FESTIVE MOOD IN ATHENS

In case you will be in Athens during the Christmas period and you were wondering what to do, here’s how to find the holiday spirit in the city.

Yet the Greek capital, may not be covered in snow like other European cities and most probably be really sunny, gets into the festive mood with the Athenians bringing into light ultra-Christmassy decorations and events all around the town.

 

From the traditional ornamental boats decorated with lights and the lovely smell coming out of bakeries, to the holiday greetings “Chronia Polla”, “Kala Christougenna”, “Kali Chronia” by locals everywhere you go will get you sooner than later feeling the Christmas vibe of the city.

 

The cozy cafes and extraordinary bars are Athens’ highlights. Do not miss to sip a hot chocolate or a nice cup of coffee accompanied by a piece of cake at Little Kook in Psyrri. It’s an inside-out Christmas land, fully covered with lights, ornaments, snowflakes and everything! Moreover, at Fairytale in Nea Filadelphia, they welcome the most beautiful time of the year in an extra sweet way, satisfying your sugar cravings while rising up the holiday mood with eye candy decoration. Of course, we have to mention Noel – The holiday bar and as you can tell by its name it’s all about Christmas-inspired interior design, carol songs and signature cocktails. There, it’s always Christmas as they say!

 

 

 

And if you are not yet convinced, just go for ice skating at SNFCC or at Megaron Concert Hall. There are ice rinks set up at many malls and markets. Or you could visit “The Christmas Factory” at Technopolis which brings cheers both to kids and adults. On top of that, the first thematic Christmas Theater of Athens is coming this year in Galatsi, from November 23 to January 6.

Take a long stroll from Syntagma Square to Ermou Street and do your shopping simultaneously. A great option to find souvenirs are the artisan shops in the district of Monastiraki or in the square of Agia Irini. For high-end boutique shopping and for a look at what Greek designers showcase, head to central upmarket Kolonaki district and Voukourestiou Street. Family dining and drinking out of home is part of the Athenian lifestyle, meaning that restaurants and bars are not only open but full of people as well! Hit the all-day venue of City Link which is actually a full block under one roof situated in between Stadiou, Amerikis, Panepistimiou and Voukourestiou Streets. Of course, before all these, a good breakfast for the early birds or good brunch for those who set off the morning alarms is a must to get the day started right at Artemis Bar.  Situated in Sofitel Athens Airport, it features delicious variety of coffees, sandwiches, pastries, cakes, ice creams, drinks and it is open daily from 07:00 to 02:00 and brunching every Sunday from 12:00 to 15:30.

 

Now that you know all the festive tips, let the holidays begin in Athens!