ANASTASIA’S PERSONAL TOUR

FAVOURITE SHOPS

The Attic Black Shop

For authentic handmade Athenian ceramics using ancient ‘black glazing’ techniques. atticblack.com

Zama

The best haberdashery store in Athens, Zama was the first to import zips to Greece in the 1950s. Brimming with gorgeous adornments from ruffled cuffs to vintage buttons and lace collars. zama.com.gr

FAVOURITE GALLERY

The Gagosian gallery

Part of a network of galleries established by Larry Gagosian in Los Angeles in 1980, the Gagosian attracts some of the biggest names in contemporary art. gagosian.com

FAVOURITE CAFÉS/BARS

Balux

For a relaxed drink by the beach, Balux is an all day café and bar that resembles an oversized beach house. baluxcafe.com

Couleur Locale

A buzzing rooftop café and bar with a superb view of the Acropolis. couleurlocaleathens.com

Mokka

Brews coffee the traditional way and is located opposite the biggest farmers’ market in the city. mokka.gr/en/

FAVOURITE RESTAURANTS Diporto

Rustic simplicity, no menus, only a selection of authentic dishes made from scratch every day for more than 100 years (lunch only). Corner of Sokratous and Theatrou, Omonoia

Ta Karamanlidika tou Fani

A charcuterie and mezetzidiko serving artisanal cold meats. 52 Evripidou (corner of Socratous)

BEST VIEW

Take the funicular to the top of Lycabettus Hill. Later, explore the shops and restaurants of upmarket Kolonaki.

IF YOU ONLY SEE ONE THING

Climbing the Acropolis and visiting the Acropolis Museum is an obvious must. With that ticked off the list, head to Hellenic Parliament in Syntagma Square, a little before 11am on a Sunday, where the changing of the guard is a ceremonial highlight.