Lifestyle in Athens

The lifestyle in Athens is undoubtedly one of the city's major perks. The city is a great springboard for travel throughout the country. During the warmer months, the Greek islands are popular for getaways, while the picturesque coastal towns and villages of the Peloponnese region are just an hour or two away. 

In the summer, the Athens Riviera along the city's southern coast is packed with beach lovers who don't have to travel far to enjoy a day in the sun. There are numerous opportunities for entertainment and shopping in Athens too – the city has flea markets, modern malls, boutique stores, and a vibrant nightlife scene.

Shopping in Athens

For expats who love to shop, there are plenty of malls in the centre of Athens, as well as some gorgeous boutiques in the Kolonaki area. For those who prefer large malls and outdoor shopping centres, there is The Mall Athens, Golden Hall and Avenue Mall, all within minutes of each other in Marousi. Athens's massive flea market in Monastiraki is also always worth a visit.

Shopping in Athens

Nightlife in Athens

The nightlife in Athens is exciting and vibrant. Known as the 'new heart of Athens', Agia Irini Square in Monastiraki used to be a flower and textile market. Today it's packed on the weekends, thanks to a resurgence of trendy bars, cafés, and restaurants in the area.

Another well-known nightlife spot in Athens is Psirri. This area is squeezed between Monastiraki and Omonia and attracts quite a crowd at night. The area hosts an array of venues offering Greek food, live music and local spirits like ouzo and rakomelo.

The city's alternative edge, Exarchia attracts artistic, student and Bohemian crowds. The street art and graffiti-covered buildings house various grunge-chic bars and clubs, many of which play rock music. One of the most expensive suburbs in Athens, Kifissia has a distinct nightlife. The posh neighbourhood is dotted with upscale restaurants that are packed with a sophisticated crowd when the weekend comes around.

The southern suburbs of Athens are just steps away from the sea, so summer is the best time to hit the area's glamorous open-air clubs. Glyfada, a large and upmarket neighbourhood, has numerous bars and restaurants that come alive on weekends.

Eating out in Athens

Eating out in Athens is a rich cultural and culinary experience. Expats will enjoy exploring Greek cuisine, which is world-famous for its fresh and locally sourced ingredients. Athens is home to more than 10 Michelin-starred restaurants, ranging from fine dining to casual eateries. 

Until the opening of its metro station, Gazi was a worn-down immigrant quarter characterised by the steely remnants of a defunct gasworks factory. Artistic minds then took over and forged a creative space that highlights the area's industrial history. Gazi is now lined with restaurants, bars and clubs, and in the thick of summer, it's difficult to walk around without bumping into anyone.

One of the capital's most upscale neighbourhoods, Kolonaki has its share of authentic tavernas, trendy bars, chic clubs, gourmet restaurants and atmospheric outdoor cafés. The cocktail bars on Skoufa are particularly popular with the after-work crowd.

Sports and outdoor activities in Athens

The history of sports in Greece dates back to ancient times, and fans can still attend international events at one of the five major venues in the Athens Olympic Sports Complex. Among these venues is the Panathenaic Stadium (Kallimarmaro), where the first modern Olympic Games were held in 1896.

Aside from this, riding clubs, football fields and basketball courts can be found throughout Athens. Mountain bikers, hikers, and trail runners take to Mount Immitos to get lost in the lush and scenic trails on the east side of the city. Water sports facilities line the southern suburbs of Athens, where the beaches are awash with people during the warmer months.

Meeting people and making friends in Athens

When initially moving to Athens, meeting people and making friends may be among expats' top priorities. Building your own community in your new home can make the experience feel less isolating, and joining a local club or interest group is the best way to get started on meeting people and making friends in Athens. 

Volunteering is another great way to make local connections while contributing positively to your community. Greeks are known for being friendly, especially towards expats, so you're sure to make friends quickly in Athens. 

Useful links

• Meetup – Athens
• SORBA Athens
• Caritas Athens
• Athens Watersports Club