Newsletter October 2021
Urban Adventures in Autumn
It’s a dilemma shared by few other European capitals in October: city or sea? Many Athenians keep hitting the beaches of the Athens Riviera until November. Meanwhile, outdoor life still goes strong downtown (especially this month, as we ride our buzz from hosting two major global events – the Monocle Quality of Life Conference, and the legendary Acropolis Rally). Autumn’s air of renewal is the perfect interlude to tap into Athens’ spirited urban culture. Explore off-grid neighbourhoods on foot; visit historic landmarks minus the crowds; and take in world-class premieres.
There's no excuse not to eat your greens at the Athens Central Market.
Thomas Gravanis
How to Green Up Your Visit to Athens
Want to boost your sustainable traveller score? From where to enjoy the best vegan souvlaki, to eco-friendly hotels and up-cycled shopping, here's our guide to making your stay in the Greek capital as green as can be. Read More
Thomas Gravanis
Hunt for Treasure at these Great Greek Design Stores
From throwback ancient ceramics and arty postcards too pretty to send; to urban oases where you can brunch on handmade furniture, Athens is on a roll when it comes to cool haunts to pick up stylish souvenirs for your home back home. Read More
The National Observatory from afar.
Thomas Gravanis
Go Stargazing at the National Observatory
Get all Interstellar on an evening tour of this often overlooked city treasure. You’ll study the Athenian night sky through an historic telescope – then enjoy bedazzling views from the Hill of the Muses. Read More
This neighbourhood has a truly Athenian vibe.
Georgios Makkas
3 Cool Athenian Neighbourhoods to Explore in October
• Old school tavernas, all-day bars, punk bistros and a classic outdoor cinema. Editor and publisher Kimon Frangakis spotlights eclectic Petralona;
• Fresh, edgy and arty, Keramikos is reinventing itself as the new gallery and gourmet quarter of Athens. Art influencer Rebecca Camhi paints a picture;
• Up-and-coming Kypseli is being rediscovered by curious creatives for its fine architecture, lovely squares and multicultural vibe, says art critic and curator Kiriakos Spirou.
Thomas Gravanis
What’s On in Athens
Athens Authentic Marathon 2021 / 13-14 November
The original and the best; the legendary Athens Marathon, retracing the epic journey of Phidippides in 490BC, is primed to get off the blocks again this year after sitting out 2020.
Prometheus / 10-30 October
Acclaimed artist Nikos Karathanos presents Aeschylus’ 4th century BC immortal tragedy by using his own words to mythologize daily life.
The House of Memory / Until 8 Jan
Journey “through the keyhole” to the domestic spheres of three key figures of 20th century Greek art, including the great poet laureate George Seferis.
Steve McQueen: End Credits / Until 24 October
A video installation by Oscar-winning director Steve McQueen that uncovers the shameful surveillance of black singer and activist Paul Robeson by the FBI.
Burger Fest 2021 / 1-10 October
Indulge in some serious burger worship at this fun outdoor food festival with live music sets and family vibes that rolls out over two consecutive weekends.