I first visited Greece 40 years ago. Back then, I was eager to explore all the neighborhoods of Athens, sampling street food and pastries between historic site and museum visits.  Now, when I visit Athens, I make my base in Makriyanni and Koukaki.

 

Unlike Syntagma and Plaka, Makriyanni and Koukaki are residential neighborhoods that border each other, though those borders can be fuzzy. Makriyanni is on the southeast side of the Acropolis, boundaried by  the cobblestoned Dionysios Aeropagitou Street  and busy Syngrou Avenue. As a point of reference, the Acropolis Museum and Herodion Hotel are in Makriyanni.  Koukaki is just below Makriyanni extending past Syngrou Avenue, partially bordering Plaka. Though this area is small, it is home to wonderful bakeries, carry-out and fine dining restaurants, shops, galleries and a few museums.  Below is a brief list of some of my favorite places in Makriyanni and Koukaki.

 

Stay:

The Herodion Hotel - My home away from home, just below the Acropolis, and ideal for walking.

 

Eat:

ManiMani - Creative twist on traditional cuisine prepared with high quality ingredients.

Strofi - Large selection of meze to share, and Acropolis views from the roof garden. 

Takis Bakery - Amazing bread, and a cult favorite. 

Acropolis Museum Café & Restaurant - Friday and Saturday night dinners on the terrace are special.

Point A – Acropolis view rooftop bar and restaurant at the Herodion Hotel; great for late night dining.

7Cactus - Greek Street Food Deli

 

Read and Caffeinate:

Little Tree Books - Buy a book and order coffee inside, then grab a seat outside under the shady tree. Most titles in Greek, but a few quality publications in English. Across from the Herodion Hotel.

 

Visit:

The Acropolis Museum - Finds from the Acropolis beautifully exhibited. This is a must-see for me.

The Lalaounis Museum - Amazing collection of creations by Ilias Lalaounis. Hidden gem.

 

Walk:

Dionysios Aeropagitou Street - Cobbled pedestrian street that runs along the Acropolis, Theatre of Dionysos, and the Theatre of Herod Atticus. Great people-watching.

Filopopappou Hill - The cool, green park just beyond Makriyanni. Believed to be where Socrates was imprisoned.