I Spent Two Months in Athens ~ 5 Hidden Gems Locals Love

Spending two months in Athens was actually never part of my plan. But there I was unpacking my suitcase in an Airbnb in Omonia ~ an area countless Greeks would soon be telling me was “the most dangerous part”of the city.” 

But I guess what they weren’t aware of, is that I’ve lived in sketchier neighbourhoods, in far more dangerous countries. So the woman high on heroin, dressed like an alien and painted head to toe in silver who I passed on my way to the supermarket most days didn’t faze me one bit. Athens has a way of showing up like that ~ raw, real and completely unfiltered. 

Anyway, the reason why I boarded a plane to Athens on the very day I was supposed to fly to Guatemala is not what this post is about. You’re here for some insider tips on which hidden cafes, restaurants to explore when you go.

So let me fast forward straight to the parts of those eight weeks where I found a handful of places that truly took me front, line and center, into the heart of the Greeks.

If you’re familiar with this blog, or me, already, you’ll know my style by now ~ local places, lesser known gems and authentic spots with soul and stories. If that’s your kind of travel too, I think you’ll love these. Let’s dive in shall we…

1. Diporto ~ the underground hidden gem

The first thing to note is that the only real sign that’ll indicate that you’ve arrived at this restaurant is the graffiti-covered wall outside.

Diporto is one of those places that, without knowing it’s there, you’d easily miss from the street. But step off the pavement, head down those few stairs into the cellar, and you’ll find one of Athens’ most traditional taverna experiences. 

There’s no menu here, so be prepared to embrace the simplicity. No frills or fuss ~ just honest homemade food and house wine some served in tin carafes that have clearly lived a long life.When I wrote the post “Dear Authentic Local Restaurant, Stay Just the Way You Are” this was one of the places that inspired it.

2. Avli ~ the authentic alleyway spot

Next up is Avli. Again, its entrance is not an obvious one and you could pass it a hundred times without noticing.

Look for a small sign, head down an equally small alleyway and you’ll be coming out on the other side to a very down-to-earth unpretentious spot with courtyard seating and prices that make you double-check the bill (think two EUR for a glass of wine kind of reasonable!).

For your time here, it will feel as though you’re not in the middle of grey Athens, but rather that you’ve found a sweet corner on a small Greek island instead. White-and-blue checkered tablecloths, locals eating and laughing around you and the feeling that you’ve been invited to someone’s backyard for lunch.

If you’re lucky, a Greek band might also appear out of nowhere and start playing a few tunes. Keep in mind though, it’s not very big, so in case you don’t get a table, don’t worry ~ there’s another gem just around the corner which I’ll highlight next…

3. Tavern Klimataria ~ the backstreet local fave

Just a few minutes’ walk from Avli is another authentic backstreet spot called Taverna Klimataria ~  a classic family-run spot that’s been open since 1927.

Characterised by its stone walls, old wine barrels (no surprise, given Klimataria means grapevines), and traditional Greek dishes served the way they always have been.

Very little has changed here over the decades and it’s this old-school style that makes it so special.

4. Minu Cafe: perfect for my fellow remote-workers

For my fellow remote workers (or honestly, anyone who just enjoys a beautiful café), I absolutely loved Minu cafe.

Set over two floors with a balcony and outdoor terrace, it’s full of plants, cosy corners, and little nooks you can tuck yourself into for hours. Definitely head there when you want to pull your laptop out for a few hours ~ or if you fancy just going for a coffee or lunch.

I became obsessed with their truffle salad with baked seaweed and chickpeas, so if it’s still on the menu, this gets a huge thumbs up from me).

5. Blue Parrot ~ local approved and cosy

And finally, there’s Blue Parrot. Another very cosy café with inside and outside seating ~  perfect for a day with blue skies (which let’s be honest, in Greece, is almost every day).

My Greek friend I used to work with in Berlin, who’s since moved back to Athens, took me here. I loved it and I trust his taste entirely when it comes to local gems.

Just a few closing reflections…

Athens is more than ruins and rooftop bars. It’s a city layered in contrasts ~ gritty and gentle, chaotic and deeply human ~ and these five places offered little windows into a more local, lived-in version of it.

Whether you’re here for a few days or a few months, I hope these hidden gems bring something special to your trip (or at the very least, save you a few hours of deep research!).

And if you find a gem of your own while you’re there, feel welcome to share it below for others landing on this page. I wish you a beautiful time!

And in case you’d like to watch of video version of these hidden gems, I made this instagram video which will give you a better impression of each!