Athens is a city that truly comes alive at night. Whether you’re into chic cocktail bars, vibrant nightclubs, or hidden gems, Athens has something for everyone. This guide will take you through the best areas to experience the city’s diverse nightlife, from the upscale Kolonaki district to the energetic Gazi neighborhood. Get ready to explore the best spots to drink, dance, and enjoy the night in Athens.
Key Takeaways
- Kolonaki offers a sophisticated nightlife experience with chic cocktail bars and upscale nightclubs.
- Monastiraki is perfect for those who love rooftop bars with stunning views and trendy cocktail spots.
- Gazi is the place to be for vibrant clubs and unique bars, with plenty of late-night dining options.
- Syntagma Square is the heart of Athens nightlife, featuring chic wine bars, must-visit pubs, and cultural hotspots.
- The Athens Riviera provides a cosmopolitan nightlife experience with upscale seaside bars and iconic nightclubs.
Exploring the Chic Kolonaki District
Kolonaki is one of the most upscale neighborhoods in Athens, perfect for a refined nightlife experience. This area is known for its neoclassical buildings, high-end boutiques, and art galleries. When night falls, Kolonaki transforms into a luxurious nightlife haven, brimming with cocktail bars and glitzy spots where you can showcase your glamorous attire.
Vibrant Nights in Monastiraki
Monastiraki is a lively neighborhood, just a short walk from Syntagma Square. This area is a hotspot for nightlife, attracting both locals and tourists. Explore the fascinating city of Athens at night and discover what Monastiraki has to offer!
The Energetic Gazi Neighborhood
Popular Clubs in Gazi
Gazi is the place to be if you’re looking for a dynamic nightlife experience. This area, once industrial, is now home to some of the most exciting clubs in Athens. One of the must-visit spots is Pixi, a giant dance club that offers a full audio-visual experience with 3D projections and music from both local and international DJs. Another hotspot is Lohan, a club owned by Lindsay Lohan, known for its loud music, house dancers, and confetti cannons. If you’re looking for something a bit more laid-back but still lively, Gazaki is a rooftop bar that offers good music and a relaxed atmosphere.
Unique Bars to Experience
Gazi isn’t just about big clubs; it also has a variety of unique bars. For a more alternative vibe, check out Bios, a trendy spot that combines a live music venue, theater, and rooftop bar with views of the Acropolis. Another interesting place is Flamme Rouge, a quirky bar with a cycling theme and a large garden with hammocks and comfy sofas. If you want to enjoy a drink with a view, head to Roof 45, another rooftop bar that offers stunning views of the Acropolis.
Late-Night Dining Options
When it comes to late-night dining, Gazi has plenty to offer. The area is known for its upmarket street food and ‘neo tavernas’ that reinvent Greek cuisine. One of the popular spots is O2, a rooftop bar that not only offers great drinks but also extraordinary views of the Acropolis. For a more local vibe, head down Sofroniou Street where you’ll find Flamme Rouge, a bar dedicated to a quirky cycling theme with a large garden and comfy sofas. Gazarte is another multi-story cultural space with live music on its rooftop stage, perfect for a late-night bite and some entertainment.
Gazi is famed for its dynamic nightlife, centered around the old gasworks now known as Technopolis. The area boasts an array of bars and nightclubs, from giant clubs to small, intimate bars with live music and good vibes.
Syntagma Square: The Heart of Athens Nightlife
Chic Wine Bars in Syntagma
Syntagma Square is the place to be if you love wine. The area is filled with chic wine bars that offer a cozy atmosphere and a wide selection of wines. One standout spot is Birdman, a Japanese pub that serves single-grain whiskeys and a variety of wines. It’s a unique place where you can enjoy a drink and some delicious yakitori.
Must-Visit Pubs and Lounges
If you’re looking for a more relaxed vibe, Syntagma has plenty of pubs and lounges. Art Lounge, located on the 7th floor of the New Hotel, offers panoramic views of the city. It’s a great place to sip on creative cocktails while taking in the sights. Another popular spot is Barley Cargo, known for its extensive beer list featuring Greek microbreweries.
Cultural Hotspots for Night Owls
Syntagma isn’t just about drinks; it’s also a cultural hub. The area is home to several artistic spaces and live music venues. Booze Cooperativa is a must-visit for its communal tables and live DJ performances. For a more festive atmosphere, check out Noël in Kourtaki Arcade, where it’s Christmas every day with delicious pizzas and sexy cocktails.
Syntagma Square is not just a place to drink; it’s a place to experience the vibrant culture of Athens. From chic wine bars to cultural hotspots, there’s something for everyone.
The Cosmopolitan Athens Riviera
The idyllic Athens Riviera is lined with upscale seaside bars and clubs that seamlessly blend the cosmopolitan flair of the Southern suburbs with a lively atmosphere, attracting the chicest crowds.
When the sun sets, the Athenian Riviera comes alive with entertainment options that range from elegant cocktail bars and vibrant nightclubs to Michelin-starred restaurants!
Upscale Seaside Bars
The Athens Riviera is home to dozens of golden sand beaches, crystal-clear water coves, and organized beach clubs that offer “dolce far niente” at its best. Enjoy a curated selection of the Athenian Riviera’s most impressive hotels, along with a few island gems for those who can’t resist Greece’s archipelagic wonders.
Iconic Nightclubs by the Sea
If you are in party mode and want to dance to world-class DJ sets, Island Club in Varkiza is the place to be. One of the most iconic clubs in the Athenian Riviera, the Island attracts partygoers from all over the world who come here either by road or sea, as many boats moor at Island Bay.
Fine Dining with a Nightlife Twist
One of the top nightlife spots on the Athenian Riviera is the world-famous sushi restaurant Nobu Matsuhisa, which boasts a stunning location by the sea in Vouliagmeni. Besides savoring scrumptious sushi dishes, you can also enjoy a wide selection of cocktails, wines, and sake drinks. All while watching the sun setting and painting the sky and the Saronic Gulf with hues of purple and orange!
Hidden Nightlife Gems in Exarchia
Alternative Bars in Exarchia
Exarchia is known for its bohemian vibe and alternative scene. One of the standout spots is Spirtokouto, a grungy bar that nails the "extremely cool without even trying" aesthetic. The decor changes constantly, and the drinks are very cheap. It’s a great place to start your night with a few beers, costing around 5€ each.
Underground Music Venues
For live music lovers, Exarchia offers some of the best underground venues in Athens. These spots often feature local bands and DJs, creating a unique and intimate atmosphere. The music ranges from rock to electronic, ensuring there’s something for everyone.
Artistic Spaces for Nighttime Fun
Exarchia is also home to several artistic spaces that come alive at night. These venues often host art exhibitions, poetry readings, and indie film screenings. They provide a perfect blend of culture and nightlife, making your night out in Exarchia truly special.
Pro Tip: If you’re looking for a hidden gem, check out the cozy little cocktail bars next to the church. They are perfect for the first drinks of the night or for a more private experience.
Discover the hidden nightlife gems in Exarchia, a neighborhood that comes alive after dark. From cozy bars to vibrant clubs, there’s something for everyone. Want to know more? Visit our website for the full guide and start planning your night out!
Conclusion
Athens is a city that truly comes alive at night, offering a diverse range of nightlife experiences that cater to every taste. From the chic bars of Kolonaki to the vibrant clubs of Gazi, and the laid-back rooftop spots in Monastiraki, there’s something for everyone. Whether you’re in the mood for a sophisticated evening with cocktails and stunning views or a night of dancing until dawn, Athens has it all. So, get ready to explore the best nightlife spots in this dynamic city and create unforgettable memories. And remember, for more travel inspiration and tips, visit TripDealer to start planning your next adventure.
