Where to Stay in Athens 🇬🇷: Guide to the Best Neighborhoods & Hotels

Updated on October 5, 2024
by Alex Miller

I’ve written a comprehensive guide to the best places to stay in Athens to help you choose the perfect place to suit your travels.

Our Pick of the Best Hotels in Athens 🔥

Planning a trip to Athens and wondering where to stay in Athens? In this review you will find detailed information on where to stay in Athens, which are the best neighborhoods to stay in Athens and some great hotel recommendations in each neighborhood.

Athens is a sprawling metropolis with many luxury hotels, boutiques, etc. Choosing a hotel in Athens comes down to choosing the best neighborhood to stay in depending on what you want to do in the city.

In this post, I’ll break down the best neighborhoods in Athens by parts of the city and give links to proven hotels.

Quick Guide to the Best Areas to Stay in Athens 📋

1. Plaka – Prime Location near Acropolis 🏛

🌄 Scenic locale: At the foot of the Acropolis lies the vibrant Plaka neighborhood. As one of the oldest residential areas in Athens, Plaka gives visitors a taste of traditional Greek life combined with an energetic modern ambience.

🏛 Nearby landmarks: The location provides easy access to major city attractions. Many visitors begin their day by climbing up to the Acropolis before returning to Plaka to refuel and continue exploring. The Ancient Agora, or marketplace, where Socrates and other great thinkers once strolled and debated philosophy, borders Plaka to the west.

🔝 Top things to do in Plaka:

  • Browse through colorful displays of olive oils, delicate loukoumi candya and leather goods
  • Wander through landmarks like the Tower of the Winds and the Choragic Monument of Lysicrates
  • Stop at one of the outdoor cafés or restaurants to enjoy moussaka, fresh Greek salad, or souvlaki

Also visit Byzantine-era churches and monasteries full of ornate icons, frescoes, and intricate architecture

🎒 Year-round charm: While it can get crowded during the summer months, the neighborhood remains lively year-round. Tree-lined walkways provide shade and benches offer the perfect perch to pause and people-watch.

Overall, I recommend the center of Athens to tourists to stay here for a few days.

All hotels in Plaka →

Where to stay in Plaka?

Expensive Hotels:

  • 101 Adrianou Apartments – elegant apartments in a historic building with panoramic views of the Acropolis.
  • Plaka Heart – chic apartments with modern design and views of Syntagma Square.

Medium price category:

  • Nikis Penthouse – a luxurious penthouse with stunning views of the Acropolis and Saronikos Bay.
  • Plato's Square Apartments – spacious apartments near Plato’s Square, great value for money.
  • ROH Suites – elegant suites in a neoclassical mansion overlooking Likavit.

Budget Hotels:

  • IPELHOME – cozy apartments in a historic building with authentic Greek charm.
  • Phaedra Hotel – small hotel with friendly staff and simple rooms at a reasonable price.
  • Karma Athens – a hostel with basic facilities for young people and budget travelers.

2. Syntagma – Best Place to Stay in Athens for the First Time 👀

📍 Central hub: Syntagma is one of the most popular and bustling neighborhoods for visitors to experience in Athens. Centered around Syntagma Square and bordered by major attractions like the Old Royal Palace and National Garden this district places you within walking distance of many top sights.

⏰ Watching guards: Syntagma’s main focal point is its namesake Syntagma Square, considered the central square of modern Athens. Here you can watch the ceremonial changing of the guard at the Tomb of the Unknown Soldier or snap photos of the stately Parliament Building across the way.

🚶‍♂️ On foot: Getting around Syntagma is easy with multiple metro lines and bus routes converging here. Since most attractions are walkable once in the area, relying on your own two feet is common.

🏨 Luxury stays: As one of the ritziest districts in Athens, Syntagma also offers high-end hotels and apartments for travelers who value convenience and centrality during their Greek getaway.

All hotels in Syntagma →

Where to stay in Syntagma?

Expensive Hotels:

  • King George – historic luxury hotel with elegant interior design and panoramic views of the Acropolis.
  • Hotel Grande Bretagne – a luxury hotel at the foot of the Acropolis, offering a high level of service and fine cuisine.
  • NJV Athens Plaza – modern boutique hotel with chic interiors and panoramic views of the city.

Medium price category:

Budget Hotels:

  • Pan Hotel – a simple and inexpensive hotel with basic amenities, ideal for budget travelers.
  • G&W Luxury Rooms – the hotel offers rooms with amenities at a reasonable price in the center of Athens.
  • Syntagma private sweet rooms – apartments with a homely atmosphere and affordable prices in a convenient location.

3. Psyri & Monastiraki – Where to Stay in Athens for Nightlife 🍸

🌃 Nightlife central: The energetic Psyri and historic Monastiraki districts are two must-see neighborhoods for first-time visitors. Psyri is located just north of popular Monastiraki, making it easy to explore both in one day.

Some top attractions not to miss nearby are:

  • The Roman Agora and Tower of the Winds – a 5 minute walk
  • Hadrian’s Library – centrally located in Monastiraki
  • Old Acropolis Museum and Ancient Acropolis – 15 to 20 minute walk

With two metro stations servicing the neighborhoods, the Athens Metro makes navigating the city simple.

🛍️ Trendy: Psyri has emerged as one of Athens’s most stylish and modern neighborhoods. Once home to workshops and cottage industries, today Psyri is known for its thrilling nightlife, trendy restaurants, and quirky boutique shops. Be sure to pop into funky bars like A for Athens for stunning Acropolis views from their rooftop patio.

The Roman Agora
The Roman Agora
The Roman Agora
The Roman Agora
Hadrian’s Library
Hadrian’s Library
Old Acropolis Museum
Old Acropolis Museum

🎶 Street performers: In contrast, Monastiraki has an old-world feel thanks to its proximity to the ancient Agora and medieval buildings clustered around Monastiraki Square. Watch street performers and musicians in the plaza or peruse the flea market’s tapestry of vendor stalls selling souvenirs and leather goods. The neighborhood also boasts many tavernas, cafés and shops, especially along the main drags of Ifaistou Street and Adrianou Street.

All hotels in Psyri →

Where to stay in Psyri?

Expensive Hotels:

  • Urban Tales – stylish apartments in a neoclassical 19th century building with modern interior design and excellent location in the heart of Athens.
  • Furla Apartments – elegant spacious premium apartments with panoramic views of the Acropolis, located in a quiet neighborhood close to major attractions.
  • Athens Lodge Boutique Hotel – a chic small hotel with luxurious rooms, spa and restaurant overlooking the Acropolis.

Medium price range:

  • Erst Guest House – guest house with comfortable rooms, terrace and shared kitchen, conveniently located close to the metro and major attractions.
  • The Frogs Guest House – a cozy guest house in a 19th century neoclassical mansion with classic decor, a shared garden and a terrace.
  • Owls Nest – a charming small hotel with vintage furniture and artwork in the interiors, located in a quiet alleyway near Monastiraki Square.

Budget Hotels:

  • Athens Hub Hostel – a popular hostel with shared kitchens and living rooms, offers a variety of tours and activities for guests.
  • Pella Inn Hostel – simple and inexpensive hostel with clean rooms, located close to the metro station and major attractions.
  • athensotel – small hotel with basic amenities at an affordable price, conveniently located in the city center.

4. Thissio – Staying for Athens for Beatiful Views 📸

Nestled on a hill northwest of the famous Acropolis, Thissio is one of Athens’ most picturesque and pedestrian-friendly neighborhoods.

🚶‍♂️ Walkable: You can easily walk to Thissio from the Acropolis metro station or take the metro directly to Thissio station. The small winding streets of Thissio located under the Acropolis hill are best explored on foot. From syntagma square, it’s less than 30 minutes walk through picturesque Plaka to get to Thissio.

🔥 Here are some of the top attractions of Thissio not to miss:

  • The pedestrianized Apostolou Pavlou street along the Agora with street food and souvenirs
  • The Temple of Hephaestus in Ancient Agora, the best-preserved Greek temple
  • The smaller hill of Philopappou with the iconic Philopappou Monument

Don’s miss the Pnyx Hill, birthplace of democracy and where public assemblies were held

🍽️ Dining hotspot: Thissiohas excellent dining options for all budgets. Stroll along Apostolou Pavlou street to find Greek tavernas or try Psirri neighborhood next door for stylish bars and mezedopolia. Come night-time, live music stages in Thisio Square create a lively atmosphere.

All in all, Thissio is a neighborhood full of history, culture and beauty, making it a must-see for anyone traveling to Athens.

All hotels in Thissio →

Where to stay in Thissio?

Expensive Hotels:

Medium price range:

5. Koukaki – Best Area in Athens for Local Vibe 🌟

🌿 Local charm: Despite its prime location just south of Athens’ most iconic site, Koukaki retains a relaxed local vibe with quaint streets, cafés, restaurants, and shops appealing to both tourists and residents.

🏛️ Ancient views: Though smaller in size, Koukaki offers excellent proximity and walkability to top attractions like the Acropolis and Plaka. From many spots in Koukaki, one can glance up and enjoy excellent views of the Parthenon atop the Acropolis.

🎨 Artsy area: This part of town is not just for archaeology and history buffs: the modern National Museum of Contemporary Art (Leoforos Kallirois Amvrosiou Frantzi) is just around the corner, as is the Ilias Lalaounis Jewelry Museum, designed by the famous Greek jeweler.

🚊 Well-connected: Transportation around Koukaki is convenient with various bus lines and the Syngrou-Fix Metro station connecting easily to other districts.

The neighborhood also provides a quieter atmosphere compared to busier areas for resting between sightseeing adventures.

All hotels in Koukaki →

Where to stay in Koukaki?

Expensive hotels:

Medium price category:

Budget Hotels:

6. Kolonaki – Best Neighborhood in Athens for Luxury & Shopping 👛

💡 Trendy hotspot: Nestled at the base of Lycabettus Hill in the very heart of Athens lies Kolonaki, widely considered the most exclusive and fashionable neighborhood in Greece’s sprawling capital.

🌳 Chic streets: Tree-lined streets bursting with cafes and boutiques snake up the hillside, culminating in Lycabettus Hill which overlooks the entire city. Simply exit at the eponymous Kolonaki Station in the middle of the district to begin your exploration.

🔝 Top Sights in Kolonaki:

  • Byzantine and Christian Museum – housing stunning icons and artifacts
  • Benaki Museum of Greek Culture – spanning 5,000 years of Greek history
  • Lycabettus Hill Funicular – ride to the top for panoramic views
Byzantine and Christian Museum
Byzantine and Christian Museum
Byzantine and Christian Museum
Byzantine and Christian Museum
Byzantine and Christian Museum
Byzantine and Christian Museum
Benaki Museum of Greek Culture
Benaki Museum of Greek Culture
Benaki Museum of Greek Culture
Benaki Museum of Greek Culture

☕️ Lively vibes: Kolonaki thrums with energy day and night. Sip iced coffee on the patio of one of the many cafes lining pedestrianized streets. Peruse high-end international boutiques like Prada, Armani and Louis Vuitton, or support local Greek designers in the tiny shops dotting the hillside.

Kolonaki is a great place to live in Athens if you are looking for a quiet, safe place to live, but still close to restaurants, shopping, and attractions.

All hotels in Kolonaki →

Where to stay in Kolonaki?

Expensive Hotels:

  • COCO-MAT Athens Jumelle – an elegant premium boutique hotel with exquisite designer interiors and panoramic views of the Acropolis.
  • Academias Hotel, Autograph Collection – a luxury hotel in a neoclassical mansion with excellent service and a gourmet Greek restaurant overlooking Lykavit.
  • Mandra Living – chic apartments in the heart of Kolonaki with designer furnishings and all the amenities for a comfortable stay.

Medium price category:

  • Denise Luxury Apartment – spacious luxury apartments near Syntagma Square, with panoramic views and a high level of comfort.
  • City Vibes Kolonaki – a cozy boutique hotel with minimalistic room design and a great location in the heart of Kolonaki.
  • Parliament Place – a comfortable hotel in a neoclassical mansion with a view of the Parliament and excellent value for money.

7. Ilisia – Quiet Atmosphere near the City Center 🕊

The Ilisia neighborhood is about 3 km from Acropolis and Kolonaki.

🚏 Well-connected: Getting around Ilisia and the surrounding attractions is easy thanks to the neighborhood’s proximity to two metro stations – Megaro Mousikis and Evangelismos. From Megaro Mousikis, it’s a short walk north to scenic spots like the National Garden, Zappeion Hall, and the Panathenaic Stadium.

🍴 When hunger strikes, you have some excellent options in Ilisia or nearby:

  • Ethnik is beloved for its moussaka, pastitsio, and other Greek comfort foods.
  • Oikeio serves beautifully presented modern Mediterranean sharing plates.
  • Drink aromatic cold brew coffee at The Coffee Dictatorship’s airy cafés.

💙 By day or night, Ilisia’s laidback ambience comes as a welcome break from bustling downtown Athens while letting you easily access top attractions.

All hotels in Ilisia →

Where to stay in Ilisia?

Luxury hotels:

  • Crowne Plaza – a modern premium hotel from the well-known IHG chain with luxurious rooms, restaurant, pool and excellent location in the center of Athens, close to Syntagma Square.
  • Airotel Stratos Vassilikos Hotel – a stylish designer hotel with panoramic views of the Acropolis, located on the Philopappou Hill, offers guests luxurious rooms overlooking the city.
  • Hestia – elegant apartments in a 19th century historic building with high-class service and an individual approach.

Mid-range hotels:

  • Holiday Suites – modern spacious apartments with all amenities in the center of Athens, close to Pedion Areos Park, perfect for families.
  • Ilisia Hotel Athens – a cozy hotel with friendly staff and classic Greek hospitality, located in a quiet residential area near the city center.
  • Golden Age Athens Hotel – a comfortable hotel in a neoclassical building with polite staff, a good choice for reasonable money.

Budget hotels:

  • City Center Apt. on a Traffic Free Street – spacious apartments in the center of Athens at an affordable price, the perfect option for travelers on a limited budget.
  • Athens Wooden Studio – a cozy wooden studio with basic amenities and a homely atmosphere, suitable for budget accommodation in the Plaka area.

8. Omonia – Lively Nightlife (Not the Safest) 💃🏻

🛍️ Shopper’s paradise: Omonia Square lies at the area’s heart, a constant swirl of activity day and night. Surrounding streets teem with shops and stalls selling everything from electronics to local handicrafts.

Omonia
Omonia
Omonia
Omonia
Omonia
Omonia
Omonia
Omonia

🧥 Fashion central: Boutique shops near the National Archaeological Museum display the latest fashions and trends. And the popular Athinas pedestrian street offers a cornucopia of fresh produce and Greek delicacies to sample.

🌄 Scenic views: For magnificent city views, visitors can ride the Omonia metro to the Acropolis station and stroll the beautifully illuminated archaeological sites.

🏚️ Fallen from grace: Omonia Square and the surrounding neighborhood have been popular with tourists in the past, but have faced some challenges over time, including economic hardship and security issues that have affected their reputation.

In recent years, Athens authorities have made significant efforts to restore and revitalize the area, including rebuilding the square and improving security.

All hotels in Omonia →

Best hotels in Omonia

Expensive Hotels:

  • Athens Tiare by Mage Hotels – a fashionable neoclassical 4-star hotel with exquisite design and a rooftop restaurant overlooking the Acropolis.
  • Grecotel Pallas Athena – elegant 5-star hotel in the heart of Athens with a full spa and a terrace overlooking Lycavit.
  • Melia Athens – a 4-star hotel with a panoramic rooftop pool and restaurants overlooking the Acropolis.

Medium price range:

  • Dave Red Athens – modern designer hotel a 10-minute walk from the central Omonia Square.
  • Brown Acropol – a stylish boutique hotel with a cozy atmosphere near Omonia metro station.
  • International Atene hotel – a comfortable hotel 5 minutes from Omonia Square, offers good value for money.

Budget hotels:

  • Parnon Hotel – economical hotel with friendly staff and central location.
  • New Amaryllis Hotel – a simple and inexpensive hotel with basic amenities near Omonia metro station.
  • Elikon – a small budget hotel with an authentic atmosphere in a historic building.

9. Port of Piraeus – for those going to the Islands ⛴

Located just 6 miles southwest of central Athens, the Port of Piraeus serves as the lively gateway to the Greek islands for visitors and locals alike.

⚓️ Bustling port: Piraeus has been the bustling port of Athens since ancient times, and the energetic harbor remains the biggest passenger port in Europe today. The port is conveniently located on metro and suburban rail lines, making it easy to access from downtown Athens in under 30 minutes.

🔝 Top things for tourists to do in Piraeus:

  • Wander along Akti Miaouli, the harbor-front pedestrian street
  • Visit the fascinating Archaeological Museum of Piraeus right on the harbor, which exhibits ancient artifacts found in the port

⛴️ Or take a day cruise to enjoy some nearby islands like beautiful Aegina, beachy Angistri, or romantic Poros.

I definitely recommend including Piraeus in your Athens itinerary, but it’s better to choose a hotel in the city center and arrange transportation to the ferry terminal.

All hotels in Piraeus →

Where to stay in Port of Piraeus?

Expensive Hotels:

Medium price category:

Budget Hotels:

  • Argo Hotel – simple and inexpensive hotel near the harbor, offers basic amenities for a comfortable stay.
  • Filon – a modest hotel with economical rooms for budget travelers.
  • Achillion Hotel – a cozy traditional style hotel, known for its hospitality and comfortable rooms.

10. Southern suburbs: Voula, Vouliagemeni, Glyfada – Staying in the Athens Riviera 🏄🏻‍♀️

🚉 Metro access: Just south of central Athens lie three coastal suburbs – Voula, Vouliagmeni, and Glyfada, offering a relaxed ambiance, high-end shopping, and gorgeous beaches and resorts.

❔ To reach these areas, hop on Line 2 of the Athens Metro from Syntagma Square. After half an hour the train will reach Elliniko stop, entry point to Glyfada’s glamorous shopping scene and beaches like Asteria.

💎 Glyfada has everything for indulging visitors. Highlights include:

  • Glyfada Shopping Center with major brands and boutiques; open-air centers like The Mall
  • Stroll Metaxa Street‘s sidewalk cafés, restaurants, and bars

🌞 You can also disembark at Argyroupoli for Vouliagmeni and its chic beach clubs. Don’t miss:

  • Vouliagmeni Lake for swimming in mineral-rich pools
  • Astir Beach‘s private white sand and water sports rentals

🕊 Or ride farther to Voula, an upscale hub with less crowds. Highlights include:

  • Exclusive Asteria Beach with lounge chairs and umbrellas
  • Waterfront tavernas serving fresh seafood

To get back to the city from the southern suburbs, you can take the streetcar from Glyfada or the metro from Elliniko.

All hotels in Vouliagmeni →

Where to stay in southern suburbs?

Luxury Hotels:

  • Divani Apollon Palace & Thalasso – a premium luxury beach resort with its own thalasso center and panoramic views of the bay.
  • The Margi – an elegant small boutique hotel with a high level of service and magnificent views of the Aegean Sea.
  • Somewhere Vouliagmeni – a cozy hotel in a picturesque neoclassical mansion with comfortable rooms and proximity to the waterfront.

Medium price category:

  • Vouliagmeni Suites – modern apartment complex with spacious studios and suites, outdoor pool and bay views.
  • Athenian Riviera Hotel& Suites – a budget hotel with good value for money, located close to the waterfront.
  • Azur Hotel – a compact economy hotel with clean rooms at a reasonable price within walking distance of the beach.

Budget Hotels:

11. Kifisia – Northern Suburbs 🏞

🌳 Garden suburb: Nestled at the base of Mount Pentelicus, just north of central Athens, lies the charming neighborhood of Kifisia. Known as the “garden suburb” for its tree-lined streets and beautiful villas, Kifisia offers a pleasant contrast from the busy city center.

Kifisia
Kifisia
Kifisia
Kifisia
Kifisia
Kifisia
Kifisia
Kifisia

🚊 Well-connected: Kifisia is an easy 25-minute drive or 40-minute metro ride from downtown Athens. The metro’s blue line ends in Kifisia, making it convenient to reach from any part of the city.

🏞 Central park: Be sure to visit the park in downtown Kifissia, the heart of the neighborhood, and don’t miss the outdoor sculpture exhibition. Learn about the centuries-old history of Kifissia at the small but fascinating Kifissia Museum.

The weather tends to be milder here, so it’s the perfect place for a summer getaway away from the heat of downtown.

All hotels in Kifisia →

Where to stay in Kifisia?

Expensive Hotels:

  • Theoxenia Palace – a luxurious neoclassical style hotel with a gourmet restaurant and spa.
  • Semiramis – modern designer hotel with panoramic views of the city and excellent service.
  • SAY Hotel – stylish boutique hotel with cozy rooms and a good location near the center.

Medium price category:

  • The Twentyone – a comfortable eco-style hotel with excellent leisure and work facilities.
  • Coco-Mat Hotel Nafsika – small cozy Greek style hotel at an affordable price.
  • Dekelia Hotel – a simple and inexpensive hotel with basic amenities for a comfortable vacation.

Budget Hotels:

  • Hotel Des Roses – a modest family-run hotel with warm hospitality and authentic atmosphere.
  • Lida Hotel – small cozy hotel at a reasonable price with friendly staff.

What is the Best Time to Visit Athens? 🌄

Spring and early fall tend to be the best times to visit Athens. The weather is milder, with temperatures typically ranging from the mid 50s to low 80s Fahrenheit. More importantly, these shoulder seasons lack the intense crowds that descend on Athens in the peak summer months.

If you visit during late March, April, or May, you’ll get to experience the city with fewer tourists, lower prices, and blooming wildflowers that add vibrant pops of color against Athens’ white buildings and monuments. September through early November also bring fewer crowds, pleasant weather, the potential to catch some late season swimming, and beautiful autumn scenery.

While December to February make sightseeing and tapsi dining enjoyable in Athens’ cool, wintry weather, some attractions may have reduced hours or closures.

Where to Stay in the City of Athens on a Budget? 💸

Discover Athens without breaking the bank at these top three budget-friendly havens:

1. Athens Backpackers 🏛: Wake up to the Acropolis in this Plaka gem. More than a hostel, it’s an Athenian experience. Swap stories in the rooftop garden – budget-friendly with a touch of Greek hospitality.

2. Tempi Hotel 🔮: Near Syntagma Square, Tempi Hotel nails affordability and comfort. Cozy rooms and a warm Greek welcome put you at the crossroads of history and local delights.

3. Athens Center Square Hotel 🏩: Sophistication on a budget in Monastiraki. Contemporary design, a rooftop terrace with Athens’ panorama, and a stroll to the Parthenon – culture without emptying your wallet.

In Athens, these budget stays not only save you euros but offer an immersive, affordable slice of Greek life. Happy exploring!

Best Neighborhoods & Hotels in Athens on a Map 🗺

Other Questions about Visiting Athens ❔

What is the safest neighborhood to stay in Athens?

Kolonaki and Kifisia are excellent choices. Kolonaki offers a vibrant atmosphere with upscale shops and cafes, while Kifisia provides a more suburban feel. Both neighborhoods boast low crime rates and are popular among tourists for their safety.

Is Athens a walkable city?

Absolutely! Athens is very pedestrian-friendly, especially in the historic center. You can easily explore iconic sites like the Acropolis, Plaka, and Monastiraki on foot. The narrow streets are filled with charming shops and cafes, making walking a delightful way to absorb the city’s culture.

How many days in Athens do you need?

To experience the essence of Athens, plan on spending at least 3 to 4 days. This timeframe allows you to visit major landmarks, such as the Acropolis and the National Archaeological Museum, without feeling rushed. Additionally, you’ll have time to savor local cuisine, wander through charming neighborhoods, and immerse yourself in the city’s rich history and vibrant atmosphere.

Where to avoid staying in Athens?

While Athens is generally safe, some areas may be less appealing to tourists due to higher traffic, noise, or fewer attractions. Omonia Square and its immediate surroundings are often considered less desirable for accommodation. This central area has a bustling nightlife, but it might not offer the peaceful experience some travelers seek.

Where to stay in Athens for one night?

If you have just one night in Athens, consider staying in the Plaka neighborhood. This historic area, nestled at the base of the Acropolis, provides a charming backdrop for a short stay.