Athens is a city of contrasts: ancient and contemporary, monumental and informal, energetic and deeply local.
Staying in Exarchia places you close to some of the city’s best-known cultural and historic areas while giving you the opportunity to experience a side of Athens that many visitors never see.
The National Archaeological Museum is nearby, while Lycabettus Hill, Kolonaki, Syntagma, Monastiraki, Plaka and the Acropolis can all become part of your exploration of the city.
But Athens is not experienced only through its landmarks.
Exarchia has its own rhythm, shaped by independent bookshops, cafés, galleries, street art, restaurants, bars and the people who live and create here.
Walk through the neighbourhood, stop somewhere that catches your attention and allow time for the city to reveal itself beyond the itinerary.
And whenever you need a recommendation, our team will be happy to share current suggestions based on what you are looking for.
Part of staying in a neighbourhood is discovering the places people return to.
From artisan bread and specialty coffee to Greek flavours and handmade desserts, here are a few of our favourite nearby stops.
The Black Salami Microbakery
A much-loved neighbourhood microbakery known for freshly baked sourdough, inventive sandwiches and excellent pastries.
71 Zoodochou Pigis, Exarchia
See here
Hygge Athens
A warm, Scandinavian-inspired bakery and café serving artisan bread, cinnamon buns, pastries and excellent coffee.
192 Ippokratous, Exarchia / Neapoli
See here
Skakistiko Kafeneio Panellinion
A traditional Athenian chess café where Greek coffee, chess boards and a relaxed atmosphere come together in a place full of local character.
16 Mavromichali, Exarchia
See here
Pavlov Patisserie
If you want to try the best Pavlova in Athens, make sure you pass by the patisserie of Mr Pavlov.
15 Patriarch Gregorios V Street, Nea Erythraia 14671
See here
Araxos Dairy
A great stop for artisanal gelato, Greek yoghurt, fresh dairy products and familiar Greek flavours.
30 Didotou, Exarchia
See here
Portatif Factory
A neighbourhood favourite for beautifully made cakes, pastries, tarts and handmade sweets.
81 Mavromichali, Exarchia
See here
A classic Exarchia choice for souvlaki, gyros, grilled meats and straightforward Greek street food.
50–52 Valtetsiou, Exarchia
See here
A relaxed neighbourhood restaurant serving homemade Greek food with the welcoming feel of a local favourite.
76 Charilaou Trikoupi, Exarchia
See here
A popular Mavili Square address for Italian-style pizza, pasta, brunch, cocktails and outdoor dining.
2 Dorileou, Mavili Square
See here
A stylish cocktail bar in Mavili Square, combining carefully made drinks with an easygoing atmosphere.
4 Dorileou, Mavili Square
See here
An intimate Exarchia bar known for its relaxed atmosphere, creative cocktails and characterful evening setting.
26–28 Asklipiou, Exarchia
See here
An all-day neighbourhood hangout that moves naturally from morning coffee and casual food to evening drinks and music.
59 Ippokratous & Valtetsiou, Exarchia
See here
A café and wine bar with a rustic yet refined character, serving food, desserts, wine, cocktails and coffee throughout the day.
21 Valtetsiou, Exarchia
See here