Welcome to How I Holiday, a series of travel stories and recommendations shared by friends of Urban List from Aotearoa and Australia.
Heleena Trahanas is one half of Euro-inspired lifestyle project Alex and Trahanas—a label known for its chic ceramics in beachy hues and playful Mediterranean patterns. To celebrate the launch of their new range, Athina—an ode to Greece's rich past and vibrant present—Heleena takes us to Athens to share a collection of her favourite memories and spots.
Why is Athens special to you?
I have Greek heritage, and I feel a sense of place and home flying into Athens.
The spirit of Athens/Greece is so rich in culture (the start of western civilisation), I find it incredibly enriching and fascinating to think about all the history that infiltrates life there. It holds a special place in my heart; we recently shot our new ALEX AND TRAHANAS edition “Athina” there.
Where are the best spots to shop in Athens?
10AM Apotheke, It’s A Shirt, Phaon, HyperHypo, Adad Books, Mouki Mou, Zolotas Jewellery, Neso, Greek Visions, Swim to the Moon and the local shops in Psiri and Monastiraki in downtown Athens, where you can take your time exploring local food markets and Greek delicacies.
I also love stumbling upon random antique, kitchenware, furniture, rope and hardware stores.
Where do you find creative inspiration in Athens?
Everywhere. Athens is so rich in culture and antiquity. From life at the tavernas, the kafeneios, people passing by on the street, beach life along the Athens Riviera, museums, galleries, its golden light, and the grainy Athenian dust.
What's a core memory you have from Athens?
The Acropolis. It’s incredible to see that this divine, ancient beauty still overlooks the city like its guardian angel.
Where should people eat, drink, stay and play in Athens?
Eat: Linou Soumpasis and Sia, Taverna ton Filon, Diporto, Manari Mou, Akra, Wine is Fine, Pharaoh, Seychelles, Oikonomou.
Coffee: Foyer Espresso, Anana Coffee & Food.
For Greek yoghurt: Stani.
Drink: Kennedy Vins, Galaxy Bar, rooftop at Hotel Grande Bretagne.
Stay: 10AM Lofts.
Play: Catch the ferry from Piraeus and spend a day in Hydra or spend a night or more, drive to Sounion for a swim it’s a bit over an hour’s drive from the centre of Athens, stop along the Athens Riviera along the way for a swim too.
Check out the gallery and museum scene in Athens, some of my favourites include Benaki Museum, Alekos Fassianos, Alkinois, Breeder Gallery, Piraeus has great galleries too, Rodeo, Intermission and Carwan.
Take a look at what concerts are on at the Odeon of Herodes Atticus. AIR played there in June this year!
What's the best meal you've ever had in Athens?
All the food from Linou Soumpbasis and Sia, and for an authentic taverna experience, Diporto.
It’s hard to go past Greek yoghurt, topped with honey and walnuts.
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