Athens is earning further recognition for its increasingly vibrant culinary scene, with Travel + Leisure naming the Greek capital one of the eight best food cities in Europe in a new feature based on recommendations from chefs and culinary experts. Published on August 16, the list highlights European destinations where traditional cuisine, local ingredients and contemporary gastronomy come together.
Alongside renowned culinary destinations including Florence, Copenhagen, Paris, Barcelona, Istanbul, Berlin and Stockholm, Athens stands out as a city where food is becoming an increasingly important part of the visitor experience.
For Travel + Leisure, Athens is still somewhat underestimated as a food destination. The publication quotes chef Patron Petros Dimas of Michelin-starred Makris Athens, who points to the city’s combination of exceptional Greek ingredients and a new generation of chefs bringing fresh ideas and technical precision to the table.
The feature particularly highlights the Varvakios Agora, Athens’ Central Market, as an ideal starting point for discovering the city’s food culture. Visitors are encouraged to explore the market early on a Saturday morning, with the fish market singled out as a particularly worthwhile stop.
Travel + Leisure also draws attention to some of the city’s less tourist-focused neighbourhoods. Metaxourgeio and Keramikos are recommended for travellers looking to explore Athens beyond the Acropolis and the historic centre, with their evolving restaurant scenes offering a glimpse into the city’s contemporary culinary identity.
The recognition comes at a time when Athens’ reputation as a food destination is growing internationally. The city has already appeared in several recent culinary rankings and features. Earlier this year, Travel + Leisure highlighted Athens among Europe’s destinations for authentic local food, while another ranking placed the Greek capital among Europe’s top 20 cities for travellers looking to eat like locals.
From traditional souvlaki, moussaka and fresh seafood to creative interpretations of Greek cuisine and an expanding fine-dining scene, Athens offers visitors a culinary experience that goes well beyond the traditional perception of Greek food.
The latest Travel + Leisure recognition further reinforces Athens’ position as a city where history, culture and food increasingly come together as key reasons to visit.
Read the full feature on Travel + Leisure
