In Athens, coffee isn’t just a drink—it’s a daily ritual, a companion that follows locals through every hour of the day. Athenians linger over their cups, chatting with friends or watching life unfold from sunlit terraces.
Cafés and canteens line nearly every street, each one offering its own charm.
Everyone has a favorite spot, but these eight cafés in Athens that capture the spirit of the city best—blending warmth, creativity, and that unmistakable Athenian energy.
Related read: A Guide to the Best Street Food in Athens
Here’s an overview:
8 Authentic Cafés in Athens
Kimolia Art Cafe
Kimolia Art Cafe is a modest cafe, located near Syntagma Square, that will take you by surprise. With Art Deco decor and a Parisian vibe, this is an ideal all-day coffee spot.
Coffee, tea, drinks, and a few but wonderful snacks and treats can be enjoyed in its cosy interior, which has paintings, antiques, handicrafts, and a piano. The cafe also holds temporary art exhibits and book sessions.
Best for: Artistic vibes and relaxed conversations
Address: Ypereidou 5, Syntagma
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Vrysaki
Vrysaki is a lovely cafe-bar located on Vrysakiou Street in the middle of Monastiraki, housed in a restored neoclassical building. With its shaded courtyard, upstairs balcony, and rooftop view of the Acropolis, it provides a tranquil escape from the tourist crowds.
Inside, you will find cosy rooms that often host art exhibitions. The menu includes gourmet appetisers and high-quality coffee.
One fascinating fact about the location is that this building is the last remaining house from the once-thriving neighbourhood of Vrysaki, which was demolished in the 1930s to uncover the site of Athens’ Ancient Agora.
Best for: Quiet afternoons and cultural events
Address: Vrysakiou 17, Monastiraki
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Ciel Athens
There are several locations, particularly near Monastiraki and Ermou Street, that provide amazing views of the Acropolis and the surrounding streets. Ciel Athens is one of them, and its terrace, which has a 360-degree view, will make you feel like you’re flying over Athens.
The coffee is delicious, as are the different sweets, snacks, and entrees. Even if the weather is cold, there is no need to miss out on the breathtaking vista. The view of Mitropoleos Square and Acropolis Hill is spectacular from the cafe’s interior and large side windows.
Best for: Coffee with a view of the Acropolis
Address: Mnisikleus 2, Monastiraki
Little Tree – Books and Coffee
Little Tree is located just a few metres from Dionisiou Areopagitou Street, near the Acropolis Museum. This charming cafe and bookshop was developed by a group of friends to serve as a gathering place for the locals. It is packed with books and is always up to date on new editions.
At the same time, you may find superb coffee, tea, sweets, snacks, and a carefully curated selection of wines. The secret has spread throughout the city, making it difficult to find a table during peak hours.
Best for: Reading and relaxed coffee breaks
Address: Kavaloti 5, Koukaki
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Aerostato
Aerostato, located on the lush Proskopon Square in the bustling area of Pagrati, is a popular all-day restaurant that expertly blends neighbourhood charm with laid-back refinement. The cafe has become something of a local institution, thanks to its retro-inspired decor, comfortable round tables that foster conversation, and welcoming atmosphere.
By day, it offers coffee and light lunches. The ambiance changes in the evening with jazz music and a well-stocked bar.
Best for: Day-to-night lounging and great music
Address: Ptolemaion 4, Pagrati
Ohh Boy
The modest establishment has a nice interior and a few tables on the pavement, and it is often busy. Aside from the well-picked coffee and tea, what distinguishes this coffee shop are its delectable handcrafted desserts. Classic and beloved food that no one could refuse.
Also, if you are hungry, several snacks known as “small eats” will satisfy you. This is an excellent place for a cosy coffee break in the attractive Pagrati district, close to Proskopon Square.
Best for: Sweet treats and people-watching in Pagrati
Address: Archelaou 32, Pagrati
Kyrios Xou
Kyrios Χoυ is a wonderful all-day cafe-bar set in a 1930s neoclassical villa in Petralona. It has become known for its laid-back vibe and welcome neighbourhood feel.
From a morning espresso or freddo to a vibrant brunch in the sun-filled patio, the cafe delivers great meals made with fresh Greek ingredients in a calm, modern atmosphere. In the evening, the atmosphere changes gently, making it a popular spot for sipping a drink and lingering with friends.
Best for: Brunch or evening drinks in a historic setting
Address: Iperionos 1, Petralona
Roasting Warehouse Athens
The Roasting Warehouse in Neos Kosmos is considerably different from the city’s traditional cafes. This is the first outlet in Greece for the popular Australian coffee brand. The cafe’s gorgeous, enormous space makes it ideal at any time of day. The coffee is roasted in the sophisticated workshop in front of you, so it is always fresh.
Quality coffees (both blends and single origins) are available here, along with delicious pastries and great brunch items. With its dedication to quality and enthusiasm for coffee culture, it’s no surprise that this establishment has rapidly become a popular addition to the local scene.
Best for: Specialty coffee lovers and brunch fans
Address: Ntelakroua 2, Neos Kosmos
Coffee is More Than a Beverage in Greece
In Athens, coffee is more than a beverage—it’s a ritual, a rhythm that shapes the city’s daily life. From the sunlit terraces overlooking the Acropolis to the quiet corners filled with books and conversation, every cafe tells a story of connection and culture.
These coffee spots are where people dream, friends gather, and time slows just enough for life to be savoured sip by sip. To experience coffee in Athens is to feel the pulse of the city itself—warm, vibrant, and endlessly inviting.
