Alternative Athens

Alternative Athens Experience local life. Travel differently. www.alternativeathens.com You will see Athens as we see it –through the eyes of a local.

ALTERNATIVE_ATHENS is about a different way of travelling and discovering the secrets of this fascinating, complex and diverse city, Athens. Whether taking a tour or staying with us, our aim is to offer you a genuine Athenian experience:

•discovering non-touristic neighborhoods, streets and locations,
•visiting places where the Athenians eat, shop and have fun in their everyday life,
•exploring new, uncharted locations that are just emerging. Everything we do is based on experiences, not just passive sightseeing and tourist stereotypes. We love meeting people, exchanging ideas, and –what travelling’s all about– sharing all we can about our city and our culture.

14/09/2026

On Aegina, pistachios aren’t just a local product — they’re a way of life. You’ll find them in everything: cookies, pastries, liqueurs… and above all, in ice cream.

Tip
But be warned: after tasting pistachio gelato here, you may never settle for anything else again.

👉🏽 Find your own with .Enchanting Aegina Island Day Trip” in bio!
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Museum shops in Athens aren’t just about postcards — they’re a treasure trove of unique, design-forward souvenirs that t...
11/09/2026

Museum shops in Athens aren’t just about postcards — they’re a treasure trove of unique, design-forward souvenirs that tell a story. From handmade ceramics to artful accessories, you’ll often find the most unexpected gifts tucked behind gallery walls.

Tip
Summer essentials, the Fassianos way: The boutique at the Alekos Fassianos Museum is full of vibrant objects inspired by the artist’s colorful world. A perfect spot for gifts with personality.

👉🏽 Find your own with “Greek Designers Shopping Tour” in bio!

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Ancient history, vibrant neighborhoods, incredible food, and sunsets that never disappoint. Have you already added Athen...
08/09/2026

Ancient history, vibrant neighborhoods, incredible food, and sunsets that never disappoint. Have you already added Athens to your travel bucket list?

Tip
This is what an early autumn visit to Athens looks like: golden light, quieter streets, and the perfect balance of energy and calm.

👉🏽 Find your own with “Best of Ancient and Modern Athens Tour” in bio!

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Sailing into September with Hydra on the horizon 🚤Hidden pharmacies, mountaintop chapels, and Leonard Cohen by the sea, ...
04/09/2026

Sailing into September with Hydra on the horizon 🚤

Hidden pharmacies, mountaintop chapels, and Leonard Cohen by the sea, this month’s island picks beyond the harbour:

💊 Rafalias Pharmacy, family-run since 1890
🏘 Kiafa, Hydra’s quiet old town
🖼 DESTE Slaughterhouse Projectspace
🍬 Tsagkaris Confectionery, amygdalota since 1930
🪑 Leonard Cohen Memorial Bench, coastal walk to Kamini

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In a city that’s constantly evolving, some places remain untouched by time. Beneath the modern streets and trendy facade...
01/09/2026

In a city that’s constantly evolving, some places remain untouched by time. Beneath the modern streets and trendy facades, a few tavernas keep the spirit of old Athens alive!

Tip: There’s no sign. No menu. Just a door that leads down to one of the oldest tavernas in Athens. Diporto, operating for over 140 years, serves chickpeas slow-cooked in stock, grilled sardines, and a handful of dishes done just right. Sit elbow-to-elbow with locals, sip rough wine from a tin jug, and discover why some secrets are best kept underground.

👉🏽 Find your own Alternative Athens with “The Delicious Athens Food Tour”  in bio!
🎥 Food Feels

     

28/08/2026

Some of Athens’ most unforgettable meals aren’t in fancy restaurants: they’re tucked down alleys, behind unmarked doors, or inside backyards you might walk past without noticing. That’s where the magic is: real food, made with soul, served in places where time stands still.

Tip: Avli (meaning “courtyard”) is one of those places. Run by Takis since 1985, it’s a tiny backyard taverna that feels like 1960s Athens: checkered tablecloths, old fridges, and music you can sing along to. Order the keftedakia (meatballs), fries, and a cold beer.

👉🏽 Find your own Alternative Athens with “The City Streets and Great Eats Tour

25/08/2026

Right in the center of Athens lies a trio of marble grandeur, the National Library, the University, and the Academy known as the Athenian Trilogy. Built during the 19th century, these buildings still radiate the elegance and intellectual ambition of the modern Greek state. They’re easy to pass by, but deserve a closer look.

Tip: Step inside the Vallianeio Megaron, home to the National Library of Greece, and you’ll find something unexpected: original wooden card catalogues still in use. The marble may echo the Parthenon, but inside, it’s a quiet time capsule of knowledge.

👉🏽 Find your own Alternative Athens with “Acropolis & Agora: The Rise & Fall of Democracy Tour” in bio!
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Most visitors see the Acropolis under the blazing midday sun. But if you time it right, there’s another side, one that f...
20/08/2026

Most visitors see the Acropolis under the blazing midday sun. But if you time it right, there’s another side, one that few ever get to witness. 

Tip: Join our special-access Acropolis tour at sunrise or sunset and experience the site without the noise and rush. With one of the country’s top guides, you’ll explore the Parthenon, Erechtheion, Temple of Athena Nike and more.

👉🏽 Find your own Alternative Athens with “Acropolis Exclusive Access Tour” in bio!

     

18/08/2026

Stretching from the southern suburbs of Athens all the way to Cape Sounion, the is where the city slows down. Here, pine-lined peninsulas, seaside promenades, and laid-back marinas reveal a summer state of mind just minutes from the capital.

Tip: If nature calls, head to Faskomilias Hill, a peaceful spot just above Vouliagmeni. Few know about the walking trails here, making it a real hidden gem. The paths are family-friendly and lead to panoramic views of both the sea and the coastline, perfect for a quiet walk or an impromptu picnic under the pine trees.

👉🏽 Find your own Alternative Athens with “Cape Sounion & the Athens Riviera Sunset Tour” in bio!
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16/08/2026

Right in the heart of Athens, Krinos has been serving loukoumades since 1923, the classic Greek treat once served to Olympic champions. Crispy on the outside, fluffy inside, and topped with honey syrup, cinnamon, and chopped walnuts (or chocolate if that’s more your style).

Tip: Don’t leave without trying their traditional rice pudding with cinnamon or the creamy bougatsa milk pie if you’re up for a sweet comparison with Thessaloniki’s version.

👉🏽 Find your own Alternative Athens with “The Delicious Athens Food Tour” in bio!
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Address

24, Chalkokondili Street
Athens
10432

Opening Hours

Monday 09:00 - 20:00
Tuesday 09:00 - 20:00
Wednesday 09:00 - 20:00
Thursday 09:00 - 20:00
Friday 09:00 - 20:00
Saturday 09:00 - 20:00
Sunday 09:00 - 20:00

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