If you're looking for an offbeat destination in Athens, Koukaki is the place to be. This charming neighborhood has a magic aura that will enchant you. While there are not any "world-famous" tourist attractions here, Koukaki is a must-visit neighborhood in Athens. Its elegant architecture, spirited nightlife, and beguiling aura of authenticity have done no less than astonish every single visitor.
Location of Koukaki in Athens
Koukaki is a prime- yet under the radar location for locals and travellers alike. The view from the hillside neighbourhood, with its beautiful temples in close proximity to one another makes it an ideal spot that will not disappoint any traveler looking forward to their next adventure.
It offers the ideal combination of being very close to all the monuments in the historical center of Athens, while at the same time retaining a traditional character, reminiscent of what Athens looked like years ago.
With its ideal location, this neighborhood offers guests the chance to be steps away from all of Athens' most famous landmarks. Yet it still retains that sense of old-fashioned charm you can't find anywhere else in Athens.
It's better known for its stunning popularity as an Airbnb destination than anything else, ranking among the five most interesting neighbourhoods in the world to stay. Continue the reading to understand why!
Koukaki and its history!
A wealthy business magnate named Georgios Koukakis established a factory on the site of what is now known as Koukaki in the late 1800s, and the beautiful area was named after him.
Aside from establishing his business in the area, Koukaki was one of the region's first settlers who would soon be followed by thousands. The company's specialty was the manufacture and installation of iron beds, which proved to be a highly lucrative industry.
People started moving around the factory and building traditional two-storey houses. These houses still stand on the central streets today, as cafes, cozy restaurants and cocktail bars!
Things to Do in Koukaki
The Koukaki area has been named one of the most beautiful cities in Greece and one of the world's most attractive areas in recent years by a number of prestigious publications. There's a reason for that, don't you think?
The changes Koukaki has undergone have made it one of Athens' most popular areas, combining all of the city's finest features.
Philopappou Hill, the Koukakis own remedy for You!
Philopappou Hill is a great destination when visiting Athens. The hill offers stunning views of the city and is home to several ancient monuments, including the Philopappos Monument. From Koukaki, you can find the way to walk up the hill and you will be compensated with stunning views of the city!
National Art Museum
Koukaki is also home to the National Museum of Contemporary Art (EMST). The structure that houses the museum has undergone a substantial transformation since it was formerly known as the Fix Brewery. The EMST is still under construction, but it will become a monument to creative genius that will exhibit the work of both Greek and foreign contemporary artists.
Jewellery Museum
For jewellery enthusiasts, the Ilias Lalaounis Jewelry Museum is a must-see. It pays homage to ancient goldsmithing skills at the Ilias Lalaounis Jewelry Museum, which houses over 4,000 pieces of Lalaounis' work.
Vivid Nightlife
The pedestrian zone from Koukaki Square to Georgiou Olympiou Street has a city-meets-jungle atmosphere, which makes it perhaps the neighborhood's most attractive feature. The trees, including palms, hang over the concrete facades of the buildings above the cafés and restaurants. Fairy lights and bright lanterns are in good use to create a sensation that is comparable to a Cuban Midsummer Night's Dream if that is the ambience you desire. Get ready for a fine drink and a cigar!
Eclectic Shopping
Koukaki has a lot of promise when it comes to shopping, although the goods on offer are more modest and sometimes even strange little boutique shops that specialize in trinkets and unusual patterns.
Koukaki: Athens Celebrating the World Cultures!
When you get to Koukaki, it will be impossible not to travel through time and space with this place. There are so many places that embody "old Greece" in their traditions, but then there's also the hidden gems of international flavours from all over the world waiting for someone like yourself to explore them!
