Your Ultimate Guide to Athens’ Most Upscale and Elegant Neighborhoods
If you are someone who seeks luxury, Athens is an ideal city for you as it brims with upscale neighborhoods that blend timeless elegance with contemporary living. From chic downtown districts to luxurious seaside suburbs, the Greek capital boasts a variety of prestigious areas that will fascinate you!
In this article, we are going to take a walk through Athens’ most upscale and elegant neighborhoods and discover the unique appeal each of them has to offer!
Kolonaki
Nestled in the foothills of Mount Lycabettus, Kolonaki is where the well-off Athenians live! This upscale neighborhood oozes charm in abundance as it seamlessly combines classic refinement with a modern artistic flair.
Filled with high-end designer boutiques, art galleries, sophisticated shops, hip bars, and gourmet restaurants, Kolonaki is a paradise for those who want to savor the upscale side of Athens. Besides shops, bars, and restaurants, there are also many luxurious hotels in Kolonaki where you can enjoy an opulent stay without being far from the city center. This is arguably one of the best places to stay in Athens for art lovers and stylish travelers!
Glyfada
Glyfada is one of the most upscale southern suburbs of Athens! Located in the heart of the Athenian Riviera, this neighborhood is known for its cosmopolitan flair and glamorous lifestyle. It offers not only a wide variety of high-end shops and boutiques but also a selection of excellent restaurants and trendy nightclubs. On top of that, it is full of sandy shores and luxurious beach clubs where you can enjoy the Mediterranean sun away from the hustle and bustle of the city center.
Marrying the allure of the Mediterranean Sea with the cosmopolitan character of the Athenian Riviera, Glyfada is a truly unique place to stay in Athens. Therefore, if you want to be within walking distance of the sea but also a plethora of shops and dining options, as well as the most upscale golf club in Athens, Glyfada is a one-way destination.
Kifisia
Tucked away in the upscale northern suburbs of Athens, Kifisia is an affluent neighborhood that blends residential character with timeless charm and refined luxury. Brimming with luxurious designer boutiques, neoclassical mansions, lush gardens, and upscale restaurants, Kifisia will make you feel worlds away from the city center. The hotels in Kifisia are also ultra-luxurious and offer an exclusive accommodation experience you cannot find everywhere!
If you are searching for a serene suburb where you can enjoy a quiet stay, take walks through lush parks like Alsos Kifissias and Kefalari Square, shop at the most luxurious designer boutiques, and taste delectable dishes, Kifisia is the perfect area to stay in Athens.
Vouliagmeni
Vouliagmeni is a beautiful seaside district situated in the cosmopolitan Athenian Riviera. Boasting a great location that offers panoramic views of the sea and easy access to several beaches, this neighborhood has an exotic vibe that lasts all year long! As for the scenery in Vouliagmeni, it resembles Miami or Cannes as it is teeming with palm trees, luxurious yachts, and high-end seaside restaurants.
However, the absolute highlight of the Vouliagmeni district is arguably Lake Vouliagmeni, a fairytale-like lake surrounded by lush greenery, cliffs, and hidden caves. The majestic scenery, the crystal-clear waters, and the underground mineral currents of Lake Vouliagmeni will make you feel as if you are in a natural spa. After you have enjoyed the crystalline waters, you can taste scrumptious dishes at the lake’s all-day restaurant, savoring the magical views!
Psychiko
Psychiko is one of the most upscale and exclusive districts in Athens! Located in the northern part of Athens, this neighborhood seamlessly combines natural beauty and serenity with timeless elegance and opulence. Psychiko is predominantly a residential area, with many well-off Athenians and diplomats choosing to live there due to the privacy it offers.
Except for its peaceful ambiance, though, Psychiko also offers a wide variety of high-end amenities, including chic boutiques, elite international schools, gourmet restaurants, and hip brunch spots. If you are searching for an exclusive non-touristy place to stay in Athens, then Psychiko is an ideal option!
Ekali
Situated in the verdant foothills of Mount Parnitha, Ekali boasts a unique natural beauty. Private, exclusive, and luxurious, this district stands out for its leafy landscapes, upscale residences with lush gardens and pools, top private schools, and family-friendly atmosphere. That’s why many well-off diplomat families choose to live there! Another reason why Athenians love Ekali is the renowned Ekali Club, an exclusive club that offers a wide range of high-end amenities like a golf club, excellent restaurants, luxurious shops, and sports activities.
If you are looking for a place to stay in Athens that marries exclusivity with natural beauty and luxury with serenity, Ekali might be the perfect option for you!
In Athens, you will not only find rich culture, fascinating history, and archaeological sites but also upscale and elegant neighborhoods like Kolonaki, Kifisia, Psychiko, and Vouliagmeni that offer cosmopolitan flair, high-end shopping, gourmet dining, and unique natural beauty. So, explore these areas to discover the refined and sophisticated side of Athens and enjoy the city’s timeless elegance!
