The Complete Guide to a Kosher Trip to Athens

Athens' Jewish community — led historically by the Romaniote community, one of the oldest in the world — today centers around the Psiri neighborhood, with a Chabad house and kosher restaurant a short walk from the Acropolis and the old city. Here's a short guide to planning your visit.

Synagogues

Beth Shalom Synagogue is Athens' active Sephardic synagogue, standing on Melidoni Street alongside the Romaniote-style Etz Hayyim Synagogue — a reminder of the ancient Greek-Jewish community that predates the arrival of Sephardic Jews in the city. The Jewish Museum of Greece, documenting over 2,300 years of Jewish presence in Greece, is a short walk away.

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Chabad House and where to eat

Chabad of Athens, on Aisopou Street in Psiri, is the community's hub, with the kosher Gostijo restaurant and E-Kosher Mini Market right next door. Parakalo is another dairy option in the neighborhood.

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The Acropolis — arrive at opening time

The Acropolis and its Parthenon, built in the 5th century BCE, are the symbol of Athens and the city's most sought-after sight. Practical tip: buy a ticket in advance and arrive right at opening time, 8am — this avoids both the harsh midday Greek heat and the large tour groups that arrive later.

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Between the Jewish Psiri quarter and the Acropolis and the old city, Athens offers a combination of ancient Jewish history alongside one of the world's most impressive heritage sites — all within walking distance.