PSIRI NEIGHBORHOOD
ABOUT PSIRI
Psiri is in the very heart of the action in Athens. It centers on Iroon (Heroes) Square, whose surrounding streets are lined with lively bars, cozy coffee shops, and artisanal as well as hip stores. Bars with DJs stay open late, as do tavernas serving traditional specialties like meatballs and Greek salad. There is no shortage of things to do in Psiri, where Athenians themselves often choose to go to for a night out or to shop.
See and Do
Visit the ancient cemetery of Kerameikos, where archaeologists have found columns and temples, marble statues, funeral offerings and thousands of tombs. The Museum of Islamic Art has an impressive permanent collection and hosts temporary exhibitions. Psiri is also home to the Pottery Museum and the unique Museum of Illusions, a fun place to visit, especially with the kids.
Eat
The restaurant scene in Psiri is very diverse. Among those we recommend are Oinopoleion, a popular traditional rustic tavern and wine cellar which specializes in wine straight from the owners farm in the suburbs of Athens. The only kosher restaurant in Athens, Gostijo, is located in Psiri, offering a journey through the Mediterranean flavors of the Sefardi Jews. Krasopoulio tou Kokkora is a warm and authentic Greek taverna decorated with old antiques well-known for its excellent cuisine and Ta Serbetia Stou Psirri is a family-run shop that first opened its doors in 1997 and is famous for outstanding desserts.
Party
Psiri is the perfect place to go out at night as there is a bevy of spots to choose from. Tranzistor is a colorfully decorated, friendly bar that offers an excellent range of drinks at reasonable prices. Cantina Social Bar, with a simple interior and a cozy atmosphere is renowned for its Russian beers and for the indie music it often plays. It attracts the counter culture crowd as well as hipsters. The Buena Vista Social Bar has a great range of cocktails and bar food, with nice views of the Acropolis. Finally, there is the Foundry Hotel Rooftop Bar. On a warm Athenian night, there's nothing better than heading to a rooftop bar like this to enjoy a refreshing drink and a fun vibe.
Shop
Psiri will most definitely please shopping lovers. Walking around you will spot many boutique and alternative clothing stores. There is The Real Intellectuals for handmade clothes and accessories. Natural colors, simplicity and reasonable prices make their wares especially attractive. High-end shops like Tonic Essentials have an enchanting collection of perfumes and toiletries. Karras Leather is a craftwork studio which sells real vintage styled bags and other goods. The main aim of the studio is to design long-lasting leather goods of the highest quality. Hidden Showroom is a small industrial boutique/showroom literally hidden in a side street in Psyrri, the bohemian, arty district of Athens, where fashion addicts find their favorite signature clothes and accessories, by young talented designers.
