Athens city guide from a local

Fani Mari

Athens is slowly becoming a great city full of vast offerings in food, drink spots, and unique locations. I’m pleased to see new eco-conscious options popping up around the country and I’ve selected a few of the best restaurants, hotels and spots to visit on your next Athenian trip.

Eat at Soil, Athens

Chef Tasos Mantis has a big love for sustainable cooking and herbalism, thanks to his father. At Soil, he brings a holistic experience, that includes produce from his private garden at Alepochori village (about one hour from Athens). From the garden, to your table, you will find a mix of Greek herbs, fresh vegetables and edible flowers, brought together in delicious creations each season. I recommend visiting in spring or summer, where you can sit outside and enjoy the beautiful patio of the neoclassical building in the heart of downtown Athens. Soil has been awarded one Michelin star and a Green star, for its sustainable approach.

Soil, Ferekidou 5, Athens 116 35, +30 21 0751 3505

Stay at Coco-Mat Hotel Athens BC

Located in the historical neighbourhood of Athens, just a stone’s throw away from the Acropolis, Coco-Mat is the leading company in sustainable hospitality design, from natural fibers in their mattresses to their hotels practices and staff uniform a. It’s all in the little details, from their brand of sustainably designed wooden bikes that guests can borrow to discover Athens to their fitness area, which features little to no plastic, and the exercise machines use no electrical power. They’re also the first hotel in the world to have a ‘Pet Stay Certification’.

Coco-Mat Hotel Athens BC, Falirou 5, Athens 117 42, +30 21 0723 0000

Walk at the National Garden and Filopappou Hill

Although Athens doesn’t have as many parks as London (sadly), one stands out; the National Garden, is a true oasis in the middle of Athens, created in 1838. It’s located just a short walk away from many major sights, in a way, it connects the Acropolis to Syntagma Square (Constitution Square, where the Parliament is). It’s a beautiful, relaxing space, a refuge away from the heat. I recommend combining this with a walk through Zappeion, and if you want to see Athens from above, visit Filopappou or Lycabettus Hill. Filopappou Hill is by the Acropolis.

National Garden, Vasilisis Amalias Avenue 1, Athens 105 57, +30 21 0721 5019

Eat a Cookoomela vegan souvlaki, Exarchia

A somewhat forgotten downtown neighbourhood that has become more popular in the last few years, Exarchia, is home to various food spots, including Cookoomela. Their vegan souvlaki wrap is delicious and their whole menu is based on a sustainable approach to Mediterranean cuisine, using mainly mushrooms from ecological and small-scale suppliers.

Cookoomela deserves a visit for its sustainable ethos. They also offer biodegradable and recyclable packaging and use eco-friendly cleaning products in their restaurant.

Cookoomela Grill, Themistokleous 43, Athens 106 83, +30 21 1182 2343

Visit the Hair Studio at The APIVITA Experience Store

APIVITA is known globally for their nature-powered cosmetics, but did you know they also have a standalone store in Athens? The neoclassical building in Kolonaki is a beautiful and calming space. I recommend checking out Nature’s Hair Studio, which is the first green salon in Athens. They use their own products, including natural hair dyes with no ammonia. This floor also includes a balcony full of plants and trees – an extra green note in the heart of the city. The hair studio also features a vintage barber shop area.

The APIVITA Experience Store, Solonos 6, Athens 106 73, +30 21 0364 0560

From speakeasies to coffee bars, Austin has something that will quench your thirst.

Shop eco-made sandals at EF93

One of the brands that flourished through the pandemic, EF93 started in quarantine, when founders Nefeli and Emma, came together to design an eco-friendly sandal brand. I can confirm they are very comfortable –like walking on clouds– and come in various colours and designs. What stands out apart from the eco-friendly materials they use, is the fact that each sandal from each pair, has a different colour on purpose. This was because they wanted to enhance the importance of acceptance and diversity for all. The main materials are cork for the sole, organic cotton (often offcuts) and the sandals are filled with a blend of coconut fiber and natural rubber. All sandals are handmade in Athens, under the instructions of Mr Lazaros, a talented shoemaker who has been in the industry since the mid-70’s.

Shop online here

Try a free workout class at Stavros Niarchos Cultural Centre, Kallithea

This is one of the most modern, state-of-the-art buildings, a prime example of green architecture in Athens designed by architect Renzo Piano. The Stavros Niarchos Cultural Centre (SNFCC) includes features like solar panels, a large park and water conservation systems. It’s a beautiful space for a stroll and they also have a variety of free events and performances, many of which are suitable for kids. A standout for me is the free workout class, it’s so relaxing and grounding to be able to do an exercise class and breathe in fresh air. I tried mat Pilates but they also have running clubs and more, available on a first-come-first-serve basis.

Find the programme here
Andrea Siggrou Avenue 364, Kallithea 176 74, +30 21 6809 1000

Eat at Patio restaurant, Margi Hotel

Patio restaurant is in the Margi Hotel in Vouliagmeni, one of the nicest areas of Athens, located near the sea. The warm and cosy interior, home to the hotel’s wine cellar, offers degustation menus that are modern—inspired by traditional Mediterranean cuisine. The organic ingredients come from the hotel’s own farm and the Michelin star Chef Panagiotis Giakalis, expertly combines flavours.

For corporate events, you can also book into the Margi Farm for a fantastic tailor-made experience.

Patio restaurant, Litous 11, Vouliagmeni 166 71, +30 21 0892 9160

Shop zero waste at Plastikourgeio

Here, you will find a selection of sustainable, plastic-free products; from reusable coffee cups to kitchen cleaning essentials. They are committed to being a zero-waste shop and are always happy to offer advice on minimising our environmental impact. They also sell their own upcycled creations using recycled materials. Sadly, their store is now permanently closed, but you can shop online.

Shop here

Have a coffee and shop recycled items at Shedia Home

Shedia is the Athens equivalent of The Big Issue, sold by homeless vendors around Athens. Shedia Home is their cafe and shop, which supports the marginalised communities of Athens as well as the environment. Here, you will find items such as art pieces, jewellery, notebooks and more, made from recycled copies of Shedia magazine.

Kolokotroni 56, Athens 105 60, +30 21 3023 1220