Neos Kosmos, which translates to “New World”, is a densely populated neighbourhood which in recent years has undergone a transformation with trendy restaurants and bars rapidly sprouting here and there whilst bringing new life to the area. If you’re feeling artsy and haven’t had the chance to visit the National Museum of Contemporary Art (EMST), hop off at Fix station for a Greek take on art affairs of the 20th century onwards, before the tracks take you into the depths of the neighbourhood. 

When you’re feeling peckish but have souvlaki overload, head to Tomas for the juiciest kebab (Baknana stop). This no-nonsense place has been around since 1987 and its Armenian owner knows better than most how to make a juicy ground beef and lamb skewer.

From the new world the tram takes you to New Smyrni, a neighbourhood that was established by the refugees that arrived in 1922 after the Smyrna catastrophe. Today, the neighbourhood is lively, commercial and new modern constructions are slowly replacing older apartment buildings. Hop off at Agia Fotini stop and let the kids loose at the central square which is lined with cafeterias, eateries, fountains and a 15-metre-high commemorative obelisk. If there was ever a time to enjoy a casual freddo coffee as a true Greek, this would be it. Need something more substantial? Head to Pop Up (same stop) for brunch and a milkshake for the kids; they also serve some mean cocktails-to-go.

If digging through record stores is an essential part of your travels, then don’t leave Nea Smyrni without a visit to one of Athens’ oldest record stores, Record House on Omirou Street. This half-a-century-old independent shop stocks across many genres, deals in both new and used records and always offers some great deals at its basement.

This seaside suburb is all about fun and leisure. The tram cuts through its central commercial street (Grigoriou Lambraki), so hop off and take a look around. With chain stores like Zara and H&M but also a multitude of boutiques featuring Greek designers, this place is a fashion paradise. If shopping is not what you’re here for, there’s plenty more to do in Glyfada. If you’re travelling with young ones, Oliver Family House is great for families. Kids can play in one of the two secure areas (indoor and outdoor) leaving parents to enjoy a relaxed coffee and the whole family can also have brunch or lunch there (kid’s menu available). If you’re kid-free, check out Pere Ubu, an all-day bar restaurant that serves upscale comfort food with a touch of soul and great cocktails.

Less than a decade ago, this long stretch of sand and glimmering clean water was anything but glam. What used to be a local family beach, crowded and loud in August, with tanned winter swimmers all year round, and the spot for the annual beach racket tournament now boasts thick-cushioned wooden sunbeds and white beach bars, while the sound of tennis balls against wooden rackets is replaced by music. If hip is your scene, it’s worth the €7.5-9 entrance fee to Athines by the Sea. The beach beds range from €50-70 per set, depending on whether it’s a weekend, and compared to the prices you will pay for the same further down the coast, it’s quite a good value for money.