Where to Stay in Athens

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The ancient Acropolis of Athens, Greece, with the Parthenon temple visible on a sunlit day against a clear sky

Planning a trip to the Greek capital? It can be difficult to choose where to stay in Athens, so let me give you some helpful tips!

I’ve visited Athens multiple times so I will gladly be your “e-guide” to the most tourist friendly areas in the city.

In short, Plaka is the best place to stay on your first visit – it’s got everything from historical sites to trendy restaurants!

Keep in mind that you’ll need to make hotel reservations in advance of your trip, as Athens is a popular destination, and good hotels tend to sell out quickly!

If you are in a hurry…

Here are the best hotels in the Plaka neighborhood of Athens:

Here’s a map of the Athens neighborhoods I’ll be talking about in this post:

A colorful map highlighting the best areas to stay in Athens, with numbered locations and labels for easy navigation

NOTE: The city center of Athens is quite big and encompasses several neighborhoods – Plaka, Syntagma Square, Monastiraki, and Psyri are the 4 main neighborhoods that comprise the city center of Athens.

There are many different areas in Athens, so to make your choice easier, here are my personalized recommendations:

1. Plaka – where to stay in Athens for the first time

A quaint street in Athens with colorful buildings and empty wooden chairs lining the sidewalk, exuding a serene Mediterranean atmosphere

Plaka neighborhood is essentially Athens’ Old Town, situated near the Acropolis. This is one of the prettiest areas in the entire city, and it’s very walkable – perfect for first-time visitors!

If you decide to stay in Plaka, you’ll be within walking distance of all the major attractions, such as the Acropolis of Athens, the Old Acropolis Museum, the Parthenon, the ancient Greek temple Erechtheion, and the Roman Forum of Athens, also known as the Ancient Agora.

Some other ancient sites that are worth a visit include the Theatre of Dionysus, the Odeon of Herodes Atticus, and Areopagus Hill. Within Plaka, you’ll also come across the scenic neighborhood of Anafiotika, lined with traditional Greek white-washed houses.

Besides providing many of the top things to do in Athens, Plaka is also ideally located for exploring other neighborhoods – Neos Kosmos and Thiseio are the top 2 that you shouldn’t overlook during your visit.

PRO TIP: if you’re visiting Athens between July and August, avoid visiting the Acropolis in the hours between 11 am and 4 pm – it’s incredibly hot! Not many people know it, but Acropolis is open until 8 pm, so I advise you to visit after 6.30 pm after the crowds are gone.

A collage of three hotel photos to stay in Athens: A chic café terrace with black chairs and tables, a minimalistic hotel bedroom with green striped walls, and a cozy sitting area with purple accents and a large window.

Luxury (€250 and up)

Electra Metropolis – This modern hotel has a great location in the city center and friendly staff. Guests at the Electra Metropolis can use the rooftop pool with a waterfall effect.
Electra Palace Athens – During your stay at Electra Palace, make use of the sauna and the indoor pool and enjoy the view of the Acropolis from the hotel’s spacious rooms.

Mid-range (from €120 to €250)

Urban Frame Plaka – Positioned in a central location, this 3-star hotel offers airport transfers, a concierge service, and a tour desk. A car rental service is also available on-site.
Cityzoe Athens Suites – These sustainable apartments are air-conditioned, feature a private bathroom, and provide access to a shared garden and terrace.

Budget (up to €120)

Kimon Hotel Athens – The affordable hotel is just a short walk away from trendy restaurants and bars and boasts a rooftop garden overlooking the Acropolis.
Phaedra Hotel – In a prime location in Athens city center, this budget accommodation has air-conditioned rooms, each with a private bathroom, a TV, a telephone, and a desk.

2. Syntagma – where to stay in Athens on a short trip

Two Greek Evzones soldiers performing the traditional changing of the guard ceremony in front of a historical monument, showcasing cultural heritage in their distinctive uniforms

Syntagma Square is Athens’ central square, 2 km (1.2 miles) North of Plaka. The square is also the main public transport hub in the city, which makes it the best spot if your time in the Greek capital is limited and you need to get around the city quickly and efficiently.

At the center of Syntagma Square, you’ll see the Old Royal Palace, i.e., the Greek Parliament Building, and you can also stop by the Monument to the Unknown Soldier (map).

The Athens National Garden (map) borders the square and is home to many exotic plants, archeological remains, and the Temple of Olympian Zeus.

When you’re done exploring the National Garden, I recommend you keep moving East to the Pangrati neighborhood to see the Panathenaic Stadium (map), the location of the first modern Olympic games!

A collage of three hotel photos to stay in Athens: An elegant living room with classic furniture and a grand piano, a simple yet stylish hotel room with contemporary décor, and a balcony with a view of an urban landscape.

Luxury (€280 and up)

Hotel Grande Bretagne Athens – The Hotel Grande Bretagne is one of the best luxury hotels in Athens, with stylish rooms, an upscale rooftop restaurant, a rooftop pool, and a fitness center.
King George Hotel Athens – The King George is a Luxury Collection Hotel with a signature restaurant, meeting facilities, and a fitness center, located within a short walk from Syntagma metro station.

Mid-range (from €170 to €280)

Pan Hotel – This family-operated hotel boasts an on-site bar and private parking. The rooms are air-conditioned and have a private bathroom stocked with free toiletries.
Hotel Achilleas – Conveniently located in the city center, this hotel features modern rooms, has a 24/7 reception desk, and offers a delicious complimentary breakfast.

Budget (up to €170)

Bedbox Hostel – This great hostel awaits you with different types of rooms (dormitory and private), a 24-hour front desk, free Wi-Fi, and access to a shared kitchen.
Rastoni Suites – These budget suites are in a great location, close to Syntagma Square and the metro station. Each of the units is air-conditioned and has a seating area with a flat-screen TV.

3. Psyri – where to stay in Athens for nightlife

Dusk view of Athens cityscape showing dense residential buildings and the glow of the setting sun softening the urban landscape.

Psyri (sometimes also written as “Psirri”) is one of the most central neighborhoods in Athens, situated just North of Plaka, and it’s one of the best places to stay for nightlife – there are numerous clubs and bars in this area!

Iroon Square (map) is the focal point of interest in the neighborhood, which is recognizable for the street art and the restaurants and dessert shops surrounding the square.

During your stay here, make sure to visit one of the Greek restaurants for a delicious Greek salad and a shot of ouzo – a traditional Greek spirit.

If you want to explore a little outside the Psyri neighborhood, I suggest heading North to Omonoia to visit the Athens Central Market.

Further north, you’ll find Exarcheia, which is a very authentic neighborhood where many Greek poets used to live. Here, you can admire the amazing street art and stop by the National Archaeological Museum, but be sure to check the museum’s website for the correct operating hours!

P.S. If you want to stay in the lively Exarcheia neighborhood (15 min driving North from Psyri), Melia Athens is an amazing upscale hotel.

A collage of three hotel photos to stay in Athens: A modern apartment entryway with geometric designs, an outdoor patio with lush greenery and stylish seating, and a vibrant bedroom with colorful accents and a large, cozy bed.

Luxury (€220 and up)

MiraMe Boutique Hotel – This 4-star boutique hotel awaits modern rooms, room service, a rooftop restaurant and a bar, and stunning city views.
O&B Athens Boutique Hotel – A stylish hotel situated 2 min away from Thisio Metro Station, with a hip lounge bar and gorgeous rooms with Egyptian cotton sheets and marble bathrooms.

Mid-range (from €140 to €220)

Ederlezi Boutique Hotel – This boutique hotel is conveniently located in Athens city center and has free Wi-Fi, air conditioning, and even a cozy garden where you can relax.
14 Reasons Why – A modern hotel in the heart of Athens, near Monastiraki metro station, with a terrace, lounge, and an amazing breakfast included in the price.

Budget (up to €140)

City Circus – Centrally located, this hotel features a rooftop terrace, a bar/restaurant, and soundproof rooms with wooden floors, with access to either private or shared bathrooms.
Athens Hub Hostel – Offering private rooms and beds in shared dormitories, the hostel also has a 24/7 front desk, a terrace, and a bar where you can enjoy evening entertainment.

4. Monastiraki – where to stay in Athens for shopping

Classic architecture in Athens with the Acropolis in the background, illustrating the historic blend of different eras in one frame.

Monastiraki is a quaint neighborhood bordering Plaka to the South, famous for several important landmarks and the many shopping opportunities, particularly the Monastiraki Flea Market.

While visiting Athens, be sure to be at the Monastiraki Flea Market on Sunday and get your share of souvenirs. Near Monastiraki Square, you can start to explore Ermou Street, Athens’ main shopping street.

In Monastiraki, you can also visit major attractions like Hadrian’s Library, the Ancient Agora, and the Stoa of Attalos.

Monastiraki is also famous for its great restaurants, where you can try many traditional Greek dishes! There’s also the Monastiraki metro station, so you can easily explore the rest of the city.

A collage of three hotel photos to stay in Athens: A bedroom with red accents and a comfortable bed, a sophisticated living room with modern furnishings and large windows, and a dining area with sleek white chairs and natural light.

Luxury (€240 and up)

The Dolli at Acropolis – A 5-star hotel with spacious rooms, a 24/7 front desk, room service, a lovely terrace, and an outdoor swimming pool, plus a complimentary breakfast.
The Zillers Boutique Hotel – This is one of the best boutique hotels in the city center, featuring a bar, restaurant, and a sun terrace offering unbeatable views of the Acropolis.

Mid-range (from €100 to €240)

Downtown Suites by Athens Tower Hotel – A 3-star hotel offering air-conditioned rooms with city views and free Wi-Fi, situated super-close to the Monastiraki Railway Station.
Nsplace – These fully equipped apartments boast steam baths and Acropolis views, and guests also get access to a fitness center and bike rentals.

Budget (up to €100)

Tempi Hotel Athens – This family-run hotel has clean and cozy rooms with views of either the Acropolis or the flea market, and all guests get access to the communal kitchen and the hotel’s library.
Day in Athens – An aparthotel near Ermou Street, offering accommodation units with private bathrooms, air conditioning, and flat-screen TVs.

5. Koukaki – where to stay in Athens for a local experience

A typical Athenian street lined with parked cars and motorcycles, reflecting the everyday life and residential nature of the city.

If you want to be super close to the Acropolis but still enjoy the local atmosphere, Koukaki is the place to be! The neighborhood is situated South of the Acropolis and Plaka, just 1 km (0.6 miles) away from the neighborhood.

The Koukaki neighborhood is primarily a residential area, so you won’t find as many attractions here. However, Koukaki is right below Philopappos Hill and The Prison of Socrates, which definitely warrants a visit.

By all means, you should also consider staying in Makrygianni, which is a tiny area between Koukaki and Plaka. I’d also recommend venturing out to Akadimia, a lovely neighborhood North of Syntagma Square, and exploring the contemporary art in the nearby art galleries and museums.

A collage of three hotel photos to stay in Athens: The hotel's multi-story facade with a bold sign, a rustic-style bedroom with warm tones, and a luxurious poolside area with a view of the Acropolis.

Luxury (€300 and up)

Coco-mat Athens BC – Conveniently situated in central Athens, a short walk from the Acropolis Museum, this 5-star hotel boasts a restaurant, a fitness center, a sauna, and a sun terrace.
Divani Palace Acropolis – Each of the rooms at this luxury hotel is elegantly decorated and features a private, furnished balcony, and the hotel also has an amazing rooftop restaurant.

Mid-range (from €150 to €300)

Acropolis View Hotel – This hotel has a rooftop terrace where you can have a drink and admire the spectacular Parthenon views, and you’ll also enjoy a daily American breakfast.
Hotel @Syngrou Fix – The hotel is in a central location, close to many hip bars and restaurants, offers private, stylish, and soundproof rooms, and serves a daily buffet breakfast.

Budget (up to €150)

Marble House – This hotel is within walking distance of the metro station, and the Acropolis Museum offers classically decorated rooms and provides luggage storage free of charge.
NOHO Boutique Koukaki – this affordable accommodation in air-conditioned rooms with free Wi-Fi access and a kitchenette. The hotel also offers an airport shuttle for an additional fee.

6. Kolonaki – where to stay in Athens with family

The facade of a neoclassical building in Athens adorned with Greek flags, representing the elegance found within the city's architecture.

Now, if you’re the type of traveler who’s looking for luxury hotels, upscale restaurants, and designer shops, look no further than Kolonaki! This high-end neighborhood is situated northeast of Plaka and is 3 km (1.8 miles) away from the Acropolis.

The suffix ‘-aki’ always means ‘little’ in the Greek, so Kolonaki actually means ‘Little Column’!

Kolonaki is a safe yet lively neighborhood – the perfect spot for a family stay. The main attraction in this area is Lycabettus Hill – I highly suggest going up to the top of Lycabettus Hill for the best views of Athens!

Other than spectacular views, Kolonaki has plenty of museums, including the Byzantine and Christian Museum (check their site to see when the entrance is free), the Athens War Museum (book tickets online), and the Benaki Museum.

A collage of three hotel photos to stay in Athens: A snug bedroom with artistic wall decorations, a spacious apartment with a modern living area, and the hotel's contemporary exterior with a green facade.

Luxury (€210 and up)

Academias Hotel, Autograph Collection – At this 5-star hotel, guests can make use of a gym and an indoor pool, have dinner at the restaurant, order room service, or visit the on-site nightclub.
The Modernist Athens – Situated in a former embassy, this hotel has a fitness center and front desk open 24/7, spacious rooms, and offers a delicious buffet breakfast.