thought of yours to: info@ipolizei.gr

s t n e t n co

Featured places in order in which they appear in “Free Athens”

FREE ATHENS

STREET

PRESS

Athens museums

6-10

6 8 10

Industrial Gas Museum Here the Good Museums!

The best museum of all is…

This is Athens

12-16

Urban art

18-24

A walk in neighbourhoods

26-40

Welcome to Athens… the new Berlin? 12 or a typical Chinatown?

14 or maybe it´s just Athens…

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Graffiti The street show A midsummer night’s cinema

20 22 24

The most annoying types of GREEKS &TOURISTS Bars Salty snacks & sweets Κerameikos “In Acropolis’ feet”! (literally) Kolonaki, the king of athenian luxury Exarchia

Taste in Athens

Close your eyes and enjoy all those flavors of Greece!

Vegan cuisine Ethnic cuisine The best greek souvlaki you will taste in Athens!

28 30 32 34 36 38 40

42-50 44 46 48 50

Escape 52-54 Green and blue, are the colours of Greece, the colours of nature and of summer, aren’t they?

Something to remember Notes Useful information Agenda

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56-62 58 60 62

Send us photos to info@ipolizei.gr More Info: ipolizei.gr

p. 5

Skydive Athens

p. 6-7 p. 9

p. 11

Industrial Gas Museum Korai str. MEMORIAL SITE 1941-1944 Art Space “STOart KORAI” Epigraphic Museum Digital Museum Academy of Plato Municipality of Athens Museum of Folk Art and Tradition “Aggeliki Chatzimichali”, Municipality of Athens Museum of Greek Folk Instruments “Fivos Anoyanakis” Center of Ethnomusicology Museum of Greek Children’s Art Museum of Asia Minor Hellenism “Filio Chaidemenou”

p. 13

p. 15

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The Blackduck Garden | Athens City Museum Bistrot Saorsa Athens | Coffee, Spirits & More Microulee | Chinese Take-away Restaurant Puttanesca | Italian - Street - Pasta Wabi Sabi | Asian Food & Sushi Kiveli | Mediterranean Restaurant

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To Kompoloi tou Psirri | Handmade Kartousa Art Shop | Handmade Creations Aperges & Co | With Artistry in Faith Loser | Bar Intriga | Cafe - Bar Athinaia | Cinema Panathinaia | Cinema Trianon | Cinema

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Barreldier | Bar The 7 Jokers | Bar Juan Rodriguez | Cocktail Bar Bilatz | All Day Bar Bunsis | Bun - Coffee and More Ohh Boy | Coffee, Treats & Small Eats San Fransisco | Sandwich Shop Tamarind Thai | Thai Restaurant Metaxou | Greek Tavern Tsiritri Tsiritro | Cafe To Kouti | Cafe - Restaurant Kimolia | All-Day Cafe-Bar Telaro | Tasting Culture Volver a la Sombra | Breakfast & Brunch Restaurant - Bar Melilotos | Innovative Kitchen Alexandrino | Cafe Bistrot Ippopotamos | Bar Rozalia | Greek Tavern

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Oi Nostimies tis Mairis | Greek Cuisine Laki’s Ouzeri | Fish Tavern Arxontissa | Traditional Greek Cuisine Mama Tierra | Healthy Cuisine Vegan Beat | Health Food Restaurant Not Just Falafel | Eat in - Take Away - Delivery Etnico | Ethnic Street Food The Pie Shop | Pies from all over the world Prigkipas | Grill House Achilleas-Vergina | Greek Cuisine

p. 55

Almos Travel ltd Polo Center | Supplies for any kind of trip

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H5 Open Art Gallery | Art Handcraft Hallelujah | Inspired Clothes Dia Tafta | Finest Greek Products Vrettos | Antiques This and That | Gift Shop Like Yesterday’s | Vintage Shop

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Nancy’s Sweet Home | We don’t play with sweets, the store is a corner Dude Bar | All Day & Night Bar Food Str | Quality Street Food Klimataria | Tavern

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FOLLOW US:

THE GREATEST FALL OF YOUR LIFE!

15 minutes of scenic flight with our 18 seated plane 1 minute of free fall reaching speeds up to 220 km/h 5-6 minutes of smooth parachute flight No experience required All equipment provided, just bring comfortable clothing and sneakers No age limit, everybody is welcome!

The whole experience takes about 2 hours to complete Want to bring a support crew?

Our viewing area is perfectly positioned so your friends and family can watch you land!

Easy access by car, bus or Skydive Athens shuttle

B O O K N OW:

+30 697 0300 222

WWW.SKYDIVE-ATHENS.GR info@skydive-athens.gr

s n e h t A s m u e s u m FREE ATHENS

At Technopolis you can also…

Watch or participate in the actions organized

by Technopolis and INNOVATHENS

Industrial Gas Museum The Athens gasworks: a unique monument of industrial heritage

The Industrial Gas Museum of Athens-Greece was inaugurated in 2013, aiming at promoting

the old gasworks plant, which used to provide energy and light to the capital for almost 130 years. It is a unique monument of industrial heritage, the only one to have maintained its entire mechanical equipment in situ.

The Museum is located in Technopolis City of Athens, a unique cultural space, open and accessible to all, since 1999, with over 1,000,000 visitors per year.

Your visit

Enjoy your coffee, snack or meal from our new menu at Technopolis Café

Let your children play at Technopolis’ children’s play area

Climb, balance and sharpen your wits at SkyWalk, an allnew and completely safe play and interaction area for children and grown-ups

Enter the venue from Persefonis street or Iakchou street, buy the Museum Guide for 1 euro and start your tour around the first industrial museum in the city exploring 1 path, 6 buildings and 14 stops. You can follow the gas production line, admire the mechanical equipment and learn about the workers’ role in the old plant.

The visit in the Industrial Gas Museum is an experience which stimulates your feelings. Discover the smells in the old plant, hear the stories of old workers through the furnaces and touch the machinery, which was operative until recently. The museum experience in enhanced through new technologies and 3D projections combined with historical documents and a rich audiovisual material.

The Industrial Gas Museum has opened the doors of this unique monument to the public and has transformed it into an integral part of the city by organizing various events for all: temporary exhibitions, hackathons, theatrical plays, educational programs, workshops and interactive tours for children, adolescents, adults, school groups and families. **Contact us for tours, team building workshops, educational programs as well as… night tours!

Watchtower

Go up to the highest old gasworks building, the Tower of the New Watergas building, and discover a new breathtaking view of the city. Enjoy the panoramic 360° view, from Acropolis and Lycabettus hill to the western suburbs and Egaleo, as well as Faliro and Kastella. But the most intriguing of all is the use of binoculars offered!

Shop Discover the city using one of the Athens Bikes

In the Industrial Gas Museum Shop, visitors can find unique gifts, souvenirs, jewelery and books for children and grown-ups, inspired by the old gasworks at very friendly prices, as well as the Industrial Gas Museum’s catalogue.

The Industrial Gas Museum supports Greek industrial designers, in collaboration with Greek manufacturers and producers. The Shop also commissions the entire production line of objects for final products without intermediaries.

Industrial Gas Museum Opening Hours Wintertime (15/10-15/4): TUE-WED-FRI-SAT-SUN: 10.00-20.00 Last admission: 19.15 THU: 10.00-21.00 Last admission: 20.15 Summertime (16/4-14/10): TUE to SUN: 10.00-18.00 Last admission: 17.15 Closed on: Mondays, 1st January, Easter Sunday, 1st May, 15th August, 28th October, 25th & 26th December www.gasmuseum.gr Tel: (+30) 2130109325 E-mail: gasmuseum@athens-technopolis.gr Facebook page: Βιομηχανικό Μουσείο Φωταερίου/Industrial Gas Museum

Shop Opening Hours Wintertime (15/10-15/4): TUE-WED-FRI-SAT-SUN: 10.00-18.00 THU: 10.00-20.15 Summertime (16/4-14/10): TUE to SUN: 10.00-17.15 Closed on: Mondays, 1st January, Easter Sunday, 1st May, 15th August, 28th October, 25th & 26th December Tel: (+30) 210 3460981 E-mail: shop@athens-technopolis.gr Facebook page: Industrial Gas Museum Shop

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s n e h t A s m u e s u m FREE ATHENS

Useful Advice for Museum Explorers

Wake up early, for god’s shake! (of course, you did not expected us to remind this to you)

Organise well your day. Some really good museums can be found in the same part of the city. Famous museum spots are of course Plaka, Monastiraki, Kolonaki and Syntagma. Choose which day you are going to visit which museums.

Keep the purchase of some special presents for the people you love in museums’ shops. Really good qualities, originality and a variety of options will help you return back to your home as a real collector of greek history!

Here the Good Museums! (tip: ask a greek to translate this phrase for you)

In Athens you are not going to miss two things: food and history. Both of them are everywhere.

Both of them are precious, but not expensive. The numerous museums of almost every corner of this city prove that, if you like to expand your knowledge while vacating, you are in the right place. Except for the already known to you museums, such as the one of Acropolis, there are so many others, that can really surprise you!

Because, nowadays, the philosophy of museums in the whole world, and for sure in the greek

capital, has changed: they are more interactive, thanks to the new technologies. Some of them have free entrance some days of the month or of the week. Stay informed about the special exhibitions of your favourite museums and give a chance to places that even Greeks do not know very well, those little spaces which reveal interesting stories about the greek society, gastronomy, education as well as everything else you can imagine.

Do not forget that greek history

goes really deep and far into the centuries, while Greek people have been mixed throughout the years with different and numerable populations of other countries and cultures. The beauty of our country, and, of course, of our colourful capital is that we are a spicy and unique mixture of elements that can be found in almost all over the world!

To know us better, there are many ways. One of them, maybe one of the best ways, is a walk to

what is dramatically changing day by day. Plan to visit the places that you want, but also relax and enjoy what your own spontaneous steps in the city will reveal to your eyes! Surprises of knowledge and discovery will be waiting for you…

“

Do not forget to take a photo of your self inside or in front of the museum which stole your hear t and send it to our facebook page “Free Athens”. Flash is forbidden, but photography no!

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4, Korai str.

MEMORIAL SITE 1941-1944 The building which is placed at 4, Korai Str. was built in 1938 by “Τhe Ethniki” Insurance Company. Immediately after the invasion of German troops in Athens, in 1941, it was commanded by the German administration.

The basements of the building were used during the German occupation as the Kommandatur detention facility.

The “Memorial Site 1941-

In the detention chambers, a large number of spike scriptures and inscriptions of the people who passed through these spaces in the period 1941-1944 are preserved, and through their “narrations”, they have bequeathed an important part of modern history of Greece to the next generations.

1944” and the Art Space

The “Memorial Site 1941-1944” functions as a Monument open to the public from Tuesday to Saturday, during the hours: 9: 00-14: 00.

Corporate Social

“STOart KORAI” at 4, Korai str., operate within the framework of the Responsibility of “The Ethniki” Insurance Company, the largest and a longer-lasting insurance company in Greece.

These areas reflect company’s beliefs in the values of art and culture.

More information:

www.korai4.gr facebook.com/Korai4

www.stoart.gr facebook.com/stoartkorai

Art Space “STOart KORAI” The Art Space “STOart KORAI” was founded in 2015 with the aim of becoming an oasis of artistic creation in the center of Athens. Renowned and young artists have the opportunity to exhibit their work without commercial exploitation and to get in touch with the art lovers. Till these days, dozens of individual and group exhibitions have been hosted.

The Venue is Open from Monday to Friday, during the hours: 10: 00-20: 00.

In August, it is closed.

s n e h t A s m u e s u m FREE ATHENS

If you stand a few minutes in Monastiraki Square you can see the history of Athens in 10 minutes.

Recently renovated, the Square was covered with mosaic blocks of marble, stone and carved cast iron, which symbolize the «flows» and the peoples of the Mediterranean.

You can find there the train station (1895) and the metro station (2004). The lines of the metro are meeting the ancient river Iridanos. In front of you, there is the Tzistaraki Mosque (1759), the small Pantanassa Church, which used to be a church only for women during the ottoman domination, as well as a part of Library’s Wall (132 A.C), as a gift from the Roman Emperor Adrianos. Athens Flea Market starts from Monastiraki Square and everybody knows that, after history classes, a shopping therapy is the best that can happen to you!

The best museum of all is…

Can you imagine a museum in which the entrance is free? In which you can speak as loudly as you

want, drink and eat whatever you want? A museum that never closes its doors? Oh, that would be awesome if it was real… And, hopefully, it is. This magical museum is Athens. Even if you have no time to spend in an official museum out there, you can smell the history in every street of this city.

Ancient walls, big stones where maybe a great philosopher standed one day, streets that have

been walked by warriors or famous politician, such as Periklis or Eleftherios Venizelos. Try to understand that history in Athens did not end with the ancient Greeks and Socrates. The continue is even more fascinating: Romans, Bizantine Empire, modern greek history.

In addition, all those years many artists lived and created in Athens, such as famous architects,

poets and musicians. Can you discover their masterpieces which are spread in all over the city? Can you recognize some statues? Are you familiar with names such as Kostis Palamas, Alekos Fasianos, Dimitris Fotiadis, Melina Merkouri? Can you see the signs that lead to the most strategic points of Athens? Religion has played an important role to the evolution of our history.

Beautiful Christian orthodox churches are located everywhere and they are so different from

the catholic ones, which exist in Athens but they are not so many. What about mosques? Our city is the only European capital in which they are not official mosques and the ones which are in function are…illegal and/or unofficial. As for the modern, political and social history of Athens, this can be read in the walls. Mottos and graffitis show the difficult economic situation of our country or shout for freedom, equality and love. History in Athens-and, to be honest, in every city as vivid as it- is written every day…

“

What is your favourite corner of this alive museum? Take a photo and send it to our facebook page “Free Athens”.

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/ 1 Μοnastiriou & Kreontos St. Academy of Plato / t: +30 210 51 42 138 / https://opanda.gr/

ISAP LINE 1/ METRO LINE 3

750 m / MONASTIRAKI

A digital, role model, educational and interactive museum that contains a series of physical exhibits and multimedia applications. Its aim is to highlight the historic and archaeological elements of Academy of Plato, to come closer to the world of Plato’s philosophy ideas with the use of contemporary technology through multiple levels of information, as well as to raise awareness and the participation of the educational community along with civilians in acts of education and culture. Opening hours: Tue-Wed 09:00 - 16:00, closed on Mondays.

The museum has opened its doors since 1980 and is housed in the old mansion of the first Greek lady folklorist, Aggeliki Chatzimichali, in Plaka. Its aim is to spread, conserve and display items of folk art. Collections of folk art items (wood carvings, traditional costumes, embroidery, etc) are among the exhibits, as well as Aggeliki Chatzimichali’s furniture and personal items which are displayed in the same room offering the visitor the ability to take a closer look. Opening hours: Tue-Fri 09:00-19:00, Saturday and Sunday 09:0014:00, closed on Mondays.

/ 6 Aggeliki Chatzimichali St. - Plaka / t: +30 210 32 43 987, +30 210 32 43 972 / https://opanda.gr/

Foto by Dimitrios Nikoloulias

/ 1 Tositsa St. - Athens / t: +30 210 82 32 950

METRO LINE 2

The Epigraphic Museum houses the largest collection of ancient Greek inscriptions, the primary historical sources, that provide valuable information for the economic, politic, religious and social life of ancient times. It stores 14078 inscriptions on stone, deriving mostly from Attica, but also from other areas of the ancient Greek world dating from the 8th cent. BC. till the later times. Most of them are written in ancient Greek language, few in latin and a small number in other languages.

Digital Museum Academy of Plato Municipality of Athens

850 m / METAXOURGHIO

850 m / VICTORIA

ISAP LINE 1

EPIGRAPHIC MUSEUM

Museum of Folk Art and Tradition“ Aggeliki Chatzimichali,” Municipality of Athens

/ 9 Κodrou St., extension of Voulis St. Plaka , 105 58 Athens / t: +30 210 33 12 621, +30 210 33 12 750 / www.childrensartmuseum.gr / fb: MouseioEllinikisPaidikisTechnis

Museum of Asia Minor Hellenism ISAP LINE 1 / BUS B9 & 619 / TROLLEY 3 & 6

The Museum of Greek Children’s Art is one of the very few of its kind in Greece and worldwide that exhibits exclusively drawings and three dimensional artwork created by children 5 to 14 years old. The Museum, founded in 1994 focuses on education through art. The 24 years of experience addressing exclusively to the child by using the artists’ language, differentiate the Museum of Greek Children’s Art from other Institutions.

2 khm / PERISSOS

/ 1-3 Diogenous St., 105 56 Athens / t: +30 210 32 54 119, +30 210 32 54 129 / e-mail: melmofake@culture.gr

Museum of Greek Children`s Art

METRO LINES 2, 3

The “Museum of Greek Folk Instruments ‘Fivos Anoyanakis’ – Centre of Ethnomusicology” was founded in 1991 and it is run by the Greek Ministry of Culture. The Museum hosts a large collection of musical instruments (compiled for the most part by Fivos Anoyanakis) dating from the 18th c. onwards. The instruments, as well as representations of people using them in various occasions, have been selected mainly for their ethnomusicological value, but the visitors will also appreciate their aesthetic value.

Opening hours: Tuesday-Sunday: 8:00 – 15:00 Monday: Closed

550 m / SYNTAGMA

ISAP LINE 1 / METRO LINE 3

400 m / MONASTIRAKI

Museum of Greek Folk Instruments “ Fivos Anoyanakis” Center of Ethnomusicology

The Museum of Asia Minor Hellenism “Filio Chaidemenou”, in Nea Filadelfia, presents three thematic sections. The visitor can observe various objects that belonged to the refugees, the way of living, the customs and the traditional values of the Greek communities, as well as the events that led to the destruction of the Asia Minor Hellenism in 1922.

The Museum is open to the public from Monday to Friday, 9.00 – 18.00.

/ 152 L. Dekelias & Attalias St., Nea Filadelfia / t: +30 213 20 49 155-6

s i s i h T s n e h t A FREE ATHENS

Just as in Berlin, your best bet to savor the alternative culture is to pay attention to the DIY posters on the walls.

All the special happenings will await there.

A lot of the underground culture is literally located underground. Look downward at the entrances of what used to be cellars and storage rooms, as often they conceal unusual shops and cozy cafes.

Do not be surprised by the street names of Schliemman and Ziller. German archeologists and architects played an important role in morphing the early years of Greece as a sovereign country.

Artisan workshops and thrift stores can tell you as much about a city’s history as a museum. Berlin and Athens are lucky to have a generous collection of those.

Do not miss the opportunity to look into a few years of recent history through everyday items.

Welcome to Athens… the new Berlin?

A european capital

famous for its multicultural art scene and underground culture. A place where something is happening at all times. A youthful community that’s alive and evolving. A city that doesn’t posses the iconic Parisian style, nor London’s polished manners. Instead, it’s full of graffiti, emerging cult neighborhoods and boho corners.

Need more detail? It’s a city that was oppressed and divided. A city where hard times inspired and fueled the artists, the alternative voices, the hidden culture. Where innovation became a necessity in design, circular economy or recycling. A city where abandoned buildings became art spaces and creation hubs. A city with more museums than you can visit. A city that got tired of the old rules and wrote new ones, to fit this unique sociocultural spot in history.

Need more hints?

To the traveler it’s multifaced. You can both find a hipster eatery and a traditional festival on the street. Beer flows in abundance. Under the thin mainstream coating, one can find a myriad unexplored bars, clubs and little joints of like – minded weirdos.

Need more context? It’s a multicultural crossroads. A place of integration of the eastern into the western. A place were natives and immigrants have mixed into a colorful maze along the years. A place with a historic background, that left a permanent mark on its face and its ways.

That’s Athens for you.

Many have compared it’s upcoming creative vibe to the iconic scene of Berlin. It’s true that cities can resemble more than you know and it’s great how fast can trends spread these days. However cities outlive trends. Cities move in history like magnificent beasts full of stories.

Let’s hear out what else has the greek capital to recount, before we put any labels.

“

Did you know that Athens also had a wall?

An ancient wall, but not exactly like Berlin’s.

Everyone on the inside were citizens.

Everyone on the outside – foreigners.

Take a picture at the very gates the Greeks used to enter to the town: Dipylon (Kerameikos arxheological site)

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13 ATHENS CITY MUSEUM BISTROT

290 m / PANEPISTIMIO

METRO LINE 2

THE BLACKDUCK GARDEN You wouldn’t guess that such a beautiful place can be found in the heart of the city. Black Duck is a secret garden hidden in Klafthmonos square. It is a summertime oasis full of green trees, flowers and a fountain. It was the first public garden in Athens organized by queen Amalia, king Ottos wife back in 1836. Located next to Athens City Museum, an all day bistrot where you can enjoy quality food, coffee and signature cocktails. Black Duck loves art! Check out the facebook page / site for all the artistic projects and events that take place in the garden. Listen to the music, smell the jasmine, feel the sun, read a book, enjoy your brunch or dinner and taste the experience of the Black Duck.

/ 5-7 Ioanou Paparigopoulou St. Athens / t: +30 210 32 52 396 / http://blackduckgarden.gr / fb: BlackDuckGarden

COFFEE, SPIRITS & MORE

450 m / METAXOURGHIO

METRO LINE 2

SAORSA ATHENS If you want to find yourself in an old-fashioned Athenian garden to witness the layers of time depicted in the colours, the materials and the shutters, you must come to SAORSA, the Scottish word for liberty. It is similar to a setting of a play, plain and aesthetically high, since the people who run it (three sisters to be exact!) are very much aware of what they are doing. And that is how this relaxing set was created transmitting the best vibes to your aura that is well worth a visit.

Away from the hustle and bustle of the city you can sample not only our homemade and preservativefree juices, coffee and chocolate blends, but also exceptional wine varieties, fruity cocktails with yuzu, maracuya, papaya etc., long drinks και aperitivos. Aesthetic harmony is bound with the environment by soul, jazz, funky and swing music playing in the backround.

/ 2 Giatrakou St. - Metaxourgio / t: +30 210 52 35 960 / fb: saorsaathens

s i s i h T s n e h t A FREE ATHENS

Athens does not have ghettos.

The new and old inhabitants of the city mixed gradually over the years, so there is no place absolutely prohibited to the visitor.

There is a strong presence of middle eastern culture around Koumoundourou square, as well as Georgian and Chinese communities.

Eastern European and African communities are spread alongside Patision avenue.

Even in the midst of an area occupied by a certain community, you will find artistic lofts on the rooftops, elderly Athenians in neoclassical mansions and traditional shops.

There is no map more efficient in navigating a new city than instinct.

If a place feels odd or a conversation bothersome, just walk away.

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or a typical Chinatown?

There are areas

in this city that seem to belong elsewhere. They are full of narrow streets, sometimes lit and sometimes submerged in the twilight. Electric lights are glitching, the city dust is settling slowly on the pavements. At a dead- end a door opens. Someone enters the low edifice, throwing a glance behind his back.

That could be a great

opening for a detective novel, except not in Athens. Just a few streets away the main road would be buzzing with nightlife. A couple of neighbors would be loudly arguing about noise pollution. The mysterious man would have probably just entered the back door of a tavern, to start his shift. In a few minutes he would be dressed in a white T-shirt, inviting you to try the original souvlaki, without any tangible criminal intent.

Athens has a lot of different sides to it. The maze of shops, old and new, hit by the crisis and not

as polished as you’d wish, may look shabby to some. The city center, hosting a few of the immigrant communities thanks to low rent cost and job availability can seem a bit erratic. There are dark alleys and there are red lights that are best avoided, like everywhere. We are not going to lie and put a pretty facade, because Athens’ is a straightforward city. What you see is what you get.

Yet, if you are feeling

a bit adventurous and open to discoveries, you can try to lose yourself in the labyrinth of old workshops in Psirri. You can ask the Pakistani shop owner how’s life in Greece. You could enjoy the traditional song on the taxi radio, while stuck in midday traffic. You could haggle with the merchant on the street market and get a “local” price.

Even the most trivial neighborhood, even the most boring tourist shop, have their story. The clues may be subtle, you will have to embark on an asking quest to learn their how’s and why’s, but they’re worth it. In the end you will learn real stories about real people and that’s the only souvenir that’s unique in this world.

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For a feeling of genuine open air mar ket, head towards Kotzia square at midday, whe n all the delicacy shops are open.

Don’t forget to take a picture with

the herbs and spices!

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CHINESE TAKE-AWAY RESTAURANT

ITALIAN - STREET - PASTA

MICROULEE A few meters away from Exarchia square you may find the spot that offers authentic chinese street food! It’s exactly what you need to keep on wandering through the streets and alleys observing people, buildings and the hustle of the city. Any type of noodles, sweet and sour minced pork, spring rolls, shrimps, wonton and of course Sushi are available here! Take a look at their cooks while preparing your food in front of you and blend with their Asian tastes. You should try everything!

700 m / OMONIA ISAP LINE 1 / METRO LINE 2

Asian Food & SUSHI

ISAP LINE 1 / METRO LINE 2

250 m / OMONIA

WABI SABI Located down town, near Omonoia square Wabi Sabi is a very convienent place to get down to for your lunch, dinner or even for a coffee or a snack break during your town wonderings.

Fresh sushi and salads, great chinese and asian cuisine,ramen,pho and asian noodles soups, specialty coffee and desserts are being served all day long.Highly recommended by Google and TripAdvisor.

/ 9 Emmanouil Benaki St. - 106 78 Athens / t: +30 210 33 06 562 / https://wabisabi.gr/ / fb: Wabi Sabi

/ 14 Stournara St. - Exarchia / t: +30 210 38 00 672 / http://microulee.gr/ / fb: microulee

PUTTANESCA How about authentic Italian food in the center of Athens? Puttanesca is the first street gourmet restaurant in Athens. Street food but at the same time the best quality pasta in original Italian recipes. Every meal is made with passion based on the taste and preferences of each client in a combination of gourmet kitchen and take away prices!

Panini, pasta, Risotto and insalate! We have tried their fine dessert “Bicchiere” which you also should do!

350 m / OMONIA ISAP LINE 1 / METRO LINE 2

/ 17 Emmanouil Benaki St. Exarchia / t: +30 210 38 10 162 http://puttanesca.business.site/ / fb: Puttanesca

s i s i h T s n e h t A FREE ATHENS

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Athens is old. 5.000 years old. One of the oldest cities in the world.

The “s” in Athens is intentional. It´s plural. Many small settlements formed the conglomeration that nowadays is known as the greek capital.

Athens’ harbor is Pireus. In ancient Greece, Pireus was a separate settlement, connected to Athens via the Long Walls.

It was also their escape route in case of siege or attack.

Athens does not have a timetable.

A good night out goes on until at least 6a.m., whereas during the midday siesta some of the shops remain closed.

or maybe it´s just Athens…

Many things

can be told about the history, the municipal organization, the landmarks and the entertainment in Athens. We don’t like to deliver old news. So here’s a fresh look.

If Athens was a color, it would be crimson red. The same red you see on the “akrokerama”, the

traditional roof tiles that stand out beautifully against the blue sky. The red of melting iron in a forge.

Athens is brewing with life, constantly transforming, forging a contemporary identity in a time of many changes. Athens is boiling, sometimes because of the weather, but more often because of the citizen movements, the protests, the debates, the latest political news. It is a city with an opinion.

If Athens was a shape

it would be a triangle. It always looks up towards the sun, with it’s hills, it’s ancient temples, it’s rooftop gardens. It’s heart s also a triangle: the city center between Omonia, Monastiraki and Sintagma squares contains most of the commercial traffic. Even the narrow alleys and cobbled streets that crisscross each other in the older districts form small triangular islands of neoclassical mansions full of unusual shops.

If Athens was a flavor it would be cinnamon. A strong aroma, coming from the east, but so

deeply mixed with the western culture, you cannot tell them apart anymore. A spice well loved in the greek cuisine, especially after the arrival of the refugees from Asia Minor in early 20th century, who doubled the urban population and the gastronomic delights. Sweet yet strong, that is how Athens’ temperament is best described.

If Athens was a type of coffee, it would be a freddo capuccino – a greek twist on the italian

tradition. It’s more than a beverage: an opportunity for connecting, a great companion on a walk in the historical center, a little something to brighten the routine. Athens can be either refined and hip or simple and fun, depending on the location and the occasion.

If Athens wasn’t a city, it could be a lot of things. However,

experience. Just Athens.

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it would always be a unique

Athens is built on at least 7 hills.

Try the Areios Pagos hill (Vrachakia ) in the evening for an unforgettable picture of the cityscape .

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Mediterranean restaurant

900 m / VICTORIA

ISAP LINE 1

KIVELI You will find ‘Kiveli’ on a beautiful round square decorated with an astonishing statue in a classic, historical and renovated neighbourhood of Athens. Here you will taste flavours that combine the Mediterranean and Greek cuisine including new approaches that will surprise you! The breezy atmosphere in the summer, delicious food, affordable prices and gastronomic innovations are waiting for you. You will definitely take note of their fancy decoration as you enjoy your meal. Addresses all ages!

/ 15 Eptanisou St. - Athens / t: +30 210 82 19 406 / fb: Kivelirest

FREE ATHENS

Urban art Greek art has undergone its ups and downs throughout history, starting from the golden era of ancient Greece, evolving towards the byzantine period, marked by early Christianity, taking a dive into traditional craftsmanship during the medieval era and reemerging in the last century to claim its place in the international art scene.

Apart from the visual art, Greece is well known for its contemporary dance productions.

It is worth seeking out the seasonal performances of small companies.

Many can be found around Gazi and Thiseio.

The best known branch of authentically greek art is theater.

Why not take a photo just below Acropolis, in front of the legendary Herod Atticus Odeon, to hear the whispers of past generations?

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FREE ATHENS

Some of the most distinctive works have been graduation projects by students of the Higher School of Fine Arts. Pavlos Tsakonas for example, made an impressive Durer inspired drawing on the number 20 of Pireos street to make the passerby question the meaning of praying.

Some of the graffiti tell whole stories: if you turn to Sarri street, in Psiri, you may find a pair of adorable dog eyes staring at you. This would be “Loukanikos”, the legendary stray DOG who accompanied protestors in every demonstration and fought the policemen.

Make a game out of admiring the art.

Try to identify an artist’s personal style and look for his works in different areas of the city. Collect as many as you can with your camera.

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Graffiti

The first graffiti artist that made it out of the underground circles goes by the name of TAKI

183. Coincidentally, his origin is quite Greek and he grew up in an immigrant neighborhood in Manhattan. His signature (know as “tag” in graffiti slang) could be found all around Manhattan and made it to the papers. The wave of tag competition he created was the predecessor of modern graffiti culture.

The spirit of street art, with its revolutionary, non – conformist aspect is very much in tune with

the athenian restlessness. A densely populated city of many cultures, of considerable social differences and one that goes through tough times is the dream of any creative with a voice that needs to be heard. If you take into account the number of unused buildings and the greyness of the cityscape, it adds up to an inviting canvas.

You don’t have to chase graffiti in Athens. It will find you itself. However, a few areas embellished

by great works are the rebellious Exarchia neighborhood, the industrial Gazi area and the labyrinth of Psiri. Here, you don’t merely get to see some random drawings made by local aficionados, but works of art by names worldwide known: iNO, WD, Alekos Skoutariotis, Vaggelis Chrousoglou, Stamatis, Achilles Skitsofrenis have all made their contribution to vivify the walls of the city.

Graffiti in Athens makes it to the news quite often: mostly to start a debate about the

appropriateness of some spaces versus others (graffiti regularly appears on historical buildings, reinventing their facade). Although we can eternally argue about what art is “real” art, one thing is for sure: an outlet of expression that is alive and beating, that is contemporary and moving has a right to be represented. An art form free and accessible that aims to humanize the concrete jungle is one to be reckoned with. A message screaming from the wall is worth listening to. What do you think?

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If you want a guaranteed backgrou nd for an urban picture, choose to pose at the end of Ermou boulevard in front of the old bus depot in Gazi.

Send the photo to our facebook page “Free Athens”.

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handmade

ISAP LINE 1 / METRO LINE 3

350 m / MONASTIRAKI

To Kompoloi Tou Psirri Here you will grasp the idea of what a KOMPOLOI is and the culture that accompanies it. You will have to choose among dozens of items and materials such as amber, aromatics and semi-precious stones all creatively and tastefully made.

You will have to chance to feel them, play with them, listen to their sound, and you must trust your touch and find the one that fits your hand and your style. There are many types of ‘kompoloi’ of course! In days of old every Athenian man had his own kompoloi, an irreplaceable accessory for relaxing moments.

/ 13 Ag. Anargiron St. - Psiri / t: 210 32 43 012 / kobojewels.gr / fb: TO KOMPOLOI TOY PSIRRI

Hand made creations

ISAP LINE 1 / METRO LINE 3

350 m / MONASTIRAKI

KARTOUSA ART SHOP KARTOUSA

A shop dedicated to people who appreciate and support Greek and alternative handicrafts. Jewellery and craftworks made with care and creativity. Each and every one of their creations unfolds its history.

/ 9 Taki St. - Psirri / t: +30 210 32 47 525 / http://kartousa.blogspot.com/ / fb: Kartousa

with artistry in faith

ISAP LINE 1 / METRO LINE 2

750 m / OMONIA

APERGES & CO No folklore, only genuine, wellmannered, handmade, byzantine icons of exceptional beauty, the way a millennium of religious spirituality and timeless aesthetics have conquered.

Take an authentic reminiscence of the Byzantian Empire’s heartbeat with you at a handy price… and cherish it preciously …

/ 22 Kapodistriou St. 106 82 Athens / t: 210 32 13 989 / www.aperges.com

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FREE ATHENS

Don’t miss the opportunity to listen to the traditional greek laterna, a kind of push-trolley with a music box heavily adorned with flowers and playing popular greek retro songs.

As you enjoy a performance, please stay aware of your belongings.

Pickpockets choose crowds and distracted travelLers to conduct their business.

Probably the most famous street musicians were a native american band, complete with costumes and traditional instruments.

Their atmospheric songs came to be associated with any walk on Monastiraki.

On Mondays, at the little park at the end of Ermou street near Gazi, tangueros of the city gather for a night milonga, known in the social media as “Milonga Dromou”. If you love the sound of tango music and especially if you dance, this is a must.

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The street show Even in this city of theaters and music venues, there aren’t enough walls to contain all the

performances. The center is buzzing with the sounds of diverse musical instruments, DIY stages welcome solo performers of all trades and b-boys jam in the middle of a walking crowd. In this circus of genres and arts, who will be the lucky one to lure you?

Will it be the musical

ensemble on Ermou playing famous classical compositions? Or the african band entrancing you on Monastiraki square with their drums? Maybe the lone rock busker on Thiseio?

Or the traditional rebetiko by a group of young alternative musicians on Dionysiou Aeropagitou boulevard? Are you per chance a fan of exotic, handmade instruments and otherworldly voices that can be heard on Apostolou Pavlou? Still not quite to your taste? Probably you are more of a street theater fan. Then you will be charmed by living statues and mimes, jugglers and clowns, populating the city center once the evening settles in.

These contemporary bards and troubadours perform in the old way, when there is nothing

dividing actors and audience. Their backdrop is their city and their fee is your attention. It’s up to you to decide whether their art is worth it. It is a fair trade, based on honest feelings. They choose to perform for you. You choose whether to watch or not. Whether to applaud or not. Whether to pay or not. No strings attached. Except for those of the street puppeteers with their dancing dolls on Aiolou street.

The street spectacle never stops. Even when the midday heat drives away the big crowds and the

aspiring artists, the performance continues. The proverbial torch is passed on to the dance of shadows and light between the rooftops, the singing cats in front of tavernas and the juggling act of waiters.

All you have to do now is find a great seat and enjoy, since the show will go on, as it always must.

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A different kind of art can be foun d on Pittaki street, in Psiri. A local installation featuring doze ns of lampshades and lights has become a popular phot o spot. Be quick!

After 6 years of operation, the proje ct may be uninstalled in July 2018 and never return again .

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BAR

350 m / SYNTAGMA

METRO LINES 2, 3

LOSER In Syntagma you can find many bars but you have to struggle to find the special ones. ‘Loser’ is one of them!

This success lies on their smiley waiting staff that loves chit chat but loves making beverages and cocktails even more! Monkeys and tropical plants are in the background as well as puns in the menu for cinema-lovers. ‘Losers’ has an evident personality that can’t go unnoticed. If you want to meet the Athenians, flirt or be drifted by the good vibes, then its bar counter is the perfect place for you!

/ 45-47 Voulis St. - Syntagma / t: +30 213 04 48 535 / fb: Loser bar

CAFE - BAR

ISAP LINE 1 / METRO LINE 2

900 m / OMONIA

INTRIGA “Intriga” is the oldest bar in the area working ceaselessly since 1981. It is located in a cobbled street right in the heart of Exarchia among the picturesque neoclassical houses and bitter orange trees infused by the spirits and the scents of the area. In case you are interested in experiencing the real-life Athens you should come here! Here you can have a good cup of coffee in the morning (opens at 11:00 p.m.), juice or eat some snack. “Intriga” is a café bar of two floors and its decoration is not just a detail, but the differentiator in what is considered to be tasteful and classic. Their polite waiting staff serves only unadulterated drinks, cocktails and beer varieties. Here you can pick out of many draft beers and labels as well as the only draft Guinness in the area! Many dj sets take place and Intriga is totally alternative/rock music oriented. A music bar made out of history in Exarchia!

/ 60 Dervenion St. - Exarchia / t: +30 210 33 00 936 / fb: Intriga Cafe Bar

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FREE ATHENS

Some of the most dedicated cinema fans admit that in their youth, they would spend hours and hours at the “therina” cinemas, watching the same movie two or three times, because that was the most “in” place to be.

Don’t worry about the language barrier. Very few movies in Greece are dubbed, the vast majority are screened in their original language with greek subtitles.

Mosquitoes in Athens seem to be especially fond of quality movies.

Bring your insect repellent to the cinema!

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A midsummer night’s cinema Imagine a cool summer night just after the heat of the day has subsided. The breeze brings sweet flower scents to your nostrils, while the sky lightens ups with myriads of stars. The ice cubes slowly melting in your glass sing the melody of holiday season. Amazing, right?

And the movie hasn’t even started yet.

Open air cinemas,

the so-called “therina” (from the greek word for summer, “theros”) are the go-to entertainment source during the hot months in Athens. They are much less formal than their usual counterparts, with a cozy, roof garden vibe to them. Decorated with flower pots and paved with gravel, equipped with the famous director’s chairs and small coffee tables, they resemble more a home screening at the beach than a high-tech cinematic experience with ultramodern sound systems and 4D technologies. That is not to say that the quality of screening is not satisfying. It’s just more human.

As far as film options

are concerned, the range is not entirely mainstream. Naturally, you will find your occasional romantic flick or summer comedy, but some days will be dedicated to less known indie movies and the European cinema. Some owners have a soft spot for the retro classics and you can stumble upon truly rare screenings of beloved oldies.

“Therina” cinemas

Some cinemas offer traditional snacks, such as loukoumades (essentially greek donuts with honey).

To take advantage of the experience to the maximum, try them with walnuts and cinnamon.

generally emit a vintage aura, one that transports you back to the golden movie era, when television was a sought after commodity and the cinema lens was the only path towards the big world out there. Locals confess that back in those times, if they couldn’t afford a ticket, they would literally climb on rooftops and balconies to watch the new production.

So if you’re after an authentic greek summer experience, open air cinema is a must. After all,

exploring the city all day long can be really tiring. Why not allow yourself to be enchanted by the magic of cinematography in the most suiting setting?

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Are you a cinema fan? Take a pictu re in front of the Zefiros Open Air cinema in Petralona (36, Troon str.). It has a very distinctive, totally retro facade. Of course, you can send it to our facebook page “Free Athens”.

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CINEMA

CINEMA

AΤHINAIA

PANATHINAIA

In Kolonaki, one of the most classic neighbourhoods of Athens, you can find the most historical open-air cinema of the city. Keep up with the cinema’s schedule and give yourself the experience of a breezy night out. European and American movies as well as reissues will bring you joy in this exceptionally beautiful environment. Deep green, refreshing beverages and a bar with special cocktails are waiting for you in an unrivaled combination of culture, summer breeze and relaxation. Don’t forget to sample our cheese pie! it’s truly marvellous!

When the dark falls right in the heart of our city, the multi-purpose entertainment venue ‘Panathinaia’ hosts acts, events, stand-up comedies and, of course, movies for the fans of high quality cinema. Screening of this year’s distinguished movies is available as well as reissued movies for all kinds of taste. Discover the program of the cinema and spend a lovely night in this authentic athenian home of culture. And don’t forget to look up in the sky from time to time!

400 m / EVANGELISMOS METRO LINE 3

/ 50 Haritos St. - Kolonaki / t: +30 211 41 30 430 / www.cineathinaia.gr / fb: CineAthinaia

1 khm / AMBELOKIPI METRO LINE 3

/ 165 Mauromihali St. - Ambelokipi / t: +30 210 64 25 714 / www.cinepanathinaia.gr / fb: Cine Panathinaia

FREE ATHENS

n i k l a w A s d oo h r u o b h neig No stress. Here is Athens, the city with the one thousand faces. Behind the traffic and the noise of the big boulevards, there are picturesque streets and alleys where the real residents walk before and after job, fight and fall in love.

Cats, graffitis, “secret bars”, cheap and real greek tavernas, old people with their grandchildren, immigrants from all over the world.

The words synthesis and antithesis are of course greek and, coming to Athens, you are going to understand the reason.

Syntagma is not only the Parliament.

Kerameikos is not only Gazi square.

Kolonaki is not only Benaki museum. People in their balconies smoke and talk, while delicious odours from the bakeries and the restaurants can sweetly daze you.

Music from every corner, live or not, can make your mood.

Come on! Athens is to be walked…

Extra Tip: Can you see the differences between the day and the night life in the same city? Oh, yes, there are plenty of those…

n i k l a w A oo h r u o b h g i e n FREE ATHENS

Different crowds populate different areas. Try and notice 5 differences between the people you encounter at Syntagma square versus the legendary Exarchia neighborhood

“Monastiraki” square is a great place to find adorable weirdos and every other type of Athenian. Make a point of it to take at least one photo with every interesting being you meet. The entrance of the metro station (which is 120 years old) is a good spot.

There is no right or wrong way to explore the city. If you prefer a big group, you are sure to have a smoother and more planned holiday. If you are lone wanderer you will discover some hidden treasures that no guide can describe.

The city is not a static scenery. It can show whatever you choose to see.

Looking for an unusual photo opportunity?

Choose a zebra crossing in the center and blend in the crowd. An all time favorite is between Voukourestiou and Panepistimiou streets.

The most annoying types of GREEKS The “krachtis”

(from the greek verb krazo: to shout) barker, person employed to solicit customers by calling out to passersby A high pitched voice and a lifelong tendency for exaggeration are the distinctive qualities of this breed of urban persona.

Whether you meet them at their professional capacity in front of a tavern or you make their acquaintance by chance, you will immediately recognize their characteristic manner of speaking: a lot of adjectives combined with a lot of false information, built on cheap marketing techniques from the 80s. They can convince you that anything, from their favorite local cafe to some miraculous vitamins for hair loss is the solution to your lifelong existential struggle. Worst of all, they tend to advertise themselves with the same passion of a retired car dealer. Take their words with a grain of salt and pretend it’s part of the audiovisual background.

The “Hellen”

(Ancient Greek: Ἕλλην, Hellēn, «bright») was the progenitor of the Hellenes (Ἕλληνες). His name is also another name for Greek.

This is usually a specimen that speaks foreign languages very approximately, but praises himself on his knowledge and devotion to all the aspects of greek tradition. In the few words he operates he can describe centuries of greek history, proving without a doubt how greeks invented everything there is to invent, including space travel and chinese dumplings.

According to him, his beloved country is cheated and mistreated by everyone, including but not limited to politicians, immigrants, non- christians and small domestic animals. Their beliefs however can come from a good place, one of genuine national pride. Skip the simplistic interpretation and you may get invaluable info about the best hidden spots to visit, known only to locals.

The “poliascholos”

(from greek poli (many) + ascholia (occupation) a busy person, one with many activities This urban mammal comes with equipment: a bluetooth, a smartphone and a tablet at all times. He is on non stop communication with the office, resolving crisis after crisis 24/7. Unfortunately, this one lives in a parallel world: one where there is no beauty in the cityscape, where traffic is a deliberate sabotage of his personal goals, where other people exist merely as obstacles on his course to the “IMPORTANT” place. If you think of yourself as a kid, he is what all grown-ups look like at some point. He simply forgot how to notice details, how to meet new people, how to take a new exciting route just for the sake of discovery. Maybe offer him a smile, you never know when that inner kid will wake up.

The most annoying types of TOURISTS The selfie-ish

This is the sticky type. Sticky in terms of auxiliary devices for commemorating the same smiling version of themselves against different backgrounds. Even when not armed with sticks, they are still dangerous. They perceive the world through the lens of a camera, with their worst nightmare being running out of battery. They do not live, they document the life around them. Unfortunately, most of the time they miss the most juicy details, because they are slightly out of focus. Take care: these individuals rarely notice physical obstacles and moving objects, so be gentle and cautious. Lastly, don’t forget to photobomb their creations at every chance. At least, that way they will be some real life going on on the pictures.

The pedant

That’s the type of knowledgeable traveler you encounter in front of every long and obscure historical note in the museum.

They have done their research and know how everything SHOULD work. If the timetables of the archeological site are slightly different from what was written in the tour guide, they make a point out of demonstrating it to every single person in their immediate reach. If by chance they weren’t able to visit every single landmark on their 5 page list, the whole trip wasn’t worth it. These scholarly fellows are good for getting precious historic data, so shadow them while sightseeing and then just wander off to live the really important experiences.

The snob

These otherworldly creatures come from a mythical land of luxury and self-righteousness. Nothing is ever good enough for their refined taste. The streets are too dirty, the traffic too busy, the metro too hot, the sea too cold. Mostly, no service is ever adequate for the price they are paying and they believe there can be a price for everything. They never set foot in the interesting places because they are not mainstream or polished. They never taste the home made food because the tavernas are not fancy. They never joke with the locals, because they are afraid to communicate informally.

So let them be grumpy and just take in all of the fun yourselves.

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BAR

220 m / SYNTAGMA

METRO LINES 2, 3

BARRELDIER From very early morning: varietal and specialty coffees – cold, warm, and cold brew.

All day: snacks, salads, and foods – well known for our 200 gr beef burgers. Emphasis on products from all over Greece.

From afternoon: • Aperitivi and cocktails.

• Liqueurs, syrups, bitters, fruit purees, vermouths: all house made; we don’t use ready-made, commercial products.

• Cocktails aged up to one year in oak barrels, jars, and glass bonbon jars.

• Mario Basso’s favorites: vermouth and the golden age of prohibition • Barreldier’s bar and Mario Basso are multi-awarded • Our motto: We love the old and respect the new.

Whether aged or not, forgotten or timeless, classic or innovative, each has its place in the bar within a harmony of tastes, sights, smells, and sounds.

/ 7 Voulis St. - Stoa Bolani / t: +30 210 32 54 711 / fb: Barreldier

n i k l a w A oo h r u o b h g i e n FREE ATHENS

The shot in greek is “sfinaki” and the many shots are “sfinakia”.

Maybe the barman offers to you a shot.

The tradition says that, after him, it’s your turn.

Greek people usually prefer tequila or vodka shots. Attention to the dangerous “ipovrihio”!

No, we will not tell you whAt it is. Discover, please…

In Greece we accompany our food mainly with beer, wine, ouzo or tsipouro, not with other spirits or even cocktails as Americans do. But, we love making the best combinations with our traditional drinks and liquors, creating in this way, special and tasty cocktails. Mastiha, a liquor form the greek island Chios, can make the difference in the hands of an experienced mixologist.

When you drink, you say “cheers” or “serefe” or “salute” or…. In Greece, we say “giamas”, which means “health to us”.

Healthy and happy people can enjoy a glass of fine alcohol and keep a balance in their drinking habits, can’t they?

After drinking in your favourite Athenian bar, you can grab your beer that has not finished yet and enjoy it in a square or in a bench, having a look around you to the stree artists, the people passing by and the magical Athenian night.

Giamas!

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Bars

Night life in Athens is really unique. Less than big, fancy clubs Athenians prefer to enjoy their beer,

wine or drink in a bar. We listen to the special music choices of the djs, we can discuss, laugh and relax, talk with the bartenders, drink some extra shots with our friends. Without spending very much, a night in a bar can be really marvelous. In Greece, we accompany our drink with water and snacks (peanuts, potato chips, carrot and cucumber slices, pop corn) and, of course, good company. We take photos, we discuss the news of the day, we flirt out of Tinder or Grindr. In our bars, any adult can taste anything! Not only the classic drinks, such as vodka, gin and scotch but, a well, our traditional drinksouzo, mastiha, local wines, tsipouro- in breathtaking cocktail editions. Bartenders and baristi in Athens offer drink services of high quality and they can suggest the drink which fits with our personal taste.

By the way, the history of Athenian bars and, in general, of alcohol tradition in our city is important and really interesting. There is a legendary man in the history of Athens nightlife, named Fotis Krikzonis. He had his own bar, the “17”, and is considered as the “first Greek barman”. He introduced the cocktails to the Greeks and he had served behind his bar famous politicians and artists from all over the world. Frank Sinatra was one of them.

The new age

in Athenian night life, from the aspect of bars, is the evolution of most places as “all day bar restaurants”, in which people share the same table and someone can drink coffee or someone else maybe eats a slice of pizza, while the other enjoys his second vodka lemon.

Walking in the streets and having your eyes and ears open, you are going to find the place which is made for you. Rock bars, tapas bars, jazzy-soul “drinkeries”, smaller or bigger places, barmen with or without tattoos, expensive and luxury choices, or low budget but still high quality destinations are here, next to you.

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Take a photo with your favourite drink in the bar you liked the most and sent it to our facebook page, “Free Athens”!

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COCKTAIL BAR

BAR

220 m / SYNTAGMA METRO LINES 2, 3

/ 7 Voulis St. - Syntagma / t: +30 210 32 19 225 / fb: the7jokers.official

ALL DAY BAR

ISAP LINE 1

BILATZ

900 m / VICTORIA

Juan rodriguez

7 JOKERS

Right in the heart of Athens the hault for original Athenians won’t be left unnoticed. In a theatrical background and fairytale-like sensation you will enter a magic world. The world of a fairytale-like cocktail! Their cellar has so many brands and labels that will make you google them! The bartenders will create a drink for you according to your taste and preference. You will get to know Athenians from other shops in the area (operating as an after) and others that chose 7 Jokers from the first glance!

Saint George’s Square in Kypseli is one of the best kept secrets in Athens. A small, round square located in the centre of Athens, only 15 minutes away from the National museum and really close to Patision avenue. “Ιt’s a Βίλατζ” is a small and cozy coffee bar, a meeting point for the locals and a «must visit place» for every Athenian. This is the perfect spot to enjoy your morning coffee, fresh juices and breakfast from the all day menu. The atmosphere is casual and the staff friendly.

Different dj’s set every night in groovy and alternative tunes to accompany your drink or signature cocktail from the menu.

/ Ag. Georgiou Square - Kypseli / t: +30 210 82 20 222 / fb: Bilatz

It’s one of the most special bars in town and you won’t find it easily unless you walk by it randomly. But everyone who passes by comes in intrigued by its eccentric aesthetics.

Juan Rodriguez is a fictional entity that characterises the environment with his latin American nature. This place is the combination of many inspirations of the people who created it. The drinks, the cocktails, the cuisine and the sweets you are going to sample are just as special as the place. Nowhere near to a usual and conventional shop. Open from morning to late at night, also one of the few resto bars in town where dinner is served until late at night. I higly recommend it!

400 m / MONASTIRAKI ISAP LINE 1 / METRO LINE 3

/ 3 Pallados St. - Psirri / t: +30 210 32 24 496 / fb: Juan Rodriguez Bar Compania de Bebida

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There are so many places where the combination “coffee and snack” costs you less than buying them separately. Check it, please!

Vegan and vegetarian choices cannot be found only in vegan and vegetarian restaurants. Almost everywhere, you will find food without meat or animal derivatives.

By the way, vegetables in Greece are so, so tasty!

Bread for us is a basic ingredient.

It can be the main meal of the day, especially if you accompany it with feta cheese and tomato. So much summer and greek minimalism in a plate!

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Salty snacks & sweets Circulating in this city, it is logical to feel hungry.

Not only because of walking, but as well because of all of those scents that make you naughty from here and from there. The solutions are many: a taverna, a restaurant, the choice of some street food ... This is true for every traveler, in any city. But in Athens, the choices are even more.

It’s time to disclose, though it is not difficult to understand from yourself ... In Athens there’s food everywhere. Literally everywhere. In every coffee shop, bistro, or even bar bar that you enter, there is for you what we say in greek “meze”, meaning something small but tasty, something that can be easily shared in a company of friends, usually among glasses full of beer, wine or anything you want.

Are you of those who when they say that they are hungry they mean that they want something

sweet? Don’ t worry, we will not let you stay complained. How about a croissant or a handmade cake with fruits and chocolate? Sounds good and it can be found almost everywhere, inside the more traditional cafes or even in front of your eyes! Don’ t think that we mean only the central spots of Athens.

Let’s not forget to tell you that us, the Greeks, love sandwiches, crepes, toasts and club sandwiches very much. Often, we accompany our afternoon coffee with a snack like those or we get our food on hand to eat it while walking to the metro and our next appointment.

Oh yes,

we are really busy sometimes. But we rarely forget to “put something in our mouth”, as our grandmothers and mothers used to advise us. Our relationship with food has to do with more than hunger… Join us to this state of mind! You came to Greece to taste it, as well, didn’t you?

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Take a photo of the most unexpect able sweet or salty snack that you tasted and you liked it to our fb page “Free Athens”. Maybe you discovered some thing that even we do not know it!

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BUN - COFFEE & MORE

700 m / PANEPISTIMIO

METRO LINE 2

BUNSIS

Nikoletta and Yanna are two sister who do their hair in buns and…love cinnamon buns! Their lovely “Bunsis” in Aiolou Street is packed with their love ! Try their divine sweet buns with cinnamon, berries or chocolate as well as salty buns with feta cheese (!), olives or pepperoni! The dough is homemade and always made up of fresh ingredients. The smoothies here is a must and the especially the “detox” with melon, cucumber, ginger and peppermint that is taking the world by storm!

There are vegan dishes as well and the roasted veggies salad with peanut butter sauce is my favourite!

So do your hairy bun and come over to “Bunsis”!

/ 46 Aiolou St. - Athens / t: +30 210 33 11 616 / Instagram: Bunsis.Cafe

COFFEE, TREATS & SMALL EATS

700 m / EVANGELISMOS

METRO LINE 3

OHH BOY A store that is really famous among the people of Athens!

Sure, you will love it just like us, for plenty of reasons: It is placed in a neighborhood street, has minimal and delicate aesthetics, it is pet friendly (especially for dogs!).

The perfect suggestion for your breakfast time! Its sweets are the perfect jewel for Instagram photos!

You can taste traditional greek sweets like ekmek, or bannofee which is their “guarantee”. Of course there are many choices of milk to accompany your alwaysqualitative coffee. One area that has long been searched by OHH BOY is vegan sweets.

Superfast fiber wifi.

/ 32 Archelaou St. - Pagrati / t: +30 211 18 38 340 / fb: Ohh Boy

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4 Interesting Facts about Kerameikos

Today, about 46% of the buildings in the area of Kerameikos are empty! Nevertheless, because of the rich architectural heritage and culture of the region, it is believed that the area has many chances to be transformed into a modern neighborhood without social exclusions.

Workmen, shopkeepers and craftsmen were the main inhabitants of Kerameikos in the late 1950s. The only “elite” of the region were doctors and dentists, useful for the needs of the residents.

After 2000, the hallmark of the area is not anymore the factories, but the recreation areas, which may be housed in former industrial facilities. Property prices go up and, gradually, populations such as Greeks Muslims or Roma are eliminated.

It’ s from 1990 that Kerameikos and the neighbourhoods around it start becoming popular in Bohemian, alternative artists, painters, writersand people of art. Even rich Greek people start seeking a different anD less crowded place to be and to create.

Κerameikos “Kerameis” in greek

means potters. The area Kerameikos took its name from those people who worked with their hands and created the famous in all over the world Attic vases-real masterpieces.

Kerameikos, their settlement back to the centuries, is located to the northwest of the Acropolis and the whole area has undergone a number of archaeological excavations in recent years. Kerameikos border from the east was the Agora and from the west, outside the wall, was the biggest and most important cemetery.

You can reach

there through Ermou, Asomaton or Pireos Sreet. Except for the important Kerameikos Museum which is housed in a picturesque neoclassical building there, the area offers a variety of options for entertainment and not only.

From the metro Gazi

you can easily reach to everywhere in Kerameikos on foot. The bars and restaurants close to the metro, in the “Tehcnopolis” area are more mainstream and “noisy”, that’ why young people are usually those who prefer them. But, walking a little deeper, to the more quiet streets, you are going to discover the more traditional aspect of the region. But, to be honest, not only traditional: graffitis, theatres, original, greek tavernas with homemade food, street artists and modern art houses, like galleries, or handmade jewellery shops are there and create, all together, the really special atmosphere of Kerameikos.

Do not expect menus in English or touristic corners. The area is an authentic face of downtown

Athens, cosmopolitan and low budget in the same time. Go there if you want to see some less classical but still fascinating museums, such as the Islamic Art Museum, the Art Space Asomaton and the Evonimos Ecological Library. One of our personal preferences, here, in “Free Athens”,are the Seminars in Mikro Polytechneio, a cozy multiplex full of inspiration and art.

Kerameikos meets Metaxourgeio and Votanikos, and all together are the absolute mix and match of the city of Athens. Multicultural, with unlimited choices for things to do, to taste, to learn. How could it be different? Those neighbourhoods are located, like crossroads, between Plato’s Academy, the Akropolis and the roads leading to Piraeus.

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Feel the energy of Kerameikos and have infinite fun! Do not forget to take a picture of your favourite spot and send it to our facebook page “Free Athens”.

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SANDWICH SHOP

THAI restaurant

San FRANCISCO

Tamarind Thai

If you love sandwiches and you have unlimited imagination in your food combinations we eagerly recommend that you visit «San Francisco». It has been well known as the first New Wave sandwich shop of our city. Don’t hesitate to ask for a sandwich exactly as you would make it at home. Be creative! It is prepared in front of you with pure ingredients to revitalize you after walking around the centre of the city. It is easily made and eaten while standing. You can even choose between light or vegan sandwiches!

550 m / KERAMEIKOS METRO LINE 3

Greek TAVERN

650 m / METAXOURGHIO

METRO LINE 2

METAXOU If you wish to visit an all-time classic Athenian tavern, don’t forget to try Metaxou! Metaxou offers a combination of quality taste, homemade food and a beautiful green garden. Traditional Greek recipes meet the comfort of cool summer breeze. Each and every choice of food in Metaxou is a result of experience and love. The quality of food is based on handmade pure products and has nothing to do with pre-cooked meals.

An authentic folk tavern, friendly people, experienced staff willing to make suggestions and treat you.

Have a glass of their fine biological wines! Give yourself the opportunity to travel through Athens city of past century. Enjoy the singing of their troubadours, songs from Tsitsanis, Theodorakis, Melina etc. Magic music, scents and tastes that will get you back to an era of innocence, romanticism and happiness.

/ 10 Pithodorou St. - Κolonos / t: +30 210 52 29 290 / fb: Metaxou.gr

/ 99 Kerameikou St. - Athens / t: +30 215 55 12 845 / www.sanfrancisco.gr / fb: tosanfrancisco

An authentic Thai restaurant in the center of Athens that you should definitely visit if you are in the country. It’s curry dishes are characterized as the finest ones in Europe. All the recipes of the menu can be prepared as vegan. Open Tuesday to Sunday 7:00 - 00:30.

Tables in the square in the summer.

550 m / METAXOURGHIO METRO LINE 2

/ 51 Κeramikou St. - Avdi square Metaxourgio / t: +30 210 52 25 945 / fb: Tamarindathens

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Tips for Acropolis feet lovers

If you are walking from the Plaka, near the end of Adrianou street you will come to a small square, every inch of which has been taken over by fancy tourist restaurants and cafes. Hurry through it until you come face to face with Hadrian’s wall.

You can’t miss it.

Don’t lose the chance to see the famous Tower of the Winds in Plaka.

This monument is located only a block up from Adrianou on Aeolou street and it is a part of the ancient Roman Agora.

It was believed to be a place of great magic, but, in fact, it was a meteorological station from the first century, built by the Syrian Astronomer Andronikos Kyrrhestes.

In Koukaki, do not miss the chance to walk through Tsami Karatasou Street and admire the neoclassical mansions. One will surely stand out from the rest; it is the home of artist Margarita Theodorakis, daughter of Zorba the Greek composer, Mikis Theodorakis.

“In Acropolis’ feet”! (literally) Monastiraki, Plaka and Koukaki

are Acropolis’ best friends. From special points of those neighbourhoods you can see the famous Athenian hill with Parthenon, shining like a rare stone in the night.

But, the value

of those blocks does not only to have with the historical monument. Quality, smiley faces and a variety of choices have led those spots in the city to be the most famous not only for tourists and visitors, but also for Greeks and Athenians.

People who came to shop, to drink coffee or to eat the best souvlaki in Athens are exactly in front of your eyes. Ice cream and frozen yogurt shops, as well as fresh juice points, are always in fashion and offer a great break for the “hard walkers” of the city.

Monastiraki for ever!

Monastiraki means in greek the little church and is worldwide known for its flea market. It is a major tourist attraction in Athens for bargain shopping. Enjoy the African parties in the square with their traditional instruments giving a rhythm in everyone’s steps. Enjoy, as well, the surprises! History is written here in every corner. Keep your eyes open, because this very history is more interesting than its museum edition.

Plaka, the Queen of Athens

Stairs, cats, old, greek-style cafes, the best selfies ever and, above all, this light form the sky which fits so much with the white houses. Plaka was always synonymous with Athens by itself. Walk around the shops and tavernas, smell the pink and red flowers from the yards of the old Athenian who still live there and feel like you are in any greek island. Oh, this is happiness.

Koukaki, you, super star…

Creative, youthful and hippie Koukaki captures, and not without reason, the attention of all! Bars and restaurant masterpieces, small galleries and streets to walk like a hero of a romantic greek movie.

Modern, but still traditional, this aristocratically minimal neighbourhood of Athens is maybe the reason why you fell in love with this city.

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Are you an Acropolis foot lover? Prov e it!

Send a photo of yours in the most spectacular spot to our facebook page “Free Athens”.

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cafe

CAFE -RESTAURANT

TSIRITRI tsiritro

TO KOUTI

Colors, vintage red couches and sweets from older times! Little spoons, little crystal boxes, bibelot that remind you of a dollhouse! Vasso and Michalis welcome you in a warm, friendly and hospitable way… The way of old times! What do they have to offer?

Handmade pies with pure Greek ingredients, homemade orange pie, chocolate pie, semolina halva, apple pie, ice cream. Cold coffees and during the summer also greek tsipouro with titbits!

500 m / SYGROU - FIX METRO LINE 2

ALL-DAY CAFE-BAR

450 m / SYNTAGMA

METRO LINES 2, 3

KIMOLIA “Kimolia” in Greek, means chalk!

Our Kimolia, is an all-day artistic cafe-bar that’s well-hidden in the narrow streets of Plaka.

Drawing from our name, Kimolia features large blackboards and offers plenty of chalk, for you to leave your messages on them.

Kimolia offers coffee and snacks from early morning, to drinks and cocktails late at night, since 2011.

Sit comfortably and relax, inside a time-capsule-like space, listening to jazz and blues. Kimolia will feel like your home away from home, whilst you’re in Athens!

/ 5 Iperidou St. - Plaka / t: +30 211 18 48 446 / www.kimolia-art-cafe.gr / facebook.com/kimolia

/ 89Α-91 Veikou St. - Koukaki / t: +30 213 01 22 913 / fb: Tsiritri Tsiritro

‘To Kouti’ stands out from the other shops that you will come across at Adrianou Street, due to its lovely furniture, its aesthetics and the uniqueness of its indoor decoration. Many passersby come in just to marvel at the ornaments. But there are other reasons, too. The love which they cook and serve with, the way that they make recommendations and the typical Greek humour are some of them. Right at the foothills of Parthenon you will sample special dishes and sweets. Don’t miss their portokalopita (orange pie) and rose ice cream!

220 m / MONASTIRAKI ISAP LINE 1 / METRO LINE 3

/ 23 Adrianou St. - Monastiraki / t: +30 210 32 13 029

n i k l a w A oo h r u o b h g i e n FREE ATHENS

The metro stop from Kolonaki, if you are not a real fan of walking, is Evangelismos.

Kolonaki, by the way, means literally “the little column” named for the column once standing alone on the edge of town.

But, for the origin of the name, there are many theories.

Ask, search and choose your best!

Do not forget to have a look and a walk at Dexameni Square. Dexameni means cistern which is what the square sits upon. It used to be the water supply for THE WHOLE CITY and was actually built by the Emperor Hadrian.

Awesome!

If your budget permits this to you, buy some fancy clothes and accessories from the shops in and around Kolonaki.

“The last word of Fashion” is being told here for many years now.

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Kolonaki, the king of athenian luxury Kolonaki is considered

the most elegant, trendy and…posh neighborhood of Athens, with many high end boutiques, distinguished bars and chic restaurants. In this neighbourhood, old and historical one, people nowadays go to see and to be seen. Its cosmopolitan style and its place in the centre of Athens make it to be loved by many generations of people. Many museums, boutiques, cafes and restaurants invite Greek people and visitors from other countries to visit them. You are going for sure to observe the numerous foreign embassies, as well. The National Park on Irodou Attikou street is a real oasis during the summer and, in general, try to walk it. You can do it during the afternoon, when the sun is not so hot. Walking to Kolonaki takes about twenty minutes from Syntagma and a half hour from Plaka, while from the student district of Exarhia is less than ten minutes.

Oh, yes.

A walk through the streets of Kolonaki, “the neighbourhood of poets and nobles” is absolutely worthwhile. Start off in Plateia Kolonaki and Plateia Dexameni, the main shopping street of Patriarchou Ioakim, and investigate the parallel streets up from it, such as Haritos, with its mixture of old neoclassical houses, upscale modern flats, and art galleries. If you are full of Athenian energy, you can climb to the top streets to reach the rim of Lykavettos and enjoy from there magnificent views of Athens, some of them including the Acropolis.

For the real downtown

experience do not forget to make a stop at the Kolonaki Square, where locals enjoy their coffee, while talking to each other or to their...cell phones! Not many foreigners show up in these cafes, they are not touristic, so why not to try to mix up with the real Athenians? Lawyers, students, young models, famous actors and singers are there, between the nervous taxi drivers, the people who sell flowers in the streets, the old residents who buy their newspaper. Can you discover them, can you start a conversation with them?

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How much did your figure fit to Kolo naki? Take a picture and send it to our facebook page “Free Athens”.

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TASTING CULTURE

Breakfast & brunch restaurant - Bar

telaro

VOLVER A LA SOMBRA

Telaro has got to offer everything that we are looking for. A neat, minimal, breezy and bright environment suitable for those who want to eat with friends or family. Don’t forget to check out the upper floor and the backyard because they are the best part! It is located between Aiolou and Karori Street. And there is much more to say about their dishes: they are delicious, healthy and surprisingly interesting. Telaro is also famous for its breakfast: “tiganites” (fried dough), fruit salads and smoothies! Their plates smell of the Greek summer infused, though, with the European finesse.

750 m / PANEPISTIMIO METRO LINE 2

/ 33 Aiolou St. - Athens / t: +30 210 32 43 740 / fb: Telaro

INNOVATIVE KITCHEN

ISAP LINE 1 / METRO LINE 3

450 m / MONASTIRAKI

MELILOTOS ‘Melilotos’ is a standard athenian choice located in the city centre, but because of its authenticity and its high quality ingredients and that’s why it has been rendered an ideal destination for alternative travelers as well. Among the cult fabric shops in Kalamiotou Street ‘Melilotos’ gained a reputation offering creative dishes with great emphasis put on the locality of the ingredients as well as the people’s unique eating habits (health issues, diabetes, diet, gluten-free, etc).

/ 19 Κalamiotou St. - Athens / t: +30 210 32 22 458 & 498 / www.melilotos.gr / fb: melilotos

Downtown Athens is not only noisy streets, impressive buildings and burning sun. It’s also pedestrian streets and small alleys. Hidden corners and cozy places. Find your way off the beaten path, to the coolest little yard of Valaoritou Street. Come and find us under the shadow of an ancient tree.

400 m / SYNTAGMA METRO LINES 2, 3

/ 7a Valaoritou St. - Syntagma / t: +30 210 36 35 557 / fb: volveralasombra

n i k l a w A oo h r u o b h g i e n FREE ATHENS

In this really particular neighbourhood, you can find bohemian shops, hidden courtyards and squares. Here you can explore street art, politically charged murals and some of the most unique shops in Athens.

The political culture of the region is really similar of the one in Kreuzberg, the famous, bohemian district of Berlin. Exarchia is a place where many intellectuals and artists live and where many socialist, anarchist, and anti-fascist groups are accommodated.

Numerous graffitis and posters remind the character of the area. In December 2008, the murder of 15-year-old Alexandros Grigoropoulos by a policeman in Exarchia caused rioting throughout Greece.

Exarchia, has a large migrant and refugee community.

The overcrowding and abuse within Greek refugee camps has propelled a movement of squatting within Athens and across Greece.

There are more than a dozen squats in Athens, primarily centered in Exarchia, serving as housing, healthcare, and social centers for refugees, migrants, or anarchists. These squats provide space for highly diverse communities.

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Exarchia Exarchia is one

of Athens’ oldest neighbourhoods and full of life, mainly due to the presence of the nearby University of Athens and Polytechnio. Despite its youthful energy, it is not a touristy district, and the region has become associated with protests and anarchists.

If the centre

of the capital and the areas around Syntagma Square were the hub of the country’s political and commercial life, Exarhia and Neapoli (New City) of Exarhia were the meeting points for the intellectual Athenians.

The name Exarchia was given from a resident who ran a grocery store at the junction of Themistokleous and Solomou streets, above the current Exarchia Square.

Starting from

the main square, you can see the “blue building”, which is here from the early 1930s, as a significant part of the area’s history. Many famous people, politicians and artists have lived there through the years. As you continue from the square, walking through the back streets, you’ll find small restaurants and tavernas, alternative bars, vinyl record stores, cinemas, bookstores and everything else you can imagine!

Just a few minutes’

walk from the Square, you will encounter the amazing view of Athens from Strefi Hill — a very nice spot, where every summer, interesting events are hosted at the stone-paved open theatre at the hill. The closest museum to Exarhia is The National Archaeological Museum of Athens, the largest museum in Greece, which is housed in a neoclassical 19th-century building.

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If you are around the district on a Saturday, do not forget to visit Laiki Agora (Groceries Flee Market), in Kallidromiou Street that has a grea t variety of fruits and vegetables. Walk among the producer s’ stalls and try some of the seasonal products. Please, send us a photo to our facebook page “Free Athens”.

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CAFE BISTROT

BAR

ALEXANDRINO

IPPOPOTAMOS

Alexandrino is located in a picturesque neighborhood of Exarhia. An elegant place with a close eye to detail. A great choice for your visit if you wish to taste quality coffee, pastry, delicious snacks or have a pint of cold beer. Alexandrino offers a huge variety of worldwidely known wine labels, classic and vintage cocktails. Full of taste, class and jazz music vibes! The all-day delicate choice!

For 40 years now you can find one of the oldest bars of the city at the borders between Exarchia and Kolonaki in one of the most beautiful pedestrian walkways of Athens.

Colours, music, people and things together with unadulterated drinks, classic or alternative cocktails manage to create a fascinating and soothing atmosphere that should be experienced. Coffee and all kinds of juice are served from early morning. There are small rooms, corners with bars, small tables and a yard. Beautiful angles of mirrors, posters or lights are available from wherever you may sit. One of the most deeply atmospheric spots of the city. As a rock/funky/soul music oriented bar it is loved for generations by the fans of rock music and originality. Are you coming?

800 m / OMONIA ISAP LINE 1 / METRO LINE 2

Greek TAVERN

ISAP LINE 1/ METRO LINE 2

850 m / OMONIA

ROZALIA Rozalia is a tavern located in one of the most known pedestrian walkways of Exarhia. There are plenty of choices for starters (you can choose between 16 plates and choices of different taste), homecooked, dishes of the day and what else you can (or not) imagine. You could also try their always fresh seafood dishes! It’s up to you to decide whether you will seat at their garden or pedestrian walkway tables. Your meal will quickly be served by smiling helpful waiters and the prices are reasonable!

An authentic traditional Greek tavern!

/ 59 Valtetsiou St. - Exarchia / t: +30 210 33 02 933 / fb: Ροζαλια-Rozalia

/ 69 Emmanouil Benaki St. Exarchia / t: +30 210 38 10 117 / fb: alexandrinobenaki69

600 m / PANEPISTIMIO METRO LINE 2

/ 3Β Delfon St. - Kolonaki / t: +30 210 36 34 583 / fb: Ippopotamos Bar

FREE ATHENS

Taste in Athens Dear tourist, welcome to the «First City in the Wοrld». Welcome to Athens, the city of the contrasts and the surprises. We know, everything looks strange to you, but you don’t need to worry about anything, because there is a solution to everything! And especially, when this solution is about your food and your going out the city. You’re in Greece, the country that is famous in all over the world thanks to, between others, its food and its hospitality.

In Athens, there is a vast variety of different places that even the Athenians are not aware of! We totally aim to inform you about places and shops of the city with different cultures and different cuisines.

Unique flavors that you will, maybe, never forget.

Are you ready to explore the city’s gastronomy and travelling through it?

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The various spices that are used in greek cuisine, giving an extra taste, make the food more delicious!

It’s worth tasting chicken in the oven with potatoes and mustard sauce! Apart from the traditional greek salad (with tomato, cucumber, onion, feta and olive oil), try zucchini, peppers and aubergines in the pan, “fava”, ‘’taramosalata’’, ‘’tirokafteri’’ or meatballs with fresh fried potatoes! In addition to the salty dishes, do not forget to taste traditional Greek sweets, such as yogurt with honey, nuts and fruits, pecan pie and the delicious orange pie! Except for the wine which we mentioned above, you can accompany your food with ouzo, raki from Crete or retsina!

Cheers, or… ”gia mas”!

Close your eyes and enjoy all those flavors of Greece!

Greek cuisine, famous

in all over the world for its delicious and original dishes, is one of the most important parts of Mediterranean cuisine, the healthiest of all. It includes nutritional products such as olive oil, bread, cereals, vegetables, pulses, fish, dairy products, pork, lamb.

In greek dishes you will taste a lot of spices and herbs, such as oregano, mint, garlic, parsley,

lavender, basil, thyme, cinnamon, nutmeg and «krokos Kozanis»(the greek safran) that are often included in the greek cuisine. You will also find a variety of wines due to the large production of grapes in Greece. Due to the fact that the food in Greece is directly connected with the company and the discussion, it’s considered as a very important part of the everyday life of the Greeks. There are many types of dining venues in Greece, such as restaurants, tavernas, barbecues, fish taverns, ouzeries and tsipouradika, where you can often find folk live music! In every corner of Greece, from Thrace, Macedonia, Thessaly, Attica, Crete and all our islands, fine, greek ingredients are combined in different and delicious ways, according to local traditions.

And in Athens,

there are restaurants and taverns that will make you taste Greek cuisine and taste dishes such as pastitsio, yuvetsi, moussaka, squid fried with potatoes, ntolmadakia, bean soup, yummy pies and other traditional dishes that are really worth tasting. Getting to know the greek gastronomic tradition, it is sure you will love it and you will often cook many of its dishes at your home!

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Don’t forget, during your gourmet trip, to take a photo your favorite Greek dish or with the owner of the restaurant you liked the most and send it to our Facebook page “Free Athens”.

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GREEK CUISINE

Fish tavern

ΟΙ ΝOSTIMIES TIS MAIRIS

Laki΄s ouzeri

Either for lunch or dinner, this place offers authentic and traditional food at its finest!

Don’t miss the chance to look at their display window and be inspired by the colours and the texture their dishes before choosing. Here is your chance to discover everything you have heard about the Mediterranean and Greek cuisine freshly cooked with the purest ingredients and served in a traditional Greek environment. Once you get back to your country, you will have tasted the authenticity of Greek gastronomy!

900 m / VICTORIA ISAP LINE 1

/ 2-4 Idras St. - Kypseli / t: +30 210 82 13 136 / fb: OiNostimiesTesMaires

TRADITIONAL GREEK CUISINE

350 m / VICTORIA

ISAP LINE 1

ARXONTISSA Eating at your grandma’s would be common if you had a Greek grandma. You would become attached to homemade recipes and traditional scents. Surely, she would always fill your plate with food and would ask if you want more! Probably you haven’t experienced anything like it and that’s a good reason to come to ‘Archontissa’ to understand the notion of Greek cuisine cooked by young and passionate people willing to satisfy your needs with their skills. Surrender to your senses and enjoy our old-school culinary hospitality!

/ 31 Kodrigtonos St. - Athens / t: +30 210 82 38 155 / www.arxontissa.com / fb: arxontissakouzina

On a pedestrian street very close to Victoria Square and Line 1 Metro station, you can find Laki’s Ouzeri. In Greece, we love fish and all kinds of seafood. Here, you will always find fresh fish, well-cooked in classical and innovative recipes. The store is simple, the owners are really friendly and helpful. They recommend, they serve and they discuss with you.

If you are looking for an authentic fish tavern so as to taste seafood products (that you really love!) search for this place!

140 m / VICTORIA ISAP LINE 1

/ 16 Elpidos St. - Victoria Square / t: +30 210 82 13 776 / www.ouzeritoulaki.info / fb: To Ouzeri tou Laki

n i e t s a T s n e h t A FREE ATHENS

Burgers of vegetables and especially mushroom burgers are widely known in the vegan cuisine.

You will find very tasty burgers near at Koukaki, Syntagma, Kolonaki, Gazi and especially around the centre of Athens! For the sweet lovers, a chocolate cake with cocoa and avocado, of course without sugar, is the best! Do you know that exist restaurants near Gazi which serve purple potatoes and a salty crepe with nuts? Also, FABULOUS dishes considered the following ones: carrot soup with pesto sauce and vegan-raw sandwich with almond bread!

Mmm, delicious!

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Vegan cuisine Are you vegan or vegetarian?

We have the solution! There are restaurants in the city that will not force you to change your eating habits. Out there, you can find vegan dishes, equally delicious and nutritious.

Vegan Diet: Is a‌ fashion of the season or a really healthier lifestyle? Vegan diet concerns those

who do not consume meat, fish and other products of animal origin such as eggs and dairy products.

The basis of this diet is pulses and vegetables. Therefore, you will also have the chance to taste some coconut oil or almond oil dishes. All menus of vegan restaurants are important that they are made from organic products. How would you like to taste a vegetarian pizza with lots of vegetables or a delicious carrot cake? Also, many Athenian restaurants have included in their menus mushroom burgers!

You will be absolutely

satisfied from the options. In general, fresh fruits, vegetables and nuts will be the base of these dishes you will have the chance to taste. And be sure that you will not regret it.

Besides, in many restaurants there are chefs specializing in the vegan cuisine. They can prepare you from the simplest recipe to the most complex. It is important to enjoy new and special flavors in high quality!

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Take a photo with the most special vegan dish that made you a great impression and send it to our Facebook page (Free Athens)

47 HEALTHY CUISINE

ISAP LINE 1 / METRO LINE 2

500 m / OMONIA

MAMA TIERRA ‘’Mother Earth‘’ is it΄s name and not by accident since all products are pure and some of them are even organic!

The Greek countryside and local production is their mainly origin.

Always securing high quality and exquisite taste in vegan cuisine.

Chef Polash Alam, challenges you to taste his gourmet creations from all over the world. Even if you are not a vegan or vegetarian, Mama Tierra offers you a brand new food experience right in the heart of the city that you might even consider changing your dietary habits.

The restaurant currently obtains special distinction at Michelin guide ( 2017 & 2018).

/ 84 Αkadimias St. - Athens / t: +30 211 41 14 420 / www.mamatierra.gr / fb: mamatierra.healthycuisine

Health Food Restaurant

ISAP LINE 1 / METRO LINE 3

290 m / MONASTIRAKI

VEGAN BEAT You wouldn’t normally expect it but in Monastiraki -where you usually take your walks- there is this hidden gem, Vegan Beat, a small new shop that offers marvellous vegan dishes.

Situated in stoa Charagioni in a bright, breezy and neat environment, you will find out that it needs to be your haunt even if you aren’t staying long. ‘Vegan Beat’ prepares the most delicious tortillas, burgers, club sandwiches, salads and sweets. Everything is made with the purest and healthiest ingredients. Invigorating and filling smoothies are served as well. Don’t forget to try the one made with banana, spiroulina and cranberries! Refreshing salads, tasty sauces and definitely the most delicious vegan burger with beans and mushrooms!

Everything made with love and passion as if you are at home.

/ 7-15 Pandrosou St. - Μonastiraki (Inside Haragioni gallery, 1st floor) / t: +30 210 32 52 004 / fb: veganbeatgr

n i e t s a T s n e h t A FREE ATHENS

Ethnic cuisine has many secrets and surprises. Get ready to know them!

Walking around the streets near the Syntagma’s square you will find many ethnic restaurants, mainly Assian and japanese ones. It’s time to taste the Japanese flavors, such as maki rolls, nigiri, sashimi, koi style rolls, which is the ultimate “food fashion” in the greek capital.

Moreover, the ethnic cuisine can be characterized as the absolut street food. Could you resist to a delicious falafel?

Also, are you ready to say: ‘’Viva Mexico’’!? Burritos, quesadillas, tacos, nachos bowl, fajitas are the best dishes of the Mexican cuisine! And finally, let’s see a spicy dish from Indian cuisine, the wellknown “Chicken Tikka Masala’’, which is made from pieces of chicken cooked with fresh tomato sauce, crEme and spices.

Yummy!

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Ethnic cuisine Ethnic cuisine in Athens throughout the last years, has experienced a great boom. All kinds of

restaurants serve dishes from every corner of the world and we experience an interesting variety of flavors in our dishes. Foods not only are very different the one from the other, but also equally loved.

The choices are numerous: Lebanese cuisine, Indian, Japanese, Cuban, Italian, French, Asian, Mexican, Brazilian, Persian, etc. Based on the special flavors of each country, those dishes reveal a lot about the culture of people living in it.

A delicious carbonara

pasta like the authentic you would taste it in Italy (yes, with an egg!), delicious Thai soups or salads, Indian chicken with aromatic spices and pork with dried fruit from brazilian land are only some of the interesting ethnic dishes of the city. Apart from the quality and the nice taste of the dishes, their prices are not so high, while the possible combinations are numerous.

Furthermore, the cozy atmosphere of the restaurants and the marvellous hospitality of the waiters make this gastronomic journey even more interesting!

Athens is the absolut place in Greece where you can discover and taste the real exotic flavors

and «global» sustances, recipies and ingredients. The ethnic restaurants are located in every corner of the town.

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Don’t forget to capture the moment enjoying your favorite ethnic recipe and send it to our Face book page (Free Athens)!

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EAT IN - TAKE AWAY - DELIVERY

Ethnic Street Food

Not Just Falafel

ETNICO

We don’t talk about an ordinary Falafel shop and that’s why it is called Not Just Falafel.

It’s the first store that opened in Athens where we first tasted it and now you can find authentic and fresh falafel from the East, wrapped in Arabic bread. Also served with fresh ingredients from Greek producers. Not Just Falafel, has the best reviews on Τrip Αdvisor, Athens Guide, on Facebook and other social medias. Besides falafel we also recommend you to try out Kibbe, Shish Taouk, Toum and our favorite Hummus and all the delicacies that the cooks may recommend you. Don’t forget that the shop also has delivery service!

«The first multi-ethnic street food with high quality ingredients that somebody would find in a fine restaurant. ETNICO is delighted to announce that it has received the TripAdvisor® Certificate of Excellence Award for 2018. For the second year in a row, ETNICO is recognized as a Top street-food choice as reviewed by Travellers on the World’s Largest Travel Site. Don’t miss the chance to «TASTE the WORLD»!

650 m / SYNTAGMA METRO LINES 2, 3

/ 16 Romvis & Perikleous St. - Syntagma / t: +30 210 32 11 393 / www.notjustfalafel.gr / fb: Not Just Falafel

PIES FROM ALL OVER THE WORLD

400 m / SYNTAGMA

METRO LINES 2, 3

THE PIE SHOP This tiny little shop has stolen the hearts of both Athenians and travellers. Here you will savor the most elegant pies and tarts from all over the world that taste divine. Always freshly cooked and displayed in our storefront they will captivate you with their Rustique look, beauty and smell. You can choose between the American sugar-free blueberry pie with fresh fruits, the lemon tart which is their specialty, the “Bourdaloue” that is a sweet French tart filled with pears and almond paste, Hornazo de Salamanca with jamon and chorizo which are Spanish cold cuts as well as beef patties from Jamaica, Tequenos from Peru and chicken pie from England. All pies, brisée doughs and puff pastry are handmade with French butter.

Margarine, oil, conservatives and frozen products are never used here.

The pie shop = a unique experience!

/ 16 Voulis St. - Syntagma / t: +30 211 40 37 328 / fb: ThePieShopAthens

700 m / SYNTAGMA METRO LINES 2, 3

/ 22 Kolokotroni St. (Close to Syntagma Square) / t: +30 211 41 13 880 / www.etnico.gr / fb: etnicostreetfood / Instagram: etnicostreet

n i e t s a T s n e h t A FREE ATHENS

We are sure you have not tasted more impressing souvlaki ever than the Greek one. Except for pork souvlaki or chicken souvlaki, it is worth enjoying kebab souvlaki along with handmade fries potatoes.

Pita without oil or with oil, plenty of salad and a frozen beer. The perfect combination! Apart from the others, you will not leave Athens if you don’t taste giant covered pie (and inside it, you can find melted gouda cheese, MEAT and anything else you like).

Walking around near the food shops of centre, but not only, you will find the so-called doublepie (a double pie, where you can add souvlaki, potatoes and whatever else you want). It’s pure temptation!

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The best greek souvlaki you will taste in Athens!

This is Greeks’ favourite food, simple and delicious!

What else to ask, if not a souvlaki with tzatziki? You are looking for it when you step on your foot

in Greece, admit it. To be honest, it is the absolute traditional food and gastronomic symbol in the era of crisis, and, furthermore, the most intelligent, fast and delicious food. Greek souvlaki is the first thing that comes in your mind when you are thinking of the perfect holiday in Greece. It has its own history, its tradition has made its presence perceivable since a lot of years and many generations of people have grown up with it. It is a greek dish that suits all the hours and is a unlimited tasteful love!

In Athens, you will find many food shops that make delicious souvlaki, either with pork or chicken, even with lamb and veal meat, for the well known arab or turkish kebap. The combinations are many and different. Locals and tourists never get bored of it, as souvlaki combines many flavors together.

Juicy meat, served in a well-baked pie, delicious fried potatoes, lettuce, cabbage, tomato, tzatziki or sauce (of any choice). You can find recipes for simple or gourmet souvlaki in the menus.

Its authentic taste,

quality and quantity will surprise you. But what makes it more interesting, is the fact that it’s incredibly cheap. The price does not exceed 2.5 euros. The usual areas, where you can enjoy authentic Greek souvlaki, are in the historical centre of Athens (Monastiraki, Theseio, Plaka, Koukaki) and near to metro station ‘’Panepistimio’’. Do not miss the opportunity to live the ultimate gastronomy experience!

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Take a photo with a greek souvaki in your favourite shop (souvlatzidiko) and send it to our Facebook page (Free Athens). Enjoy it!

51 GRILL HOUSE

ISAP LINE 1 / METRO LINE 2

700 m / OMONIA

PRIGKIPAS “Prigkipas” is the word for Prince in Greek and the name of the place where you can eat the best traditional meat recipes the way Greeks prefer it. Surely you can visit many places to taste souvlaki and kebab but when it comes to “Prigkipas” we talk about tradition of north Greece’s food combined with the quality of an expensive restaurant. Different types of meat are used to make each choice unique. Buffalo meat from Kerkini, black pork from Prespes, ewe meat “provatina” from Tirnavos and kebab from Gasti’s family farm in Florina. You can taste them in delicious burgers, sandwiches, “souvlaki pitta”. We recommend you to ask for traditional Florina’s kebab plate and ajvar sauce made by sweet Florinas pepper and eggplant “Prigkipas” signature in taste!

/ 23 Charilaou Trikoupi St. Exarchia / t: +30 211 40 50 070 / http://prigkipas.gr/ / fb: Prigkipas.Exarcheia

GREEK CUISINE

ISAP LINE 1 / METRO LINE 2

700 m / OMONIA

ACHILLEAS - VERGINA Vergina is the place for people who want to taste the wide variety of Greek cuisine! Greeks prefer homemade dishes (“so called: mama’s food”) and Vergina is oriented there! The food is guaranteed fresh as they daily order pure products. All of your choices are well cooked based on Greek and mediterranian cuisine. You should try traditional pies, “kokkinisto” named after the colour of fresh tomato sauce combined with meat (usually veal) or “lemonato” sauce made by lemons and spices. Don’t forget “gemista” (stuffed tomatos and peppers with rice)! It is certain that you won’t forget their taste and by the time you visit Greece again you will re-order them.

Try on charbroiled souvlakia with tzatziki and fresh fried potatoes!

/ 62 Valtetsiou St. - Exarchia / t: +30 210 38 07 992 / fb: Achileas1978

FREE ATHENS

Escape Do you have the impression that Athens means only exhausting fumes, stressed people, full of motorways and enormous buildings? Not, our dear visitors!

Athens means, as well, green parks, amazing beaches, beautiful nature.

It’s time to walk in parks and impressing gardens, to explore the natural beauty of the city, to wander next to the sea and see how nice the city is under the summer sun. Put on your best mood, take a hat and your sunglasses for your walks, your friends, of course, and get ready for the most special tour of the city!

e r o l p x E y t i c e th FREE ATHENS

Except for the aforementioned excursions, there are a lot of places near the centre of the town and the suburbs that remind us the unique beauty of Athens! Don’t miss the opportunity to guide yourselves to National Garden, the forest of Veikou, the park of Antonis Tritsis, the forest in Nea Smyrni, the Marine of Floisvos or the Votanic Garden of Deomides in Haidari.

Every season Athens is gorgeous and only walking in the city and its hidden treasures, you will fully realize and estimate its real value and wealth.

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Green and blue, are the colours of Greece, the colours of nature and of summer, aren’t they?

Athens is one

of the cities that combine both mountain and the sea. Enjoy excursions full of picturesque landscapes and fresh air, here, in the city of gods. Are you ready to enjoy the most heavenly landscapes in Athens? Have you already thought about the place where you will make your first dives? Well, we can help you…

A well-known destination is Sounio.

A historical destination thanks to the temple of Poseidon that overtops with the view of Aegean Sea. You’re able to take a coffee or to eat fresh fish near the temple. Pure magic!

Another ideal destination

near Athens is, of course, Porto Rafti. As an area, it attracts more people during the summer months and during September! Over there, you will find a lot of all day bar restos and you will enjoy the popular beach ‘’Erotospilia’’, which means “The Cave of Love” !

The ‘’Mauro Lithari’’ (black stone) is another lovely destination for both tourists and locals. It’s the most suitable place for vacation near Athens, since is located in Anavyssos. Here, you can organize your exits and your hobby events. This destination is the ideal destination to host highschool pupils, students and scholars groups on school and educational trips.

Another lovely sea excursion is the ultra popular Yabanaki Beach, in Varkiza. Big, sandy beach, crystal clear waters and a lot of beautiful restaurants that serve a very good quality of foods and cocktails.

Apart from the sea

excursions, it’s time to discover the beauty of upland nature. Parnitha is one of these places! There, you will come in contact with a quaint place that hosts fluffy flora. In Parnitha, you have the opportunity to walk through the unique forest full of firs.

Another earthly paradise just a few kilometers far away from Athens is the Metropolitan Park of Tatoi! It’s a complex park for entertainment, which will transfer you through the historical monuments, the period of 1889. Best of all? You can walk through tall trees, artificial lakes and royal buildings!

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Don’t skip to take a photo of your favorite destination and send it to our Facebook page (Free Athens).

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Experience the Authentic AURA of GREECE

27 YEARS

AIR TICKETS

FERRY TICKETS

// Bus, mini bus, mini van rentals // Hotel reservations in Greece and worldwide // Excursions // Cruises // Group & individual bookings

full of experience, Almos Travel is the guarantee for your trips

www.almos.gr 99, 3rd September str.

Victoria Square, Athens Τ.: +30 210 88 12 587 Fax: +30 210 88 19 187

52 Patission str | tel: +30 210 82 56 840 Only a few metres away from The Νational Arcaelogical Museum of Athens, you will find the right supplies for any kind of trip

www.polocenter.gr

• Mountain City • Beach

62 ZISIMOPOULOU STR, P. FALIRO | tel: +30 210 94 14 020 369 IRAKLIOU AVE, IRAKLIO | tel: +30 210 28 15 600

FREE ATHENS

g n i h t e m o S r e b m e m e r to The time of returnING back to your country has come, but you want to keep the best memories of your holidays in Athens, right? There are many good ideas, for sure.

In addition to the usual items you can buy, such as cups, sweatshirts, magnets, flags or key rings, a catchy solution is to give away the local products you met and loved in Greece! For example, a bottle of extra virgin olive oil, a vase of a traditional jam and many more traditional sweets or herbs. Walking via Athena’s Street, near the Monastiraki Square, you can findand, why not, try again!- a great variety of precious, local products. In this way, Greece will remain unforgettable in your heart and your loving people will estimate your special presents to them!

FREE ATHENS

Notes

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H5 OPEN ART GALLERY

HALLELUJAH

DIATAFTA

450 m / SYNTAGMA

Here you will find both an artistic exhibition and a shop where you can buy original decorative, souvenirs, accessories, collectible pieces of artists.

Maria Roussou, the owner of the gallery creates handbags, pillows and accessories out of recyclable coffee capsules. Exquisite creations, really awesome!!

Girls seeking for uniqueness will discern it. Not one more busy shop like those in Ermou Street. If you are keen on alternative shops you will love it. A Greek brand with minimal trends in clothing but with pretty special accessories that don’t keep up with the rules of mass producing fashion.

/ 16 Apollonos & Patroou St. - Syntagma / t: +30 210 32 34 891 / 32 Arhelaou St. - Pagrati / t: +30 210 72 35 210 / fb: hallelujahsocial / instagram: hallelujah_official

ISAP LINE 1, METRO LINE 3

finest greek products

160 m / MONASTIRAKI

inspired Clothes

METRO LINES 2, 3

Art Handcraft

/ 5 Ipitou St., Plaka / t: +30 693 23 05 428 / http://h5-open-art.business.site/ / fb: H5openartgallery

Diatafta giftshop and deli is a new entry of the classic“Diatafta” that started 20 years ago as a restaurant.

The gift shop is located in the central of Athens and the owners are two young people with respect for the Greek history and love for all the new designers of Greece.

/ 35 Adrianou St. - Monastiraki / t: +30 210 32 12 347 / 32 Mitropoleos St. - Syntagma / t: +30 210 32 12 348 / fb: diatafta

VRETTOS

THIS AND THAT

LIKE YESTERDAY` s

The famous VRETTOS Antiques is located only a few steps away from the Monastiraki Metro Station, at Avissinias square. Unique pieces, Athenian folk and urban art can be found in here. Don’t hesitate to ask about our prices, many of these are quite rare. Surely, you will be fond of our collection and struggle to choose which one to give as a present!

/ 51-52 Avissinias Square - Monastiraki / t: +30 210 32 14 407 / 9 Navarhou Apostoli St. - Psirri / t: +30 215 50 12 700 / www.vrettosantiques.gr

This beautiful tiny shop in Psyrri belongs to Nikoletta, the girl with the most perfect and sweet smile! Here you will find the most interesting ornaments and unconventional tiny accessories.

It’s a shop loved by its neighbours, the most appropriate place to buy your friends’ gifts!

/ 19 Agiou Dimitriou St. - Psiri / t: +30 210 32 45 548 / fb: This And That Psiri

ISAP LINE 1/ METRO LINE 3

Vintage shop

260 m / MONASTIRAKI

GIFT shop

ISAP LINE 1/ METRO LINE 3

ANTIQUES

450m / MONASTIRAKI

ISAP LINE 1/ METRO LINE 3

210 m / MONASTIRAKI

450 m / SYNTAGMA

METRO LINES 2, 3

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It’s always a good season to buy vintage pieces and also the best souvenir along with the pictures from your trip to Athens.

A retro skirt or a vintage dress will always remind you of the summer that you visited Greece even if the years have passed.

Everything is in reasonable prices. A perfect choice to buy presents for your friends!

/ 16 Protogenous St. - Athens / t: +30 216 70 04 810 / fb: likeyesterdays2ndhand / Instagram: likeydays

FREE ATHENS

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n o i t a m r o f Useful in Emergency numbers:

tel. 210 7750432

Car rental:

Direct Action: Tel. 100

Hippocratio Vas. Sofias 114, Athens, tel. 210 7483770

Association of Rent a Car Companies: 31 Viltanioti, 14 564 Kifissia, Athens, tel. 210 6264032, fax 210 6264039

Fire Department: tel.

199 Hellenic Police (Athens Call Center): 1033 Tourist Police: tel. 171, 210 6977386 Airport Police: Tel. 210 3536919 Trafficking in Athens: Tel. 210 5230111

Medical care: Instant Help Center: tel.

166 Poison Center: tel. 210 7793777 AID line: Tel. 210 7222222 On-duty Hospitals - IKA clinics: tel. 14944

Asklepio of Voula Vassileos Pavlou 1, Voula, tel. 210 8958301 Children - “Agia Sofia” Thebes and Papadiamantopoulou, 115 27 Goudi, tel. 210 7771811

Mass Media Information: Urban Bus Schedules: Tel. 185, www.oasa.gr Attiki Metro: tel. 210 5194001, www.ametro.gr Suburban Railway: 210 5272000, www.proastiakos.gr Athens Tram: Tel. 210 9978000, www.tramsa.gr Electric Railways: Tel. 210 3248311, 1440, www. isap.gr

On duty Pharmacies: Tel. 14944

Railway Organization of Greece: tel. 210 5297777, www.ose.gr

Hospitals:

Intercity Bus Stations: tel. 1440, 210 5124910, www.ktel.org

Evangelismos Ypsilantou 45-47, Athens, tel. 210 7201000 Alexandra 80 Vas. Sofias, Athens,

Athens Sightseeing Public Bus N.400: tel.

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Panhellenic Federation of Owners of Car and Bicycle Rental Offices: Miliaira 12, 71201 Heraklion, Crete, tel.

2810 280914, fax 2810 281943, e-mail: iniohos@ hol.gr Athens International Airport “Eleftherios Venizelos”: tel. 210 3530000, www.aia.gr Olympic Air: www.olympicair.com Aegean Airlines: tel. 210 6261000, www.aegeanairlines.gr

Sea Transports: Ferry Schedules: tel.

14944 Port of Piraeus: tel. 210 4226000, www.olp.gr Port Rafina: tel. 22940 22300, 22940 22481 Port of Lavrion: tel.

22920 25249 Port of Agios Konstantinos: 22350 31759

Ministry of Shipping and the Aegean: Tel. 210 4191700, www.yen.gr

Museums: Acropolis Museum 15 Dionysiou Areopagitou Street, General enquiries: Tel.: +30 210 9000900, email: info@ theacropolismuseum.gr National Archeological Museum 44 Patision Str, tel. +30 210 82.17.717, 210 82.17.724 Numismatic Museum 12 Panepistimiou Str. (“Iliou Melathron”), tel. +30 210 36.43.774, +30 210 36.12.540, website: www. nma.gr Benaki Museum (central building) 1 Koubari & Bas. Sofias, tel. +30 210 36.71.000, website: www. benaki.gr – Building in Piraeus Str.: 138 Piraeus Str. (gazi), tel. +30 210 34.53.111 Museum of Islamic Art 22 Aghion Asomaton & 12 Dipilou (Kerameikos), tel. +30 210 32.51.31112 Byzantine and Christian Museum 22 Vassilissis Sofias, tel.

+30 210 72.11.027, +30 210 72.32.178 Museum of War 2 Rizari Str, tel. +30 210 72.52.974-6 Museum of Greek Children Art 9 Kodrou Str. (extension of Voulis Str.), Plaka, tel. +30 210 33.12.621, 210 33.12.750, fax: +30 210 33.13.734, website: www. childrensartmuseum.gr Foundation of the Hellenic World 18 Poulopoulou – Theseion, tel. +30 212 254.38.00 – Cultural Center “Tholos”: 254 Piraeus Str – Tavros Athens, tel. +30 212,254.00.00, website: www.ime.gr Goulandri Museum of Natural History 13 Levidou Str., tel. +30 210 80.15.870, website: www.gnhm. gr - “Gaia”Center: 100 Othonos Str (Kifissia)

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We don΄t play with sweets, the store is a corner

ISAP LINE 1/ METRO LINE 3

3,5 khm / MONASTIRAKI

Nancy΄s Sweet Home Here is the hot spot of the best sweets, not only for travellers but also for the Athenians. Found in Heroon Square, with their lovely beautiful green tables. You will be treated with charleston candies and with the most generous servings of sweets. If you prefer to taste a sweet with a historical background, then you should search the menu for ‘politika’ (traditional sweets, coming all the way from Asia Minor). The employees of Nancy’s Sweet Home, will be pleased to serve you and suggest the best choices for you.

/ Iroon 1 square & Karaiskaki - Psirri square / t: +30 210 32 11 323 / www.nancysweethome.gr / fb: Nancy΄s sweet home

FREE ATHENS

Agenda Music Nana Mouskouri ‘‘A Myth to be Told’’

At Athens Festival 2018, the celebrated artist will perform some of her best-known songs, including “Chartino to fengaraki” and international hits, such as “White Rose of Athens”.

Part of the proceeds will be donated to ELPIDA – Association of Friends of Children with Cancer.

(Odeon of Herodes Atticus- 5 July 2018, 21:00) www.greekfestival.gr

Theatre Antigone,

by Sophocles

Emilios Chilakis and Manolis Dounias are inspired by the Greek tragedy and they co-direct Sophocles’ Antigone, an emblematic masterpiece about resistance to power. Antigone examines young Antigone’s fatal decision to bury her dead brother, Polynices, against the king’s rules. With English subtitles. (Odeon of Herodes Atticus- 11 July 2018-21:00) www. greekfestival.gr

Greek National Opera / Carmen

by Georges Bizet

The most popular French opera of all time, a symbol of love and freedom,

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Cultural Agenda Festivals July - September 2018 comes back at the Odeon of Herodes Atticus in a Greek National Opera production, directed by the renowned artistic director of the Göteborg Opera, Stephen Langridge. With Greek and English subtitles. (Odeon of Herodes Atticus-31 July 2018, 21:00) www. greekfestival.gr

Book 3rd Athens World Poetry Festival

A warm welcome by the Athens 2018 World Book Capital team awaits the honored poets who participate in the 3rd Athens World Poetry Festival. This year’s festival, from 18th to 23rd of September at Athens’ City Hall, is dedicated to Slovenian Poetry. (www. athens2018.gr)

3rd ATHENS COFFEE FESTIVAL Technopolis Athens

From 29 of September to 1 of October 2018, the Technopolis of the Municipality of Athens will be flooded again by the unique flavors of coffee which will give the mark of the rapid growth of «black gold», the most commercial product in the world! (www.athenscoffeefestival.gr)

Scorpions Kallimarmaro

Scorpions, one of the most long-lasting and commercially successful bands of hard rock, will visit Athens for a unique concert on Monday, July 16 at Kallimarmaro Stadium. This year, the legendary group will sing in one of the most beautiful stages in the world, at the stage where the modern Olympic Games were revived in 1896 and where the authentic marathon of Athens always ends.

Gadjo Dilo – Gazarte 27th July

Greek Gadjo Dilo will spread their Gypsy Jazz melodies at the Gazarte’s Roof Stage in an unforgettable summer night. (https://www.viva.gr)

Afrika Bambaataa six d.o.g.s 15th September

Afrika Bambaataa, one of the most influential hip-hop artists of all time will present his work for the first time at six d.o.g.s. (www.viva.gr)

Agamemnon, by Aeschylus 6th & 7th July at Ancient Theatre of Epidaurus In the first part of

Aeschylus’ trilogy, King Agamemnon returns to Argos, shortly after the end of the Trojan War. (www.viva.gr)

Waterboom Festival -1st July at Technopolis Municipality of Athens 30 June & 1 July at Technopolis, thousands of water-jets and extreme water games will create 2 days full of dew, joy and music in the heart of Athens! (www.viva.gr)

Orestes, by Euripides, 3 & 4 August, Ancient Theatre of Epidaurus

Euripides’s tragedy goes deep inside the human soul. When everything terrible is said and done, only the deus ex machina remains, coming, as usual, without warning.

The problem is that nobody believes in god’s fairy tales anymore.

With English subtitles (www.viva.gr)

Arctic Monkeys TerraVibe Park

Rockwave Festival welcomes Friday, July 6th, the biggest rock band of our time at TerraVibe Park! (www.rockwavefestival.gr)

Dries Verhoeven, Guilty Landscapes, episode 1

With the large-scale video installation Guilty Landscapes that will be exhibited at the National Museum of Contemporary Art (EMST), Dutch artist Dries Verhoeven brings the breathetaking reality of these uncomfortable news images really close. In National Museum of Contemporary Art (EMST) - 24 June - 3 July 2018

Iron Maiden και Judas Priest- TerraVibe Park

Rockwave Festival returns for one more time in July 2018, with first great names of Judas Priest (19/7) and Iron Maiden (20/7). (www. rockwavefestival.gr)

Mute cinema with live music at the Odeon of Herodes Atticus

On Saturday, 14th July, at the Odeon of Herodes Atticus, in the context of the Greek Festival, the Greek Film Archive presents two movies, «Dafnis and Hloi» & «Αstero», playnig them in mute!

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Walking on one of the most characteristic pedestrian streets in the heart of the historic center of Athens, two meeting venues leave their own mark and tone. A rock bar and a dining restaurant on the street. Both have the same features: they stay open until dawn, offering quality services. If you are a night adventure-seeker in Athens, you come to Kalamiotou Street!

a place honoring the Big Lebowski movie and named by it’s main character. with the authenticity and atmosphere of a classic rock bar, the “Dude Bar� fills the nights with good music, quality drinks and fun until dawn. It is worth visiting!

Quality street food in the city center! Its burgers are something you have to taste! Definitely the best option after staying up late or even during the day if you want to eat something fast, nutritious and affordable!