Le Monde Béryl, Monocle and Konfekt magazine recently joined up for an artful tour of the Greek capital. Here we reveal some of their key stops, secret spots and favourite recommendations. 

Photographs by Mina Azar

1. Wine is Fine 

Following a wander around the historic centre of Plaka, having dinner at Wine is Fine, positioned on the corner of a quiet street, tucked behind the hectic Monastiraki tourist area, is highly recommended. Opened in 2023, everything is super fresh with a small changeable menu flirting between French and Greek dishes. Unsurprisingly given the name, the natural and organic wine is as superb as the place is buzzy. 

2. The Panathenaic Stadium 

Built entirely of marble, The Panathenaic Stadium orKallimarmaro was built for the first modern Olympic Games in 1896, and is a major attraction. Better still, you can enter with the locals from the back and take a perimetric run of the stadium or to use the outdoor gym. The views are sublime, including a particularly excellent angle of the Acropolis.  

3. Foyer 

Set in Pagrati, a residential area just below Kolonaki, where writers and artist dwelled in the 1960s and 70s, Foyer offers a seasonal coffee menu with an emphasis on sustainable practises and long lasting partnerships with coffee farmers. Teas and infusions are brought to you by Good & Proper Tea in London! Our tip: a Freddo Espresso (when in Greece) and a homemade lemon cake. 

4. Museum of Cycladic Art 

Possessing one of the most complete collections of Cycladic Art in the world, this museum which is also in Kolonaki, combines marble figurines of the 3rd millennium BC - which influenced the likes of Constantin Brancusi and Barbara Hepworth - alongside exhibitions celebrating contemporary artists. On show until November 2025, Marlene Dumas: Cycladic Blues. 

5. To Kafeneio

After feasting on art, a short walk to a bonafide classic, To Kafeneio is ideal for an easy Greek lunch. Set up in 1987, is a spot to share the likes of slow cooked beans and chickpeas, dakos (hard bread with tomatoes and feta), fava beans and Horta (boiled greens). 

6. Melas Martinos Gallery 

This beautiful gallery is nestled above Martinos antique shop in a 1930s building that overlooks the Parthenon. Director Andreas Melas is a collector and art advisor who stages temporary exhibitions. Ron Nagle: Ode to a Grecian Formula is on until August 30, 2025. Tip: stop for a lemonade on the terrace and drink in the views of the Acropolis. 

7. Mouki Mou 

Founder Maria Lemos owns two stores in London’s Chiltern Street and her third is in Athens, which opened in Plaka in 2023, selling a mix of clothing and objects, such as jewellery byTed Muehlingand glassware by Alexander Kirkeby. Its cement roof, Lemos had transformed into a planted terrace and is a wonderful spot to drink wine and take in stunning views. 

8. Platanos Taverna 

Greek classics from slow cooked aubergines, stuffed tomatoes and lamb chops are served here with a timeless charm. Nestled in a tranquil square this is suitably relaxed way to end a day of Greek discoveries. 

9. Kavouri Hidden Beach 

Located in the south suburbs aka the Athens Riviera, to access this ‘hidden’ beach you park at the more well-known Kavouri beach and then walk all the way along the beach, ascend a small hill and then down the stairs to a secluded platform. Secretive bliss. If you want to combine this with water skiing - make a stop at Lolos Ski School. 

10. Sofi’s Eatery 

A no reservations spot which opens for breakfast - try the chia seed pudding with fresh fruit - and serves sandwiches and coffees until early evening. It also boasts the adjacent Sofi’s Grocery, open until 9pm. 

11. Temple of Poseidon

Nestled on Cape Sounio, this magical site offers incredible sea views, a reward for hiking up to the temple. The Greeks considered Poseidon to be the ‘master of the sea’ and the energy feels duly sacred. An unmissable slice of atmospheric history. 

12. Akti 

Excellent modern Greek cuisine of line-caught seafood, local produce and sustainable ingredients served on a porch that rests just above the sea. Feast on taramasalata, fresh salad, grilled calamari and sea urchin pasta, naturally topped off with a glass of Rose greek wine.