Photo: Thomas Gravanis

Hit up these hidden gems, tucked away inside some of Athens’ 'forgotten' arcades, to tap a nostalgic window into a bygone age.

By Natassa Pappa

Photo: Thomas Gravanis

Old School Café

Stoa Naftemporiki

Hats for all Seasons

Stoa Orfanidou

Photo: Thomas Gravanis

Photo: Thomas Gravanis

Handmade Toys and Parenting Tips

Stoa Tristrato

All-Time Classic Bar

Stoa Michael and Lemou

Hiding in the same arcade is one of Athens’ oldest and coolest drinking dens. Galaxy Bar (not to be confused with the Hilton hotel’s rooftop bar of the same name) opened in 1972, but moved here in 1991. It attracts a creative and intellectual crowd, alongside the city’s old guard—all presided over by the famous Mr. Yannis, an old-school proprietor who greets patrons personally and ensures that no-one ever leaves unsatisfied.  

The lights stay bright all night and the music plays quietly in the background allowing conversations to thrive (unusual for a Greek bar). A local favourite for after-work drinks, you wonder how all of the regulars somehow always fit in this magical narrow space. Galaxy Bar feels like a time capsule, with photographs from its golden era covering the walls, reminders of the famous figures who propped up the shiny bar. 

Digging for Vinyl

Stoa Theofilatou

Photo: Thomas Gravanis

Photo: Thomas Gravanis

Retro Barber Shop

Stoa Theofilatou

Neon and Lunch

Stoa Emboron

Photo: Thomas Gravanis

Photo: Thomas Gravanis

Stamps, Coins and Postcards

Stoa Michael and Lemou

Photo: Thomas Gravanis