The Location
Psyri is one of the hippest and most colorful neighborhoods in Athens and a traveler hotspot. But it wasn't always the case.
Location History
Since 1800, many small leather and tanning workshops, bakeries and family-owned industrial artisan shops settled here. Some of them still remain, to remind the visitor of its primarily industrial and commercial past. During the 1990s, the formerly working-class neighborhood started to get gentrified and became a hub for artists, artisans, antique shops, theaters and of course taverns and cafes. Psyri became a popular nightlife and residential area and it has now become a hotspot for tourists and locals alike. The streets of the area come alive around 6 p.m. when all the taverns, cafes, pastry shops and nightclubs transform the neighborhood into a buzzing hive. Psyri is now considered to be the Athenian Soho, combining the traditional entertainment with urban culture.
Just a breath away, Monastirki square, busts with music and lively crowds from all around the world. The Athens Flea Market in Ifestou street is an experience in itself whether you are interested in buying or not and it is only surpassed in glory and folklore by the adjacent Avissinias square, the antique open market. A little further down the street, Thissio neighborhood begins and you are greeted by happy vendors of handmade jewelry, beer houses and spectacular vistas of the Acropolis. If you are into shopping, the central mecca where all popular brands are located is Ermou street, literally only a 5-minute walk from Athens Hub Hostel.
Monuments
The historic area of Psyri is surounded by archaeoligical and modern points of interest. The Acropolis hill is monopolising the interest of everyone and is a short walk away. But there are more that the area has to offer. The Roman Agora is the entrance of Hadrian’s Library wows the visitors with its 100 columns and green surroundings. Fethiye Mosque is also located in the Ancient Agora. Right on Monastiraki square, Panagia Pantassa church dominates the scenery.
Tours & Activities
There are many ways to explore the city. Wether you love bikes and segways or wish for a private city tour we can help you arrange everything with the help of our trustworthy collaborators. The surroundings of Athens are endless and equally exciting to the city. If you wish to visit Delphi, Sounio or take a cruise to the Saronic islands just drop us a word and we will guide you based on distance and availability.
We keep adding new experiences to our portfolio so don't hesitate to contact the Athens Hub reception for more information!
Shopping
Psyri is an oasis of local shopping and unexpected treasures. Many merchants or small family companies have their workshops here and they offer best prices than retail. Soap and herbs coexist next to handmade jewelery artists and shoe makers. Further down the street you can buy unique musical instruments like baglama and bouzouki, vintage clothes, skate, antiques, second hand clothes, komboloi, vinyls and books. Just across Ermou street, the busy Athens Flea Market in Monastiraki square, reminding of a souk, is another way to make easy and cheap souvenir shopping. Ifestou street will lead you to Avissinia square, an open air antique bazzar. From old photos and cameras, to large furniture and paintings, everything that you can imagine you can find here. All around the square there are several restaurants and cafes that offer panoramic views of the buzzing square and of course the Acropolis.
Savouring & Nightlife
The neighborhood transforms when the sun goes down. Ouzo-taverns, cafes, pastry shops, nightclubs and bistros, light their lights and set their tables to cater to your needs. If you wish to savour some of Greece's glorious dishes and then dance the night away, in Psyrri you can! No matter what are your palet expectations, in Psyrri they wil be met. Traditional taverns offer mezedes(snacks), fresh fish and ouzo that make for the perfect Greek culinary experience. If you are in a more international mood, Italian restaurants, middle eastern eateries and gelaterias are open until after midnight. This is the place to experience the young and original spirit of Athenian nightlife away from touristy lookalikes.
