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Hello there, fellow traveller!
Athens has transformed into one of Europe’s most exciting destinations for nightlife over the past decade. What makes this particularly remarkable is how the city has developed its own distinct cocktail culture – one that blends world-class mixology with authentically Greek hospitality, where going out for after work drinks inevitably turns into exploring completely different atmospheres within a few blocks.
This article guides you through Athens’ best bars across several categories: exceptional cocktail bars, rooftop venues with amazing views of the Acropolis, and unique spaces beloved by locals. I’ll help you understand when and where to go, because Athens operates on a different nightlife clock than most European cities – the real action rarely starts before midnight.
One important note before we begin: Athens’ bar scene is remarkably dynamic and constantly evolving. New venues open regularly, and occasionally beloved spots close or relocate. I’ve focused on establishments with proven staying power and excellent reputations, but I’d always recommend checking current opening hours and status before making a special journey, particularly for smaller venues.
Now, let’s discover where Athens comes alive after dark.
Athens nightlife operates later than most European destinations. While bars open early evening, the city truly comes alive well after midnight, particularly Thursday through Saturday. Many venues serve coffee and food during the day before transforming into sophisticated bars as evening approaches, then shifting into late night drink mode.
Rooftop culture dominates the bar scene for obvious reasons – ancient landmarks create stunning backdrops, and the Mediterranean climate makes outdoor drinking possible most of the year. Price expectations vary: signature cocktails at top establishments typically range €12-16, whilst neighbourhood bars offer drinks from €7-10. Athens remains remarkably affordable compared to London or other European capitals.
The metro runs until midnight (later Friday and Saturday), after which taxis become necessary. Central areas remain safe and busy throughout the night.
Praxitelous 30, Syntagma | +30 21 0323 2682
Open: Daily 12pm-2am
The Clumsies represents Athens’ arrival on the global stage, consistently ranked among the World’s 50 Best Bars (reaching #6 in 2023). This three-storey neoclassical building delivers innovative creations alongside impeccably executed classic cocktails. The menu changes seasonally but always features Greek ingredients: mastic, Metaxa brandy, local herbs.
The atmosphere balances world-class sophistication with genuine welcome. Arrive before 9pm for seating without booking. Signature cocktails cost €14-16, reflecting premium quality and expertise.
Did you know? Founders Vasilis Kyritsis and Nikos Bakoulis created The Clumsies to feel like a living room where creativity flourished – purposefully imperfect in the most wonderful way.
Klitiou 6, Syntagma | +30 21 0322 9374
Open: Daily 6pm-3am
Baba au Rum is known for its extensive rum selection. But the experience extends far beyond its 100+ rum varieties. Founder Thanos Prunarus has built something special: a bar where serious spirit knowledge meets warm hospitality. The space is intimate and beautifully designed, with carefully curated details throughout.
The daiquiris and Mai Tais are exceptional – Prunarus considers these the ultimate test of bartender skill. Beyond rum-focused drinks, the broader cocktail list demonstrates equal sophistication. An unexpected pleasure: pairing creative cocktails with carefully selected chocolates.
Cocktails run €12-15. Prunarus founded both the Athens Rum Festival and Fine Drinking Magazine, establishing himself as central to Greece’s cocktail culture.
Kolokotroni 3, Syntagma | +30 21 1411 7032
Open: Tuesday-Saturday 7pm-3am
Tucked along Kolokotroni Street’s cocktail corridor, 42 Bar offers intimate atmosphere where conversations with bartenders flow naturally. The space is deliberately small, creating an environment where you can watch delicious cocktails being crafted with meticulous attention.
The bar focuses on premium spirits and innovative techniques whilst avoiding pretension. Bartenders are knowledgeable without being condescending. The menu balances creativity with accessibility. Cocktails cost €12-14.
Stadiou 10, Athens | +30 21 0322 7733
Open: Daily 8am-2am
Established in 1972, aGalaxy Bar represents Athens’ cocktail history – the city’s oldest continuously operating bar, where wood-panelled walls and black and white photos transport you to mid-century elegance. This isn’t nostalgia alone; bartenders execute classic cocktails with precision modern bars would envy.
Order a Dry Martini or Old Fashioned and receive exactly what these drinks should be: perfectly balanced, properly chilled. The clientele skews local, creating authentic atmosphere. Prices are remarkably reasonable (cocktails €10-12), making Galaxy excellent value in downtown Athens.
Fokionos Negri 45, Kypseli | +30 21 0822 5269
Open: Tuesday-Sunday 7pm-2am
Venturing to Kypseli reveals Heteroclito, a neighbourhood cocktail bar gaining recognition beyond its local area. The approach emphasises creativity and welcoming atmosphere equally. Cocktails incorporate interesting ingredients without becoming overly conceptual.
The crowd is predominantly Athenian, creating authentic local atmosphere. Prices are notably lower than central equivalents (€9-12). Fokionos Negri is a pleasant pedestrian street worth exploring.
Koukaki | +30 21 0921 4010
Open: Daily 5pm-1am
Drupes brings proper Italian aperitivo culture to Athens. This isn’t merely a bar serving Aperol Spritz to tourists but serious exploration of Veneto tradition. The wine list focuses rigorously on regional producers, offering genuine expertise.
Beyond the classic Aperol Spritz, variations demonstrate creative interpretation. The atmosphere is genuinely cosy, with intimacy that encourages lingering over drinks and small plates. Koukaki’s residential character attracts locals alongside tourists. Spritzes cost €7-9.
Miaouli 2-4, Monastiraki Square | +30 21 0324 3021
Open: Daily 10am-1am
When visitors imagine drinking cocktails whilst gazing at the illuminated Acropolis, they’re picturing A for Athens. This rooftop terrace delivers stunning, unobstructed views of Monastiraki Square and the Acropolis, and the bar offers professionally mixed delights. Founder Thodoris Pirillos created the Odyssey cocktail menu inspired by Greek mythology, executed with proper craft techniques.
Arrive 45 minutes before sunset to secure good seating. The golden hour is genuinely magical. Location directly on Monastiraki Square means exceptional accessibility (Monastiraki metro below). Cocktails €12-16. Reservations strongly recommended for weekends.
Mitropoleos Street | +30 21 0322 9170
Open: Daily 12pm-1am
Metropolis Roof Garden offers elevated sophistication with floor-to-ceiling glass providing unobstructed Acropolis views. The atmosphere skews toward chilled relaxation rather than party energy. The Mediterranean food deserves attention – many arrive for sunset cocktails and stay for dinner.
Service maintains professional standards. This is a special-occasion venue. Cocktails €14-18.
Normanou 3, Monastiraki | +30 21 0321 4007
Open: Daily 10am-1am
Steps from A for Athens but decidedly different, Couleur Locale offers equally impressive views from a more intimate rooftop terrace. Vintage furniture and eclectic decoration create bohemian atmosphere. The crowd includes more locals, and the atmosphere encourages conversation.
Cocktails and food are well-executed without being overly ambitious. Prices sit mid-range (€10-14). Smaller capacity creates intimacy – you’re sharing a special viewpoint.
Athens Capital Center Hotel, Ermou | +30 21 0414 0000
Open: Daily 10am-2am
Point a Bar’s 360-degree views from this rooftop distinguish it from Acropolis-focused venues. The entire city unfolds around you. Modern design prioritises views through minimal obstruction.
The atmosphere is cosmopolitan and lively. Cocktails are professionally executed (€12-16). Central Ermou location provides easy access, and the venue often remains open later than other rooftops.
Kolokotroni 59B, Syntagma | +30 21 0321 7925
Open: Daily 6pm-3am
Noel embraces Christmas year-round, regardless of Athens’ blazing summer heat. This tiny bar has achieved beloved status by refusing to take itself seriously whilst taking cocktails seriously. The creative cocktails demonstrate genuine skill, with a menu incorporating seasonal ingredients.
Space is extremely limited – perhaps a dozen patrons maximum. Prices are very reasonable.
Dinokratous 4, Kolonaki | +30 21 0722 5246
Open: Monday-Saturday 9pm-3am
Jazz in Jazz is a jazz (who would have thought) and whisky bar that has been operating since 1978. Being here feels like drinking inside a carefully curated collection. This New Orleans-inspired venue functions as a museum of jazz culture, with walls crowded by black and white photos of legends, vintage instruments, and an enviable record collection providing great music throughout the night.
The approach to drinks is refreshingly traditional – classic cocktails executed properly and quality spirits served neat or on ice. The crowd tends toward jazz bars enthusiasts and older Athenians. Kolonaki location brings sophistication. Cocktails €12-15.
Kolokotroni 6, Syntagma | +30 21 0323 0445
Open: Monday-Saturday 5pm-2am
Barley Cargo offers excellent Greek craft beer selection alongside international options, curated by staff who genuinely understand brewing. The atmosphere is relaxed, attracting beer enthusiasts. Staff are notably knowledgeable about brewing styles.
Despite central location, Barley Cargo maintains local feel. Craft beers €5-8.
Kolokotroni 57, Syntagma | +30 21 0321 4026
Open: Daily 6pm-3am
Booze Cooperativa embraces quirky alternative aesthetics – eclectic decoration creating cool vibe. This is where Athens’ artistic communities gather. The drinks menu features creative cocktails at affordable prices (€7-10).
The crowd skews younger and bohemian. Music tends toward indie, electronic, and hip hop. Unpretentious in the best way.
Avramiotou 6-8, Monastiraki | +30 21 0321 0510
Open: Daily 10am-late (hours vary by event)
Six D.O.G.S is a multi-space cultural venue where bars coexist with art exhibitions, live music performances, and DJ sets. The converted neoclassical building contains courtyard bar, indoor spaces, and rooftop terrace.
This is a cultural hub for Athens’ creative community. Programming includes photography exhibitions, live bands, and electronic music. Drinks are solid (€6-10). The crowd is predominantly young, creative Athenians. Check events calendar before visiting.
Leof. Vasilissis Sofias & Irodotou, Kolonaki | +30 21 0361 1225
Open: Monday-Saturday 6pm-2am
Gin Joint offers over 200 gin varieties from around the world. Staff possess expertise to guide exploration. The design is sleek, and the crowd sophisticated. Beyond extensive gin selection, the cocktail list demonstrates proper understanding of the spirits.
Cocktails €14-18. For gin enthusiasts, this is essential Athens drinking.
Syntagma Square functions as Athens’ central hub. Kolokotroni Street has emerged as the cocktail corridor, with exceptional bars (42 Bar, Noel, Barley Cargo, Booze Cooperativa) concentrated along several blocks. Excellent metro connections (Syntagma station), proximity to hotels, and density of options within walking distance. Cocktails €10-16.
Getting there: Syntagma metro (Lines 2 and 3)
Famous for rooftop bars offering Acropolis views – A for Athens and Couleur Locale most prominent. The area combines tourist appeal with genuine historical character. Six D.O.G.S sits on the border, embodying creative energy. Excellent metro connections and English widely spoken.
Getting there: Monastiraki metro (Lines 1 and 3)
Northwest of Monastiraki, Psyrri contains Athens’ bohemian nightlife soul. This area comes alive after midnight, when bars overflow onto the street and live music spills from doorways. The aesthetic is gritty-chic – street art, neoclassical buildings, venues embracing character over polish. Predominantly Athenian crowd. Generally affordable (drinks €6-10).
Getting there: Walk from Monastiraki (5 minutes) or Thissio metro
Modern nightlife district with industrial-chic aesthetic around Technopolis cultural centre. Athens’ LGBTQ+ friendly hub. The area skews toward clubs and late night venues with live music and DJ sets. High energy, busy atmosphere. Many venues operate until sunrise on weekends.
Getting there: Kerameikos metro (Line 3)
For first-time visitors: Begin in Monastiraki or Syntagma. Start with sunset drinks at a rooftop bar (A for Athens for amazing views), then explore Kolokotroni Street’s cocktail corridor.
For authentic local atmosphere: Psyrri delivers genuine Athenian nightlife. Arrive after midnight when the area truly comes alive.
Transport: Metro runs until midnight (12:30am Friday/Saturday). For late returns, taxis are plentiful and affordable (€5-10 for central journeys).
Timing: Most bars begin filling 10-11pm, peak around midnight-1am, continuing strong until 3-4am weekends.
Booking: The Clumsies, Baba au Rum, and popular rooftop bars benefit from reservations Thursday-Saturday. Smaller venues operate first-come, first-served.
Athens has genuinely earned its place among Europe’s most exciting nightlife destinations. The diversity here represents quality cocktail culture whilst maintaining distinctly Greek character. What makes drinking in Athens special is how the experience unfolds across neighbourhoods – how ancient and modern coexist, and how warmth consistently accompanies expertise.
Adjust your expectations to Athens’ rhythm. This is a late night city where patience rewards you. Whether you’re seeking world-class cocktails with Acropolis views, authentic neighbourhood bars where locals gather, or venues where Athens’ creative spirit thrives, the city delivers experiences that make your evening hours as memorable as daytime explorations.
Your Athens nights are waiting. Enjoy every moment.
