The Top 10 Things To Do In Kolonaki, Athens
A chic and charming neighborhood climbing up the side of Lycabettus Hill, Kolonaki is one of the oldest – and trendiest – neighborhoods of Athens. Fashionistas, artists and socialites from all over the city come here to enjoy many high-end boutiques, art galleries, entertaining nightlife for all tastes and unique restaurants. Yet this trendy neighborhood also boasts a cultural side to it… Take a walk and discover the best things to do in Kolonaki.
1. The Benaki Museum
Museum
2. The Museum of Cycladic Art
Museum, Shop
The Museum of Cycladic Art
Another stunning museum located in Kolonaki, the Museum of Cycladic Art is another must-see in Athens. Focusing on ancient Aegean and Cypriot cultures, the museum has more than 3,000 artefacts of Cycladic, Ancient Greek and Cypriot art. You should know that the museum is currently hosting an exhibition by China’s enfant terrible Ai Weiwei until the end of October. Make sure to visit the museum’s shop at the end of your visit to score a unique souvenir, after a quick refreshing lunch at the minimalist and bright café.
Museum of Cycladic Art, Neofitou Douka 4, Athens, Greece, +30 210 722 8321
3. The Byzantine and Christian Museum
Museum
4. Apivita Experience Store
Store
5. Cake
Cake
Will all the sweet tooths out there please stand up! And head to Cake, a pleasant place where indulging is the motto. As the name implies it, Cake serves mouth-watering cakes and sweets, and they mean business. Fall for the scrumptious Red Velvet Cake or go for the old-time classic New York Cheesecake. Why yes, it’s someone’s birthday somewhere, right? For those who prefer savory treats, opt for a tasty savory pie or quiche. Either way, Cake has you covered for that energy kick after a day of exploring.
Cake, Irodotou 15, Athens, Greece, +30 210 721 2253
6. Carpo
Carpo
If cakes are not your thing and you prefer something somewhat lighter, head to Carpo instead. This little shop sells dried fruits, nuts, chocolates and honey in bulk, all sourced from local Greek producers. The charming place is also perfect for a quick coffee on the go and, if you like what you try, you can buy some some coffee grains to take home with you.
Carpo, Kanari 6, Athens, Greece, +30 210 360 5617
7. Impasto Pizza by the Slice
Bar
Impasto Pizza by the Slice
In the world of street food joints, Impasto is a force to be reckoned with. Combining top-notch thin-crust pizzas with freshly made tramezzini, salads and panini, and a well-stocked wine list, Impasto is the old-timey pizza bar Athens needed.
Impasto Pizza by the Slice, Kanari 10, Athens, Greece, +30 210 360 3648
8. The Gennadius Library
Library, School
The Gennadius Library
If you are passionate about books, this is the place to be. The Gennadius Library of the American School of Classical Studies, one of the most important in the country, counts over 110,000 volumes on Greek art, literature and history from ancient times until now, including German archeologist Heinrich Schliemann’s diaries, and the first printed edition of Homer’s epics, The Iliad and The Odyssey (in Greek). The library – though it doesn’t have a lending service – organizes various seminars, conferences and lectures. For example, from September 28 to October 1, the Library and the Schwarz Foundation are organizing the second edition of its festival Nights of Classical Music at the Library. An opportunity not to be missed…
Gennadius Library, Souidias 54, Athens, Greece, + 30 213 000 2400
http://instagram.com/p/BCDV9kSpiTN/?tagged=gennadiuslibrary&hl=en
Zoumboulakis Gallery
The Zoumboulakis Gallery is a veteran among art galleries in town. With two other locations in Petralona (multi-event space) and Syntagma (antique and art gallery), the Zoumboulakis gallery in Kolonaki – known as 20 Kolonaki Sq. – is a great place to discover and admire Greek and foreign artists. Of course, you should not skip on the museum shop, as there you will find stunning art pieces and designer furniture.
Zoumboulakis Gallery, Alopekis 20, Kolonaki square, Athens, Greece, +30 210 360 8278
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