With an all-year-round mild climate and unbeatable views, it’s no wonder Athens is home to countless rooftop bars and restaurants. We’ve listed some of our favourite Athenian rooftops - some are classics, and some are soon-to-be-classics - which offer the perfect way to take in a picturesque sunset and welcome in yet another magical Athenian night.
Retirè
The newest addition to the Athenian rooftop scene (it opened in Summer 2019), Retirè is the lovechild of super-bar The Clumsies and gourmet Greek food house, Ergon. Located on the rooftop of Greece’s first Foodie Hotel, Ergon House, this rooftop oasis sits discreetly in the middle of bustling Mitropoleos street. Decked out with beach-chic wicker furniture and hues of white and beige that make you feel like you’re on a dreamy island escape, you can expect world-class cocktails (we recommend the Gin Basil Collins or the Paloma II), a great selection of Greek wine and beer, and gourmet hotdogs on the snack menu. Oh, and did we mention the added bonus of the Acropolis view?
Retirè at Ergon House - Level 4 Mitropoleos 26-28, Athens (Open from 5pm)
Coleur Locale
This all-day rooftop opened its doors in Summer 2014 and fast became a favourite for those looking for an alternative to the overcrowded rooftop bars of Monastiraki. As the name suggests, this bar aims to give a bit more of a local flavour and can be difficult to find if you don’t know what you’re looking for! Keep an eye out for small arcade of vintage bric-a-brac stores, a lift and an unmarked staircase. With a spectacular view of the Acropolis, approachable cocktails and a killer music playlist, it’s no wonder that finding a seat at Coleur Locale has become more challenging than it was back in 2014. However, if you can find the place, it’s worth heading up to this fun rooftop for a cocktail with a view.
Coleur Locale - Normanou 3, Athens (Open from 10am)
Point a
A short stroll from the Acropolis metro station, Point a offers a refined dining experience with a view. However, as they put it themselves, Point a is more than just a restaurant. Located on the fifth floor of the Herodion Hotel, this rooftop has succeeded in creating an elegant and sophisticated experience. They take their menu seriously, with an impressive dining menu that offers a twist on Greek cuisine classics. The wine and cocktail lists offer something for every taste. What’s most striking about the Point a rooftop though, is the staggering view of the Acropolis Museum. With uninterrupted views of the museum floor lit up at night, you’ll feel like you have your own private museum tour. Cheers to that!
Point a - Rovertou Galli 4a, Athens (Open from 18.00 May to October)
Bios
Bios is one of those all-time classic favourites among the hip set in Athens. It’s stood the test of time as a cultural centre which works as a bar, theater and gig space at the same time. During the warmer months, Bios rooftop is a no-brainer for enjoying a beer with friends, as the Athenian sun slowly sets. Plus, you have the added bonus of checking out local exhibitions and even an alternative theatre performance while you’re at it.
Bios - Pireos 84, Athens (Rooftop open from May-September)
Zillers Roof Garden
The Zillers Boutique Hotel is a neoclassical beauty, overlooking the Athens cathedral, just a stone’s throw from historic Plaka. Even if you’re not a hotel guest, you can enjoy a taste of the Zillers experience at their trendy rooftop garden. From the top of this classic beauty, the Parthenon feels almost within reach and the wine list will keep you busy for hours.
Zillers Roof Garden - Mitropoleos 54, Athens (Open from Midday)
Anglais
Day or night, Anglais is a vibrant rooftop in the heart of Monastiraki, which we all know can be a sensory overload at times! From the tropical oasis of the Anglais rooftop, you can perch yourself at the bar or one of the high tables, and take in sweeping views of the Acropolis and bustling Monastiraki down below.
Anglais Athens - Kirikiou 6, Athens (Open from 11AM)
