Located in the heart of the city, Syntagma is one of the liveliest neighborhoods in Athens. It is both a meeting point for the Athenians and a place of passage for tourists. Here is a selection of the best places to drink a coffee in this noisy and lively neighborhood.
Public Cafe-Restaurant in Syntagma square: Athens seen from above
On the fifth and last floor of the Public store (a department store that sells books, music, computer equipment…), you will find a café that offers an exceptional view. Certainly one of the most beautiful views of Syntagma Square! So sit behind the large windows or on the terrace. And, enjoy a breathtaking view of the square with the Parliament and Mount Hymette in the background. This is a perfect place to get some height.
The little extra: Accessible by elevator to disabled persons and strollers
Numismatic Museum Cafe: an oasis of calm and greenery
Just a stone’s throw from Syntagma Square, the café located in the garden of the numismatic museum is a haven of peace. Here, you can enjoy your drink surrounded by trees and plants, a real treat in this high traffic area. Good value for money.
The little extra: take the opportunity to visit the numismatic museum which traces the history of Greece, from antiquity to the present day, through 600,000 coins.
Winter Garden of the Great Britain Hotel: the luxury of a palace on Syntagma Square
The winter garden of this historic and majestic hotel is perhaps the most refined and enchanting refuge in Athens. The prestigious setting offers a quiet atmosphere, away from the constant hustle and bustle of the square. Glass roof with colored stained glass, colonnades, marble floor and real palm trees. The decor is superb. The place has the old-fashioned charm of the great traditional palaces.
Unfortunately, the prices are as high as the prestige of the place. Nevertheless, the place is worth a visit.
The little extra: the place is entirely non-smoking
Chatzis: for a traditionnal Greek coffee
Sit on the second floor of Chatzis, this famous pastry shop, and enjoy a real Greek coffee. The specialty of the house is the “moula moustafa coffee“, that is to say a Greek coffee served in the briki (small copper pan), accompanied by rose liqueur and a loukoum.
The little extra: The place also offers excellent pastries. For example baklavas and kataifis (oriental pastries made from angel hair, almonds, cinnamon and sugar, very popular in Greece).
Laure M.
Updated April 19, 2024
