Australian model Mary Vitinaros is accustomed to an international lifestyle. Born in Melbourne to Italian and Greek parents, Mary has spent most of her adult life traversing the globe as an international supermodel, including a seven-year stint in New York City. When Mary was asked to become a coach on Greece’s Next Top Model, she decided to make Athens her home. Two years later, she hasn’t looked back.
“There are so many things I love about Athens. I feel like it really is such an underrated and overlooked city,” she tells ELLE Australia. “From its remarkable weather to the abundance of fresh, delicious cuisine, and the warm, welcoming culture, Athens truly has it all.”
Athens has become a go-to stop on the European summer trail, boasting fun nightlife, excellent food, and a vibrant, youthful creative scene. So, when it insider tips on where to stay, what to eat and where to go in this exciting coastal metropolis, I decided to ask someone who lives there.
We sat down with Mary to get her local travel tips, including Athens’ best restaurants and bars, and what makes it a stylish city.
The Best Places To Go In Athens: Tips From A Local
Who better to ask for travel advice than the stylish and cosmopolitan Mary Vitinaros?
Where To Stay In Athens
For staying down south by the beach: The Four Seasons Astir Palace Hotel. The resort is stunning, great beach access and top restaurants within the resort. You don’t need to venture out.
Staying in the centre: The Dolli Hotel – modern with aesthetically pleasing interiors, the rooftop has a view of the Acropolis accompanied by a rooftop pool.
*sidenote – Kolonaki is one of my favourite areas in Athens – it’s in the centre, walking distance from all the sights, so many cute and trendy bars/restaurants around. Definitely worth looking into cute Airbnb’s in this area.
The Best Restaurants In Athens
Best Souvlaki:
- Lefteris O Politis – this is just my favorite souvlaki, the pita bread is so juicy!
- Volvi – a cute little hole in the wall spot
Best Beach Restaurant:
- Krabo – this place is fun and the food is amazing! There are also lots of sunbeds and beach access for the day time. I love to go on a Sunday afternoon for lunch and then a DJ starts playing into the evening.
Best Seafood Restaurant:
- Hasapika – located in the fish market in the centre of Athens, it’s a very chill place, however the quality of fish is amazing.
Best Burger:
- Ekiben – the smash burger in unmatched!
Best Authentic Greek Taverna:
- Nisiotissa – Located in the northern suburb of Vrilissia, it has some of the best seafood I have had! Perfect for a Saturday or Sunday afternoon lunch. The Karavithopsiha is a must!
Best Cafe In Athens
Me in Kolonaki – a cute brunch spot that is always buzzing and has great atmosphere
Best Bar In Athens
Kalua – A rooftop bar with a view of the acropolis
Best Date Spot In Athens
Ithaki – the food is amazing and the view is just stunning. Sunset here is perfect.
Where To Shop In Athens
The Ermou strip, starting from Syntagma and stretching all the way to Plaka. Along this route, you’ll also discover numerous hidden gems nestled within the charming backstreets branching off Ermou.
For more high-end shopping, I love to wander through Voukouretsiou street which is not too far from Ermou.
The Best Local Designer
Eirini Makkou is an extremely talented custom dress designer, offering a collection of ready-to-wear dresses that are then expertly tailored to fit your body perfectly. Alternatively, you can opt for a completely custom-made creation. The team is incredibly welcoming, and Eirini herself is an absolute delight to work with—a true gem in the industry.
What’s Your Best Travel Tip For Athens?
Consider exploring Athens during the off-season for a more authentic city experience. While July and August are peak months, May, June, and September still has amazing weather and fewer crowds. Don’t overlook winter either; it’s a completely different experience.
Don’t miss out on experiencing Bouzoukia, which is enjoyable in summer but has more of an authentic experience in the winter months.
Where do you go when you feel like being a tourist in your city?
When I want to embrace my inner tourist in my city, I head straight to the heart of Athens. I love to explore all the little stalls that line the cobblestone roads in Plaka. And of course, a visit to the Acropolis is essential, it is just magical, and the views are breathtaking!
What 3 Things Do You Always Take In Your Carry-On?
1. Phone charger
2. Home-made snacks
3. Face hydrating mist
ELLE recommends: Caudalie Beauty Elixir, $29 (30 ml – travel size)
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