(The cover photo is Aura Rooftop Bar)
This is my personal list from when I went for a quick 2-day trip to Athens for work — the kind of trip where you need to hit only the right places, no time for mistakes! haha
I stayed at both The Hawks Hostel and YellowSquare Athens hostel when I have been there.
So here’s my go-to guide for where to eat, drink, and enjoy good energy while in Athens.
(And yes — the historical stuff like ruins, museums, and monuments will be in my next blogpost… when I go back with more time!)

🏙 Rooftop and Good Vibes

Aura Rooftop Bar – YellowSquare Athens

I was seriously impressed by the 180-degree view up there. You get the sunset over the mountains, the sea way off in the distance, and to the left — boom! The ACROPOLIS just glowing.
I got there around 8pm, found a comfy seat, ordered a drink, and just relaxed. I totally recommend getting a beer if you’re in the mood for something easy, but I had a revelation that night: the Athens Mule. It’s not too sweet, super refreshing, and just tasty.
Aperol Spritz is also a safe bet.
The bar is open to everyone even if it’s inside the hostel, which makes it even better ‘cause you get all the international crowd. I ended up meeting two American girls and a bunch of Italians, and we played mini Jenga from the games menu. I sucked at it, but it was a great way to meet people traveling solo.

What to order: Athens Mule or a beer + mezze plate with tzatziki, pita & hummus
How much: €12 for a drink (mezze included)
Instagram: @aurarooftopbar_athens
Website: YellowSquareAthens-Aura Rooftop Bar
Address: 13 Aristotelous Street – Google Maps

Couleur Locale

Another cool rooftop. What really stood out to me was how mixed the crowd was — locals, tourists, all ages. It felt really inclusive.
We ordered a bunch of food thinking it would be small bites… but the plates were huge!
I loved the hummus and pita. The salads were too heavy on seasoning for me, and the tacos just weren’t my thing. But overall, a good spot for chill rooftop vibes and a cool drink.
I Love that in Greece they bring you free water without even asking everywhere you go. Always a win.

What to order: Hummus & pita + white wine or a Moscow Mule
How much: €9–11 for drinks, €10–18 for food
Instagram: @couleurlocaleathens
Website: couleurlocaleathens.com
Address: 3 Normanou Street – Google Maps

Latraac Skate Café

This place was such a surprise. The street it’s on feels very Greek — local but trendy, a little hipster but still cozy and clean.
I was just walking by when I noticed the skate bowl, then realized it was a bar! You might think it’s only for young skater boys, but nope — I saw families, girls dressed up, chill groups of locals.
The vibe is super open, and definitely somewhere I want to spend more time next round.

What to order: Cold beer or homemade lemonade + grilled sandwich
How much: €3–6 for drinks, €5–9 for food
Instagram: @latraacskatecafe
Website: latraac.com
Address: 63-65 Leonidou Street – Google Maps

🍴 Restaurants for Lunch Time

Ta Karamanlidika Tou Fani

Ok, THIS was the discovery. I literally had lunch here every single day.
I usually like a lighter lunch so I can enjoy dinner with drinks later, and this spot hit the mark.
It’s super popular but if you go around 2pm, the line is gone and you can sit without the crowd.
Favorites? Greek salad, chicken with paprika, beef burger (my top pick), eggplant antipasto, and the stuffed ravioli.
And the best part? They give you a free dessert — Greek yogurt with apricot marmalade. I still think about it.

What to order: Beef burger, Greek salad, eggplant antipasto + free dessert
How much: €8–14 per plate

Instagram: @ta_karamanlidika_tou_fani

Website: karamanlidika.gr
Address: 1 Sokratous Street – Google Maps

Seychelles

This is a more modern Greek restaurant place, more local vibes, and a great dinner option.
It’s not super cheap, but definitely worth it.
The lamb was amazing and the octopus… unreal.
Even the bread is different. Crunchy edges, soft middle — simple but perfect.

What to order: Grilled octopus or lamb + local wine
How much: €10–16 for mains, €7–10 for starters
Instagram: @seychellesrestaurant
Website: seychellesathens.gr
Address: 49 Kerameikou Street – Google Maps

🥞 Slow Morning Brunch

Zampano

I’m that brunch person. Not in my normal life, but when I travel? Oh yes.
Zampano isn’t cheap, but the ambiance is really relaxed and welcoming.
I sat with my laptop, took it slow, and waited for my French toast and avocado Benedict eggs — both incredible.
Perfect slow-start to a busy Athens day.

What to order: Avocado eggs Benedict + French toast
How much: €8–12 for dishes, €3–4 for coffee
Instagram: @zampanoathens

Address: 1 Sarri Street – Google Maps

YellowSquare Athens (Ground Floor Cafeteria / Zero Bar)

If you’re on a budget, this is a solid spot. Big plates, relaxed vibe, and great for travelers.
They’ve got vegan options too. I had pancakes with Greek yogurt — really tasty — and a freddo caffè with almond milk, no sugar.
That moment, just sitting and people-watching, was the perfect way to ease into the day and you are super welcome to stay with the computer to work.
After in the night the place becomes a more party vibe around 9PM, totally worth to come back later after the city tour and meet other travellers. 

What to order: Vegan pancakes with Greek yogurt + freddo caffè
How much: €6–10 for food, €3–5 for drinks
Instagram: @yellowsquarehostel
Website: yellowsquare.com/athens
Address: 13 Aristotelous Street – Google Maps

So that’s it — my Athens in 2 Days foodie + vibes list.
It’s a mix of rooftops, local lunches, and slow-start brunches — perfect for a short stay when you want the right energy without wasting time.
And yes, the history tour will have to wait for my next trip… but I already know where I’ll be having breakfast.
Have a good one =)