Eng Guide 2019

City & Islands Guide 2019

Tune in to 102.5 fm and listen to the best music in the city

Publisher Fotis Georgeles Editorial Consultant: Editorial Director: Stavroula Panagiotaki Aggeliki Birbili Art Director: Konstantina Vlachopoulou IT Manager: Vaios Syntsirmas Web Content Manager: Dimitris Athanasiadis Editorial Team: Yannis Nenes, Nenela Georgele, Lena Chourmouzi, Takis Skrivanos, Georgia Skamanga, Yiannis Dimopoulos, Eleni Bezirianoglou, Katerina Vnatsiou, Marianna Marmara, Ero Partsakoulaki, Christie Perry, Nikos Papailliou, Errika Roussou Photographer: Thanasis Karatzas Copy Editor: Dimitra Grous

Advertising Coordinators: Niki Skamaga Digital Advertorial Coordinators: Efi Orfanakou Digital Traffic Manager: Evi Tarnari Financial Director: Efi Mourtzi Accounting: Ourania Michali, Maria Karahontziti, Vassilis Nakos, Mary Lykousi An annual publication of ATHENS VOICE S.A. Harilaou Trikoupi 22, 106 79 Athens-Greece Editorial: tel +302103617360 Advertising: tel +30210 3617530 www.bestofathens.gr e-mail: info@bestofathens.gr Copyright ATHENS VOICE 2019

ASE RECYC LE

LE

P

All rights reserved.

No part of this publication may be reproduced in any form without written permission from the publisher and copyright owner.

COVER PHOTO: @tasos_anestis_ photography / TASOS ANESTIS

@nba @giannis_an34

The photo of our cover has already traveled all over the world thanks to Giannis Antetokounmpo, who wore it at the lining of his suit, the day he was awarded as NBA's MVP for 2019!

PHOTO:

Advertising Director: Louiza Nathanail Group Advertising Manager: Eva Vaggeli Direct Market: Marina B. Georgiopoulou, Stefania Moustaki, Vassilis Zafiroulis, Krista Fotinopoulou

@g_mitropoulos_ / GEORGE MITROPOULOS

Creative Art Director: Fotis Pechlivanidis Layout & Design: Morfoula Vogiatzoglou, Sotos Anagnos

Dear friends,

Amidst the concrete gray buildings, the hustling and bustling of a contemporary metropolis, lies a colorful, vibrant, warm and friendly Athens, full of overwhelming contrasts and starling abstractions, contemporary urban architectural treasures, natural relaxing hideaways, an overflowing nightlife scene, a stirring local-driven and international culinary blend, while every street and every turn unveils immortal traces of the ancient Greek and European culture and glory.

Here at Athens Voice –Greece’s leading publication for 15 years– we are excited to welcome all of you to our beautiful country. In doing so, we have prepared our annual guide, packed with all of our insider knowledge and expertise of everything Athens has to offer; from a popular spot for drinks to an off-thebeaten-path art gallery, these are our favourite destinations!

We hope to be your trusted companion during your stay. Follow us @athensvoice and share your favorite moments on Instagram using the hastags #athensvoice, #lookmag, #tastevoice, #athensvoiceradio.

Enjoy your stay!

04 Welcome to Greece 08 The Monuments of Athens 10 Museums 16 Athens Epidaurus Festival 2019 18 Neighbourhoods 22 Stay Cool & find your Park 24 Shopping 30 Bookshops 32 Hotels 34 Restaurants 48 Wine 50 Bars & clubs 52 Beaches 56 Camping 60 Mykonos 72 Santorini 82 Paros 85 Naxos 88 Milos 97 Tinos 100 Syros 102 Skiathos 110 Maps 112 Metro SUMMER 2019 _ 3

ΑΤΗΕΝS TRivia » The rails on the pedestrian pathway at Makriyiannis Street, are the remnants of the old Athenian Tram which stopped operating in the early 60s. » The underground river flowing underneath Monastiraki Square, some of its parts now exposed in sight, is Eridanos river. » The longest road in Athens is Acharnon street, stretching for about 3 kilometers of length. » The narrowest is Kallipou street, about 2 meters in weidth.

It is located between Monastiraki square and Kapnikarea, intersecting Ermou Street. » The name of the english nobleman who removed the marbels of Parthenon is Thomas Bruce, 7th Earl of Elgin. » About 7% of all the marble produced in the world comes from Greece. » The first Athenian suburb was Kolonos. » Back in 1853 the population of Athens was 30,000. Today it exceeds 3,5 million. » The Presidential Guard (Evzones) in front of the Greek Parliament building at Syntagma, ˝rotates˝ every hour. » Facing the building of the Academy of Athens, the statue on the left is Plato and that on the right is Socrates.

4 _ SUMMER 2019

Welcome r e ec e to G

Greece: Associated by most with its long, sunny Greek summer, golden beaches, turquoise waters, traditional food by the sea. But our country is a lot more than this. There is a lot of history and a lot of happening now. Athens, the capital city, overcoming the crisis, is again a buzzing metropolis, a lively hive of creative spirit, with something of interest for all its visitors. There is “joie de vivre” in every corner of it. Below are some useful things to know from the minute you step foot in this wonderful country of contrasts.

By YANNIS NENES

Greece A to Z A

ATHENS Could Athens become the new Berlin? The BBC wondered not long ago. The city might look poor in aspects but there is a sexy vibe in it. Industrial spaces have turned into art venues, performance studios, places where much is happening. The hype is art and emerging artists are fleeing from all over Europe. Berlin, maybe not. But shaping its own modern identity, yes!

B BROKEN PAVEMENTS and slope warning Don’t expect properly conserved pavements and roads. So put on your sneakers instead of high heels!

BOUZOUKIA It used to be the ultimate Greek night-out. Large stages, whiskey & flowers thrown to the singer we like – don’ t ask why.

Younger greeks, now, prefer big concerts of tribal, balkan, ethnic beat.

C CROSS Older people will cross themselves when passing a church. It’s a common gesture for good luck. Notice many taxi drivers do it too.

D DRIVERS They are kind of sloppy. Following the street signs is something of a weak character. So beware.

DERTI “An unrelenting sense of loss or unfulfilled desire”. It’s a word to describe the feeling you get after a heartbreak, a sentiment Greeks love to sing about. Remember, “drama” Αlso a greek word.

DRUGS Cannabis in Greece is illegal for recreational purposes. In 2017 medical use of cannabis was legalized. If you are found carrying it around (or using it) you will probably get arrested.

E EATING in Athens Never fails to please.

There are hundreds of great places to eat in every part of the city. You will find a wonderful fusion of traditional and modern greek cuisine.

Just be careful of restaurants that seem very ˝touristic”– the food there is usually not the best.

F FOUSTANELLA Traditional pleated kilt that comes of the 19th century. It is worn by the guards of the former Royal Palace, Evzones, (meaning the “well-belted” elite soldiers, a term traced in Homerís times). In Syntagma square, you can take your picture next to them and see if they blink. Every so often they do a little march to break the monotony of standing still all day and at 6pm you can watch the changing of the guards. Just make sure that you do not stand in their way; they are not allowed to stop for any reason-instead, they can march-kick the obstacles with their pompom shoes.

FRAPPE SOCIETY Frappe coffee is the lifeblood of Greek society. Made with instant Nescafe mixed with water, ice, milk and lots of sugar, a frappe will provide you with the right amount of caffeine for your coffee break, and the right buzz to sip while gossiping and people watching. Now entries are the fredoccino, the frapuccino and everything as long as it’s cold and long to drink.

G GRAFFITI Athens is considered to be a paradise for graffiti artists, as most of them can go and spray wherever they want, mostly tagging their logos. Still, there are many wonderful wall arts made by creative graffiti artists who have their own colourful way to spray the city.

GREEK COFFEE Unfiltered coffee probably of Arabic/Turkish origin. Served hot in small

*

Happy is the man, I thought, who, before dying, has the good fortune to sail the Aegean Sea -Nikos Kazantzakis, “Zorba the Greek�

Photo:

@fotis_tsatsis / Fotis Tsatsis

Uploa your fa d vou momen rite instagr ts on am u the has sing h #athen tag svoice

SUMMER 2019 _ 5

cups. You drink only the liquid part. Greek coffee has to be made the traditional way that most die-hard old men in coffee shops (cafenéon) follow: boiled on hot sand (“chovoli”). There is a long tradition in old Greece of reading the remains in coffee cups and foretelling the future, a highly prized skill.

H HONEY An ancient super food. Hippocrates advised people to eat honey every day in order to live longer. From the early prehistoric times the art of apiculture and honey collection still remains a primary agriculture activity for Greeks. Due to long periods of sunshine, Greek honey is internationally known for its distinct biological and organoleptic characteristics.

The abrupt changes of landscape make Greek flora so rich, that 7,500 different species of plants are growing in Greece giving many different flavours of honey, especially in the region of Attica and Crete. You will want to try thyme honey, which cannot be found anywhere else in the world.

I INTERNET Greece has 3G and 4G+ mobile broadband and Satellite Internet access.

Greece also has an extensive fiber optic network throughout the country. Most cafes and restaurants offer free Wi-Fi. Ask for the password.

IT IS A SMOKER’S PARADISE Smoking is very popular in Greece and still relatively cheap compared to the rest of Europe. Nonsmoking signals in bars are not to be trusted. If you are looking for a smoke-free environment, ask the waitress.

J JEWELRY SHOPS Everywhere! Greek men don’t wear so much gold like the Italians do.

Except maybe, a golden cross their mama gave to them 30 years ago! Greek women love jewels but, most of all, tourists love handcrafted gold since it is inexpensive in Greece but also for its high quality and excellent craftsmanship.

K KAFSONAS If you hear this word on the news, be prepared: it means heatwave.

KIOSKS We call them “periptero” and they provide almost anything. Cigarettes, milk, snacks, condoms etc. Some of them stay open 24/7: that’s the best part of it.

KOULOURI Walking around the city, you will spot some men selling this round pastry coated in sesame seeds. It’s the most healthy snack you can find for a relatively small price (maximum €1,5). It’s the handy breakfast for most greeks, along with the morning coffee.

KEFI/KEFIA Means joy, spirit, passion, happiness, triumph, mojo, excitement, feeling good, having fun, loving life. If we had to choose only one word describing Greece’s values in general, this would be it.

6 _ SUMMER 2019

M ΑΤΗΕΝS TRivia » The Columns of Olympian Zeus are the remainings of a ˝gigantic˝ Temple dedicated to Zeus.

At its time, Olympieion as it was called, it was bigger than the Parthenon, in fact it was the biggest temple in Greece. » The Parthenon’s roof was kept well maintained for more than 2,000 years, until late 17th century, in 1687, when it was bombarded by the Venetians under Francesco Morosini. » The tallest building in Athens, and in the whole Greece, is the ˝Athens Tower˝ at Ampelokipi.

Its 28 floor-structure go up 103 meters to the sky. » Athens limits buildings to 12 floors so as not to block the view of the Parthenon. » There are 29 cities in the world named ˝Athens˝, seven of which are found in the United States. » The worldís third leading producer of olives, the Greeks have cultivated olive trees since ancient times. Some olive trees planted in the thirteenth century are still producing olives. » Greece enjoys more than 250 days of sunshine-or 3,000 sunny hours a year.

MALAKA The most common address between friends or enemies. Among friends it is used like “dude”. But if the person addressing you with this word looks angry, walk away because you never know!

MOUTZA You may notice that some drivers give an open palm gesture to each other. It’s a kind of an offensive curse of Byzantine, or French, or Venetian origin.

N ΝEOCLASSICAL HOUSES Beautiful buildings of the 19th century have survived and they have been renovated. Most of them in the area of Plaka.

O OWL Throughout the antiquity, goddess Athena and her companion owl served as city and primary coin type. What made the Athenian silver so popular and long lasting was its status as the definition of good money.

The modern Greek one-euro coin features the owl taken from the ancient Athenian fourdrachma piece, practically the first coin in the history of Europe. Artist Dimitris Kasdaglis draws owls on peebles hiding them in various places In the city, free for finders keepers.

P PALAMAKIA Clapping your hands rhythmically. Apart from showing appreciation, it’s also essential for dancing and having fun the greek way. Old greeks used to clap when they wanted to attract the waiter’s attention in tavernas.

PHILOTIMO Greeks are very proud of this word which cannot be translated. It means “the love of honour”, or "doing good”, and it refers to the concept of respecting values.

According to ancient Greek philosopher, Thales, “A Greek is not a Greek without it”.

PUBLIC TRANSPORT The subway (metro) in Athens is relatively new, clean and proper. But it’s far from covering the whole city. The subway’s three lines are line 1 (green), line 2 (red) and line 3 (blue). You can use the train to move from the North of the city to the port, and buses to move in the rest uncovered areas. The latter require patience and good will, because they are rarely on time.

Q QUEER ATHENS LGBTQ+ crowd is very active in Athens. Gay and lesbian clubs and bars can be found in Gkazi. You can find wild dance floors or quiet places within a kilometer of the metro station “Kerameikos”.

R REBETIKA Urban popular songs of the Greeks, especially the poorest, from the late 19th century to the 1950s, similar to the blues culture. The word is connected to the adjective “rebetis”, which means a person connected to some particular subculture.

@forbidden.designs / Dimitris Gelbouras Photo:

Dromeas (“Runner”) is a 12-meter-tall glass and iron sculpture created in 1994 by Athens artist CostasVarotsos, near the Hilton Athens Hotel on Vassilissis Sofias Avenue

RELAX The most important part of the Greek coffee ritual. Do a little chit chat, read a newspaper or just stay still thinking about great truths of life. Enjoy.

S SANDALS There are quite a lot new designers (Christina Martini and Nikolas Minoglou, London based Marios Schwab for Ancient Greek Sandals footwear label, Zali Sandals, Greek Salad Sandals, Grecian Chick, Zeus+Δione and DiGaia, Greece Is For Lovers design team) who have updated the classic Greek leather sandals to a new impressive level. Not just strappy, raw-edged leather flats but contemporary designs combining aesthetics of Ancient Greek sculpture and modern streetwise accessories fashion.

SUPERSITIONS Greeks have many. The strongest among them is the “evil eye” – If someone looks at you in a bad way, he will “give you the evil eye”, headache and bad luck.

That’s why we are very often wearing a small blue charm, for protection. It’s a common Mediterranean thing.

T TAXIS They are yellow, they are everywhere and, compared to other international cities, the rates are still cheap. You should always request a receipt for the amount paid, which should also indicate the taxi registration number and the driver’s name. If you do get overcharged don’t start a fight but report the licence plate to the Tourist police.

You can always use Uber, Beat and the TaxiPlon free applications for a ride, if you want to pay by card.

TAP WATER In Greece is fine. And bottled spring water is readily available. Nevertheless,

do not pay more than 50 cents for O,5L of bottled water.

V VEGETABLES Famous, well-loved greek summer dishes are made with fresh, ripe vegetables. If you want to buy vegetables, preferably but them from the farmer’s market (“laiki agora”). Held on various days of the week in neighborhoods throughout the city.

W WINE Is traditionally good in Greece and enjoyed in everyday meals. In small, old type taverns, wine is served in kartoutsos (kar-toutchos), metal jars in fixed sizes. Many new bohemians consider them to be excellent kitchenware.

WALKING When walking around the city centre, bear in mind that car drivers don’t usually respect the white-line crossings.

Never, ever cross a street if the green light is not on. Also, be careful for pickpockets.

Y YASSOU It is the a very common salute, meaning “hello”. Address a local like that to steal his heart and have him at hello. It comes from “health to you”.

YAMAS “Health to us all”. It’s the familiar greek way to say Cheers!

Z ZEIBEKIKO A Greek improvisational dramatic solo dance for men. Its name comes from Zeybeks, people of Asia Minor. The dancer is surrounded by other people, who kneel and clap to him. It is a renowned dance for “mangas”, the macho archetype in the Greek poetry of masculinity.

“NEVER ON A SUNDAY” Oscar winning music theme for the movie of the same name.

The composer, Manos Hadjidakis, is one of the most favorite Greek composers.

THE GREEK DIET It used to be simple: bread, cheese, vegetables, olive oil, wine, and on Sundays fish or pork. Beef was seldom eaten, and sheep and goats were kept mainly for hides, wool, and milk.

Nowadays, it’s a Sunday everyday.

GREEK BREAKFAST For many Greeks it consists of a quick coffee, “tyropita” (feta cheese pie) and cigarettes on the move.

SUMMER 2019 _ 7

The monuments

s n e h t A f o

Sites full of history

When you’re taking a walk at the centre of Athens, it’s like you’re taking a walk inside history.

The streets are full of some of the most famous monuments of the world (Parthenon is one of them). It’s actually a fact that if you’re visiting Athens, you’re going to be able to explore 17 Unesco World Heritage sites.

By NIKOLETTA STAMATI - Photo THANASIS KARATZAS

Acropolis of Athens Once Attica’s citadel Acropolis is a complex of magnificent buildings, some of the greatest architectural and artistic monuments of all time.

Gradually the Acropolis acquired a religious character. By far the most impressive monument of all is the temple of Parthenon, built by Ictinos and Kallikrates (447-432BC). It is the most important surviving building of Classical Greece, generally considered the zenith of the Doric order.

Parthenon The Parthenon combines the austere simplicity of the Doric order with the exquisite sophistication of the Ionic order. The temple was dedicated to the city’s goddess patron Athena. It was conceived as the centre of a monumental complex in the Acropolis and its main function was to house the great gold and ivory statue of the goddess made by Pheidias. Daily 08:0019:00 • Admission. Fee: €20 • Concessions: €10 (non-E.U. students/ over 65 y.o.) • Free admission: E.U. students Map N7 Akropoli, +302103214172

The Theatre of Dionysus and the Odeon of Herodes Atticus Dedicated to the god of theatre and wine, the Theatre of Dionysus is one of the oldest theatres of all time. Ιt used to house ancient Athens’s biggest theatre

8 _ SUMMER 2019

festival, Dionysia, thus the works of the three great dramatists, Aeschylus, Sophocles and Euripides were performed there. Map N6, N7 Akropoli

The Ancient Agora The heart of Ancient Athens, the Agora was the focus of political, commercial, administrative and social activity, the religious and cultural centre, and the seat of justice. The site was bustling with life throughout its history. This is literally the birthplace of Athenian Democracy. Daily 08:00-20:00 • Admission.

Fee: €8 • Concessions: €4 • Last Admission 19:45 Map L5 Thissio, +302103210185

Pnyx (Pnika) This small rocky hill, was the official meeting place of the Athenian democratic assembly. Greek word Pnyx means “tightly packed together”. The assembly embodied the equal right of anyone to speak about public issues.

Map M4 Akropoli

Filopappou Hill Also known as the Hill of the Muses, it is where Plutarch locates the battle between Theseus and the Amazons.

Filopappou also features a monument of the same name (a funerary column erected in 114-116AD), as well as a modern Observatory. Map P4 Akropoli

The Roman Agora & the Library of Hadrian The large monuments dating from the Roman era can be found north of the Acropolis and east of the Ancient Agora, in the district of Plaka, in an area of 28,000 sqm. It was built with a donation of Julius Caesar and Augustus. Other important monuments are the Gate of Athena Archegetis and the Water Clock (Horologion) or Tower of the Winds. Daily 08:00-20:00 • Admission.

Fee: Roman Agora €6 • Concessions: €3 Map K7 Monastiraki

Choragic Monument of Lysicrates The Monument of Lysicrates (335-334 BC) is the only surviving example of a choragic monumen. It was constructed to commemorate the award of first prize to one of the performances Lysicrates had sponsored.

Map M9 Monastiraki

Kerameikos Keramikos is small part of the ancient Attic Deme of Kerameon, one of the largest demes of ancient Athens, located on the northwest edge of the city. The area is extended both within and outside the ancient city walls. It was also the site of an important cemetery. Daily 08:00-19:30 • Admission Fee: €8 • Concessions: €4 • Free admission (E.U. stu-

dents/over 65 y.o./under 18 y.o.)

Map I4

Kerameikos, +302103463552

Panathenaic Stadium The Panathenaic Stadium is located on the site of an ancient stadium and for many centuries hosted games in which nude male athletes competed in track events, athletics championships as we would call them today. It is the Stadium of the first Modern Olympic Games and the world symbol of sports in Athens.

Daily 08:00-19:00 • Admission: €5 • Concessions:

€2,5 (Students and over 65 y.o., under 6 y.o. free)

Map O13 / Morning Jogging is allowed from 07:30 until 09:00 Syntagma/Akropoli, +302107522984-6

Temple of Olympian Zeus The Temple of Olympian Zeus was built over several centuries starting from 174 BC till 131 AD under the reighn of Roman emperor Hadrian. The site shows evidence of habitation from the Neolithic period while Pausanias claimed the ancient sanctuary to Zeus was first created at the site by the mythical figure of Deukalion.

Mon-Sun 08:00-20:00 • Admission Fee: €6 • Concessions: €3 Map O10 Akropoli

SUMMER 2019 _ 9

Museums e c e e r G f o e g a t i r e h

TheAcropolis Museum

Greece is famous for its rich history and culture. So, it’s not possible to visit the country’s capital, Athens, without exploring at least some of its numerous museums. They’re not limited to ancient history, but inside their walls you’ll find out a lot about other aspects of Greece like the military history of the nation and the greek traditions.

By NIKOLETTA STAMATI

The Acropolis Museum

It’s an architectural jewel in the city of Athens. A modern glass building that allows the natural sunlight to embrace the statues, while also providing visitors with breathtaking views of the Acropolis opposite. It holds more than 20,000 pieces, unearthed during excavations in Athens. Located on the ancient road Dionysiou Areopagitou that leads to the Sacred Rock, on which the Parthenon rises above Athens. The Acropolis Museum was voted one of Trip Advisor travelers’ choice in 2016. It was also third in the Sunday Times list of the 50 best museums of the world.

The museum is only 300 metres from the Acropolis and approximately two kilometres from Syntagma (Constitution) Square.

Where possible try to avoid visiting during the rush hours of 10:00 to 14:00.

Always begin the tour on the first floor at the northeast corner to best appreciate the significance of the Acropolis in the Mycenaean Period.

10 _ SUMMER 2019

Friday night at the museum Every Friday the Acropolis Museum stays open until 22:00 and its restaurant until midnight. Enjoy a special menu with beautiful night views of the Acropolis and great value for money. The restaurant occupies 700 square meter of public terrace and commands a breathtaking view of the historic hills of Athens. A variety of hot dishes based on traditional recipes, seasonally updated are on offer daily. Mon 08:00-16:00 Tue-Thu & Sat-Sun ●

08:00-20:00 Fri 08:00-22:00 Admission Fee: €10 Public entrance from Dionysiou Areopagitou/ Groups from Mitseon For: the ground floor Shop and Café, the purchase of a ticket is not required For: the second floor Shop and Restaurant, a free admission ticket is required from the Ticket Desk. Free admission EU students - ID required. ●

●

●

●

●

●

Map O8 Akropoli, 15 Dionysiou Areopagitou str., +302109000900, theacropolismuseum.gr

National Archaeological Museum

The largest museum in Greece, and one of the most important museums in the world was founded at the end of 19th century. The museum’s collection includes: Prehistoric period, the Sculptures collection (which demonstrates the development of ancient Greek sculpture form the 7th to the 5th centuries BC). The Vase and Minor objects collection (ancient Greek pottery) and the Metallurgy collection (with many fundamental statues). Highlights include the Golden Mask of Agamemnon that was unearthed by H. Schliemann in Mycenae. Latest additions include a 4th century BC gold funerary wreath and 6th century marble statue of a young woman, returned to Greece in 2007 by the Getty Museum in California.

The museum is a 19th century neoclassical building, hosting more than 11,000 exhibits, and covers an area of 8,000 sq. metres, it was designed by L. Lange and remodeled by Ernst Ziller. Make sure that you have plenty of time to spend at the museum, at least 3 to 4 hours or an entire day.

Don’t forget to visit the atrium’s garden, recently

© Acropolis Museum / Photo by George Vitsaropoulos

l a r u t l u c e h t g n i s u o H

@karatzas_thanasis / THANASIS KARATZAS PHOTO:

NationalArchaeological Museum

renovated, which displays 700 plants, many of them referred to in Greek mythology.

Tue 12:30-20:00 Wed-Mon 08:00-20:00 Admission fee: €10 Reduced admission: €5 Reduced admission for: Escorting parents on educational visits of primary schools, citizens of other Member – States of the European Union who are over 65 years old, upon presentation of their ID card or passport for verification of their age and country of origin and students of University – Higher Education Institutes, Technological Educational Institutes or equivalent Schools of countries from outside the European Union, upon presentation of their student ID cards Free admission for: Visitors under 18 y.o., students from E.U. countries, admission card holders (Free Entrance Card, Culture Card, ICOM, ICOMOS), guides (by showing their professional cards), members of Societies of Friends of Museums and Archaeological Sites of Greece, by showing their membership card, escort of blind people and escort of persons with mobility difficulties. ●

●

●

●

●

Map C10 Victoria, 44 Patission (28 October) str., Victoria, +302132144800, namuseum.gr

Cycladic Art Museum

It was founded in 1986, to hold the collection of Nicholas and Dolly Goulandris. Since then it has grown in size to accommodate new acquisitions and important donations by important collectors. Ancient cultures of the Aegean and Cyprus, both permanent and temporary exhibits of approximately 3,000 objects from all phases of Cycladic, Ancient Greek and Cypriot art are housed in the two buildings of this museum. With special emphasis on the Cycladic Art of the 3rd millennium BC. The glass-roofed corridor that connects the modern building of Neofytou Douka Street to the restored 19th century neoclassical Stathatos Mansion is a feast for the eyes.

Don’t forget to visit the new Cycladic café that brings the taste of Aegean fresh air into the City of Athens, in more ways than one! It is the perfect place to enjoy your breakfast, brunch, lunch or just a coffee.

Mon-Wed-Fri-Sat 10:00-17:00 Thu 10:00-20:00 Sun 11:00-17:00 Closed Tue Admission fee: €7, Mon €3.5 Group visits (groups of 15 or more): €5/ person Reduced fee: €3.5 Reduced fee for: Seniors (over 65 y.o.), 19-26 y.o. and students Free admission for: Kids and young persons under 18, ●

●

●

●

●

●

●

●

visitors with disabilities and their companion, archaeologists, archaeology and art history students, members of ICOM-ICOMOS, journalists, qualified guides. Map K14 Syntagma/ Evangelismos, Vasilissis Sofias& 1 Herodotou str., Kolonaki, +302107228321-3, cycladic.gr

The Byzantine & Christian Museum

Over 25,000 artifacts from between the 3rd and 20th century AD: Early Christian, Byzantine, Medieval, postByzantine and later periods. The size and range of the collections and value of the exhibits make the Museum a veritable treasury of Byzantine and post-Byzantine art and culture. It also houses a conservation department.

You can admire reconstructions of parts of early churches, wonderfully preserved mosaic floors and wall paintings. The early Christian ecclesiastical artifacts and icons can offer a foretaste for those eager to make a tour of Athens’s abundant churches. The building was originally the villa of the eccentric French-American philhellene the Duchess of Plaisance. Inspired by the Greek War of Independence, she resolved to fund a museum.

Mon 08:00-20:00 Τue: 12:30-20:00 Wed-Sun: 08:00-20:00 Admission fee: €8 Concessions: €4 Concessions for: EU senior citizens over 65 on presentation of their passport or ID card and Students of University - Higher Education Institutes, Technological Educational Institutes, Military Schools or equivalent Schools of EU member states, as well as Schools of Guides, upon presentation of their student identity card Free admission for: ICOMICOMOS membership card holders, EU citizens in Higher or Further education on presentation of their student ID, young people under 19 on presentation of their ID card, guides, on presentation of their Hellenic Ministry of Development ID and people accompanying blind visitors and people with mobility disabilities. Map K15 Evangelismos, 22 Vasilissis Sofias str., Kolonaki, ●

●

●

●

●

●

+302132139572, byzantinemuseum.gr

The War Museum

The War Museum was found in 1964, to honor all those who fought for the country’s freedom. It presents many important periods of Hellenic History. It explores military conflicts, including the Asia Minor campaign, the Balkan

*

SUMMER 2019 _ 11

Benaki Museum / Pireos 138

Wars, the involvement of Greek forces in Korea and even Cyprus-related conflicts. It features 18th and 19th century swords, handguns and military uniforms. Standout exhibits include the full-scale model of the Daedalus and the fighter planes in front of the entrance. Visitors are recommended to start their visit from the first floor that hosts the hall of antiquities.

Everyday 09:00-19:00 Admission fee: €4 Concessions: €2 Concessions for: Non - EU College and University students, by presenting their student ID, senior EU Citizens (over the age of 65), by presenting their ID card or passport and Non EU individuals of 18 years old and under Free admission for: visitors under 19 years old who are citizens of countries/members of the EU, by presenting their ID, university students from E.U. countries, senior citizens (over 65 y.o.), ICOM card holders, registered tour guides, by presenting the corresponding ID, journalists, by presenting their press card and individuals with special needs ( e.g. disabled, blind) and their escorts. ●

●

●

●

Map K16

Evangelismos, 2 Rizari str., Evangelismos, +302107244464

National Historical Museum

Even the building that this museum is housed in since 1960 is historical: it was once the first Greek House of Parliament. Its symbol is the commanding bronze statue of General Theodoros Kolokotronis, located in front of its entrance. The museum trails the history of Greece since the fall of the Byzantine Empire in 1453 through archival records, photographs, costumes and flags.

Tue-Sun 08:30-14:30 Closed Mon Admission fee: €3 Concessions: €1.5 Concessions for: students and senior citizens (+65 y.o.) Free admission: every Sun, under 18 y.o. Map J11 Syntagma, 13 Stadiou str., Syntagma, +302103237617 ●

●

●

●

Numismatic Museum of Athens

One of the oldest public museums in Greece, founded in 1834 it hosts a wide collection of coins, medals, as well as 12 _ SUMMER 2019

gems dating from Classical, Macedonian, Roman and Byzantine eras up to the foundation of the Modern Greek state. The collection is housed in Iliou Melathron, a neoclassical building near Syntagma (Constitution) Square. It was built and designed by German architect Ernst Ziller, and was originally the residence of celebrated archaeologist Heinrich Schliemann, the father of Mycenaean and Trojan archaeology.

Tue-Sun 08:30-15:30 Closed Mon Admission fee: €6 Concessions: €3 Concessions for: citizens of Member - States of the European Union who are over 65 years old, upon presentation of their ID card or passport for verification of their age and country of origin and students of University - Higher Education Institutes, Technological Educational Institutes or equivalent Schools of countries from outside the European Union, upon presentation of their student ID cards Free admission for: under 18 y.o., journalists upon presentation of their journalist identity card, members of the ICOM-ICOMOS, upon presentation of their membership card, persons with disabilities (67 % or over) and one escort, upon presentation of the certification of disability issued by the Ministry of Health or a medical certification from a public hospital, students of University - Higher Education Institutes, Technological Educational Institutes, Military Schools or equivalent Schools of EU member states, as well as Schools of Guides, upon presentation of their student identity card and tourist guides upon presentation of their professional ID card Lift access for persons with mobility difficulties. ●

●

●

●

●

Map J11 Syntagma, 12 Panepistimiou str., Syntagma, +302103632057, +302103612834, +302103612872

Jewish Museum

The aim of this museum is to provide a vivid picture of Jewish life and culture over a 2,300 year course. The museum displays more than 10,000 artifacts (some of them unique), investigating the Greek - Jewish experience in both religious and secular terms, in an area

●

Cycladic Café / Museum of Cycladic Art

of 800 sqm. Also, there are plenty of planned activities and exhibitions. Mon-Fri 09:00-14:30 Sun 10:00-14:00 Closed Sat Ad●

●

●

mission fee: €6 Concessions: €3 (for students) Guided tours for groups: €50 (upon arrangement) Map L10 Syntagma, 39 Nikis str., Syntagma, +302103225582 ●

●

A major institution and landmark in the City of Athens, the museum is located in the upmarket district of Kolonaki. This impressive neoclassical building hosts more than 40,000 items in its permanent collection, illustrating the character of the Greek world through a spectacular historical panorama: from antiquity and the age of Roman domination to 1922, the year the Asian Minor disaster took place. Its founder, Antonis Benakis, belonged to one of the leading families of the Greek diaspora. Mon, Wed, Fri, Sat 10:00-18:00 Thu 10:00-00:00 Sun 10:00-16:00 ●

●

Closed Tue Admission fee: €9 Temporary exhibition: €7 Reduced: €7 Reduced on temporary exhibition: €5 Reduced for: students, persons over 65y.o., archaeologists and European Youth Card holders Free admission for: under 22 y.o, museum members, guides and ICOM members. Map K13 Syntagma, 1 ●

●

●

●

●

Koumbari &Vasilissis Sofias, Kolonaki, +302103671000, benaki.org

Benaki Museum / Pireos 138

●

●

●

●

Kerameikos, Pireos 138, Rouf, +302103453111, benaki.org

Benaki Museum of Islamic Art

Benaki Museum of Greek Culture

●

●

●

Map K1

Arts - Galleries

●

Fri, Sat 10:00-22:00 Closed Mo-Wed Also closed in August Admission fee: €6-8 Reduced admission: €3-4 Reduced for: students, persons over 65y.o., archaeologists and European Youth Card holders Free admission for: under 22 y.o, museum members, guides and ICOM members ●

Α vast industrial space (8,200 sqm with underground areas of 2,800 sqm and an internal courtyard of 850 sqm. The exhibition halls span 3,000 sqm). It is dedicated to contemporary art and design and has no permanent collections. The Museum gift shop is filled with unique pieces for house design and decoration. The caférestaurant on the ground floor serves a good selection of dishes and is a good place for breakfast. Thu, Sun 10:00-18:00

Collections from India, Persia, Mesopotamia, Asia Minor, Middle East, Arabia, Egypt, North Africa, Sicily and Spain.

The Benaki Museum of Islamic Art demonstrates more than 8,000 works of art, including ceramics, gold, metalwork, textiles and glass, smaller groupings of bone objects, inscribed funerary steles and weaponry, as well as the marble-faced interior of a reception room from a 17th-century Cairo mansion. Ιt also includes a section of the ancient city wall of Athens and an ancient tomb both uncovered at the level of the houses’ foundations during the preservation works. Don’t leave without a glimpse at the view from its terrace café. Thu-Fri-Sat-Sun 10:00-18:00 ●

Closed Mon-Tue-Wed The Café is open every Saturday until 23:00 Admission fee: €9 Concessions: €7 Reduced for: students, persons over 65y.o., archaeologists and European Youth Card holders Free admission for: under 22 y.o, museum members, guides and ICOM members. ●

●

●

●

●

Map I5

Thissio, 22 Ag. Asomaton str. & 12 Dipilou str., +302103251311, benaki.org

Herakleidon

The museum and its annex consist of two small and beautiful neoclassical buildings that look more like large homes rather than museums. Now days the motto of the museum is “Science, Art and Technology of the Ancient Greeks” and it’s hosting the exhibition “Eureka”, which is presenting the most representative of the ancient Greek technological accomplish- ments, in the area of War SUMMER 2019 _ 13

© Thanasis Karatzas

tips

EMST, Museum of Contemporary Art

military technology. The mighty war ship trireme, that ruled Mediterranean for almost ten centuries, armors, large weapons, walls, siege machines and communication systems among others, are things that you can see or learn about. Don’t forget to visit the gift shop, offering a wide selection of collectables that have been inspired by the periodic visual arts exhibitions including M.C. Escher, Constantin Xenakis and Toulouse-Lautrec.

Mon, Tue 10:00-15:00 Wed-Sun 10:00-18:00 Admission fee: €7 Concessions: €5 Concessions for: yound adults 12-18 y.o., students and pensioners Free admission for: children up to 12 y.o., ICOM members and journalists Family ticket: €14 (2 adults with 1 child) and €19 (2 adults with 2 children). Annex: 37 ●

●

●

●

●

●

Apostolou Paulou str., Thissio, +302103461981, herakleidon-art.gr

Industrial Gas Museum

Housed in an industrial heritage building, that supplied energy and lighting in the Athens metropolitan area for 130 years. It opened its doors in 2013, the site where the Technopolis of Athens is now located, approximately 30 years after the Athens gasworks permanently closed down. Visitors have the opportunity to tour the plant’s facilities, observe the coal gas production line and discover a forgotten part of the history of Athens. The exhibits include a rich collection of photographs and archive material as well as audiovisual material, including short films and recorded interviews of factory workers and residents of the area. The collection is further enriched with items from the factory itself as well as interactive applications.

It is the first industrial museum in Athens.

Tue, Wed, Fri, Sat 10:00-18:00 Thu, Sun 10:00-21:00 Admission fee: €1. ●

●

Map J1 Kerameikos, 100 Pireos str., Kerameikos, +302130109325, 2130109300, technopolis-athens.com

Ilias Lalaounis Jewellery Museum

It was established in 1993, its permanent collection includes over 4,000 pieces of jewelry and micro sculptures from over 50 collections, designed by the museum’s founder, Ilias Lalaounis, between 1940 and 2000. Lalaounis is the country’s most internationally renowned artist and jeweler. The permanent collection is enriched with donations including jewelry and decorative arts from all over the world. Lucky “Big spenders” usually head straight to the shop for 24K gifts! The museum includes many programs such as: jewelry design, making, gemology, art history, children’s theatre, special workshops on temporary exhibitions.

Tue, Thu, Fri 9:00-15:00 Wed, Sat 9:00-21:00 Closed Sun and Mon Admission fee: €5 Concessions: €4 Concessions for: Students and senior citizens Free admission for: under 12 y.o., people with disabilities, archaeologists, journalists, members of ICOM and qualified tourist guides.

Free admission every Saturday and throughout August (except for special tours). Map O7 Akropoli, Karyatidon & 12 Kalisperi str., Plaka +302109221044, la●

●

●

laounis-jewelrymuseum.gr 14 _ SUMMER 2019

●

●

» It’s worth visiting the Greek National Tourism Information Office (Areopagitou 18-20, just opposite the Acropolis Museum entrance), for info on opening hours, entrance fees and events. » Some museums let EU students in for free (others charge half price) and offer concessions for citizens over 65 and under 19. Do not forget your ID. » In July and August the mercury can soar to 40°C (over 100 F). Therefore, it’s always better to visit in the early hours of the day when the sun is low and temperatures are lower. » Wednesdays are usually the quietest days to visit any museum in the capital. » Some museums remain closed on Mon or Tue. » Many museums include a virtual tour of their space on their websites.

It’s better to visit a museum prepared, rather than trying to orient yourself at the last minute

Municipal Gallery of Athens

The gallery’s collections feature the visual works of 3,000 artists –most of them Greek–, representative of the trends, influences and discussions which have marked the journey of Greek art. The museum is housed in a neoclassical building, which was abandoned until 1854 and later housed a silk processing plant, a shopping and residential complex, and the headquarters of the Hellenic Police. Of special interest are the drawings of German architect Ernst Ziller, father of neoclassical design in modern Greece.

Tue-Sat 10:00-24:00 and 17:00=21:00 Sun 10:00-14:00 Closed Mon Free admission. Map G4 Metaxourgeio, Le●

●

●

onidou & Mylerou str., +302103243023, 2103231841

Museum of Modern Greek Culture

A treasure trove of Greek folk embroidery, weaving, traditional costumes and household items. The highlight is on the first floor: a reconstructed room from a house on the island of Lesvos with a series of murals by folk artist Theofilos. If you are a pompom shoes lover, (tsarouchia- traditional leather shoes) you will really enjoy your visit to the museum.

Mon-Sun: 10:00-19:00 Closed Tue Admission fee: €2 Concessions: €1 Concessions for: students from non E.U. countries, senior citizens from E.U Free admission: persons under 19, EU students, classical studies and Art students, journalists, ICOM-ICOMOS members, tour guides and disabled people. ●

●

●

●

Map M10

Akropoli, 22 Panos str., Plaka, +302103229031, melt.gr

Museum of Ancient Agora

A small museum housed in the renovated Stoa of Attalos, within the archaeological site of the Ancient Agora. Its collection mainly consists of findings from wells, deposits, burials, workshops and sanctuaries. The highlights include art dating all the way back to the stone age, everyday life objects, and artifacts related to the Athenian democratic functions during the Classical period. It is where in 2003 the Treaty of the European Union enlargement was signed.

Tue-Sun 08:30-15:30 Mon 10:00-15:30 Admission fee: €8 Concessions: €4 Concessions for: citizens of Member - States of the European Union who are over 65 years old and students of University - Higher Education Institutes, Technological Educational Institutes or equivalent Schools of countries from outside the European Union Free admission for: EU students, persons up to 18 y.o., members of the ICOM-ICOMOS ●

●

●

●

●

SUMMER 2019 _ 15

Athens Greek Festival

The best of Greek and International culture scene at the major art event of summer The cultural Greek scene, a celebration of the Arts, is coming back again this summer introducing the new wave of contemporary trends in theatre, music and dance along with the country's rich heritage of ancient drama in its finest, original form. Step into the glorious, most ancient and significant theatres of the world and to other historically important venues as well and feel the excitement of an utterly artistic summer. More at greekfestival.gr

By Errika Roussou

La Traviata

Odeon of Herodes Atticus The second Greek National Opera production featured in this year’s Athens Festival, “La Traviata” is directed by Konstantinos Rigos, the groundbreaking choreographer and director of the Greek National Opera Ballet who is highly experienced with big productions. Based on Alexandre Dumas fils’ novel La Dame aux Camélias, Verdi’s extremely popular opera, famous for its irresistibly seductive melodies, will make its Odeon debut, with the famous Lisette Oropesa in the title role.

Hove once again joins forces with the company of Comédie-Française, delivering another impressive gallery of characters, focusing on the House Atreides. This second collaboration of Comédie-Française with one of the internationally acclaimed masters of theatre, this time on an ancient Greek tragedy, was the perfect opportunity for Éric Ruf, general administrator of Comédie-Française, and Vangelis Theodoropoulos, artistic director of Athens & Epidaurus Festival, to bring together these two great institutions of European theatre in a collaborative project.

27-28/7 at 21:00, 30-31/7 at 00:00

` 26-27/7 at 21:00

Electra / Orestes

Little Theatre of Ancient Epidaurus One of the most famous and iconic love stories of all time, the pastoral idyll “Daphnis and Chloe” is one of the earliest novels ever written and the only surviving work of the writer Longus from Lesbos, whose life is mostly

`

Ancient Theatre of Epidaurus Following the hugely successful “The Damned” which premiered at the Cour d’Honneur of the Palais des Papes at the Festival d’Avignon 2016 and was repeated at Salle Richelieu, Ivon van 16 _ SUMMER 2019

Daphnis + Chloe

shrouded in mystery.

` 19-20/7 at 21:30 The Danaids

Little Theatre of Ancient Epidaurus The apex of Andreas Kalvos’ literary career, the tragedy “Le Danaidi” (The Danaids), the only one that the writer completed and published in his lifetime (1818), epitomizes neoclassical plays, both reconstructing and updating the format of ancient drama. The tragedy draws on the myth of the Danaids, through fragments found across various mythical and literary sources, including Aeschylus’ The Suppliants. The play is set in the city of Argos, where the fifty sons of Aegyptus ask the fifty daughters of the king and Aegyptus’ brother, Danaus, to marriage. Danaus fears that one of his sons-in-law will dethrone him, having already received word about this from the oracle. With Greek and English surtitles.

` 2-3/8 at 21:30

Little theatre of Epidaurus © Evi Fylaktou

“Ilektra - Orestis” © Ivo Van Hove

Natasa Triantafilli, “Danaides” © Lambros Roumeliotakis

Picasso and Antiquity, Line and Clay

Museum of Cycladic Art In the exhibition “Picasso and Antiquity, Line and Clay”, rare Picasso works, depicting sea creatures, animals, human figures, mythological episodes, scenes inspired from ancient tragedies and comedies, find themselves juxtaposed with ancient artifacts, thus creating a true “Divine Dialogue”. Picasso was exposed to ancient art, not only through the ancient monuments he visited in the Mediterranean, but also through the various classical museums in Europe, through books and through his discussions with Christian Zervos and Jean Cocteau.

Organised with the exceptional support of the Musée national Picasso-Paris on the occasion of the Picasso-Méditerranée.

Dimitris Bogdanos, “Dafnis Cloe” © Yiannis Zahos Museum of Cycladic Art/ Picasso Antiquity © Succession Picasso

` 20/6 -20/10/2019 at 10:00 SUMMER 2019 _ 17

The uniqueness of athenian ods

neighbourho

The neighbourhoods of Athens are very interesting. They don’t all look alike, every one of them has a different aesthetic and they can please different people with completely different tastes. Each one of them can offer to any visitor a unique experience.

By NIKOLETTA STAMATI - Photo:

18 _ SUMMER 2019

@pastelidis_greece / Chris Pastalidis

Piraeus

The necessary spot before visiting the islands, Pireus also embodies a large urban legacy.

Its habitants consider themselves living in a completely different city than Athens. Foreign visitors and locals alike enjoy their fish and coffee by the sea here in the romantic little port of Mikrolimano. (Take the green metro line to the south terminal station)

Glyfada

Trendy summer destination, coastal, roughly 14 km south of

the city centre. Posh neighbourhood, which combines beaches, nightlife and shopping.

The area also features luxury hotels and four marinas fully equipped for every type of yacht. (Take the tram to Voula from Syntagma sq.)

Exarcheia

Traditionally a hothouse for intellectuals, radicals, artists, youngsters, musicians and bohemian types. A very special, leftish neighbourhood, not very clean but urban, lively, youthridden- it is flooded with vintage and second-hand stores, record

stores, eateries and inexpensive hotels. Bordered by Asklipiou, Akadimias and Patissionst.

(October 28th)

Monastiraki Thisseio

A very popular tourist destination. Τhose two neighborhoods are both hype and traditional, combining the casual popular bars with sites of historical interest. Monastiraki is the flea market neighborhood in the old quarters of the city of Athens and one of the principal shopping districts in * Athens. Thisseio is equally

SUMMER 2019 _ 19

popular with its two pedestrian roads, Apostolou Pavlou and Dionysiou Areopagitou being ideal for a romantic promenade.

Mixed architectural styles, crumbling houses juxtaposed against concrete gloomy structures, empty facades next to sound buildings, rows of elegant neoclassical edifices, remnants of the city’s immortal heritage. Discover the best of Athens through the subjective experience and objective knowledge of Nikos Vatopoulos and his unique compilation of photos and accompanying articles that came about from walking in the picturesque alleyways and the hidden backstreets of the city. “Walking in Athens” is not just another city guide. It is a lavish book overflowing with the city’s emotions, its people coming and going, its established social perspectives; a guide to an urban secret landscape worth exploring.

Metaichmio Publications, €14,94

Historic Centre

Athens moves around the city centre a lot, so its historic centre is busy during the day. Corporate headquarters and many art hubs are found there. To fully experience it you have to walk and gaze at its numerous landmarks and neoclassical buildings. Bordered by Stadiou, Athinas&Ermou St., Acropolis, Amalias & Mitropoleos St.

Kolonaki

Plaka

Kifissia

Kolonaki

Traditionally upper class area, both residential and commercial.

It’s considered to be one of the richest areas in Athens, and is also a trendy hot spot for politicians, journalists and trendsetters. Bordered by Vassilissis Sofias, Akadimias St. and Lycabettus Hill.

Kifissia

An area in Northern Athens which used to be a summerhouse residential area, is now one of the wealthiest neighbourhoods of Athens.

Replete with cycling lanes, a pedestrianisedcentre, impressive mansions, huge shopping centres and parks.

(Take the green metro line to the north - terminal station) When walking around the city, don’t hesitate to ask a local for advise.

Whether you are looking for a cool restaurant or your way to the metro station, Greeks are very eager to give directions.

20 _ SUMMER 2019

© THANASSIS KARATZAS

Nikos Vatopoulos

© theodoti charitou

Must see district, maybe the most beautiful and traditional in Athens. It is built in the area immediately surrounding the Hill of Acropolis and is the foremost tourist destination. Picturesque area with small houses and many cafés, almost entirely pedestrianised – thus not accessible by car. Bordered by the Acropolis, Amalias and Mitropoleos St.

© CHRISTOS KEDRAS

Plaka

SUMMER 2019 _ 21

Stay Coolo& ur Park find y

Urban spots for breaths of fresh air

© THANASIS KARATZAS

By ERO PARTSAKOULAKI, Elisa Sinadinou

B

eyond all expectations, Athens has many fine parks and green areas, you will be surprised by both their size and beauty.

Press pause on your intense sightseeing and enjoy secret gardens, hills and many outdoor spaces where green is the only colour around.

The National Garden There was a time when Greece had its own Royal family. Before doing some research in Greek History, take the time to visit the National Garden, designed and created by Queen Amalia in the 19th century. An earthy heaven right in the centre of Athens with meandering bench-laden paths, cool trees and popular ponds, that make it a favourite stroll for everyone. For the garden aficionados, there is also a Botanical Museum, while for the little ones (or those young at heart), there is a Childrens’ Museum. Map L12 Syntagma

Zappeion Garden

The place where most Athenians 22 _ SUMMER 2019

spent their childhood Sundays.

Situated right next to the National Garden, it is actually an extension, Zappeion Garden generously provides a serene getaway from the hustle and bustle. Take a walk among wonderfully crafted statues, enjoy hidden green corners and don’t miss out on the acclaimed café and restaurant as you move further along its paths.

Map N11 Syntagma

Botanical Garden Diomidous Gardens

A designated wildlife sanctuary with an overwhelming abundance of flora (more than 3,000 varieties), extending over a vast area of 1,800 hectares in Athens’s western suburbs.

Overseeing Korydallos, Dafni and Agia Varvara regions, the Botanical Garden offers a lovely, invigorating scenic stroll. Within its expansive serene grounds, you can find numerous kinds of plants, some of which are exceedingly rare, as well as a dedicated botanic section with pharmaceutical plants. Many

university students choose this garden for their summer concerts. 08:00-20:00, Sat-Sun 10:00-20:00. Iera Odos 403, Votanikos

`

Lycabettus Hill

If you choose to get there on foot, reaching the top can turn into quite an adventure. The strenuous but rewarding walk to the summit via the stairs was built by the “Union of Forest Friends” between 1908 and 1918. Walking along the existing path, you will take breaths of fresh air whilst passing under the pine trees on the hillside, an ideal habitat for dozens of bird species. If walking is not your thing, there is always the option of the funicular railway or even the car. Park somewhere over the hill or enjoy the excellent views of the entire city and the Saronic Gulf after your short funicular ride. The most popular attraction of Lycabettus is the small gleaming-white picturesque church of Saint George. Get there and find yourself in one of the most popular spots on postcards

SNFCC

© Leonidas Kalpaxidis

One of most incredible parks of Athens. Linked by an ecological concept, physical topography and functionality to the National Library of Greece and the Greek National Opera, the Stavros Niarchos Park is a vital green space, a breath of life for Athens and an important addition to a city with the lowest per capita green space in Europe. A respite from urban concrete, the Park provides opportunities for learning, recreation, rest, and new experiences, all summer long! Find out more at www. snfcc.org (Admission free)

of Athens! Map F16 Evangelismos

Pedion tou Areos

Recently renovated and despite its infamous side, Pedion tou Areos is worth a visit as it is a historical park, one of the oldest in Athens. Located within easy walking distance from the National Archaeological Museum, it’s a good choice for a walk in the daytime, but not as attractive after dark. Its expansive treelined vistas are excellent for a pleasant stroll while admiring the numerous impressive statues of Greek heroes of the War of Independence. Map A11

Philopappou Hill

A trip straight back to the ancient times. Visit one of the most beautiful hills of Athens, close to the Acropolis, step on the rocks where in the past (since the 5th century B.C.) great Greek statemen, generals and orators –such as Themistocles, Aristides, Pericles and Demosthenes– used to address the public. Known at the time as the Hill of the Muses, the hill forms a green area south

west of the Acropolis with great views to the Parthenon, the city and the Aegean Sea that surrounds Attica. In 115 A.D. a monument dedicated to the exiled Roman Prince Gaius Julius Antichus Philopappos of Commagene was erected on top of the hill, giving it its current name “Philopappos”. Map O5 Akropoli

Akademia Platonos

A significant cultural centre of Athens in ancient times, Akademia Platonos or “Plato’s Academy” is the place where philosopher Plato taught his disciples back in the 5th century B.C. These days, it is an oasis of green filled with monuments, ideal for strolls and picnics. It is a favourite among youngsters who often gather there for parties, feasts and festivities. It also houses the “Cooperative Café”, a hangout for more alternative crowds, offering mezedes and rakomelo. Map E2

Garden of the Athens Concert Hall (Megaron)

Culture found its ultimate shelter

right on its doorstep. Megaron Concert Hall is among the best cultural places in the country and its garden is the perfect place to enjoy art. An oasis of green in the heart of the city, it hosts many cultural events in the summer, and enjoying a concert while lying on its grass is a must-do.

Map E21 Megaro Moussikis, Vasilissis Sofias& Kokkali

Dexameni

All day restaurant-café, the place to be if you want to chill while watching posh passers-by. This café is one of the oldest hangouts of the Greek intellectual scene.

Mon-Sun 10:00-01:00. Map I15 Evangelismos, Dexamenis Sq, Kolonaki, +302107224609

`

Parko Eleftherias

A romantic restaurant-café, offering delicious modern Greek cuisine along with cocktails. One of the city’s greenest meeting points. Mon-Sun 10:00-01:30.

Map H21 Megaro Moussikis, Vasilissis Sofias, Kolonaki, +302107223784

`

SUMMER 2019 _ 23

24 _ SUMMER 2019

Shopping Athenianyl e

st

International Brands Bright, minimal boutique with small wonders.

Map I13 Evangelismos, 17 Skoufa Str., Kolonaki, +302107290151

The Devil wears them and here you too can purchase a small “devilish” piece. Then you might want to change your name to Meryl.

Map I13 Panepistimio, 17 Voukourestiou Str., Kolonaki, +302103388386

Enny Di Monaco

Sotris

Balenciaga

Mugler, Louboutin, Nina Ricci, Zac Posen... shall we say more?

Map J15 Evangelismos, 23 Herodotou Str., Kolonaki, +302107290805/ Tria Pigadia, Mykonos, +302289077100

Free Shop

Perfect T-shirts, unique jewellery and accessories. A modern “Colette”. Map I13 Panepistimio, 17 Skoufa Str., +302103616200

Gucci

Indulge yourself. Don’t forget the Jackie ’O purse.

Map I13 Evangelismos, 27 Tsakalof Str., Kolonaki, +302103602519

Hermès

Endless window shopping.

Arty displays. Hermès.

Map I13 Panepistimio, City Link, 1 Voukourestiou Str., Kolonaki, +302103233715

Linea Piu

Greek Rue Cambon. Chanel, Blumarine, Galliano, Tom Ford.

All chosen carefully.

Map K13 Panepistimio, 6 Sekeri Str., Kolonaki, +302103606125, lineapiu.gr

Tezenis

Cosmopolitan stores with youthful collections of underwear, beachwear and nightwear, enhanced every week with new items. For women, men and kids.

Map I8 Panepistimio, 28 Stadiou Str., +302103225469

Calzedonia

Authentic, trendy and fashionable socks and beachwear for women, men and kids, in a highly competitive quality / price ratio.

Map K8 Syntagma, 21 Stadiou Str., +302106840005/ 17 Solonos Str., +302103605775

Intimissimi

Style does matter and this is the real thing. Map I13 Panepistimio, 19 Voukourestiou Str., Kolonaki, +302103613938

Luisa

Graffito

Designer names from Lanvin and Chloé to Cavalli and Stella McCartney. Not forgetting Yves Saint Laurent, ManoloBlahnik, Pucci and Jean Paul Gaultier.

Map I13 Panepistimio, 15 Skoufa Str., Kolonaki, +302103635600, luisa.gr

By eleni bezirianoglou Photo: thanasis karatzas

Glamorous clothes from famous exclusive brands like Topshop, Dries Van Noten, Marni. Vintage pieces can be found at the first address.

Map I13 Panepistimio, 41 Voukourestiou & Tsakalof Str., Kolonaki, +302103610662/ Golden Hall, 1st floor, sotris.gr

Amazing lingerie with simple, elegant Italian style, for both men and women.

Map K10 Syntagma, 21 Stadiou Str., +302106840005

Louis Vuitton

Whatever your shopping tastes and needs, in Athens you’ll find everything money can buy.

From big shopping malls to small boutique shops, get ready to indulge yourself and take advantage of the summer sales until the end of August.

Prada

Mah Jong

A men’s store with excellent international brands. If you have a passion for KITON men’s suits, you will find them in a wide variety and surmesure. You will also find the insuperable leather accessories of the Neapolitan brand Tramontano, Sartori, Santangelo, John Lobb shoes, Roda’s wonderful silk scarves and more. Map J13 Panepistimio, 14 Kanari Str., Kolonaki, +302103622860

Shopping at Graffito is a unique experience. Individually-selected items from around the globe: furniture, decorative objects, cutting-edge clothing and accessories, beauty products, create the true essence of contemporary urban living and make Graffito a serene cosmopolitan haven for savvy shoppers.

Map I12 Panepistimio, 34 Solonos Str., Kolonaki, +302103608936, graffito.gr

Greek Designers DeuxHommes

The studio and showroom of Grigoris Triantafyllou and Dimitris Alexakis is the hottest

*

SUMMER 2019 _ 25

Basic Tips Sales

The official sales periods are midJanuary to mid-February and mid-July until the end of August.

Where to shop

Downtown is the place to be, whether you are looking for brand names or small vintage shops and second-hand stores. Plaka, the foremost tourist area, is the standard place to buy memorabilia. Nearby, Monastiraki is home to a famous Athenian flea market.

Visitors will lose themselves in a huge variety of shops that appeal to aficionados of records, jewellery, clothes, shoes and all things vintage. This is an area in which haggling is accepted by the playful and friendly shop owners.

Between Monastiraki sq. and Omonia sq., one comes across the Athens Central Market, a good place to buy some local herbs. Ermou street is by far the most celebrated shopping street: a pedestrian street with large windows and a great variety of goodies, from clothes and jewellery to shoes and gifts. But when it comes to expensive brand shopping, Kolonaki is the perfect place to be.

Luxury clothing, high prices and impeccably dressed customers are the norm here.

Keep in mind

● Pay a visit to the New Benaki Museum

(Pireos 138); its Greek handmade jewellery is a delight. ● Buy a small figurine in the gift shop of the Cycladic Art Museum (Vasilissis Sofias & 1 Irodotou str.). ● Clothes and accessories by Ioanna Kourbela and Zeus + Dione rate among the most elegant examples of Greek design. ● Try to do your shopping in the morning. ● You will come across all the major international brands on Voukourestiou str. ● Shopping centres Attica (9 Panepistimiou str., Athens city centre) and Golden Hall (37A Kifissias Avenue, Maroussi) sport the widest variety of shops ● If you have time to kill, have a look at the interesting markets of Kifissia (northern suburbs) and Glyfada (southern suburbs).

26 _ SUMMER 2019

place to find a limited prêt-àporter and the current collection of the unbeatable duo.

Map J13 Panepistimio, 18 Kanari Str., Kolonaki, +302103614155, deuxhommes.gr

Kimalé

An innovative fashion brand that celebrates the “joie de vivre” of the global riviera. Established by Irène Mamfredos, a French designer, Kimalé merges bold African fabrics with clean and contemporary silhouettes.

Limited edition clothes, jewelry and home accessories which playfully navigate between the colorful palette of African culture and the minimal side of contemporary fashion. Every item is made with love and craftsmanship in downtown Athens. Map F11 Panepistimio 21 Mavromihali Str., Exarheia, Athens, +306983908096, www.kimale.co

Parthenis

Orsalia Parthenis creates timeless fashion with a genderbending, minimal feel and elegant Greek aesthetic.

Premium basics in high quality fabrics, interspersed with statement pieces, create wardrobe staples for a refined and elevated everyday look. This Summer, the iconic Greek fashion house meets the dynamic lines of David Downton, one of the world’s leading fashion artists.

The collection features beachwear and pieces that reflect the common passion for timeless sophistication and a super modern look.

Map I13 Panepistimio 20 Dimokritou & Tsakalof Str., Kolonaki, +302103633158, orsalia-parthenis.gr

Sophie Deloudi

Sophie Deloudi’s collections reflect her values and principles on design and fashion: high quality, perfect lining, impeccable fitting, flawless finishing, clean shapes and str.ong discrete femininity. Elaborated, edged silhouettes and insinuated sensuousness integrate the pieces destined to dress confident and elegant women on their way to the beach. Its eras’ aura combines classic design heritage of the past with a synchronous point of view.

Map J11 Attica City Link, 9 Panepistimiou Str., Athens, +302111802600, sophiedeloudi.gr

Yiorgos Eleftheriades Space (Flagship store)

Yiorgos Eleftheriades constructs in a mesmerizing way intellectual sartorial creations in graceful silhouettes whose dynamic nature consistently maintain balance together with fluidity.

For many years, he has been cooperating with some of the most important directors and actors/actresses in Greece. The brand’s collections have been showcased in Athens, Milan, Paris and Barcelona.

Map I14 Evangelismos, 29 Tsakalof and Voukourestiou Str.s, Kolonaki, +302103616272, yiorgoseleftheriades.gr

Zeus + Δione

This is the Greek Maison Hermes.

Exeptionally tasteful clothes and accessories based on refined craftsmanship. Leather sandals, handbags and gold jewellery in wonderful designs made with high quality exclusivelly Greek materials. If you’re going to take home one quality souvenir from Athens, then go for this brand.

Attica - Golden Hall: 37A Kifissias Av, +302111814000.

Map I15 Bettina: 29 Anagnostopoulou Str., Kolonaki, +302103392094

Greek Design i-D concept store

A bright world of items unfolds in front of those who love style and modern aesthetics. Amazing jewelry, created by the most famous Greek and foreign designers, but also costume jewelry (these pieces that spice up your everyday outfits). Don’t miss out on the bags: the big collection includes avantgarde designs and more casual suggestions for every taste.

Map J13 Evangelismos, 12 Kanari Str., Kolonaki, +302103221801

Grecian Chic

Bold graphic style in bright colors and designs that transmit Greek culture, all in wonderful silk scarves by Elena Zournatzi and her brand, Grecian Chic.

Find them in ZinaFragi boutique.

33 Agg. Metaxa Str., Glyfada, +302108985039

Lemisios Shoes

Lemisios is a lovely store that opened in the heart of Athens in 1912. Here, you can have the shoes of yours dreams thanks to

*

SUMMER 2019 _ 27

their custom-made orders. You will also find high quality leather sandals and ballet flats better than Repettos! Lemisios shoes are not only exceptional, but a real fashion statement.

Map I12 Panepistimio 6 Likavittou Str., Athens, +302103611161, fb: lemisios shoes Since 1912

Savapile

A family-owned company manufacturing beautiful, fisherman’s wicker hats, that began in 1960. These hats, typical of the Greek summer, are hand-made in many different shapes. The most famous of these is the naval cap, known as the “Zorba cap”. And the most impressive, the huge, sexy str.aw hat that works more like a parasol.

Map J7 Monastiraki 14 Agias Eleoussis Str., Psyrri, +302103217087, @savapile

Liana Vourakis

Fanourakis Greek designer

LinaFanouraki’sjewellery is ultimately Greek spirited but does not resemble at all the traditional ancient, like necklaces and wreaths. Using the prime materials of high-end goldsmithery, her work is modern and humorous but always classy.

Map J15 Evangelismos, 23 Patriarchou Ioakim Str., Kolonaki, +302107211762

Ileana Makri Store

Jewellery

Ileana Makri is a well-known Greek jewelry designer. Her fine designs are inspired by a multitude of symbols that exist in popular Greek culture and their meanings, such as the beads that protect of the “evil eye”, the monks’ worry beads, iridescent beetles and bugs of the Greek nature, the sea urchin and more.

Map J16 Evangelismos, 13-15 Patriarchou Ioakeim Str., +302107217982, ileanamakri.com

Bvlgari

Kessaris

A “B.zero1” ring or an “Assioma” watch are the must-have items, if you want to invest in Bulgari.

Map I 13 Panepistimio, 8 Voukourestiou Str., Kolonaki (Watches), +302103711011/ 7 Panepistimiou Str., Kolonaki, +302111802600, bulgari.com

Cartier

You don’t have to be extra loaded to own a Cartier. This is where you can find the young collection “Entrelaces”, whose rings don’t cost much, as well as the ultimate “Love” bracelets and rock “Marcello” bags.

Map I13 Panepistimio, City Link, 7 Voukourestiou Str., Kolonaki, +302103313600, cartier.com

Diamonds and blues… Those aren’t icebergs – they’re diamond rings!

Salesmen can be quite snobbish, but the quality is great. You’ll know the owner by his red glasses.

Map I13 Panepistimio, 5 & 7 Panepistimiou Str., +302103711010, kessaris.gr

Lalaounis

The heart of the internationally recognisedjewellery house is located in Kolonaki. As IliasLalaounis says, “every jewel has its own history”, whether it begins in Mycenae or in Byzantium. We’ve seen CharlizeTheron wearing them.

Map I13 Panepistimio, 6 Panepistimiou & Voukourestiou Str., +302103611371, iliaslalaounis.eu/portfolio

A big shopping network with 100% legal cannabis products.

Face and body oils and creams with CBD extracts. www.cnbstores.com, www.cannabistores.gr, +302103242837

28 _ SUMMER 2019

© THANASIS KARATZAS

Cannabi Stores

Liana continues to honour the founding principles of her grandfather. Her collections combine fantasy and imagination along with a certain sense of nostalgia.

Map I14 Evangelismos, City-Link, Stoa Spiromiliou, Voukourestiou Str., +302103311107, info@vourakisliana.gr

Lito - Cabinet de Curiosités

Jewels that tell stories from long travel. Thailand, Arizona, India and Egypt. A small private museum full of treasures with the LitoKarakostanoglou signature who transforms anything old into a modern rock suggestion.

Map J15 Panepistimio, 25 Irodotou Str., Kolonaki, +302107295177

Marianna Petridi

Beloved artistic jewellery gallery with a permanent showroom for Greek and foreign designers.

Map I15 Evangelismos, 34 Charitos Str., Kolonaki, +302107217789

Swatch

Code: colour. The must-have Swiss watch, you can’t stop at one. Map J15 Panepistimio, 12 Patriarchou Ioakim Str., Kolonaki, +302107239708, swatch.com/gr_el/home.html

Shopping Centres Attica

360 shops in a shop. Upmarket department store, the biggest in the city. A comprehensive selection of designer wear (Armani, Burberry, Juicy Couture, Missoni, etc.), casual brands, accessories, exclusive Joe Malone and Molton Brown distr.ibutor. A great view from the 6th floor café, and full beauty treatment on the 4th floor.

Map I13 Panepistimio, 9 Panepistimiou Str., Sintagma, +302111802500, atticadps.gr

Golden Hall

Luxurious shopping centre with expensive brands, clothes, accessories, jewelry, sportswear, cosmetics, art objects, Doudesis hair salon, Mastic Spa for special beauty treatment and more. Be warned: it gets extremely crowded on a Saturday.

37AKifisias Av, Marousi, +302106803450, goldenhall.gr

Opening

Hours!

Except for the tourist hotspots, like Plaka, most shops are closed on Sundays and National Holidays, with the exception of flower shops, patisseries, liquor stores and the like.

Official business opening hours are When 09:00-21:00 on weekdays (09:00-20:00 you’re out and about in on Sat). However, many smaller businesses Athens, upload your keep the older working hours favourite moments on (closed after 15:00 on Mon, Wed, instagram using the Sat and between 14:30 and hashtag 17:30 on Tue, Thu, Fri). #lookmag

and energize. Discover the “natural pharmacy” where the specialists can help you create your own personal cosmetics and of course, the BEEHIVE SPA, a real beehive spa sanctuary! The spa cabins are made of real wooden bee hive parts and the ceiling is made of honey tinted crystal elements that literally immerse the visitor in the bee world.

Map H12 Panepistimio, 26 Solonos Str., Kolonaki, +302103640560

Hair Salons D. Frank

Hondos Center

It can provide you with everything you need, for your season shopping or just for a tiny elegant gift. Or go straight to the roof garden, for tasty traditional Greek cuisine, and the most beautiful view.

Map F8 Omonia, 4 Omonia Sq, +302105282800, hondoscenter.com

Notos Galleries

A standard department store primarily selling clothes and satisfying most of the consumption needs of the modern Athenian. Clothes, shoes, underwear, accessories, sportswear, toys.

Map G8 Omonia, 99 Eolou & Lykourgou Str., +302103245811, notosgalleries.gr

Shopping Spree at McArthurGlen

A mega store filled with popular brand names in clothing, shoes, accessories and household goods with 35 to 70% discount. +302106630840, more information on mcarthurglenathens.com

The brand’s collaboration with Korres has developed exceptional products such as the mastic conditioner with mastic oil and provitamins.

Map I13 Panepistimio, 6 Panepistimiou & Kriezotou Str.s, +302103632750

Sephora

All the latest fragrances, plus all the alternative collections that set global trends: Make up for ever, Sephora Products, Strivectin, OPI. Map K10 Syntagma, 24 Ermou Str., Syntagma, +30 2103313167/ 2 Milioni Str., Kolonaki, +302103613051/ The Mall Athens, Marousi, +302106300125

The APIVITA Experience Store

A renovated neo-classical building designed to offer a unique and holistic experience, this is Athens’s top destination for natural cosmetics, SPA treatments, “green” hair salon and organic juice bar to refresh

Hair cuts, coiffures, flashes, colours, everything a classical hair salon offers, as well as lots of surprises. Fragiskos is still the top Scissorhands.

Map I14 Evangelismos, 50 Sina & Anagnostopoulou Str., Kolonaki, +302103603297

Georgios Doudessis GeorgiosDoudesis’ professionalism and modern aesthetics changed the world view of Athenian hair salons forever. Map I13 Evangelismos, 39 Voukourestiou Str., Kolonaki, +302103629970, doudesis.com

Vangelis Hatzis

The best hairdresser in town. He will give you the style and haircut you didn't know you wanted but absolutely needed. The most luxurious service. Slightly specialised in natural-looking blonde colours. But don’t even think of turning up without an appointment.

196 Kifissias Av, Psichiko, +302106747011, vangelishatzis.gr

The Mall Athens

200 shops within a shop, the Village cinema complex, restaurants and cafés and a super market, all wrapped up in a futuristic design with a roof garden offering an amazing view.

35 Andrea Papandreou Str., Maroussi, +302106300000-003, themallathens.gr

Beauty- Care Cosmetics Mastiha Shop

Minas

The ultimate rock designer. Vintage all-time classic jewels, the first choice among the trendy youth.

8 Emanouil Benaki Str., Kifissia, +302106233577, minastudio.com

Mastic is a unique natural product that can be found only on the Greek island of Chios.

SUMMER 2019 _ 29

INTERNATIONAL

Anavasi

An exquisite travel bookstore offering a plethora of maps and travel guides to anyone wishing to find their way around hiking and joining activities in Greece.

Map K10 Syntagma, 32 Voulis Str., Syntagma, +302103218104

Best Book Hunters

This bookstore is ideal for booklovers who wish to purchase used books, but also explore the cornucopia of book collections the store has in stock.

Map E12 Panepistimio, 41A Zoodohou Pigis Str., Exarchia, +302103603473

Deutsche Buchhandlung

Ideal for those loving German literature, the store also provides plenty of board games for children. Map I10 Panepistimio, 4 Omirou & 10 Stadiou Str., Gallery Lemos, +302103225294, +302103257820

Ianos

Not only does this store provide

s e r o t s k Boo

a variety of books for literature and art lovers, but it also organizes cultural events within the store, and includes a small, cozy café. Map I10 Panepistimio, 24 Stadiou Str., Panepistimio, +302103217917

International Press

By far the largest store with international press in Athens, offering many publications while also providing books.

Map F9 Omonia, 73 Panepistimiou Str., Omonia, +302103210989

Le Livre Ouvert

It mostly offers French literature, but it also includes a large section of international titles.

Map G11 Panepistimio, 77 Solonos Str., Kolonaki, +302103629703

Politeia

Vast bookstore offering a huge variety of titles and authors whilst having helpful and wellinformed staff, as well as relatively low prices.

Map G11 Panepistimio, 1-3 Asklipiou Str., Panepistimio, +302103600235

Public

A large department store in which one can explore his/her choices, as it provides books under most sciences and interests, including Economics, Psychology, and fashion.

Map K10 Syntagma, 1 Karagiorgi Servias Str., Syntagma, +302103246210

Travel Bookstore

This excellent travel bookshop belongs to the top Greek cartography companies ORAMA and ROAD Editions (NAKAS GROUP of companies’ members), which are our map suppliers. Huge variety of top quality maps and travel guides covering every last corner of the country, as well as international maps and travel guides series. If you mention you’re a reader of this guide, the bookshop’s experienced staff will happily give you an extra discount. Map G12 Panepistimio, 71 Solonos Str., Kolonaki, +302103616943, travelbookstore.gr

e ic o V e h t o t n Liste

of Athens

on Radio 102,5 FM

ICE .gr on line W W W.ATHENSVO

SUMMER 2019 _ 31

Photo: Hotel Ammon Zeus

Hotels n hospitable 500 hotels er d o m a s, n e th A to Welcom e al with nearly E uropean capit

From 5* to youth hostels, there is accommodation for all budgets and tastes

By Regina Filoglou

A

thens is much more than a quick stop on the way to the islands. The stylish, luxurious city hotels attract thousands of tourists who wish to explore the capital and its unique beauty. With breathtaking view at Acropolis or just a few steps away from the city's nightlife, you can find everything you were dreaming of.

★★★★★ Athenaeum Intercontinental

Athens City Centre Map Q8, Syggrou-Fix, 89-93 Syggrou, +302109206000, ichotelsgroup.com

Athens Hilton

Athens City Centre Map K19 Evangelismos, 46 Vasilissis Sofias, +302107281000, hiltonathens.gr

Crowne Plaza

Athens City Centre Map J21 Megaro Moussikis, 50 Mihalakopoulou, +302107278000, cpathens.com

Electra Metropolis

Grand Resort Lagonissi

Radisson Blue Park Hotel

Grande Bretagne

Royal Olympic

Lagonissi 40th Km Athinon-Souniou, +302291076000, lagonissiresort.gr Athens City Centre Map K11 Syntagma, Syntagma sq., +302103330000, grandebretagne.gr

King George II

Athens City Centre Map K11 Syntagma, Syntagma sq., +302103222210, classicalhotels.com

Melia Athens

Athens City Centre Map E9 Omonia, 14 Chalkokondili str., +302103320100, melia-athens.com

Athens City Centre Map K8 Syntagma, 15 Mitropoleos +302141006200 electrahotels.gr

Metropolitan

Electra Palace

New Hotel

Athens City Centre Map L10 Syntagma, 18 Navarchou Nikodimou, +302103370000, electrahotels.gr

Four Seasons

Vouliagmeni Apollonos 40, +3021 08901000, astir. gr/four-seasons-astir-palace 32 _ SUMMER 2019

Athens City Centre 385 Syggrou str., +302109471000, chandris.gr

Athens City Centre Map A11, Victoria, 10 Alexandras str., +302108894500, athensparkhotel.gr Athens City Centre Map IP8 Akropoli, 28-34 Athanasiou Diakou str., +302109288400, royalolympic.com

Saint George Lycabettus

Athens City Centre Map I15, 2 Kleomenous str., +302107416000, sglycabettus.gr

Semiramis

Kifissia Kifissia, 48 Charilaou Trikoupi str., +302106284400, semiramis.athenshotels.it

★★★★ Alexandros

Athens City Centre Map L11 Syntagma, 16 Filelinon, +302103273000, newhotel.athenshotels.it

Athens City Centre Map F22 Megaro Moussikis, 8 Timoleontos Vassou str., Ampelokipi, +302106430464, airotel.gr

N.J.V. Athens Plaza

Amalia

Athens City Centre Map K11 Syntagma, 2 Vassileos Georgiou str., +302103352400, njvathensplaza.gr

Athens City Centre Map L11 Omonia, 10 Amalias str., +302103237301-9, amalia.gr

Art Hotel Athens

Athens City Centre Map D8 Omonia, 27 Marni str., +302105240501, arthotelathens.gr

Athens Atrium

Athens City Centre N. Kosmos, 21 Okeanidon str., +302109319300-4, athensatrium.gr

Athens Lotus

Athens City Centre Map D5 Metaxourghio, 9 Chiou str., +302105249050, athenslotushotel.gr

AVA Hotel & Suites

Athens City Centre Map N9 Akropoli, 9-11 Lisikratous str., +302103259000, avahotel.gr

Electra Hotel

Athens City Centre Map K10 Syntagma, 5 Ermou str., +302103378000, electrahotels.gr

Fresh Hotel

Athens City Centre Map H7 Omonia, 26 Sofokleous & 2 Klisthenous str., +302105248511-6, freshhotel.gr

Golden Age

Athens City Centre Map I21 Megaro Moussikis, 57

Michalakopoulou str., +302107240861-9, goldenage.gr

Herodion

Athens City Centre Map P7 Akropoli, 4 Rovertou Gali, +302109236832-6, herodion.gr

Holiday Suites Hotel

Athens City Centre Map I21 Megaro Moussikis, 4 Arnis str., +302107278690, holiday-suites.com

Ilissia

Athens City Centre Map K19 Evangelismos / Megaro Moussikis, 25 Mihalakopoulou str., +302107244051-6, ilisiahotel.gr

Novotel Athenes

Athens City Centre Map C7 Larissa Station, 4-6 Michail Voda str., +302108200700, novotelathens.gr

Periscope

Athens City Centre Map I5 Evangelismos, 22 Haritos str., +302107297200, yeshotels.gr

StratosVassilikos

Athens City Centre Map G23 Megaro Moussikis, 114 Mihalakopoulou str., +302107706611, airotel.gr

The Athenian Callirhoe

Athens City Centre Map Q8 Syggrou-Fix, 32 Kallirois & Petmeza str., +302109215353, tac.gr

The Foundry Hotel

Athens City Centre Map I5 Thisseio, Sarri 40, Psirri, 2111824604, www.thefoundryhotelathens.com

The Grand Hayatt

Acropolis Select

Athens City Centre Map Q7, Syggrou-Fix, 37-39 Falirou str., +302109211610, acropoliselect.gr

Adrian Hotel

Athens City Centre Map L8 Syntagma, 74 Adrianou str., +302103221553, douros-hotels.com

Arethusa Hotel

Athens City Centre Leof. Siggrou 115, 2144021234, www.hyatt.com

Athens City Centre Map K10 Syntagma, 6-8 Mitropoleos & 12 Nikis str., +302103229431-8, arethusahotel.gr

Titania

Arion Athens Hotel

Athens City Centre Map G9 Omonia, 52 Panepistimiou str., +302103326000, titania.gr

Zafolia

Athens City Centre Map B17, 87-89 Alexandras str. +302106449002, zafoliahotel.gr

★★★ Achilleas

Athens City Centre Map J10 Syntagma, 21 Leka str., Syntagma, +302103233197, achilleashotel.gr

Athens City Centre Map I7 Monastiraki, Omonia, 18 Agiou Dimitriou str., +302103240415, arionhotel.gr

Athens Center Square Monastiraki Map H7 Syntagma, 15 Aristogitonos str., +302103211770, athenscentersquarehotel.gr

Attalos

Monastiraki Map K10 Syntagma, 29 Athinas str., +302103212801-2-3, attaloshotel.com

Pan

Athens City Centre Map K10 Syntagma, 11 Mitropoleos str.,

+302103237816, panhotel.gr

Philippos Hotel

Athens City Centre Map P7 Akropoli, 3 Mitseon str., Makrigianni, +302109223611, philipposhotel.gr

Poseidon Hotel

Palaio Faliro 72 Poseidonos Ave., +302109872000, poseidonhotel.com.grt

Hostels

Athens Backpackers

Athens City Centre Map P9 Akropoli, 12 Makri str., +302109224044, backpackers.gr

AthenStyle

Athens City Centre Map J7 Monastiraki, 10 Agias Theklas str., +302103225010, athenstyle.com

Dioskouros

Athens City Centre Map N10 Akropoli, Syntagma, 6 Pitakou str., +302103248165, hoteldioskouros.com

The Student and Travellers Inn

Athens City Centre Map M9 Akropoli / Syntagma, Kidathineon 16 str., +302103244808-2, studenttravellersinn.com ●

SUMMER 2019 _ 33

*

€_up to 15 €€_15-25 €€€_25-35 €€€€_35+

Restaurants foodies

r o f e s i d a r a p A thens, a

and a When yo your bout in A u’re out insta favourit thens, up e g lo #ath ram usin moments ad g th en on and lesvoice #t e hashta astev g t the o ice a glim world t a p k s Athe e of the e nian life!

With a lavish seasonal produce, an abundance of fundamental superfood ingredients, a rich food heritage handed down from generation to generation and the aura of the Mediterranean, Greece’s cuisine stars in the global culinary universe. The restaurants and small taverns spread around the city of Athens have generated a vibrant dine-out urban culture that proudly demonstrates a fascinating fusion of traditional and high-end Greek flavors, staple international cuisines, wine bars and inspiring street food that hold an exciting palate challenge for foodies.

By NENELA GEORGELE, KATERINA VNATSIOU

34 _ SUMMER 2019

SUMMER 2019 _ 35

MICHELIN

Michelin stars for excellence are awarded to selected restaurants and Athens could not miss its share in top quality establishments.

Spondi With two Michelin stars, Spondi is considered the absolute best restaurant in Greece. French cuisine by chef Angelos Landos, luxurious environment and service which makes you feel like a king. Map Q15, 5 Pirronos str., Pagrati, +302107564021

Botrini’s Minimal environment in a beautiful old house with a cozy garden, and an excellent menu by famous chef Ectoras Botrini. Good value for money.

24b Vas. Georgiou B str., Chalandri, +302106857324

Hytra Reach the 6xth floor of the

Onassis Cultural Center, and you will find yourself in Hytra, where you can enjoy the great view along with great food.

Mainly Greek cuisine by chef Tasos Mantis. Offers a degustation menu and many choices for different budgets.

Syggrou- Fix, 107-109 Syggrou Avenue, +302103316767

Varoulko Seaside Lefteris Lazarou is the first Greek chef to acquire a Michelin star. He is one of the country’s most renewed chefs, with a loyal audience and a unique knowledge of seafood. In Varoulko, modern Greek cuisine meets the international gastronomy in an excellent venue with huge windows and a breathtaking view of the sea which lies in a 2 meters distance.

52 Akti Koumoundourou str., Mikrolimano, +302105228400

T

he Bib Gourmand (in recognition of skillful cooking in reasonable prices) was awarded to Athiri (Map H3, 15 Plataion str.

Kerameikos, +302103462983), Nolan (Map L10, 31 Voulis str., Syntagma, +302103243545), Oikeio (Map J17, 15 Ploutarchou str., Kolonaki, +302107259216) and 7 Food Sins (N9, 1 Filomousou Etairias Sq., Plaka, +302107011108) restaurants. Awarded with the Michelin Plate (a newly introduced distinction for restaurants that have neither a star nor a Bib Gourmand award, yet they serve excellent food) are the GB Rood Garden (Map K11, 1a Vas. Georgiou str., Syntagma, +302103330000) and the Electra Roof Garden (Map L10, 18-20 Navarchou Nikodimou str., Plaka, +302103370000) restaurants, the Premiere (Athenaeum Intercontinental: 89-93 Syggrou Av., Neos Kosmos, +302109206000 and Cookoovaya (Map J20, 2 Chatzigianni Mexi str., Hilton, +302107235005) restaurants, also the CTC (Map L21, 27 Diocharous str., Kessariani, +302107228812), the Sushimou (Map L10, 6 Skoufou, Syntagma, +302114078457), the Vezene (Map K20, 11 Vrasida str., Hilton, +302107232002), the Sense (5 Dionissiou Aeropagitou str., Akropoli, +302109200240), 2 Mazi (Map M10, 48 Nikis str., Plaka, +302103222839) and Aneton (19 Stratigou Lekka str., Marousi, +302108066700) restaurants.

36 _ SUMMER 2019

Greek Traditional

Extra virgin olive oil, seasonal vegetables, greens and herbs, crispy pies and juicy roasts, fresh fish and seafood are some of the ingredients that have established the Greek cuisine as one of the best in the world. You will find it in tavernas and restaurants throughout the city.

The best compliment a Greek traditional chef can hear: “This reminds me of the way my mother used to make this plate when I was little…”.

Avgo tou Kokora

Pinned on the Athenian map of gastronomy for almost two decades it has rightfully claimed the hearts of authentic taste aficionados, many of whom represent the city’s artistically inspired crowd. Let your senses revel in what Greek traditional cuisine really tastes like.

From 1:00 at noon till 1:00 after midnight. Map G4 Metaxourgeio, 25 Myl-

lerou str., Metaxourgeio, +302177050103

Dexameni

One of the most historical “kafeneia” of Athens, open from 10:00 till very late, for coffee, meze, Cretan raki and delicious homemade halva with ice-cream. Map I15

Evangelismos, Dexamenis Square, Kolonaki, +302107214368 €

Economou

Traditional tavern in a former working class neihbourhoud which is now a hip area crowded by young artists. Excellent house wine and high quality Greek cuisine. Closed Sun. Map O1, 41 Petralona Troon & Kidanti-

don str., +302103467555 €

Filippou

This historic restaurant will serve you “mama’s” food in very good prices. Closed Sat evening and Sun (also 8-23/8). Map I15 Evangelismos, 19

Klimataria

One of the oldest tavernas in Athens, a culinary landmark in the city center and in close distance to the central market place, Klimataria is hosted in a very old little house with an inner yard adorned with vast greenery and flowers and a lovely decoration. You’ll enjoy delicious greek traditional flavours, while the long menu includes all the classic and homecooked style recipes: a great variety of fresh salads, soups, pies, legumes, lamb fricassee and its “signature” dish, pot-roasted lamb with potatoes.

Pretty much a local's restaurant with a wonderful, homey ambiance, some evenings accompanied by the live tunes of Greek bouzouki. Good price list, friendly service. Map H6, 2, Theatrou

sq, +302103216629

Kyveli

Keeping its retro “profile” that blends perfectly with the all so retro neighborhood, Kyvelli is popular among the locals. Happy interior adorned with old photographs and advertising posters of past decades.

The menu, a refreshing culinary experience, includes salads, appetizers and delicious “meze”.

Monday closed. 15 Eptanisou str., Kypseli, +302108219406

Platanos

Under the shade of the big old plane tree that also gave its name to the place, Platanos prepares the tables out in the summer evening dew and creates what is widely known as the hospitable Greek way of life. Great variety of “mezes” for starters and delicious firsts with meat or fish, all created with extra care and respect to traditional recipes, accompanied by good wine, ouzo, or tsipouro. In the morning hours it serves coffee.

Open daily. 43 Agias Zonis str., Kypseli,

+302108612749

Saligaros

Though hidden in the narrow streets of Exarheia, it is always packed with fresh, smiley faces. You'll be given cretan raki to start with and wash your palate clean and ready to taste the inspired dishes of young chef patron Rigas Rigopoulos, a Cretan by origin, who creates Home of the world famous Nobu his recipes using traditional cuisine, Matsuhisa meets the cretan products and highest standards for sushi.

Highlights: black cod, nice cocktails, ingredients. Rabbit, roasts fantastic location with tomato sauce, spaghetti, on the sea front. salads with wild greens and Astir Palace Hotel, 40 Apollonos str., aromatic herbs. The atmosphere Vouliagmeni, +302108960510 turns festive in no time. Map D10,

Xenokratous str., Kolonaki, +302107216390 €€

ATHENS HAS ITS OWN Matsuhisa

€€€€

37 Solomou str., Exarheia, +302130226262

*

SUMMER 2019 _ 37

restaurants which have a shopping section within Have you ever been so excited by some dishes at a Greek Restaurant that you wished you could buy the ingredients and cook the dish at home? Now your wish can come true! Jams and delicious cold meats, cheeses from all over Greece, handmade pasta, nuts, honey, wines and spirits, all of which you can enjoy in the street as a snack, in your hotel, as a lunch or as a memorial when you go back home.

Ta karamanlidika tou Fani The ideal place to taste

tradition “meze” from all over Greece.

Their products are excellent, you can dine in and/or buy some of their products. In the centre of the premises is a glass display with dozens of cold meats, cheeses, sausages and spicy sausages (soujouki), for you to choose from. Map H7 Omonia, 1 Sokratous & Εvripidou str.,

+302103254184, Mon-Sat: 12:00-23:00 (sales: 08:0021:00) New: 119 Ermou str., Monastiraki, +302103219119

Ergon One of the most popular and successful chain of restaurants not only in Greece but also in London, Brussels, Miami. Here, the first foodie hotel in Athens. Ιt serves quality food but you can buy Greek products: olive oil, olives, honey, jams, pasta, sauces, syrups, herbs. Map K8 Syntagma, 123 Mitropoleos str., +302100109090, 12 pm-12 am (store hours 09.00-01.00)

Yoleni’s With thousands of

quality products from small producers from all around the region it’s an ambassador of Greek traditional flavors! The six-story building includes the coffee corner, with rare coffee varieties, pites and sandwiches, the restaurant with great meat options, Greek tavern, an olive oil bar, a cellar with fine Greek wine labels and a room for cooking classes. Map J13 9 Solonos str.,

Syntagma, Kolonaki, +302122223623

O Bakalis (The Grocer) Cheeses from Naxos &

Crete, unprocessed matured sausages, excellent quality salt cured products, pulses from Thessalia, dozens of pasta (from Zea wheat), jams made from citrus fruit. Try them on the spot, cooked deliciously – around 40 dishes accompanied with traditional Greek drinks! 19 Kalamakiou & Thoukididou str., Alimos,

+302109820040 38 _ SUMMER 2019

MY PARK

To Omorfo

Just a few steps away from Greek traditional Evangelismos metro station lies a lush cuisine. Located at forest of blooming flowers and trees with the most quite road curly branches soaked in the summer aromas; of the cosmopolitan your relaxing escape from the city’s gray mood. shopping area of Ii is the perfect spot for a coffee break or as well an Kolonaki, a bit afternoon romance with refreshing cocktails or a further from glass of wine from the long wine list. The sun sets Lycabettous Hill. whetting your appetite for something extraordinary.

At Omorfo feels Chef Kostas Nasiopoulos utilizes unique raw like eating at materials to create dishes of fusion urban cuisine home, you will most elegant and tasteful. Open for brunch taste homemade everyday 10:00-18:00; the restaurant opens plates, all made from 19:00-01:00. Map H21 Megaro Moussikis, Vas. high quality products.

Sofias & Evzonon str., Parko Eleftherias, +302107233419, Everyone knows about it www.my-park.gr as it has a long history, since 1980. Everyday has a new menu but don’t miss out their specialties, some of them are: veal with zucchini in egg and lemon sauce, pastitsio, Athiri and stuffed tomatoes. Big portions, Award-winning chef Alexis Kardasis, reasonable prices and gentle care. creative cuisine, magnificent dishes.

Mon.Closed. Map H3 Kerameikos, 15 PlaMap H18, Syntagma, Open everyday and on

Sun 12:30 - 00.00 + Delivery, 50 Xenokratous str., Kolonaki, +302107226830 €

Vlassis

Plain, simple space with an “intellectual” touch, but its passion for original Greek food remains intact. Splendid cooked dishes, even better grilled & fried seafood. Closed Sun (also 8-23/8). Map J22, Megaro, 15

teon str., Kerameikos, +302103462983 €€€

Cookoovaya

Five excellent chefs (N. Karathanos, P. Koskinas, V. Liakos, S. Liakos, K. Zournatzis) have taken over the cuisine of this restaurant, making the whole city curious to try their dishes. Closed 10-17/8. Map J20

Meandrou str., Ilissia, +302107256335 €€

Megaro, 2a Xatzigianni Mexi str., Ilissia, +302107235005 €€€

Greek Creative

Dionysos

Greeks love their traditional homemade cuisine and renowned Greek chefs love to experiment with its recipes.

What they come up with is some of the country’s most representative dishes served up “with a twist”. The finest restaurants of the Greek creative cuisine are...

43 Rovertou Gali str., Makrigianni, +302109233182 €€€€

Aleria

Α yard that resembles the french countryside. Two level building, elegant decoration, one of the best menus in Greek creative cuisine, chef Gikas Xenakis. You can also relax and have a drink. Closed Sun.

Map G3 Metaxourgio, 57 Meg. Alexandrou str., +302105222633 €€€

Enjoy magnificent Mediterranean cuisine in this emblematic restaurant of Athens facing the Acropolis. Beautiful garden and posh customers. Map O7 Akropoli,

To Mavro Provato (Black Sheep)

One the city’s most loved restaurants, it fills quickly daily with Athenian crowds, actresses, screenwriters, artists and celebrities. Very good modern Greek cuisine, emphasis is placed on quality ingredients, traditional dishes with a modern touch, a relaxed and intimate atmosphere.

Tables inside and outside on the pavement, make sure to book. Daily

Avgotaraho (Grey Mullet Bottarga)

A delicacy of cured Grey Mullet Roe. Natural without preservatives, with high nutritional value and a pleasant, long-lasting aftertaste.

It can be consumed in small slices as an appetizer, with freshly baked bread or with pasta.

*

SUMMER 2019 _ 39

Eat healthy in Athens Gluten free, vegeterian, vegan, raw: there is an answer to every question!

Yi The first raw-eating restaurant in

They use bio products. Map F10

Greece: nothing is cooked over 46ºC. Yi is a multipurpose venue with huge windows, large wooden tables, floral seats and high quality food. Salads, pizzas and excellent sweets: the choice is yours. 69 Grigoriou Labraki str.,

Panepistimio, 84 Akadimias str., +302114114420

Glyfada, +302109648512

To Bazaki Huge variety of cold pressed juices. The juices are served in fancy jars (the word bazaki means little jar in Greek). They serve delicious soups and sandwiches as well as detox deals. The garden is super cozy! Chalandri, 33 Aristotelous str., +302106800067

Mama Tierra Open kitchen, relaxing tables, excellent trip advisor reviews. Excellent value for money.

from noon, Sunday serving only midday. Map N17 Evangelismos, 33

Arrianou str., Pagrati, +302107223466 €€

Vasilainas

This historic 100-year-old restaurant has catered for an allstar list of visitors who have passed through Greece – from Sofia Loren to Winston Churchill. Now in a new location, behind the emblematic Hilton, in a property that has been magnificently designed by the famous architects A. Kourkoulas M. Kokkinou. Cuisine Greek, creative and unforgettable gastronomic experience, degustation menu and a la carte, wine cellar with the best of Greek and international vineyards.

Reduced rates at noon. Map L20 1

Evangelismos, 3 Vrassida str., (behind the Hilton Hotel), +302107210501 €€€

Mediterranean It

Nice n Easy Probably the only place in Athens with a combination of mostly organic food and calorie counts in the menu. Fresh, local ingredients used. Menu of healthy and delicious choices and sushi. Open for coffee and breakfast at 09:00.

Map H13 Panepistimio, 60 Omirou & Skoufa str., Kolonaki, +302103617201, 7 Papadiamanti str., Kifissia, +302108082014

Avocado Siblings with neighbouring yoga school, it’s a hotspot for vegeterians and healthy eaters. Very high rankings on TripAdvisor. Suitable for lunch or dinner. Map L10 Syntagma, 30 Nikis str.,

+302103237878, avocadoathens.com

Prosopa

Located in one of the oldest and most picturesque areas of downtown Athens – beloved for its delicious Mediterranean dishes.

Enjoy food under the stars. Closed

Live like an Athenian!

Insider’s guide for an authentic Athenian experience

Ariston Legendary cheese and other pies. From 1910.

Ask for a «kourou». Map L10

Syntagma, 10 Voulis str.

Ktistakis Round pastry, similar to churros, “loukoumas”. Served with cinammon and honey. The most traditional can be found here. Map H7 Monastiraki, 59 Sokratous

str.

The “it” place to have a lunch break, the absolute meeting point for the locals. Combines the vibe of a modern restaurant with the casualness of a take away. Healthy and fresh food, natural juices, salads, soups, an alternative option for fast food. Open all day.

Trifylli Old fashioned, authentic small tavern. Small variety of plates, but every single one is worth trying.

Budget friendly. After 8 pm.

Map G12 Panepistimio, 29 Skoufa str., Kolonaki, +302103631827, +302103635773 €€

impress your date with your Athens insights. Tv chef

40 _ SUMMER 2019

Map D21 Ambelokipi, 7 Panathinaikou str.

Uberness your chance to

Vasilis Kallidis opened an avant garde pop up canteenrestaurant located inside the Central Market of Vegetables.

The food it serves can be described as “gourmet street food”. Rentis, Fruit Market, Tue-Fri

12:00-1:00, www.uberness.org.

Paleo Wine resto for connoisseurs! Located in a small street in Pireus, close to the port. 450 etiquettes of wine and some of the most delicious plates in town.

Piraeus, 39 Polideukous str.

Kostas Probably the best souvlaki around! There is always a queue, and it stays open only until 5pm. Map I8 Monastiraki, Aghias Irinis Square

Fancy a Greek meze ?

Ama Lachi Housed in an old school, beautiful yard!

Many greek mezedes (small dishes) to share. Map C12, 69 Kallidromiou str., Exarcheia, +302103845978

Avli Ultra traditional choice, budget-friendly.

Relaxed atmosphere, serves coffee in the morning and all kinds of mezedes during the day. Map Q7 Fix, 4 G.Olympiou str.,

Koukaki, +302114051412

Cherchez La Femme In the commercial streets of the City center, a must is Greek morning coffee traditionally brewed on embers (offered together with famous louloumakia from the island of Syros), homemade mandarin drinks, lemonades and cinnamon drinks. Then delicious Greek appetizers that you can accompany with good Greek spirits or good Greek wines from small producers. A must try, are the homemade pastries, all offered at very competitive prices. Map L10

ATHENS HAS ITS OWN Matsuhisa

Home of the world famous Nobu cuisine, Matsuhisa meets the highest standards for sushi.

Highlights: black cod, nice cocktails, fantastic location on the sea front.

Kerameikos, 4 Konstantinoupoleos & 52 Megalou Vassiliou str., Rouf, +302103413433 €€

10-25/8.

The Parliament

The restaurant of the NJV Athens Plaza hotel combines luxury with the simplicity of Mediterranean and Greek flavors. Next to it you will find the Explorer’s Bar, where you can enjoy excellent finger food, until 2 a.m. Map K11 Syntagma, A2 Vassileos

Georgiou str., Syntagma, +302103352400 €€

Vezene

One of the best restaurants in the city, located behind Hilton Hotel. It is always packed with afficionados of nouvelle cuisine. Enjoy the delicacies from Mediterranean and Italian cuisine. Closed Sun.

Map K19 Evangelismos, 11 Vrassida str., Hilton, +302107232002 €€€

Athens from Above Galaxy

One of the most breathtaking views of the city and the Acropolis at the rooftop Galaxy Restaurant of Hilton,

Astir Palace Hotel, 40 Apollonos str., Vouliagmeni, +302108960510 €€€€

Syntagma, 46 Mitropoleos str., +30210222020

Athens.

Authentic Greek and Mediterranean cuisine and highly interesting Asian dishes as well. Delicious cocktails and boutique-brand drinks at the bar, which ranks among the 100 best in the world. The sophisticated décor adds “magic” to the surrounding space as a lit up sky of stars unfolds on the ceiling above you. Map J20

Seychelles Do you like to make friends with the people sitting in other tables in the same restaurant, singing altogether over a plate of delicious Greek food? This place is for you. Map G5

Metaxourgio, 49 Kerameikou str., +30211184789

Evangelismos, Hilton Athens, 46 Vasilissis Sofias Str., +3021072 81402

Dioskouroi A favorite

GB Roof Garden

choice for tourists, near the Ancient Agora. Great view, precious shady spots under the trees. Map L6 Monastiraki, 13

Deluxe art deco interior and impeccable service. An excellent choice after shopping in what can only be branded as Athens’ most chic and historical brasserie. You’ll be sitting next to powerful businessmen, and journalists in search of their next story.

Delectable mediterranean cuisine, amazing view. Map K11 Syntagma,

Grande Bretagne Hotel, Syntagma sq., +302103330000 €€€€

Dioskouron str., Plaka, +302103219607

Kriti Named after the eponymous island (Creta in Greek), it serves authentic cretan cuisine. Map E9 , 5 Veranzerou str. (Kaniggos Square), Omonia, +302103826998

* SUMMER 2019 _ 41

Hytra

One of the most celebrated restaurants of the city and privileged with an astonishing view of Athens, especially when night falls. Highly talented chef Tassos Mantis creates a culinary experience of Michelin starred signature dishes, prepared to a consistently high standard with the distinct flavors of Greek cuisine most imaginative. 107-109 Syggrou Av.,

Neos Kosmos, +302103316767

Mavili Beach

Seven stories above ground, high up on the terrace of Hotel Alexandros in the heart of the vibrant Mavili square, an almost cinematic set unfolds; a beautiful “sandy beach”, literally, you can drop your towel on, and a traditional tavern with the white washed Cycladic aura and authentic “meze”. Map F22 Megaro

Moussikis, 8 Timoleontos Vassou str., Plateia Mavili, 210643 0464

La Suite Lounge

Eating by the Vertigo Pool is cool!

Luxurious decoration, original Greek tastes. Nice view to the city and pleasant soundscape. BBQ on Mondays. Map G16 Evangelismos,

Hotel St. George Lycabettus, 2 Kleomenous str., Dexameni, +302107416000 €€€

Koulouria Delight

Incredibly crunchy on the outside with an amazingly soft and slightly chewy centre.

Koulouria are delicious Greek bread rings covered with toasted sesame seeds. It is the most popular street food one can find in Greece. And with good reason!

When walking the streets of Athens you can’t miss the street vendors selling these popular sesame bread rings. These famous Greek Koulouria are probably the most popular breakfast for Greeks, along with a cup of coffee. You will love them with feta cheese or Graviera and Kalamata olives as a filling snack or cutting them in half crosswise, spreading with butter, honey or jam for breakfast. Simply delicious!

Olive Garden

Fita

On the 11th floor of Though it made its debut a few months ago in central Athens an off Broadway neighborhood of central Titania Hotel, the Athens, it is already a culinary hangout with a Olive Garden devoted young crowd. The menu features alternative rooftop flavors that reflect the unwavering philosophy of its Restaurant chefs-owners towards an inspiring experimentation makes for an with regional fresh products and ingredients. Chill unforgettable out atmosphere, beautiful faces, among which dining experience some of the city’s most celebrated personalities. under the stars and Good prices. 1 Dourm & 6-8 Kassamouli str., Neos Kosmos, with a stunning view +302114148624 of the city. Indulge in an amazing feast of the finest quality local and Mediterranean cuisine, Locali complimented by an exquisite What its name suggests is wine list. Open daily from that you become a local when morning till evening, for your hanging out in places you feel at home. coffee and some mouth Here you are, relaxed in its beautiful patio watering sweet treats, lunch of cultural contrasts, the imposing figures or dinner. Map G9 Omonoia, 52 of the Caryatids on the wall, feasting your senses with imaginative flavors and Panepistimiou str., Athens, signature cocktails, featuring a mix of +302103326000 Greek spirits. Open in the morning.

Penthouse 21

Reaching the 21st floor of the President Hotel and an amazing view of the city unfolds before your eyes. You’ll take a refreshing morning swim in the pool and then a delicious light breakfast. You’ll enjoy your coffee and snacks or a cocktail from a greatly mastered selection according to your mood. The Mediterranean cuisine is excellent featuring timeless classics and delightful desserts. 43 Kifissias str.,

+302106989000

7 (Seven)

Where the classical elements meet the hip atmosphere of a contemporary metropolis, talented chef Damiano Sidirokanellis opts for a spellbinding variety of comfort Mediterranean and Greek flavors with top quality seasonal ingredients and stylish twists.

Beautiful terrace with an enchanting view of the Acropolis, excellent cocktails. Map J6 Monastiraki 119, Ermou

str., Monastiraki, +302103212010

Skyfall

Terrace with unobstructed view of Athens: Acropolis, the Pillars of Olympian Zeus, the city’s bustling avenues. Mediterranean cuisine, finger food, tapas, large wine list and signature cocktails. Map P12, 1 M.

Moussourou str., Mets, +302109210098 €€

The Grand

On the rooftop of Grand Hyatt hotel, rich in sensational views of the city and tables by the pool. Its elegant 42 _ SUMMER 2019

Hip now!

Map I5 Thisseio, 44, Sarri str., Psyrri, +3021 03250673

cuisine fuses the Mediterranean gastronomy with Asian flavors.

Expertly made signature cocktails.

115 Syggrou Av., Fix, 2144021234

The Zillers

This year everybody is talking about The Zillers’ terrace. Lovely setting, outstanding view of the Acropolis, green scenery decoration. Open all day for coffee or drinks, snacks, special dishes and cocktails. Map K8

Syntagma, 54 Mitropoleos str., Syntagma, +302103222277 €€€

Fish Atherina

In a beautiful garden you can enjoy fresh fish at really good prices.

162 Char. Trikoupi str,, Nea Erithraia, +302106200089 €€

Dourabeis

An all-time classic and rightly famous. Fish cuisine of the highest standards. Akti Protopsalti 27, Piraeus,

+302104122092 €€€

Istioploikos

A landmark of Mikrolimano overlooking the Saronic Gulf. In the evening it feels like you are at a beach bar. Modern, Mediterranean cuisine. The café looks like a boat deck. Akti Mikrolimano, Piraeus,

+302104134084 -184, +306944915220 €€€ *

SUMMER 2019 _ 43

breakfast and brunch dishes and later in the day for a lunch break, dinner, some drinks and cocktails listening to great music that gets louder as the night falls. Map H11

Panepistimio, 6 Sina & Vissarionos str., Panepistimio, +302103648077

Zaf

In an alluring neighborhood square that never sleeps you’ll find Zaf. A lively popular place where you can get your morning coffee or brunch, amazing burger dishes and many other beloved treats. A signature list of special cocktails compliments the menu. Regular live performances, dj sets and all-night parties. Map J8

Monastiraki, 8 Platia Agias Irinis, Monastiraki, +302103236711

ALL DAY Bunsis Jimmy and the Fish It stands out among the tourist tavernas of Mikrolimano. Meeting point for a fish lunch on Sun by the yachts and fishing boats. 46 Akti

Koumoundourou str., Mikrolimano, +302104124417 €€€

Milos Estiatorio

Inside the Hilton Hotel, minimal ambience, fish and seafood experts.

Fixed lunch menu at €27. Map K19

Evangelismos, Hilton Hotel, 46 Vasilissis Sofias Av., Kolonaki, +302107244400 €€€€

Thalassinos

Athenians who love fish frequent this cozy place, which serves big or smaller fish in both creative and traditional way s in its lovely yard.

Moschato, 2 Irakleos & Lisikratous str., Moschato, +302109404518 €€

you will find a variety of refreshing signature cocktails and straight drinks mixed by the greatest bartenders in the world. Kifissia: 35

Kolokotroni str., +302106233947-8/ Kolonaki Map K15 Syntagma: 2 Neofytou Vamva str., +302107227721/ Ambelokipi Map D24 Ambelokipi: Kifissias & Alexandras, +302106475417-8/ Glyfada: 43 Lazaraki str., +302108982608-9/ Palio Faliro: Marina Flisvou, Pier One, +302109853281/ Agios Dimitrios The Athens Metro Mall: 276 Vouliagmenis Av., +302109717223/ Asteras Vouliagmenis: 40 Apollonos str., +302108901625 €€

Bar Restaurants Albion

Predominantly Mediterranean cuisine –with emphasis in Italian food– and celebrity clientele. Open noon on Fri, Sat and Sat. 6 Omirou str., N. Psychiko,

AMERICAN WAY

+302106740710 €€€

Big Boy Burger

Balthazar

Mouthwatering burgers served in an atmosphere that resembles America in the 50s and 60s. Also, a great variety of American classics, hot dogs, black Angus steaks, taquitos, milk shakes and fresh-cut fried potatoes served in three different versions, desserts, cocktails and more. 97 Zisimopoulou str., Paleo Faliro,

+302109823273

T.G.I. Friday’s

Give some “flavour” to your evenings with appetizers and cocktails at happy hour prices. At TGI Friday’s 44 _ SUMMER 2019

One of the most beautiful buildings in Athens, it attracts politicians, businessmen, artists, who enjoy their early meals & drinks.

Mediterranean cuisine by top chef Christoforos Peskias and a beautiful garden. Map D21 Ambelokipi, 27 Tsoxa &

Vournazou str., +3022106441215 €€€€

Efimerida ATH

The ambience, the interior, the music and the out-of-the ordinary flavors switch your mornings up a lot. In the morning for a lovely coffee and a selection of “voluptuous”

Hot buns, sweet or salted, filled with beloved and inspired ingredients take the leading role. Freshly squeezed detox juices, smoothies, water scented with herbs, craft beers and good wine also on the menu. Map J8 Monastiraki, 46 Aeolou &

Kolokotroni str., Athens, +302103311616

Nice N Easy

Displaying an elegant chic atmosphere, it has become the hottest meeting point for those strolling around the lively central streets of Kolonaki. The menu features an abundant selection of organic flavors, yummy simple delights, as well as original day dishes of legumes, pasta or meat, burgers and must-try bagels with salmon. Jazz music adds an alluring touch. Map H13, 60 Omirou & Skoufa str.,

Kolonaki, +302103617201

Tsiritri Tsiritro

Like an old children’s song, this place takes you back to those carefree and innocent days of your childhood.

The taste of your mother's cooking is coming back watering your mouth. Try pites, desserts, handmade beverages, raki and the fantastic Jamaica coffee. Open from the early morning hours for on the spot delight or take away. 89A, Veikou

str., Koukaki, +302130122913

French Cuisine L’ Abreuvoir

All time classic French cuisine, elegant and stylish. Enjoy the food in its beautiful garden – along side politicians and VIPs.

*

@athensvoice

@athensvoiceradio

TASTE VOICE @lookmag

@tastevoice

follow us

31 ΙΑΝΟΥΑΡΙΟΥ - 6 ΦΕΒΡΟΥΑΡΙΟΥ 2019 A.V. 45

on instagram SUMMER 2019 _ 45

Map I16 Evangelismos, 51 Xenokratous str., Kolonaki, +302107229106 €€€€

VeriTable

An aura of elegance surrounds this authentic bistronomie that honors the philosophy of the exquisite French gastronomic tradition.

Chef-patron Alain Parodi and his wife Christine will spoil you with lip smacking dishes, French cheeses and cold cuts paired with excellent French wines - on the upper floor rests a collection of 2000 fine wine labels from France mostly, but also from Greece, Italy and Roumania. You’ll find it open on Saturday noons. Closed on Sundays.

8 A. Sikelianou str., Neo Psychiko, +302111829109

Italian Aglio Oglio e peperoncino

Veiled under the imposing volume of the sacred Acropolis rock this beautiful place of minimal chic aesthetics fuses its menu with pure Italian quintessence. Choose among an intriguing variety of Italian antipasti, colorful salads and fresh handmade pasta prepared masterfully in its kitchen and topped with traditional Italian sauces; not to mention the delightful desserts.

Closed on Mondays, only at noon on Sundays.

Map P9 Acropolis, 13 Porinou str., Acropolis, +302109211801

Akakios

The décor elements create a “mystic” atmosphere not typical for a restaurant, rather a monastery, with candles and service dressed as monks. Intriguing. What is more intriguing is its original Greek-style gourmet cuisine. Try the signature dish, pasta with rooster. Also

Pizza Yess

tasteful pizza made with quality Greek ingredients. 1, Agias Triados str.

Paleo Faliro, +302109803100

Cupola

Tastes from Italy with the best Italian chef Stefano Rossi, you will be amazed by his delicious carbonara. Also try authentic Italian pizza! On the list you will find a wide variety of Greek and Italian wines.

Taste delicious cocktails from the most famous bartenders in the city.

Next to Panathenaic Stadium, tables outside. Open from Tue to Sat 19.00-00.30.

On Sun from 13.00-19.00, 13 Ephorionos str., Pagrati, +302114117444 €€

Frankie

Borrowing the name from Frank Sinatra, Frankie stands out on one of the busiest streets of central Athens. Its menu brings the Italian finesse on a plate, with authentic Italian dishes created with regional products that emphasize its farm to table philosophy. Beautiful interior with vintage aesthetics and an open kitchen. Open daily from the morning hours for coffee, brunch or Italian snacks. Also an excellent list of Greek and Italian wine. Map H14, 42

Skoufa str., Kolonaki, +302103647052 €€

Pasteria (La)

Sweet Alchemy

8 Platia str., Agias Irinis, Monastiraki, +302103251444

The pastry chef who has changed the face of confectionary in Greece, Stelios Parliaros, studied art and pastry-making in France.

Author of eight books, since 2008 Dirty Mani Parliaros has hosted the weekly Greek TV show “Sweet Alchemies”.

Just opened and He has rightfully earned the offers tastefull street title of the top Greek food, with excellent Maroussi The Mall Athchef pâtissier. fresh products from ens: +302106198230 KolonaPeloponnesus. Traditional ki +30210 3632032/ Glyfada: pies, souvlaki and open +302108945085/ Kifissia: sandwiches. 5 Dimitrakopoulou str., +302108085607/ Nea Smyrni: +302109319146/ Twelve restaurants all over the city. With a rich wine list and a tempting menu from all over Italy.

Paleo Faliro: +302109858880/ Ambelokipi: +302106401480/ Agia Paraskevi: +302106019975/ Chalandri: +302106854210/ Kato Patissia: +302102236295 €€

Whether you like it thin and School Pizza Bar delicate with crispy puffed-up pillow Located in the most edges, Neapolitan style, or with a big fluffy vibrant square of the crust, gourmet toppings or stuffing, pizza at city center and Pizza Yess is a “round” finger-licking featuring an interior of experience worth exploring. Charming and vintage school desks, simple yet vibrant atmosphere, prime quality blackboards and maps, ingredients. Next to the pizza flavors the menu this is a “school” you’ll reveals even a bigger range of appetizers, be most eager to attend. salads and favorite dishes such as burgers, Enjoy your morning club-sandwiches and of course pasta, all coffee, try pasta recipes with a distinct Italian flair. 106 Agoniston and slices of crispy pizza, or Stratopedou Haidariou str., Haidari, perfectly made cocktails, all +302105812624, fb: Yess Pizza 46 _ SUMMER 2019

wrapped in great music tunes. Map J8 Monastiraki,

Street Food

Koukaki, +302109241534

Everest

There’s one on every corner. A dazzling array of ingredients to choose from and make your own dream sandwich. The same applies for pies, salads, pastry, coffees, beverages. Those in the city’s centre are

usually open 24 hours. €

Feyrouz

Mama’s food: delicious soups and excellent homemade lahmacun.

Map I8 Monastiraki, 23 Karori & Eolou str., Monastiraki, +302130318060 €

Hoocut

Our national street food, the “souvlaki”, rede-

Greek Delights

Halvas A fudge made with sesame seed paste, sesame oil and sugar. It is offered as a dessert in many tavernas, after the end of a meal.

Baclavas Nuts, almonds, cinnamon, cloves and syrup. One of the most popular pastry desserts.

Galaktoboureko Another popular sweet. A pie filled with custard and then doused in vanilla syrup.

Loukoumades Deep fried little doughnuts served with honey, syrup or ice cream.

Glyka koutaliou Various Greek fruits preserved in thick sugary syrup. They come in small jars and are an ideal gift for friends back home.

Ryzogalo Rice pudding made of rice boiled in milk, sugar and vanilla, sprinkled with cinnamon.

You can find it in dairies and super markets.

Diples Deep fried honey rolls served with nuts.

signed by 5 highly talented, Michelin starred Greek chefs (owners of some of the most popular high-end cuisines in Athens). Simply delicious, definitely traditional, altogether an epicurean delight. Map J8 Monastiraki, 9 Plateia Eirinis, central Athens, 2103240026

Just Made 33

Pies, burgers, countless sandwiches!

A «gourmet» hotspot. Map J8

Monastiraki, 33 Evagelistrias str., Monastiraki, +302155258062 €

Microu Lee

Generous portions and very reasonable prices for Chinese food (the most expensive dish costs €4,90), the best comfort noodles in the world! Note this summer highlights: noodles with chicken and curry, won ton shrimps, fried rice with shrimps, beef soup, sweet potato salad and finally cheesecake with tofu. Map D10 Omonia, 14 Stournari

str., Exarchia, +302103800672 €

Oven Sesame

The most delicious versions of traditional Greek sesame buns, with the exciting fillings from tasty Greek cheese and cooked meats, to local sausage or spicy mincemeat. Also a large variety of sweet suggestions.

Ideal for a filling snack. Map J8 Mona-

stiraki, 17 Eolou str., +302103230038 €

Best places to chill out Athens can get hot during the summer months. The good news is that some of the best places to chill out are museum courtyards, so you can combine moments of relaxation in a shady garden together with your arty visit.

Café at the Kerameikos Building Complex (Museum of Islamic Art) The fresco in this colourful and lively atrium is handcrafted by Navine G. Khan-Dossos, an artist who drew inspiration from Athens’s palm trees. A feel-good environment, perfect for a quick coffee break. Mon-Wed-Sun 10.30-

`

17.30, Thu-Sat 12.00-20.00, Tue: Closed.

Map I4 Thissio, 22 Ag. Asomaton & Dipilou str., Monastiraki, +302103251311, benaki.gr Numismatic Museum of Athens

1 Vasilissis Sofias & Koumpari str., Kolonaki, +302103671000 Byzantine and Christian Museum Café Located in the glorious villa of the Duchess of Plaisance. Coffee, desserts, hot dishes and noise-free.

` Mon-Frid: 09.00-20.00. Sat & Sun: 09.0021.00 Map K15 Evangelismos, 22 Vasilissis Sofias Av., Kolonaki, +302110120441 Café of the National Archaeological Museum

A cozy old-fashioned café in a quiet, shady, green courtyard with replicas of ancient statues. The café offers beverages, salads etc.

Every Thursday night there is live jazz. Mon-Sat 09:00-23:00,

Located inside the Atrium, the café houses 700 plants referred to in Greek Mythology, so it offers a great combination of an Ancient Greece flavour with some exhibits of botanical interest.

Sun 09.00-20.00. Map J11 Syntagma, 12 Panepistimiou str., +302103610067

Victoria, 44 Patission str., +302132144891

`

` Mon: 13:00-20:00. Tue-Sun. 08:00-20:00.

Benaki Museum Café

Cycladic Café

A meeting point for the cultural crowds, one of the most popular museum cafés of Athens. Promises of unforgettable romantic afternoons with a view of the Acropolis. Wed & Fri 21:00-17:00, Thu &

A modern secret garden right in the heart of Athens ideal for a break with a touch of Mediterranean cuisine. Mon-Wed-

`

Sat 09:00-24:00, Sun 09:00-15:00. Closed on Mon-Tue. Map K15 Evangelismos,

`

Fri-Sat 10:00-17:00, Thu 10:00-20:00, | Sun 11:00-17:00 Free WiFi. Map K15 Evangelismos, 4 Neofytou Douka str., Kolonaki, +302107228321-3 SUMMER 2019 _ 47

The Greek Wine Survival Guide So much more than just retsina. How to impress your friends.

By Yiannis Dimopoulos

Hotel Grande Bretagne, GB Roof Garden

G

etting wine drunk on vacation without a care in the world is one of summer’s greatest pleasures and Greek culture might be the one to thank for such a fabulous tradition. It’s true. Greeks invented the so-called “symposia” (literally drinking parties with a couple of orgies involved) to honor Dionysus, the God of wine and mischief, hence Greece being considered one of the world’s oldest wine-producing regions, making its own wine for the past 6,500 years. Ever since the tourism boom in the country during the 1960s, a white wine called “retsina” became almost synonymous to Greek wine and Greece in general, due to its strong resin aroma . But there is far more than that for wine lovers. In recent years the wine industry in Greece has opened up to younger new participants. Charming wine bars are springing up everywhere, together with a generation of new winemakers, educated in France and the US, taking charge of existing wineries, introducing new methods and reintroducing old forgotten varieties.

For many years now, top international varieties have been cultivated with great success. Top sommeliers, wine writers and traders have put Greece firmly on the global “wine map”.

3 wine trends in Greece

1

Like the rest of the world, in Greece as well there is a selective tendency for consumers when it comes to wine as they look for “special” ones which will offer a unique experience in the form of a bottle. Here are some of the Greek labels on the rise: Liatiko Amphorea (Douloufakis), Rhobola (Melissinos), Rhoditis (Tetramythos), Mystirio (Karamolegos), Orange Wine (Anatolikos), Orgion (Sklavou) Xinomavro Rosé (Oenos Nature)

2

Orange wines are also becoming more popular among the aspired wine consumers. To make orange wine you have to combine the ingredients of white wines and the process of reds. This means that this particular kind is made with white grapes varieties that ferment 48 _ SUMMER 2019

with their skin and seeds still on. The taste however has nothing to do with the regular white wines or the reds. It is unique. Sour and somewhat dry, fruity and strong.

Some of the most promising Greek labels are: ΜΕΤΑ 2011, Pieria Eratini (Pieria Malagouzia), Mithymneon Portokali - Yiannis Lambrou (Lesbos Hydiriotiko), Tatsis Rhoditis (Goumenissa)

3

Tides have also turned for some rare Greek varieties, some of which we may have never heard before and some, lost in time and forgotten, have “flourished” again due to the efforts of devoted Greek winemakers. As such, it is worth looking for: Villana, Vidiano, Limniona, Liatiko, Kydonitsa, Plito, Mavrotragano, Monemvasia, Negoska.

Some of the best producers and their top wines are listed below. A bottle of good white wine in the liqueur stores costs between €15-25, and a bottle of red €20-40.

The most important indigenous Greek wine grapes White varieties Assyrtico: The finest white grape from the Island of Santorini, and possibly the cheapest top white wine in the world. Mineral with high acidity, ages well. Try to distinguish an aged assyrtiko to a Chablis Grand Cru. Malagousia: Aromatic, with a scent of ripe peaches, apricots and green pepper.

Moschofilero: A sweet, aromatic grape, the Greek Gewurztraminer!

Red varieties Agiorgitico: Rich, deeply coloured, ages well.

Xinomavro: Greece’s answer to Barolo, needs time to develop.

Some of the top producers

Aivalis, Alpha Estate, Antonopoulos, Arghyros, Biblia Chora, Boutaris, Driopi, Douloufakis, Gaia, Gerovassiliou, Hatzidakis, Hatzimichalis, Katogi Strofilia, Katsaros, Kir-Yanni, Manousakis, Mercouri, Papaioannou, Pavlidis, Samos, Sigalas, Skouras, Sklavos, Thimiopoulos, Tselepos.

My favourite

Wine resto

By the Glass This hot spot for wine lovers offers one of the most updated and exciting wine lists in the city, in a cozy beautiful atrium. You may choose from 250 different wine labels including Greek and international varieties.

More than 50 of them are served by the glass.

They also serve coffee, spirits and food.

From early in the morning till late at night. Map M11 Syntagma, 3 G. Souri & Philellinon str., +302103232560 €€

`

Caravin On one of the most vibrant streets of Thissio where the bustling blend of locals and tourists meet, this wine resto features on the top of the Athenian summer nights-out agenda. Treat your appetite with some excellent finger delights while lazing cheerfully on large fluffy pillows –a flower garden is hanging from the ceiling– or outside under the trees. A limited yet tasteful selection of Mediterranean and Greek dishes is complemented by an interesting variety of 90 different Greek and international wine labels. 11 Akamandos str., Thissio, 2114003962

Heteroclito Wines from Greek producers, good prices and tasty side-dishes with cheese and cold cuts. Every day from 18:00 till late. Map K9 Syntagma, 2 Fokionos & Petraki str., +302103239406 €

`

L’ Audrion Exquisite dishes and variety of French cheese. The walk-in cellar contains “diamonds” of the French vineyard. Filomoussou Eterias sq. 3, Plaka, +302103241193

Materia Prima Soaked in the sweet aromas of wine this authentic bar is always filled with happy faces appreciating a glass of good wine. The extensive wine list includes labels from celebrated Greek wineries as well as an excellent sample from wine producing regions around the world. In addition to daily wine tastings, there are regular wine-oriented events organized, such as talks with wine producers and more. If you fancy beer or spirits more, you’ll find the list updated for you too, on a weekly basis. Open from 17:00 in the afternoon. Mondays closed. 68, Falirou str., Koukaki, 2109245935

`

White wines Alpha Estate: Sauvignon Blanc Antonopoulos: Chardonnay Anax Argyros: Vareli Assyrtico, Ktima Biblia Chora: Ovilos Boutaris: Kalisti Reserve Gaia: Τhalassitis, Wild ferment Assyrtico Gerovassiliou: Chardonnay, Malagousia Hatzidakis: Nihteri, Louros Katsaros: Chardonnay Kir-Yanni: Samaropetra Manousakis: Roussanne Mercouri: Malvasia Sigalas: Nihteri, Cavalieros Skouras: Viognier Eclectique Sklavos: Robola Red wines Aivalis: Monopati Alpha Estate: Xinomavro Unfiltered, Alpha 1 Antonopoulos: Nea Dris Avantis: Collection Syrah Biblia Chora: Ovilos Boutaris: Classic Grand Reserve, 1879 Driopi: Agiorgitico Gaia: Agiorgitico Gerovassiliou: Avaton, Syrah Karydas: Xinomavro Katogi Strofilia: Ktima Averof Kir-Yanni: Diaporos, Blue Fox Manousakis: Syrah Mercouri: Refosco Papaioannou: Mikroklima, Terroir Sigalas: Mavrotragano Skouras: Solera aged Labyrinth, Megas Oinos Thimiopoulos: New age Xinomavro Tselepos: Kokkinomylos Sweet wines Vinsanto: Sun dried grapes from Santorini. These wines have the complexity of olorosos and Tokajs. Top producers: Argiros and Sigalas.

Mavrodaphne: Sweet fortified wines. Best old like Banyls.

Muscat: Sweet wines from Samos island.

Good and fairly priced Let us recommend to you some good and fairly priced Greek wines that are easy to pair, fine-bodied and naturally refreshing for an all-hours allure.

Ktima Alpha: Malagouzia Zafirakis: Paleomilos Skoura: Armira Avantis: White Gaea: Moshofilero Semeli: Yiorti Tselepos: Mantinia Vivlia Chora: White Pavlides: Thema White Kyr-Yiannis: Samaropetra Theodorakakos: Kydonitsa SUMMER 2019 _ 49

Bars&Clubs & y a d y b l a c i s s cla A thens: litan by nigh t cosmopo

Athens is the city of enjoying nightlife. Visitors are always welcome to spend crazy nights out.

Especially, in the centre of Athens you can find many hot spots with a view or unique bars with special cocktails or clubs for partying till the sun comes up. Come on, come and join us!

By REGINA FILOGLOU - Photo: MARAVELIAS ALEXANDROS IOANNIS 50 _ SUMMER 2019

DOWNTOWN 42 A cozy, elegant and classy cocktail bar

where you can enjoy homemade blends and Greek flavors. You can also enjoy your drink at the quiet pedestrian street where the bar is located. The menu changes every month.

Hip hop, jazz, soul music. Map J10 Syntagma, 3 Kolokotroni str., Syntagma, +302130052153

Drunk Sinatra If you look for a place to enjoy your drink while listen to jazz and swing music this is the perfect place. The decoration is really unique and of course there are many photos of great Sinatra. One of the most popular places in town especially in the summer as the bar is located in a pedestrian street. Map J9 Syntagma, 16 Thisseos str., Syntagma, +302103313733

The Bank Job Located only 5 to 10

minutes walk from Monastiraki and Syntagma, Kolokotroni street is the city's hot spot and Bank Job is one of its most popular cocktail bars thanks to its peculiar cocktail list. This year, you can discover Athens and its world famous museums via the inspired recipes of Bank Job’s 14 new cocktails. 13 Kolokotroni str., Athens, fb: thebankjobathens

GAZI - VOTANIKOS KERAMEIKOS Bios A multi lever building full of arts, drinks

and music. It is highly recommended for party’s. It hosts very often famous djs, live performances, art and new-media exhibitions. Also you can enjoy your drink at the roof garden. Map I3 Kerameikos,

84 Pireos str., Kerameikos, +302103425335

Gazarte Sophisticated lounge space on

three levels. At the first floor you can enjoy finger food and terrific cocktails. Its summer terrace attracts visitors from all around the city. The top floor hosts unique events and exhibitions. Map I1

FINE DRINKING IN ATHENS The Athenian bartending community is celebrating moments of glory, because those who are part of this scene are young with real passion for their job and at the same time they have experience and great knowledge about drinking. Excellent drinks are offered everywhere, while in the narrow streets of the historical center you will find two well-known Athenian bars, The Clumsies (30 Praxitelous str., +302103232682) and Baba au Rum (6 Kleitiou str., +302117109140), which are among the 50 best in the world. You can also drink special Cocktails with Greek spirits and herbs.

Other Athenian Nightlife Districts Panormou Square (Map A25,

Panormou)

Also known as “The island of Athens”, because of its open-air bars. Wee dram (+302106916509) is an authentic scottish pub, Sensimilia and Santa Botella (+302106981032) are classical choices in the area.

Karitsi Square (Map J10

Syntatgma)

Once the ultimate hipster hotspot, now struggling to hold its position, nevertheless still an option with quality choices. Probably the best is the Gin Joint, with more than 65 varieties of Gin (+302103218646), Tall's Toy Bar is a tiny favourite (+302130448864), and PairiDaeza is the oldest bar on the square (+302103210233).

Mavili (Map F22,

Ambelokipi)

Historic Mavili Square will reward you if you are looking for a slightly sophisticated summer hangout. Briki, the place to be after 1:00 a.m.

Legendary bar with loyal patrons, always crowded.

A hub for the city’s thirty somethings.

6 Dorileou str., Mavili sq., +302106452380. Kyrios, very classy decoration, expensive glasses, jazzy music.

Also serves food. Dorileou 2, Mavili sq., +302106400615 Loras, a classic option of the Athenian nightlife. Journalists meeting point, excellent quality of alcohol. 7 Soutsou str., Mavili sq., +302106428473

Kerameikos, 32-34 Voutadon str., Gazi, +302103460347

PLAKA - MONASTIRAKI THISSIO - PETRALONA Six d.o.g.s An art bar with full of

electronic music, exhibitions and a wonderful rear-garden where you can enjoy your drink or cocktail. Map J7 Monastiraki, 6-8 Avramiotou str.,

Monastiraki, +302103210510

Tiki Athens Tiki is the first exotica bar in athens. Many unique events take place at TIKI. Music includes mixing of new and oldest pieces.

Map Q7

Akropoli, 15 Falirou str., Makrigianni, +302109236908

Upopa Epops Spirits and fresh

ingridients in a talk of the town bar that is a flash back in old Athens. Map K1 Kerameikos, 7 Alkminis str.,

Petralona, +302121055214

ATHENS SEAFRONT Akrotiri Club Restaurant

Decorated in black and white, with fluorescent

notes, echoing mainstream disco and house music. It offers Mediterranean cuisine and attracts a fashionable crowd. B’5 Vassileos Georgiou Av.,

Agios Kosmas Beach, +302109859148

Island The most famous “island” in Athens. A

modern club-restaurant that captures the spirit of the Cyclades. Frozen cocktails, Mediterannean cuisine, lounge music, dance parties, lots of celebrities. 27th km Athens-Sounio Road, Varkiza,

GAY FRIENDLY Big Bar

The first gay friendly bar in Athens includes: low prices, very friendly atmosphere, also hosts exhibitions.

Map J1 Kerameikos, 12 Falesias str., Votanikos, +306946282845

Noiz

Probably the best known club for girls who are looking for girls, also very welcoming to every other sexuality.

Map H1 Kerameikos, 78 Konstantinoupoleos str., Gazi +302103467850

Shamone Fun club, theme

nights, drag shows, happy ambiance.

Kerameikos, 46 Konstantinoupoleos str., Gazi, +302103450144

+302109653563-4

PIRAEUS Che Cocktails and latin American dishes in

a mexican-like hacienda at a popular terrace. 151

Karaiskou str., Piraeus, +302104296660

Beluga Unique modern-retro décor, open

from early in the morning till late at night with delicious coffee, Mediterranean cuisine, a varied wine and cocktail list combined with swing jazz sounds. 8-10 Defteras Merarchias str., Piraeus,

GREEK BAR DICTIONARY Shot: sfinaki Low quality alcohol beverage: bomba Straight drink: sketo Cheers: ya mas!

Free drink (usually offered by the barman or another customer): kerasma

+302104116505 SUMMER 2019 _ 51

Life is aeach B

Athens boasts a long amazing coastline, the famous Athens Riviera, with countless beaches for every taste By ero Partsakoulaki - Photo: THANASIS KARATZAS

Follow e svoic t a @ hen favourite r u o y d Uploa stagram ts on in htag n e m o m he has using t nsvoice #athe

52 _ SUMMER 2019

I

f you haven’t planned to visit one of the beautiful Greek islands you can enjoy the sun and the crystal clear waters of Athens.

The access is very easy by tram or a short drive. In 30-40 minutes you ‘ll find yourself working on your suntan and enjoying a relaxing day far from the city’s buzz. If you are wondering where to swim just follow the list and our tips to find what best suits you.

Free Access beaches Alepochori (66 km)

An ideal beach where you can find crystal clear water and a beautiful sunset. Also the beach includes volley ball courts, beach bars and fish-taverns. If someone want to spend more than one day there is an organized camping as well.

Edem (Paleo Faliro) (9 km)

A sandy beach very close to the centre of Athens.

Usually pretty crowded, so rush hours are to be avoided.

Close to Flisvos beach, the easiest way to get there is by taking the Tram to the stop “Edem”.

Erotospilia (43 km)

You can enjoy the sea and the sun while relaxing on a sunbed in the shade from the trees or an umbrella. It’s worth visiting as it is one of the most popular beaches in Porto Rafti and very close to Athens city centre. During weekends it is overcrowded. There is also a kiosk nearby for water and basic food supplies.

Limanakia Vouliagmenis (20 km)

The name of the beach means in Greek “small ports”. It is absolutely the best place to relax. If you get there before 11:00 you’ll probably be lucky enough to find a nice spot. The water is clean and a bit cold. Favorite location for nudists and divers. Leave your towel on the rocks surrounding the turquoise natural pools and jump straight into the water.

You can just park your car on the side of the road.

Megalo Kavouri (17 km)

An ideal spot with really clean water and a nice view. The beach is surrounded by many café’s and taverns where you can enjoy quality food and drinks. It is heavily crowded during weekends. However, it is a great choice for chilling or a nice walk by the sea in the evening.

Psatha (66 km)

Ideal beach for a short escape from Athens, big enough to accomodate everyone. With two and a half km of coastline, it is visibly less crowded than the nearby, organized Alepochori. With a view to the Corinthian gulf and crystal clear waters, the landscape is great and you can even set up your tent for the night. To get there take the road to Megara and follow the signs to Alepochori.

Varnava (35 km)

A beautiful and clean beach located at the Evian gulf.

Get to the village named “Varnava” in the East of Attica region and drive 12 more km to the beach. On the way to the coast you will pass many bays but it’s preferable to choose among those on your right. If you feel like eating something there are a few family tavernas in the area.

Organised Beaches Asteras Glyfadas (20 km)

A luxury complex including many facilities to rest and enjoy your weekend or just a day. It features 3 bars, children facilities, and a capacity of over 5,000 people.

Right on the beach, in Balux Cafe-Seaside, you can relax by the sea or enjoy a dish of Polynesian cuisine. Bus line

`

122 from Elliniko metro station or Bus A2 from Acadimias Str. Entrance fee: €4 weekdays and €6 on weekends (deckchairs and umbrellas included).

Half price for children 4-12 years old. +302108941620, asterascomplex. * SUMMER 2019 _ 53

H BEAC

Asteras Vouliagmenis (20 km)

Astir beach, as they call it, is one of the best beaches on the Athenian Riviera. A luxury spot –as of this year, renovated, under the international famed brand Four Seasons– where you can definitely enjoy your swim.

Favoured by celebrities, emerging stars and their fans, this beach is definitely the most glamorous and an Athenian elite favourite. It has been visited, among others, by Brigitte Bardot and Joan Collins.

Bus line 122 from Elliniko metro station. Entrance fee: €18 weekdays, €28 weekends, free admission for children under 5, half price for those between the ages of 5 to 12.

Free facilities include umbrellas, deckchairs, locker rooms, showers with hot water and Internet access. The pool is a good alternative. Caretaker service for little children provided upon request. +302108901694

`

Grand Beach Lagonissi (35 km)

` Entrance fee is €4 per person weekdays and €5

weekends. The reduced fee is €3 on weekdays and €4 on weekends. Reduced fees apply for students 6 to 18 and big families (relative documentation required).

Vouliagmeni Lake (21 km)

An ideal place to relax and enjoy the therapeutic qualities of its water. The temperature is always between 22 to 29°C, so devoted patrons come for morning-long immersions all year-round. There is also a restaurant and a romantic café.

` Entrance fee €10 weekdays, €11 weekends.

A unique beach with a spectacular view and luxurious facilities. Enjoy the pool, the floating bar, the beach bar, the restaurants as well as facilities for people with disabilities in a relaxed environment. Entrance fee €15 week-

`

days, €25 weekends. The price includes umbrellas and decks. Parking costs €6 on weekdays and €12 on the weekend. +302291076000, lagonissiresort.gr

Vouliagmeni beach (20 km)

away from Athens’s centre and has a coastline of 650 meters. Located almost 20 km southeast of the center, just off Poseidonos Avenue, it offers beach umbrellas and sun-beds, a variety of sport activities (tennis, basketball, volleyball and racquetball) and a mini playground.

+302108962237, limnivouliagmenis.gr

Yabanaki (27 km)

Ideal water park for families, includes waterslides, water games, restaurants and beach bars. The parking is free. Easy access.

` Entrance fee €5 weekdays, €6 weekends, €3,50 for

One of the most popular destinations, is the best organized beach located just a heartbeat

students, senior citizens and children aged 6-12. Free admission for children under 6. On weekdays regular deckchairs are free of charge, weekends you have to pay €10/ set. +302108972414, yabanaki.gr

Naked in the sun

Limanakia Vouliagmenis (20 km)

The third cove is the favorite spot for nudists. Keep in mind that on your way back you’ll have to hike on rocks.

Legrena (second beach, 64 km)

© THANASIS KARATZAS

If you are looking for a clean but no facilities beach you are at the right place. There are many taverns and cafés around where you can enjoy a fresh meal or an iced coffee by the sea.

Really crowded during weekends. To get here, turn left after the KAPE sign, shortly before the village of “Legrena”.

Nudists prefer the second beach, next to the big one just pass the small rocks. Along the Athens-Sounio coastal road, there are dozens of small coves ideal for all swimming preferences. Bring with you water or food as there are no kiosks in the area.

54 _ SUMMER 2019

Ramnounta (64 km)

The ideal beach for relaxation as it is isolated and not organized. To get there, head east to Gramatiko and just before the local village turn right following the sign “Limnonas”. Be brave enough to continue the journey and go ahead as soon as you see the “Sesi” sign.

At this point turn right to the steep downhill.

Don’t miss Τhe opportunity to discover the most beautiful secret of the city. Book the luxurious catamaran of Sailing Athens for a morning or sunset semi-private or private half-day cruise, and a full-day private cruise, up to ten persons. The cruises include historical narrations across the Athenian coastline, sailing, swimming, snorkeling in crystal blue waters and an amazing © THANASIS KARATZAS

gastronomic

How to get there bus You can see all the bus schedules at oasa.gr or call 1185

(Mon-Fri 06:30-22:30, Sat-Sun 07:30-22:30) tram The most relaxed way to get to the coastline.

Voula is the terminal station (“Asklipio Voulas”), and it departs from Syntagma. (stasy.gr)

KTEL buses They depart from Mavromateon str. Pedion tou Areos and go all the way to Rafina and Sounio.

(for Athens-Sounio call +302108808081 and for Athens-Rafina +302108808082).

G

reece is awarded a total of 534 blue flags and ranks second in the world in the 2019 Blue Flag Quality Award List.

515 beaches, 15 marinas and 4 sustainable tourism boating operators are “pined” with the blue flag on the country’s map, the Hellenic Society for the Protection of Nature (EEPF) reports, with 115 of the awarded beaches and 1 marina to be located on the island of Crete (the Lasithi and Hania regions).

The Halkidiki peninsula, northern Greece, is proudly holding 89 Blue Flags, the highest number for a single regional unit, while the island of Rhodes welcomes summer with 39 awarded beaches.

The Hellenic Society for the Protection of Nature (EEPF) is the organization implementing the Blue Flag program in Greece. The BLUE FLAG is a highly prestigious world distinction for water quality, environmental consciousness and initiative, environmental management, safety and services, awarded to beaches, marinas and sustainable boating tourism operators.

3.797 beaches, 695 marinas and 67 tourism boats in 47 countries were awarded the Blue Flag this year. Spain is once again featuring number 1 on the list, holding the record number of 669 awarded sites.

Blue Flags 2019

Find out more about Greece’s Blue Flags for 2019: www.blueflag.gr/awards/2019

experience.

` sailingathens.com +302155259494

❱❱ The beaches of Attica are very popular among the locals and thus can be very crowded at times: better to visit them during weekdays and early hours before noon. ❱❱ Don’t expect to find a bar or a canteen everywhere: be prepared and bring with you a bottle of water, towels and some snacks.

❱❱ In Greece, it’s very usual to encounter people playing “raketes”, a beach game similar to tennis.

The sound of the ball hitting the racket can be very disturbing so if you spot them upon your arrival and you prefer a more quiet day, try the end of the beach which is usually less crowded.

SUMMER 2019 _ 55

Camping

culture

An experience closer to nature

By ELENI BEZIRIANOGLOU

The turquoise waters of Porovitsas beautiful pebbled beach dominates upon the horizon. Located on the outskirts of northern Peloponnese the site makes the perfect starting post for exploring the region’s glorious ancient history as it is in close distance to the ancient theater of Aigai and the archaeological sites of Delphi, Argolis, Corinth and Olympia. Surrounded by a vast green nature, Akrata beach offers perfectly maintained facilities for all tastes campers, as well a mini market, a restaurant and an all-day coffee bar, plenty of activities for children and an exciting variety of water sports. Akrata

Beach Camping, Porovitsas Beach, Akrata, +302696031988, +302696031067 info@akratabeach-camping.gr

Camping Bacchus

Ideal destination for camping enthusiasts and a refreshing weekend stop if you want to witness one of the most mesmerizing sun downs in Athens, as it is located just 4 kilometers away from the world famous Temple of Poseidon at Sounio. Pitch your tent or caravan under the lavish shades of the green surrounding and for those “unprepared”, there are tents and caravans already set at the premises available for rent. A playground, restaurant and snack bar and a fully “loaded” mini market among the accommodations. The site offers free wi-fi, also it is pet friendly and ecofriendly with new biological treatment of waste system, new solar water

56 _ SUMMER 2019

heaters and recycling bins. Open all year round. www.campingbacchus.gr, Sounio, Attica,

tel. +302292039572-1

Camping Nea Kifissia

Just 16 kilometers from the city center, you ’ll find the train from Athens to Kifissia extremely convenient in getting there. Tucked among an abundant surrounding of trees and flora the site serves as a fascinating excuse for a weekend escape to the northern Athenian suburbs. Apart from the showers, the WCs and washbasins, accommodation includes washing machines, a bar, coffee shop and restaurant, a beautiful swimming pool, free wi-fi and a communal barbeque area. You should have your own tent, though, and the stay will cost around €7 for the tent and €8 for each person. Petfriendly and open all year round.

www.camping-neakifissia.gr , 16o klm. AthinonLamias national road, 60 Potamou str., Adames area, Nea Kifissia, +302108075579

Camping Varkizas

Stretching along two small coves overlooking the clear waters of the Saronic Golf, Camping Varkiza features as the perfect scenery for water sports lovers, as it combines comfortable stay, clean and hospitable environment and the ideal wind conditions all summer long for windsurfing or diving - with the coastline all the way from Vouliagmeni to Sounio being full of reefs, underwater cliffs and small isles waiting to be explored. 27o klm. Athinon-Souniou Av., Varkiza,

+302108973615

Camping Nea Makri

Close to Athens, yet far away from the crowds and the buzz, Camping Nea Makri is an enjoyable 38 kilometers drive from the city center and just 10 kilometers away from the port of Rafina that connects Athens with the islands of Cyclades. Beautiful surrounding, comfy accommodations, the long Nea Makri beach, and plenty of recreational activities, services and facilities among which a coffee-bar and restaurant, mini market, dishes and clothes washing areas, communal cooking and barbequing areas with freezers and refrigerators, free Wi-Fi around the reception and lounge area. Public transportation makes moving around an easy task with daily bus departures, from and to the camping. Open all year round. www.campingneamakri.gr , 156 Maratho-

nos Av., Nea Makri, +302294092719

Camping Alkioni

It takes less than an hour’s drive to reach Schinos and the beautiful forest footpaths surrounding Camping Alkioni, a perfect spot for relaxing getaways and family fun weekends. Well organized communal facilities, playgrounds, a restaurant and a beach bar among its accommodations. And if you are not the absolute camper type, you might as well choose the affordable luxury and exclusion of the camping’s studio apartments. Some night clubbing at the famous Cariocas bar next to the camping site sounds tempting. Also, the traditional taverns spread along the beachline give plenty of appetite alternatives. www.camp-

ingalkioni.gr, Schinos, Loutraki +302744057294

©Akrata Beach Camping

Akrata Beach camping

SUMMER 2019 _ 57

r e m m Su

Photo:

@mvernicos / MARINA VERNICOS

It wouldn’t just be a shame to visit Greece during the summer months without picking an island to go to. It would be impossible! This is a once-in-a-lifetime opportunity to swim in the clearest waters you have ever seen, marvel the traditional architecture, taste extraordinary recipes and have the most fun you can have. Welcome to the Greek islands!

58 _ SUMMER 2019

SUMMER 2019 _ 59

Mykonos

Jetsetters’ paradise

Photo:

T

By Aggeliki Birbili @mvernicos / Marina VernicoS

he island sparkling with fame, champagne and the “click” of a camera. Undoubtedly Mykonos is the Greek island that gathers the most buzz, press, celebrities and fame and is right up there with the most glorious island destinations from around the world. Think Capri and Ibiza but with a very Cycladic feel and locals dancing the syrtaki every so often. Everyone who is someone pays Mykonos a visit each summer, from movie stars to politicians and instagram influencers. They all spend their sunkissed days lying on beaches and drinking margaritas and their nights squeezing pass each other in the narrow streets of the picturesque village, moving between bars and clubs. Bring along the prettiest and most glamorous pieces of your wardrobe, all your energy, your desire to party and every credit card in your possession. If you’re not a fan of people, loud music, luxury and vivid nightlife, this is probably not the best choice for you.

The fact that the world famous Japanese restaurant Nobu set up shop first in Mykonos and a few years later in Athens says a lot about the kind of holiday you should expect there.

Reasons to visit Mykonos

Its incredible beaches, the gourmet dishes from world famous chefs, cosmopolitan hotels, interesting galleries and an amazing combination of local shops filled with original pieces next to the world’s biggest fashion houses such as Gucci, Fendi and Dior.

It’s notorious nightlife is famous globally, especially amongst members of the LGBTQ community who consider it almost a right of passage to vacation here.

If you are still wondering why is so crowded every year think of the beautiful alleys, the white Cycladic houses, the windmills and the majestic sunset.

* 60 _ SUMMER 2019

SUMMER 2019 _ 61

Photo:

@mvernicos / Marina Vernicos

Where to eat, drink and enjoy nighlife in Chora

Old Port: Visit Roca Cookery (+302289022955) with the sensational Mimis Foukas in charge of lifting your spirits and a breathtaking view of the entire Chora and the boats by the harbor.

Greek cuisine at its best. Go to the classical tavern Nikos (+302289024320) and for fresh fish at Kounela (+302289028220). Pita Wrap & Pizza will make you rethink fast food! The freshest of ingredients, a gourmet vibe, affordable prices and a quick and friendly staff.

School of Fine Arts: At Belvedere Hotel (+302289025122) the famous restaurant Nobuyuki Matsuhisa, Matsuhisa Mykonos (+302289025122) and at Thea, modern Mediterranean cuisine.

Little Venice: On Alefkandras square you can eat at the organic and healthy Nice ’n’ Easy (+302289025421), sophisticated Greek cuisine by chef Christos Athanasiadis and Spala (+302289025421) for a farm-to-table philosophy and “surf and turf” (meaning dishes with both meat and fish or seafood which taste amazing). For sushi you can go to Sic (+302289022450). A bit further you can find Mamalouka (+302289023505) with the charming courtyard and its Mediterranean cuisine and Scarpa (+302289023294) where you can listen to house music and join the party. There is also the all day café bar Vicolo (+302289026551).

Semeli Bar (+302289026505) is open from early morning for tasty omelettes and ouzo, while 62 _ SUMMER 2019

Municipality: 2289022201 Police Station: 2289022716 Port Authority: 2289022218 Healthcare Center: 2289023994

on the top floor you’ll find the London style VIP Club Toy Room (+306944385959) with R&B music. Enjoy the sunset at Baos, an ethnic, rock, cocktail bar (+302289029217). Under the windmills eat at the best grill of the island at Sea Satin (+302289024676).

On the beach: The menu at the restaurant Natura at Leto Hotel (+302289022207) is edited

by Chef Giorgos Koumpouris, and the Perouvian bar restaurant Nikkei (+306937900201) from Giorgos Konstantinou and its team is situated at Agias Kyriakis square.

Aleomandra region: Retreat restaurant (+302289079188) housed at Mykonos Retreat hotel is a great choice.

Square of AgiaMoni (Paraportiani): Located on this square is one of the most famous bars of the island JackieO' by Michalis and Carsten (+302289077298), a straight friendly bar combined with unforgettable drag shows (every night at 1:30).

Lakka: Ivan’s italian Sale &Pepe (+302289024207), the postmodern tavern Bakalo (+302289078121), definitely the Mediterraneo and finally Samuele’s minimal Sushi Med and Funky Kitchen (+302289027272) with chef Pavlos Grivas and mediterranean cuisine with a twist.

Tria Pigadia: The Astra club has been one of the hottest clubs for the last 30 years with famous Athenian dj’s on the decks. At Enoplon Dinameon street the champagne & cocktail bar Queen (+306946618539) and nearby the Louis Vuitton store, the club Bon Bonniere (+306980611154) straight from London and New York.

Kalogera: The famous Asian Ling Ling by Hakkasan (+302289022515). At M-eating eat Mediterranean cuisine (+302289078550) of chef Panagiotis Menandros, the Kalita (+302289027102) with Greek creative cuisine of chef Vaios Ntoutsias. Go to Eva’s garden (+302289022160) where miss Eleni cooks tasty traditional Greek food for more than 30 years. The all year round Maereio (+302289028825) for Greek cuisine.

At Goumeniou square: The Famillia (+302289078638), Allegro/ Makris Gyalos (+302289025030) with Mediterranean cuisine, Nautilus (+302289027100) with Greek Mediterranean and the small wine bar Vino’s (+302289028622). Also the timeless Maison de Katrin (+302289022169) at Nikiou.

Matogiannia: At Artisanal (+302289026217) chef Dimitris Dimitriadis creates Greek Μediterranean dishes. Lotus (+302289022881) for mixed Mediterranean cuisine. Breakfast and light lunch at Aroma café (+302289027148), fusion Mediterranean cuisine at the cosmopolitan bar-reastaurant Interni (+302289026333). In Blu Blu Mykonos (+3089028711), right next to the Archeological Museum, you will find an amazing sea view and enjoy coffee or breakfast, fresh juices and snacks, drinks and cocktails. And a giant TV screen so you don’t miss the most important sports events of the season.

Dafraki: At the small all day restaurant Lady *

SUMMER 2019 _ 63

neoclassical building at Panagia Panachra square. A residency / exhibition space with invited artists who live and create artworks inspired by the island. This year, the hosted artists are Spyros Aggelopoulos, Joakim Ojanen, Sam Friedman, Amir Fallah, Hulda Guzman.

Kapopoulos Fine Arts (15, Enoplon Dinameon str., +302289027005) presents for the first time in Greece, a series of artworks by the worldwide known artist Mr.Brainwash (until 26/7).

Finger (+302289024231) of Andronikos hotel, taste Greek creative cuisine.

Agrinera Area: At the Thailand-fusion Mr Pug (+302289077771) with Chef Giorgos Venieris.

Polykandrioti: The historical Remezzo (+302289025700) which has transformed to an excellent restaurant.

Gialos: Discover Bakogias (+302289023552) with really tasty fried food, the all day Alegro, the napoliten Catari (+302289078571) and the Guzel Stage Club (+306944231999).

Mado Square: At Kalamaki Mykonos for a traditional greek souvlaki and of course the all time classic-all day long Everest (+302289022245).

Agiou Ioannou: Ninnolo (+302289300998) for brunch and 100% homemade ice cream. You can also find it in Ano Mera (+302289773836).

Evaggelistraki: Go to Casa Dolce for delicious ice cream (+302289110714) by Nikos Koukiasa.

Tourlos: Traditional greek tavern Mathios (+302289022344).

Outside of Chora: Ovac (+302289020100) at Cavo Tagoo Hotel (+302289020100).

Where to stay

Athanasia’s Rooms (+306982302705), Cycladic architecure, amazingly clean rooms and the best sunset of the island Mykonos Theoxenia (+302289022230), the renovated historic hotel of ArisKonstantinidis at Kato Mili. Matogianni Hotel (+302289022217) with the elegant White Bar, Filippi (+302289022294), Mykonian K Hotels - Korali (+302289022107), Kyma (+302289023415), Νaia (+302289022108), Semeli (+302289027466), Cavo Tango (+302289020100), Rochari (+302289023107), Karbonaki (+302289024124), Kouneni (+302289079070), Boheme (+302289023300) at Drafaki, Οstraco Suites (+302289023396), Andronikos (+302289024231), Livin (+302289023474), Οstraco Suites (+302289023396), Aletro Cottage Houses (+302289025887) at Agia Sophia, Apanema Resort (+302289028590), Aelia Mykonos (+306948521765).

Fine Arts

The “DioChoria” cultural platform (+302289026429) of the art historian Marina Vranopoulou is housed in a two-storeyed 64 _ SUMMER 2019

Follow @ath Upload ensvoice, momen your favourit e ts o using t n instagram he hash tag #athen svoice

Shopping Therapy

Shop at the luxury shopping center of Nammos Village(+302289 078400) at Psarou beach, a brand new shop with exclusively KITON (for women and men), Louis Vuitton, Eres and Dsquared2 boutiques for those who know. You will find a variety of labels at the boutique of JackieO’ (+302289077298) at Super Paradise beach. Here you will also find the best jewelry shop of the Greek designer MINAS. Choose your rock jewel, wear it and keep it forever (you can also find Minas at Chora, at Matogianna Ag. Kyriakis square, +302289027320). In Andronikou str., (at Chora) Maurizio (+302289024516) has the best kimonos and handmade greek accessories. Don’t forget to taste the first myconian beer Mikonu, by the young brewers Angelos Ferus, Janos Bako and the winemaker Giannis Paraskevopoulos. You will find their microbrewery at the location Argyraina (+302289077912).

See the rest of the island

Where to swim, eat, drink, party In Mykonos you can party even on the beach.

Visit luxury beaches combined with clean crystal waters and delightful restaurants. Υou can enjoy your feast lunch while you are chilling on your seabed (sushi on the beach is the latest hot trend).

Ano Mera: Excellent food at La Cucina Di Daniele (+302289071513), Apostolis (+302289071760), To Stekitou Proedrou (+302289071925) and the tavern of Vangelis (+302289071577). Τsaf (+302289071887) is great for ouzo and seafood and there is also Fisherman - Giorgos & Marina (+302289071405). You can taste the famous myconian cheese at the Kopanisti Laboratory (+302289071425).

Agios Stefanos - Choulakia: Take a swim at this popular sandy beach with the unique view of Delos and Rhenia. It is a short distance from the new port of Tourlos and 3 km north of Chora. The beach is suitable for all ages. You may stay at Grace (+302289020000), Mykonian Mare (+302289022953), Princes of Mykonos (+302289023806). If you ’re feeling hungry there are many options: all day beach bar Saint Stefanos (+302289078961), tavern Petran (+302289025475) open until 10:00 pm, Reeza at the Rocabella Hotel (+302289028930).

Agia Anna: Swim at the famous sandy beach * at the old port in Mykonos Town (Chora).

SUMMER 2019 _ 65

66 _ SUMMER 2019

SUMMER 2019 _ 67

EK GREMER SUM

Photo:

Megali Ammos: Five minutes’ walk from the center of Chora with a few umbrellas and sunbeds. The beach is suitable for wind and kite surfing, as it is very exposed to the strong northern winds. If you are interested in horseback riding, the horse riding schools on the island are here. You can eat at Beefbar (+302289077865) or at Gastronomy Project (+302289026660) both at Hotel Bill & Coo Coast Suites (+302289026292).

Korfos: Near Chora, hot spot for surfers.

Agios Ioannis – Diakoftis: From this sandy beach you can enjoy spectacular views overlooking Delos. You can eat at Pili Beach Restaurant (+302289026660) with fine Mediterranean cuisine and Hippie Fish (+302289023547) at Hippie Chic Hotel (+302289022901), where the “Shirley Valentine” movie was filmed in ’89. There’s also Apollonia Resort (+302289027890), Saint John Hotel Villas & Spa (+302289028752).

Kapari: After the chapel of Agios Ioannis, a narrow dirt road to the right leads to the this small unspoiled beach. It has fine sand and the best view of Delos.

Choulakia: A pebbled beach.

Ornos: A sandy crowded beach, with 68 _ SUMMER 2019

@mvernicos / Marina Vernicos

cosmopolitan hotels and restaurants, in one of the biggest bays of the island. Eat, drink, party: My Ammos Lounge Bar at Mykonos Ammos Hotel (+302289022600), for mediterranean-fusion go to Kuzina (+302289026434), for fusion and sushi to Pasaji Mykonos (+302289023216), for greek taverna go to Konstantis (+302289022837), Seaside all day bar Aperanto Galazio (+302289027991), Apagio (+302289024344) with Mediterranean cuisine, hot spot Buddha Bar Beach (+302289023220) at luxury Santa Marina Resort &Villas (+3089023220), the gourmet La Μeduse (+302289024094), Kenshõ Boutique Hotel & Suites (+3089078788) with wellness centre, Kivotos (+302289024094) with private beach and boat for daily cruises.

Psarou: A very trendy, with the world famous beach bar Nammos (+302289022440). It is an organized beach with powdery sand and emerald waters and a variety of water sports, including a diving school. Mykonos Blu (+302289027900).

Paraga: With the white sand and the big ideal for diving rock in the middle. Party vibes at Kahlua bar (+302289023397), the family tavern Tasos (+302289023002). The VIP complex *

SUMMER 2019 _ 69

EK GREMER SUM

SantAnna (+302289025803), with the biggest by-the-sea pool in Europe and two organic food restaurants, one with well-informed Greek cuisine and one with a sushi and raw bar. Paraga Beach Hostel & Camping (+302289025915) provides a restaurant as well.

The bohemian chic hotel San Giorgio (+302289027474) with Cantina restaurant (+302289027474) for organic mediteranian dishes and then the nutorious Scorpios Beach Club (+30228902920).

Paradise (Kalamopodi): Literally a paradise for clubbers and nudists with its beach parties and restaurants. Beach parties at Tropicana club (+302289023582), Guapaloca (+306973016311). For indian cuisine dine at Indian Palace Mykonos (+302289078044, +306940799944) and party until dawn at night club Cavo Paradiso (+302289027205, +306948504989), Greece’s most famous club and one of the main reasons why hundreds of tourists visit Mykonos every summer. You’ll be able to dance to the music of the hottest DJs in the world and each night will transform itself into an unforgettable summer experience.

There is also Scuba diving at Mykonos Diving Center (+302289024808).

Super Paradise (Plintri): Known all over the globe, due to the wild parties and events organized on the sandy beach – very crowded. Here, discover the iconic JackieO‘ (+302289077298), globally famous for its epic parties, cosmopolitan vibe, unique menu and of course the beach bar, for the most delicious cocktails and refreshing drinks.

ZeNIT (+302289087777) is a unique multi space, perfect for conferences, exhibitions, fashion and art events, social and entertainment gatherings. Its services are of the highest of qualities, in a worldwide scale. Of course, you will stay up late and watch the sunrise while you’re dancing at Cavo Paradiso (+302289027205, 6948504989). Lyo Boutique Resort(+302289022535) has its own restaurant.

Platys Gialos: Large, sandy beach surrounded by hotels. It’s well-organized, ideal destination for families. Eat at Avli touThodori (+302289078100), Blue Myth (+302289022127), YialoYialo (+302289078916), Kalua bar (+302289023397), all day pool bar Sueno (+302289025364), family tavern Tassos (+302289023002), Bonatsa (+302289028048) for sushi, DK Oyster Bar & Restaurant (+302289025128) for excellent seafood and champagne on the beach, gourmet Efisia Cine Restaurant (+302289024166) by hotel Myconian Ambassador Manto (+302289024166). On the way to You will find one of the most beautiful Platys Gialos there is Nikos open cinemas in the world at Gallop (+302289024306) with Andronikoustreet, inside a secret meaty dishes and delicasies garden. Lots of interesting presentations, from Crete. documentary viewings and conferences Agrari: A bit isolated, with take place here, while at the Cine Manto café-restaurant you can enjoy cold crystal blue waters. coffee, breakfast and light lunch. (+302289026165,

www.cinemanto.gr)

Bohemian is chilling, friendly to nudists. Eat at Agrari Beach bar and Restaurant (+302289071295).

Elia, beautiful with fine sand, easily accessible and popular. You can have your food served at the beach, at restaurant -beach bar Arte & Mare Suites Hotel (302289072002), Εlia Studios (302289071204), Pavilion restaurant at the casual chic resort Myconian Utopia (+302289076060). For fish dishes check out the luxurious Myconian Imperial (+302289079500).

Kalo Livadi: Beautiful, large and popular sandy beach. Check hip Sol y Μar (+302289071745) dj bar and restaurant with Mediterranean creative cuisine and sushi.

The Lohan Beach House Mykonos (+302289072480) with chef Alsi Sinanaj and traditional recipes with a twist.

Stay at: Pietra Mare (+302289071152), Archipelagos (+302289072012), Sea Side Studios & Houses (+306974807670).

Loulos: Small, beautifull near Kalo Livadi Kalafatis: The surfer’s paradise. The panEuropean Freestyle Windsurf takes place here. Service at the beach at Beach Hotel (+302289071367) and for pizza at Βandanna (+302289071800). For Greek tastes you can visit Nesaea (+302289072130) του «nice n easy». And the new arrival El Aragosta (+302289072710) with italian cuisine.

Agia Anna: A quiet small beach, on the right of Kalafatis, with fine sand. There are deckchairs and umbrellas, beach volley area and a Diving Center. Spilia Seaside Restaurant (+302289071205, +306949449729) for seafood, lobster pasta, all day beach bar restaurant Saint Anna Beach (+306934499888).

Lia: A peaceful beach with sunbeds and umbrellas as well as full catering to every need at beach restaurant Liasti (+302289072150).

Merhias: One of the most remote beaches on the island with thick sand and a deep ocean filled with sea life.

Fokos: Absolutely peaceful with incredible sand. Eat at Fokos tavern (+306945828561) Agios Sostis: Ideal for nudists. Eat at Kiki’s reastaurant.

Ftelia: Amazing waters and sand. Classic choice for Windsurfers and Kitesurfers Dine at Ftelia Castaway for Mediterranean cuisine and breathtaking view (+302289072466).

FARMArestaurant (+302289072361) with exclusivelylocal products. Alemagou beach bar (+302289071339) for meat and seafood.

Panormos: In the past it was visited mainly by locals but over the years it has become popular amongst the general public as well.

Principaute de Mykonos (+302289077184) with creative Mediterranean cuisine and Panormos Mykonos (+302289077184). Stay at Panormos Village (+302289025182), Yakinthos Residence (+302289029183).

SUMMER 2019 _ 71

Santorini Top of the lists

A

Photo:

By Nenela Georgele @diokaminaris / dionisis kaminaris

n island of its own kind, Santorini invariably tops the world’s must-visit lists. Renowned for its natural beauty, revered for its famous, phenomenal, romantic sunsets which make it one of the most popular destinations worldwide for weddings, this complex of islands (Thira, Thirassia, Aspronissi, Palea and Nea Kameni) remains an active volcano, the trademark of Santorini.

The island’s water-filled crater (geological caldera) was formed out of an enormous volcanic eruption which occurred 3,600 years ago, at the height of the Minoan civilization and which destroyed earlier settlements. A giant central lagoon is surrounded by 300 m (980 ft) high, steep cliffs on three sides. The capital, Fira, clings to the top of one of the cliffs, and offers an unforgettable, breathtaking view of the volcano.

According to legend, it is in this area where the mythical kingdom of Atlantis lies. The actual history of Santorini is rich and significant. Excavations in *

72 _ SUMMER 2019

SUMMER 2019 _ 73

EK GREMER SUM

Photo:

the site Acrotiri during the 1960s revealed that Thera was the most important site of Minoan civilization outside Crete. The well preserved ruins of the ancient town are comparable in beauty with those of ancient Pompeii, in Italy.

Other famous archaeological sites include Pyrgos, Karterades, Emporio, Ammoudi, Finikia, Perissa, Perivolos, Megalohori, Kamari, Messaria and Monolithos, and Messa Vouno. Exploring Thirassia is like going back in time. A visit the Museum of Prehistoric Thira, at Fira, is highly advisable and the Lost Atlantis Experience Museum (+302286085076) in Megalohori. Santorini is also famous for its traditional products, the cherry tomatoes, the white eggplants, the fava and the goat cheese, and of course its internationally famous wine varieties. Visit some of the island’s famous wineries which are open to the public.

74 _ SUMMER 2019

@diokaminaris / dionisis kaminaris

Where to swim

The best beaches of the island, Perissa, Perivolos and Ai-Yiorgis, are also the most cosmopolitan and usually overcrowded. At Vlihada, behind the thick rocky “embroidery” spreads a scenery most magnificent. Theros, on the way to Vlihada, resembles of the exotic Bali, while the Red Beach, one of the most beautiful and famous, with its fine red pebble layers and its umbrellas, is a veritable eye candy. On the northern side of the island, there is the Baxedes beach, and the Koloumbos, a more alternative choice for the free-spirited.

Where to stay Municipality: 2286360100 Police Station: 2286022659 Port Authority: 2286028702 Healthcare Center: 2286360300

In Fira, in the heart of the caldera, four-star Loucas Hotel (+302286022480/ 680/ 880) offers rooms and suits with a wonderful view to the sea and sunset of Santorini. Vassalos (+302286081068), in Perissa. Santo Maris Oia Luxury Suites & Spa (+302286600630) is also an *

SUMMER 2019 _ 75

excellent choice. It includes 57 suites and villas, five outdoor pools, an award-winning spa with an indoor heated pool, and the Alios Ilios restaurant - honored at the Greek Cuisine Awards 2019.

Where to eat & drink

Santorini is widely known for its gastronomy and delicious wines, especially the world famous “Asirtiko” variety. On this windswept volcanic isle, the roots of the Assyrtiko variety can go deep in the black, ash-rich soil, giving the resulting wines great minerality.

The most famous restaurant of the island is located at Pirgos village and is called Selini (+302286033349). Right next to it, you can find its “little brother” the more casual Selini Meze and Wine. At the center of the town of Fira, you will find a garden filled with palm trees, flowers and pergolas. Pelican Kipos (+302286023433) is the place to relax and enjoy a coffee, a drink, or a meal at any time of day, while you can also book a wine tasting at its 400 year old vaulted cave - wine cellar.

Visit The Athenian House (+302286036420) at Imerovigli to taste traditional Greek dishes with a modern twist. Dining becomes a

EK GREMER SUM

memorable gastronomical journey throughout different regions of Greece, within the vintage aesthetics of white pure porcelain, Victorian silver cutlery and sparkling crystals.

Enjoy delicious Mediterranean dishes made with the freshest local raw materials, sip your favorite cocktail prepared by expert mixologists and gather your friends for an amazing party on the beach at Yalos Gastronomy by the Sea (Exo Gialos, +302286025816) In Fira, there is Ovac, in Cavo Tango Santorini Hotel. Other great options include Idol and De Paul in Katoikies Garden Hotel.

In Imerovili, check out the cosmopolital Athenian House and the traditional Aktaio.

One of the island’s best is Psaraki (+302286082783) in Vlihada Beach.

In Exo Gonia village, you must visit Aroma Avlis and Metaxi Mas (+302286031323).

In Finikia try Krinaki and in Oia Naos is a must visit along with Canaves Oia. And inside Andronis Boutique Hotel, you must dine at Lauda, by the three-star French chef Emmanuel Renaut.

In the picturesque port of Ammoudi, visit Dimitris (+302286071606). Around the area of Perivolos, there’s the Mr.E (+302286085051) restaurant inside the Istoria hotel.

Nightlife

The village of Fira is the lively centre of nightlife, whereas Oia is more quiet, intimate and romantic. The island’s biggest nightclubs are Ainigma and Koo. You can find fun bars in Fira, like Tango, Momix, Casablanca Soul and the historic Franco’s for classical music. In Oia, there is Hasapiko.

What to do

Photo:

@diokaminaris / dionisis kaminaris

Book a cruise around the island at Spiridakos Sailing Cruises (25th Martiou Str, Fira, +302286023755).

Through the daily cruises, you are offered the perfect Santorini experience, providing guided sailing tours, leisure activities and fine dining paired with local wines.

Explore The Lost Atlantis museum (+302286085076), an experience situated in a unique building that spans 7,500 sq ft, near the village of Megalohori. Here you can learn about the myth of Atlantis, how it is connected to Santorini, experience its destruction and explore multiple digital installations for Atlantis.

Visit the AK Art Galleries (+302286021506) which hosts the work of some of the most significant contemporary Greek artists in four discrete spaces. The AK experience investigates the boundaries between man, nature, light, art and architecture, offering a unique proposal in the plastic arts created in Greece. A labour of love for the top Santorinean artists, Christophoros Asimis, Eleni Kolaitou and Katonas Asimis, the galleries stand out as some of the most significant art spaces of Greece exhibiting works of art internationally acclaimed as finest samples of greek contemporary art.

SUMMER 2019 _ 77

78 _ SUMMER 2019

SUMMER 2019 _ 79

80 _ SUMMER 2019

SUMMER 2019 _ 81

EK GREMER SUM

Paros

A synonym for Greek summer

P

By CHRISTIE PERRY

aros has a great deal more to offer than beautiful beaches, amazing food and luxury resorts. You must discover the 4th century Byzantine church of Panayia Ekatontapiliani in Parikia, along with the ruins of the ancient temple of Apollo and Dilio, the Castle, and the ruins of Asklipiio. The island also offers amazing walks through its Environmental & Cultural Park. An excursion through the road of Parikia to Aliki, next to the river, and into the Valley of Butterflies makes it look like you have entered a fairytale. Aliki’s Folklore Museum, the Dryo, and Kalpaki’s mesmerizing cave with stalactites and stalagmites will satisfy even the most demanding of nature lovers. Finally, we highly recommend Antiparos, Paros’ “little sister” for amazing day-trips and wild nightlife.

82 _ SUMMER 2019

Where to swim

Kolympithres is the most famous and popular beach of Paros, with sculpture-like rocks. Not far from Kolympithres, hidden and almost secluded, lies the beach of Babou, with stubbles running down to the water edge.

Surfers and watersport lovers will love Tsoukalia, the Golden Beach (Chrisi Akti), Pyrgaki and Glyfa Lolantonis, as well as Tserdakia on the southeast of the island. Near Parikia you will swim at Krios, Marcello, Kalokonas and protected by the wind, lies the sandy Souvlia beach, with calm and shallow waters, ideal for children. In Santa Maria you can enjoy watersport facilities and a great beach-bar. At Kalogeros beach you can have a natural beauty routine, covering your body with clay from the rocks. Lageri beach is very friendly to nudists.

Where to stay

Municipality: 2284360100 Police Station: 2284023333 Port Authority: 2284021240 Healthcare Center: 2284024410

Parīlio Hotel (Kolimpithres, Paros www.designhotels.com/ hotels/greece/paros/PARILIO), the latest project of Design HotelsTM Originals Kalia and Antonis Eliopoulos, is a perfect example of authentic luxury. It has been created to represent the best parts of Paros island and live up to the phrase “Cycladic Light Simplicity”. All 33 suites are decorated around the same philosophy: to create cathartic spaces full of light and luxurious comfort for each visitor.

Greek design pieces sit alongside artistic

objects created by well-known European designers and unique ceramics sourced from an innovative North Africa studio can be found all around. If you’re visiting Paros for its sublimely slow-paced way of living, you can choose between the hotel’s pool and sun-drenched deck, the on-site Asian spa or Kolimpithres Beach.

Asteras Paradise (+302284052623, Epar. odos Naousas Marpissas, www.asterasparadise.gr, fb:@asterasparadise) in the heart of cycladic nature, surrounded by blooming gardens and traditional cycladic architecture, this family owned hotel offers a unique holiday experience, combining cycladic tradition with modern facilities. Its location is ideal, as it is a breath away from the most beautiful beaches of the island (a few steps away from Tsoukalia beach) and just 5km away from Naoussa.

Where to eat & drink

If you’re visiting Paros for its unspoiled natural beauty and culinary heritage, then Mr. E restaurant (+30284051000, on the patio of Parilio Hotel) is your best dining choice. You’ll definitely fall in love with its relaxing embrace, while enjoying fresh, seasonal Greek and Mediterranean flavors, expertly created by Chef Alexandros Tsiotinis at any given moment of the day; either it is breakfast time, lunch or dinner.

The best choice for fish dishes at Naousa is

Tsahpinis (+302284051662) and Marios next to it, offering creative cuisine at the old harbour.

A must visit is I Palia Agora, a small coffee place with delightful delicacies.

You can also eat at: Giemeni (+302284051445), is a traditional choice which offers excellent quality food, Kapari (6986195204), Soso (6974878281), Barbarossa (+302284051391), Marmita (+302284051721), Mediteranneo (+302284053176) is a nice choice for fresh fish and really tasty seafood dishes , Umi for sushi, Statheros right next to the sea. The restaurant Thalassa Mou (+302284091461) in Aliki offers a fine dining experience in an ideal setting by the sea.

In Prodromos village you can go to Kallitehniko Kafeneio (+302284042033) and Tsitsanis (+302284041375). On your way to Santa Maria beach, there’s the sophisticated Siparos (+302284052785). At the mountain village Lefkes, check out Lefkianos (+302284028432) to try “gouna”, a local sundried fish dish.

A classic stop at the port before you take the ferry to Antiparos is Thea (+302284091220) with a great wine list. If you are looking for pretty accessories and other house decorations, visit Two’s, interior designer’s Tina Vasilikou concept store in Naousa.

Extra tip

Kapopoulos Fine Arts in Naousa, discover the art of Benoit Pare.

SUMMER 2019 _ 83

84 _ SUMMER 2019

SUMMER 2019 _ 85

EK GREMER SUM

Naxos

Aegean at its finest

By NENELA GEORGELE

N

Š Weefee Photography

axos is one of the biggest Cycladic islands and has literally everything to offer to a curious visitor. From historical sites to golden beaches and the clearest waters you can imagine, it is a perfect destination for holidays with diversity. At the old villages by the seaside, local festivals with traditional music and folklore dances are held every season. Naxos boasts the remnants of Byzantine and Ancient Greek history on its soil. Byzantine churches are scattered across the island, while monasteries and fortified castles have an imposing presence. You must pay a visit to the ruins of the unfinished Temple of Apollo, and walk past the islet of Palatia, where the magnificent site of Portara is located.

Portara offers unforgettable views of the sea and breathtaking sunsets.

Moving around the island gets comfy and easier, as long as you have the Fun Car & Rides (+302285026557) services by your side.

At Protodikiou square.

86 _ SUMMER 2019

Where to swim

Where to eat

No other Cycladic island has so many and beautiful beaches. Ai-Yiorgis, Agios Prokopis and Agia Anna, are all well organized. Leaving Plaka behind, you will find the beautiful and more deserted beaches of Orkos, Mikri and Megali Vigla, Pyrgaki, Kastraki and Alyko. On the northern side of the island you will find Ammitis, Abrami and Agioi Theodoroi. On the east, Psili Ammos, Azalas, Klidos and Panormos.

Where to stay

At Chora Hotel Grotta (+302285022215, +302285022001, www.hotelgrotta.gr), Naxos Resort Hotel (+302285026650, www.naxosresort.gr), Porto Naxos (+3022850 23970, www.portonaxos.gr).

In Agia Anna go to Iria Beach (+302285042600, www.iriabeach-naxos.com), at Plaka Nostos beach (+306944615389, www.nostosnaxos.com), Maistrali (+30228504734), Golden Sand (+302285041653).

Nikos & Maria Studios (+302285042670, +306972722785), the ideal place to experience the uncompromising luxury of relaxation.

Also the camping of Maraga (+3022850 42552, www.maragasbeachnaxos.com).

Police Station: 2285022100 Port Authority: 2285022300 Municipality: 2285360100 Healthcare Center: 2285360500

Eat mediterranean cuisine with local products at new brands Riviera Town (+306970732692), Musique Cafe (+302285027278) and Barozzi bar restaurant (+302285027672). Grab a bite at Irinis (+302285026780), one of the most celebrated tavernas in Chora, by the harbour: traditional cuisine and friendly service. At Stella (+302285062312) and Charis (+302285062266) at Eggares village the best traditional cuisine. The beach bar Banana (+306978733402), the restaurants Island and the Patatosporos are top choices in Agia Anna.

On the road to Plaka, you’ll find Nikos & Maria (+302285042670), a family restaurant that serves the traditional flavors of the island on tables set right on the sandy beach, making your dinner a fascinating experience as the sun dives at sea. If you wish to try Naxian cuisine at its best at Axiotissa (+302285075107) in Kastraki. At the hotel Naxian on the beach eat at Tortuga (+3022850 44300). In Mikri Vigla at Liofagos ask for meatballs. Treat yourself at Waffles House in Chora, at Aktaion in Chora or at the port for ice cream, tarts and cakes, and at Rantevou at the port for delicious coffee, a big variety of sandwiches, try with ham and gruyere cheese of Naxos.

SUMMER 2019 _ 87

Milos

An island from another planet Photo: 88 _ SUMMER 2019

By CHRISTIE PERRY @alex_vovolis / ALEXANDROS D. VOVOLIS

MODEL:

@lefki.kontini / LEFKI KONTINI

EK GREMER SUM

M

ilos is a wonderful island of Cyclades, it is mostly known for the statue of Venus de Milo (Aphrodite). Milos is also the island of lovers, the whole scene looks like a cart postal, beautiful colors, clean crystal waters, sandy beaches, ancient findings and charming taverns. *

SUMMER 2019 _ 89

EK GREMER SUM

Milos is an island with a rich underwater world. Dive in the crystal blue ocean and discover the underwater magical world of Milos island.

PHOTO:

Where to swim

just have to make a call or a reservation via their official website and choose from a large number of rooms and hotels available all around the island, with affordable prices or something more luxurious.

Milos is a volcanic island and it has more than 70 magical, unique beaches. Crystal clear waters, white rocks, a combination of wildness and calmness; you will find both organized and free beaches – if you are more adventurous go to Sarakiniko beach, the most famous in Milos. The entire landscape is formed by volcanic rocks and makes a nice contrast with the deep blue color of the sea. Kleftiko is one of the most photographed beaches with its impressive rocks. Also, swim at the Old Sulfur Mines at Paliorema or the cave of Sykia. Safe options for families are Ammoudaraki with its crystal waters, Agios Ioannis, Achivadolimni on the south side of the island, Papikinou and the organized beach of Phiropotamos.

Where to stay

The travel agency Milos Accomodations (+306973955538) can offer you every service you might require during your stay in Milos. You 90 _ SUMMER 2019

@alex_vovolis / ALEXANDROS D.VOVOLIS

Where to eat

Municipality: 2287360100 Police Station: 2287021204 Port Authority: 2287023360 Healthcare Center: 2287060001

Explore the Aegean’s culinary treasures while watching the wave rippling gently upon the shore at Mikros Apoplous (+302287024207) Its secret: fresh fish brought daily at the sunrise by four local fishermen.

There is also an excellent wine list of bottled and in bulk varieties and some intriguing homemade dessert recipes.

Akrotiri Seafood Obsession (+306976877548) works with the best local fishermen, bringing in fresh seafood and fish on a daily basis, straight from the clear waters of the Greek sea. They are then cooked according to the island tradition, but with a creative twist from the young and ambitious chef * who also owns the place.

SUMMER 2019 _ 91

92 _ SUMMER 2019

SUMMER 2019 _ 93

It would be a particularly unfortunate mistake to visit Milos and skip the amazing restaurant of Alevromilos (+302287023117), located at the area of Parasporos, between Adamantas and Polonia. Alevromilos is proud of its unique cuisine, based on creative dishes from all around the Cyclades, cooked from fresh raw materials and made into fascinating culinary combinations by chef Vasilis Papakinos.

At Paliochoriou beach go to Sirroco (+302287031201). The menu features the best of regional favorites, staple Greek cuisine dishes, fresh fish and seafood as well as excellent quality meat cuts that are skillfully cooked on hot sand, the islanders’ old-fashioned way that makes every flavor an unrivalled experience.

Try the Hanabi Seaside Sushi (+302287041180), for a unique sushi experience by the sea.

Open from early in the morning for coffee and exuberant brunch, Hanabi will suggest classic sushi rolls and some extraordinary signature rolls of the chef, while there is also a powerful fusion kitchen menu.

Treat your appetite at Glaronissia (+302287023480) with authentic regional cooking out of a bountiful menu that compliments the local ingredient treasures.

Taking the wraps off a stunning view of the crystal sea waters, Glaronissia can also be

94 _ SUMMER 2019

EK GREMER SUM

the ideal scenery of social events, such us… your wedding party. At Achivadolimni you must eat at the tavern of the Achivadolimni Camping (+302287031410). In Provata, Tarantella (+302287031346) is a wonderful beach bar & wine restaurant. At the beach of Lagada try medditarenean and Italian tastes, combine pizza with a special cocktail at Aragosta (+302287022292).

Where to have fun

In Milos the atmosphere is really romantic and the bars are closing soon after midnight but you don’t have to worry because there are many other noisy bars around where you can have fun and enjoy your drink or cocktail till the early hours. For jazz nights, cocktails and magical sunrises go to Outopia (+302287023678) at Plaka, also at En Plo (+302287023124) for a romantic full moon moment or an early breakfast with ice cream.

Extra tips

You must visit the Sand Museum and see artworks, paintings and other creations, all made of sand from all over the world with a multitude of colors. Don’t miss out the experience to see from the microscope the magical world of sand. The Geologist Asteris Paplomatas from Thessaloniki has made an excellent work on the art of sand (Plaka,2287023828, www.mysand.gr).

SUMMER 2019 _ 95

96 _ SUMMER 2019

T

raditional cycladic villages make the scenery, pretty beaches complete the perfect image, the church bells provide the soundtrack and you are in for the holidays of your life.

The place to be for foodies due to its spectacular restaurants, sophisticated bars, little shops full of excellent taste and finesse. Tinos is truly the jewel of the Aegean.

Where to go

Panagia of Tinos is a must, as is the red carpet on which pilgrims crawl on their knees on their way to the Virgin Mary church. Tinos is famous for its beautiful villages. Pyrgos has the most unique architecture among all the villages of Cyclades. The abbey of Ursulines at Loutra was founded in 1862 and is worth a visit. The village of Isternia features a grandiose church and a majestic view of the sea. Furthermore: Museum of marble carving (Pyrgos,+302283031290), the House - Museum of Giannoulis Chalepa (Pyrgos,+302283031262) and the Μuseum of contemporary art “Kostas Tsoklis” (Kampos, +302283 051009).

The magnificent blue

EK GREMER SUM

By CHRISTIE PERRY Photo: @ simeonidis_kostas/ Kostas D. Symeonidis

Where to swim

Aghios Fokas is accesible by foot from Chora and further down is Aghios Sostis. The beach of Rocharis near Panormos is organized too.

For peace and quiet try Aghios Petros. Pachia Ammos has huge sand-dunes and clean waters. Apigania is beautiful but not easily accessible. Kolybithra beach is for surf lovers.

Also check the sandy Aghia Eleni beach.

Where to stay

In the heart of Tinos, tradition and history still play an important role and are highly valued by the locals. The same goes for

Municipality: 2283360100 Police Station: 2283022100 Port Authority: 2283022220 Healthcare Center: 2283360000

Tuttiblu Living Space (+306955093535, www. tuttiblu.gr, fb: TuttiBlu Tinos Living Space, Instagram: @tuttiblutinos), a beautiful 18th century house in the picturesque village of Mesi. Each bedroom of the old villa includes a wide open space with its own kitchen and dining room, bathroom and sleeping arrangements while you can also have a delicious, Greek breakfast.

In Chora: Vincenzo Family Rooms (+302283025888, www.vincenzo.gr, fb: Vincenzo Family Hotel), has been open for more than 30 years and will show you exactly what the term “Greek hospitality” means. You can find it at a very central spot of the island, right next to the harbor, the main church and agora. Every room is fully equipped and decorated with a unique and minimal aesthetic, with some traditional brushes here and there. The dominant trait is rock, wood and nature. Inside the absolutely zen space of the jacuzzi pool, you will forget even what century you live in.

In Agios Fokas: Golden Beach (+302283022579), right next to the beach.

Where to eat

Thalassaki (+302283031366) is a spectacular choice, in an amazing spot right in front of the sea. By the sea and inside a very green yard, there is Aithrio o Markos (+302283023033). In Agios Fokas you will find Marathia (+302283023249). In Kardiani there is Dinos (+302283031673) for fish and friendly staff. It’s best to have made a reservation before visiting. Check out the traditional café of Kira Eleni (+302283051409) for homemade dishes and the best fried bread you will ever taste.

Perivoli (+306945987460) has a shady veranda with a breathtaking view, delicious dishes and a spectacular orange pie.

Where to have fun

Mayiou All Day Bar (+302283031882, Fb: MAYOU All-

*

SUMMER 2019 _ 97

EK GREMER SUM

with “stroflia” (traditional raki), tsipouro or ouzo. Make sure you try Mama Poppi’s sweets.

The last owner recently renovated the place, combining tradition with newness.

Kalais aperitivo allday (+302283051212, fb: Καλάις, insta: kalais_allday) kalais_allday). For the most amazing morning coffee, homemade liquers and RENT sweets, brochettes with local A CAR products, interesting drinks and You can rent a car or a bike special cocktails. Check it out from the wide variety of vehicles by before you take a dive at the the family business Vidalis Rent famous beach of Kolibithra and a Car (+302283023400). Kind and always happy to help, they will deliver or take come back at night, after a back the car from your hotel room, relaxing stroll of the island. You without any extra charge. They simply must try the artichoke have four different offices cake, along with artichoke iceon the island so it won’t cream. Yes, really. be hard to locate Kaktos is perfect for a more ethnic them atmosphere and a glass of mojito with the most breathtaking view. (+302283025930). In Sunset bar (+306940965994, 6943539968, Instagram: sunsetbar_tinos, Facebook: sunsetbar.tinos) the wide variety of classic and signature cocktails and the sophisticated wine list combined with the fresh, homemade sushi are all ready to offer you an unforgettable experience. Enjoy the amazing Aegean view and the spectacular sunsets. #live_the_experience, #the_top_of_the_Aegean

Where to shop PHOTO:

@mysterrika / ERRIKA ROUSSOU

day Bar). Open from 10:30 in the morning for coffee and breakfast until late at night with creative signature cocktails. It will lift your spirits with exquisite dishes, juices, homemade sweets and mouth watering pizza.

Don’t miss the festival Mind The View (27/8-1/9) with art exhibitions, live and dj sets.

The brand new Athmar (+306936621441, fb: Athmar Tinos) is determined to serve you the most delicious food the island has to offer, in its most modern version. A charming café at the stair s of Pirgos village, which will remind you what Greek summer really means. The drinks menu has been taken care of by the 360° coktail bar Athens team, drawing inspiration from local products and traditions.

La Dama Music & Spirits (+306980350902, fb: La Dama Music & Spirits, insta: ladamabar) is not just the meeting point of Tinos. It’s a bar that will make your nights more colorful. Unusual and fun, La Dama Music & Spirits is famous for its awesome music, dj sets, and surprising cocktails that will make you taste greek summer in your glass. Stylish and cosmopolitan, with a minimal entrance based on white and wood. You can also enjoy your drink at the terrace, while gazing at the stars.

At the historic square of Pirgos village, check out Megalos Kafenes (+3022830031647) which is a century old, a traditional café from the old days. It will welcome you in the early morning hours for Greek coffee and breakfast. It will serve you traditional recipes every afternoon and night and mezedes you can accompany 98 _ SUMMER 2019

The shop “tis Margaritas” (Pyrgos, +306974282676, www.tismargaritas.gr) might seem small, but it hides big surprises inside. Here you can find cosmetics as well as delicacies by the purest materials without any artificial. Everything you see here looks like it’s been made out of centuries of artistic tradition. Entering the store, you will instantly travel amongst herbs, colors and aromas that awaken the senses and spread smiles. Delicious marmalades (you have to try the orange-chocolate flavor), dizzying liquors, aroma soaps, are just a few of the amazing things Margarita makes herself.

In Armonia (+302283031710, 2283026663, fb: Armonia concept, Instagram: @armonia_concept) the word “harmony” represents the owner’s philosophy and aesthetic. Evi Athanasopoulou designs clothes and accessories of the highest of quality, in complete harmony with nature. In Armonia’s minimal spaces you will be able to find unique pieces made from scratch, designed by herself, as well as accessories by other famous Greek designers. The fabrics are made of silk, cotton and baby, without any synthetic materials. A great value-for-money choice which will uplist the personal style of every woman.

Also visit Texnotropes (+302283023146, fb: Texnotropes, insta: texnotropes_tinos), where interior designer Katerina Markouizou knows how to make unique clothes, special accessories and other design products. She has been partnering with some of the most famous brands for years such as Arpyes Handmade Shoes, Thinking Mu, Rut&Circle, Soft Rebels, Peace and Chaos, Vissla Surf, Urban Owl, Laouta, Prigipo and many more. You will find it open until midnight, every summer night.

Tuttiblu Tinos Living Space

A three centuries tradition House

M

ainland Tinos still values tradition and history. The locals go to great lengths to preserve their tradition and their history.

Tuttiblu Tinos Living Space is a house of the 18th century that respects both tradition and history in the small, picturesque village of Messi, in up-country Tinos Island. A guest house that dates from 1786 and its owners had it renovated with absolute respect to the distinctive vernacular architectural style of Tinos. A traditional stoned house, one of the first built in Messi, is situated in the middle of the village’s central square.

Each individual living space features a fully equipped kitchenette and dining room, independent bathroom and sleeping area. The amenities provided include, amongst others, constant hot water and under-floor heating for use throughout the year (state-of-art environmentally friendly technology), free wireless and cable connection to the internet, TV, as well as the provision of Greek breakfast (optional), created using local produce from the farmers of the area.

The position of the house, as well as the philosophy of the island itself, encourages visitors to engage with a series of activities that can compose an integrated experience for them. Apart from swimming in the crystal clear and fresh waters of the Aegean in nearby virgin beaches such as Santa Margarita, Lychnaftia, Livada, Pachia Ammos (15’-30’ drive) such activities may include hiking in the many preserved traditional footpaths, mountaineering, visiting the numerous picturesque small churches, the traditional vineyards and wineries, as well as participation in agricultural activities such as grape harvesting, spirit distilling and others. Finally, the excellent and pure local products and ingredients, in combination with the artistry of the Tinian cooks, have established the island as a proud gastronomic destination.

Tuttiblu Tinos Living Space is the ideal holiday destination for people who appreciate tradition and who would like to experience living in a 19th century environment with the amenities of the 21st. It is an ideal holiday destination for all seasons since it welcomes visitors all year round.

Messi, Tinos, +306955093535, www.tuttiblu.gr, fb: TuttiBlu Tinos Living Space, Instagram: @tuttiblutinos

SUMMER 2019 _ 99

Syros

Stately beautiful

© CHRISTIE PERRY

By CHRISTIE PERRY

T

he capital of the Cycladic islands will conquer your heart very early on during your stay there. Syros hides amazing treasures in every street corner and is the perfect place to visit and explore if you are looking for something different in your Greek holidays. Pastel colors, amazing architecture that will probably remind you or a rich Italian city, art festivals all year round, castles, towers, horses, mermaids and haunted houses. But also countless of amazing beaches with clear water and sparkly sand. You will fall in love with it and come back next summer.

Where to swim

© CHRISTIE PERRY

© CHRISTIE PERRY

Agathopes is the most popular and cosmopolitan choice, fully organized and large enough for it not to feel too crowded. There you will find beach bar De La Gracia, a new arrival promising to give you the most positive summer vibes. The Ono Concept beach bar will keep you company from morning til night, with its countless services. For a more “hippy” situation, visit Comito beach. Another original choice is Abela, with its Don’t miss perfectly clear waters the 4 creative and an amazing writing seminars held taverna right next to

by Mikro Politexnio. it. If there are Get informed and book children in your your place at group, the most +302103252998 and +302103243306. secure choices are Megas Gialos Gialos, Vari and Galissas Galissas. The most perfect combination is a long swim at Kini beach and then lunch or early dinner at Allou Yialou restaurant. If you feel like not leaving the town of Ermoupolis, an amazing experience awaits at Vaporia where you can swim in the open sea while staring at neoclassic buildings and feeling like you’re in Venice.

100 _ SUMMER 2019

Where to stay

En Ermoupoli (+30281085789, www.enermoupoli.gr): Amazing rooms to let, right next to the main square in Ermoupolis and with a harbour view. You will stay in a beautiful classic building of 1908, recently renovated, with suites and regular rooms available.

Diogenis Hotel, in a 19th century building (+30281086301). The traditional Paradise (+30281083204), right in the centre of the city. Find Syrou Melathron in the more “rich” area of Ermoupolis (www.syroumelathron.gr). 100 meters away from the harbor you will find Palladion (+30281086400).

Esperance rooms (www.esperance.gr, fb: Esperance Rooms) are an excellent city choice. They are located at the city harbour, a breath away from the center and have 8 twobedroom rooms avaible.

Extremely clean, nicely decorated, equiped with air-conditioning, TV, phone and WIFI, a fridge and everything else you might need for your vacation.

In Azolimnos try Anemelia (+302281063000), where you can relax in well-equipped studios and apartments. Don’t forget to taste their homemade jam.

Where to eat

De La Gracia is an amazing choice, with lounge music and beautiful decoration, perfect for a great cup of coffee first thing in the morning, brunch with unique menu suggestions and a wide list of refreshing smoothies before the first swim of the day.

Then you can sunbathe to your heart’s content while lying on one of the comfortable sea beds available. The restaurant has an extremely well thought menu filled with meat and fish dishes and creative recipes.

And of course you simply must give Allou Yialou a try, the most popular tavern of the island on the beach of Kini which has been keeping costumers satisfied for more than a decade. Fish so fresh

it melts in your mouth, a separate menu just for traditional Greek cuisine by awarded chef Lina Fournistaki, dishes full of imagination and combinations you would never think by yourself.

Iliovasilema is an epic restaurant in Galissas, combining traditional tastes with the imagination of chef Kostas Bougiouris.

In Ermoupolis, also search for Peri Tinos (+30281043325) and Lilis (+30281088087) in Ano Syros. And of course, D’Jango Gelato (+30281076660) for one of the best ice cream experiences of your life. Yes, really. Fresh materials, unique flavors and a result so delicious you will get a bit desperate thinking “this is not going to be enough, I must have more”. Don’t forget to try chocolate chilly and the fig sorbet.

A truly magical store in Syros’ agora is Prekas where you can find anything you heart (and stomach) desires from the traditional Loukoumi and Chalvadopita, to unique delicacies you will only be able to taste here, made by the amazing Kostas Prekas and his team. The delicious smells and vibrant colors cannot be contained in boxes and bottles but you can certainly take them with you back home that way. You simply must try some of the Prekas original products such as the fennel pesto, the dried tomatoes, the fig marmalade with pieces of pasteli and an amazing “hybrid” (he calls it a “sweet marriage”) of pasteli and chalvadopita.

What is particularly interesting is Prekas’ new collection of glasses called “A Piece of History of Hermoupolis and Syros”, containing the last authentic creations of “O Ermis”, the very first laboratory of the Greek glass industry, which was founded in Syros back in 1870.

Where to have fun

Kouchico (+30281300880), in the city for the best cocktails and amazing music choices.

Ellinikon Kafeneion for traditional Greek coffee and recipes with a modern take. Ciel Bar Restaurant (+30281302321) is the new hot spot in town, in Vaporia beach. In Agathopes you will find Ono Concept, (+30281045099, www.ono. gr), right above the cosmopolitan beach for an amazing morning coffee, delicious food (with brunch, lunch and dinner menu) and a sophisticated wine list. Every dish combines different cultures and food groups with undying Greek memories. In a small corner of Ermoupolis there is Mandrakoukos Syrianos (+30281076569) which looks like an old island villa but is actually an amazing bar and café. Enjoy your coffee and brunch during the day and come back at night for signature cocktails and the hottest bands and musicians around.

Municipality: 2281361000, 2281382118 Police Station: 2281096100 Port Authority: 2281088888 Hospital: 2281360500

Extra tip

Syros is big enough for you to have a ride. Call Maistrali (+302281043675 to rent a new car or bike or book online at www.maistraligroup.gr.

SUMMER 2019 _ 101

Skiathos

Nature has been extremely bountiful on Skiathos, a cosmopolitan “paradise” in the Northern Sporades.

By REGINA FILOGLOU - Photo:

102 _ SUMMER 2019

@katerinakatopis / KATERINA KATOPIS-LYKIARDOPULO

T

he transparency of its light blue waters and its vast pine forests that blanket the hilltops create fascinating contrasts that attract thousands of young visitors. Alexandros Papadiamantis, one of Greece’s most celebrated novel writers and most influential figures of the international intellect, was born and raised here.

Skiathos’s architecture is an inspiring blend of the eastern-central Greece architecture of Pelio, the island village architecture and neoclassical elements. The city of Skiathos, Chora, resting on the ruins of the ancient city, cascades down the surrounding hills to the old port; the sight is almost magical at night under the glimmer of the lights.

Walking around its narrow pebble-mosaic streets you’ll find beautiful squares and the house of Alexandros Papadiamantis. Today a museum (mouseiopapadiamanti.blogspot. com) dedicated to the life of the writer, the house, built in 1860, is located in a narrow dead-end street by the eastern coast of the city.

The landmark of Skiathos however is Bourtzi, a small, overwhelming with pine trees, peninsula that separates the port of Skiathos in two. From the fort of Bourtzi the Skiathians repulsed the Turks in 1823. Today, a cultural centre is operating within the site of the old fort, including conference rooms and a summer theatre that hosts theatrical and musical performances every summer.

The Castle (Kastro) is located on the northern part of the island. To reach the Castle, you can either drive a 4x4 vehicle or walk the gravel road, but it is definitely worth the walking. From the walls and cannons that once protected the settlement from the pirates only the cannon of Anagia is saved.

The churches and monasteries of Skiathos reflect the island’s religious traditions. At the Monastery of Panayia Ikonistria, a miraculous icon of the Holy Mother is kept.

Where to swim

Skiathos has a pristine stretch of sapphire beaches with the most famous being Koukounaries, an endless sandy beach, surrounded by pine trees and with the Strofilia wetland nearby. Megali Ammos with its crystal clear waters and its ouzotaverns is equally appreciated and easily accessible by car or the local bus.

Vassilias beach has its own significant history. Byzantine emperors preferred these waters for their recreational holidays. At Ahladies you’ll find almost all conveniences, from the umbrellas and the sun-beds to a variety of water sports.

At Kalamaki Kape, there are Sklithri and Tzaneria beaches, with huge shady plane trees and taverns, and a mesmerizing moon during summer nights.

The pine trees at Kolio, Agia Paraskevi and Troulos beaches reach down the water edge.

Municipality: 2427350100 Police Station: 2427021111 Port Authority: 2427022017 Healthcare Center: 2427022222

If you are up to more crowded and intense experiences, Ampelakia and Banana beaches would be your top choice. A lush green surrounding, all kind of sports activities, taverns, coffee-bars, young crowds, create an exciting scene of non-stop day and night fun.

For more “peace and quiet” drop your towel at Agia Eleni, Mandraki or Aselinos, at the north side of the island.

If you feel like hiking, the road to Kehria and the beach right under the Castle will prove extremely compensating.

You’ll visit Lalaria only by boat, and relax on the pebbles of Trypia Petra, Hanemos and Tsougkrias.

Where to stay

Embraced by a scenic grove of olive trees and pine trees on the beautiful bay of Kanapitsa, the Plaza Hotel (+302427021971) offers exquisite accommodation and a quick access to Achladies beach. The four-star Atrium Hotel at Agia Paraskevi, Platanias (+302427049345), is built on a pine covered hillside, 9 klm. from Chora and right above the magnificent sandy beach of Agia Paraskevi.

The Mandraki Village (+302427049301), at Koukounaries, one step away from the island’s legendary beach, exudes a luxurious and relaxing aura. Experience fine dining at the Elia’s Restaurant and enjoy your breakfast, cocktails, snacks and drinks by the pool at the White Bar and the White Barbeque. Indulge yourself in a most exclusive all-suite summer stay of unrivalled privacy, uninterrupted sea views and traditional elegance at the Aegean Suites (+302427024066), on Megali Ammos.

Where to eat & drink

One of the best restaurants on the island is Carnayo (2427022868) with a variety of selected Mediterranean dishes that combine the quality of ingredients with insuperable flavor and elegant presentation. Along with its staple dishes of fresh seafood, you’ll try excellent meat, tempting pastas and a plethora of appetizers. The vegetables and herbs used are from the restaurant’s biogarden. For the regional favorites with creative twists you’ll go at Salt&Pepper (+302427049329), at Troulos. The picturesque green RENT and blooming floral A CAR surrounding adds extra points.

If you need a car to move The Elia’s Restaurant, in the around the island we Mandraki Village Hotel, gets recommend Avance Rent A Car high scores for its unique (www.avance.gr ) dishes of Mediterranean cuisine and its elegant atmosphere.

A taste of pure Greek culinary tradition awaits you at Chora, at the Bakaliko tis Paralias (+302427022669) with the lovely old-fashioned décor that resembles a grocery store of past decades. Popular for its fresh fish and seafood dishes – you should * SUMMER 2019 _ 103

104 _ SUMMER 2019

SUMMER 2019 _ 105

EK GREMER SUM

PHOTO:

@katerinakatopis / KATERINA KATOPIS - LYKIARDOPULO

106 _ SUMMER 2019

definitely try the fried shrimps. Strolling down the old port, treat yourself some ouzo and tsipouro delicacies at Kampourelia (+302427021112). A visit at Ergon “deli and cuisine” store (+302427021441) gives inspiring gift ideas as it features a wide range of artisanal Greek products, while its menu includes dishes made exclusively of these products. A combination of traditional recipes and contemporary Greek cuisine that leans passionately on the use of fresh, local ingredients, is what you’ll find at the beautiful restaurant of Marmita (+302427021701), situated in a traditional Skiathian house with a wonderful garden of trees and flowers on the lively Papadiamanti street at Chora. The Borsoi (+302427023605), the legendary club restaurant of Skiathos is refurbished and ready to make a “loud” come-back. The club on the inside hosts some of the island’s most exciting dj sets, while out at the courtyard of the old oil press factory there is the lovely restaurant and a cool bar serving masterful cocktails. You will enjoy your coffee, drink or an expertly made cocktail at Marilyn’s (+306957839614) dazzled by the astonishing view of the old port and the Bourtzoi. Kentavrosis is the “old time classic” of the island playing some old time classic rock tunes, while Danny & Zoe’s Blind Dog (+306942801317) prefers a “compilation” of musical trends along with refreshing cocktails – a blind little dog is its mascot!

SUMMER 2019 _ 107

108 _ SUMMER 2019

SUMMER 2019 _ 109

I

H

G

F

E

D

C

B

A

1

2

3

4

5

6

7

8

9

10

11

12

13

Q

P

O

N

M

L

K

J

I

I

H

G

F

E

D

C

B

A

14

15

16

17

18

19

20

21

22

23

24

25

26

Q

P

O

N

M

L

K

J

I

Emergency Numbers

Hospitals

Aiport Police +302103536919 Coast Guard 108 ELPA (roadside assistance) 10400 Fire Service 199 Hospitals, Doctors, Pharmacies Info 14944 Police 100 SOS Doctors 1016 Tourist Police 171 Traffic Police +302105230111 Ambulance service 166 Emergency Police 100 Fire Service 199 Greek Railways OSE 14944

Accident Hospitals Asklipieio Voulas 1 Vassileos Pavlou str.,Voula, +302132163000 KAT 2 Nikis str., Kifissia, +302106280000 Public General Hospitals Evangelismos 45-47 Ipsilantou str., Evangelismos, +302132041000 Geniko Kratiko-Gennimatas 154 Mesogion str., Ethniki Amyna, +302132032000 Ippokratio 114 Vas. Sofias str., Ambelokipi, +302132088000 Laiko 17 Agiou Thoma str., Ambelokipi, +302132060800 Tzanio Afentouli & 1 Tzani str., Piraeus, +302132081000 Public Children’s Hospitals Agia Sofia Thivon & Papadiamandopoulou str., Goudi, +302132013000 Aglaia Kyriakou Thivon & Levadias str., Goudi, +302132009000 Maternity Hospitals Alexandra 80 Vas. Sofias str., Megaro Moussikis, +302132162000 Elena Venizelou Elena Venizelou sq. 2, Ambelokipi, +302106432220 Iaso 37-39 Kifisias str., +302106184000 Leto 7-13, Mouson str. ,+302106902000 Mitera Kifissias & 6 Erithrou Stavrou str., +302106869000

Piraeus Port

Authority +302104593000 Rafina Port Authority +302294023605 Lavrio Port Authority +302292025249 Eleftherios Venizelos 14944 International Airport +302103530000 114 _ SUMMER 2019

Embassies Albania 7 Vekiareli str., Filothei, +302106876200 Australia 1-3 Kifissias str., +302108704000 Austria 4 Vas. Sofias str., +302107257270 Belgium 3 Sekeri str., Kolonaki, +302103617886 Bulgaria 33A Stratigou Kallari str., Psyhiko, +302106748106 Canada Ioannou 4 Gennadiou str., +302107273400 Cyprus Xenofontos 2A,+302103734800 Czech Republic 6 Seferi str., Psyhiko, +302106719701 Denmark 10 Mourouzi str., +302107256440 France 7 Vas.Sofias str., +302103391000 Germany Karaoli & Dimitriou 3 str., Kolonaki,

+302107285111 Romania 7 Em. Benaki Hungary 25 Karneadou str., Psyhiko, str., Kolonaki, +302106728875 +302107256800 Russia 28 Nikiforou China 2A Krinon str., Lytra str., Psyhiko, Psyhiko, +302106723282 +302106725235 Ireland 5-7 Vas. Serbia 106 Vas. Sofias Konstantinou str., str., +302107774344 +302107232771 Slovakia 4 Georgiou Israel 1 Seferi str., Psyhiko, Marathonodromon str., +302106771980 Psyhiko, +302106705500 South Africa 60 Kifissias Italy 2 Sekeri str., str., Marousi, Kolonaki, +302103617260 +302106106645 Japan Ethnikis Spain 21 Dionysiou Antistaseos str., Areopagitou str., +302106709900 +302109213123 Netherlands 5-7 Vas. Sweden 7 Vas. Konstantinou str., Konstantinou str., +302107254900 +302107266100 Norway 23 Vas. Sofias Switzerland 2 Iasiou str., str., +302107246173 +302107230364 Poland 22 Turkey 8 Vas.Georgiou Chrysanthemon str., str., +302107263000 Psyhiko, +302106797700 UK 1 Ploutarhou str.,