Photo: Thomas Gravanis

Artisan accessories, exotic spice bazaars, and bohemian cafe-bars, they’re all part of the village vibe of this must-see neighbourhood. Just make sure you go hungry. Architect Sotiris Hainis shows you the ins and outs of Psirri.

Sotiris Hainis, co-founder of Spacelab architects, has lived in Psirri since 2003. His loft—previously a workshop that manufactured military uniforms—has picture windows with stunning Acropolis views and a bird’s eye view of the tightly packed tables and 24-hour crowds on Iroon Square. “This neighbourhood is like a village right in the city centre. Everyone says hello; there are still lots of artisans, antique dealers, old-fashioned shops and restaurants that have been in the same family for generations,” says Hainis. “By day, modern makers and designers are reviving the area as the city’s central craft district. At night, it’s full of interesting faces, a mix of tourists and trendy locals. Psirri is messy and lively, a microcosm of Athens that has everything you could imagine squeezed into a few blocks.”
 

“Psirri is a microcosm of Athens that has everything you could imagine squeezed into a few blocks.”

If it's a hot day, head straight for Kokkion.

Photo: Thomas Gravanis

Kokkion

Zampano

Design lovers will be in heaven in this space.

Photo: Thomas Gravanis

Downstairs at Kotsopoulos.

Photo: Thomas Gravanis

Evripidou Street

Mompso

Mompso is a necessary stop if you're looking for leather boots.

Photo: Thomas Gravanis