Dates by arrangement
Including visit of Athens Epidaurus Theatre Festival 2022 (June - September only)
Day 1: Welcome in Athens I Lycabettus I Art in Kolonaki
Meeting at Dexameni Square. Walk to the cable car station in Kolonaki that leads up to Lycabettus hill. While enjoying the grand view over the city, introduction to the history of Athens (pointing to the respective landmarks Acropolis, Philopappos, Pnyx, Pireas and Salamis) and bridging towards modern times (Greek Revolution, the modern city, the 20th century historical events, the ancient and the old Olympics, the recent financial crisis and the rebirth of the young art scene that led to the documenta14 exhibition).
Walking down Lycabettus Hill and visiting a contemporary show at the Benaki Museum and/or two or three selected gallery art shows in Kolonaki. Where possible an introduction by the artist / art dealer is arranged beforehand. Short lunch break in Kolonaki. After lunch continuation of the gallery tour. End at 7pm. After 9pm dinner at a restaurant famous for its Greek fusion cuisine.
Day 2: Changing of Guards I EMST I Areopag I Psyrri and Graffiti I Art Spaces
Changing of Guards ceremonies take place at the Presidential Mansion and at the Tomb of the Unknown Soldier, which is off Syntagma Square below the Hellenic Parliament. After a short metro ride visit of the Contemporary Art Museum EMST, which is housed in the former brewery FIX. The way back leads past the Areopag (Mars’ hill), from where Paul was preaching to the Athenians. After the lunch break walk through the neighbourhood of Psyrri which is famous for its murals and graffitis that were created mostly during the financial crisis. Depending on the time available visit of one or two art spaces. End approx. 6pm. Later in the evening visit of the Athens Epidaurus Festival (in Athens) or dinner.
Day 3: Art Spaces Metaxourgio and Exarchia
Visit and meetings with founders of art spaces in the Metaxourgio and Exarchia district. Both neighbourhoods have largely contributed to Athens’ fame of being a young art city. In Metaxourgio, named after a silk mill, young entrepreneurs and artists have settled in old factories and warehouses and have established a thriving art and restaurant scene. Exarchia, has always been a melting pot for bohemians, artists, anarchists and partisans. An exciting and sometimes turbulent area, far away from mass tourism. Recently Exarchia has been revived by young artists opening studios and non-commercial art spaces. Transfer between the areas by taxi. Lunch in the neighbourhood. End is approx. at 6-8pm (art spaces tend to be open from 5-8pm).
Options:
The tour can be adapted individually.