Athens’ bar scene offers an incredible diversity that goes far beyond traditional kafenions, encompassing everything from world-renowned cocktail institutions and natural wine specialists to rooftop terraces with ancient views and innovative streetside concepts. After exploring the city’s diverse drinking offerings, from natural wine havens to globally acclaimed cocktail lounges, I’ve curated this guide highlighting essential spots that capture the authentic spirit of drinking in Athens.

And if you’re looking for the perfect meal to complement your drinks, check out my Athens Best Restaurants guide for the city’s top street food legends, neighborhood gems, and contemporary dining experiences!

World-Class Cocktail Destinations

These internationally acclaimed establishments have put Athens on the global cocktail map, where master bartenders create innovative drinks that rival the world’s best bars.

The Line

Ranked #6 on the World’s 50 Best Bars 2024, this former art gallery with soaring ceilings houses on-site fermentation tanks, in addition to their phenomenal cocktail program.

Known For: House-made ingredients and ferments, seasonal cocktail twists on classics, plus artisanal bread

Open Daily

Pro Tip: Try their latest fermented creations paired with the house-made bread that shares ingredients with their on-site beer.

The Clumsies

This three-story cocktail palace has consistently ranked among the World’s 50 Best Bars, currently holding the #19 position. The all-day bar includes The Room, an intimate upstairs space with fireplace, bookcase, and billiard table for private groups.

Known For: Innovative cocktails by Greek World Class Winners

Open Daily

Pro Tip: The entrance is discreet and easy to miss.

Baba au Rum

This 1960s-inspired rum specialist has maintained its position on the World’s 50 Best Bars list for over a decade, bringing revolutionary cocktail culture to Athens when it opened 13 years ago.

Known For: Extensive rum collection from around the world, personalized cocktails tailored to individual preferences

Open Daily

Pro Tip: After cocktails at Baba au Rum, head across the street the next morning to their sister property In Love Again for exceptional coffee and cocktail-inspired pastries.

Wine Excellence

These establishments celebrate the art of wine, offering curated selections that showcase Greek terroir and exceptional wine collections.

Tanini Agape Mou – Τανίνη Αγάπη Μου

This ambitious natural wine bar offers an unprecedented 93 out of 100 wines by the glass. The plant-draped space features sustainable birchwood furniture and showcases exclusively Greek natural, organic, and biodynamic wines.

Known For: 93 Greek wines available by the glass with a focus on natural and biodynamic wines

Open Daily

Pro Tip: The team’s “anti-snob” approach makes it perfect for both wine newcomers and serious enthusiasts wanting to explore Greek terroir.

Vintage Wine Bar and Bistro

This renowned wine bar in the historic center offers one of Athens’ most impressive wine collections.

Known For: Over 1,200 wine labels with 300+ by the glass and custom cheese platters with 30+ selections

Closed: Sunday

Pro Tip: Reservations are highly recommended as this popular spot doesn’t encourage walk-ins. Be sure to ask about their unbelievable back vintages and rare bottle selections.

Urban Innovation & Rooftop Views

These establishments represent Athens’ creative drinking culture, where innovative concepts and spectacular views create memorable experiences in the heart of the ancient city.

Bar in Front of the Bar

This unconventional streetside cocktail bar started as a temporary pop-up on pedestrian Petraki Street but became so popular that the owners made it permanent. The bold concept features large sans-serif text messages that change frequently, zero-waste philosophy, and a hidden jungle-themed speakeasy (Rumble in the Jungle) behind it.

Known For: Zero-waste cocktail philosophy and daily-changing menu based on seasonality and inspiration

Open Daily

Pro Tip: Enjoy the large sign above displaying quirky, changing messages – they’re part of the bar’s bold and unconventional character.

A for Athens

This rooftop cocktail bar and restaurant in Monastiraki offers one of Athens’ finest views of the Acropolis and surrounding cityscape.

Known For: Spectacular Acropolis views, creative cocktails

Open Daily

Pro Tip: The rooftop terrace provides unparalleled sunset views of the Acropolis. Note they do not take reservations for the bar (and you do have to walk through the hotel to get to the rooftop elevator).

Final Thoughts

Athens’ bar scene truly offers something for every drinking preference and occasion, from world-renowned cocktails served in award-winning establishments to natural Greek wines enjoyed in plant-filled neighborhood haunts. Whether you’re toasting with a perfectly crafted cocktail overlooking the Acropolis or discovering rare Greek wines in an intimate, plant-filled space, so many fabulous options await.

Hoping to experience the best of Athens’ bar scene on your next visit? Reach out using the button below, and let’s start planning your unforgettable Athens adventure!