Photo: Thomas Gravanis

A deep dive into several lesser known neighbourhoods to experience “real Athens”—its people, street life, and the secrets that lie just below the surface.

By Amanda Dardanis

Kolonaki: Pagans, Poets and Social Climbers

Photo: Thomas Gravanis

Photo: Thomas Gravanis

Exarchia: Rebels and Street Artists

Photo: Thomas Gravanis

Photo: Thomas Gravanis

Panepistimio: Muses, Scholars, and Stoas

Photo: Thomas Gravanis

Photo: Thomas Gravanis

Psirri: Cool-hunters and Creatives

Photo: Thomas Gravanis

Photo: Thomas Gravanis

Monastiraki: Bargain-hunters and History-lovers

What’s the verdict?