Athens is the ultimate city for vinyl lovers. Visitors will find record stores across the centre of the city. Whether you’re looking for for specialist spots or wider records selections, read Culture Trip’s guide to the best record shops in Athens.
Located in the heart of the trendy Exarchia neighbourhood, the brightly coloured Rhythm Records store is an Athenian institution. The shop stocks a wide variety of records that range from Hardcore Punk to Indie, Ska and Garage, as well as offering music from Greek artists. Inside visitors can browse new and used vinyl which have been expertly selected and curated since the store opened in 1999.
Located in central Athens near Panespistimio station, Discobole is one Athens’ most established record stores. The store opened in 1983 and sells a large variety of records. Inside the vibe is friendly and welcoming which makes it easy to while away hours checking out the selection and listening to great music as you go.
Exarchia is home to copious record stores, and one of the area’s best is Vinyl City. The store sits on the cusp of Exarchia and Neopoli, making it a great place to start if you’re planning on visiting multiple stores in the area. Inside you’ll find a broad selection of music that ranges from Jazz to Rock, Soul to 70s disco. They’re all reasonably priced, too.
Sound-Effect Records is an independent record label with a store in the heart of Athens. With over 1,500 records, the shop is a dream destination for all kinds of vinyl lovers. Alongside their own label which has put out cult bands such as Acid Baby Jesus and Cosmic Letdown, Sound-Effect Records offers a wide range of contemporary bands.
Le Disque Noir is a record store that specialises in Electronic, Minimal, Gothic and Synth Pop music. Located close to Omonoia Square, the store sells used and second hand records to cater to these specific interests. This is a great spot to spend time browsing in, and the staff are friendly and knowledgeable.
Situated in the vibrant Psyrri neighbourhood, Habeats Records is a boutique record shop in Athens that specialises in new electronic music. The store offers expert curation of local labels and artists alongside an expert pick of international names. There is also a great edit of second hand vinyl. The slick offer is amplified by the minimalist interiors and friendly atmosphere. The space regularly hosts live events too.
Bowel of Noise is a must-visit destination for Goth and Metal music lovers. The store stocks a wide variety of vinyl as well as merchandise including t-shirts, accessories, books and zines. The selection of new vinyl is comprehensive and well curated, with both international and local artists on offer.
Mr. Vinylios is a much-loved record store in Athens that is situated at the very heart of the city. Its Monastriki location makes the store more of a tourist destination than other vinyl stores in Athens, but that doesn’t stop it from being worth visiting. Inside you’ll find a huge selection of new and second hand vinyl. The store is particularly well known for its selection of rare records where you can search for unique vinyl from a range of genres. Whatever you’re looking for, it’s unlikely that you’ll leave empty handed.
Since opening its doors in 2000, Rock and Roll Circus vinyl store has amassed a great collection of music. The store stocks everything from Jazz and Soul music to Disco, Funk and, of course, Rock and Roll. Offering both new and used vinyl, the selection is guaranteed to keep you coming back. If you can’t find what you’re looking for then the attentive and friendly employees are also more than happy to keep an eye out on their future record hunts. The store also has great record sales throughout the year.
Underflow Records & Art Gallery is a cool venue and vinyl store in the Koukaki neighbourhood. A relatively new addition to the vinyl stores in Athens, Underflow Records has already secured a reputation as an essential destination for record lovers. The minimalist, industrial interior ensures a chic browsing experience, inviting visitors to take their time while exploring the wide variety of music. Genres include Classic Rock, Jazz, Blues as well as more experimental genres. The gallery aspect of the store makes for a multi-faceted and enjoyable experience.
Kasseta Records Shop is an independent record store that specialises in dance and alternative vinyl. On offer is a slick and knowledgable edit of the best of the international scene as well as a few local picks. The store also hosts in-store sessions where local artists come to play.