Athens Named World’s Best City for Nightlife in Monocle’s 2025 Quality of Life Survey

Ranked third among the top 10 cities to live in globally, behind Paris and Madrid, the Greek capital is celebrated for its 24-hour vibrancy and cultural revival.

Athens has been crowned the world’s best city for nightlife in Monocle magazine’s 18th annual Quality of Life Survey, published in its July/August 2025 issue.Ranked third among the top 10 cities to live in globally, behind Paris and Madrid, the Greek capital is celebrated for its 24-hour vibrancy and cultural revival.

Monocle praises Athens’ transformation from economic struggles to a dynamic hub, with neighborhoods like Neo Kosmos, Ilisia, and Vyssis Street now buzzing with young creatives, nightlife enthusiasts, and entrepreneurs. Repurposed warehouses and pop-up cocktail bars contribute to the city’s lively, open-air atmosphere, described by local jewelry designer Eleni Georgiou as “like one big open-air gathering.”

The city’s relaxed licensing laws for shop hours and alcohol sales, a shift from the restrictive “Papathemelis Law” of the 1990s, have fueled this cultural energy. Tourism has also surged, with 7.9 million visitors in 2024—a 12% increase from the previous year—drawn by the Acropolis and Athens’ sleepless reputation.

Affordable transport, including metro service until 2 a.m. on weekends and inexpensive taxis, enhances its appeal. Despite rising real estate prices due to affluent visitors, Athens remains relatively affordable, with a glass of wine costing under €6. Monocle notes that while other European cities’ nightlife has waned, Athens thrives, dancing to its own rhythm.