Destination Athens. Stylist’s Apostolis Gofas Guide To His Favourite Spots in the Capital and On The Islands
Greece is one of the most coveted European summer destinations. Whether you’re heading to the islands or spending the whole vacation in Athens and on its coast, here are the travel tips of one of the most fashionable locals. Based in Athens and a pro in spotting the best beaches around, Apostolis Gofas is a fashion stylist who worked with Sergio Rossi, Bvlgari, Maison Margiela, Ancient Greek Sandals and many more. He shared with LESSLESS his addresses for a perfect trip.
Your favorite neighborhood in Athens and why you love it?
Palaio Faliro. It’s an urban resort with a hint of the Orient about it. This waterfront suburb will be a scenic escape from the city center. With its palm-lined promenade, playgrounds, an outdoor cinema and a luxe marina it has a pleasant resort vibe all year round. It’s a great combination for all kinds of tastes.
Give us some tips on what to visit when in Athens only for 24 hours?
Acropolis should be the first stop on one day itinerary. It’s a life experience of the greatest monument of Greece.
Then head to the white marbled Panathenaic Stadium built in VI century BC, where Dior has recently staged their 2022 Cruise show.
Take a walk back to Plaka for lunch, crossing the National Gardens that are stunning. Book at Samano Radio restaurant which can be described as a “refined urban gastronomy”. Make sure to order fresh fish, octopus, Greek salad and fava.
Visit the Library of Hadrian, the Roman Agora and the Ancient Agora.
Book a table for dinner at the incredible panoramic Art Lounge in The New Hotel close to Syntagma Square.
Name some design spots and locations for fashion campaigns?
Our first option are buildings designed by the best Greek architects with a 70’s aesthetics basically from all around the city. This picture is from Vouliagmeni Lake. It is a really relaxing place to visit during a hot summer day.
Which museums are a must-visit in Athens?
The Acropolis Museum is a curated trove of stunning sculptures, ceramics, and other treasures from the Acropolis. It’s consistently rated as one of the best museums in the world. The National Art Gallery of Athens is the most important museum for the history of art in Greece. Founded in 1900, it's the treasury of Modern Greek artistic creation, covering a period from the post-Byzantine period until today.
Your fashion shopping addresses not to miss?
The central neighbourhood of Kolonaki is one of the oldest districts in Athens and a must visit if you love shopping for small local brands.
Soho-Soho is an independent and avant-garde boutique and has a wonderful selection of clothes, jewelry and accessories from some of the best international luxury brands.
Lito's jewelry atelier is in the heart of Athens, Her imaginative collections are inspired by global travels and feature unexpected combinations of precious stones, corals and shells
The Monastiraki Flea Market is arguably one of the best places for second-hand shopping in Athens and the place where you can find the top Greek souvenirs to take back home.
The most vibrant place for cocktails?
One of the planet’s premier rum destinations, Baba au Rum is also quoted as one of Europe’s best drinking spots.
Poco a Poco is a great bar for casual drinks and spritzes.
No night out at the seaside is complete without a sunset cocktail by the sea at Island Athens riviera.
#Sustainable travel tips for visiting Athens?
Walking is the best way to explore the city and move around Athens.
Bicycles are another healthy option inside the city, and many private and government services let you rent out a bike easily.
Stavros Niarchos Foundation cultural center is a leading example of environmental sustainability at three levels: design & construction, operation, footprint in the local ecosystem.
Your favorite hotels, beaches and island getaways?
In central Athens, Perianth Hotel celebrates contemporary Greek culture in the heart of the city. Four Seasons Astir Palace offers the best of both worlds: a laid-back seaside escape, just 30 minutes from the historical center.
All around the coast of Attica are dozens upon dozens of lovely beaches.
Astir is the ultimate luxury beach experience. Beach of Sounio is an organized beach with umbrellas and all kinds of amenities, what really sets this swimming spot apart is its fantastic view of the Temple of Poseidon. Schinias is an impressive long sandy beach located at the edge of a protected wetland and dense pine forest only 3 km from the tomb of Marathon.
Hydra is the perfect island for a weekend getaway from Athens. It is one of the most picturesque islands I got to visit here in Greece. It’s exactly the way you imagine a Greek island.
Your off-the-bedroom tips on styling loungewear for the city?
Loungewear is easy-to-wear and easy-to-style, so it’s perfect both for going out and staying in. I usually go for head-to-toe black or all-out prints. I love simple cuts and silhouettes to challenge a robe or pajamas on the streets.
