Top Neighborhoods and Hotels in Athens 2025: Best Options for Every Budget
Last Update: April 9th
As the birthplace of Western civilization, Athens earns its spot at the top of many travel enthusiasts' bucket lists, and for good reason. A city where history and modernity coexist, Athens offers endless opportunities for exploration, with ancient landmarks, modern culture, and vibrant neighbourhoods just a stroll apart.
Planning your first trip to Athens can feel overwhelming, with endless travel guides and accommodation options. Ultimately, choosing where to stay comes down to your personal preferences.
Where should you stay in Athens? What type of place best suits your style?
Having lived in Athens for three years, I’ve wandered the intricate web of neighbourhoods, streets, styles, and hidden gems that make the city unique. From Koukaki, the down to earth, up-and-coming trendy neighbourhood where my Greek partner grew up, to Plaka, the most recognisable, historic centre of Athens.
For first time visitors to Athens, I recommend staying as central as possible. With limited time to explore, being close to key attractions allows for easy movement, helping you make the most of your time in the city.
Here are some of my top recommendations, tailored for different types of travellers in Athens.
Keep reading to the end, where each month I put a new hotel in the spotlight. The hotel is hand-selected based on rigorous criteria: prime location, unique design and ambience, exceptional service, outstanding value for money, and an authentic local experience.
Plaka: The Historic Heart of Athens
When you think of staying in Athens, the image of Plaka likely comes to mind: narrow, cobblestone streets lined with artisanal shops and cafés. Nestled at the base of the Acropolis, this historic neighbourhood—often called “the neighbourhood of the gods”, offers proximity to iconic sites like the Acropolis itself.
Its central location, stunning scenery, and rich history make Plaka a prime choice for where to stay in Athens for first timers. However, this prime position comes at a cost. Hotel prices in Plaka tend to be on the higher side, and the area can become crowded during peak tourist season.
Still, if you’re willing to embrace the hustle and bustle, Plaka remains an ideal base for exploring Athens and if you need to find where to stay in Athens close to the sights. Additionally, Plaka is a wonderful option for anyone searching for where to stay in Athens for families, as it’s super central to everything, with just about everything you need around you.
SUGGESTED HOTELS IN PLAKA
(Cost: €) 99 Adrianou Luxury Urban Stay
(Cost: €€) Ergon House Athens
(Cost: €€€) Urban Frame Plaka
Psirri: The Vibrant Heart of Athens
Another great option for first time visitors to Athens is the vibrant neighbourhood of Psirri, located just north of Monastiraki. Once considered a less desirable area, Psirri has undergone a transformation. Now, it's known for its trendy restaurants, boutique shops, striking street art, and a wealth of creative spots. Whether you're enjoying a coffee or a late-night cocktail in a lively atmosphere, Psirri is one of the best places to stay in Athens for couples.
Until the 1990s, Psirri was largely overlooked by both locals and tourists, but it has since transformed into one of the most dynamic neighbourhoods in Athens. Now, it offers the perfect blend of local charm and tourist appeal, making it an exciting place to immerse yourself in the heart of the city. While Psirri enjoys a central location, it doesn’t suffer from the heavy foot traffic that often characterizes Plaka, allowing you to experience city life at its core without the overwhelming crowds of other visitors.
SUGGESTED HOTELS IN PSIRRI
(Cost: €) Play Theatrou Athens
(Cost: €€) The Gem Society Hotel
(Cost: €€€) The Foundry Suites
Kolonaki: A Taste of Elegance in Classic Athens
Kolonaki is one of Athens' most upscale neighbourhoods, offering the perfect blend of proximity to the city’s vibrant heart and a slightly more residential atmosphere. Located just north of Syntagma Square, it’s renowned for its luxury shops, cafés, and galleries, making it a highly sought-after area.
What sets Kolonaki apart is its fusion of modern culture with old Athens. Traditional architecture blends with contemporary style, creating a neighbourhood rich in history and elegance. For first-time visitors, it’s ideal for those looking for a mix of past and present, with boutique hotels within walking distance of the historic centre. Kolonaki is an excellent choice for where to stay in Athens for families, offering a higher concentration of hotels while maintaining a residential vibe right in the heart of the city.
Kolonaki also sits at the foot of Lycabettus Hill, offering stunning city views. A short walk or funicular ride up the hill provides a peaceful escape and a perfect spot to take in the sunset over Athens.
SUGGESTED HOTELS IN KOLONAKI
(Cost: €) COCO-MAT Athens Jumelle
(Cost: €€) Monsieur Didot
(Cost: €€€) Shila Athens
Thiseio: Endless Acropolis Views
For a more relaxed, yet equally captivating stay, consider the charming neighbourhood of Thiseio. Located just beneath the Acropolis, Thiseio offers some of the best views of the ancient landmark, making it a perfect choice for those wanting to wake up to breathtaking, quintessential Athenian views.
With its laid-back vibe, Thiseio is a wonderful blend of local life and historic charm. The area is known for its tree-lined streets, cosy cafés, and small tavernas, where you can savour traditional Greek dishes while taking in the view of the Acropolis rising above. Strolling down one of Europe’s longest pedestrian pathways, Apostolou Pavlou Street, a pedestrian walkway that hugs the base of the Acropolis, adds a scenic touch to the experience, offering both a connection to the past and a peaceful escape from the bustle of the city. It’s less bustling than the more tourist-heavy neighbourhoods, offering a more authentic Athens experience while still being within easy reach of major attractions.
Whether you’re wandering through the quiet streets or sipping coffee with a view, staying in Thiseio ensures an unforgettable stay in Athens with impeccable views of one of the world’s most iconic landmarks.
SUGGESTED HOTELS IN THISEIO
(Cost: €) Be My Guest Athens
(Cost: €€) Acropolis View Luxury Apartment
(Cost: €€€) Ivis 4 Boutique Hotel
Koukaki: Where Local Charm Meets Modern Vibes
For a vibrant and local experience, Koukaki is an excellent choice. Situated just south of the Acropolis, this neighbourhood offers a perfect balance of proximity to major sights and a more residential, authentic atmosphere. Koukaki is known for its welcoming vibe, with a mix of trendy cafés, laid-back bars, and traditional tavernas, all nestled along its charming streets.
The area offers a more relaxed pace compared to the bustling city centre, yet it’s just a short walk from iconic landmarks like the Acropolis Museum and Filopappou Hill. With its strong local community, Koukaki allows you to enjoy the true spirit of Athens, while still being close enough to explore the historic centre. It’s a fantastic base for those looking for a comfortable, vibrant stay with easy access to the city's most important sites.
Piraeus: Authentic Athens, Just Steps from the Port
For travellers looking for where to stay in Athens before a cruise with early ferry departures or those seeking proximity to the port, Piraeus offers unparalleled convenience and affordable accommodation without sacrificing its authentic local charm. Just a short metro ride from the historic centre, this vibrant port city is renowned for its lively waterfront, seafood tavernas, and maritime atmosphere, offering a refreshing contrast to Athens' more tourist-heavy areas.
This down to earth, working-class neighbourhood allows visitors to experience the everyday rhythm of Athens, far from the polished, tourist-centric spots. While often overlooked by many, Piraeus is quietly developing a growing cultural scene, with modern art galleries, museums, and the impressive Marina Zeas, making it an ideal destination for those seeking a more genuine, off-the-beaten-path side of the city.
SUGGESTED HOTELS IN PIRAEUS
(Cost: €) Twinn Downtown Piraeus
(Cost: €€) Mitsis N'U Piraeus Port
Athenian Riviera: A Slice of Island Life, Just Half an Hour from Athens
The Athenian Riviera is a bit of a wild card when it comes to where to stay in Athens. While I wouldn't typically recommend it for first-time visitors, it's an excellent choice for those staying a bit longer and looking to experience a different side of the city. Stretching along the coast, this area offers a mix of seaside relaxation, trendy beach clubs, and upscale dining. If you’re looking for where to stay in Athens near the beach, the Athenian Riviera is the place to be.
Glyfada, known for its chic shopping streets and lively atmosphere, is a popular choice for those seeking a blend of coastal living and urban amenities. Just a little further along, Voula and Vouliagmeni offer a more relaxed experience, with beautiful beaches and luxurious resorts providing an idyllic escape from the city's hustle and bustle. Vouliagmeni, in particular, is famous for its stunning Vouliagmeni Lake, a natural hot spring that draws visitors seeking both relaxation and natural beauty. It's a refreshing alternative to the bustling city centre, providing a more laid-back vibe with raw, scenic views of the Aegean Sea. For those seeking a unique, coastal experience beyond the historic sights, the Athenian Riviera delivers a fresh perspective on Athens.
SUGGESTED HOTELS IN THE ATHENIAN RIVIERA
(Cost: €) Azur Hotel
(Cost: €€) Somewhere Boutique Hotel Vouliagmeni
(Cost: €€€) The Margi
On Spotlight This Month
Nur Edge Aparthotel - Acropolis Skyline (€€)
I couldn’t resist featuring Nur Edge Acropolis Skyline Hotel as our Hotel Spotlight of the Month, here’s why:
Views: As the name suggests, book the right room and enjoy some of the best views of the Acropolis right from your bed or even your bathtub.
Location, Location, Location: Tucked in the vibrant heart of Athens, with pedestrian-only Ermou Street right on its doorstep, Nur Edge puts you steps away from the city’s best shopping, dining, and historic sights.
Brand New: If you appreciate that fresh, new hotel aroma, you’ll love Nur Edge—it’s less than one year old.
Greek Hospitality: The customer service here is exceptional, with a warmth and personal touch that make you feel at home.
Great Value: Enjoy an outstanding level of comfort and quality without breaking the bank.
No matter where you choose to stay in Athens, each neighbourhood offers its own unique charm and atmosphere. Whether you're drawn to the historic heart of the city, the vibrant coastal scene, or the quieter, more local areas, there's a perfect spot for every traveller. The key is to find a location that suits your pace, interests, and the experience you're seeking. Wherever you land, Athens is ready to welcome you with its rich history, dynamic culture, and unforgettable sights. For further insight on how to make the most of your time in the Greek capital, check out our guide to Athens, here.
Feel free to leave a comment with any questions or suggestions, and I’m happy to help and point you in the right direction.
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