Best Cocktails in Athens

Athens, Greece, is a city where ancient history meets modern vibrancy, and its cocktail culture reflects this unique blend. From rooftop bars overlooking the Acropolis to hidden speakeasies in the heart of the city, Athens offers a rich tapestry of flavors that elevate cocktail experiences. Here’s a list of the best cocktails to try when exploring the Greek capital.

1. Aegean Spritz – Refreshing with a Mediterranean Twist

The Aegean Spritz is a modern take on the classic spritz, infused with local herbs and flavors. Crafted with mastiha liqueur (a resin-based spirit from the island of Chios), fresh lemon juice, and sparkling wine, this cocktail captures the essence of the Greek summer. Its light and aromatic profile makes it perfect for sipping at sunset with a view of the Aegean Sea.

2. Athens Mule – The Greek Version of a Classic Favorite

A creative twist on the Moscow Mule, the Athens Mule incorporates ouzo, the iconic anise-flavored Greek spirit. Combined with ginger beer, fresh lime juice, and a touch of honey, this cocktail balances sweetness and spice. It’s a great choice for those looking to explore traditional Greek flavors in a modern format.

3. Santorini Sunset – Vibrant, Sweet, and Inspired by the Islands

Inspired by Greece’s breathtaking sunsets, this cocktail combines Santorini’s famed Assyrtiko wine with peach liqueur, orange juice, and grenadine. The vibrant colors mimic the evening sky, while its fruity and slightly tangy flavor transports you to the Cycladic islands.

4. Negroni Athenian Style – A Bold, Local Take on a Classic

Athens has embraced the Negroni with a local spin. Instead of Campari, many bartenders use vermouth infused with Greek herbs and spices, paired with gin and local bitters. This robust and aromatic cocktail is a must-try for fans of strong, bitter-sweet drinks.

5. Acropolis Martini – Elegant and Citrus-Forward

This sophisticated cocktail is a tribute to the city’s rich heritage. Made with premium Greek vodka, bergamot liqueur, and a hint of orange zest, the Acropolis Martini exudes elegance and refreshing citrus notes. It’s a favorite among those enjoying Athens’ luxurious rooftop bars.

6. Meltemi Breeze – Light and Perfect for Summer Nights

Named after the cool summer winds of the Aegean, the Meltemi Breeze is a delightful mix of tsipouro (a Greek grape-based spirit), cucumber, mint, and soda water. It’s a light and herbaceous drink that’s ideal for a hot summer evening in Athens.

7. Mediterranean Old Fashioned – Rich and Infused with Greek Spirit

This robust cocktail reinvents the classic Old Fashioned by substituting bourbon with aged Metaxa, a Greek amber spirit. Mixed with bitters and a touch of Greek honey, the Mediterranean Old Fashioned offers a smooth, warm, and slightly sweet flavor profile.

8. Fig & Thyme Smash – Earthy, Fruity, and Uniquely Greek

Inspired by the Mediterranean’s love for figs, this cocktail combines fresh figs, thyme, gin, lemon juice, and a touch of sugar. The result is a beautifully balanced drink that highlights earthy and fruity notes, perfect for adventurous cocktail enthusiasts.

9. Honey Basil Sour – Sweet, Sour, and Unmistakably Greek

A tribute to Greece’s abundant honey and aromatic basil, this cocktail is a refreshing blend of Greek brandy, fresh basil leaves, lemon juice, and local honey. The Honey Basil Sour strikes a harmonious balance between herbal and citrus flavors.

10. Olympian Sangria – Greek Wine Meets Sangria Sophistication

This Mediterranean twist on sangria features Greek red or rosé wine, fresh pomegranate seeds, orange slices, and a splash of Metaxa. The Olympian Sangria is a crowd-pleaser that beautifully showcases Greece’s exceptional wines and vibrant fruits.

Exploring Athens isn’t complete without indulging in its cocktail scene, where tradition and innovation come together in perfect harmony. Whether you’re drawn to the herbal essence of local spirits or the refreshing zest of Mediterranean ingredients, these cocktails promise an unforgettable taste of Greece. Enjoy them in stylish bars, by the sea, or under the starlit sky of this enchanting city. Cheers!