Tina Walsh
- Jun 30, 2022
- 4 min read

7 of the Best Cocktail Bars in Athens, Greece

Updated: Jul 23, 2023

Athens, Greece is know for its vibrant nightlife. There is nothing better than sipping on an artfully prepared cocktail, visiting with fellow travelers especially when you are in or near the Plaka in Athens, Greece. The Plaka is a village like neighborhood just below the Acropolis in Athens. There are coffee bars, shops, restaurants and some outstanding cocktail bars. Some have a Boho feel, some are very sleek and contemporary and lots are on rooftops.

How Late Do Cocktail Bars Stay Open?

Many are over the top, like this "Alice in Wonderland" themed sweet shop and cafe in the video above. All are great fun and a pleasant way to spend and afternoon or evening. Most Bars are open until 2 or 3 am. Keep in mind that in Greece the bars do not close if there are still people in them. They just wait till people leave for themselves.

If you are a solo traveler or would enjoy a nighttime Cocktail Tour, I would recommend the tour below which includes a visit to Bretto's, the oldest bar in Athens Greece:

Athens Night Tour with Cocktails and Souvlaki

The Rooftop Bar at the Grand Bretagne

The Rooftop Bar at the Grand Bretagne is my favorite Rooftop Bar in Athens. I have to admit, I love a high-end cocktail bar with a creative list of offerings, all made with top shelf alcohol. The added bonus with the Rooftop Bar at the Grand Bretagne is the view. You can see the Acropolis, the changing of the guard at the Parliament House and Syntagma Square all while sipping a deliciously crafted cocktail.

Alexander's Bar at the Grand Bretagne

Also in the Grand Bretagne Hotel is Alexander's Bar, just off the lobby. If your tastes run towards the dark, wood paneled, clubby type establishments with a wide selection whiskeys and cognacs, this is the place for you. Alexander's Bar is named for the 15th century tapestry of Alexander the Great that hangs behind the bar. It adds to the moody vibe of the bar. Forbes Magazine has often included Alexander's Bar on their best Hotel Bar List.

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Above Rooftop Bar at the Wyndham Grand

Many hotels have rooftop bars and pools. They are a delightful place to cool off and enjoy the views. On a recent stay at the Wyndham Grand, we enjoyed their rooftop bar. As you can see from the picture, you have a western view of the Acropolis. There was a nice selection of European, especially Greek, wines and beers. The bartenders were happy to whip up any traditional cocktail you fancy.

The Oldest Bar in Athens - Bretto's

Founded in 1909, Bretto's is the oldest bar/distillery in Athens. They make their own Brandy as well as traditional Greek liquors, Ouzo, Tsipouro, Maticha and my favorite Honey & Cinnamon Rakamelo. They have a large selection of Greek beers and wine. All of which can be enjoyed at a huge bar with one of the most colorful backbars I have ever seen. They are open from 10:00am to 2:00am. Whether you are looking for an eye opener, a sundowner or a nightcap, this is a great place to imbibe.

Gypsy Jungle

Looking for a Boho Chic place with both indoor and outdoor seating in the Plaka, stop by Gypsy Jungle. They have a creative cocktail menu, as well as a nice selection of Greek beers and wines. I tried one of their Spicy Margaritas and it was delicious. The people watching on a summer afternoon is outstanding from their outdoor seating.

MS Rooftop Bar

I have been to MS Rooftop Bar twice, once in the late afternoon and once after dark. Day or night, the view of the Acropolis and Monastraki Square never disappoints. They have an extensive and creative cocktail list as well as wine and beer. This rooftop offers some of the closest views of the Acropolis' eastern side.

The Clumsies

The Clummsies is a true gem. You can get your morning coffee and breakfast, a beautiful prepared afternoon cocktail or a late night Ouzo or Cognac at this friendly and inviting place. While they have made "The World's Best Bar List" numerous times, most recently ranking #4, they are not snotty or pretentious. I tend to be a day drinker when traveling, a cocktail at their large wooden bar or beautifully decorated patio is an excellent way to spend an afternoon!

Places on My List for Next Visit

Athens has many outstanding places to sip a cocktail. CaptK and I have not been able to try them all. On my list for a return trip to Athens is Baba au rum Bar and Rum Distillery, and A is for Athens Rooftop Cocktail Bar. Do you have a favorite Cocktail Bar in Athens? Leave it in the comments below so we can all stop by and experience it.