Athens reloaded- The hipster’s walk
Our hipster walk begins just off Korai Street passing through the numerous stoas (ancient covered walkways) of the city where cult cinemas and hidden stores conjure up old-time stories and feelings of the city.
Our first stop is a jewellery workshop run by a young, local artist. The showroom is located in an old grocery market building in the buzzing city centre. We’ll chat to the artist about her techniques and browse through her unique pieces as we find out what it takes to open a business during turbulent financial times.
At our next stop, you’ll enjoy a gourmet and organic snack in a hip street food eatery that serves up authentic local food, made from traditional recipes of Greece and Minor East. They use only products produced and packaged by local farmers and vendors; by eating here you’re supporting the living of local food producers.
We just love this next stop, a spice house that’s so heady with aromas you will feel as though you have stepped into the ancient Orient. Here you will learn about the importance of Greece’s geographical location, bringing together traders from East and West. Let your senses be awakened by thousands of years of history as you browse the Asian and African spices, Greek and Balkan herbs, Indian sauces and famous French tea brands.
From the spice shop, we’ll walk through a hidden side street of Athens, loved by the hipster community because of its quaint little bars, cool vibes and charming neoclassical buildings that surround it. If we’re lucky and they’re not recording, we’ll visit a contemporary creative music lab and studio and experience a musical presentation.
A caffeine fix is up next, at a cooperative that promotes fair-trade products, with the aim of directy supporting local producers.
Your next culinary experience is coming from a foodie joint that sits on a lovely pedestrian street. Get into the ethnic mood as you’re welcomed by the friendly owners, enjoy the exotic smells and sample a tasty savory delight made by mamá’s fair hand.
Once you’ve filled your belly, you will take a wander in the Commercial Triangle District, an area that has been completely reborn in the last decade due to the new generation’s creativity through crisis.
Next up we’ll head, via the Red Light District, to one of the most alternative neighborhoods of Athens, known as Psirri. We will pass by artsy alleys, innovative designers collectives, vintage shops, secret underground clubs and hip hangouts. Discover old items and recall your childhood memories as we admire the frequent nods to the glorious culture of the 1980s & 90s.
Your Athens Reloaded Hipster walking tour comes to an end with a yummy organic ice cream made with fresh, high-quality products.
From our last stop, you can choose to continue your own personal exploration (your guide will be more than happy to advise you on your next move) or you could join us in another area of the city for a different view of Athens on our Bohemian Tales of the City tour.
Whatever you choose to do, don’t forget to tap up your local guide for more hints and tips on how to get the best out of your trip to amazing Athens!