Athens, Greece, the place I'm slowly planting my seeds and one of the best cities in Europe for many reasons that I'm happy to discuss in another post. For those following my journey, you already know my story and how I ended up moving here in 2016. A quick recap, I was offered a scholarship to study abroad in Athens and met my Prince Charming. This post is not about my fairytale dream life in Athens but more about my recommendations for visitors.
There are a few different types of visitors in Athens, history nerds, wanderlusts, and holiday makers. The history nerds come to Athens to visit the
historical sites of Ancient Greece such as the Acropolis, Erechtheum, Zeus Temple, and National Archaeological Museum just to name a few. The wanderlusts are interested in Athens for its culture, food, and vibe. Those are secretly my favorite type of tourists as they have the most fun. Well, my type of fun, totally subjective. Then we have the holiday makers, cool crowd too. They do not want to be bothered by touring around the city and trying new things. The holiday makers just want to chill and be catered. They are not interested in exploring and adventure. Give them a cocktail and a pool with stunning views and they are happy. You won't meet them on the street because these streets are not meant for walking and they are not about walking on eggshells on these nonfunctional sidewalks of Athens. Pun intended, lol. Yes its me complaining about the infrastructure in Greece. Who designed the streets here? Any regard for the blind, handicap, strollers, and ladies in heels?
Before I get too distracted, lets talk about planning your trip to Athens. Depending on the season your is planned for, I would recommend following the following:
Autumn Winter Spring = City Center
Syntagma
Plaka
Monastiraki
Thesio
Koukaki
Kolonaki
Summer = Glyfada
Aegean Islands
Ionian Islands As you can tell from the chart above, I do not recommend the city center of Athens during the summer season. It is hot, humid, crowded, and dirty during this time. While the main tourist attractions are in the city center, for those coming for more than 2 nights, I would recommend staying in the south and taking a taxi to the center. There is public transportation which is well connected in the center but the access to the south is fairly poor, hence my recommendation for taxis. Unlike most parts of Europe, taxis are cheap in Greece. Just for reference, a taxi from Glyfada (south) to Kolonaki (city center) cost €12-€15 depending on the traffic. Thats a 30 minute drive for less than $20! For my fellow New Yorkers, that's pennies, so take advantage of it!
So why am I raving about the south? Simple because its less crowded with tourists and much cleaner. The south of Athens stretches along the coastline with beautiful beaches and entertainment. From coffee shops to nightlife, there's a lot happening here too. And yes! There are tons of foreigners like myself living here therefore English is widely spoken. Actually, I'll give it to the Greeks, majority of the country speaks English, at least the very basic, which is a huge plus for tourists. Ever been to Spain/Italy? They look at you like you're an alien when you speak in English lol.
Staying in the city center, specifically in Syntagma, Monastiraki, Plaka, Thesio, Kolonaki, and Koukaki, is ideal for tourists who want to visit tourist sites, Ancient Greek ruins (they are all over the mentioned neighborhoods), and museums. Almost all the touristic sites are in close proximity to each other therefore regardless of where you stay you'll be quite central. The big downside for staying in the city center is that its mostly a tourist trap. Meaning you don't really indulge in the culture and grind of the country. I would say 8/10 restaurants mainly cater to tourists therefore the authenticity and quality of the food is simply not the real deal. Not so bad if you aren't a foodie and care more about touring the city than chilling with the culture. Do you get the difference I'm talking about?
Im not sponsored or paid to talk about these hotels, just sharing my experience and recommendations.
Athens City Center Hotels
Central Hotel Athens- Located in the heart of Plaka and Acropoli close to all the major tourist attractions. Being that the area is super busy and crowded, this street is actually quiet so its not as stressful as being on the main roads. I've been staying at this hotel for years, the service is great, its very reasonably priced, and it has parking! Make sure to check out their rooftop, stunning views of the Acropolis and Athens. It isn't a fancy hotel at all but has the basics for those looking for a place to crash. Budget friendly, I usually pay an average of €120/night
Athens Was Hotel - Located on the outskirts of Plaka, bordering Acropoli, this boutique hotel is one of my favorites for brunch on their rooftop. Retro chic design in a stunning neoclassical restored building on one of the most picturesque streets of Athens. All major tourist attractions are max 20 mins by foot. The hotel staff are incredibly helpful and friendly. It is a bit on the pricier side, average price per night is €450.
Hotel Grande Bretagne - Located in the Mecca of Athens, Syntagma, this classy hotel hosts many visitors that come to Athens for business/events. Across the street from the parliament, where tons of tourist crowd to watch the changing of the guards, this hotel has so much to offer. Aside from its prime location, the service and amenities are top! Theres a cigar lounge, a delicious Italian restaurant and bar on the rooftop, an amazing spa and salon, indoor & outdoor pool, and fitness studio. This is the hotel you are going to splurge, average night here costs €700.
Gatsby Hotel Athens - Well located on the side streets of Syntagma, the Gatsby hotel is my favorite hotel to visit even if I'm not staying the night! The interiors are sexy yet shy with a VIBE. Dressed with unique art pieces, every corner of the hotel is the perfect "Instagram" shot. The hotel bar is amazing! Options galore with hot friendly bartenders. The rooms are spacious and the beds are delicious! Literally, the best linen and mattresses I've slept on in Athens. They are usually booked out so plan in advance if you want to stay at the Gatsby. Rooms are reasonably priced for a 5 star boutique hotel in the center of Athens, average is €350/night.
The Margi Hotel - Located in the south of Athens in Vouliagmeni, the Margi is my go hotel in this area. Nestled in a residential area with not much around but beaches and homes, once you step into the Margi you feel like you're in a mini oasis. This boutique hotel has spacious rooms with comfortable bedding and incredible service. Conveniently close to all the major beaches and eateries, this is the place to stay for those looking to explore the Athenian Rivera.
If I share all my recommendations for accommodation this post would be a 45 minute read. Therefore, I narrowed down the hotels that sit on top of my list.
I'll be sharing recommendations and experiences in Athens in my next posts. Stay turned friends!
XoXo,
Ellie