Best Things To Do In Psiri, Athens: Your Ultimate Local Guide

Discover the bustling and colorful life of Psiri neighborhood in Athens with our helpful local guide.

Sunny Athens is reader-supported. Some links on this page may be affiliate links, meaning we may earn a small commission at no extra cost to you, if you make a purchase. This helps support our work and keeps our travel tips honest and independent. Learn more in Advertise Disclosure.

Psiri is one of the oldest Athenian neighborhoods, situated in the rectangle formed by Athinas, Ermou, Sarri and Evripidou streets.

During the Ottoman Years it was significantly larger, and it even encompassed the area known today as Monastiraki.

In its old heyday, Psiri was the go-to area in Athens for merchants and all sorts of craftsmen.

In later years, the neighborhood fell into decay as new ways of commerce and new manufacturing technologies were introduced.

Naturally, decadence brought crime and soon Psiri became one of the most shady areas in Athens.

Eventually, crime was subdued and the neighborhood was left to decline until the 1990s when Psiri became the first area in Athens to be gentrified, before even the term was widely spread.

Today, Psiri is one of the most popular areas among visitors, filled with cafés, bars and restaurants, as you will see in the following local guide we prepared.

Psiri Highlights

1. Iroon Square

Iroon Square (meaning “The Square of Heroes”), also known as Psiri Square, is the central point of the area.

It was historically the meeting place for people in the area and it took its contemporary shape in the 1850s.

It is named in honor of the “Heroes of 1821,” Greece’s Independence War against the Ottoman Empire.

2. To Koulouri Tou Psiri

To Koulouri Tou Psiri is one of the most famous bakeries in Athens, but not for its bread.

Since the 1960s it prepares daily the famous Salonica Koulouri, a delicious simple bread-snack shaped like a ring with sesame.

It is open 24 hours a day, so you can enjoy it early in the day with your breakfast or even late at night after having a few drinks.

3. a.antonopoulou.art

One of the oldest and most prestigious independent art galleries in Athens, a.antonopoulou.art is a classic staple of Psiri for art lovers.

Featuring primarily (but not exclusively) contemporary Greek artists it always rewards your visit if you are in the area.

Things To Do And See In Psiri, Athens

1. Explore On Foot

They may be gentrified, but the narrow streets of Psiri still hold some of the ambiance of old Athens.

The best way to experience is to simply let yourself go and walk around discovering and admiring the local architecture.

While wandering, be on the lookout for some amazing street art by some of the best local and international artists.

2. Enjoy Some Coffee Or Brunch

If you want a pick-me-up break during your exploration of Psiri, why not try some of the best roasted coffee in Athens?

Myller Coffee Shop is a modern, slick yet cosy, coffee shop with laid back vibes; enjoy the expertly prepared coffee and pair it with some delicious vegan snacks.

Alternatively, if you’re having a lazy morning (it’s your holiday after all!) and you’re in the mood for a hearty brunch experience, The Brunchers have you more than covered.

3. Satisfy Your Sweet Tooth

On the other hand, if you have a strong sweet tooth, there are two great spots in Psiri for you.

Ta Serbetia tou Psiri, a family-run business keeping a strong eye on tradition, is one of the best places of its kind in Athens. 

Enjoy its renowned traditional syrupy delights or some of its other sweet creations with your coffee, while taking in the local ambiance.

If you are a fan of ice cream, then your destination is Kokkion, a tiny place with immense handmade flavor.

Choose freely from its playful suggestions of gelato and sorbet but don’t skip its 85% cocoa chocolate or mascarpone-bergamont flavor!

4. Spice Up Your Stay!

And we mean that literally, as Evripidou street is famous for its spice shops, still holding a decades long tradition.

You can visit Bahar, the oldest store in the area, and find all sorts of herbs and spices, even things you’ve never heard of!

Their very experienced and knowledgeable staff will answer any questions you might have.

Places To Eat In Psiri

1. Ta Karamanlidika Tou Fani

This local deli-meets-meze place is known beyond Psiri and people come from all over Athens to enjoy its delicacies.

Here you can find cured meats and delicious cheeses among several other meze plates suitable for ouzo or tsipouro.

You should definitely try the “pastourmas” (a turkish version of pastrami, we could say) and the saganaki cheese with egg. 

2. Nikitas

This humble, family operated taverna opened in 1967 primarily to provide meals for the people working in the area.

Known for its generous portions, honest prices and deep homely taste, Nikitas has become a local standard with dedicated customers.

Come here to enjoy classic recipes like soutzoukakia: meatballs with cumin in red sauce over home made fries.

3. En Iordani

Although it is located right next to Iroon Square, this is a relatively quiet eatery, perfect if you want to avoid the touristy crowds.

Here you will find simple seasonal and traditional recipes with a creative touch cooked with great care.

4. Enastron

If you are in a more casual-bohemian mood and would like the occasional live band with your meal, then Enastron is your place.

Enjoy its lovely courtyard, its playful greek cuisine dishes and, above all, the fresh fish and the house wine.

Nightlife In Psiri

1. Barrett

This all-day bar-café really comes alive at night attracting a mixed crowd with its rocking vibe and buzzing ambiance.

Barrett also operates as an exhibition space, having various local artists display their works on its walls.

2. Cantina Social

It may be hidden in one of the narrowest streets in Psiri, but Cantina Social is a classic indie place known to the alternative crowds of Athens.

Entering its concealed courtyard feels like discovering a vibrant microcosm filled with funky music, great drinks and cool people.

3. Tranzistor

For a laid-back drink in a cool vintage setting with music ranging from electronica to jazzy grooves, Tranzistor is for you.

Enjoy one of the great cocktails inside for a full bar experience or out in front for street people-watching.

4. Bad Tooth

For the fans of punk rock or underground hip-hop sounds, this gritty, urban-meets-industrial style joint is the spot!

Dive in, get a drink or a beer and enjoy one of the frequent live acts from local bands.

Best Hotels In Psiri

1. Ivis 4 Boutique Hotel

For a stylish boutique hotel experience with a touch of luxury, the chic and eco-conscious Ivis 4 Boutique Hotel is an excellent choice.

Admire the view of the Acropolis from your room balcony or have an elevated culinary Mediterranean experience in the restaurant.

2. Arion Athens Hotel

Comfy yet elegant style and supreme location in the heart of Psiri make Arion Athens Hotel a very convenient choice.

Its rooftop restaurant with amazing views of the Acropolis is a perfect hang out for all times of the day.

3. Attalos Hotel

Attalos Hotel has been a dependable favorite of the area for years, offering cozy rooms and friendly atmosphere.

It too boasts -yes, you guessed it!- one of the best views of the Acropolis from its roof garden restaurant, ideal for breakfast or a chilled drink.

And if you like the idea of having a nice drink under the stars on a cool rooftop overlooking Athens and the Acropolis, you can also check our guide with the Best 10 Rooftop Bars in Athens!

---

Make the Most of Your Athens Trip

I hope you enjoyed this local’s guide to Psiri in Athens!

If you’d like to explore Greek cuisine further, don’t miss our Food Tours Comparison Guide.

You can also find great ideas to enrich your trip in our Best Day Trips from Athens guide.

Lastly, if you enjoyed this article, feel free to subscribe to our newsletter using the form below: it’s packed with all the must-know tips and info to make your Athens trip easy and unforgettable.