Where to Stay in Athens → BEST Guide to Top 8 Areas & Hotels

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Planning a trip to Athens? It may seem anything but easy to choose where to stay in Athens, so let me give you some tips so you can select the best area for you!

I have selected 8 amazing neighborhoods; Monastiraki for the shoppers, Psyri for the nightlife, Koukaki for a local vibe, and many more! I am sure you will find something for your interest and budget. But my recommendation for the best place to stay in Athens is Plaka, super central and very authentic!

Since this city is a relatively cheap destination in Europe, many travelers visit all year long, which also means that the best hotels get booked FAST, so I recommend booking as soon as you choose where to stay!

Keep reading, as I’ll thoroughly explain to you everything you need to know about where to stay in Athens.

Let’s go!

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Quick Picks for Your Stay…

Scroll down to see the best hotels I recommend in each neighborhood in Athens.

• Best luxury hotel –  Hotel Grande Bretagne
• Best middle-priced hotel – 14 Reasons Why
• Best budget hotel – Mosaikon

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Here is a map of Athens so you can better visualize the best neighborhoods that I’ll talk about in this article:

Now, I mentioned above that there are many different areas in Athens and each of them is perfect for a specific type of traveler. To make your choice easier, here are my personalized recommendations:

• Best place in Athens for the first time: Plaka
• Top neighborhood in Athens for nightlife: Psyri
• Where to stay for shopping: Monastiraki
• Best area in Athens for families: Kolonaki
• Where to stay for budget travelers: Gazi

I hope everything’s clear for you now. Below you’ll find my hand-picked hotels (and apartments as well) in each of these areas.

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1. Plaka – top neighborhood for first timers

Plaka neighborhood is, basically, Athens’ Old Town and one of the prettiest areas in the entire city! 

It’s a VERY charming and bright neighborhood with authentic markets, colorful buildings, narrow streets, and tons of local restaurants and bars where Athenians just sit and enjoy their morning (or evening… or night) coffee.

If you decide to stay in Plaka, you’ll be within walking distance to many important sights such as the Acropolis, Agora, which I think is a very charming ancient site, and the area is super close to the Byzantine and Christian Museum!

Luxury (US$250 and up)

• Ava Hotels Athens – The stylish hotel has 4-star service, and I promise you’ll feel very spoiled during your stay. It’s located only 5 minutes away from the Acropolis and Acropolis Museum – great for culture lovers!
• Electra Metropolis – This modern hotel has a great location in the city center, and it has beautiful clean rooms, friendly staff, and a very relaxing atmosphere! It also has a fitness center, a rooftop pool with a waterfall effect, and a sun terrace with views over the city.

[/vc_column_text][vc_message]READ MORE: 7 Best Areas Where to Stay in Greece  → Hotels&Prices[/vc_message][vc_column_text]

Middle-priced (US$120 to US$250)

• The Athenians Art Apartment – This is an excellent self-catering accommodation if you are looking for a great place to stay in Plaka! Some of the apartments here have gorgeous views of Athens landmarks, what else can you wish for?
• Gatsby Athens – Here’s another excellent Plaka hotel! This is one of the best boutique hotels in Athens, offering a restaurant and a bar for you to relax and its super close to the National Historic Museum and National Garden, among many other landmarks!

Budget (up to US$120)

• Mosaikon – This budget hostel is simply perfect if you want to be in the heart of Athens for a very accessible price! Mosaikon offers cozy rooms with air conditioning and a private bathroom. Plus, it’s just a short walk from Ermou Street, Monastiraki Square, and Syntagma Square.
• Athens Hub Hostel – When it comes to hostels, Athens knows how to treat its guests! This cute and cozy accommodation has free Wi-Fi and friendly staff. Staying in one of their dormitory rooms will definitely help your budget!

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2. Syntagma – best area in Athens for short trips

Syntagma Square, also known as the “Constitution Square,” is so iconic because many historical events happened here, even battles. The area is anything but short on great restaurants, pubs, tavernas, bars (especially on Valaoritou Street) – and, of course, shopping streets. The Greek Parliament building lies right in the middle of the square, so you just can’t miss it.

So if you want to be in central Athens, here are the best places to stay in Syntagma:

Luxury (US$250 and up)

• Hotel Grande Bretagne Athens – The Grand Bretagne Hotel in Athens is actually one of the most well-known hotels in the entire city. This gorgeous 5-star property is located right opposite Syntagma Square and the Parliament building, and it awaits with a rooftop swimming pool, a luxurious on-site restaurant, beautiful rooms, and more!
• King George Hotel Athens – The decoration in this luxury collection hotel is simply majestic, with chandeliers and marble columns everywhere. It is also located near Syntagma metro station, Syntagma Square and Plaka. It’s perfect for your stay if you want to be close to the Acropolis!

[/vc_column_text][vc_message]READ MORE: Where to Stay in Santorini – 7 Best Areas (With Hotels and Prices!)[/vc_message][vc_column_text]

Middle-priced (US$170 to US$250)

• Living Near Acropolis –  This incredible apartment is simple, cozy, clean, and has an excellent location!
• La Maison – If you love Plaka and want to be as close to it as possible, then this is your choice! Every room has air conditioning as well as rooms with beautiful city views.

Budget (up to US$170)

• Bedbox Hostel – This great hostel awaits with different types of rooms (dormitory and private), a 24-hours front desk, and more! Perfect for two or more days!
• Rastoni Suites – My second recommendation is a great budget suite! This accommodation is modern and elegant, but it has a very good price and an even better location. You want convenience after all, right?

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3. Psyri – top place in Athens for nightlife

Except for being a very central area as well, Psyri is one of the best places to stay for nightlife and if you’re a party animal! 

Psyri is well-known for its many clubs and bars, and there’s always something happening there at night (especially around Iroon Square), no chance of getting bored! Go there to visit Athens Central Market or to enjoy some ouzo (the traditional Greek alcohol), concerts, street art, or if you want to dance in the bar all night long.

So, if you know you’re a night owl that’s looking for great nightlife opportunities, be quick and book a room in one of these best hotels in Psyri:

Luxury (US$200 and up)

• The Artist Athens – This hotel is excellent if you want to be close to one of the best shopping areas in Athens – Ermou street! During your stay here, you’ll definitely enjoy the clean and cozy rooms and the terrace – so nice!
• MiraMe Boutique Hotel – Featuring a restaurant, bar, and views of the garden, this 4-star boutique hotel awaits with nothing but excellent service and beautiful, modern rooms. Centrally located near all the famous landmarks, this hotel offers a rooftop bar restaurant with a stunning view of the Acropolis.

[/vc_column_text][vc_message]READ MORE: 5 AMAZING Areas to Stay in Mykonos → FULL GUIDE[/vc_message][vc_column_text]

Middle-priced (from US$130 to US$200)

• Ederlezi Boutique Hotel – This boutique hotel has free Wi-Fi, free bikes, and even a cozy garden where you can relax.
• 14 Reasons Why – I’ll give you 14 reasons why it’s a good idea to book a room at this hotel! Okay, maybe not exactly 14, but I’ll mention the beautiful terrace, awesome location, shared lounge, clean rooms, free Wi-Fi – need I say more?!

Budget (up to US$130)

• City Circus – This grand hotel is an excellent idea if you want to stay in a nice place and save money! Centrally located, this hotel features a rooftop terrace and a bar restaurant!
• Evripides Hotel – If you prefer a hotel instead, this 2-star property comes with very good prices. The location is amazing as well, very central. You’ll have everything you need here for a pleasant stay!

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4. Monastiraki – best area for shopping

Monastiraki is most famous for its Monastiraki Flea Market, which comes to life every Sunday. There are also many shops in this area where you’ll find tons of souvenirs, trinkets, clothes, jewelry, and everything in between. Monastiraki is also famous for its many bars and restaurants – plus souvlaki places!

As you can see, Athens is full of unique neighborhoods, you can check all the best areas to stay in Greece to get to know the island better!

Luxury (US$250 and up)

• 360 Degrees – This fantastic hotel is located right in Monastiraki Square, and it has a beautiful 360 degrees rooftop restaurant and bar where you can enjoy the city views and sunset.
• The Zillers Boutique Hotel – Here’s yet another very beautiful 4-star hotel where I recommend booking a room if you want to have views of the Acropolis! They also have an on-site restaurant and bar and many other excellent facilities and amenities!

[/vc_column_text][vc_message]READ MORE: Where to stay in Naxos, Greece – INCREDIBLE Hotels and Airbnbs![/vc_message][vc_column_text]

Middle-priced (US$100 to US$250)

• Ciel Living Athens – If you’re looking for a modern, clean, and incredibly cozy place for your stay, I found the ideal place for you! This superb hotel comes at reasonable prices, and it’s right in the city center!
• Arcade Hotel – If you want to enjoy some stunning city views while you stand in your room, then this hotel is excellent for you. Plus, it’s only 600m away from Monastiraki Square – great and the Monastiraki flea market.

Budget (up to US$100)

• Tempi Hotel Athens – This hotel has clean and cozy rooms, a fantastic location, and even a communal kitchen that you can use!
• Kimon Hotel – Here’s another great budget option, especially good if you want to be super close to the Plaka neighborhood as well! One of the best advantages of this place is the rooftop garden, where you can unwind and relax after a full day of exploration!

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5. Koukaki – top place in Athens for a local vibe

If you want to be super close to the Acropolis but still enjoy a local (and not very touristic) atmosphere, Koukaki is your place to be!

Koukaki district is located a bit South of the Acropolis, and it’s a much calmer area. It’s actually a residential area of the city where I recommend going for traditional Greek bars and tavernas, beautiful streets, good coffee, and more!

Koukaki Square is the heart of this neighborhood, and Georgaki Olympiou Street or Drakou street are the best places to be if you’re searching for traditional shops and food places. It is also very close to two main cultural spots – the Acropolis and the Acropolis Museum.

Luxury (US$300 and up)

• Deluxe Penthouse – This fantastic 4-star luxury apartment offers views of landmarks such as Acropolis, Parthenon, Filopappou Hill, and Acropolis Museum. It has fully equipped rooms and excellent service.
• Coco-mat Athens BC – Here’s another 5-star world-class hotel for your stay in Athens! This one has both an indoor and outdoor swimming pool, stunning rooms, and impeccable service. What more could you wish for?

Middle-priced (from US$140 to US$300)

• Hotel @Syngrou Fix – This hotel is everything you need if you’re looking for convenience – it has good prices, a very good service, excellent reviews, and an ideal location, very close to TONS of pubs, restaurants, and bars!
• Acro Urban Suites – This hotel is a real hidden gem in the city if you ask me. This aparthotel has luxury service and some very accessible prices. So if you find a room here, make sure and book it ASAP!

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Budget (up to US$140)

• Acropolis Stay – Believe it or not, this amazing, cozy hotel is super close to the Parthenon, Acropolis Museum, and other essential landmarks in the city. Plus is super cheap and a great option if you are traveling on a budget.
• Acropolis View Hotel – Another great option if you travel on a budget! This hotel offers spectacular Parthenon views and is close to the Ancient Ruins and Ancient Agora. It has a fantastic rooftop restaurant and bar where you can enjoy a drink or buffet breakfast.

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6. Kolonaki – best neighborhood in Athens for families

Now, if you’re the type of traveler that’s looking for luxury hotels, upscale restaurants and designer shops, look no further than Kolonaki!

The district of Kolonaki is the ideal base for you if you want to be close to tons of shopping opportunities and amazing restaurants during your stay. This area is right North-East of the Acropolis, not very far from it.

I’m also recommending Kolonaki if you’re a culture aficionado as well. Here you will find the Benaki Museum, where you’ll find a lot of contemporary art and Greek art from many different areas.

While you’re in the area, you can also go up Lycabettus Hill (Kolonaki is located right at its base) or take a stroll on Tsakalof Street to enjoy some coffee or, why not, wine.

Luxury (US$200 and up)

• Oniro City – This fabulous hotel is perfect for a luxury stay in Kolonaki! It’s a great fit if you want to have a gym or a wine bar during your stay. It is also conveniently located super near many awesome attractions like Syntagma Square, the Acropolis, Ermou Street-Shopping Area and more!
• Hotel Lozenge – This 4-star hotel is a great choice as well! It has some very beautiful modern rooms where tourists will definitely feel spoiled. Some other great perks include the on-site restaurant with Mediterranean cuisine, bike hire, friendly staff, and more.

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Middle-priced (from US$120 to US$200)

• Periscope – Here’s another gorgeous, really modern hotel in Athens for a pleasant stay in the city! This one awaits with top-notch service but some rather accessible prices, especially considering the great location and proximity to so many shops!
• Sir Athens – This is another great, cozy hotel. I think it’s a great choice if you want to be close to public transportation and also be within walking distance of the Acropolis. Win-win!

Budget (up to US$120)

• Dimokritou 4 Apartment – Are you looking for a beautiful apartment where you can enjoy 3-star service? Yep, it is possible! This awesome property has spacious rooms, and it’s only 600m away from Syntagma Square – the very heart of the city!
• Flat31 – Here, I am recommending another gorgeous apartment in Kolonaki. This one is just big enough for a couple, and it has all the amenities you might need.

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7. Metaxourgeio – best area for the vibrant art scene

Metaxourgeio is, if you ask me, a kind of an underrated area of Athens where you can find an amazing art scene!

Metaxourgeio it’s very central and also well-connected to the rest of the city via public transportation. It also has a very strong, artistic vibe, and it’s full of awesome food places, art galleries, and, of course, cafes.

Also, if you choose to stay here, you’ll be within walking distance of the National Archaeological Museum, which is basically the main sight of this neighborhood, while Avdi Square is the heart of the district.

Luxury (US$230 and up)

• Wyndham Grand Athens –  This is one of the best 5-star hotels in Athens, Greece, and it’s everything you’ve been dreaming of – it has a gorgeous rooftop pool, spa center, gym, lounge bar, and free Wi-Fi as well, of course.
• Wyndham Athens Residence – On the other hand, this beautiful 4-star hotel awaits the same luxury service! This one’s located extremely close to Metaxourgeio metro station, which I think is a great bonus! And the decor? It’s simply beautiful if you ask me!

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Middle-priced (from US$100 to US$230)

• Bespoke House – This hotel is very tasteful, with lovely decor and excellent service! It has rooms with a patio or balcony with pool or garden views, it is the perfect option to stay if you want to enjoy Athens!
• Titania Hotel Athens – Even though this hotel is not as close to the metro station, I’m still recommending it because it offers fantastic service and facilities! But if you want to stay here, please know that it’s 1 km from Metaxourgeio, very close to Omonia Square, and the magnificent National Museum!

Budget (up to US$100)

• Connect Studios & Apartments –  This fantastic apartment is a remarkable feat for budget travelers who don’t want to give up on perfect service. The decor is very lovely, the entire place is super clean, and it also has a great location – I’d say there’s nothing not to love here!
• Paris & Helen – Here is another option if you are traveling on a budget but still want to stay in a great apartment! This accommodation offers a balcony with city views and is super close to many metro stations and landmarks.

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8. Gazi – where to stay in Athens on a budget

If you’re a budget traveler that still wants to be close to all the main attractions in Athens, then pick Gazi and you’ll have no regrets!

Gazi is more on the budget side of things. It’s a great place to stay if you don’t want to spend a big part of your money on accommodation plus it’s also a fabulous spot for nightlife, and is only 20 minutes away from the main attractions in case you want the best of both worlds.

This district is also full of street art, amazing restaurants, cafes, pubs, and clubs as well, so you won’t get bored! Ah, and don’t forget to check out Technopolis – an industrial museum in the area where you’ll find plenty of exhibitions and concerts.

Luxury (US$130 and up)

• 47 Luxury Suites – This luxury apartment is the perfect example with its incredibly tasteful decor, rooftop garden, and hot tub. It’s the ideal place where you can feel spoiled!
• Thission Luxury Homes – If you still haven’t found where to stay in Athens for your luxury tastes in this nightlife neighborhood, I have another suggestion. Here’s a gorgeous apartment that awaits free Wi-Fi, a nice garden, and even bike rental services. Plus, it’s also very close to Monastiraki Square – what more can you wish for?!

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Middle-priced (from US$80 to US$130)

• Mc Queen – If you’re looking for some reasonable prices, you’re in the right place. This awesome aparthotel is located right in the heart of Gazi, close to the railway station. During your stay, you’ll be able to enjoy the free Wi-Fi, minimal and super clean rooms, delicious breakfast served daily, and more!
• Gaia Rooms & Apartments – Great service, friendliness, and a fantastic location – these are 3 of the perks of staying in this place. Need I say more? Okay, maybe the delicious breakfast and the proximity to Ermou street (the main shopping street) will convince you, as it’s only 300m away!

Budget (up to US$80)

• Home Apartments – This apartment is the perfect choice for all budget travelers! Located in a beautiful area is super close to many landmarks such as the Temple of Hephaestus, the Ancient Agora of Athens, and Monastiraki Square.
• Iconic Athens Hostel – A modern hostel complex that offers a unique staying experience right at the heart of Athens and a great place to meet new people. It also has a fantastic rooftop where you can relax with stunning views of Acropolis, Lycabettus hill, and Technopolis.

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BONUS 1: Best apartments in Athens

Staying in an apartment is terrific if you’re the type of person that wants a homey atmosphere. Plus, staying in an apartment doesn’t mean you’ll lose the incredible, high-end facilities of staying in a hotel, as most of the apartments in Athens are gorgeous!

Here are some of the best apartments right in the heart of Athens:

Luxury (US$130 and up)

• Hub Suites* Suite 1* Acropolis & Terrace Luxury – This is a fabulous luxury Airbnb right in the city’s heart! The design is simply unique, and the terrace is probably one of its most significant advantages – just gorgeous!
• Acropolis Apartment with Indoor Jacuzzi – Where to stay in Athens if you want an apartment but also some luxury? This is probably one of the most unique apartments you’ll find, with a cute garden-view balcony and a relaxing indoor jacuzzi.

Middle-priced (US$80 to US$130)

• Syntagma apartment with terrace view – This fabulous self-catering accommodation is a perfect option if you want to stay in Syntagma Square and want to save some dollars. The terrace is the perfect place to stay and relax with a glass of wine after a day of exploring the city!
• Elegant Suite @ Plaka – AthINN Residence Hotel – And this is my middle-priced recommendation in Plaka, my favorite neighborhood in Athens! The check-in is very quick and easy, the location is perfect, and it only has fabulous reviews!

Budget (up to US$80)

• Holidays close to Acropolis – The name says it all: this is a great place to spend your Athens holidays if you want to be as close to this famous landmark as possible! This apartment is super clean and very nicely decorated, and the prices are very good!
• Music Box House, a new apartment near Acropolis – If you want an apartment with a unique design, this one is for you! It’s bright, clean and very cozy and it’s right in the heart of the city!

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BONUS 2: Best hotels near the airport

If you have a late-night flight or you’re about to drop off a rented car, maybe staying close to the airport would be the best decision for you. Regardless of your reasons, I found three incredible apartments and guesthouses located as close to Eleftherios Venizelos International Airport (ATH) as possible.

Here’s where to stay in Athens near the airport:

• Dina’s House – Here’s my recommendation for luxury travelers who want to be as close to the airport as possible, as this fantastic villa is only 4km from the airport. I definitely recommend it for a group of up to 5 people (or for a couple, why not)? It’s spacious, super clean, and very nicely decorated!
• Villa Vravrona Tower & Suites – If you’re looking for middle-priced accommodation instead, know that this villa is pretty close – 4km from the airport. They also offer an airport shuttle if you want, which I think is a great bonus!
• Villa d’Irene – If you’re on a budget, no worries, I found this excellent Athens airport accommodation that really has an extremely good price!

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FAQs about where to stay in Athens

Conclusion

In this very useful article, I told you everything you need to know about the best neighborhoods and hotels to stay in the city for ALL types of travelers. Rest assured as all the options I am recommending above have excellent reviews and facilities!

To make things easier for you, here are my top picks from all the hotels in the post, but you have to be quick and book in advance as many travelers visit the city all year long!

• King George Hotel Athens – if you want to experience the feel of the fantastic Greek Islands in a luxurious way, this is the best option for you!
• Arcade Hotel – this is my recommendation if you want to live the whole Athens experience plus have a little shopping spree during your vacations!

So I hope you have already found the perfect hotel for your stay in Athens in the article above! If yes, then I wish you a great vacation! If you have any questions, please don’t hesitate and drop them in the comments below!

Happy travels,

Romina

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