Arty Athens Guide

Description:

Picasso said, "It took me four years to paint like Raphael and a lifetime to paint like a child." Two museums in the world were among the first in recognizing the value of children's art to the extent of making it the focus of their collection, and one of those is in Athens, Greece. The aim of the museum is to preserve, study, and promote children's art as well as encouraging development in the young artists and art educators.

Children will enjoy seeing work of other children their own age. There are also activity workshops most months of the year held every Sunday from 10am to 11:30. While most classes are in Greek, bilingual instructors can assist English speaking children.

Description:

Take a look at what comes from Greece outside of Athens at the Museum of Greek Folk Art in Plaka. The museum's collection includes items from the 1700s to present day. On display are folk paintings, pottery, costumes worn for religious and wedding ceremonies, weavings and masks to name a few. A lot of what is on display was used in homes every day, while the more formal items were used when families entertained. The museum has a library with 5000 volumes of folklore and ethnology in addition to photo, film and sound archives. Other points of interest are the Museum of Greek Children's Art, Temple of Olympian Zeus, Vlassis Frissiras Museum of Contemporary European Art. The closest metro station is Syntagma.

Our Local Expert Says:

The combination of the museum's niche subject and one of the most important neoclassical buildings in Plaka makes it one of the best art museums in Athens.

Description:

Among the newest museums of Athens is the modern art collection of Vlassis Frissiras. This private museum occupies two beautifully renovated neo-classical mansions in the heart of Plaka, the old town of Athens. Among the 3,000 paintings and sculptures of the collection are works by some of the most renowned Greek artists such as Tsoklis, Moralis, Tetsis, Kessanlis and Psychopedis. European artists represented at the museum include Paladino, Blake and Adami among others. A café is at the disposal of the visitors.

Description:

Housed in a sock factory built in the 1930's and drawing many of its events from one of the world's most prominent art collectors, Dakis Joannou, the DESTE foundation makes a weighty case for being one of the best places to see contemporary art in Athens. The foundation was based in 1983 in Geneva, Switzerland, by Mr. Joannou along with Adelina von Fürstenberg and Efi Strousa. Since 2006, the foundation has been using the space of the former sock factory to show the work of prominent as well as emerging talent in art and fashion, music, film, architecture, design, and contemporary culture.

The neighborhood of Nea Ioania is a bit out of the way from the other things that are considered the usual sightseeing in the city, but taking the green line 1 on the Metro puts you almost immediately there (stop: Nea Ionia)
Alternatively, take bus 421 • Ag. Anargiroi - Ag. Paraskevi (bus stop: Agia Olga)
or 602 Nea Ionia - Kalograza - Stath. Panormou (bus stop: Athina 2004)
The exhibition space is open on Wednesdays from 12-8pm and Saturdays from 10-2pm

Our Local Expert Says:

Best view of the Parthenon! The second floor cafe is the perfect place to sit under a shady veranda and have a drink or light meal, all while gazing at one of the ancient world's greatest structures. The food highlights Greek products and the museum is proud of the low prices on the menu.

Description:

The New Acropolis Museum was conceived in 1979 in an overall effort to persuade the British Museum to return the famous marbles of the Parthenon. After changing decisions on locations and architects, on top of the discovery of an ancient settlement on the winning site, the museum was completed in June of 2009. It is considered one of the top ten museums of Europe and is unique in that all of its contents are specific to the site of the sacred rock of the Acropolis. How to deal with the ancient ruins underneath? Prop it up on columns and lay down a clear floor, giving visual access throughout the museum.

A must see.

Description:

Anyone who appreciates attention to detail, artistry and craftsmanship will enjoy a visit to one of the world's only jewelry museums where 4,000 creations of its founder, Ilias Lalounis, gleam brilliantly from display cases. You'll see all of the cultural and historical points of reference from which he drew inspiration, such as earrings inspired by an ivory plaque from Samaria, decorated with the motif of the sacred tree of life, or a pendant taken from the folds of a "chiton" an ancient Greek garments. The third level is given to temporary exhibitions by local artists and the first level has a protected courtyard for refreshments, rooms for special workshops (some directed specifically toward children) and a gift shop that sells fashion books, children's books, hats, t shirts, ceramics, silk scarves, and, hm... oh yes! World class jewelry.

Hours are 9-9 on Wednesday
Thr, Fri, Sat 8:30-4
Sunday 11-4
closed on Mondays

Acropolis Metro is a two minute walk. Located on Karyatidon and Kallisperi streets, just off of Dionysiou Areopagitou St.

Description:

This museum's collection has been ranked amongst the most significant in the world. It is housed in a complex of refurbished neoclassical buildings in the historic center of Athens near (Kerameikos), the collection includes objects from India, Persia, Asia Minor, Mesopotamia, the Middle East, Arabia, Egypt, North Africa, Sicily and Spain. Gift shop and snack bar-restaurant open during museum hours. Closed on holidays (call for details).

Description:

The Benaki Museum Pireos annex hosts temporary exhibitions within an impressive modern multi-story structure. There are also facilites for lectures and films and an open air courtyard for receptions. The gift shop showcases jewelry and hand-crafted objects of local artists and art books. Both the shop and snack bar-restaurant open during museum hours. Closed on holidays (call for details).

Our Local Expert Says:

A place for the Noir types to feel at home.

Description:

Named after the disgraced president, the WC of this bar/restaurant with a lounge cinema is affectionately known as Watergate. Nestled behind Bios Bar off Pireos Street, Nixon is the epitome of urban sophistication. Warmly-lit by antique chandeliers hanging from a high ceiling with booth tables comprising of ruby red leather seats and wooden tables set against muted green and bronze, the space exemplifies how interior layout can affect and reflect a bar atmosphere. Of course, the gastro-pub style food ranging from cuts of meat to succulent burgers and the good selection of wines, beers and spirits do not disappoint either. The bar opens at 8pm everyday and remains so till late.

Description:

Since its inception in 2000, National Museum of Contemporary Art has been involved with the presentation of various exhibitions in Athens. Most of these exhibits have been put up by local and upcoming artists as well as the international and renowned ones. The main motto of the museum is to lend a hand in the promotion of contemporary arts in Greek. Housed in the EMST building, the museum is a beautiful collection of such modern works and exhibits.

Description:

The restaurant's name, Alatsi, is used in Crete and means natural sea salt. Alatsi serves an eclectic array of Cretan specialities. Restaurant is small and cozy and conveniently located right behind the Athens Hilton. It serves lunch and dinner daily except Sundays. Lunch prices slightly reduced.

Description:

Founded in 1995, Kalfayan Gallery opened with a motive of providing a unique platform for all the Greek artists. Many contemporary ideas find a way of expression through the exhibits put up by local and international artists here. Having collaborated with various arts museums and film festival organizations, it plays host to various events and cultural fests throughout the year. Kalfayan Gallery simply makes for one of the best places to catch arts in different forms of media, apart from the antique pieces that are also on display.

Description:

A multi-purpose art space, Ileana Tounta Contemporary Art Center is a privately owned den of contemporary arts. The art center offers two large exhibit areas apart from a art book store and a restaurant, 48. Ileana hosts various solo and group exhibitions by artists from all over the world and also aids local artists find recognition for their works. Playing host to poem recitals, theatrical works, lectures and concerts, the center has a busy schedule of events throughout the year.

Description:

The Nicholas P. Goulandris Foundation private museum houses a remarkable collection of objects dating back to the 3rd millennium. Among this collection which features art from ancient Greece, the Cycladic culture and Cyprus, what will imprint in the visitor's mind are the white marble Cycladic figurines and vessels. Of interest is also a permanent exhibition "Scenes from daily life in antiquity". An additional highlight are the temporary exhibitions in the Stathatos Mansion (Vasilissis Sophias Ave and 1 Irodotou St.), accessible via an internal passage way between the buildings. Don't miss touring this beautiful building, an outstanding example of 19th century Neoclassical architecture. In addition there are activities for children and museum reproductions at the museum shop. Exit the museum and head up into Kolonaki for a coffee or lunch. The closets metro stop is Evangelismos. Other museums in the vicinity are the Benaki Museum, National Gallery-Alexandros Soutzos Museum, War Museum and Byzantine Museum. If you want to escape the concrete and asphalt spent some time in the National Gardens.

Description:

Behind a vine-covered gate, in a romantic white mansion, eight thousand years of Greek history come alive. Enjoy prehistoric works of art, rare manuscripts, Byzantine icons, historic weapons and paintings. The greatest attraction is the reconstructions of 18th and 19th century living. The museum also features a Childhood and Toy Department (with 15,000 historic games and children's items from around the world), a Chinese Art Department (with ceramics as old as 4,000 years) and a Coptic Art Department where displays include rare textiles from Egypt.

Along with the standing collection, temporary exhibitions that spotlight artwork and culture are rotated on the top level. The museum shop offers upscale treasures like hand-embroidered linens, painted porcelain, silver, and a hefty selection of premium books on Greek culture. A cafe and roof garden is located on the top level, providing an excellent place for a light snack, tea or coffee with a stunning view of the Acropolis.

The striking building was designed by Greek architect Anastasios Metaxas who was also responsible for the restoration of the Panathenaic Stadium one block away.The Benaki has two additional museums worth visiting:... read more

Description:

Cats and Marbles Gallery is one of the best places to find a treasure of artistic works from the present and past era. It presents a host of art pieces inclusive of sculptures, pottery and many other antiques, each with a history behind them. The art space carries a subtle disposition that successfully charms its visitors into rich exchange of creative thoughts. It organizes various temporary exhibitions which highlights the culture of the land through its art and craft.

Description:

The eighth outpost of international, art-vending giant, Gagosian Gallery, opened in Athens in September of 2009. The first exhibition was attended by Mr. Gagosian himself, along with the featured artist, Mr. Cy Twombly. When asked, "why Greece," the gallery's founder responded, Athens is "a step outside the obvious direction."

The original Galgosian Galleries in New York and LA have exhibited the likes of Francis Bacon, Jean-Michel Basquiat, Joseph Beuys, Willem de Kooning, Alberto Giacometti, Roy Lichtenstein, Pablo Picasso, David Smith and Andy Warhol.

Hours: Mon-Fri 11-6 & Sat by appointment

Description:

Excellent decorative items for either your own or a friend's home can be found here. Established in 1912, this gallery is one of the oldest in Greece. The branch at 7 Kriezotou Street features reproductions of contemporary art such as silk screens by renowned Greek artists, small sculptures, syrographies, multiple editions and posters. Also on sale are various other objects such as plates and vases. The branch at 26 Haritos Street offers a selection of art and antiques, while original works of contemporary art are displayed in the branch at 20 Kolonaki Square.

Our Local Expert Says:

The color pink predominates at this cool hotel. Stop in for a drink or come for a weekend breakfast buffet (until 11am). Good choice for those looking to escape the hustle and bustle of the city. Plenty of dining and shopping options in the area.

Description:

One of the three biggest Art collectors in Greece, Dakis Joannou, made a call to famed designer, Karim Rashid, and asked if he would like to go crazy designing the coolest pop art hotel in Athens. It is the first of the YES! hotels, part of the Design Hotels worldwide, and features some works from the private collection of Mr. Joannou including pieces by Jeff Koons and Tim Noble.

This hotel will appeal to a wide variety of visitors. It offers a workspace that claims it will "inspire" a business traveler, is near the snazzy shopping district of Kifissia, and is so colorful that it could put a candy store to shame. Even the pool is rainbow colored.

20-30 minutes from the Athens City Center and the airport.

Description:

Who would expect to find a museum hidden behind the Ygia Hospital near the Olympic Stadium of Maroussi? This rather unsuitable area is the site of a museum dedicated to 20th century design. The collection consists of furniture and lamps created by some of the greatest designers and artists of the 20th century, such as Salvador Dali, Le Corbusier, Mackintosh, Mies van der Rohe and Antoni Gaudi. The admission to the exhibition is free of charge.

Description:

A former royal estate nowadays houses a splendid collection of contemporary Greek art. This private collection, owned by the tycoon Prodromos Emfietzoglou, consists of 500 works of art including some of the greatest Greek paintings of the last two centuries. Among the more famous exhibits are works by Tsarouhis, Fasianos, Hatzikyriakos-Gikas and Engonopoulos. Of no lesser interest are the modern sculptures and art installations such as the 'Ark' by Kostas Tsoklis. The extensive gardens feature a selection of sculptures as well as the ruins of a former residence also housing works of art.

Description:

In the heart of Athens, a 9-storie glass building awakens the five senses that travelers rarely experience in a big city. Fashion House Hotel offers a variety of eye-catching material to its guests and an exclusive concept.Listing by hostelbookers.com

Description:

AMP Gallery is where you can enjoy an art galore imprinted on varied forms of media. Located close to the Plateia Koumoundourou, this gallery is the hub of arts with exhibitions being put up all round the year. These exhibitions may be solo or group put up by local artists or renowned ones. All the art lovers and connoisseurs are welcomed at this beautiful home to expressionistic art.

Description:

Organizing class exhibitions is one of the best things that A.Antonopoulou Art gallery has been doing since 1987. The gallery caters to upcoming and established artists alike, providing them with a defined space to showcases their talents. Each piece of art displayed here draws inspiration of the bold themes revolving around the minds of the artist. The expression of these ideas on paper are set example of dedication, skill and beauty which makes the exhibit worth a watch here.

Description:

A bookstore and a cafe shop, Café Ianos is the true hub of arts in Athens. Its features a huge collection of books, presenting all the popular genres, name it and they have it. The mezzanine level houses the cafe-restaurant, which sports as a perfect spot to relax and review your buy. However that's not all, the venue also hosts gigs and performances by local and upcoming artists. It is in more than one ways the meeting point of all things art. Definitely well suited for an art enthusiasts, Café Ianos is the place to be.

Description:

Indulge in a beautiful dialogue stemming from an artists creative expressions at the Fizz Gallery. The gallery provides an opportunity to gain new perspectives of the different things around us as seen from the eyes of the artist. Also the exhibit held here specialize in various contemporary Greek styles and find a means of expression in all forms of media. Vicky Anastasiou, Alexandros Tsamouris and Haris Pallas are some of the talented artists who's works are on display here. If you appreciate art, then Fizz is an encouraging encounter you must have.