The Ultimate Guide to Nightlife in Athens: A Fusion of Energy and Elegance
Nightlife in Athens is fascinating, attracting crowds of tourists and locals alike. When the sun goes down, the Greek capital comes to life, thanks to a plethora of vibrant nightlife spots scattered throughout the bustling city center and upscale suburbs. So, no matter what your taste is, you will find a wide variety of options to drink, dance, and socialize.
In this article, we introduce you to the best areas and spots for nightlife in Athens, from elegant speakeasies to hidden cocktail bars. Are you ready to experience the electrifying energy of the Athens nightlife scene?
The chic Kolonaki
Ultra-chic, upscale, and sophisticated, Kolonaki is arguably one of the best neighborhoods for nightlife in Athens. If you are looking for a refined nightlife experience, Kolonaki is the place to go!
This neighborhood is known for its neoclassical buildings, high-end designer boutiques, and being home to some of the best art galleries in Athens. When the night comes, Kolonaki turns into a luxurious nightlife heaven, brimming with cocktail bars and several glitzy spots, where you can showcase your glamorous attire!
One of the best nightlife spots in Kolonaki is the stylish Zurbaran, an all-day bar and restaurant, perfect for a classy night of sophisticated cocktails and tasty bites.
Another hot spot in Kolonaki is Athénée, a historic cafe-bar located where Panepistimiou and Voukourestiou streets meet in the heart of the commercial center. There, you can enjoy a wide variety of drinks and delectable dishes in an environment that oozes a unique vintage charm!
The central Syntagma
The city center is where the heart of Athens’ nightlife beats, as it offers a plethora of options for all tastes, from chic wine bars to sophisticated pubs.
Every evening, as dusk falls, the city center turns into a vibrant nightlife hub, with crowds flocking to the streets to enjoy the variety of options. So, whether you want to go dancing or enjoy a glass of wine in an intimate setting, Athens city center has you covered.
One of the most unique spots in Athens city center is Birdman, a Japanese pub in Syntagma. Encapsulating a deep respect for Japanese culture, this pub serves a wide variety of single-grain whiskeys from Japan, India, Taiwan, India, and America, as well as aperitifs, house cocktails, sake, craft beers, and natural wines. Additionally, Birdman offers a selection of new-style yakitori and comforting dishes, making it a perfect spot for both food and drink enthusiasts.
Another top nightlife spot in Athens city center is Art Lounge. Perched on the 7th floor of the New Hotel, it offers panoramic views of the city, which you can savor while drinking creative cocktails!
The vibrant Monastiraki
Monastiraki is another trendy area for nightlife in Athens. Just a stone’s throw from Syntagma Square, this vibrant neighborhood attracts hordes of people -mainly youngsters- who fill its bars, clubs, cocktail bars, and traditional Greek music venues, which come to life when the sun goes down.
From sophisticated speakeasies to stylish rooftop bars with panoramic views of the city, Monastiraki offers a wide variety of nightlife options that cater to every taste!
Among the labyrinthine streets of Monastiraki, you will find many hidden gems. One of them is Clumsies, rightfully considered one of the best bars in the city, having been voted one of the best bars in the world. There, you will have the chance to try creative cocktails that combine unexpected flavors with prime liquors.
Another hotspot in Monastiraki is Baba Au Rum, a multi-awarded bar, famous for its signature cocktails. True to its name, Baba Au Rum serves a fascinating variety of rum-based cocktails that will satisfy even the most demanding drinkers!
The cosmopolitan Athens Riviera
The idyllic Athens Riviera is lined with upscale seaside bars and clubs that seamlessly blend the cosmopolitan flair of the Southern suburbs with a lively atmosphere, attracting the chicest crowds.
When the sun sets, the Athenian Riviera comes alive with entertainment options that range from elegant cocktail bars and vibrant nightclubs to Michelin-starred restaurants!
One of the top nightlife spots on the Athenian Riviera is the world-famous sushi restaurant Nobu Matsuhisa, which boasts a stunning location by the sea in Vouliagmeni. Besides savoring scrumptious sushi dishes, you can also enjoy a wide selection of cocktails, wines, and sake drinks. All while watching the sun setting and painting the sky and the Saronic Gulf with hues of purple and orange!
If you are in party mode and want to dance to world-class DJ sets, Island Club in Varkiza is the place to be. One of the most iconic clubs in the Athenian Riviera, the Island attracts partygoers from all over the world who come here either by road or sea, as many boats moor at Island Bay.
From sophisticated cocktail bars to vibrant nightclubs, Athens’ nightlife has something for everyone. Whether you want to enjoy a laid-back evening with a sunset view or dance the night away under the stars, the Greek capital will not disappoint you. Are you ready to explore the city’s best nightlife spots and immerse yourself in the captivating energy of Athens nightlife?
