The 10 Best Yoga Studios in Athens, Greece

Inspired by the ancient art and philosophy of yoga, two of the few certified Iyengar yoga teachers in Greece created Shakti – the Sanskrit term for female energy – in the picturesque Mets neighbourhood. The immaculate studio is fully equipped and welcomes international students, providing crystal-clear instruction in a range of languages when required. Renowned lead teacher Haris explains that, “The practice of Iyengar yoga focusses particularly on three aspects: correct body alignment, sequencing and timing.” The rigorous lessons aim to establish a firm foundation of the asana (physical practice) so students can benefit from pranayama (breathing techniques), which foster a feeling of energy and calmness. Their timetable includes classes at a range of levels, as well as a restorative Friday night class for winding down into the weekend.

When in Athens, why not enjoy yoga with a sea view? Yoga and Fitness is a wellness meeting point situated outside the city centre in the coastal suburb of Varkiza. Teacher Nikos Vogiatzis leads dynamic classes within a small seaside studio with floor-to-ceiling windows. A yoga teacher with 15 years of experience, Nikos says “strength, flexibility and balance for the body and mind” are the core principles of each lesson, while taking into consideration each student’s capabilities and modifying the classes accordingly. Taking a yoga class facing the sea offers a uniquely relaxing location in which to release tension; nonetheless, the classes are a test of strength and endurance, particularly in the case of the more advanced dynamic vinyasa classes. Dive into the weekend at the Saturday class, which focusses on handstands and core strength.

Daily hatha yoga classes at this bright and modern studio in the trendy Koukaki neighbourhood are led by teacher Tara, who says their door “is always open to new members, and also visitors and friends who wish to practise with us”. Take your pick from morning hatha, hatha flow and prenatal yoga, surrounded by lush hanging plants and salt lamps. Although the classes are taught in Greek, Tara assures she can give English instructions when needed. Lessons are always followed by tea and cookies, reflecting the studio’s aim to “create a home for everyone to come and find peace and quiet, and connect with companions in their practice”.

Discover a peaceful spot in the centre of the city at the Satyananda Yoga Meditation Centre. Founded by Swami Sivamurti Saraswati, the studio offers classes for all ages, in disciplines ranging from meditation and yoga nidra to ashtanga, prenatal and postnatal yoga. Courses are taught in Greek, with the exception of English-led sessions on Tuesdays. Lessons in other languages can be arranged in advance.

Practise yoga near the ancient Acropolis at the centrally located Swaha Yoga centre. The tranquil studio offers daily classes, with levels from beginner to advanced. The range of styles varies from hatha, vinyasa flow and kundalini to restorative yoga, meditation and Pilates. Conveniently, classes can also be taught in English, so you are less likely to get lost in translation when striking a yoga pose.

NYSY Studios is an ideal destination for yogis looking for a place to practise in the centre of the capital. Located a few minutes’ walk from Syntagma Square, the established venue follows the Greek proverb-inspired aspiration, ‘A healthy mind in a healthy body’, achieved through a range of expertly taught yoga and Pilates classes, workshops and private lessons.

Located in the hip Petralona neighbourhood, the down-to-earth Social Yogis Project provides a cosy community space where the benefits of yoga are accessible to all. Open seven days a week from morning to evening, Social Yogis offers a diverse timetable of drop-in classes and styles that range from hatha and ashtanga to aerial and face yoga. Often discovered by word of mouth, their lessons are known for being the most affordable in Athens. They regularly host experienced teachers from Greece and abroad who share their knowledge through specialist classes and workshops. The social aspect extends to a post-class coffee in one of the cool cafés nearby.

With a name meaning ‘home’ in Greek, Spiti lives up to its promises. Thanks to the interior and atmosphere of this yoga studio, visitors feel as if they are practising in their own living room. The programme includes hatha and aerial classes, silent vinyasa practice, mat-based Pilates and barre à terre (ballet exercises). After your class, the city centre’s best shopping spots, from Monastiraki flea market and picturesque Plaka to the Ermou strip, are within walking distance.

For over a decade, Athens Yoga Centre has been an oasis in the heart of Athens, located a stone’s throw from Panormou Metro station. The bright studio was founded by accomplished yoga educator Maja Zilih, who teaches an array of yoga styles including hatha, anusara, restorative and vinyasa yoga. Additionally, the centre offers meditation courses and ‘yoga in nature’ excursions, where you can practise outside in the rugged natural landscape that surrounds Athens. Lessons cater for all levels, with the intention of giving students a transformative experience that brings balance and inner peace. If you’re on the hunt for some new yoga gear, the centre is one of the only venues in Athens that has its own shop.

Enjoy free yoga classes in the beautiful gardens of the Stavros Niarchos Foundation Cultural Centre. Weekly sessions operate on a first-come, first-served basis. All you need to do is turn up with your mat at the meeting point about 15 to 30 minutes before the start of the lesson. The SNFCC complex includes a stunning building designed by architect Renzo Piano, the National Library of Greece and the Greek National Opera. In the vast Stavros Niarchos Park, your practice will be a sensual experience with scent of aromatic plants such as thyme, lavender, rosemary and roses filling the air.