Discover Athens - where ancient history meets modern street life
Planning a city break? Start witt hotels in Athens let you immerse yourself in one of the world’s great cultural capitals. By day, explore iconic ruins like the Parthenon or wander through buzzing neighbourhoods such as Plaka and Monastiraki. By night, enjoy rooftop views of the Acropolis while dining on Greek specialities. Whether you want boutique charm, family-friendly comfort, or a rooftop pool with history outside your window, Athens hotels make for a memorable stay.
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Monastiraki Square, Athens
Where to Stay in Athens
Athens offers a mix of historic districts and lively neighbourhoods, each with its own personality. From cobbled lanes under the Acropolis to elegant boulevards, here are some of the most popular areas to base yourself:
- Plaka – The city’s oldest quarter with marble streets, neoclassical houses, and family-run tavernas. Best for first-time visitors and couples seeking history and charm.
- Monastiraki – Famous for its flea market, rooftop bars, and Acropolis views. Best for shoppers, street-food fans, and nightlife lovers.
- Syntagma – Central hub with Parliament Square and easy metro links. Best for travellers who value convenience and direct airport access.
- Kolonaki – Upscale area with boutiques, galleries, and cafés at the base of Lycabettus Hill. Best for luxury travellers and culture enthusiasts.
- Koukaki – Residential and welcoming, with tree-lined streets and family-run hotels. Best for families and those who want a quieter base near top attractions.
One of Plaka’s colourful streets, Athens
Best Hotels in Athens
Athens has a wide range of hotels, from historic five-star icons to creative boutique stays and family-friendly bases. Here are the best hotels in Athens across the categories travellers most often search for.
Best Hotels with Acropolis Views in Athens
- Hotel Grande Bretagne (5-star): A landmark hotel on Syntagma Square with a rooftop restaurant overlooking the Parthenon. Elegant interiors and a spa make it a luxury classic.
- Electra Metropolis Athens (5-star): Modern style near Syntagma with a rooftop pool and bar offering sweeping Acropolis views. Central for sightseeing and shopping.
- The Athens Gate Hotel (4-star): Just opposite the Temple of Olympian Zeus and close to the Acropolis Museum. Rooftop dining comes with direct Parthenon views.
Best Boutique Hotels in Athens
- AthensWas Design Hotel (5-star): Sleek boutique on a pedestrian street by the Acropolis Museum. Minimalist rooms and a rooftop restaurant with Parthenon views.
- The Zillers Boutique Hotel (4-star): A neoclassical mansion in Monastiraki with elegant rooms and a rooftop terrace facing the Acropolis and Lycabettus Hill.
- New Hotel (4-star): Artistic design hotel near Syntagma Square with bold interiors, upcycled décor, and a popular rooftop lounge.
Best Family-Friendly Hotels in Athens
- St George Lycabettus (5-star): Kolonaki favourite with family suites, a rooftop pool, and a weekend playroom/cinema for kids. Parents love the terrace views.
- Grecotel Pallas Athena (4-star): Art-themed hotel near Monastiraki with colourful “Graffiti” rooms, a kids’ play area, and family menus.
- Electra Palace Athens (5-star): Elegant Plaka hotel with interconnected rooms, babysitting services, and a rooftop pool facing the Acropolis.
Best Hotels Near the Acropolis
- Herodion Hotel (4-star): Two minutes from the Acropolis Museum with a rooftop deck and jacuzzis overlooking the Parthenon. Comfortable, modern base for history buffs.
- COCO-MAT Athens BC (5-star): Eco-luxury hotel steps from the Acropolis with a rooftop pool, spa, and ultra-comfortable beds. Family rooms available.
- Plaka Hotel (3-star): Budget-friendly choice in Plaka with simple rooms and a rooftop bar offering panoramic Acropolis views.
Top Things to Do in Athens
- Acropolis & Parthenon: Climb Athens’ sacred rock for up-close views of the Parthenon and sweeping city panoramas.
- Acropolis Museum: Modern museum showcasing treasures from the Acropolis, with glass floors revealing ancient streets.
- Plaka & Anafiotika: Wander charming cobbled lanes and whitewashed houses that feel like a Greek island village.
- Monastiraki & Ancient Agora: Shop for souvenirs, then step back in time among temples and civic ruins.
- Changing of the Guard: Watch the Evzones perform their precise ritual outside Parliament in Syntagma Square.
- Mount Lycabettus: Ride the funicular or hike up for the best sunset views over Athens.
The Parthenon on the Athenian Acropolis, Athens
Getting to and Around Athens
By Air: Athens International Airport (ATH) is 30 km from the centre, with direct UK flights taking around 3.5–4 hours. Metro Line 3, buses, and taxis connect to the city.
By Train or Bus: Intercity trains link Athens to Thessaloniki in 4–5 hours. Long-distance buses run to destinations across Greece, including Delphi and Olympia.
By Car: Highways connect Athens with northern Greece and ferry ports. Driving in the city centre is difficult due to traffic and parking, so cars are best for excursions.
Getting Around: The metro is fast and efficient, with buses and trams filling the gaps. Taxis are affordable for short rides, and central Athens is very walkable.
When to Visit Paphos
Spring: Pleasant weather, fewer crowds, and blooming flowers. Great for exploring ruins and enjoying Easter celebrations with locals.
Summer: Hot and busy with temperatures often above 35°C. Best for nightlife, festivals, and rooftop bars. Sightseeing is best early morning or evening.
Autumn: Warm days linger into October, with fewer tourists and cultural events like the Athens Marathon. Comfortable for sightseeing and café hopping.
Winter: Mild but cooler and sometimes rainy. Fewer crowds and lower hotel rates make it peaceful for museums and local tavernas.
Frequently Asked Questions
Which area is best to stay in Athens?
Plaka for charm, Monastiraki for markets, Syntagma for central transport, Kolonaki for luxury, and Koukaki for quiet local life.
Are Athens hotels family-friendly?
Yes, many offer family rooms, play areas, and babysitting. Easystay filters help you find the best options for families.
Do Athens hotels have Acropolis views?
Yes, many hotels feature rooftop terraces or rooms overlooking the Parthenon. Popular options include Hotel Grande Bretagne and Electra Metropolis.
How do I book an Athens hotel with easyStay?
A: Search Athens on easyStay, compare hotels and reviews, then book securely through Booking.com.
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