60 Years of Electra: True to οur values, committed to the future
Dear Guests,
At Electra Hotels & Resorts, hospitality is a relationship built on trust, consistency and respect – a relationship we’ve nurtured for six decades. As we mark our 60th anniversary in Greek tourism, we reflect with pride on a journey shaped by enduring values, and look ahead with a renewed sense of responsibility. Guided by the founding principles that defined our beginnings, we move forward with clarity and purpose in an era of both profound challenges and exciting possibilities.
Our story began in 1965, with the opening of the first Electra hotel on Ermou Street in the heart of Athens. Since then, our growth has been steady and deliberate, guided by a core belief in quality, integrity and collective responsibility. Today, as the hospitality industry evolves more rapidly than ever, these values remain our unwavering compass.
This landmark year is also a moment of transformation. We are implementing an ambitious strategic renewal plan, designed to elevate the Electra experience while honoring our legacy. Leading this change is the redesigned Electra Rhythm Athens, a complete reimagining of our Ermou flagship, now reintroduced with a bold, contemporary vision. Major upgrades are also underway across several properties, including Electra Palace Athens in Plaka and Electra Rhodes, while a new hotel is being developed in the heart of Thessaloniki.
At the same time, the Group is undergoing a comprehensive rebranding process, a fresh reinterpretation of our identity, aligned with the evolving needs of the modern traveler. More than a visual refresh, this transformation is a systematic enhancement of our operational practices, ensuring that the Electra philosophy is present in every aspect of the guest experience.
At the core of this evolution lies our unwavering commitment to responsible and sustainable hospitality. Our ESG strategy is fully integrated in our business model, driving initiatives that prioritize people, society and the environment. For us, excellence is inseparable from care for the world around us.
The recognition we have received – including being named a “Great Place to Work” and earning the CRI GOLD Award, with a Special Mention for Employee Excellence – reflects this culture. Hospitality, in our view, begins with our people and is reflected in every guest we welcome.
As we look to the future, we remain true to the values that have defined us for six decades. With confidence and integrity, we continue building a hospitality legacy rooted in authenticity and a sustainable vision for the future of Greek tourism.
Yiannis A. Retsos CEO of Electra Hotels and Resorts
Three vintage posters from past decades that are featured in the exhibition of the National Historical Museum
EXPERIENCE
22
Selected
30 ELECTRA
A historic hotel of Athens returns, radically renewed. Electra Rhythm Athens reintroduces itself on Ermou Street.
38 ATHENS X 10
Ten walks, one city – ancient yet modern, and always surprising
* The exhibition is currently on view through October 31 at the National Historical Museum’s branch in Hydra, in the historic Lazaros Kountouriotis Mansion. nhmuseum.gr
Basil-scented courtyards, ancient ruins scattered in the sun, windmills turning in the breeze, whitewashed chapels, donkeys on cobbled paths, and open-air theaters steeped in myth – for over a century, these have formed the visual vocabulary of Greece in the global imagination. Although the country’s first official tourism body was founded in 1929 under the government of Eleftherios Venizelos, it wasn’t until the postwar 1950s, amid sweeping societal transformation, that Greece began to systematically invest in cultural infrastructure, landmark festivals and destination branding. “The years between 1950 and 1965 represent the golden era of the Greek National Tourism Organization,” says Iphigenia Vogiatzi, Curator of Permanent Exhibitions at the National Historical Museum. Three rare posters from this pivotal per-iod, featured in the museum’s exhibition “Advertising Greece: The Early Days of Greek Tourism,” offer a fascinating glimpse into the country’s evolving identity through iconic monuments in Athens, Thessaloniki, and Rhodes.
Tourism brochure for Thessaloniki featuring the White Tower. January 1957.
ICONS
The Greek National Tourism Organization’s collaborations with leading architects and artists resulted in a visually rich, multidisciplinary output that has left a lasting imprint not only on the history of Greek tourism but also on the cultural landscape itself. One striking example is the 1962 poster designed by Michalis Katzourakis: a shuttered Athenian window with a black-andwhite photograph of the Parthenon and the Odeon of Herodes Atticus. The photo was taken by renowned photographer Dimitris Charisiadis (1911-1993), who documented Greece during the years of occupation and postwar reconstruction with a rare clarity and depth.
WOMEN’S AND MEN’S READY-TO-WEAR, SHOES & BAGS, SCARVES, RESORT WEAR, HOME & CHOCOLATE
ICONS
An earlier poster from April 1954 – signed simply “Nenna C.” – showcases the Acropolis of Lindos in Rhodes. “The Dodecanese islands, which had only recently been annexed to Greece, were among the few areas with developed tourism infrastructure, much of it inherited from the Italian occupation,” explains Iphigenia Vogiatzi, Curator of Permanent Exhibitions of the National Historical Museum. “Unlike much of the mainland, they had also been spared the destruction of war.”
Acropolis of Lindos. Unknown artist. April 1954.
A Scent of Memory
neon.org.gr
ART CALENDAR
The exhibition Allspice | Michael Rakowitz & Ancient Cultures presents the work of the Iraqi-American artist, whose work explores the intersections of cultural heritage, politics and diasporas. Inspired by his mother Yvonne’s handwritten Iraqi recipes, Rakowitz discovered that allspice – the fragrant, warming spice – was often used as a substitute for missing ingredients. This culinary detail became for him a powerful metaphor for loss and longing, particularly as experienced by displaced communities. Using materials such as newspaper, food packaging and compressed paper, the artist recreates looted archaeological artifacts, attempting to piece together a fractured past. The exhibition places his politically charged works alongside original antiquities from the Middle East and the southeastern Mediterranean, opening a conversation around absence, memory and the resilience of cultural identity.
Until 31/10, Acropolis Museum, 15 Dionysiou Areopagitou, theacropolismuseum.gr, neon.org.gr
Marlene Dumas Across Time
“An artist is an artist because of other artists,” declares noted South African painter Marlene Dumas – a statement that welcomes visitors to “Marlene Dumas: Cycladic Blues,” her powerful exhibition at the Museum of Cycladic Art. It sets the tone for a show that explores how ancient art continues to echo through contemporary expression. Dumas’ provocative, sensual and fragmented figures enter into dialogue with 14 antiquities from the museum’s permanent collections: from Neolithic figurines and abstract marble idols of the Cycladic Bronze Age to classical sculptures from the Aegean and Cyprus. With its bold juxtapositions, the exhibition becomes a study of influence, memory and the shared language of the human form across millennia. Until 2/11, Museum of Cycladic Art –Stathatos Mansion, Vasilissis Sofias & 1 Irodotou, cycladic.gr
Tetsis’ Greece
To mark the centenary of Panayiotis Tetsis’ birth, the National Gallery is presenting “The Obsession of the Gaze,” a sweeping retrospective featuring 160 works, including paintings, engravings, watercolors and pastels. Drawing influence from Konstantinos Parthenis, the Generation of the ’30s, and the French Post-Impressionists and Fauvists, Tetsis developed a deeply personal language that celebrated light and color in all their vitality. The exhibition is organized into thematic sections spanning more than six decades of creative output. Street markets; the rocky shores and luminous landscapes of Hydra and Sifnos; shipyards; pine trees; footballers; friends; and cliffs are transformed by his instinctive sense of rhythm and palette. A towering figure in modern Greek art, Tetsis remained devoted to representational painting, refusing to follow fleeting trends yet still constantly renewing his vision. His work continues to inspire generations of artists who find in his work both a reverence for tradition and an unrelenting pursuit of light.
Until 31/10, National Gallery, 50 Vasileos Konstantinou, nationalgallery.gr
Kindred Spirits
The exhibition “Pericles and Dico Byzantios | Painting Affinities and Contrasts” explores the work of two important Greek painters, father and son, in a show that highlights their shared references and their aesthetic divergence. Pericles Byzantios (1893–1972), shaped by the French artistic tradition of his time, created scenes suffused with Greek light and clarity. His son Dico (1924–2007), who also settled in Paris, embraced a more gestural abstraction, channeling the spirit of postwar Europe through bold color, movement and a personal visual language. Their approaches differed, but there was a profound connection between their artistic worlds, a quiet resonance between generations united by spiritual intensity and creative sensitivity.
Until 21/09, B & M Theocharakis Foundation for the Fine Arts & Music, 9 Vasilissis Sofias & 1 Merlin, thf.gr
για πρώτη φορά», σε επιμέλεια Γιώργου Χατζημιχάλη με τη συνεργασία του Λεωνίδα Εμπειρίκου, συμπίπτει με τα 50 χρόνια από τον θάνατο του υπερρεαλιστή δημιουργού και παρουσιάζει αυθεντικές εκτυπώσεις από το 1952 έως
Έως 12/09, Eleftheria Tseliou Gallery, Τοσίτσα 3 (2ος
tseliougallery.com Διακριτικές
Through the Eyes of Embiricos
Andreas Empeirikos, one of Greece’s foremost poets, novelists and thinkers, is revealed anew, this time as a photographer. The exhibition “Andreas Embiricos: Photographs never shown before,” curated by artist Yorgos Hadjimichalis in collaboration with Leonidas Embiricos, brings together 38 images, most of them never before displayed in public. Andros, the island of his ancestry and a recurring presence in his literary world – from “The Great Eastern” to his surrealist prose – emerges here as a visual muse. Using different cameras over the years, Embirikos captured daily life, landscapes and portraits, not only on Andros but also in other places he lived or visited, including Athens, Mykonos, Corfu and Paris. Presented on the 50th anniversary of his death, the exhibition offers original prints of photos taken between 1952 and 1962.
Until 12/09, Eleftheria Tseliou Gallery, 3 Tositsa (2nd floor), tseliougallery.com
Subtle Interventions
The Alekos Fassianos Museum is launching “Contemporary Intervention,” a program inviting contemporary Greek artists to engage with the work of Alekos Fassianos. The current exhibition, “Fluttering of the Line,” features installations and sculptures by Panos Prophetis. His aim is to create bridges, quiet crossings between forms, meanings and artistic languages. “I sensed points of contact,” Prophetis says, “like crossroads where everything converged.”
Until 14/09, Alekos Fassianos Museum, 15 Neofytou Metaxa, alekosfassianos.gr
15, alekosfassianos.gr
at the Greek National Opera
The Greek National Opera is opening its new season with La Gioconda, the opera by Amilcare Ponchielli, in a major co-production with the Royal Opera House in London and the Salzburg Easter Festival. Directed by Oliver Mears, the production is set in present-day Venice and highlights not only the charged collisions between characters but the timeless resonance of the story as well. A landmark of late Romantic opera, La Gioconda is renowned for its sweeping arias, the famous Dance of the Hours, and its rich emotional intensity. In the title role, acclaimed dramatic soprano Anna Pirozzi leads a stellar cast.
19, 22, 25, 29/10 & 1, 4, 7/11 Greek National Opera – Stavros Niarchos Foundation Cultural Center, 364 Syngrou, nationalopera.gr
nationalopera.gr
La Gioconda
AΘΗΝΑ / ATHENS
Τα
Animal Rights on Display
Dogs sent into space, hamsters used in vaccine trials, snakes turned into handbags: the exhibition “A Case for the Rights of Non-Human Lives” casts a critical eye on the systemic exploitation and abuse of animals in the modern world. Featuring works by 60 artists from 25 countries, the exhibition – curated by Katerina Gregos, Artistic Director of the National Museum of Contemporary Art (EMST) – challenges the anthropocentric worldview that reduces animals to commodities and spectacle. Through a wide range of powerful visual narratives, the show advocates for the recognition of animal rights and draws attention to the environmental dimension of the issue, highlighting the idea that justice for non-human life is inseparable from climate justice and the sustainability of our planet.
Until 15/02/2026, National Museum of Contemporary Art (EMST), Kallirrois & Amvrosiou Frantzi, emst.gr
τις καταιγιστι-
benaki.org
A Different Kind of Vision
A new generation of artists from Greece and Cyprus imagines the future in “In a Bright Green Field,” the third collaboration between the DESTE Foundation, New York City’s New Museum and the Benaki Museum. Featuring 27 artists under the age of 40, the exhibition responds to the rapid transformations in labor and the natural environment brought on by technological acceleration. At the same time, it highlights emerging forms of collectivity – both urban and rural – that suggest alternative ways of living and creating together. Encompassing painting, sculpture, experimental video and participatory practices, the exhibition maps out possible futures through a diverse and critical lens.
Until 13/09, Benaki Museum –Pireos 138, Pireos & Andronikou, benaki.org
Clashing with the Old World
The exhibition “Universal War. Τhe artistic Avantgarde on the World War Ι front. Works from the Costakis collection” explores the rupture between Russian avant-garde artists and the Old World during the years of the Great War (1914–1918).
Through radical movements such as Cubo-Futurism, Suprematism, and Constructivism – and absurdist poetry and atonal music as well – artists of the era rejected the past and imagined a new world order born from the chaos of conflict.
The exhibition, which features works by major figures such as Kazimir Malevich, Liubov Popova and Aleksei Kruchonykh, sheds light on their revolutionary, anti-war visions that redefined art and its role in society.
Until 25/10, MOMus–Museum of Modern Art–Costakis Collection, 21 Kolokotroni, Moni Lazariston, momus.gr
Ara Güler’s Anatolia
Through 62 color photographs, the Museum of Modern Greek Art of the Municipality of Rhodes presents “Ara Güler’s Anatolia in Color,” a pictorial journey across Asia Minor, from Bodrum and the Mediterranean shores of Anamur to the Sumela Monastery in the Pontic Mountains. The exhibition showcases the deeply humanist lens of the legendary Turkish photographer, who captured the dignity, hardship and history of Anatolia’s people without idealization. Taken between 1957 and 2003, the images document places of profound cultural resonance, including the Hellenistic city of Aphrodisias. Organized in collaboration with the Ara Güler Museum, Archive & Research Center in Istanbul and the Turkish Consulate General in Rhodes, the show offers an unfiltered yet poetic portrait of a land layered with memory.
Until 30/08, Museum of Modern Greek Art – New Wing of the Nestorideion Melathron, Kos Street, mgamuseum.gr/en/
The historic hotel of Athens returns, radically renewed. Electra Rhythm Athens reintroduces itself on Ermou Street with a new name, a new philosophy, and a bold intention to redefine modern urban hospitality.
ATHENS FINDS ITS
The Lobby Lounge and Reception area has a timeless sophistication inspired by the grandeur of both ancient and modern Greek aesthetics.
AT THE VERY START OF ERMOU STREET, in the heart of Athens, a familiar landmark returns – transformed, reimagined and ready to redefine the city’s rhythm. More than an addition to the Electra Hotels portfolio, Electra Rhythm Athens is a bold expression of renewal, a fresh concept with its own pulse and purpose.
The building is familiar to Athenians and travelers alike. Originally opened in 1965 as the inaugural hotel of the Electra Group, it helped shape modern tourism in Athens. Sixty years later, at a time of celebration and renewal, it reopens to mark a new beginning.
“At this moment in time, a standard renovation would not have sufficed,” explains Yiannis Retsos, CEO of Electra Hotels & Resorts. “We needed to create an entirely new product, one that, just like in 1965, would once again shift the paradigm for Athens. Electra Rhythm is our first standalone concept, with its own distinct identity […] designed to connect international visitors directly to the rhythm of the city.”
The hotel’s culinary offerings highlight local producers and regional products. The Focal Rooftop Restaurant stands out for its Greek creative cuisine, crafted by chef Dimitris Siozos.
The hotel commands an unbeatable downtown location with views of the Acropolis, as seen here from the Focal Rooftop Restaurant.
Αll day Rebels Brew is perfect for homemade pies, tasty bites, specialty coffees and Greek craft beers.
The hotel offers 101 rooms across four distinctive types – Nest, Cozy, Slow, and Active – each thoughtfully designed to suit either short stays or longer visits. At the core of the hospitality experience is the Electro Studio Gym, a nextgeneration fitness space conceived with the energy and expectations of the hotel’s dynamic clientele in mind.
In the same spirit of innovation, Electra Rhythm introduces three new meeting points that foster connection and creativity. The Focal Rooftop Restaurant serves modern Greek cuisine in a relaxed atmosphere, complete with sweeping views of the Acropolis. The Rebels Brew is an all-day hub serving specialty coffee, Greek craft beers and modern comfort bites. And the Collaborative Studios offer flexible working or meeting spaces, open not only to hotel guests but also to the city’s own creative community. The strategic repositioning, creative direction and concept development were all led by Interweave Agency, which oversaw the entire project. They also carried out the architectural competition, which was won by the firm Mutiny Architecture & Design. Construction work was carried out by Ballian Technical S.A.
“We placed great emphasis on creating rooms based on the different needs of each guest,” notes CEO Retsos. “We designed a fitness space aligned with the lifestyle of the audiences we aim to attract. The hotel’s culinary offerings highlight local producers and ingredients. And finally, the way we’ve structured the meeting and events area enables it to serve small groups, whether staying at the hotel or visiting from the city’s downtown business ecosystem.”
Το Electro Studio Gym
The Electro Studio Gym boasts the latest in fitness equipment for a full workout in a welcoming space.
Electra Rhythm Athens speaks to travelers, day visitors and locals alike, people who aren’t simply looking for a beautiful room, but for a chance to tap into the everyday beat of the city.
The Active Suite combines elegance, and contemporary design in an environment ideal for relaxation.
Electra Rhythm Athens speaks to travelers, day visitors, and locals alike, people who aren’t simply looking for a beautiful room, but for a chance to tap into the everyday beat of the city.
“It’s designed for those who want to experience the rhythm of Athens and connect directly with its people and way of life,” says the chief executive. “We aim to offer experiences that reveal some of the capital’s best-kept secrets.”
Info
ELECTRA RHYTHM ATHENS
Ερμού 5, Σύνταγμα, Tel. (+30) 210.3378000
Κρατήσεις Tel. (+30) 210.3004092
Electra Rhythm Athens
He adds: “The world has changed dramatically in recent decades. People today have the means to enjoy countless options across the globe. They are well-traveled and no longer dazzled by loud, ostentatious luxury. Today, true luxury must evoke emotion. It must speak through simplicity, elegance and attention to detail, without excess or pretense. That’s the vision behind Electra Rhythm.”
Electra Rhythm Athens is thoughtfully designed to blend into the city’s urban fabric, becoming an integral part of Athens’ own rhythm. Inspired by its rich past, yet shaped by the needs of today and tomorrow, it’s a hotel that is always moving in step with the exciting city it graces.
Info
ELECTRA RHYTHM ATHENS
5 Ermou, Syntagma Tel. (+30) 210.337.8000
Reservations Tel. (+30) 210.300.4092
ATHENS × 10
Ten walks, one city – ancient yet modern, and always surprising.
By Maro Vasiliadou, Dimitris Rigopoulos and Pandelis Tsompanis
Starting Point ____ Acropolis
If this is your first time in Athens, there’s no better place to begin than the Acropolis Museum, a globally renowned cultural landmark where ancient heritage meets cuttingedge architecture. Here, the story of Athens unfolds before your eyes through masterpieces reflecting classical aesthestics, philosophy and daily life. But before heading up to the galleries, descend to Level -1, where the ancient city’s foundations have been laid bare. This is the Excavation Museum, a space shedding light on more than 4,500 years of continuous habitation. Along its southern edge, you’ll see 1,150 artifacts from the many thousands found on-site: remnants of an ancient neighborhood of homes, workshops, courtyards and wells. It feels almost cinematic – like stepping through time and brushing shoulders with everyday Athenians in their original setting. After your visit, take the pedestrianized stretch of Drakou Street to Falirou Street, weaving through the lively neighborhood of Koukaki. This area has a personality of its own, with cozy cafés, creative studios and a unique blend of old and new. Where Falirou meets Anastasiou Zinni just steps away from busy Syngrou Avenue, turn left and then cross over that avenue to visit the National Museum of Contemporary Art (EMST), housed in the imposing former Fix Brewery. Here, Athens speaks in the language of today through installations, video art, and works that engage with both Greek and global contemporary discourse. It’s a rewarding end to a short walk that links ancient life to modern creativity. M.V. 1
Whichever Electra Hotel in Athens you’ve chosen, the city is truly at your feet. If you’re in the mood to veer slightly off the beaten track while still feeling the city’s vibrant pulse, begin your walk at Mitropoleos Square, steps away from Electra Metropolis. Shaded by clusters of plane trees and dominated by the beautiful Metropolitan Cathedral of Athens, dedicated to the Annunciation of the Virgin Mary, the square is a serene and elegant starting point for your day’s explorations. From there, head into the winding streets of Plaka, the city’s most historic neighborhood, by following either Aghias Filotheis Street or Tripodon Street, then veer onto Prytaneiou, which changes names to become Tholou Street as it leads you straight to the Roman Agora. It may not appear on every “must-see” list, but this compact, beautifully preserved site has a quiet magnetism that reveals itself to those who linger. Continue down Areos Street to reach the Museum of Modern Greek Culture (10 Areos), a tranquil gem that offers a thoughtfully curated journey through the country’s more recent past. With engaging thematic presentations and interactive exhibits, the museum feels both intimate and expansive, and its leafy courtyard café is perfect for a mid-walk pause. You can end your stroll at Monastiraki Square, where the city’s layered history comes vividly to life. Surrounded by ancient ruins, Ottoman-era buildings and Byzantine churches, Monastiraki buzzes with energy – a mix of cultures, sounds and eras colliding. Alternatively, head back through Adrianou Street, a charming marble-paved road lined with shops and neoclassical façades, and wind your way to Kidathineon Street. Here you’ll find two local icons. First is the Ciné Paris (22 Kidathineon), arguably the bestloved open-air cinema in Athens. Its rooftop terrace offers magical summer screenings under the stars, with the illuminated Acropolis in the background. Even if you don’t plan to watch a film, it’s worth a stop; the vintage posters for sale, the jasmine by the entrance, and the nostalgic mood create a truly nostalgic atmosphere. (Bonus: films in Greece are shown in their original language with subtitles, not dubbed). Just down the road, the bar Brettos (41 Kidathineon) beckons. With its air of quiet sophistication and a playlist that includes both rebetiko and gypsy jazz, this warmly lit spot, backed by one of Athens’ most photographed walls – a glowing mosaic of colorful bottles – is the perfect place to end your walk with a drink in hand.
M.V.
ILISIA
Starting Point ____ The Runner
The most renowned contemporary sculpture in Athens, “The Runner” by Kostas Varotsos stands at the intersection of three avenues named after royalty (Vasilissis Sofias, Vasileos Konstantinou and Vasileos Alexandrou). And yet, there’s nothing regal about it. That’s not surprising, really, as it was created in 1988, fourteen years after the abolition of the Greek monarchy. This dynamic figure, made of stacked glass sheets that capture the motion of a solitary runner cutting through the bustling city, was originally placed further downtown, in Omonia Square, before being moved to its current spot in 1994. Directly opposite stands the National Gallery of Athens, which underwent a major expansion in 2021, doubling its exhibition space. Behind its 1970s modernist façade lies a treasure trove of modern Greek art, with works spanning from the early years of the Greek state in the 1830s to the present day. Whether you’re an art lover or not, it’s worth heading up to the Gallery’s rooftop restaurant just to enjoy the sweeping views of Athens, including, of course, the Acropolis, majestic in the distance. Behind the museum, you’ll find the Japanese Garden, a tranquil pocket of calm, ideal for a moment of cool shade before you head into the tumult of Pangrati, one of Athens’ liveliest residential neighborhoods. To round off your cultural stroll, take a short walk to the Athens Conservatoire (Odeio Athinon), a landmark of post-war modernist architecture now entering a new era, thanks to the recent completion of long-awaited renovations. From the café inside, you might hear a piano student practicing scales, or spot local skateboarders turning the Conservatoire’s signature marble staircase into an urban stage.
D.R.
THE JAPANESE GARDEN
PANGRATΙ
Starting Point ____ Basil & Elise Goulandris Foundation
About 95% of Athens visitors who reach the forecourt of the Panathenaic Stadium think they’ve ticked off the area’s only major attraction. Few suspect that just five minutes away lies a world-class museum of modern art, housing works by Cézanne, Van Gogh, Gauguin, Degas and Picasso. The Basil & Elise Goulandris Foundation is one of Athens’ best-kept cultural surprises, a luminous space that balances its celebrated international collection with impactful galleries devoted to the pioneers of modern Greek painting. From the museum, we suggest heading uphill to the border between two popular neighborhoods: Pangrati and Mets. Walk up Eratosthenous Street to Plastira Square, then head right for Archimidous Street, which brings you to the rear side of the Panathenaic Stadium, nestled east of Ardittos Hill. From here, you have two equally rewarding paths. To your right, at No. 16, look for a half-open metal gate. It leads to a dirt track that circles the top of the Stadium, a favorite loop for local runners and walkers, open daily from 07:00 to 22:00. Even if jogging isn’t your thing, pause for the breathtaking view; from this quiet perch, you can spot many of central Athens’ ancient and neoclassical landmarks, with the Acropolis proudly rising above them all. Sunset from this point is one of the city’s best-kept secrets. Alternatively, turn left onto Empedokleous Street for a dose of the city’s quieter, unpolished charm. This is the Athens of lived-in apartment blocks, flower-filled balconies and everyday life. You’ll soon find yourself at Varnava Square, a local favorite where the Dionysian spirit of contemporary Athens comes to life: busy cafés, lively tavernas and people-watching at its finest. D.R.
ZAPPEION
Starting Point ____
The New Vasilissis Olgas Promenade
If the crowds along Dionysiou Areopagitou, the city’s most iconic pedestrian street wrapping around the Acropolis, start to feel a bit overwhelming, simply cross over to the other side. Just a few steps north of Hadrian’s Arch (on Amalias Avenue), you’ll find the beginning of Athens’ new, still-evolving promenade (with one lane currently open for buses). Though works on Vasilissis Olgas aren’t set to be completed until October, a significant stretch is already open to both locals and visitors, the final link in an ambitious urban project: the unification of Athens’ archaeological sites through a 3.5-kilometer-long pedestrian network that begins at the ancient cemetery of Kerameikos and ends at the Panathenaic Stadium. Excavation works along Vasilissis Olgas have brought to light a wealth of finds from the city’s Roman heyday, which will eventually be displayed in situ, but if you’re in the mood for more recent attractions, take a short detour to the elegant Zappeion Hall and its surrounding gardens, stop by the historic Aigli café, now reopened as an all-day restaurant, or catch a film at the open-air cinema of the same name, one of the most popular summer venues in Athens, famed for its cool shade on the hottest nights of the year. And if the (currently inaccessible) ruins along the new promenade whet your appetite for more, we suggest a stroll through the adjacent National Gardens. Scattered around its lush grounds are remnants of ancient columns and Roman mosaics waiting quietly in a verdant setting.
Starting Point ____ National Archaeological Museum
After taking in the treasures of the National Archaeological Museum (NAM) – masterpieces such as the “Artemision Bronze” (depicting either Poseidon or Zeus), the Mycenaean “Mask of Agamemnon,” and the “Antikythera Youth,” which offer not only dazzling artistry but a sweeping narrative of ancient civilization – make your way toward Pedion tou Areos Park via Mavromataion Street. The park is one of Athens’ largest green spaces, a sprawling urban forest teeming with eucalyptus and pine trees, winding paths, weathered marble busts and kids on scooters weaving through shaded corners. It’s a place where the city slows down and you can lose yourself in greenery and birdsong, in rustling leaves and soft light: a welcome, almost surreal pause from the noise of the metropolis. To the north of the park lies Kypseli, one of the city’s most architecturally distinctive and creatively charged neighborhoods. With its multicultural character, elegant interwar apartment buildings and busy network of artists and collectives, Kypseli is both a tight-knit urban community and a creative zone that’s constantly reinventing itself. At Aghios Giorgios Square, you’ll feel its rhythm: cafés, bars, and restaurants stay open long past midnight. A few blocks away, the revitalized Kypseli Municipal Market is a cultural and community hub, where you might stumble upon a food festival, a microbrewery pop-up, a kids’ storytelling session, or a local producers’ market – often all in the same week. From here, wander down the pedestrianized stretch of Fokionos Negri, lined with fountains, trees, and vintage charm, or explore the recently reimagined Aghias Zonis Street, now a new go-to spot for coffee, wine and low-key nightlife. Try the Georgian-style breads and pies at Marili Bakery (26 Aghias Zonis), or grab a table at Santo Belto (21 Aghias Zonis) for a glass of natural wine and a bruschetta with kopanisti cheese from Chios and pear – a perfect treat on this unexpected, unforgettable side of Athens. P.T.
A visit to the Acropolis is expected, and absolutely recommended. But before joining the long ticket line and the crowds on the Sacred Rock itself, why not admire it from a distance in a raised setting that offers more tranquility? Filopappou Hill provides unobstructed views of the Parthenon, along with a wealth of eye-soothing greenery. What’s more, as you walk, you can feel the imprint of centuries underfoot. Begin at the junction of Dionysiou Areopagitou, Robertou Galli, and Apostolou Pavlou streets, and start your way up the stone path. Designed in the 1950s by pioneering architect Dimitris Pikionis, this trail is more than just a beautiful, treeshaded walk; it’s a lesson in artistry and reverence for the landscape, blending ancient stones, folk wisdom and modernist sensibilities in quiet harmony. With the Acropolis always in frame, you’ll soon reach the Monument of Philopappos, built between AD 114 and 116 by the Athenians in honor of their benefactor, Gaius Julius Antiochus Philopappos. The monument was crafted from two types of marble, Pentelic and Hymettian. Back down at the foot of the hill lies the Church of Aghios Dimitrios Loumbardiaris. From the church, it’s a five or six-minute walk to the summit of the Pnyx, for yet another angle from which to view the Acropolis, and for the momentous history of this spot. It was here that Pericles, at the end of the first year of the Peloponnesian War, delivered his famed Funeral Oration in memory of the fallen, here that Demosthenes warned Athens against the danger posed by Philip II of Macedon, and here, too, where the ancient city’s popular assemblies gathered to debate. Take your time, walking like a wanderer rather than a sightseer as you descend toward the Plaka district via Theorias Street, a sloping passage skirting the upper edge of that neighborhood, right beside the Acropolis walls. Below you, Plaka’s narrow lanes, lined with neoclassical homes, hold old-world scents and contemporary surprises – not just for your camera, but for encounters with the city’s deeper spirit, too. At the corner of Panos and Theorias stands the Paul and Alexandra Canellopoulos Museum (CAMU), housed in the 19th-century neoclassical Michalea Mansion, now expanded with a contemporary wing. Since its opening to the public in 1976, the museum has showcased a collection of some 6,500 artifacts, spanning the period from antiquity to the Byzantine era. Here, at the end of this route, inside this quiet museum, you can reflect on this different side of Athens that you’ve seen, one that has perhaps prepared you to experience the city’s more celebrated sites in a new light.
M.V.
PETRALONA
Starting Point ____ Hill of the Nymphs
If you’re looking to explore a quieter, more poetic side of Athens, start at the summit of the Hill of the Nymphs, home to the National Observatory of Athens since 1846. It was from this modest summit that the fifth-century BC Athenian astronomer Meton used his helioscope to track solstices and equinoxes. Today, the hill offers some of the most captivating views of the Acropolis, albeit without the tourist bustle. From here, follow the stone footpaths of Filopappou Hill to reach “Ta Petrina,” a unique cluster of homes forming part of the Ano Petralona neighborhood. With their brick façades, jasmine-scented courtyards, and cats lounging in narrow alleyways, the houses here feel more like part of a quiet island village than a bustling capital. Descending further, you’ll reach Troon Street, recently named one of the 30 coolest streets in the world by TimeOut. Take a break for lunch at Oikonomou Taverna (32 Kidantidon & Troon), a true neighborhood favorite serving traditional Greek food with a side of local color; don’t be surprised if your meal comes with a story. Your walk can end at Merkouri Square, a local hangout loved by both long-time residents and newcomers. For something retro and authentic, grab an ouzo and meze at Rantevou (8 Arkadon). For a more eclectic vibe, step into the tiny Adad Books & Café (1 Antaiou), a pocket-sized spot where you can sip your drink while browsing independent magazines and art books. P.T.
GEO R GES
With more than fifty years of experience in fine jewelry, GEORGES is excited to launch a new chapter with the opening of its boutique in the heart of Athens. The stunning interior, highlighted by a sculptural spiral ceiling, creates an elegant atmosphere for a journey through time, style, and craftsmanship. Combining modern aesthetics with the rich heritage of Ancient Greece and the Byzantine Empire, GEORGES offers collections made from 14K and 18K gold, embellished with diamonds and precious stones. You can visit us in person or browse the collection online.
Despite being blessed with a coastline that stretches for dozens of kilometers, Athens spent most of its modern existence resolutely ignoring the sea. That mindset began to shift after the 2004 Olympic Games, with a pivotal moment being the creation of the Stavros Niarchos Foundation Cultural Center (SNFCC) near the Kallithea waterfront. But for a more unexpected starting point to your coastal walk, we suggest a lesser-known cultural treasure: the Toy Museum, the newest branch of the Benaki Museum, one of Greece’s cultural flagships. Opened in 2017, the museum houses one of the ten richest toy collections in Europe and is located in one of the few surviving mansions of the Palaio Faliro district, the neo-Gothic Kouloura Villa (14 Poseidonos and 1 Tritonos), a building that evokes the charm of Belle Époque Athens. (Note: the museum is open Thu-Sun) Standing here, at the start of Poseidonos Avenue, the coastal road, you’ll get a taste of Athenian life by the sea. Directly across lies Flisvos Marina, perfect for yacht-watching or enjoying an ice cream with views of the Saronic Gulf. Come evening (the first screening starts at 21:00), head to the nearby Ciné Flisvos, a beloved open-air cinema tucked inside the namesake park. The Athens tram line runs the length of the Athenian Riviera. Ride it eastward to Glyfada’s public beaches for a quick dip or sunbathing session (stop: Sailing Center), or head west toward the Stavros Niarchos Park (stop: Aghia Skepi) to explore a world-renowned cultural complex designed by Italian architect Renzo Piano. D.R.
KIFISSIA
Starting Point ____ Kifissia Grove
At the northernmost end of Athens’ original metro line, Kifissia has long served as the city’s elegant summer escape, the capital’s oversized version of a royal garden. Historically a retreat for the local elite, it still offers a refreshing break from the summer heat, with a vibe that feels more Central Europe than southern Mediterranean. Nestled at the foot of Mt Penteli, Kifissia grew into a gracious summer resort in the 19th century, graced with structures following architectural trends from much cooler northern climates. The result? A district filled with villas, mansions, and leafy gardens, many of which have survived intact to this day. Begin your walk at the lush and impeccably kept Kifissia Grove, which hosts a popular flower show every spring. Enter from the north and stroll uphill along Kassaveti Street, toward the heart of Kifissia’s shopping district. Along the way, you’ll pass a true neighborhood institution: the Varsos pastry shop. Even if you’re not in the mood for something sweet, step inside for a glimpse of its vintage display counters and retro specialties ranging from their famed galaktoboureko (custard pie) to perfectly chilled puddings; you might just have to give into temptation. Nearby, you’ll find the Goulandris Natural History Museum, housed in a stunning 1875 mansion. This cornerstone of environmental education in Greece also offers a charming café, the perfect place to reflect on your leafy, offbeat escape from the city center. If you’d like to end your northern stroll in style, choose one of Kifissia’s historic open-air cinemas: Bomboniera or Chloe. Both offer a taste of summer nights the old-fashioned Athenian way: under the stars, and surrounded by garden scents and the hum of cicadas. D.R.
The city’s most iconic square becomes a theater of life, where daily rituals, happy memories and hopeful dreams animate throngs bathed in the light of the Thermaic Gulf.
By Pandelis Tsompanis, Photos: Olga Deikou
Red columns and semicircular arches define the neoByzantine style of the buildings along Aristotelous Square.
Top: Kydoniatou Street, at the heart of the Vlali Market –aka Kapani Market.
Bottom: Αrchitect and photographer Aris Georgiou, a resident of Aristotelous Street.
For the people of Thessaloniki, Aristotelous Square and the avenue that shares its name are much more than architectural landmarks. They are emotional touchstones, woven into the personal histories of generations; everyone in the city has their own version of Aristotelous. For some, it’s the memory of childhood strolls, hand in hand with parents, chasing pigeons across the open square while the Thermaic Gulf sparkled just beyond. For others, it’s where friendships were forged, under the glowing marquee of the Olympion cinema or outside the Electra Palace Hotel. It’s where evenings began and first kisses were stolen behind the deep red colonnades, with Mt Olympus silhouetted faintly in the distance.
Aristotelous Square is often the first city scene to greet visitors, the first encounter with Thessaloniki’s tireless rhythm and rich architectural layers. The scent of freshly baked tsoureki wafts from Terkenlis, the beloved pâtisserie that has stood on the corner of Aristotelous and Tsimiski since 1948. Music fills the air, sometimes the drifting notes of a lone bouzouki player, other times the exuberant sounds of a Balkan brass band.
This square is often where visitors get their first taste of Thessaloniki, and locals return to find a piece of themselves. It’s the first impression of a city that knows how to live fully, balancing the past and the present, the solemn and the joyful, the everyday and the extraordinary.
The square, a beloved landmark for locals and visitors
alike, feels as though it has always been there. Yet the semicircular buildings that embrace it, the neo-Byzantine façades in soft ochre tones, and the striking arcades with their deep crimson colonnades stretching from bustling Egnatia Street to the seafront boulevard of Leoforos Nikis are all the result of a radical vision born from devastation.
The Great Fire of 1917, which destroyed Thessaloniki’s historic center, set the stage for one of the boldest urban redesigns in modern Greek history. The task of reimagining the city was entrusted to French architect and urban planner Ernest Hébrard (1875-1933). Hébrard, who was stationed in Thessaloniki at the time as director of the Archaeological Service of the Army of the Orient, seized the opportunity to introduce international urban planning trends to the city. He envisioned a symmetrical Thessaloniki to rival the great cities of Europe, drawing inspiration from Haussmann’s redesign of Paris, with its diagonal boulevards connecting major landmarks, and the Hippodamian grid, featuring wide avenues running parallel to the sea, intersected by perpendicular streets.
According to Hébrard’s master plan, the Aristotelous axis was originally named “Avenue of the League of Nations.” It would begin at Egnatia Street, at the level of Dikastirion Square, where an imposing Courthouse Complex was to be built over the ruins of the Roman Forum, and it would end at what was to become “Alexander the Great Square.” An equestrian statue of the legendary Macedonian general would stand at the center of the thoroughfare.
But Hébrard’s vision was never fully realized, thwarted by lack of funding and local political disputes. What remains of the original plan is the outline of the axis itself and the layout of Aristotelous Square – which intersects with Ermou, Vasileos Herakleiou, Tsimiski and Mitropoleos streets – as well as a set of architectural guidelines that were faithfully followed. As a result, all the buildings along the Aristotelous axis share a unified aesthetic: arched facades, colonnades and decorative elements that acknowledge Byzantine influences while drawing from European design vocabularies. The style that emerged is known as neo-Byzantine; the construction spanned decades, delayed by World War II and scaled down from the original plans. One example is the semicircular Olympion building, designed by architect Jacques Mosse before the war but only completed in 1959.
Panayiotis Tzonos, architect and emeritus professor at the Aristotle University of Thessaloniki, has vivid memories of Aristotelous Square in the 1940s and 1950s, as his grandparents lived at No. 3 on the avenue.
“From my grandmother’s balcony, I could see the movement along both Tsimiski and Mitropoleos Streets. I vaguely remember the sight of British and Scottish soldiers lined up in the square after the city’s liberation from the Germans in 1944. The Scots even played the bagpipes. They were heading home. Another memory is the Terkenlis pâtisserie, which has stood on the corner of Tsimiski and Aristotelous since 1948. My grandmother would give me money to buy sweets for her. It was a little pocket of joy,” he recalls.
In 1956, his parents moved into the apartment and Tzonos became witness to nearly every major political gathering in the square. “From my balcony I could see everything –rallies, mass demonstrations. Aristotelous was a hotbed of political activity, especially after the restoration of democracy in 1974.”
Photographer Aris Georgiou shares a similar story: his grandmother moved into No. 6 Aristotelous in 1957, directly across from the now-iconic pâtisserie.
“Back then, the square didn’t look anything like it does today. There were still empty lots, many of which hosted open-air cinemas such as Koronis and Zephyros. I remember watching ‘The Racers’ with Kirk Douglas at one of them. Another plot was occupied by a brickworks, where contractors came to buy building materials. Where the Electra Palace now stands, there was once a parking lot for official vehicles. And on the opposite corner – before the Olympion cinema was completed – there was a street vendor selling hot loukoumades. Aristotelous Square only began to look like what we know today towards the end of the 1980s.”
Construction of the Electra Palace Hotel began in 1962 and was completed ten years later. Unusually for its time, the building incorporated earthquake-resistant features. Its semicircular façade is defined by neo-Byzantine elements and its signature arches, while the interior reveals neoclassical elegance with rich wood paneling, marble floors and ornate furnishings.
For most of its history, the Aristotelous axis was a paved
Kapani is one of the most vibrant historic markets in Thessaloniki.
The landmark hotel celebrates 53 years of operation this year.
Top: Architect Panagiotis Tzonos with his wife, art historian Matoula Skaltsa.
Bottom: The statue of Aristotle is a popular meeting point for the city’s youth.
της βότκας Absolut, «Absolut Cities»,
road with a median strip. But in the 1980s, as Thessaloniki’s population surged, double-parked cars began causing serious congestion along the avenue. “The city’s role as European Capital of Culture in 1997 prompted a major redesign: the street was transformed into a pedestrian zone, one that locals and visitors from across Greece and the neighboring Balkan countries still enjoy today,” says Georgiou.
“The identity of the people of Thessaloniki is inextricably linked to Aristotelous Square,” notes Tzonos. “Where once it was cultural gatherings that brought crowds together, today it’s the New Year’s Eve celebrations held in the square. Aristotelous still retains its spirit, even if it’s expressed in different ways.”
In the 2000s, the world was introduced to Thessaloniki in part through Aristotelous Square, which took center stage in Absolut Vodka’s global “Absolut Cities” campaign; seen from above, the square’s unique shape echoes the silhouette of a bottle.
The square is also synonymous with the city’s International Film Festival, anchored at the Olympion cinema. It has become a natural gathering point for Greek and international cinephiles alike, who spill out onto the square after screenings to debate what they’ve seen with intensity and joy, often stopping at No. 4 Aristotelous Street, home to Stereodisc, the city’s legendary record store that’s stood in the same spot since 1968. A cornerstone of Thessaloniki’s music scene, Stereodisc continues to bring generations of music lovers together in a celebration of sound.
What’s more, the experience of Aristotelous extends
well beyond its physical boundaries. The square and its axis form the vibrant core of a wider microcosm alive with history, renewal and cultural diversity. To the north, on Vasileos Herakleiou Street, the recently renovated Modiano Market has reclaimed its long-lost glamour. After years of neglect, it has been transformed into a modern culinary arcade. Steps away lies the Louloudadika, or flower market; at the intersection of Vasileos Herakleiou and Komninon Streets, surrounding the historic Yahudi Hammam, small flower shops have stood proudly for decades, gently perfuming the crossroads with the scent of blossoms.
A bit further up, the Kapani Market (also known as Vlali Market) has been a bustling hub of daily life for over five centuries. It remains Thessaloniki’s liveliest traditional market, a colorful, noisy maze of alleyways overflowing with stalls selling fruit, herbs, cheeses, fish and spices; it’s a place where time seems to move at its own rhythm. Opposite the square, a short walk leads to Papamarkou Street, a quiet, up-and-coming neighborhood that has captured the spirit of creative Thessaloniki, with old artisan workshops, emerging designers and cafés with a distinctly bohemian flair.
Since the 2010s, the future of the square has been the subject of much debate. Urban redesign proposals and public space competitions have sparked division and controversy. But whatever the future holds, one thing is certain: Aristotelous Square remains a mirror of Thessaloniki. It reflects the city’s contradictions, its layered history, the emotional bond that city residents feel for it and the impression it creates on those visitors who pass through it.
Nine ways to discover the island’s true self – one experience at a time.
A cornerstone of Greek tourism, Rhodes welcomes an annual influx of visitors that can outnumber its 125,000 permanent residents by a factor of twenty or even thirty. But how many of them arrive with a genuine thirst for exploration? How many seek out experiences that go beyond the expected, the usual? Moments that reveal the true, layered character of this captivating island? Rhodes is a rich mosaic of history, gastronomy, culture and nature. To truly know it, you have to live it: hike through its pine-covered mountains, sample local delicacies alongside the people who make them, shape clay in a traditional ceramics workshop, or follow dolphins across the open sea. The nine activities that follow offer a deeper, more personal way to experience the island in ways that you’ll remember long after you leave. Έννέα
RHODES
BEYOND THE OBVIOUS
Horseback Riding by the Sea Just 10 kilometers from the city of Rhodes, the Kadmou Riding Club has been offering horseback riding experiences in nature for over 25 years. As a member of the Hellenic Equestrian Federation, the club has experienced instructors and organizes both jumping and dressage lessons, as well as trail rides through the countryside. One of the most popular routes for beginners is a gentle ride around the club’s grounds, taking novices through two small wooded areas. For those seeking something a little more ambitious, a truly memorable experience is horseback riding by the sea. Starting from the Electra Rhodes, riders follow a coastal path to Kremasti and back. On calm days, they can even ride into the water with their mount, a moment that will stay with them long after the ride is over.
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Ceramics Workshop Theodoros Karagiannis has been working with ceramics for nearly twenty years. Four years ago, he opened his own studio in the town of Rhodes, where he teaches year-long courses and shorter workshops. Still, he doesn’t treat his craft as a fixed set of skills to be formally taught. “Ceramics is constantly evolving. In essence, we are a learning community,” he says. For those taking only a single class, he offers a three-hour session inspired by the pomegranate, a symbol of good fortune found in many Rhodian homes. Participants learn basic hand-building techniques and shape their own clay pomegranate. “Since firing takes several days, we glaze a piece made by a previous visitor. That way, the art passes from one pair of hands to the next,” Theodoros explains.
Wine Tasting & Cooking Lessons Near the Valley of the Butterflies, in the area of Kalamonas, the Zafeirakopoulos family has been cultivating vineyards for nearly three decades, continuing Rhodes’ ancient winemaking tradition. Their estate grows both Greek and French grape varieties – including Athiri, Mandilaria, Muscat of Alexandria, Merlot and Chardonnay – and in recent years, they’ve become pioneers in local wine tourism as well. Each morning around 11:00, a guided tour of the vineyard begins, often led by Iasonas Zafeirakopoulos, who introduces the grape varieties and explains, with the help of visual aids, the pruning process. The tour continues with a tasting of five different estate wines on the breezy winery terrace (the selection varies depending on the day), followed by a hands-on cooking class where guests learn to make tzatziki, eggplant salad and stuffed vine leaves. The experience ends with a leisurely eleven-course lunch at the winery’s restaurant, a true feast of local flavors that includes briam (Greek ratatouille), feta with honey, and zucchini fritters with cheese.
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Hiking on the Slopes Trekking Hellas Rhodes organizes hikes in various parts of Rhodes throughout the year, offering participants a unique opportunity to discover the island’s natural beauty as they walk carefully selected trails. One of the most beautiful summer hikes is the one to Mt Profitis Ilias. The route begins in the village of Salakos and follows a trail through lush landscapes filled with holm oaks, cypresses and pines. After about three hours of hiking, there’s a stop where hikers can enjoy panoramic views that take in the island of Symi and the Turkish coastline. As the seasons change, so does the scenery. In autumn, excursions shift to the southern part of the island, to Mt Akramitis. From there, the islands of Halki, Tilos and Karpathos stretch across the horizon.
trekking.gr
Getting to Know a Beekeeper Areti Mesanagrenou is a third-generation beekeeper in the traditional village of Archipoli, carrying on a family tradition that began in 1957 with her grandfather, Yiannis. Depending on the season, her family produces honey from pine, thyme, eucalyptus and heather. Visitors are welcome to tour their small beekeeping operation; donning a protective suit, they can walk among the hives and learn about the fascinating world of bees. The visit ends with a honey tasting, where guests can sample the distinct flavors of Rhodes, a reflection of the island’s incredibly rich flora. “Our bees don’t just visit trees and shrubs,” Areti explains. “They have hundreds of wild herbs to choose from.”
aretihoney.gr
Approaching Lindos by Sea Lindos, on the island’s eastern coast, is the most renowned archaeological site on Rhodes, its ancient acropolis perched atop a dramatic cliff rising more than 100 meters above the sea. During the summer, the road leading there becomes congested with cars and tour buses, making arrival by sea a far more enjoyable option. Daily boats depart from Kiotari and reach Lindos in about an hour. Passengers have three and a half hours to explore the archaeological site and swim at either Pallas Beach, where the boats dock, or the village’s wide central beach. For a truly memorable visit, choose the late-afternoon cruise (Monday, Wednesday, and Friday), which sets off on its return from Lindos at 21:30. As the moonlight glimmers on the sea, you may find yourself believing that the illuminated acropolis high above is, in fact, hovering in the sky.
lindosbyboat.gr
Visitors to the acropolis at Lindos are rewarded with stunning views and ancient ruins.
Chasing the Wind At the southern tip of Rhodes, Prasonisi is a striking geological formation that looks like a separate island but is actually connected to the mainland by a narrow stretch of sand. Over the past 25 years, this unique spot has become a haven for windsurfers and kiteboarders from around the world. Founded in 2019, Kite Prasonisi offers lessons in kiteboarding and wing foiling, even for complete beginners. The school’s core program runs eight hours – typically split into four two-hour sessions – covering everything from kite control on the beach to body dragging in the water. “In eight hours, they get a solid grasp of the sport while enjoying the beauty of the turquoise sea,” says founder Petros Margaritis.
Dolphins, Tuna and a Day at Sea If you’re curious about Rhodes’ marine ecosystem, hop aboard a boat trip from Skala Kamiros to the uninhabited islet of Alimia, just off the coast of Halki. Run by Blutopia, this sea excursion offers a rare chance to spot dolphins where they congregate near local fish farms and swim alongside bluefin tuna and amberjack in their natural habitat. The day begins around 10:00 and wraps up at 17:00 or so, with stops for snorkeling, wildlife observation and a relaxed swim in crystal-clear waters. There’s also a fresh seafood lunch against the idyllic backdrop of Alimia, a place where time seems to slow down.
Book your Electra experience in Rhodes.
A Day Trip to Halki Most boats to Halki depart from the small port of Ancient Kamiros, on the western side of Rhodes. The journey takes around 50 minutes and brings you to a spot with a different pace of life: the tiny island of Halki, with just under 500 residents, feels like a world apart. Your first stop is Nimborio, the picture-perfect harbor village with neoclassical mansions and cobbled alleyways. Stroll through its narrow streets, admire the pastel-colored houses with flower-filled balconies, and visit the Church of Aghios Nikolaos with its pebbled courtyard. With no cars on the island, everything is easily explored on foot. Follow the 2.5-kilometer trail to the ghost village of Horio, the island’s former capital, and climb up to the 15th-century Castle of the Knights, built by the Order of Saint John. When it’s time for a swim, choose between Pondamos with its golden sand or Ftenagia, a pebbled cove with crystal-clear waters.
blutopia.gr
THE MUSICAL SOUL OF KEFALONIA KANTADA
Where jasmine-scented nights echo with love, laughter, and mandolins.
By Myrto Katsigera
Illustrations by Philippos Avramides
➻ If you ever find yourself in Kefalonia on a warm summer night, you may hear voices singing softly from a balcony in the distance, rising and falling in perfect harmony. Follow the sound to experience one of the region’s most authentic expressions of tradition: the famous kantada of Kefalonia.
The kantada, whose name stems from the Italian cantata – meaning “sung” – is more than just a song. It is a heartfelt gesture, a way of giving voice to tender emotions. It’s a musical offering that, although meant for someone in particular, is still capable of touching the heart of any listener.
➻ Like many great stories, this one begins at sea. In the early days, kantades were sung by fishermen as they worked, casting and hauling their nets, keeping rhythm with the work.
Over time, these melodies moved from the fishing boats to village tavernas. There, men’s voices began to be accompanied by the guitar and later by the mandolin, an instrument that became popular during the Italian Renaissance and fit naturally into Kefalonia’s evening gatherings. Its tone, subtle yet expressive, became an integral part of the kantada: gentle enough to suit the quiet of dusk, yet clear enough to stand out.
Kefalonia’s location and history gave it strong cultural ties to Western Europe. In the 18th and 19th centuries, Italian opera troupes toured the island, bringing with them arias and operettas. The bel canto style – meaning “beautiful singing” – left a lasting impression. But instead of simply imitating, Kefalonians were inspired, transforming opera –then a popular rather than elite art form – into a more intimate style suited to everyday life.
The development of the kantada was also influenced by the region’s polyphonic religious music, already deeply embedded in the ecclesiastical life of the Ionian Islands. Local cantors, well-versed in the harmonies of Western sacred music, developed their own distinctive school of singing. Even today, during local festivals, you might hear them break into kantades after service outside a church.
➻ The arrangements, usually for guitar, mandolin, and voice, may sound simple, but the harmonies are always carefully worked out. One voice leads; the others follow. The deceptive simplicity of the songs, effortlessly concealing their inner complexity, is a testament to the skill of the local musicians.
➻ The kantada is, above all, a song of love. Women are its inspiration and its intended audience. In the past, however, women would not be in the taverna but at home, which is why the quintessential kantada scene is of a group of men gathered beneath a balcony, wearing hats, scarves and sashes, often deep red in color. The song becomes an offering, like handing over a flower: a fragment of the island’s nature in music form.
Nature, after all, is ever-present in the lyrics themselves. The Kefalonian kantada draws from the coolness of evening, the scent of jasmine, the tall cypress trees and the glow of the moon. The islanders’ bond with their land is visceral, and it effortlessly seeps into the music. The images are ordinary but steeped in feeling, and in that lies their beauty.
➻Yet what truly gives the kantada its distinct character is its sense of playfulness. Kefalonians are famous for their wit, their flair for self-deprecation, and their sense of drama. A kantada is never sung in a neutral way – there’s usually a sparkle in the singer’s eyes, a joke on their lips, or a smile that brings energy to the performance.
Though it began among the working classes, the kantada was soon embraced by the island’s bourgeoisie. It became part of Kefalonia’s social life, sung in salons, on verandas and during family celebrations. Its influence reached mainland Greece, inspiring composers such as Mikis Theodorakis, whose songs echo the kantada’s lyrical simplicity, heartfelt emotion and melodic elegance.
Even after the devastating earthquake in 1953, which destroyed much of Kefalonia’s buildings, the kantada survived; it still endures today. You’ll hear it in village squares, during moonlit walks, even at hotels, sung with skill by seasoned kantadori or spontaneously by groups of friends. For the full kantada experience, attend a village festival such as the August 15th celebration of the Virgin Mary or the Feast of Saint Gerasimos, Kefalonia’s patron saint, on August 16th. Outside of summer, you’ll still get a chance to hear them, as villages host their own festivals at various times throughout the year.
➻You might wish to enjoy your music with a glass of local wine, just as it’s done at the Robola Festival in Valsamata or Fragata, or you might want to join the lively carnival in Lixouri. For a more romantic experience, try to find a barcarola celebration, when singers perform kantades in the evening from boats bobbing on the moonlit waters.
If you’re planning a trip to Kefalonia, look up the song “YaloYalo,” also known as “Eis ton Afro tis Thalassas” (“On the Crest of the Sea”) on Spotify. It’s a well-loved kantada familiar to Greeks of all ages and a great way to get a sense of the music you’ll hear live beneath the bright Kefalonian sky.
Η ΧΑΛΚΙΔΙΚΗ ΣΤΟ ΠΟΤΗΡΙ
Mια νέα γενιά οινοποιών ανακαλύπτει
Γιάννη Παπαδημητρίου, Φωτογραφίες:
A new generation of winemakers rediscovers a historic vineyard — and invests boldly in what comes next.
Βy John Papadimitriou, Photos: Konstantinos Tsakalidis
HALIKIDIKI BY THE GLASS
Amphorae filled with wine from ancient Mende, a city founded around the 8th century BCE on the Kassandra peninsula, have been discovered in a shipwreck off the coast of Sicily. In Olynthus, the historic city on the Toronean Gulf that was razed by Philip II of Macedon following its rebellion, marble wine presses have been unearthed. It’s a matter of historical record that, in ancient Stagira, the birthplace of Aristotle, that great philosopher’s student Theophrastus cultivated different grape varieties.
Halkidiki’s relationship with viticulture and winemaking stretches back nearly three millennia. In the Middle Ages, that tradition found continued expression in the monastic communities of Mt Athos, where wine has been produced continuously for over a thousand years.
Today, the main winegrowing zone of Halkidiki (excluding the self-governing peninsula of Mt Athos) begins in the semi-mountainous village of Lakkoma, extends along the foothills of Kassandra, and reaches all the way to Neos Marmaras in Sithonia. From there, it crosses the gulf to Ierissos, covers the region known as “Before Athos” (Pro tou Athos), and climbs north to Megali Panagia on Mt Htikela. The area ends in the lowland village of Marathousa, near Lake Volvi, where the region’s most inland vineyards are found.
This zone is home to wines designated PGI Halkidiki (Protected Geographical Indication). Sithonia itself produces both PGI Sithonia and PDO Slopes of Meliton (Protected Designation of Origin) wines. The PDO Slopes of Meliton designation, established in 1982, was the first in Greece to incorporate international grape varieties. It also remains one of only two Greek PDO wines permitted to include the indigenous Limnio grape.
The wines designated as PDO Slopes of Meliton and PGI Sithonia are produced exclusively at the Domaine Porto Carras, the largest organic vineyard in Greece and one of the largest in Europe, spanning 450 hectares. The winery project here was conceived in the 1960s by the legendary French oenologist Émile Peynaud, in collaboration with the Aristotle University of Thessaloniki and the Greek Wine Institute, under the guidance of the pioneering Greek oenologist Stavroula Kourakou-Dragona.
Left page: Winemaker Giannis Tzikas. Right: Thanasis Livadiotis at his winery in Marathousa.
του οινοποιείου μας. Θέλουμε να το καταστήσουμε επισκέψιμο και να αυξήσουμε την παραγωγή, γιατί η ζήτηση
ανατολική πλευρά της Χαλκιδικής σχηματίζεται μια σαφής
Domaine Agrovision.
From the left, oenologist Thomas Kontopos, co-owner Polly Karra, estate manager Phaedra Kyridou, Christos Glavas, and oenologist Anastasia Chatzi at Domaine Agrovision.
The Iatridis siblings in their vineyard at Lakkoma.
“The vineyard was used by the Wine Institute as both an experimental and demonstrative ground for international grape varieties, varieties whose cultivation had previously been prohibited by law,” recalls oenologist and winemaker Vangelis Gerovassiliou. “We were cultivating 27 different grape varieties under the supervision of Professor Vasilis Logothetis and Kourakou herself. We had one of the most advanced wineries in the world, equipped with state-ofthe-art technology, set in an exceptional terroir, and already applying sustainable practices long before official certifications existed,” Gerovassiliou says, pride clear in his voice.
The domaine was the birthplace of Greece’s first singlevarietal Syrah, and the blend of indigenous Limnio with Cabernet Sauvignon and Cabernet Franc led to the creation of the PDO label. The estate was not only a destination for such notable figures as Valéry Giscard d’Estaing, but also served as a commercial sanctuary for Greek grape varieties. It preserved and propagated native cultivars, distributing cuttings to vineyards across the country. One of the bestknown stories is that of Malagousia; it was here that Vangelis Gerovassiliou rediscovered this variety in the estate’s experimental vineyard and later brought it to Epanomi, where he cultivated it systematically.
CARRYING THE TRADITION FORWARD
All across the Halkidiki peninsula, whether in the popular resorts of Kassandra or the lesser-known mountainous interior, small and mid-sized wineries are steadily emerging. These producers are not only continuing the region’s deeprooted winemaking tradition, they are enriching its evolving identity as a wine tourism destination. Most of these wineries were established after 2010, marking the rise of a new generation of winemakers committed to quality and fresh ideas.
Our tour begins in Lakkoma, a village renowned for its local stone, which is used in traditional construction. In 2014, three brothers – Polykarpos, Nikos, and Ilias Iatridis – decided to revive their family’s ancestral vineyard and start their own winery. They grew up watching their father make wine as a hobby, and the scent of grapes must have left an indelible impression. Their first label was a Malagousia; today, they produce five different wines. “We follow integrated management practices and focus mainly on Greek varieties like Mavroudi and Mavrotragano,” says Polykarpos. Annual production now reaches around 30,000 bottles, with part of it exported to Germany and the UK. Their gradual shift from international to indigenous grape varieties reflects a more mature and confident winemaking identity.
Heading southeast, past the historic Petralona Cave, where the oldest known human skull ever found in Greece was discovered, the road leads into Kassandra. There, in Kassandreia, Giannis Tzikas cultivates roughly three
hectares using strict organic methods. He adds no commercial yeast, avoids filtration, and follows a rustic, hands-on approach reminiscent of traditional Italian family winemaking, where every village proudly bottles its own harvest. His passion for the vine was inherited from his grandfather, a refugee from Asia Minor who brought his own vines with him. Tzikas began making wine in 2007, when French varieties still dominated the Greek market. “Back then, no one was interested in Greek grapes; everyone wanted Merlot and Cabernet,” he recalls. Today, he produces approximately 10,000 bottles annually, most of which are sold directly at the winery, which becomes a hub of activity during the summer season. His range now includes native grapes such as Limnio, Fokiano, and the rare black and white Kountoura varieties. “We’re in the coolest part of the first leg, with day-night temperature shifts of up to 20 degrees,” he says, even as his 22-year-old son sets up a tasting for Dutch visitors, with his wife Xanthippi always nearby.
Organic practices are also at the core of Konstantara Wines in Portaria, a low-lying village in the municipality of Propontida, an area renowned for its apricots. The winery cultivates both international and Greek varieties – Sauvignon Blanc, Viognier, Malagousia and Athiri – on a 25-hectare single-estate vineyard nestled on the slopes beneath Polygyros. Their annual production reaches 150,000 bottles, with exports to
The gradual shift from international to indigenous grape varieties reflects a more mature and confident winemaking identity for the Iatridis Estate at Lakkoma.
Αt Domaine Agrovision, for the past three years, they have also taken the remarkable step of submerging a portion of their bottles to a depth of 24 meters in the sea, seeking new organoleptic profiles.
Germany, Belgium and Albania. “We’re currently expanding our winery,” says commercial director Stratos Eleftheriadis. “Our goal is to make it fully open to visitors and to modestly increase our output, because demand has grown significantly.”
A WINE ROUTE THROUGH THE EAST Lakkoma, Kassandreia and Portaria may seem geographically disconnected, but on the eastern side of Halkidiki, a clear and captivating wine route is beginning to take shape. Four wineries, set amidst pine and oak forests, form an experience that can be completed in a single day, with wine serving as both guide and backdrop.
The journey begins in coastal Ierissos, with its commanding views of the bay. There, in the area of Xiropotamos, Domaine Agrovision was founded in 2011 by entrepreneur Yiannis Carras and his French wife. They planted five hectares of vines using clonal material from France and gradually incorporated native Greek varieties. Today, they produce around 30,000 bottles annually, selling their wines in both Greece and France. For the past three years, they have also taken the remarkable step of submerging a portion of their bottles to a depth of 24 meters in the sea, seeking new organoleptic profiles. “Some differences have been noted, though not chemical changes,” explains oenologist Thomas Kontopos.
The winery is currently undergoing renovation to accommodate visitors in upgraded facilities. Until then, one can enjoy the sunset and views of Ammouliani from the nearby “Throne of Xerxes”, a themed wooden overlook
named for the legendary Persian king because of his historic attempt to cut a canal through the peninsula.
Heading some 30 kilometers north of Ierissos into the foothills of Mt Holomontas, we reach Megali Panagia. Here, in 2007, Giorgos Tarazas and his family made the leap from grape growers to winemakers. At their elegant winery, complete with a large tasting hall, they produce 25,000 bottles annually, mostly blends of Cabernet, Merlot and Syrah. “Harvest has shifted nearly to 20 days earlier than it used to take place. Chardonnay has adapted beautifully here,” he says as we chat, the Bay of Ierissos visible in the distance.
Nearly next door is Akrathos Newlands Winery, situated at an elevation of 550 meters; organic cultivation and a strong focus on Assyrtiko help define this winery. “We want our wines to evolve; we don’t release them young. Assyrtiko needs time to reveal itself,” says co-owner and managing director Babis Bekris. In summer, the estate welcomes organized groups of visitors. Wine tourism is emerging as a key development pillar in a part of Halkidiki that has been lagging behind neighboring regions as far mainstream travel infrastructure is concerned.
Espousing a similar philosophy to that of Babis Bekris is Thanasis Livadiotis, who runs a small winery in Marathousa, a remote agricultural village. Renowned for its fresh white wines, the estate once boasted a restaurant as well, but staffing challenges in the wider region, an issue many rural winemakers face, led him to convert the space into a tastingonly venue.
Still, Halkidiki perseveres. Through wine, it is crafting a different model of growth, one rooted in cultural heritage and connected to its ancient past but ready to tell a contemporary story full of flavor, aroma and authentic enthusiasm.
Left page: Babis Bekris, CEO and co-owner of Akrathos Newlands Winery.
Right: Winemaker
Giorgos Tarazas at the family winery in Megali Panagia.
PHOTOGRAPHED BY BILL GEORGOUSSIS
(D-TALES CREATIVE AGENCY)
PHOTOGRAPHER’S ASSISTANT: PETROS MAKRIS
FASHION
FASHION EDITOR’S ASSISTANT: NATALIA DMITRIEVA
MAKE-UP AND HAIR: RENOS POLITIS (D-TALES CREATIVE AGENCY)
MODELS: GABRIELLA ZIEBA (ACE MODELS), PIOTR KUBAK (ACE MODELS)
ΑΝ ATHENS ST
ATE OF MIND
The fashion editorial that follows was photografed at the new Electra Rhythm Athens and the splendid rooftop pool of Electra Palace Athens, both perfect backdrops for summer relaxation in style.
PIOTR Swimwear by Boss (HONDOS CENTER). Sunglasses by Oliver Peoples (PANAIDIS EYEWEAR BOUTIQUE).
Gabriella Bikini by Esprit (HONDOS CENTER). Sunglasses by Celine (PANAIDIS EYEWEAR BOUTIQUE).
↑ GABRIELLA Mini dress by Cult Gaia, bag by Longchamp (ATTICA). Sunglasses by Chopard (PANAIDIS EYEWEAR BOUTIQUE). Leather slingbacks by Jimmy Choo (KALOGIROU).
← GABRIELLA Linen top and skirt by VAKKO. Earrings, necklace and ring in silver with 18K gold tone detailing, “The Greek Goddess” collection by Elena Drosou Maris (THEA). Straw basket bag (www.katsikatinos.com). Leather sandals by Kalogirou (KALOGIROU).
PIOTR Blazer, polo shirt and trousers by VAKKO. Suede shoes by Officine Creative (KALOGIROU).
↑ GABRIELLA Silk dress by Zeus+Dione (AESTHET GREEK DESIGNERS). Earrings and pendant in 18K white gold with diamonds, aquamarine and black enamel (PONIROS JEWELLERY).
→ GABRIELLA Blazer, striped shirt and palazzo trousers by Lauren Ralph Lauren (HONDOS CENTER). Earrings and pendant in 18K yellow gold with diamonds and pearls (PONIROS JEWELLERY).
← GABRIELLA Knitted polo shirt and trousers by Vassia Kostara, straw bag by Amphora (AESTHET GREEK DESIGNERS). Handwoven earrings, chain necklace and bracelet in 18K yellow gold with white diamonds, classic Athenian coin pendant (GEORGES JEWELLERY).
↑ PIOTR Silk and cotton bomber jacket, T-shirt and cotton trousers by Stefano Ricci (DIAMANTIS EXCLUSIVE MEN’S CLOTHES). Suede shoes by Kalogirou (KALOGIROU).
PIOTR Cotton shirt by Tom Tailor and trousers by Nautica (HONDOS CENTER). Sunglasses by Oliver Peoples (PANAIDIS EYEWEAR BOUTIQUE).
GABRIELLA Knitted dress by Tommy Hilfiger (ATTICA). Earrings in 18K hammered gold (GEORGES JEWELLERY). Sunglasses by Celine (PANAIDIS EYEWEAR BOUTIQUE).
← GABRIELLA Strapless jumpsuit by Nadia Rapti (AESTHET GREEK DESIGNERS). Necklace and bracelet in 18K yellow gold with diamonds (PONIROS JEWELLERY). Sunglasses by Celine (PANAIDIS EYEWEAR BOUTIQUE).
↑ GABRIELLA Bikini by D Nu D (ATTICA).
↑ GABRIELLA T-shirt and capri trousers by Staud, leather bag by Jacquemus (ATTICA). Necklace and ring in silver 925 with gold finish and mother-of-pearl, bracelets in silver 925 by Elena Drosou Maris (THEA). Sunglasses by Gucci (PANAIDIS EYEWEAR BOUTIQUE). Leather mules by Amina Muaddi (KALOGIROU).
→ GABRIELLA Linen dress by Alemais (ATTICA). Earrings in 18K white gold with white diamonds and emeralds, ring in 18K white and yellow gold with diamonds (PONIROS JEWELLERY). Leather sandals by Haralas.
PIOTR Linen and silk jacket and cotton trousers by Incotex (ATTICA).
↑
GABRIELLA Crochet top and skirt, raffia and leather clutch by VAKKO. Earrings, motif necklace with reversible coin pendant, and “Greek Key” bracelets in 18K white and yellow gold (GEORGES JEWELLERY). Leather sandals by Di Gaïa (AESTHET GREEK DESIGNERS).
PIOTR Suede jacket, cotton T-shirt and linen trousers by VAKKO. Suede shoes by Kalogirou (KALOGIROU).
← GABRIELLA Maxi dress by Join Clothes (FORGET ME NOT). Hoop earrings, choker necklace and bangle bracelets in 18K yellow hammered gold (GEORGES JEWELLERY).
From breathtaking rooftop views to leafy courtyards and lively urban corners, the restaurants of Electra Hotels in Athens offer experiences to suit every taste. Carefully crafted dishes, thoughtfully designed spaces, and a warm sense of hospitality embody the brand’s contemporary culinary philosophy.
By Marina Petridou, Photos: Yiorgos Vellis
The Focal Rooftop Restaurant with views of the Acropolis.
FOCAL
Στην
Perched on the rooftop of the brand-new Electra Rhythm Athens, Focal combines sweeping views of the Acropolis with a menu that reimagines Greek cuisine with warmth and familiarity. The flavors are refined yet familiar, like a leisurely Sunday lunch with creative twists. Dimitris Siozos, Executive Chef Electra Rhythm and his team breathe new life into beloved dishes: tomato fritters are served with spicy feta foam, meatballs come with a slow-roasted tomato sauce, and risotto is made with fresh shrimp, asparagus, and saffron from Kozani. The menu offers a balanced mix of seafood and meat, with standouts that include grilled calamari with smoked eggplant as well as lamb sujuk with golden fries: menu items evoking carefree summer days by the sea or in a mountain village. Desserts add a local twist to the finish: galaktoboureko is reinvented with cinnamon ice cream instead of custard, while a rich chocolate mousse gets a lift from apricot sauce. The wine list focuses on Greek wines, featuring a selection of labels truly worth discovering.
Ten floors above the city at Electra Metropolis, this rooftop favorite blends classic Greek flavors with international flair. Known as much for its refined cuisine as for its panoramic Acropolis view, the FNL award-winning Metropolis Roof Garden is where Athenians go for everything from business lunches to family dinners. The menu, curated by Haris Zevgoulis (Executive Chef at Electra Metropolis) and Stefanos Roditis (Chef de Cuisine at Metropolis Roof Garden), opens with exquisite starters, such as the Greek buffalo burrata with asparagus, Greek prosciutto, wild arugula pesto, roasted hazelnuts and argan oil, or the shrimp tartare paired with herb-infused tarama, sour apple consommé, celery and chili. Pasta and risotto dishes showcase both technique and creativity: spaghetti with cuttlefish and wild greens pesto, or artisanal orzo from Mt Taygetos with beef confit and freshly shaved summer truffle. Mains such as fresh cod gently cooked in its own broth or the catch of the day served with traditional local pasta celebrate Greece’s regional cuisines with finesse. Desserts bring the experience to an elegant close with options such as the silky yuzu lemon cream with caramelized pineapple and coconut foam, the bitter chocolate mousse with hazelnut crumble, or the fragrant lemon preserve. The wine list includes both Greek and international wines, with handpicked labels to pair with each course. The knowledgeable sommeliers are there to guide you, whether you’re in the mood for something familiar or eager to explore an indigenous grape variety that may surprise and delight you.
Minimalist and modern, with natural textures and elegant mosaic details, LOBBY offers a warm, welcoming space in the heart of the city. Here, the focus is on imaginative sliders and burgers, crafted with care and served on high-quality, freshly baked brioche buns. Executive Chef Haris Zevgoulis has designed a menu that blends comfort food with gourmet flair: think Black Angus cheeseburger with mustard and pickles, crispy cod slider with tartar sauce, or plant-based hot dogs for vegetarian diners. Other hits include Black Angus meatballs glazed in a sweet-and-spicy sauce or the grilled corn topped with aromatic butter and spicy yogurt dressing. The drinks list features signature cocktails and a carefully curated selection of 15 Greek craft beers, completing the relaxed, urban dining experience. Whether its a quick lunch, a casual date night or a post-shopping pit stop, LOBBY fits every urban appetite.
30 Voulis, Syntagma, Tel. (+30) 214.100.6225
ELECTRA ROOF GARDEN
On the 8th floor of the Electra Palace Athens, this rooftop dining room offers sweeping Athenian panoramas taking in everything from the Acropolis to Plaka and Lycabettus Hill. Here, Mediterranean flavors meet inventive techniques in a setting that invites you to slow down and savor your meal. The menu is designed for sharing, celebrating the richness of Greek ingredients in creative new ways. From beetroot-marinated smoked salmon with tomato pesto, pickled cucumber, and dill to tender lamb served with corn “risotto,” every plate is a tribute to modern Mediterranean cooking. The menu by Dimitris Patsouros, Executive Chef at Electra Palace Athens, also features bold combinations, such as the signature lobster linguine with bouillabaisse sauce, Florina pepper cream, and Messolonghi bottarga; the ricotta-stuffed pelmeni with asparagus and truffle butter; or the risotto with avocado-pistachio pesto – daring yet balanced creations that prove how successful experimentation can unlock new dimensions of flavor. The wine list features more than 90 Greek and international labels. From sparkling wines and champagnes to still whites, rosés, and reds – as well as premium dessert wines to end your meal on a high note – every selection has been chosen for its ability to enhance your culinary experience.
Situated in the lush courtyard of Electra Palace Athens, zohós is an oasis in the heart of the city. Here, neoclassical elegance meets natural freshness, creating a serene setting that invites you to unwind. Award-winning Executive Chef Electra Hotels & Resorts Sakis Venetis drew inspiration from Greece’s rich culinary heritage to craft a menu of modern meze and main dishes that look at traditional flavors through a contemporary lens. The menu is rooted in seasonal ingredients sourced from small-scale producers, and guided by a zero-waste, nose-to-tail ethos. Most of the dishes are designed for sharing: onion pie with Mykonos tyrovolia cheese, herbs, and molasses; crispy Gulf shrimp with grilled lemon, dill, and spices; grilled calamari with Sifnos-style revithada (chickpea stew); and grilled veal meatballs with smoked tomato sauce, aromatic yogurt, potato, and handmade pita. The warm crisp-crust bread is the perfect companion to the house-made dips, while desserts such as lemon mousse with dill meringue and cucumber sorbet offer refreshing variations on Greek classics. The wine list features over 60 Greek labels – from Crete, Samos, Santorini, Metsovo, Florina, Serres and elsewhere – each carefully selected for its ability to match the nuanced flavors of the menu. Zohós’ signature cocktails, infused with ouzo, tsikoudia, Greek herbs, and honey, deliver a taste of Greece in every sip.
Where Greece’s vibrant brewing scene and creative cuisine join forces with the downtown energy of Athens.
By
Marina Petridou, Photos: Angelos Giotopoulos
NOT JUST A BEER BAR
Morning, noon or night, there is always something on tap to raise your spirits at Rebels Brew.
In recent years, Greece’s craft beer scene has seen remarkable growth. What began as a hobby for a passionate few has become a nationwide movement, with an ever-growing number of small breweries releasing an exciting array of fresh, unfiltered, characterful beers that are complex in flavor, rich in aroma and made with knowledge and care. This renaissance has cultivated a new generation of beer lovers who are curious, qualitydriven and eager to explore brews that balance innovation with tradition.
This momentum inspired the creation of Rebels Brew, a venue designed to embody the spirit of contemporary Athens: creative, sociable and unpretentiously cool. Located on the ground floor of Electra Rhythm Athens, the space reflects modern design sensibilities – minimalist lines, natural light and elegant finishes – while maintaining an inviting, relaxed atmosphere. Whether you’re winding down after a walk through Plaka or taking a break from shopping in the city center, it’s a place to pause and enjoy.
The menu takes traditional Greek flavors and gives them a refined, modern twist. Every dish is prepared with care and a keen eye for detail, using fresh ingredients sourced from across the country. Start with a homemade wild greens pie drizzled with scented geranium molasses, some crispy pastry bites filled with roasted pepper hummus, or a plate of delicately charred Serres peppers sprinkled with fleur de sel and almond cream. Lighter options, such as the Cretanstyle salad of barley rusk from Kythira soaked in olive oil and finished with marinated tomato, are just as yummy. For something heartier, try the grilled veal meatballs wrapped in warm pita, perfect as a snack or a full meal.
Beer enthusiasts will be pleased to discover a curated list of nearly twenty bottled labels, alongside a rotating selection on tap. The beers are sourced from independent microbreweries from various places across Greece, including Thessaloniki, Serres, Mykonos, Folegandros and Ikaria. Highlights include a crisp ale from Ikariotissa brewery, the refreshing bitterness of Katsika Pilsner, and a wheat-forward Weiss from Santorini’s White Donkey that will pair perfectly with your meal. Adventurous drinkers can explore Mikonu’s sour beer, uniquely infused with Cycladic prickly pear for a tangy, sun-kissed finish.
For those avoiding alcohol, Rebels Brew offers an equally interesting selection of non-alcoholic alternatives: expertly brewed specialty coffees, premium herbal teas and infusions by Anassa, artisanal sodas by Three Cents and Kliafa, and a wonderfully refreshing lemonade scented with Chios mastiha, ideal for cooling down at any time of day. ♦
Beer enthusiasts will be pleased to discover a curated list of nearly twenty bottled labels, alongside a rotating selection on tap. The beers are sourced from independent microbreweries from various places across Greece, including Thessaloniki, Serres, Mykonos, Folegandros and Ikaria.
ELECTRA ART SPACE
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Electra Art Space
WORLDS ON PAPER
This summer, artworks on paper take center stage at Electra Art Space, inviting viewers into a realm of texture, color, and quiet transformation.
By Xenia Georgiadou
In the sunlit window of Electra Art Space on Mitropoleos Street, sculpted paper children and metallic figures by Dimitris Korovesis strike a silent dialogue with a nearby watercolor by Achilleas Razis, where musicians and dancers in traditional dress perform in soft yet vibrant movements. Just beyond them, within the elegant confines of the Electra Metropolis Hotel, a deeper conversation unfolds between material and imagination, place and memory.
Since 2018, the hotel has partnered with Skoufa Gallery to host art exhibitions that resonate with the city's cultural heartbeat. This summer’s show, titled “Art on Paper,” is no exception. Curated by Irini Papageorgiou, the exhibition brings together a compelling collection of drawings, watercolors and sculptural works made from handmade paper and paper pulp. Here, paper is not just a surface, but a material full of expressive possibility. “Despite its fragility, paper has enormous potential,” Papageorgiou explains. “Depending on the treatment – pencil, charcoal, ink, pastel, watercolor, acrylic, or even oil – it is entirely different. And often, paper itself becomes the tool of expression. It can be folded, torn, crumpled or layered into a collage or sculptural form.”
The gallery space has become a kind of poetic landscape. In one corner, ceramic beachgoers by Angeliki Makri stretch lazily in the imagined sun, their posture echoed by Kalliopi Asargiotaki’s watercolors of bathing women. Elsewhere, maritime echoes appear: Theologos Panagiotidis’ timeworn metal hulls and Panagiotis Pougaridis’ radiant metal ship are eye-catching but must compete with Irini Kana’s floating paper boats, small in scale but rich in impact. From Maria Giannakaki’s delicately inked tamarisks and the
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Electra Art Space
On the ground floor of the Electra Metropolis Hotel, 15 Mitropoleos & Voulis, skoufagallery.gr
handmade paper creations of Margarita Skokou to Antonis Staveris’ watercolors and Andreas Psarakos’ bicycles made of paper pulp, this is an exhibition that celebrates spontaneity, lightness and material exploration. “We wanted to highlight works drawn or painted on paper, as they are often viewed as less important than paintings on canvas,” says Papageorgiou. “And yet often, these pieces are created with more freedom, allowing the artists’ creativity to unfold without filters.” Electra Art Space has become known for shows that engage both hotel guests and casual passersby on bustling Mitropoleos Street. In March 2024, an exhibition devoted to the Evzones (the Presidential Guard) featuring photographs, paintings and ceramics met with warm public response. And in November, a whimsical show dedicated to the tsarouhi, the traditional footwear of the Evzones, showcased the ceramic artistry of Christina Morali.Is there a particular curatorial lens that guides the selection of works? “I think – perhaps unconsciously – we tend to highlight pieces with a distinctly Greek character,” says Papageorgiou. “We want visitors to take away images of Greece, whether through the subject matter or the materials used.”♦
/ MARGARITA SKOKOU
The journey that began on Ermou Street in 1965 continues with the same unwavering commitment to heartfelt, high-quality hospitality.
This year, Electra Hotels & Resorts celebrates 60 years of continuous evolution, a journey guided by enduring values and a clear vision for the future.
From our very first hotel to today’s new investments, our story has been written with consistency, respect and purpose. In this anniversary tribute, we meet the leaders shaping the company’s path forward, as well as some of our team members, old and new. We share our latest news and explore the milestones and ideas that are defining a new era for Electra Hotels & Resorts.
and Resorts
Gerasimos Fokas, President Electra Hotels and Resorts
ΑΞΊΕΣ ΖΩΉΣ
"How are you, our dear Mr. Fokas?" the young hostess calls out warmly as we step onto the rooftop garden of the Electra Metropolis on a bright June morning. It’s a expression of familiarity towards her employer, but it speaks volumes about the atmosphere he has cultivated within the company. When I point this out, Gerasimos Fokas, a Permanent President of the Officials and a pioneering figure in Greek tourism since the 1960s, responds without hesitation: “We're like a family – there are about a thousand of us. I know how to recognize effort and hard work. At 92, I’ve lived through a lot, but what matters most to me – besides offering our guests the best possible experience – is staying fair and loyal to our suppliers and staff. I didn’t come from money. I learned early on what ‘survival’ really means.”
Fokas is not exaggerating. Born and raised in a small village in Kefalonia, he vividly remembers the day his father died during the German occupation, a moment that marked the end of childhood and the beginning of responsibility. His mother, suddenly widowed and left to raise four children alone, leaned heavily on young Gerasimos. One of his brothers was bedridden with periarthritis; the youngest, just eleven, knew someone had to step up.
LIFE VALUES
At 92, the iconic hotelier remains devoted to principles stronger than profit.
By Margarita Pournara
“The secret to life is to look up –but not straight up, because that might fill you with fear. At an angle. That way, you can keep moving forward and gradually reach your goals.”
service, behavior, integrity. Because you’re not just representing yourself. You’re representing your country.” On this, Fokas is passionate. “All my life, I’ve despised profiteering, greed and negligence. These things have no place in our company. We protect our name. In tourism, quality must be the foundation. Everything else – mark my words – has short legs. You might see quick profits, but it won’t last. In the end, it damages not only the business but the product itself. When I hear of people charging a fortune for a subpar room or a plate of crab legs, it saddens me deeply. That’s not just bad service – it’s bad for Greece.”
“The secret to life when you start from a difficult position,” he says, “is to look up – but not straight up, because that might fill you with fear. At an angle. That way, you can keep moving forward and gradually reach your goals.” His own journey began with hardship: orphaned at a young age, coming of age in a time of poverty. The family survived with a few vineyards, olive trees, and a small, shared mill. Despite the challenges, he managed to study at the Athens University of Economics and Business, fulfilling one of the few wishes he remembers his father expressing to his mother: “This child must go to school.”
If there’s one thought that still saddens him today, it’s that the education system back then couldn’t offer children the solid foundation they deserved.
During the summer after his first year of university, Fokas took a seasonal job at the famed Grande Albergo Delle Rose in Rhodes. “They put me in a tiny room above the kitchen. I worked at the front desk – I barely spoke English – but I did everything, even carried luggage. I always made sure to look neat, be polite, and represent the hotel well. I had no background in tourism – I was a village boy. But there I was, in one of the finest hotels in the Mediterranean.”
That summer proved life-changing. He found himself surrounded by discerning international guests – ambassadors, bankers, dignitaries – well before mass tourism changed the game. It ignited a passion that led him to work at another hotel in Athens the following year. One role led to the next. He learned the business inside out – from operations and guest services to finance – and traveled abroad to study how hospitality was practiced in more advanced European markets.
He was fortunate to meet his wife, Eleni, and together they built a life that gave him the space and strength to achieve everything he set out to do.
In 1963, together with Thomas Svyriadis, he leased and operated the Hotel Lycabettus. A year later, the first Electra Hotel opened on Ermou Street in Athens. Their team now included a third partner: Thanassis Retsos.
This year, Gerasimos Fokas marks 71 years in the tourism industry, while the Electra Group celebrates its 60th anniversary. Fokas is an undisputed pioneer of organized Greek hospitality, having built a company that continues to innovate and has earned respect and trust both in Greece and abroad.
“I still love this work,” he says. “In hospitality, no matter your role – junior or senior – you have to love people. Of course, we work to earn money, but you must honor the money people spend with us. You give back more, through
I ask how he views the recent spike in travel prices, which has made vacations increasingly inaccessible for many Greeks. “Our fellow citizens want to enjoy their holidays fully – they don’t like to cut corners. That’s why we must respect every guest who walks through our doors. Vacations are sacred, whether for Greeks or international visitors. We must honor the money we earn. At the same time, especially in Athens, we need to do better in supporting the daily life of locals during the tourist season. Take traffic, for instance – people still need to get to work. Our infrastructure must keep up. Without that, not only does everyday life suffer, but tourism itself can’t grow. Nothing can flourish at the expense of something else. Without balance, everything eventually collapses.”
With his wife, Eleni Foka.
Yiannis Retsos Chief Executive Officer Electra Hotels and Resorts
With his ever-present smile and an unshakable sense of optimism, Yiannis Retsos is one of the most influential figures in Greek tourism today. For years, he has helmed Electra Hotels & Resorts, while also serving the broader industry through key leadership roles: he is currently President of the Foundation for Economic and Industrial Reasearch, and has formerly served as president of Greek Tourism Confederation (SETE), as well as the Hellenic Hoteliers Federation (HHF) and the Athens-Attica & Argosaronic Hotel Association. Few have contributed as decisively in steering Greek tourism through the stormy waters of the debt crisis and the pandemic – building partnerships, brokering consensus and bridging gaps between the public and private sectors. At the same time, alongside his partners and close associates, he has led Electra Hotels down a path of sustainable growth, a mission he is still on. “It’s been, without a doubt, an extraordinary journey, especially when you consider that over the past 12 or 13 years we’ve had to manage some incredibly complex situations: first the financial crisis, then the pandemic,” Retsos reflects. “The pressure was immense, both from a sector-wide standpoint and within our own company. And yet, despite the challenges, I believe we came through it well. So, if I had to sum it up: a tough exercise, but with a positive outcome.” Still, Retsos is quick to warn that Greek tourism now finds itself at a critical juncture, surrounded by a new wave of domestic and global challenges.
LEAD WITH A VISION
A commitment to the Electra Group’s timeless values, the challenges ahead, and the goals for the future.
Interview by Ilias G. Bellos
στην Ελλάδα καταγράφει συνεχή αναπτυξιακή
πορεία
You manage one of the country’s most historic hotel groups – with a strong presence in Athens, Thessaloniki and beyond, and you also had a vital role representing the tourism sector with three consecutive terms as President of the Greek Tourism Confederation (SETE). How did you balance such demanding responsibilities?
When I first became actively involved in tourism advocacy, I approached it from a different perspective. I’ve always believed that the earlier one engages in collective efforts – while still actively pursuing their professional career –the better it is, both for the individual and the industry. When you’re young, you have more stamina, your thinking is fresher and more agile, and your vision for the future tends to be bolder and more progressive. The only thing you lack is experience; but that, of course, comes with time. But everything else – energy, clarity of vision and resilience – are things you can’t necessarily regain later on.
So that was the path I chose to follow. It was a demanding exercise, but one that yielded positive results. Today, I’ve stepped back from active tourism advocacy. As President of the Foundation for Economic and Industrial Research (IOBE), my public commitments outside the company are now far less intensive. Nonetheless, and although it’s in the past now, it all was, without question, a tremendous experience, especially considering that, over the past 12 or 13 years, we had to navigate extremely difficult circumstances: first the financial crisis, then the pandemic. The pressure was intense, both at the collective level and within the company. Still, despite the challenges, I believe things ultimately turned out well.
What are your long-term plans for Electra Hotels & Resorts? You’re already expanding with a second property in Thessaloniki. What is your vision for the years ahead?
We are indeed in a period of heightened activity. For the past three years, we’ve been rolling out an extensive renovation program across our portfolio. In Thessaloniki, we completed a major investment during the pandemic to fully refurbish our Electra Palace Hotel there. Just a few days ago, we reopened the very first Electra hotel on Ermou Street in Athens, following a complete renovation and under a new name: Electra Rhythm Athens.
Over the past three years, we’ve been steadily renovating the Electra Palace Athens in Plaka. In Rhodes, we’re undertaking another major investment, which includes a medium to long-term expansion of the resort. These initiatives are all focused on our existing portfolio.
In parallel – and as you rightly noted – we’re also developing a new hotel in Thessaloniki, right in the heart of the city, on Tsimiski Street. This will be a newly built, 160-room luxury property on a prime site – an ambitious project in every sense. So, yes, the Group is actively pursuing expansion plans.
At the national level, both in terms of arrivals and revenue, I would consider it a success if we simply manage to maintain last year’s performance. However, based on current data, the global economic outlook and trends in our key source markets, I have a sense that next year may mark the first decline we’ve seen in a very long time.
We’re also undertaking a very important initiative: the complete rebranding of Electra, both at the hotel level and at the level of the parent company. Our goal is to refresh our image and renew the Group’s identity, following 60 years of successful presence in the market. This rebranding project, which is taking place in stages, will be completed by the end of 2025.
Alongside the rebranding, we’re working to establish solid operational processes across the organization, so that the Electra philosophy is fully embraced by our teams and reflected in every guest experience. This philosophy, which was conceived 60 years ago, has evolved over the decades and adapted to the realities of the present. Now, it must look ahead to anticipate what’s next and continue securing the Group’s long-term success.
Do you believe Greek tourism can continue growing at the same impressive pace we’ve seen in recent years?
Tourism in Greece has been on a steady upward trajectory since 2015-2016. As you know, 2019 was a landmark year, a record in terms of performance for the decade. That momentum was, of course, disrupted by the pandemic in 2020 and 2021. But from 2022 onward, we saw a strong resurgence, with growth not only recovering but actually surpassing 2019 levels.
It has been a truly remarkable journey, especially given the difficult conditions we’ve faced: first a prolonged financial crisis, then a pandemic that brought the entire industry to a standstill. However, we shouldn’t expect growth to continue unabated year after year, particularly if the necessary measures to ensure long-term sustainability aren’t put in place.
In my view, we’ve now reached a point of stabilization, a kind of plateau. It’s still early to predict how this year will unfold, but my expectation is that results will be mixed. Certain destinations may outperform last year, while others could see a decline.
At the national level, both in terms of arrivals and revenue, I would consider it a success if we simply manage to maintain last year’s performance. However, based on current data, the global economic outlook and trends in our key source markets, I have a sense that next year may mark the first decline we’ve seen in a very long time.
What concerns you most when you look toward the future – both in terms of your business and the broader Greek economy?
A business is like a tree – it cannot truly thrive if the forest around it is not healthy. So, from a company perspective, I believe we’re doing everything in our power, and the results suggest we’re doing it succcessfully. What concerns me more is how tourism will evolve – both globally and here in Greece. At the moment, we’re facing many serious sources of uncertainty. There are multiple risks looming. The global economy is unsettled. The policies of Donald Trump – which no one has really managed to decipher, and perhaps not even he fully knows what direction he wants to take – are creating significant insecurity in the markets. And this has a direct impact on the regions that matter most to us: the European and American markets. That’s one area I find particularly troubling for the near term.
At the same time, we’re seeing heightened geopolitical instability. Ongoing conflicts are having a real and
A business is like a tree – it cannot truly thrive if the forest around it is not healthy. So, from a company perspective, I believe we’re doing everything in our power, and the results suggest we’re doing it succcessfully.
immediate effect on the international climate. This makes the outlook for both this year and the next extremely uncertain. The overall sense is that long-term projections have become nearly impossible. The landscape is so fluid that any forecast right now risks being more speculation than analysis.
Before the disruptions of recent years, the data pointed to sustained global growth in tourism – driven by demographics, increasing wealth in the West, and various macroeconomic factors. I don’t believe that trend has been reversed. But at this moment, we are living through a period of extreme volatility and sweeping change.
If you had a magic lamp, what three wishes would you make – whether related to tourism, your business, the Greek economy or anything else you consider vital for the future?
The first thing I would wish for is the power to convince everyone – and by “everyone” I don’t just mean the government, but also tourism professionals, local communities, and citizens – that tourism is an incredibly important sector for the country, and that for it to thrive, and continue doing so, it needs a clear strategy, just like any other vital part of the economy.
At present, we’re still more or less operating on autopilot. There is no systematic effort to identify root challenges or craft a strategic framework for addressing them with solutions that are part of a broader, long-term vision for the growth and evolution of tourism. In my view, this has long been the fundamental weakness of Greek tourism: the lack of strategic planning and the failure to truly acknowledge its significance.
My second wish would be for the company to be filled with new beginnings, positive developments, and joyful moments in the years ahead, however many they may be. Even if these moments don’t match the achievements of our first sixty years, I hope they’ll be enough to give the Electra family the continued sense that we’re building something meaningful.
As for my third wish – on a more personal note – I’d wish for something to happen, a moment or milestone, that would bring me deep satisfaction and joy. Something I could look back on with a genuine sense of pride. ♦
Electra Palace Thessaloniki
Alexandros Svyriadis, General Manager, Electra Palace Thessaloniki
It was early summer when I met Alexandros Svyriadis in the lounge of Electra Palace Thessaloniki. A gracious host, he welcomed me as if I were a guest in his own home. And in a way, this hotel is his home. Not only has he served as General Manager for the past three and a half years, but he also grew up within its walls. His grandfather, Thomas Svyriadis, was one of the founding members of the Electra Hotels & Resorts group.
What are some of your earliest memories of the hotel?
Many of my childhood summers were spent at the Electra Palace Rhodes, where I’d visit my grandfather Thomas and my grandmother Eleni. I remember playing in the pools and eating Neapolitan pasta made by our chef. I also remember my grandfather’s smile; he was a very outgoing man and always close to the staff. I also have memories of Aristotelous Square – concerts, political rallies, and the big New Year’s Eve celebrations.
What drew you to the world of tourism?
Even though I’d always pictured myself taking over Electra in Thessaloniki one day, tourism wasn’t my original path. I initially gravitated toward the sciences and went on to study business administration in the UK. After that, I tried working in the banking sector, but it didn’t excite me. One summer, I worked in hotel service on the island of Skopelos, and that experience led me to pursue a master’s in hospitality management in New York. I then spent two and a half years with a hospitality consultancy firm in the UK and eventually returned to Athens where I worked for the Electra Hotels & Resorts group. One step led to the next.
PEOPLE FIRST
The General Manager of Electra Palace Thessaloniki, grandson of one of its co-founders, shares memories of the hotel that he loved as a child and the principles of genuine hospitality that still inspire him today.
What are the biggest challenges facing tourism today? How have things changed since your father entered the field?
So much has changed, but the biggest shift, in my view, is how information is accessed. Back then, booking a hotel meant leafing through printed brochures. Now, everything is digital and immediate. It’s a completely new world, one where everything is connected.
Nowadays, every property is exposed to online comments, some of which can be borderline extortionate. And rightly or wrongly, they do influence bookings to some extent.
Reviews are now part of the game, and you have to manage them. On the one hand, they offer an opportunity to listen to your guests and evaluate your services. On the other hand, you have to respond to bad-faith comments with professionalism and grace.
Do you believe automation – such as the use of robots – has a place in hospitality? Will we soon see machines taking over guest service due to staffing shortages?
I don’t think that’s the future of tourism. There are already
The ‘Greece’ brand still has immense potential. Our location on the world map is truly privileged; it connects three continents, has an ideal climate, and offers visitors an incredible wealth of things to see and do.
hotels that are fully digital, where guests interact with no one at all, and even some that use robots. But for us, true hospitality goes hand in hand with human warmth and sincere care, things that simply cannot be automated. Technology should be used to solve operational challenges, but it must be evaluated carefully and only applied when it truly aligns with the experience we aim to offer.
Has the food and beverage segment become a headache for hoteliers these days? Can highlevel hospitality exist without a commitment to gastronomy?
Hotel restaurants are an opportunity not just to care for our guests, but also to share part of the experience we offer with locals and other non-guests. Yes, there are significant challenges, such as staff shortages, but these are now common across many sectors. Ultimately, it’s the people – not the buildings – that make a hotel. That’s why we constantly strive to improve our working environment and offer meaningful incentives to our team, such as generous benefits for new parents. We prioritize our people, knowing that exceptional guest service is a reflection of a strong internal culture.
How do you see Greece’s tourism product evolving? Can the country handle more visitors?
The “Greece” brand still has immense potential. Our location on the world map is truly privileged; it connects three continents, has an ideal climate, and offers visitors an incredible wealth of things to see and do. What we need now is thoughtful development that respects the environment; proper infrastructure; and new, experience-driven tourism products.
How do you respond to modern trends such as sustainability and personalized service?
Sustainability is a core focus for us. Whether it’s eliminating plastic water bottles, switching to amenity dispensers, or upgrading the energy efficiency of our buildings, our goal is to reduce our environmental footprint meaningfully, not just symbolically.
My vision is to help pass on the founders’ DNA to the next generations; in other words, to preserve the soul of our brand. At the same time, I’d love to see us expand with a few more hotels.
TIMELINE
1965
A visionary group of Greek entrepreneurs opened the very first Electra hotel on Ermou Street in downtown Athens, today the brand new Electra Rhythm Athens. The property instantly attracted both business and leisure travelers, laying the foundation for more than a half-century of hospitality excellence.
Electra Palace Thessaloniki debuted in Aristotelous Square, quickly becoming a city landmark. Its grandeur and prime location transformed it into a favorite for both locals and visitors.
1973 ELECTRA
In the charming Plaka neighborhood of Athens, Electra Palace Athens opened its doors. Combining classical architecture with luxury amenities and Acropolis views, it carved its niche in the cityscape.
A JOURNEY THROUGH TIME
1975
ELECTRA PALACE RHODES
Ο
Electra Palace Rhodes,
2016
ELECTRA METROPOLIS ATHENS Το Electra Metropolis
2020
ELECTRA KEFALONIA HOTEL & SPA
The Electra Palace Rhodes marked the brand's debut on the Greek islands. This resort-style property captured the summerdestination spirit with spacious rooms and relaxed elegance.
Electra Metropolis Athens was unveiled at the start of Mitropoleos Street, steps from Syntagma Square. Designed by Patroklos Karantinos, this fivestar hotel boasts retro-chic style, an artistic spirit and rooftop views of the Acropolis.
Electra extended its reach to the Ionian Sea with Electra Kefalonia Hotel & Spa, bringing the group’s signature warmth and refined ambiance to this cherished Aegean island.
2025
ELECTRA RHYTHM ATHENS Το Electra Hotel
Athens’ first Electra hotel, the historic Electra Athens, has been fully renovated and reintroduced as Electra Rhythm. Located on lively Ermou Street near Syntagma Square, the reimagined hotel combines contemporary design and vibrant urban energy, bringing a new tempo to Athenian hospitality.
ΑΠΟΤΥΠΩΜΑ
Για
POSITIVE IMPACT
At Electra Hotels & Resorts, values such as sustainability and social impact are brought to life through daily practice.
Firmly rooted in the principles of responsible hospitality, Electra Hotels & Resorts continues to build a sustainable ecosystem that delivers high-level guest experiences while generating meaningful value for society, the environment and its people. At the heart of its evolving ESG strategy is a clear and consistent focus: human care, support for local communities, environmental responsibility and a workplace culture that fosters inclusion, growth and wellbeing.
In 2024, the Group placed particular emphasis on its three core pillars: Environment – Society – People.
ENVIRONMENT The Group continued to implement green practices across its hotels, earning the Green Key certification, as well as the internationally recognized ISO 50001:2018 standard for optimal energy management. In line with its commitment to conserving natural resources, Electra adopted e-invoicing, significantly reducing paper and energy consumption.
At a local level, Electra Palace Rhodes participated in a reforestation initiative in the scorched grounds of the Monastery of Panagia Ypseni, supporting the restoration of the natural landscape in collaboration with the organization “For Nature”.
SOCIETY In 2024, Electra Hotels continued its long-standing support for vulnerable communities in Athens, Thessaloniki, and Rhodes, donating food, clothing and essential supplies. More than 2,100 hot meals were prepared and distributed, and the Group also provided household equipment and furnishings to families affected by the wildfires in Penteli, in collaboration with the Family Support Centre (K.E.S.O.).
Electra employees played an active role in a number of efforts, collecting gifts for the “Melissa” Girls’ Orphanage in Thessaloniki, toys for children in need through the City of Athens Solidarity Hub, and pet food and supplies for “The Ghosts of Aspropyrgos,” a volunteer group caring for stray animals.
The Group also participated in a professional integration program for adults with intellectual disabilities, in partnership with the Margarita Vocational Training Centre. Through job shadowing and specialized training, one hiring was successfully completed,
promoting inclusion and the development of individuals with neurodevelopmental disorders. The program will continue in 2025, offering more employment opportunities.
PEOPLE Caring for its people remains a constant priority for Electra Hotels & Resorts. For the third consecutive year, the Electra Group was recognized as a Great Place to Work®, while also receiving a Gold Award in the CR Index 2024–2025. Our priorities remain our people and their continuous development. In 2024, employee support was strengthened through a 24/7 mental health helpline and nutritional counseling services. Employees were also encouraged to participate in social and athletic events, including blood drives, the charity event Race for the Cure, local marathons and corporate sports events in Athens, Thessaloniki and Rhodes.
Education was another key focus, with 7,407 hours of training delivered – a 60% increase compared to 2023 – reinforcing the Group’s commitment to ongoing professional development.
With the signing of the Diversity Charter, Electra further affirms its dedication to a workplace culture grounded in equality, respect and meaningful inclusion.
THEIR SECOND HOME
They represent different generations, yet embody the same philosophy of heartfelt hospitality. Nine members of the Electra family share their stories.
By Nena Dimitriou & John Papadimitriou
Electra Palace Roof Garden.
Assistant
Electra
Maria Papamichelaki
Captain, Electra Metropolis Athens With us since 2016
I’ve been working here since the day the hotel opened. From the beginning, I took on a supervisory role in the F&B department and had the joy of witnessing everything take shape. I remember that first day vividly: welcoming our first guests, all of us strangers to one another, from different departments, yet somehow managing to find our rhythm. There was excitement, nervousness and a powerful sense of anticipation. We knew something important was beginning, and we all showed up with our hearts fully in it.
Over the years, my team and I have built a deep bond of trust. It’s not just about working together; it’s about the connection that grows when you truly care for and rely on one another. I genuinely feel that we operate like one big family at the Electra Group. We each come in as individuals, with different roles and backgrounds, but over time, we become one. We belong to something greater than ourselves, that shared culture and those shared values.
I can’t quite remember how I felt about all this when I first joined, but today, the feeling of belonging is stronger than ever.
Sofia Papamichelaki
Assistant Housekeeping Supervisor, Electra Rhythm Athens With us since 2014
My first day here was intense, but my colleagues welcomed me right away, and I immediately felt like part of the team. My current team – 26 people in total – is more than just a group of coworkers. We’ve shared challenges and successes together. There’s honesty, mutual support and real, personal connection.
One memory that stands out for me is from the spring of 2016. One of the owners, the late Thanasis Retsos, came down one morning to enjoy his coffee in our little garden, a cozy spot in the inner courtyard accessible through room 214. He could have chosen to sit anywhere –somewhere with a view of the Acropolis, or beside the pool. Instead, he made his own coffee and sat in the garden, where the seasonal planting was underway in order to make it even greener. It was a simple, beautiful moment, and I felt lucky to be present for it.
To me, hospitality is about creating a space where guests feel comfortable, safe and respected. At first, I focused entirely on doing my job well: cleanliness, order, precision. But over time, I’ve come to see it as much more; it’s about offering comfort and care, in every sense.
FAMILY TIES
Maria and Sofia are sisters. Maria’s husband also works for the Electra Group; Daniil Tsagkaridis is the chef at the Electra Palace Roof Garden.
My role involves ordering food, beverages and consumables; managing internal distribution to departments; and overseeing the storerooms. What has kept me here, above all, is the family spirit. I’ve had the privilege of meeting all the owners, and I’ve always felt that their concern for and their interest in the people working here was truly genuine.
Over time, professional security, recognition of hard work and fair reward made me feel like I was growing right alongside the company. After so many years, we now share common values: honesty, reliability and a sense of fairness in how we treat one another.
One of the most unforgettable experiences was during the Olympic Games, when we hosted official delegations and accredited representatives. For nearly two months, the atmosphere was like a celebration, and I felt it, too. Even though my work is behind the scenes and not directly guest-facing, I still feel part of the overall experience we offer.
To me, hospitality is about finding the balance between professionalism and a deeply human touch.
Miltiadis Apostolidis
Procurement Department, Electra Hotels Athens With us since 1998
When I first started working as a waiter, I couldn’t believe I was stepping into the Electra. I certainly never imagined I’d become the hotel’s longest-serving employee. I remember my first day; I was so nervous. There was a pianist at the entrance of the Grill Room restaurant, and a conductor, too. The atmosphere felt so elegant. Guests would have a drink at the bar before sitting down for dinner. Ten years later, with a short break in between for my military service, I changed roles and became a bellman. I’ve welcomed countless well-known guests over the years – from Tom Hanks and Danny Glover to Willem Dafoe and Manos Hatzidakis. Among Greek celebrities, Tolis Voskopoulos and Manolis Lidakis stood out to me; they were genuinely friendly, approachable and warm. Sometimes, they even brought us sweets.
Over time, I’ve built lasting friendships. My closest friend is Yiannis Papageorgiou, our hotel’s accountant. We clicked, and we’ve been close for 25 years. That sense of camaraderie among colleagues, and the humanity shown by our management, is what kept me here all these years. I feel like part of the family and I consider myself very lucky.
And that spirit extends to the way we treat our guests. We don’t see them as clients; we see them as guests. That, to me, is the essence of hospitality. Of course, much has changed since I began. In many ways, times have gotten tougher. But at Electra, we feel secure. Even during hard times, the company stands by us. They care for us, and we love them back twice as much.
Dimitris Xanthopoulos
Doorman, Electra Palace Thessaloniki
With us since
Irini Bargioti
Senior Waitress, Banquet Department, Electra Palace Thessaloniki With us since 2006
I grew up in Evosmos, in western Thessaloniki. I’ve been with the company for 19 years now; I joined shortly after my husband did. My very first event was a memorial service. The atmosphere was heavy, and I found it quite difficult.
In moments like that, we become one with our guests; we support them, with discretion, and we may often be the only company they have. Through my daily interaction with them, especially with guests from abroad, I feel as if the world travels around me. It’s as if I’ve visited Australia, the US, Israel and so many other places, all without ever leaving.
The hardest part of the job is having to anticipate the unexpected. We need to be constantly alert, always on standby. We must stay flexible, and ready to act quickly.
There are many values that shape the DNA of the Electra Group, but for me the one that stands out is the value that is placed on growth. I’m always amazed when we launch something new, whether it’s a sustainability initiative or a brand-new hotel. I think that’s the secret to the company’s success; there’s no complacency, just a continuous drive for progress.
ONE FAMILY WITHIN THE ELECTRA FAMILY
Yiannis Michelis, his wife Irini and their son Giorgos all work together in the banquet department of Electra Palace Thessaloniki.
Yiannis Michelis
Banquet Maitre d’, Electra Palace Thessaloniki
With us since 2004
I met my wife Irini, a proud Thessaloniki native, back on my home island of Samos, where she was working a seasonal job. We moved to Thessaloniki and got married, and I started part-time at Electra Palace as a second-level waiter. My very first shift was on Christmas Eve; I was so nervous, I was shaking. What I love most is the connection with our guests. The greatest reward is when they ask for me by my first name. The biggest badge of honor? That we’ve never received a single negative comment.
Of course, there are challenges, especially when organizing conferences. In those moments, staying calm and being honest always help.
I’ll never forget the time I met the Ecumenical Patriarch. It was an overwhelming experience. He handed me his scepter so he could sit, and then he blessed me. I felt transformed for days afterward.
Hospitality has evolved so much since I first joined. Back then, our goal was simply to give the guest whatever they wanted. Today, the first thing we do is break the ice, to make it clear we’re here to help them enjoy their time.
As hospitality has evolved, so has the Electra Group. But some things stay the same. To the management, we’re not just numbers, we’re their people. It means the world to feel trusted, respected and valued in your workplace. That’s what helps you give your very best. Thanks to that, I’ve been able to rise from the most junior position to head of the department.
As soon as I turned 18, I started working. My mom was the one who taught me how to carry a tray, how to handle glasses and plates. Over time, I was trained to help set up events. The hardest part was understanding the guest-staff dynamic – what to say, when to speak, how to be present without overstepping.
Working with your parents isn’t always easy. You’re with them at home and then again at the hotel; it’s almost 24/7. But I’ve come to enjoy it. Being close to them gives me a sense of safety.
Out of all the events we’ve organized, one that really stayed with me was the “VorOina” wine celebration at the end of 2024. It was beautiful to see our guests so cheerful and relaxed, enjoying wine in a festive atmosphere.
The job can be tiring, but I see that our efforts are recognized. Going the extra mile doesn’t go unnoticed, and that gives me motivation.
The bellmen of Electra Palace Athens, from left to right: Nikos Agrogiannis, Gerasimos Georgatos and Dimitris Aggelopoulos.
I started young, full of energy and eager to work. At first, I just wanted to make a living. But here I found something much more meaningful; I found respect. I never felt like I was disposable. We were close with the owners, the company was stable, professional and reliable. That sense of consistency and dignity is what kept me here.
I still remember my very first day. I had applied for the job and suddenly got the call. There were no mobile phones back then; I came home from the beach, and the landline rang: “Can you start work tomorrow?” That’s how my journey began.
Over the years, we’ve built strong bonds here. Even today, after a night shift, my colleagues and I will go out for a drink, just like old friends. There’s great value to camaraderie in a demanding environment.
To me, hospitality means greeting someone with a smile. No matter what you carry with you from home, no matter the weight on your shoulders, a smile becomes a mirror; it can soften even the hardest wall. That’s how you earn trust, warmth and connection.
If I were speaking to a young person starting out, I’d tell them to dream. This job gave me the space to dream. It’s important to stay grounded – but not too much. Because a person also needs space to breathe, to look ahead, to look up.
Nikos Agrogiannis
Bellman, Electra Palace Athens With us since 1990
Bell Captain, Electra Palace Athens
I lead the bell team, bringing 35 years of experience to a place that has truly become my second home. Here, I found a healthy work environment and, most importantly, the sense that my work matters. That’s what made me give my best every single day. I’ve been fortunate to work with people who supported me and made me feel part of something bigger.
I carry countless memories – words, glances and embraces. I remember guests telling me that the hotel has a soul, that they feel at home here. To me, that’s the heart of real hospitality: making someone feel genuinely welcome.
Friendships don’t always come easy in a work setting like this, but strong bonds are built over time. My team and I have developed an unspoken language. When we welcome a guest, we read their energy, passing on the right cues to the front desk so that everything flows smoothly. It’s as if we move in sync, sharing the same rhythm.
The values that have kept me here all these years are dedication to quality, not just in service, but in our human relationships, too; teamwork, a sense of support, the feeling that you’re never alone; and, above all, the human approach that says every guest is unique, and that’s how they are treated.
If a young person asked me why someone would stay with the same company for so many years, I’d say this: “When you’re in an environment where you feel respected, where people invest in you, it’s worth it. Because you’re not standing still; you’re building something.”
Gerasimos Georgatos
Bell Captain, Electra Palace Athens With us since
I had just come from Australia, my place of birth, and I had no connection whatsoever to the hospitality industry. I came for a few months, but ended up staying a lifetime.
What drew me in was the stability: a good salary, insurance, a beautiful working environment. But what truly kept me here was the chance to meet people from every corner of the world. That was thrilling. Over time, I began to genuinely love what I do. Many of our guests return again and again. They’re not just customers; they’re part of our daily lives. We offer more than services; we give them our attention.
I remember a day from my early years. I was called to the front desk; some German photographers were visiting, shooting for a travel magazine in Hamburg. I ended up being their model for the day! They dressed me up, did my makeup, and we took photos on the snow-covered Acropolis that February. It was unforgettable.
Now, after so many years, people call me “Mr. Dimitris.”
The younger team members respect me, and come to me with questions, eager to learn. And the truth is, the company always valued me. They appreciated my effort, my trust, my dedication. They knew we did everything we could, and often more.
If the day does come when I leave, I’ll be heartbroken. Because this is where I grew up, worked, gave and received. A life full of experiences and people.
Dimitris Aggelopoulos
Bellman, Electra Palace Athens With us since 1991
to
Focal Restaurant
Metropolis Roof
URBAN WELLNESS, REDEFINED
Electra Palace Athens is ushering in a new era of wellness with the launch of its fully renovated Spa & Fitness Center. This serene urban retreat, inspired by the classical elegance of Plaka, offers a range of personalized treatments, an indoor heated pool, a sauna, a hammam and a state-of-the-art fitness space, all designed to help you restore personal balance in the heart of the city.
PRESIDENTIAL LIVING, ELEVATED
With views of the Acropolis, the new Presidential Suite at Electra Palace Athens is redefining the essence of Athenian grandeur. Hardwood floors, elegant marble detailing, a 50 sq.m. private terrace and a perfect blend of understated luxury and comfort invite guests to experience hospitality at its finest.
GREEK CUISINE AS AN EXPERIENCE
At Electra Hotels & Resorts, Greek cuisine isn’t just about the menu, it’s an ever-evolving way of expressing identity. From the tasty in-room surprises made locally to the Aegean-style tapas at the Wine Vibes Gastrobar in Rhodes or the tempting craft beer selection at Rebels Brew at Electra Rhythm, every food and drink selection reflects care and attention.
In Thessaloniki, Electra Palace’s private produce garden supplies the kitchen with fresh, seasonal ingredients for a true farm-to-table experience. At Focal Restaurant and Metropolis Roof Garden, award-winning chefs continue to redefine Greek gastronomy as an unforgettable culinary journey.
UNFORGETTABLE MOMENTS –FROM THE IONIAN TO SOUNIO
Electra invites travelers to experience Greece through a curated collection of signature experiences: private yacht cruises in Kefalonia, seaside dinners in Rhodes, stargazing nights, olive oil tasting masterclasses, sourdough bread workshops and exclusive guided tours of museums and cultural landmarks. Here, hospitality becomes a living narrative –immersive, authentic and rooted in the spirit of place.
NEW PRIVILEGES FOR ELECTRA REWARDS MEMBERS
Electra Rewards members enjoy exclusive privileges, including discounts of up to 20% at select stores in Golden Hall, Athens’ premier shopping and entertainment destination, and Mediterranean Cosmos, the largest and most beloved shopping center in Northern Greece. It’s just one more way Electra Hotels extends its signature hospitality beyond the hotel experience.
GIFTS THAT TELL A STORY
The newly launched Electra Gift Shop features a handpicked selection of collectible items, lifestyle pieces and exclusive collaborations with Greek designers. Among the highlights is a bespoke line by Ukka Lelle, offering a fresh and elegant take on what a travel keepsake can be.
CONTEMPORARY ART BY THE SEA
Electra Palace Thessaloniki, in collaboration with the School of Drama at the Aristotle University of Thessaloniki (AUTH), presents a bold project that creates a dialogue between art and society in the exhibition “The Unexpected Visitors” with works by students of the Theater Props and Costume Design program appearing throughout the hotel and inviting real guests on a different kind of journey, one of the imagination.
ELECTRA REWARDS
Electra Hotels & Resorts,
Become a member of the Electra Hotels & Resorts Rewards program to gain points with every euro you spend, and enjoy unique privileges and offers.
You have two important business trips planned for next month: one in Athens and the other in Thessaloniki. You like being pampered. Each time you’re away from home, you want to be able to enjoy the very best in hospitality. You want to be offered high-quality services, to benefit from discounts and privileges, and to enjoy every moment of your stay.
If this applies to you even in part, you should sign up as a member of Electra Rewards. You can do this by downloading the Electra Hotels & Resorts app or by signing up online at electrahotels.gr. All loyal customers of the Electra Hotels & Resorts Group are valued, so when they book online or through the app, not only are they rewarded, but they can choose the kind of reward they receive as well.
If you've earned points during a business trip at the Electra Palace or the Electra Rhythm Athens, you can use them to go on a family vacation in Rhodes. If you'd like to relax after a difficult day, why not enjoy a signature therapy with essential oils and Greek herbs at the Electra Metropolis’ Aegeo Spa at a members-only price? Ever dreamt of dining at Thessaloniki’s most romantic restaurant with its amazing views over the Thermaic Gulf? Book a table at the Orizontes Roof Garden of the Electra Palace and earn points for more unrivaled privileges. Whichever service you choose and whichever room you stay in across the Electra Group hotels, you enjoy privileged discounts and earn loyalty points.
Join Electra Rewards and unlock limitless privileges, making every stay with us a gateway to unforgettable experiences.
Apart from the rewards system, members can benefit in a number of other ways: quick check-in, a complimentary welcome drink, and other special privileges at any one of the group’s hotels. To become a member, visit our website and click the button at the top left corner – or simply scan one of the QR codes found in our reception areas. What’s more, you can manage your account, monitor your points tally and book hotel services wherever you are. There are three categories of membership: Classic (for new members), Silver (for members with more than 50,000 points) and Gold (for those with more than 120,000 points). The membership cards are personal and can be used to collect and redeem points during stays at any of the Electra Hotels & Resorts in Athens, Thessaloniki or Rhodes. Points can also be redeemed at any of the establishments in the continuously expanding partnership network.
BENEFITS OF ELECTRA REWARDS
Best price guarantee for direct bookings; discount on all room types and published rates when booked directly through the Electra website or via the Electra reservations department
Finest room available within selected room category
to Electra Palace Thessaloniki Executive Lounge
Receive discounts at our hotel restaurants & bars in Athens, Thessaloniki and Kefalonia.**
Enjoy additional complimentary dinners at the a la carte restaurant of your choice, at Electra Palace Rhodes.
Experience a rejuvenating spa treatment at our hotel’s Spa (minimum duration of treatment: 60 min).
privileged
with our External Partners.
Enjoy special savings at Hertz Car Rental on the island of Rhodes.
Privileged discount from the Greek designer Ukka Lelle, available in Athens and via the e-shop
Collect miles in the Aegean Miles & Bonus Rewards Program.
*Upon availability
**Residents should be listed as the leading name on room reservations and should provide their room number if already checked in. Non-residents should present membership card before bill settlement.
***Members should always present their Electra Rewards membership card to the external partners before the transaction.
Electra Hotels & Resorts
E: loyalty@electrahotels.com
Unexpected Visitors
Partly three-dimensional figures, inspired by memory, imagination and the 1920s, come to life in this project by students Niki Ledaki and Despina Papadimitriou of the School of Drama at Aristotle University of Thessaloniki. The works were created as part of the “Theatrical Props” course, under the guidance of professors Olympia Sideridou and Katerina Papageorgiou. Nostalgic travelers, silent storytellers, whimsical hosts and humorous creatures appear throughout the hotel’s common areas, each presence an invitation to imagine.
FIND HONDOS CENTER STORES IN ATHENS | THESSALONIKI | RHODES
