Athens is so much more than ancient ruins, it’s full of hidden gems for sipping, swirling, and relaxing. From dreamy rooftop bars to cool wine spots, here are seven of my favourite places to grab a drink and soak up the city vibes. We visited midweek and not too late in the evenings so things were on the quieter side, I’m sure most of these spots really come alive late at night and at the weekend.
Cinque Wine and Deli Monastiraki
This is the largest of the three Cinque outposts in Athens and it’s a real find. There’s an incredible selection of wine flights, wines by the glass, platters, salads and dips. Alongside the wine tastings, they also offer food tastings – a visit here is the perfect way to spend an afternoon in the city.
It’s mid-afternoon, so we don’t go too wild, but our delightful hosts – mother and son duo Evangelia and Nikitas are on hand to guide us through the menu. We skip the wine flights this time and opt for a couple of wines by the glass instead. We’ve heard great things about Evangelia’s tzatziki and of course, have to try it. I’m happy to report it more than lives up to the hype and that Evangelia was kind enough to share the recipe. We also sample a few delicious olives and a slice of their homemade cheese tart.
The service is absolutely charming, prices are very reasonable, and we spend a lovely, lazy afternoon enjoying Greek food, wine, and hospitality. Definitely add this one to your list when you’re in Athens!
Heteroclito
Another fab spot for a glass of vino, Heteroclito boasts more than 200 Greek labels on its wine list including some organic options. If the sun’s shining, grab a table outside, it’s the perfect place to take a break from sightseeing and enjoy some people watching.
The Foundry Suites Rooftop Garden Bar
We don’t have to go far to find this cute cocktail bar and garden because it’s right on the roof of our hotel. Side note: I really recommend the hotel, but that’s a story for another day.
Open from early May to early October, and welcoming both guests and non-residents, this eco-friendly rooftop garden is a green oasis in the heart of the city. With its lush vegetation, great cocktails, and stunning views of the Acropolis, it’s the perfect place to unwind. Alongside an excellent cocktail list, there’s also beer, wine, and delicious Neapolitan pizzas fresh from the oven. Sadly, we don’t have time to eat here but those pizzas look (and smell) incredible.
Boo! Athens
Located in the heart of Psirri, this stylish, boho-vibed bar will make you feel like you’ve stumbled into an island oasis. The rooftop might not offer sweeping views (unless you count the lively street below), but it more than makes up for it with its décor – all white and earthy tones, just like its laid-back dress code.
We pop in for some pre-dinner drinks, it’s very quiet and there’s definitely no dress code required. I go for the Mystical Mai Tai, which is perfectly balanced and refreshing, while David orders the Secret Storm, a sweet detour for him that he loves. The cocktails are a little pricier than average but you really do get what you pay for – they’re expertly made and seriously good.
They also serve food but we don’t eat this time. The rooftop has a super-chill atmosphere, the staff are warm and welcoming, and the service is spot-on. If you’re after beach-bar vibes in the middle of the city, this is the spot.
Barro Negro
When we’re travelling, David has a passion project: visiting any bars that make the World’s Best Bar List in the city we’re exploring. That’s how we find ourselves at Barro Negro, rocking in at number 62.
Speaking of passion projects, Barro Negro is the creation of two friends and happens to be Athens’ first mezcal and tequila bar. The space has a cosy, intimate feel with a small but charming outdoor seating area. The back-bar selection is particularly impressive – a real treat for anyone who loves quality spirits.
Service is friendly, and the cocktail list is full of interesting choices – every drink features a mezcal or tequila base. The cocktails are so good that we stay for two; I can vouch for the Mezcal and Tonic and the Verano Azul, both perfectly balanced and packed with flavour. Probably one of the best cocktails we’ve ever had – high praise indeed!
Baba au Rum
This rum bar is a must-visit and it’s easy to see why. The cocktails are inventive, the vibe is fun, and Baba au Rum has landed on the World’s Best Bar List at number 27 (its 11th consecutive year on the list, no less). I’m happy to report that the drinks are every bit as impressive as the accolades suggest.
Calling itself a “rum and cocktail society,” the bar is something of an Athenian institution. The back bar is a rum lover’s dream, with over 400 bottles on display. Inside, the space is modern and quirky, and there’s some outdoor seating though the place fills up fast.
Cocktails are reasonably priced and absolutely fabulous- my Mai Tai? Honestly, the best I’ve ever had (and I’ve had a LOT of Mai Tais!). The service is friendly enough, even if it doesn’t quite match the brilliance of the drinks.
The Clumsies
The Clumsies landed at number 47 on the World’s 50 Best Bars in 2023 so we figure it more than deserves a visit. The bar is quirky and multi-roomed, with a relaxed, unassuming atmosphere.
The cocktail menu is long, eclectic, and full of inventive choices – there’s something for every palate, and if you’re not sure what to order, staff will be more than happy to help. This is the place to come if you like your cocktails with a twist! How about that blue Negroni?!
As you can see, Athens is home to some incredible spots that mix creativity, hospitality, and spirit, (pun absolutely intended! ) From creative cocktails to wonderful wines, Athens really knows how to pour a great drink. Whether you’re bar-hopping your way through the city or just looking for one perfect place to unwind, these spots are all worth adding to your list.
Have you been to any of these bars? Or do you have an Athens favourite I should check out next time? Drop your recommendations in the comments and yamas!
As always, all drinks were independently paid for and all opinions are my own.
