Mother-daughter duo Alexia and Stalo Karides created their Greek jewellery brand in 2020 with a shared love of modern jewellery and ancient inspirations.
Born and raised in Athens, Alexia started her career as a corporate lawyer before turning her head to design. YSSO celebrates Greek heritage and the rich history and natural beauty of Greece, including elements from the sea, mountains and flora, made exclusively by Athenian workshops.
Here, Alexia shares all the best dining spots including authentic tavern-style food, the place to find one-of-a-kind vintage homeware, the island worth making a day trip for, and much more.
Spring and autumn are the best times to visit Athens. You take advantage of the milder weather and sunshine without the crowds and extreme summer heat.
Our first pitstop should be…
Downtown Athens, around Plaka. It’s the heart of the old Roman Agora.
Your favourite hotel to check-in at is…
The new Ace Hotel in Glyfada, it’s seriously stylish, and near the sea but also not far from downtown.
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For an early morning workout head to…
The beach for a run, from Glyfada to Voula.
Where should we go for breakfast?
Sofi’s in Vouliagmeni, an organic eatery with freshly made food.
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Where can we find the best coffee?
Freddo Espresso at Me in Kolonaki.
How about for a long, lazy lunch?
Taverna Oikonomou, a traditional Greek Tavern that serves hearty, local cuisine in a cosy setting.
Your favourite restaurant in town?
LS & Sia, which offers a new minimalist take on Greek cuisine.
And for dinner with friends?
Louna Athens is new, and really amazing for shared plates and great cocktails.
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A drink to order at the bar…
Mastiha Mojitos. The drink uses traditional Greek mastiha liquor made from resin only produced in Chios island.
The best place for people watching…
Brunello in Kolonaki – and it has a great atmosphere.
The culture spot to rave about…
The Benaki Museum in Athens is a one-stop panorama of Greek history and culture from the prehistoric era to the 20th century.
Where can I go shopping?
The best curation of artisanal Greek designs can be found at the Cycladic Art Museum gift shop.
Best vintage spots?
Martinos Antique and Fine Art Gallery has carpets and kilims from the East, valuable old silver, Islamic art, fine furniture, rare ceramics, paintings and sculptures, and decorative objects ranging from the Art Deco era to the Memphis group of the 80s.
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For the best views head to…
The rooftop of the Grande Bretagne for unbeatable views of the city.
Best spot for sundowners?
The Four Seasons Astir Palace in Vouliagmeni, at one of their outdoor terraces.
One place only locals know about…
Greeks have a huge baked goods culture (just like the French), so it’s worth exploring. The best bakery in Athens is Kora.
A book to read before we go?
Zorba the Greek by Nikos Kazantzakis.
For a change of pace try…
Heading to the Temple of Poseidon which is about a one-hour drive from downtown Athens.
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Souvenir to take home?
Traditional Greek jewellery and Greek pottery.
A must-try spot for date night?
Nolan in downtown Athens, a contemporary bistro in the heart of the city.
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The best place to treat yourself is…
Hotel Grande Bretagne Spa is really luxurious.
Your favourite neighbourhood(s)…
Kolonaki, for coffee and browsing.
Great day trips include…
A trip to the island of Hydra via the ferry.
How should we spend the final day of our trip?
At the Goulandris Natural History Museum cafeteria for a brunch or lunch and coffee, with a stroll around the suburban area north of Athens.
What’s your Athens secret?
Cherchez la Femme, a Greek bistro-style restaurant.
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What’s the dress code?
Always quite informal but elegant, so heels and nice jewellery are a must.
In one word, Athens is…
Diverse.
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Any Questions or Tips to add?