Newsletter December 2023
Thomas Gravanis
Witness the Athens Christmas Miracle
Christmas miracles happen where you least expect them. Having flown under the radar of most winter escapists for far too long, it was high time for Athens to emerge as the fascinating December destination that it is. To prove this point, we've rounded up 31 insider tips on how to get the most out of Christmassy Athens. All you have to do is tune into our Instagram and Facebook stories every day and get all the nice (and naughty) info. But, that's not all.
This December, we invite you to celebrate our thriving gastronomy in the company of some of the finest chefs in town and help you plan your stay in Athens down to the last merry detail; from your Christmas shopping list to your New Year's celebrations and all the festive fun in between.
Thomas Gravanis
In Good Company: Where the Chefs Eat in Athens
A popular Greek saying goes like this: "Any place is good if you're in fine company". So for Christmas we thought we'd take you out to eat in the best of company; some of the hottest chefs in Athens.
"Chef's kiss"
Thomas Gravanis
Stuff the Stockings: Your Guide to Christmas Shopping in Athens
In Athens, we don't do stress when it comes to Christmas shopping. We do smiles. From local delicacies for a wonderful festive feast, to handmade gifts, souvenirs and decorations, here's where and how to tick off your shopping list while in town for the holidays.
Stock up on smiles
Thomas Gravanis
7 Ways to Celebrate NYE in Athens
Whether you're visiting Athens to ring in the New Year or have made our cosy capital your temporary (or forever) home, here's how to partake in our customs and traditions and plan your New Year's Eve celebrations like a true Athenian.
Kali Chronia! (Happy New Year!)
Thomas Gravanis
3 Great Things to Do in Athens in December
- Double down on your festive outing in Athens by booking early for a Michelin-starred dining experience, followed by a deep dive into the city's best cocktail bars;
- Trade the city's lively festivities for the alpine serenity of Mount Parnitha, just an hour away, and spend a few nights at the Bafi and Flampouri refuges;
- Make your visit to the Acropolis an unforgettable one (congrats on choosing the best time of the year to do so, by the way!) by setting up a premium tour of the Sacred Hill and the surrounding neighbourhoods.
Thomas Gravanis
What’s On in Athens
The Night of Wishes | 24 December
Join Athenians in this night of collective hopefulness and whisper your inner desires to the night sky. Make sure to stay for the party that follows!
Read more
Free Concerts in the City | Until 30 December
Walking around Athens this December and wondering where that music you hear is coming from? Well, you're probably near a free Christmas concert. From carols from around the world, to jazz concerts, swing sessions and traditional Greek music, find the festive soundtrack of your choice and rejoice.
Read more
Christmas Street Parties | 17-31 December
Dance your way into the New Year in Athens. Track down the city's biggest urban blowouts and don't miss the Big One on NYE at the Varvakios Market.
Read more
The Christmas Factory Turns Ten | Until 6 January
Over 40 days of non-stop Yuletide fun await in this very special occasion at Technopolis. Did we mention that it also coincides with Santa's birthday?
Read more
Christmas World at the SNFCC | Until 7 January
The Ice Rink, mesmerising light installations, free concerts and a pop-up bar with 360° views of Athens are just some of the reasons to head for the SNFCC this holiday season.
Read more