Athens’ vibrant energy and nightlife rise in sync with the temperature each summer, with a jam-packed cultural calendar and a host of events in atmospheric outdoor venues. Base yourself in Psyrri, one of Athens’ buzziest neighbourhoods, for exploring the city’s thriving arts scene, cooling down with ocean dips in the nearby Athenian Riviera, and sunset cocktails against the Acropolis.

In summer, Athens bursts into life as the city’s outdoor venues transform into stages for a rich calendar of cultural events under the open sky. These events include the Epidaurus Festival set in the Ancient Theatre of Epidaurus (May-August), the Open Air Film Festival(June to August), and contemporary RELEASE music festival (July) featuring London Grammar and Fontaines D.C and set at the Platia Nerou—which literally translates as “water plaza” for its location right on the sea.

Visitors can explore a wealth of beautiful beaches and swimming spots along the Athens coastline, just over 30 minutes’ away, including Voula Beach with shallow waters and calm seas, and Vouliagmeni Beach, known for its standout private beaches. For those looking to explore further across the ocean, try day trips to the neighboring Aeolian islands such as Hydra, Poros and Aegina.

Tucked away in the energetic Psyrri neighborhood, Monument Hotel Athens is an intimate retreat with nine uniquely designed bedrooms, curated to evoke the feel of a private residence for those in the know. Each room features intricate ceiling murals, limewashed walls, bespoke architectural elements, handcrafted beds, and furnishings from Scandinavian designers such as Gubi and Woud.

Guests can unwind as large doors open onto a sweeping private terrace, complete with a jacuzzi and uninterrupted views of the Acropolis and the historic Agios Dimitrios Church. On Monument’s lower ground floor, guests can find a private wellness centre, offering bespoke face and body treatments using locally sourced almond oil infused with Greek natural essential oils. Additionally, guests can book the spa’s sauna and hammam for private use.

Monument’s location provides a gateway to the tavernas, restaurants and bars that line the winding streets of Athens. Situated just around the corner from the hotel, Cinque Wine Bar offers a more relaxed atmosphere, with a range of local and international red and white wines. For a light lunch after a morning spent exploring, Zampano, also in the Psyrri district, attracts a mix of locals, actors rehearsing and performing at theaters nearby, and tourists alike. The food is Greek with a twist, serving dishes including grilled courgettes with goat’s cheese and almonds, summer linguini with locally grown vegetables, traditional Moussaka and an array of fresh seafood.

On the coast, the glamorous suburb of Glyfada on the Athens Riviera is filled with authentic souvlaki joints, farmers markets, and chic bars sheltered from the sun under rows of parasols, perfect for a refreshing cocktail after a day by the water. On Thursday nights, Amigos, a lively Mexican bar and restaurant in the area, transforms into a full-blown salsa party from 10 pm onwards.