Where to Stay in Athens – 8 AMAZING Areas for a 2024 Trip

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!

Quick Picks for Your Stay…

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

• Best luxury hotel – Electra Metropolis
• Best mid-range hotel – Urban Frame Plaka
• Best budget hotel – Kimon Hotel Athens

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Watch my video, it will give you a visual explanation of all the areas:

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

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:

• Best places in Athens for the first time: Plaka, Syntagma and Psyri
• Top neighborhoods in Athens for nightlife: Psyri or Plaka
• Where to stay for shopping: Monastiraki and Syntagma
• Best area in Athens for families: Kolonaki or Syntagma
• Best Athens neighborhood for budget travelers: Gazi and Koukaki

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

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.

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

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!

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.

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3. Psyri – where to stay in Athens for nightlife

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.

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

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.

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

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.

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

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.

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.

Mid-range (from €120 to €210)

• Oniro City – All rooms at this hotel are air-conditioned and equipped with flat-screen TVs and coffee machines, each with a private bathroom stocked with free toiletries. 
• Project 3 Urban Chic Hotel – Close to major attractions like the National Garden, this hotel offers airport transfers, bicycle rentals, and à la carte breakfast.

Budget (up to €120)

• Mandra Living – These budget apartments are in a great location and have air conditioning, fully equipped kitchens, separate dining and living areas, and TVs with streaming services. 
• Artistic Deco Apartment – A spacious apartment with 2 bedrooms, 1 bathroom, a kitchen, a balcony with courtyard views, and free Wi-Fi access.

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

If you’re a budget traveler who still wants to be close to all the main attractions in Athens, then pick Gazi! Situated West of Plaka and 3.5 km (2 miles) from the Acropolis, this district has a very relaxed vibe to it while still being super close to the top sights. 

The main point of interest in Gazi is the Technopolis City of Athens, an arts center that houses a gas museum and hosts a variety of exhibitions and concerts. Best of all? It’s situated in a former gasworks!

This district is also full of street art, amazing restaurants, cafes, pubs, and clubs, so you definitely won’t get bored! 

From Gazi, you can easily plan a visit to the nearby neighborhood of Petralona. Although this neighborhood is largely residential, it’s a good place to walk around and see how the Athenians live their day-to-day lives.

Luxury (€150 and up)

• 47 Luxury Suites – While staying at these luxury apartments, you’ll have access to a rooftop garden and a hot tub, and you’ll also enjoy an in-room spa bath. 
• Thission Luxury Homes – This upscale apartment complex has a terrace offering amazing city views, and each of the units has air conditioning and Wi-Fi access, as well as a kitchen and a dining area.

Mid-range (from €90 to €150)

• Mc Queen – This awesome aparthotel is located right in the heart of Gazi, close to the railway station, and features minimally decorated rooms, a garden, and an on-site bar. 
• Taste of Home Apartments – The apartment provides access to a restaurant, but it also boasts a fully equipped kitchen, 1 bedroom, 1 bathroom, and a seating area.

Budget (up to €90)

• DAYS City Suites Athens – Even though this is a 4-star property, it’s available at very affordable prices and offers a paid airport shuttle, a concierge service, and luggage storage. 
• Iconic Athens Hostel – A modern hostel complex that offers beds in shared dormitories and has a fantastic rooftop where you can admire stunning views of Acropolis, Lycabettus Hill, and Technopolis.

8. Athens Coast – where to stay in Athens near the beach

If you don’t feel like making the trip from Athens to Santorini or to one of the other Greek islands for a beach vacation, I have good news for you! You can book a hotel or an apartment on the coast of Athens and have an unforgettable time on the beach.

Below, I recommend 4 amazing areas (+ hotels for each) that are a great choice for your upcoming trip. 

8.1 Alimos

Alimos is a suburban town on the Saronic Gulf and is part of the larger Athens conglomeration, located 11 km (6.8 miles) from the Athens city center. 

Kalamaki Beach (map) is the largest (and best!) beach in Alimos, and the Alimos Marina is another cool spot to visit during your stay here. 

Luxury (€240 and up)

• Urban Suites – This aparthotel is super close to the beach, and each unit is equipped with a kitchen, balcony, and seating area, while guests also get access to a hot tub and a patio with sea views. 
• Scale Suites – Guests at this suite complex can have drinks at the rooftop cocktail bar while enjoying the view of the sea, benefit from private parking, and make use of the in-room fireplace. 

Mid-range (from €110 to €240)

• Maison 66, Riviera Hotels – The hotel rooms at Maison 66 are uniquely decorated and offer sea views and Wi-Fi access, and guests also get access to free parking. 
• Marina Alimos Hotel Apartments – This aparthotel overlooks the Alimos Marina, and each apartment has dark wooden furnishings, double-glazed windows, and air conditioning. 

Budget (up to €110)

• Alimos Apartments – An air-conditioned apartment with a balcony, a full kitchen, a bedroom with a double bed, and a living room with a sofa bed and a flat-screen TV. 
• Zen Hotel – The hotel provides easy beach access and has a lovely garden with a snack bar, a 24/7 front desk, and a breakfast service. Each room has a TV as well as central heating and air conditioning. 

8.2 Glyfada

Situated 13 km (8 miles) from the city center and 8 km (5 miles) from Alimos, Glyfada is a small town on the Athens Riviera in the southern part of the Athens urban area. 

The top beaches in Glyfada include Glyfada Beach (map) and Asteras Beach (map). Other spots worth a visit are the Glyfada Golf Club of Athens and the Hondos Center department store. 

Luxury (€270 and up)

• One&Only Aesthesis – A 5-star hotel with an outdoor swimming pool, a garden, a terrace, a restaurant, and a bar. Guests can order room service, and a buffet breakfast is served each morning. 
• Dusit Suites Athens – This upscale hotel offers spacious suites, 2 restaurants, a sauna, an outdoor pool that’s open year-round, and a delicious complimentary breakfast. 

Mid-range (from €130 to €270)

• Azur Suites – At this property, you’ll find open-plan rooms with a kitchenette, a seating area, and a private bathroom, and most of them also offer sea views. 
• Palmyra Beach Hotel – This beachfront hotel has an outdoor pool and an elegant restaurant that serves an American buffet breakfast, as well as lunch and dinner. 

Budget (up to €130)

• Ammo Glyfada Residences – Guests at this apartment gain access to a balcony, a garden, and a shared kitchen, and they can also enjoy mountain views from the property’s terrace. 
• ANAFIS COZI – This 1-bedroom apartment features a double bed, a kitchenette, and a bathroom, and you’ll also have access to free parking and Wi-Fi. 

8.3 Vouliagmeni

Vouliagmeni is a seaside neighborhood on the Athenian Riviera, 28 km (17 miles) from the center of Athens. The neighborhood is further South from both Alimos and Glyfada and boasts incredible nature. 

The main tourist attraction here is Vouliagmeni Lake (map), a great spot if you want to go swimming. However, if you prefer swimming in the sea, head over to Vouliagmeni Beach (map) – you won’t be disappointed. 

Luxury (€300 and up)

• Four Seasons Astir Palace – This is one of the best luxury hotels in Athens, with 8 on-site restaurants, a gym, a spa with 10 different treatment rooms, 5 tennis courts, and a private beach area. 
• The Margi – A 5-star hotel, situated just a few steps away from the beach and offering access to an indoor pool, a steam and a sauna room, and 3 amazing restaurants.

Mid-range (from €150 to €300)

• Vouliagmeni Riviera Apartments – Guests at this property can enjoy the lovely garden, and all the units are air-conditioned, with a private bathroom and a full kitchen. 
• Vouliagmeni Stylish Homes – These apartments offer either garden or sea views, and some units have a terrace or a balcony. Each apartment has a private bathroom, as well as a dining and seating area. 

NOTE: There are no budget accommodations in Vouliagmeni, as this is a more upscale part of the Athenian Riviera. For budget travelers, there are affordable options in the other coastal areas. 

8.4 Piraeus

My final recommendation for staying on the Athens Coast is Piraeus, a port city that’s 8 km (5 miles) from the city center of Athens or 20 minutes by metro. Here, you’ll find the best hotels on the Riviera, and you can also do some sightseeing!

Beach Freatida (map) is the best beach in Piraeus, but Votsalakia Beach (map) also warrants a visit. You should also stop by the Port of Piraeus and visit the Archaeological Museum of Piraeus. 

Luxury (€230 and up)

• The Alex Monte Kastella – A 4-star hotel with a restaurant, bar, private parking, a terrace, offering room service, and a front desk open 24/7, while breakfast is available at an extra charge. 
• Athenarum Portus Life & Style Hotel – Guests at this upscale hotel can benefit from airport transfers, room service, private parking, and access to a shared lounge, a bar, and a restaurant. 

Mid-range (from €110 to €230)

• Gallery Suites & Residences – The rooms at this 3-star hotel are air-conditioned and provide Wi-Fi access, and guests can also use the sauna, a business center, and the concierge service. 
• Savoy Hotel – At the Savoy, there are 3 fully equipped meeting rooms, a classically decorated restaurant/bar, and guest rooms with floor-to-ceiling windows. 

Budget (up to €110)

• Scorpios Sea Side Hotel – This hotel offers both rooms and suites with modern decorations and upholstered beds, and there’s also an on-site bar and Wi-Fi access in all hotel areas. 
• Piraeus Port Hotel – Situated near the Piraeus metro station, this hotel offers luggage storage and a 24/7 front desk that can arrange tours, and there’s also an on-site bar and restaurant.

👑 Luxury price:	€200
💵 Mid-range:	€130
🛏️ Budget:	€70
📍 Best area:	Plaka
🛎️ Best luxury hotel:	Electra Metropolis
🧳 Best mid-range hotel:	Urban Frame Plaka
👛 Best budget hotel:	Kimon Hotel Athens

Practical tips for your trip to Athens

Before I wrap up this post, I wanted to provide a few practical tips for your visit to the Greek capital:

• Keep safe: even though Athens is generally a safe city. However, there have been numerous riots over the years, so make sure to stick to the city center and the tourist hotspots.
• Beware of the drug problem: Athens, like many other major cities around the world, is battling an opioid crisis. You may see people dealing or using drugs in the street; if so, leave immediately. Omonoia Square should be avoided at night, and avoid venturing out to Kolonos and Agio Panteleimomas at any time of day.
• Avoid visiting in the summer: during the summer months, Athens tends to be incredibly hot. Unless you’re going to stay on the Athens Coast, plan your visit for spring or fall.

FAQs about where to stay in Athens

Conclusion

In this post, I talked about all the best spots for your stay in Athens, and hopefully, I helped you reach a decision on where to stay in Athens.

But in case you still can’t decide, I’ll share my 2 favorite hotels in Plaka: 

• Electra Metropolis – a luxury hotel with a rooftop pool and an amazing restaurant
• Urban Frame Plaka – a hotel in a great location offering car rentals and airport transfers

As soon as you decide, make your hotel reservation in advance – you don’t want to miss out on the wonderful city of Athens! 

If you have any questions, drop them in the comments below – I’m happy to assist!

Happy travels,

Hristina

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