Kolonaki in March

Spring and fall own this neighborhood. April through June gives you perfect weather for those long walks between boutiques and galleries, plus the jacaranda trees on Patriarchou Ioakeim Street bloom purple in late spring. September through November brings the best light for photography and comfortable temperatures for rooftop dining. Summer gets brutal — the marble streets reflect heat like mirrors, and many locals flee to the islands anyway. Winter has its charm if you're into cozy wine bars and fewer crowds, but some of the best rooftop spots close. The sweet spot? Late May or early October when the weather cooperates and the cultural calendar hits full swing.