In Athens, a city known for its ancient ruins and vibrant culture, coffee has become an essential part of daily life. From traditional Greek coffee to the modern-day Freddo espresso, coffee in Athens is more than just a drink—it’s a lifestyle.
I am a huge coffee lover, but coffee in Greece is a whole new level. Their iced coffees are strong, so do not get too excited, or you will have trouble sleeping, lol. Watch My Greek Wedding 3, and you will see what I mean.
Having visited Athens twice, I’ve discovered that exploring the city’s coffee culture reveals much about its people and history. Whether you’re after a meticulously brewed espresso or an iced coffee to beat the heat, this guide will walk you through some of the incredible places for the best coffee in Athens, Greece.
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Table of Contents
History of Coffee in Athens
Athens’ relationship with coffee stretches back centuries. Coffeehouses—known as kafeneia—were central to social life during the Ottoman Empire. Greek coffee, brewed in a briki and served unfiltered, became an important daily ritual. Even today, the significance of coffee in Athens goes beyond its flavor—it’s about the moments spent catching up with friends, pausing during a busy day, and embracing tradition.
Athens has embraced the global third-wave coffee movement in recent years while maintaining its deep coffee traditions. Cafés in Athens today offer a blend of modern and traditional brewing techniques, using high-quality beans and innovative methods to craft every cup.
Specialty Coffee Shops in Athens
Athens is now home to numerous specialty coffee spots that have become a favorite of locals and visitors alike. These cafés are often pioneers in the city’s evolving coffee culture.
Taf Coffee
Taf Coffee, one of the trailblazers of Athens’ third-wave coffee scene, stands out for its precision in brewing and its strong community ties. Located near Omonia Square, Taf serves as both a tasting room and retail store, offering fresh coffee beans to those who want to brew at home.
The baristas’ passion and attention to detail ensure that each espresso, cappuccino, or single-origin pour-over is a perfect experience. Taf Coffee is ideal for coffee aficionados looking to immerse themselves in the world of specialty coffee.
Mr. Bean
Across from Taf is Mr. Bean, a cozy café with an inviting, laid-back atmosphere. Known for roasting their own beans, Mr. Bean crafts coffee with a focus on freshness and quality. Their selection of pastries and warm ambiance makes it a great place to unwind or meet friends for a casual coffee break.
Coffee Dive
At Coffee Dive, passion and excellence combine to offer high-quality coffee for those seeking both a great experience and a quick stop. With a wide range of blends and brewing methods—such as Aeropress and pour-overs—Coffee Dive caters to customers who appreciate carefully crafted beverages. This spot is perfect for coffee lovers who want a memorable and flavorful cup.
Kaya Spirit
Located near Syntagma Square, Kaya Spirit is a small espresso bar where the brewing process is part of the experience. The open design allows customers to watch their coffee being prepared, giving the café a unique atmosphere. Kaya Spirit is known for its limited-edition coffees and house blends, offering something new with every visit.
Third Place
In the Syntagma neighborhood, Third Place provides a minimalist, Scandinavian-inspired setting that feels like a retreat from the bustle of city life. It’s designed to be a welcoming “third space” between home and work, where you can enjoy freshly brewed coffee while getting some work done. The light, airy atmosphere, coupled with exceptional espresso drinks and slow-roasted beans, makes Third Place a must-visit.
Unique Athens Coffee Experiences
Beyond the excellent cafés, Athens offers some unique coffee experiences that reflect the city’s rich cultural heritage.
Traditional Greek Coffee at Mokka
For an authentic taste of Athenian coffee tradition, visit Mokka on Athinas Street. Here, traditional Greek coffee is prepared in the old-world style—brewed over hot sand in a small briki pot. The rich, thick coffee pairs beautifully with a piece of loukoumi (Greek delight) and encourages patrons to sit back, relax, and enjoy the moment. This experience captures the essence of Athens’ long-standing coffee culture, where coffee is meant to be savored slowly.
Freddo Espresso Craze
The freddo espresso has become a staple of modern Athens’ coffee culture, especially during the hot summer months. This iced espresso drink, shaken until frothy, is both refreshing and intense, making it the perfect solution for the city’s sweltering heat. As I observed during my trips, freddo espresso is enjoyed at all hours—even during happy hour, showing that in Athens, coffee knows no time boundaries.
Coffee Cocktails at The Clumsies
While not a traditional café, The Clumsies is a cocktail bar that excels at blending coffee with mixology. Their standout cocktail, the “But First, Coffee,” is a delightful mix of espresso and alcohol that offers a unique coffee-based drinking experience. For coffee lovers looking to try something a little more daring, this cocktail bar is a must-visit.
Best Local Coffee Roasters in Athens
Athens is also home to several local coffee roasters who have helped elevate the city’s coffee scene with their dedication to quality and sustainability.
Taf
Taf is not just a café—it’s one of the most well-respected coffee roasters in the city. Known for sourcing beans directly from farmers, Taf’s commitment to sustainability and flavor shines through in each cup. Whether you enjoy your coffee in their café or take home a bag of beans, Taf promises a memorable experience.
Dope Roasting Co.
Located in the heart of Athens, Dope Roasting Co. is beloved for its variety of single-origin beans and bright, fruity roasts. Dope is also a haven for digital nomads, thanks to its spacious layout and inviting environment.
Samba Coffee Roasters
Samba Coffee Roasters has mastered the balance between tradition and modernity. Their roasting techniques produce a range of bold and flavorful coffees, making them a popular choice for those who want to explore different coffee profiles. Each small batch is roasted with care, ensuring consistency and flavor.
Best Coffee on the Go in Athens
n a city as vibrant as Athens, sometimes you need a quick coffee fix without sacrificing quality. Fortunately, these spots offer fast yet excellent coffee to-go.
Coffee Dive (Misaraliotou 21)
If you’re in a hurry but still want a great coffee, Coffee Dive is the place to go. With a variety of blends and quick service, it’s a convenient spot for those rushing through the city.
Carpo (Kanari 6)
A perfect blend of deli and coffee bar, Carpo offers freshly brewed coffee made from premium beans. It’s ideal for those needing a quick, high-quality coffee before heading out for a day of sightseeing.
Fuel Coffee Lab (Kolokotroni 82, Piraeus)
Known for its fast-paced atmosphere and freshly ground beans, Fuel Coffee Lab is a local favorite for a quick yet expertly brewed coffee, making it perfect for busy days.
Best Coffee Shops for Digital Nomads in Athens
As a city growing in popularity among digital nomads, Athens has several cafés that offer the ideal mix of coffee, ambiance, and reliable Wi-Fi for those working remotely.
Dope Roasting Co.
With spacious indoor and outdoor seating, Dope Roasting Co. is a favorite for remote workers. The strong Wi-Fi and relaxed atmosphere, paired with excellent coffee, make it the perfect place to spend the day.
Third Place
If you prefer a calm environment, Third Place offers a distraction-free zone with minimalist decor. Students and freelancers alike frequent this café for its cozy, productive atmosphere.
Coffee Shops with Live Music
Some Athens coffee shops offer more than just a great cup of coffee—they provide a cultural experience through live music and events.
Six D.O.G.S.
One of the most popular spots in Athens, Six D.O.G.S. combines coffee, cocktails, and live music into one eclectic venue. It’s a perfect space for creatives and anyone looking to enjoy a dynamic atmosphere while sipping on a cappuccino or cocktail.
KoukArt
Located in the Koukaki neighborhood, KoukArt is where coffee meets art. The intimate café often hosts live performances, offering patrons the chance to enjoy good coffee and local music.
Best Coffee Athens Greece with Views
There’s something special about sipping a coffee while taking in the breathtaking views of Athens’ landmarks. Whether you’re admiring the Acropolis or the bustling city streets, these cafés offer some of the best vistas the city has to offer.
Also check out Greece in October and Driving in Greece.
Cafe Lycabettus
Perched atop Mount Lycabettus, this café offers one of the most spectacular panoramic views in Athens. From the terrace, you can gaze at the Acropolis, the Aegean Sea, and the sprawling city below. This serene setting makes it the perfect place to enjoy your coffee, whether it’s a freddo espresso or a traditional Greek coffee. The peaceful atmosphere combined with the sweeping views makes Café Lycabettus a must-visit for anyone looking to enjoy Athens from above.
A for Athens
Located on the rooftop of a hotel in Monastiraki Square, A for Athens is a favorite among locals and tourists alike for its unbeatable views of the Acropolis. Whether you visit during the day for a coffee or in the evening for cocktails, the terrace provides a stunning backdrop of the ancient citadel. It’s especially magical at sunset when the Acropolis is bathed in golden light. For those wanting a memorable coffee experience, this spot is hard to beat.
360 Cocktail Bar
Right next to A for Athens in Monastiraki is 360 Cocktail Bar, which offers equally impressive views of the Acropolis and the city below. The name hints at the 360-degree views from the rooftop, where you can enjoy your coffee or an iced drink with a full panorama of Athens. This spot has a lively vibe, making it great for both daytime coffee and evening cocktails. The floor-to-ceiling windows ensure that you’ll enjoy a great view no matter where you’re seated.
Public Café
Situated on the rooftop of a bookstore in Syntagma Square, Public Café combines modern aesthetics with sweeping views of the Greek Parliament and the square below. It’s an ideal spot for a coffee break after exploring the city’s historic center, and it offers a slightly more relaxed and less crowded atmosphere compared to the Monastiraki cafés. You can enjoy a variety of coffee drinks while soaking in the sights of Athens.
New Hotel Rooftop
Close to Syntagma Square, the New Hotel Rooftop provides a chic and contemporary environment with excellent views of the Athens skyline. The rooftop bar offers a quiet space to sip on a cappuccino or iced latte while gazing at the Acropolis and surrounding neighborhoods. The design of the rooftop itself is stylish and modern, making it a great place to unwind in the heart of the city.
Couleur Locale
Tucked away in a hidden alley in Monastiraki, Couleur Locale is a rooftop café that provides fantastic views of the Acropolis without the heavy tourist crowds. It has a more local feel, making it a favorite among Athenians who want to enjoy the view with a little more privacy. The laid-back vibe and creative coffee menu make it a great place to relax during the day or meet up with friends in the evening.
MS Roof Garden
Located above the Museum of Islamic Art in the Keramikos district, MS Roof Garden offers unobstructed views of the Acropolis in a quieter, more off-the-beaten-path setting. The rooftop terrace is adorned with colorful murals and is a bit of a hidden gem, offering a unique combination of art, culture, and coffee. It’s perfect for those wanting to escape the crowds while still enjoying one of Athens’ best vistas.
Anglais Athens
In the bustling Psirri neighborhood, Anglais Athens stands out with its cozy rooftop seating and incredible views of the Acropolis. The ambiance is casual yet stylish, with plenty of greenery to give it a relaxed, garden-like feel. The panoramic view of Athens is complemented by a creative coffee menu that includes everything from classic espressos to specialty drinks. It’s a great place to wind down after a day of exploring.
Best Coffee Shops with Outdoor Seating in Athens
Athens is known for its sunny weather, and there’s no better way to enjoy the city’s warmth than by relaxing at one of its many cafés with outdoor seating. Whether you’re looking for a peaceful garden setting or a lively street view, these coffee spots offer the perfect ambiance for sipping your brew al fresco.
Plegma Coffee & Living
Located in the vibrant neighborhood of Pangrati, Plegma Coffee & Living is a hidden gem with comfortable outdoor seating under large umbrellas. The boutique café offers a cozy atmosphere, making it ideal for both casual coffee breaks and working remotely. Plegma is known for its welcoming staff, delicious brews, and outdoor space that allows you to enjoy the city’s energetic vibe without being overwhelmed by crowds.
The Blind Spot
Also situated in Pangrati, The Blind Spot is a modern café with a trendy vibe. Its floor-to-ceiling windows open to a spacious outdoor seating area, perfect for people-watching while sipping on an expertly crafted coffee. The relaxed atmosphere makes it a favorite among locals, and the outdoor space is great for enjoying the mild Athenian weather, especially in the spring and fall.
Tailor Made
Nestled in the buzzing neighborhood of Agias Irinis Square, Tailor Made is a well-loved spot among locals for its specialty coffee and relaxed outdoor seating. The café has a wide terrace that spills into the square, offering plenty of seating options. It’s perfect for those who want to sip their cappuccino while enjoying the lively street activity. The coffee here is consistently top-notch, and the square itself provides an eclectic and dynamic backdrop.
Little Kook
For a whimsical and colorful coffee experience, Little Kook in Psirri offers a fun outdoor setting. The café’s outdoor seating is decorated to match its constantly changing fairytale themes, with colorful decor that adds a magical touch to your coffee experience. While the seating may feel a bit touristy, the unique setting makes it an unforgettable spot for a break, especially if you’re traveling with kids or simply want something different.
Cafe Plaka
Located in the heart of the picturesque Plaka neighborhood, which is my favorite neighborhood in Athens, Cafe Plaka offers a beautiful outdoor terrace with views of the charming narrow streets and nearby historical buildings. The bright pink exterior of the café and the laid-back atmosphere make it an excellent spot for enjoying a quiet cup of coffee or grabbing lunch after visiting the nearby Acropolis. It’s the perfect escape from the more crowded areas while still being in the center of it all.
Kyrios
In the Koukaki neighborhood, Kyrios boasts a large, inviting terrace that’s ideal for enjoying a freddo espresso or traditional Greek coffee. The outdoor seating is surrounded by lush greenery, giving it a relaxed, garden-like feel. Kyrios is a great spot for those who want to spend a leisurely afternoon, watching the world go by or catching up with friends in one of Athens’ most vibrant districts.
To Lokali
Also located in Psirri, To Lokali offers a spacious outdoor courtyard that feels like a hidden oasis in the middle of the bustling city. The leafy surroundings and laid-back vibe make it an excellent place for a relaxing coffee or brunch. With plenty of seating and a warm, welcoming atmosphere, it’s a great spot to take a break from sightseeing or enjoy a slow morning with a delicious cup of coffee.
Kudu Coffee Shop
For those looking for a more contemporary café, Kudu Coffee Shop in Kolonaki is an excellent choice. The café offers a cozy outdoor seating area where patrons can sip their coffee in one of Athens’ chicest neighborhoods. The outdoor space is smaller than some of the other spots on this list, but its peaceful atmosphere and great coffee make it well worth a visit. Plus, it’s perfect for a people-watching session in one of Athens’ trendiest areas.
Conclusion
Athens is a city where coffee culture thrives, offering a rich blend of tradition and innovation in every cup. From the historic streets where locals sip on traditional Greek coffee to the trendy neighborhoods filled with third-wave cafés serving single-origin espressos, there is no shortage of spots to explore.
Whether you’re indulging in a freddo espresso to beat the summer heat or taking your time with a brew at one of the city’s scenic rooftop cafés, Athens offers a coffee experience like no other.
For travelers, digital nomads, and locals alike, exploring the coffee scene here is a journey that reflects the city’s energy, diversity, and charm. So the next time you’re wandering the streets of Athens, take a break, grab a cup of coffee, and experience this city’s unique blend of the past and the present—one sip at a time.
