Every traveller knows about Athens’s famous archaeological sights, ancient ruins, and world-class museums. The historic city is full, however, of hidden gems that you might walk straight past if you didn’t know about them. In this blog, we cover five unique experiences in Athens that you can visit in the winter months. Journey to one or more of these spots, and you’ll leave with an entirely new view of the Greek capital.
Play Chess at Panellinion
Chess remains popular in Greece and has an active following around the country. It is, of course, rivaled by games of cards and backgammon at local coffee shops. At Panellinion, every table is set up with a chessboard. With a simple interior with a marble mosaic floor and flaking paint, it’s not the type of place to take a date. But it’s full of charm.
The unique part about this coffee shop is that it stays open until the final game of chess is finished. This cafe is a symbol of what the Greeks are so good at: slowing down in life. If you have the chance when visiting Athens, stop by to enjoy the flavours of the most popular order – the “elliniko” coffee, or to play a game of chess of your own.
Visit Agioi Isidoroi on Lycabettus Hill
On the western side of Lycabettus Hill, you will find the humble church of Saint Isidore. The church is unique because it is built into the rock, and it conceals a number of tunnels that lead out of the city. A sign inside the church mentions an underground passage linking Lycabettus Hill to Galatsi, which was an escape to Penteli mountains that was used by revolutionaries in the War of Independence. The church of Saint Isidore is also known for its beautiful iconography, peaceful services, and miracles that took place there.
Create Art at 13Mosaic Studio
Found on Ermou Street, this gem in Athens is perfect for art lovers. At this air-conditioned studio near Syntagma, you can sign up for a three or five-hour mosaic workshop and create your own masterpiece. You can create a mosaic that mimics historical Athens sites using colorful Greek marble cut by hand and prepared in the traditional ancient Greek way. This mosaic workshop leaves you with a great souvenir and is a cozy escape during the cooler winter days. 13Mosaic Studio is also popular for kids of all ages.
Visit a Historic “Milk Bar”
What is a “Milk Bar?” About fifty years ago, bars serving dairy products (yogurt, rice pudding, and custards), outnumbered bars which served alcohol in Athens. Customers of all ages and economic backgrounds would come in for a snack, usually accompanied with a Greek coffee. Athens milk bars are also a place to try traditional Greek yogurt, which is rich in taste, thick, and creamy. It is often served with honey and walnuts, although the yogurt is naturally sweet on its own as well.
If you walk by a milk bar in Athens, be sure to stop in!
Take a Steam Bath at Al Hammam
Al Hammam is a traditional bathhouse from the days of the Ottoman occupation that fits up to 8 people. You can find it in Plaka in central Athens. It is an excellent place to go with friends, to lie on the marble, and to relax in the steamy baths. Massages and haircare services are available, with specials for couples. The experience is reminiscent of Greece’s past under the rule of the Ottomans, when mosques and public baths were scattered around the city. Tea is served at the end of your stay and you will leave feeling relaxed and refreshed.
