Guide to the Kolonaki neighborhood in Athens

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Kolonaki is the perfect place to stay in Athens if you want a less touristy alternative to areas near the Acropolis. Located on the slopes of Mount Lycabettus, Kolonaki (meaning “little column") is a blend of neoclassical and modern architecture, lined with designer boutiques, trendy cafés, and high-end restaurants. It’s a favorite spot for affluent locals, artists, and fashion-forward visitors.

This guide covers everything you need to know about Kolonaki: what to do, where to eat, where to stay, and how to get there.

Is Kolonaki a good neighborhood?

Yes! Kolonaki is one of Athens’ safest and most upscale areas. It’s centrally located, making it easy to explore major landmarks like Lycabettus Hill and Syntagma Square. The neighborhood attracts a mix of wealthy locals, professionals, and expats who appreciate its refined atmosphere.

However, keep in mind that Kolonaki is one of the more expensive areas in Athens. If you prefer an edgier, more alternative vibe, you might want to explore neighborhoods like Exarchia or Psiri.

What is Kolonaki known for?

Kolonaki is known for its luxury boutiques, high-end restaurants, and café culture. Key highlights of Kolonaki include:

Shopping: designer stores, high-end fashion boutiques, and art galleries.
Cafés and restaurants: trendy coffee spots and fine dining establishments.
Museums and culture: The Benaki Museum, the Kotsanas Museum of Ancient Greek Technology, and numerous galleries.
Nightlife: Chic bars and clubs.

What to do in Kolonaki, Athens?

Sure, you could just eat and drink your way through Kolonaki (not judging), but there’s more to explore:

Museums and culture in Kolonaki

Kotsanas Museum of Ancient Greek Technology - Inside a historic Art Noveau building, you’ll be able to explore technology invented by the Ancient Greeks thousands of years ago. Buy your tickets on the museum website for 7€.
Benaki Museum – A must-visit for art and history lovers, with hundreds of thousands of artworks from all historical periods, from the Paleolithic to the 20th century. Some of the exhibits are free and you can check on their website the price for paid exhibits.
Museum of Cycladic Art – Home to 3rd-millennium BC marble figurines, vases, and bronze tools from the Cycladic civilization. Buy your tickets on the museum website for 18€.

Shopping in Kolonaki

Voukourestiou Street – Athen’s top shopping street, home to high-end boutiques like Dior, Cartier, and Louis Vuitton.
Greek designers – If you’re looking for local fashion instead of big brands, you’ll find several stores in Kolonaki from Greek designers.
Vintage stores – Browse second-hand luxury fashion and designer pieces at vintage stores in the area.

Outdoor activities in Kolonaki

Hike Mount Lycabettus – It’s a bit of a long hike, but it gets you the best panoramic views of Athens. If you’re not a fan of long walks, you can also take the cable car.

Is Kolonaki safe in Athens?

Yes, Kolonaki is one of the safest neighborhoods in Athens, even at night. The area is well-policed and frequented by professionals, diplomats, and affluent locals.

How to get to Kolonaki

Kolonaki is centrally located and easy to reach. However, Athens’ streets can be steep, so wear comfortable shoes!

Metro: Take Line 3 (Blue Line) to Evangelismos or Syntagma, then walk for 5-15 minutes.
Taxi: A short ride from Monastiraki or Plaka (5€-8€, depending on traffic).
On foot: If you’re already in the city center, it's a 15-minute walk from Syntagma Square.

Where to Stay in Kolonaki

Kolonaki is not where you’ll find cheap hostels. But if you’re after stylish boutique hotels or luxury apartments, you’re in the right place.

St. George Lycabettus Hotel – This 5-star hotel offers panoramic city views, rooftop dining, and a spa. Perfect if you want comfort and a good location.
Coco-Mat Hotel – A design-focused hotel with eco-friendly touches and the most comfortable mattresses ever (seriously, Coco-Mat is famous for them).
Travel Staytion – If apartments are more your style, Travel Staytion offers elegant rental options in Kolonaki.

Where to eat and drink in Kolonaki

This neighborhood is a foodie paradise, offering everything from gourmet experiences to casual eateries.

Philos Athens - A stylish bistro/cafe inside a neoclassical building, perfect for brunch or breakfast.
Frankie - A casual restaurant serving authentic Italian dishes, with a focus on sustainability and fresh ingredients.
Radka - A hidden restaurant with no online presence, loved by locals for its timeless atmosphere that hasn’t changed throughout the decades.
Cafe Boheme - A cozy Mediterranean and Greek cuisine spot open until 3 AM, making it ideal for late-night drinks.
Hi-Fai Grill House - A more budget-friendly choice, specializing in grilled meats.

Luggage storage in Kolonaki, Athens

Don’t let heavy bags hold you back during your stay! LUGGit offers a luggage pick-up and storage service anywhere in Athens. Use code BLOG10 for 10% off.