Sitting just north of the Athens CBD, Chalandri is one of the city’s trendiest districts. It’s both commercial and residential, with locals also referring to the area as “Halandri”. Chalandri is known for its leafy streets, on-trend shopping and lively nightlife. If you want to experience Athens like a local, a day in Chalandri will unlock a whole new perspective on Greece’s ancient capital.
Things to do in Chalandri
The best way to get your bearings is with a stroll around Chalandri’s main square. It’s a great place to people watch and soak up the laid-back neighbourhood atmosphere.
Branching off the main square are a maze of leafy streets lined with an eclectic mix of brunch cafes, organic juice bars and artisanal cheesemakers. When the sun sets, Chalandri is a nightlife hub, with plenty of cocktail lounges, raki bars and live music venues to explore.
By far, one of Chalandri’s biggest draws is its vibrant shopping scene. The neighbourhood is a mecca for trendy boutiques selling everything from designer clothing and custom jewellery to quirky homewares and second-hand books.
Chalandri sits at the foot of Mount Penteli, one of the city’s three peaks. For a healthy dose of fresh air, why not hike to the summit and unlock sweeping views of the city? On the way, you’ll pass by the Old Pendeli Monastery, an ancient building that dates back to Byzantine times.
Getting around Chalandri
Chalandri is just nine kilometres from downtown Athens, a 25-minute drive or 45-minute metro ride. Its convenient location makes it easy to access big-ticket attraction like the Acropolis of Athens, Parthenon and historic Plaka district. If you’re heading to Athens International Airport, the drive is around 30 minutes.