A for Athens

A for Athens is one of the best-known rooftop bars in the city, set on top of a small hotel overlooking Monastiraki Square. From its terrace, the view takes in the square, the old rooftops of the historic centre and, rising above them, the Acropolis, which is lit up after dark. The official city guide describes it as an award-winning rooftop bar with Acropolis views.

The cocktail list is built around the theme of emotion or logic, and the bar has also drawn on Greek history and myth for its menus, including one themed on the Odyssey. Alongside the cocktails are selected spirits from around the world, beers from small Greek breweries and non-alcoholic options. The bar team is run by manager Agapi Petropoulou.

Food is more than an afterthought. The restaurant, led by chef Konstantinos Giannakos, serves imaginative dishes using Greek ingredients, with Greek wines to match, from 16:00 until midnight. In the morning, a breakfast buffet of Greek products is served from 07:00 to 10:30, and there are brunch and dinner menus, so the rooftop is worth considering for a view over breakfast as well as for an evening drink.

The terrace is at its busiest around sunset, when the light over the Acropolis draws a crowd, and on summer weekends. Tables can be booked online, which is the best way to secure a spot with a view at popular times; otherwise, come early in the evening. It suits couples, groups of friends and anyone wanting the classic Athens rooftop experience. Prices reflect the location and the view.

A for Athens is directly above Monastiraki Square, about a minute's walk from Monastiraki metro station on Lines 1 and 3. The flea market, the Ancient Agora and the bars of Psirri are all on the doorstep, and Ermou Street leads east towards Syntagma. The hotel downstairs has rooms for anyone who wants to stay in the middle of the action, and they can be booked online through the same website. Brunch and dinner menus are published on the website, so you can see the dishes before you book, and the online booking system also handles hotel rooms.