10 Must-Visit Contemporary Art Galleries in Athens
The art scene in Athens is vibrant and dynamic. Soaking up the rich plethora of modern culture on offer in the city is just as important as enjoying the Ancient ruins. Whether you’re only in town for a weekend or have the luxury of taking your time, these are the must-visit contemporary galleries to see in Athens.
1. Ileana Tounta Contemporary Art Centre
Art Gallery
An industrial space that houses a dynamic programme of contemporary art in Athens, Ileana Tounta Contemporary Art Centre is an essential visit for modern art lovers. Founded in 1988, the gallery was the first multi-purpose creative space in Athens, setting a new agenda for the contemporary art scene in the city. The dynamic programming has welcomed over 250 exhibitions since it opened, with a curatorial stance that champions Greek artists and represents them internationally. Alongside the multi-purpose gallery space is the urban garden. The open plan restaurant is a great spot to spend an evening with a menu that offers locally sourced, seasonal plates.
2. Breeder Gallery
Art Gallery
Founded in 2008, The Breeder is considered to be one of the most influential commercial galleries in Greece. Located in the trendy Metaxourgeio neighbourhood, it is a destination that is undoubtedly worth the journey. The space exhibits local and international artists, working as a channel between the Greek art scene and the wider world. The contemporary programming offers a wide range of media from video installations to sculpture, abstract painting and murals. Openings at The Breeder welcome a wide range of creatives and are always vibrant.
3. Radio Athènes
Art Gallery
Founded in 2014 by Helena Papadopoulos and Andreas Melas, Radio Athènes is a non-profit contemporary art gallery in the centre of the city. While promoting a dynamic programme of modern art the gallery also functions as a bookstore and hosts events. Exhibitions are widely varied in their mediums and themes, ranging from meditations on political trials (Vangelis Vlahos: Objects to relate to a trial (Nov17)) to stories of failed relationships (Eleni Bagaki: ‘A book, a film, and a soundtrack’). Performances, readings, screenings and broadcasts all combine to make Radio Athènes a must-visit contemporary art space on your visit.
5. The National Museum of Contemporary Art, Athens
Art Gallery, Building, Museum
6. State of Concept, Athens
Art Gallery
Founded by the renowned art critic and curator iLiana Fokianaki in 2013, State of Concept is an innovative and exploratory space at the heart of Athens. The gallery facilitates conversations about the social and political landscape not only in Greece, but about the state of Europe more widely. It offers a platform for Greek artists to challenge existing narratives and scrutinise the modern apparatus. Exhibitions range from Virtual Reality installations and video screenings to more traditional mediums. The work exhibited is well chosen and consistently engaging. A must-visit in Athens.
A post shared by State Of Concept (@stateofconcept) on Mar 10, 2018 at 4:20am PST
7. Bernier/Eliades Gallery
Art Gallery
8. Eleni Koroneou Gallery
Art Gallery, Building
9. Gagosian Gallery
Art Gallery
10. DESTE Foundation for Contemporary Art
Art Gallery
Established in Geneva in 1983 by Dakis Joannou, DESTE Foundation for Contemporary Art is a not-for-profit space now based in the Athenian suburbs. The influential art collector’s initiative moved between venues until 1996 where it settled in Neo Psychico, re-designed by American architect Christian Huber. The space has exhibited hugely influential artists and also champions emerging Greek creative talent. Now working with the Museum of Cycladic Art and the Benaki Museum in Athens, DETSE continues to stage a dynamic international programme.
Since you are here, we would like to share our vision for the future of travel - and the direction Culture Trip is moving in.
Culture Trip launched in 2011 with a simple yet passionate mission: to inspire people to go beyond their boundaries and experience what makes a place, its people and its culture special and meaningful — and this is still in our DNA today. We are proud that, for more than a decade, millions like you have trusted our award-winning recommendations by people who deeply understand what makes certain places and communities so special.
Increasingly we believe the world needs more meaningful, real-life connections between curious travellers keen to explore the world in a more responsible way. That is why we have intensively curated a collection of premium small-group trips as an invitation to meet and connect with new, like-minded people for once-in-a-lifetime experiences in three categories: Culture Trips, Rail Trips and Private Trips. Our Trips are suitable for both solo travelers, couples and friends who want to explore the world together.
Culture Trips are deeply immersive 5 to 16 days itineraries, that combine authentic local experiences, exciting activities and 4-5* accommodation to look forward to at the end of each day. Our Rail Trips are our most planet-friendly itineraries that invite you to take the scenic route, relax whilst getting under the skin of a destination. Our Private Trips are fully tailored itineraries, curated by our Travel Experts specifically for you, your friends or your family.
We know that many of you worry about the environmental impact of travel and are looking for ways of expanding horizons in ways that do minimal harm - and may even bring benefits. We are committed to go as far as possible in curating our trips with care for the planet. That is why all of our trips are flightless in destination, fully carbon offset - and we have ambitious plans to be net zero in the very near future.