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From trendy hotels in Plaka to luxury stays in Syntagma Square, to boutique hotels and chic vacation rentals in Koukaki, these are the best areas to stay in Athens. I’ve been to Athens a handful of times, and have absolutely loved it each visit. With history just about everywhere you look, incredible fresh food, and a vibrancy that’s irresistible, Athens is a special city. The hotels in Athens, Greece, are fabulous too, with plenty of great properties to choose from.

In this guide, I’m breaking down the best location to stay in Athens — it all comes down to whether it’s a first-time trip and how long you’re visiting for. I’ve stayed in a few different neighborhoods over the years, including a week-long stay in Koukaki and an overnight stay closer to the airport, plus an upscale stay on Syntagma Square.

In my opinion, the good locations to base yourself out of all sit within roughly 1.5km of the Acropolis, but there are more factors to consider (like how you’re arriving and how you’ll spend your evenings). My guide outlines how to choose between Plaka, Koukaki, and Monastiraki, which I’d say comes down to trip length and how you arrive. Syntagma is great for grand hotel-style luxury, and Kolonaki I love for a polished repeat visit. Read on to learn more about the best place to stay, including tested hotels, noise notes, and walking distances to keep in mind.

Short on Time? Here’s My Quick Guide to Where to Stay in Athens:

For a first trip, I’d stay in Plaka for the most central base. For a longer, quieter stay, I’d stay in Koukaki and Makrygianni. For a more modern or upscale stay, the best hotels in the city are in Kolonaki and around Syntagma Square.

  1. Plaka, best for first-timers
    Hotels: The Dolli, A77 Suites, an SLH Hotel, Electra Palace Athens, NEW Hotel, Ergon House
    Airbnbs: Flagship Loft with 1 Bedroom and Private Terrace, Chic 1 Bedroom Home with Terrace, 1 Bedroom Apartment with Acropolis View
  2. Koukaki and Makrygianni, best for a quiet stay near the Acropolis
    Hotels: Anthology of Athens, an LHW Hotel, Coco-Mat Athens BC, Neoma, Herodion Hotel
    Airbnbs: 2 Bedroom House with Garden (Where We Stayed), Stunning Modern 2 Bedroom House with Acropolis View, 1 Bedroom With Terrace and Acropolis View
  3. Syntagma Square and Kolonaki, best for luxury hotels and families
    Hotels: Hotel Grande Bretagne, King George, a Luxury Collection Hotel, Shila, Gatsby Hotel, Monsieur Didot
    Airbnbs: Modern 2 Bedroom Flat in Kolonaki, Luxury 2 Bedroom Flat with Terrace, Loft with Skyline View
  4. Monastiraki and Psirri, best for nightlife
    Hotels: Perianth Hotel, Mona Athens, The Foundry Suites Athens
    Airbnbs: Charming Casa L’On Historic 2 Bedroom Flat, Modern Studio Loft with Acropolis View, Historic 2 Bedroom Condo with Acropolis View

Helpful Guides to Plan Your Trip

If you’re planning a trip to Greece, don’t miss my guide to the best things to do in Athens and guides to Milos (where to stay, things to do), Santorini, Mykonos, and Naxos.

Where to Stay in Athens: Best Areas and Hotels for First-Timers

Inside This Article

Athens Neighborhood Comparison and Map

Athens Neighborhoods at a Glance

AreaBest ForVibeWhere I’d Stay
PlakaFirst-timers and shorter staysHistoric charm, lively streets and some late-night noiseAirbnb: Flagship Loft with 1 Bedroom and Private Terrace
Hotel: The Dolli
Koukaki and MakrygianniQuieter stays, families and 3 nights or moreResidential and laid-back, with tavernas, wine bars and cafesAirbnb: 2 Bedroom House with Garden (Where We Stayed)
Hotel: Neoma
Syntagma Square and KolonakiLuxury hotels and families, with Kolonaki for repeat visitsBusy and cosmopolitan in Syntagma, quieter and polished in KolonakiAirbnb: Modern 2 Bedroom Flat in Kolonaki
Hotel: Hotel Grande Bretagne
Monastiraki and PsirriNightlife and a one-night stay before a ferryLively and high-energy, with street noise past midnightAirbnb: Charming Casa L’On Historic 2 Bedroom Flat
Hotel: Perianth Hotel
PiraeusAn overnight stay before an early ferryPort atmosphere, with a less obvious port feel in Kastella or MikrolimanoHotel: Mural Piraeus Hotel
Athens AirportLate arrivals, early flights and short layoversA convenient hotel stopover between flightsHotel: Sofitel Athens Airport (Where I Stayed)
Athens RivieraBeach time, repeat visits or an add-on after the cityCoastal, with beaches and resort staysHotel: Four Seasons Astir Palace Hotel

Map of the Best Areas to Stay in Athens

If you prefer the interactive version, you can open the full Athens neighborhood map here.

Map of central Athens highlighting Plaka in orange, Koukaki and Makrygianni in green, Syntagma and Kolonaki in blue, and Monastiraki and Psirri in red.
Neighborhood map of Athens’ best areas to stay, color-coded by district.
  1. Plaka (ORANGE)
  2. Koukaki and Makrygianni (GREEN)
  3. Syntagma Square and Kolonaki (BLUE)
  4. Monastiraki and Psirri (RED)

How to Choose Where to Stay in Athens

Pedestrian lane lined with colorful homes in Plaka
Pedestrian-Only Zones in Plaka

When it comes to deciding just where to stay, my framework for deciding is based on how long you will stay and how much you plan to do. If it’s simply a quick night in the city to see the Acropolis, then Plaka and Koukaki work well. Want to stay longer and explore further? Then there are more options to consider, like Koukaki and beyond.

Choose by Length of Stay

Tree-lined Athens street with sidewalk cafés and pedestrians
Lots of Streets in Athens Look Like This

Where I’d Stay for a Family Getaway with Kids

If you’re planning to visit with kids and have lots of luggage and strollers, you really want to pick a hotel or accommodation that allows you to drive right up to it. A lot of the hotels in Plaka are in pedestrian zones, meaning you will have to walk the last portion of it. I’d suggest picking a hotel in Syntagma or nearby that taxis can drive right to, and you’ll be close to the National Garden (home to lots of kids’ parks). The other area worth considering for a longer stay for a more residential feel is Koukaki and Makrygianni.

Hotel or Apartment in Central Athens?

For stays under two nights in Athens, a hotel is almost always a better choice. You’ll likely want to explore the city’s restaurants, and it’s typically the easiest option, since you’ll have the services of a hotel. 

If you’re staying for longer or visiting with family, it’s worth considering an apartment. But it’s important to know that Greece is tightening rules for short stays, so make sure the vacation rental is officially registered and following Greece’s current rules to help prevent any issues. Keep in mind that many apartments in older buildings don’t have elevators, and confirm that your rental’s air conditioning meets your needs.

Where I’d Skip on a First Visit for Stays

  • Piraeus — This is the port area of Athens, so it’s not super central for visiting Athens. I’d just recommend staying here if you have a ferry leaving before 8 AM the next morning. Otherwise, central Athens is probably your best option.
  • Riviera — The Riviera is gorgeous but takes quite a bit of time to get into central Athens. I’d skip it for your first visit, unless it’s an add-on at the end of your trip or you want specifically beach time with a day trip into Athens.
  • Omonia, Metaxourgeio, and the Vathi/Victoria Square — These areas are considered less safe or at least less comfortable at night. I’d suggest avoiding these areas, especially when Koukaki and Psirri only cost a bit more generally.

Plaka: Best for First-Timers

If it’s your first time visiting Athens, I’d recommend staying in Plaka. It’s a great part of the city for a shorter stay especially (think a one- to three-night visit). You’ll get the romantic charm of the city and convenient access to the city’s major sites. It’s also the oldest area of Athens, with gorgeous cobblestone streets, historic buildings, and pedestrian-friendly roads that are perfect for wandering.

There are a few downsides to be aware of when staying in Plaka. Namely, keep in mind that it’s popular, with higher rates and tourist-facing restaurants that can sometimes be more expensive. Cobblestone streets are also more difficult to navigate with heavy, oversized luggage, or for anyone with mobility issues.

What Staying in Plaka Is Actually Like

Staying in Plaka is perfect if you’re looking for a charming, old-world-style Athens. It’s vibrant, walkable, and I’d say a fantastic place to get introduced to the city. Keep in mind that Lower Plaka can get busier and noisier from midday to the afternoon, with plenty of people exploring. Evenings can also be noisier, with tavernas staying open late into the evening (it’s not uncommon for people to relax outdoors with drinks until 1 or 2 AM).

Travel Tip: If you book a stay in Plaka, keep in mind that some streets are pedestrian-only. Depending on where your hotel is located, you may have to walk the final minutes with your luggage. Confirm the closest taxi drop-off point with your hotel.

Upper Plaka vs. Lower Plaka

Plaka is separated into Upper Plaka and Lower Plaka by Adrianou Street, and each has its own character. Lower Plaka is busier, but is flatter and much easier for travelers with luggage to navigate. Upper Plaka is quieter, more residential, and very atmospheric. But there are steep hills and stairs that can be difficult with luggage. In particular, the Plaka Stairs and the charming village of Anafiotika are two places I really wouldn’t recommend navigating with luggage. If you’re interested in staying in Plaka, I’d recommend booking in Lower Plaka for much more convenience.

Where to Stay in Plaka

Luxury Hotels
  1. The Dolli — Of the modern luxe hotels, The Dolli for me feels the most upscale and worth it because its location is perfect and the views from the rooftop pool are beyond gorgeous. It’s a very splurge hotel, but this is the one I’d choose first for both design and the experience on property. It’s good to know this hotel sits right on the edge of Plaka into Monastiraki.
  2. A77 Suites, an SLH Hotel — In a restored 19th-century building in Plaka, this hotel has gorgeous suites and a boutique, luxurious feel. Just a short walk to the Acropolis and a fantastic location.
  3. Electra Palace Athens — Refined and elegant, with a rooftop pool and restaurant overlooking the Acropolis. The rooms are designed in a traditional neoclassical style, immersing you in the atmosphere of Athens.
  4. NEW Hotel — This boutique hotel has a strong design and art focus, with incredibly stylish rooms. NEW Hotel also has a Mediterranean restaurant, a spa with a hammam, and is near Syntagma Square, on the edge of Plaka.
Upscale Hotels
  1. Ergon House — This beautifully designed food-focused hotel is located right above a market with produce, fish, a deli, and more, making it an ideal stay if you want to dive into Greece’s food culture. Ergon House also has a rooftop bar with Acropolis views that’s open seasonally.
Airbnbs
  1. Flagship Loft with 1 Bedroom and Private Terrace
  2. Chic 1 Bedroom Home with Terrace
  3. 1 Bedroom Apartment with Acropolis View

Things to Do Near Plaka

  1. Visit the Acropolis — This is an undeniable must in Athens: the Acropolis and its Parthenon. The ancient monument dates back thousands of years and is one of the most iconic buildings of Greece. A UNESCO World Heritage site sitting on a hill in Athens, it’s hard to miss it.
  2. Explore Anafiotika — This charming residential neighborhood is known for having Cycladic-style architecture with white-washed walls, brightly colored doors and shutters, and a village feel. In Upper Plaka, it’s the perfect spot to wander for a few hours.
  3. Climb Mnisikleous Stairs — Also called the Plaka Stairs, this stepped street is lined with little cafes and tavernas, and leads up to Anafiotika.
  4. Visit Roman Agora and The Tower of the Winds — These historic monuments are definitely worth visiting in Athens. The Tower of the Winds was built around 100–50 B.C. with sundials and a weather vane, and the Roman Agora is the well-preserved commercial center of ancient Athens.
  5. Visit the Acropolis Museum — Not far from Plaka, this amazing museum has transparent glass floors that allow you to look into the ruins of ancient Athens below. The Parthenon Gallery was designed to echo the Parthenon itself and gives fascinating context to this ancient monument.

Koukaki and Makrygianni: Best for a Quiet Stay Near Acropolis

If you’re looking for a calm, quieter area to stay in Athens, I’d recommend Koukaki and Makrygianni, not far from the Acropolis Museum.  I’d say this is the best central area for stays of 3 nights or more. Since it’s so residential, it’s largely quiet after 11 pm (Syngrou Avenue can still be noisy at night), making it perfect if you want to escape the late-night bars and tavernas in Plaka. You’re also just 5 to 10 minutes on foot from the Acropolis Museum. These neighborhoods are also centrally connected by transit, served by both the Acropoli and Syngrou-Fix stations.

What Staying in Koukaki and Makrygianni Is Actually Like

Staying in Makrygianni and Koukaki is much quieter than other areas. You can expect a residential, laid-back feel with fewer tourists, while still being close to the Acropolis. It’s walkable and has tons of great tavernas, wine bars, and cafes. It doesn’t have that same historic feel as Plaka, but still has plenty of charm. It’s much easier for taxis to drop off in Koukaki and Makrygianni.

Red scooter parked outside a Makrygianni café
Streets of Makrygianni

Koukaki vs. Makrygianni

The neighborhoods of Koukaki and Makrygianni definitely blend together. Makrygianni is closer to the Acropolis Museum, with many hotels offering views of the Parthenon. Koukaki is even more residential and a bit trendier, with more modern-leaning restaurants, little bars, and a creative feel. If you’re a light sleeper, I’d recommend staying a couple of blocks away from the busy Syngrou Avenue, which can be noisy at night.

Where to Stay in Koukaki and Makrygianni

Luxury Hotels
  1. Anthology of Athens, an LHW Hotel (Makrygianni) — This luxurious boutique hotel has beautiful rooms. A rooftop restaurant overlooks the Parthenon, the Acropolis, and the Temple of Olympian Zeus with stunning panoramic views. 
  2. Coco-Mat Athens BC (Makrygianni) — This hotel has an ecological focus, with a farm-to-table restaurant and rooms with natural materials. In a central location, not far from the Acropolis.
Upscale Hotels
  1. Neoma (Koukaki) — With a modern, minimal design and only a handful of rooms, this is a contemporary and well-positioned stay in Koukaki.
Mid-Range Hotels
  1. Herodion Hotel (Koukaki) — A cozy and chic boutique hotel with 90 rooms, Herodion has a rooftop Greek restaurant with Acropolis views. An elegant option in Koukaki.
Airbnbs
  1. 2 Bedroom House with Garden (Where We Stayed)
  2. Stunning Modern 2 Bedroom House with Acropolis View
  3. 1 Bedroom With Terrace and Acropolis View
  4. 2 Bedroom Flat Across from Acropolis Museum

Things to Do Near Koukaki and Makrygianni

  1. Visit the Acropolis — It’s worth noting that the Acropolis is right beside Makrygianni, making what’s already a must-visit essential if you’re staying in the area. I’d absolutely recommend making your way to this famous monument, one of the most incredible relics of ancient Greece.
  2. See the Acropolis Museum — Also in Makrygianni, the Acropolis Museum is a spectacular and immersive way to learn about the Acropolis and ancient Greece. You’ll find sculptures, artifacts, and so much more to explore.
  3. Stroll Dionysiou Areopagitou Street — Walking along Dionysiou Areopagitou Street is a must to get a feel for the neighborhood. You’ll get views of the Acropolis, see incredible architecture, and wander past landmarks like the Acropolis Museum and the Theater of Dionysus.
  4. Get Coffee in a Book Store — One of my favorite spots, Little Tree Books and Coffee, is right by the Acropolis Museum. It’s the perfect place to stop for a coffee and to peruse the book selection before or after your visit.
  5. Climb Philopappos Hill — This is a great hike (or uphill walk) for incredible Parthenon views. It’s about a 15-20 minute walk and has some shade, but I’d recommend it in the mornings when it’s cooler.

Syntagma Square and Kolonaki: Best For Luxury Hotels and Families

Hellenic Parliament building against the Athens skyline
Syntagma Square from Above

For a luxurious stay in Athens, I’d recommend staying around Syntagma Square or Kolonaki. Syntagma is home to many of the city’s grand hotels, as well as the neoclassical Old Royal Palace and the lush National Garden. It’s not quite as atmospheric or charming after dark, but if an exceptional hotel is what you’re looking for, this is a great area to look into. You’ll be able to likely get a taxi right to your hotel door, so you can avoid carrying your luggage along the cobblestones, and you’re also near the metro to the airport.

Syntagma Square is right next to Kolonaki, an upscale residential neighborhood in Athens. I’d say Kolonaki is a fantastic area to stay for repeat visitors and couples, and perfect for travelers who prioritize boutiques, galleries, and polished restaurants over proximity to ancient sites. It’s perfect for travelers who’ve already explored the major ancient landmarks and are curious about basing themselves in a different (but still central) area of the city.

What Staying in Syntagma Square and Kolonaki Is Actually Like

Syntagma Square is a great place to stay for elegant hotels in a busier, cosmopolitan atmosphere. It’s very well connected to transit, but can sometimes be noisy. On the other hand, Kolonaki (just nearby!) is quieter, with plenty of boutiques, yet is quite modern. Both are pricier areas to stay in Athens, often with restaurants costing more than others only a short distance away.

Where to Stay in Syntagma Square and Kolonaki

Hotel Grande Bretagne terrace overlooking the Hellenic Parliament
Views from the Hotel Grande Bretagne
Luxury Hotels
  1. Hotel Grande Bretagne (Syntagma Square) — In a 19th-century landmark building, Grande Bretagne is historic and incredibly elegant. It’s famous for its opulent Alexander’s Cigar Lounge bar, a stunning rooftop pool, and a whole suite of luxury amenities.
  2. King George, a Luxury Collection Hotel (Syntagma Square) — Another landmark building on Syntagma Square, the King George has 1930s architecture but a smaller, more boutique feel than the Grande Bretagne. Classic decor and Greek art round out the hotel’s experience, creating a refined atmosphere.
  3. Shila (Kolonaki) — A gorgeous design-forward stay in Kolonaki, Shila has only 6 rooms filled with art and antiques. It’s perfect if you love art and want something creative, with great service.
Upscale Hotels
  1. Gatsby Hotel (Syntagma Square) — This lively Athens hotel is inspired by the Jazz Age, with a Mediterranean restaurant on-site and a bar.
  2. Monsieur Didot (Kolonaki) — Set within a 19th-century mansion, this intimate boutique hotel has just 6 rooms, allowing for a quieter and more personalized hotel experience. More like a luxurious residence than a hotel, it’s named after type designer Firmin Didot.
Airbnbs
  1. Modern 2 Bedroom Flat in Kolonaki
  2. Luxury 2 Bedroom Flat with Terrace
  3. Loft with Skyline View

Things to Do Near Syntagma Square and Kolonaki

  1. Catch the Changing of the Guard at the Hellenic Parliament — Every hour, every day, the guard at the Hellenic Parliament changes in a captivating ceremony. There’s an extended change of the guard at 11 AM on Sunday, as well.
  2. Stroll the National Garden — For a break from the city atmosphere, the National Garden in Athens feels like a lush, tranquil escape. Beautiful, filled with trees, and perfect for a stroll.
  3. Climb Mount Lycabettus — As the highest point in central Athens, Mount Lycabettus offers incredible city views. It’s definitely quite the uphill hike, but there’s also a cable car for an easier and quicker journey to the top.
  4. Enjoy Kolonaki Square — Chic and lively, Kolonaki Square is a great place to order a coffee, sit on a terrace, and people-watch. There’s plenty of shopping, museums, and galleries just steps away. (Note: The Line 4 subway station under the square itself is currently undergoing a major excavation.)
  5. Visit the Benaki Museum — To get a historic perspective on Greece, the Benaki Museum takes you from prehistory to the 20th century in Greece for an overview. The space itself is beautiful, as the museum is housed in a neoclassical mansion.

Monastiraki and Psirri: Best for Nightlife

Historic church and shops in Athens' Monastiraki neighborhood
Central Monastiraki

For visitors looking to dive into Athens’ incredible nightlife, I’d recommend staying in Monastiraki or Psirri. Think cocktail bars, rooftop terraces, live music… there’s so much to explore. Monastiraki is the most convenient place to base yourself if you’re looking for nightlife. It’s also a great option if you’re staying in Athens for just a single night, since it easily connects to the airport and Piraeus.  Psirri is lively, bohemian, and charming, with plenty of trendy little spots to explore by night. It’s great if you want something trendy, local, and with a bit of a gritty feel.

What Staying in Monastiraki and Psirri Is Actually Like

You can expect a lively, high-energy atmosphere in Monastiraki and Psirri. And it won’t be a surprise for a nightlife-focused area, but you can expect street noise in the evenings and past midnight. I personally find this part of Athens very commercial, with a lot of big box stores and restaurants.

Why Monastiraki and Psirri Work for One Night Before A Ferry

If you’re staying in Athens for just one night before taking a ferry, I’d recommend staying in Monastiraki or Psirri. There’s direct metro access on Line 1 from Monastiraki to Piraeus, making it convenient for a super short stay. If you’re leaving early or have heavy luggage, it’s also straightforward to grab a taxi right to the port. There’s also quite a bit of luggage storage nearby.

Where to Stay in Monastiraki and Psirri

Luxury Hotels
  1. Perianth Hotel (Monastiraki) — With an Art Deco facade, terrazzo floors, and contemporary art along the walls, Perianth is a design-forward stay in Monastiraki. The hotel is centrally located, with a zen center on site.
Upscale Hotels
  1. Mona Athens (Psirri) — This stylish stay is in a converted 1950s factory, with a casual yet chic feel. With just 20 rooms, this boutique hotel also has a rooftop cocktail bar with Acropolis views.
  2. The Foundry Suites Athens (Psirri) — This creative boutique hotel has an industrial feel, with high ceilings and a residential feel. A rooftop garden features fantastic views of Athens.
Airbnbs
  1. Charming Casa L’On Historic 2 Bedroom Flat
  2. Modern Studio Loft with Acropolis View
  3. Historic 2 Bedroom Condo with Acropolis View

Things to Do Near Monastiraki and Psirri

  1. Enjoy Monastiraki Square — This square is a central spot in Athens, with gorgeous Acropolis views, markets, monuments, and bars.
  2. Go to a Local Rooftop Bar — There are so many incredible rooftop bars to check out in Athens, and these are great neighborhoods to find one! Relax after a day of sightseeing, and many of them have incredible views of the city.
  3. Stop in at Monastiraki Flea Market — A fun, atmospheric market to explore, with a huge range of stalls. You’ll find some more touristy souvenirs, but I’d especially recommend a visit on Sunday mornings, when there’s a big antique focus.
  4. Visit Hadrian’s Library — Dating back to the 2nd century, this ancient cultural complex is located in Monastiraki and is fascinating to visit.

Piraeus, Athens Airport, and the Athens Riviera: Special-Case Bases

Staying in Piraeus Before an Early Ferry

Piraeus marina with sailboats, waterfront buildings, and mountains
Piraeus Port

If you have an early morning ferry leaving Athens, I’d suggest staying in Piraeus. This is the primary port area just outside of Athens, so it’s the most convenient option if you have limited time in the morning. For a more pleasant atmosphere with a less obvious port feel, I’d recommend a hotel in Kastella or Mikrolimano.

Best Piraeus Hotels
  1. Mural Piraeus Hotel — A stylish boutique hotel just a few minutes from the port, this is a great option for a convenient stay. With an all-day coffee shop, it’s perfect for grabbing a quick bite before a morning ferry.
  2. Athenarum Portus Life & Style Hotel — This contemporary hotel is another convenient option and is just walking distance from the port. With a buffet breakfast and rooftop views, it’s ideal for a short stay.
  3. Mitsis N’U Piraeus Port — This hotel is in a heritage building with modern art, perfectly located for convenient access to the ferry. Rooms are comfortable and luxurious, with an on-site restaurant and bar.

Staying at an Airport Hotel for a Late Arrival or Early Flight

Sofitel Athens Airport lounge with curved gray sofas
Inside the Sofitel Athens Airport

I stayed at the Sofitel last time I was in Athens, and it was perfect for a 1-night layover after island hopping. If you have an early flight, it’s a luxurious option that maximizes convenience. It’s important to know that the drive from the airport to central Athens can be a jaunt when there’s traffic, taking around 30-40 minutes. When you have less than 24 hours between flights, I’d recommend an airport hotel as the most convenient option.

Best Athens Airport Hotels
  1. Sofitel Athens Airport (Where I Stayed) — I loved the Sofitel. It was comfortable and had a luxurious feel. There’s a rooftop restaurant that’s great for grabbing dinner before an early flight, and a spa and swimming pool that are perfect for unwinding in the midst of travel.
  2. Holiday Inn Athens Airport — This is a more affordable option than the Sofitel, with convenient access to the airport. There’s also a shuttle (I’d recommend confirming with staff beforehand) to help you get right to the airport for your flight.

Staying in the Athens Riviera

Astir Bay’s turquoise shoreline and beachfront resort
View of Astir

Especially for repeat visitors to Athens who are looking for something new, the Athens Riviera is definitely worth considering. Think gorgeous beaches, and only around 30 minutes to an hour to the center of Athens. There are plenty of great hotels, and it can be a good option to get a coastal feel if you don’t have time to go to the Greek islands.

Best Athens Riviera Hotels
  1. The Margi — A member of Small Luxury Hotels, The Margi has beautifully designed rooms and suites. The neighborhood has a great local feel, and the hotel has a farm-to-table restaurant and a stunning outdoor pool.
  2. Four Seasons Astir Palace Hotel — A massive yet luxurious beach resort, with pools, a spa, and a Michelin-starred restaurant. Perfect if you’re looking for a resort feel with stunning sea views.
  3. One&Only Aesthesis — About 30 minutes from central Athens, this beach resort has a Michelin Key and is set within a protected forest reserve. A luxurious stay.
  4. Ace Hotel & Swim Club — With the same contemporary, artsy aesthetic as the other Ace Hotel properties, this boutique hotel has two on-site restaurants and a pool.

What to Know About Staying in Athens

Bougainvillea-covered restaurant lane in Plaka
Corners of Anafiotika

What is the best area to stay in Athens for first-time visitors?

I’d recommend Plaka, Monastiraki, Koukaki, and Syntagma as premier choices for a first-time trip, especially for stays of at least 2-3 nights.

Is it better to stay in Plaka or Koukaki?

For a first-time or shorter stay, I’d recommend historic Plaka. For a longer stay or if this isn’t your first time in Athens, I’d suggest Koukaki, with a quieter and more local feel.

Should I stay in Piraeus the night before a ferry?

If your ferry is leaving at or before 8 AM, I’d recommend staying in Piraeus for more convenience. It could also be a good option if you have lots of luggage.

Which areas of Athens should tourists avoid staying in?

Tourists are typically recommended to avoid Omonia, Metaxourgeio, Exarcheia, Vathi Square, and Kolonos. I’d recommend searching the area you’d like to stay in and recent accommodation reviews to double-check that it’s a safe area.

Is it better to stay in Plaka or Monastiraki?

I’d say Plaka is best for old-world Athens charm, but Monastiraki is best for lively nightlife.

Which Athens neighborhood has the best Acropolis views from hotels?

Koukaki, Plaka, and Monastiraki are known for having some of the best Acropolis views from hotels, but it’s definitely worth checking to make sure your hotel or room has the views you’re looking for.

Is Monastiraki too noisy to sleep in?

Monastiraki can definitely be noisy, especially if you’re staying on the main square. Look into hotels with soundproofed rooms or consider one that isn’t facing the main square to help reduce noise.

How many nights should I spend in Athens?

I’d recommend spending around 2–3 nights in Athens. If you’re visiting the islands, I’d suggest spending a couple of nights at the beginning and a couple of nights at the end of your trip.

Where should families stay in Athens?

I’d recommend families stay in Koukaki or Makrygianni, which are more practical with a stroller than the cobblestone streets of Plaka.

Is the Athens Riviera a good base for sightseeing?

If you want to sightsee and explore the ruins of Athens, the Riviera isn’t the best or most convenient base. I’d recommend the Athens Riviera if this isn’t your first trip to Athens, or as an add-on after your time in the city.


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PS — Are You Booking a Trip Soon? Use My Booking Checklist!

These are the sites I use most to book my own trips. Using the links below is a great way to support Bon Traveler’s travel journalism at no extra cost to you. If you need help organizing your itinerary, get my free travel itinerary template here.

1. Book Your Accommodations

I use Booking.com for hotels and Airbnb for vacation rentals. They have the biggest inventory and consistently offer the best rates.

2. Book Your Rental Car

Self-driving is the best way to explore most destinations. I use Discover Cars for our rental cars, select full coverage insurance, and opt for a reputable company like Alamo, Hertz, or Sixt.

3. Book Your Tours & Experiences

I use Viator, Airbnb, and Get Your Guide to find the best tours and experiences. They are my favorite tour search engines. I always check all three as their inventory varies depending on the destination.

4. Book Your Private Transfers

For easy, reliable private transfers, I use Welcome Pickups. It’s my go-to for arranging a driver in advance — whether it’s an airport pickup, a hotel-to-hotel transfer, or a day trip. The experience is seamless, with English-speaking drivers and upfront pricing, so you can travel stress-free at every stage of your trip.

5. Get Cell Data for Your Trip

I use Holafly for international cell data. Their unlimited data eSIMs are easy to install, activate instantly on arrival, and let you skip local SIM cards and expensive roaming fees.

6. Don’t Forget Travel Insurance

I never leave the country without travel insurance. It provides comprehensive protection in case anything goes wrong (ie. illness, injury, theft, or cancellations).

My favorite companies that offer the best coverage and rates are:


Xx,
Jessica

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