When you finally decide to book your trip to Athens, Greece and are looking for a place to stay it can be intimidating to find the best neighborhoods in Athens, Greece. It is a sprawling city with many types of neighborhoods depending on what you are looking for.
Where you choose to stay in Athens as well as what you are looking to accomplish in terms of the things you want to do in Athens, will weigh heavily on how much you enjoy your experience.
This detailed post will share the best neighborhoods to stay from a solo travelers perspective as well as from a family perspective since I have visited Athens as a solo traveler as well as with my mother.
A Run Down: Best Neighborhoods In Athens, Greece
Athens, Greece has a diverse range of neighborhoods, each with its own unique character and charm. Here are some of the best neighborhoods in Athens that you might consider visiting or staying in:
- Plaka: This historic neighborhood is located at the foot of the Acropolis and is known for its narrow cobblestone streets, picturesque buildings, and quaint shops. It’s a popular tourist destination, but also a great place to get a feel for the city’s history and culture.
- Monastiraki: This neighborhood is located near Plaka and is known for its vibrant street life and bustling outdoor markets. The Monastiraki Flea Market is a must-visit for anyone looking for unique souvenirs or a lively atmosphere.
- Kolonaki: This upscale neighborhood is located in central Athens and is known for its fashionable boutiques, cafes, and restaurants. It’s a great place for shopping and people watching.
- Psyri: This up-and-coming neighborhood is located in central Athens and is known for its street art, live music scene, and trendy bars. It’s a great place to experience Athens’ alternative side.
- Exarchia: This bohemian neighborhood is located in central Athens and is known for its left-wing political history and vibrant cultural scene. It’s a great place for a night out, with a range of bars and clubs to choose from.
These are just a few of the many neighborhoods in Athens. Whether you’re looking for history, shopping, nightlife, or a unique cultural experience, you’re sure to find it in one of these areas.
Best Hotels and Airbnbs in Athens, Greece For Different Types of Travelers
Where to stay in Athens First Time
There is a lot that determines this from your budget to what you would like to do in Athens, Greece for the first time. However, for first time visitors I recommend staying somewhere like Plaka a safe neighborhood located close to the Acropolis as well as other things to do in Athens, Greece.
Another central square people stay is Syntagma Square. This is where you can see the Greek Parliamentary Building, the tomb of the unknown soldier, and some of the most trendy restaurants and bars in the city.
Where you are visiting Athens for the first time or you have been before this guide to the best places to stay in Athens will help you book the best hotel or airbnb in Athens based on the best neighborhoods in Athens for all types of travelers.
If you are looking for the perfect place to stay for first time visitors to Athen’s, Plaka is the neighborhood for you. It is located close to all the major sites to see great for if you have 1 day or 3 days in Athens, Greece.
Electra Hotel
The Electra Hotel is a 4-star and is a sharp hotel close to all the action. The rooftop is beautiful and the hotel’s restaurant offers an elevated Mediterranean experience. The hotel has stunning views of the Acropolis also from the X Floor. So even if you don’t stay here, they offer brunch, lunch, etc. At the Terra Cafe, you experience the vibes of Syntagma Square, the main square of Athens. Electra also offers much more. The prices start at $126+ at this time, low season. The #ElectraExperience is awesome and they have 6 luxury locations in Greece, including others in Athens. @electrahotels
Safe Places To Stay In Athens, Greece
Athens is generally a safe city, but like any large city, it’s important to be aware of your surroundings and take precautions to ensure your safety. Here are some of the safer neighborhoods to consider when choosing a place to stay in Athens:
Kolonaki is an upscale neighborhood in central Athens that is known for its high-end shopping and dining options, as well as its calm, tree-lined streets. It’s considered one of the safer areas in Athens and is a great choice for travelers who are looking for a safe and secure place to stay.
The Modernist Athens
This hotel has it’s place in history as it was the former Canadian Embassy in Greece. Now it boasts a sleek modern design in the heart of the historical center of Athens, Greece. There is a roof top to get some sun and fresh air as well as a find your fit accommodation style. What does that mean? The rooms come in S, M , L, XL and can fit your needs depending on your reason of travel even if you are traveling to Athens with your family. The Modernist is awesome and an expanding concept hotel with aa location in Thessaloniki as well.
The Academias Hotel- Autograph Collection
I love the autograph collection hotel’s by Marriott and The Academias offers a unique design as well as location. Here you can have a partial view of the acropolis and it is located in Kolonaki. This 5 star hotel offers an indoor pool, sauna, as well as free bikes for guests to use! It is close to Syntagma Square and other things to do in Athens that you can read more about in my other article!
Where to stay before a cruise in Athens, Greece?
I stayed at the Polis Grand Hotel before my cruise with Celestyal Cruises. There is simply more to do if you stay in Athens versus in Piraeus port area. Taxis are not unreasonable. Plus it breaks up the 40 minute drive from the airport to the port. While some people do not like Omonia square area of Athens, I believe it is becoming safer with quite a few 4 and 5 star hotels. I took Ubers everywhere and it was safer and cheaper than staying by the Acropolis and we still had a view!
Polis Grand Hotel
The Polis Grand hotel was very nice and had a rooftop restaurant, a cafe/bar on the first floor, and 2 beds in our room that had a balcony with a view of the street and the Acropolis in the distance when you looked to the side. It was a very classic hotel, rated 4 from google searches. The staff at the front desk were so nice and helpful too. Polis was a block back from the main square (for instance Moxy is on the other side of the square as is the Brown Acropol) and It is a bit older, but it had coffee in the room, a bathroom, etc. everything we needed before we left on our cruise.
There were ample places to eat in the square including the a food Hall and many bakeriesThe morning breakfast was phenomenal though, it was included and it had a massive selection of so many items. I probably could have stayed until lunch, plus it had traditional Greek coffee you could make yourself. The seating area was very nice and bright as well. This hotel was perfect and a partner of Celestyal Cruise. @polis_grand_hotel
Dave Red Athens, Son of a Brown
This is part of the Brown Hotel Group and is a recently renovated hipster place. The room has that urban feel, with concrete floors, bars, etc. but the bed was amazingly comfortable. We stayed here for a few days and enjoyed it. Our room had a balcony with seating, with a view of the cafes below. The bathroom was small but well-appointed, it had robes, slippers, etc. But most of the folks staying here were hipsters, singles, and couples, so a lot of room was not needed.
They have a bar/restaurant on the first floor with outdoor seating, and there was a breakfast buffet at the hotel, depending on your rate for the room, etc. When you come to the front door, the entrance is inviting and so is the hotel staff. The floor where you have breakfast also has a pool table and games, etc. available.
The Room
The room also had a good area to do some work and had a Nespresso maker, always high on my list, and loved the shampoos/conditioners they provide. I met 2 different DJs that travel the world performing, so you can get an idea of the hipster type that you may see. As you go back from Omonia Square, areas are under renovation/going through gentrification, but there are some tougher side streets as you go back, but across from the hotel is a police station so I never felt bothered. Like any big city, you have to be careful walking, especially at night. I would stay here again. Rooms are running around $60/night at the time of this writing.
Notably, the hotel has a rooftop with a hot tub with views of the city. There is room up there to go and relax, etc. with seating areas. @daveredathens
Brown Acropol
This new 4-star hotel also by the Brown Hotel Group was their first in Greece. I loved the rooftop with its large restaurant, hot tubs, and views of the Acropolis. They even have evening entertainment at times. It’s right off the square, with a stylish lobby decorated with a theme with cosmopolitan vibes of the 60s. “Retro chic” as they call it. The staff welcomed you with champagne and were very friendly. Prices are higher than the Dave Red but reasonable- currently starting at $92 a night. They also offer a breakfast, which is always helpful or there are many bakeries around the square (especially the Beneath Food Hall). @brownacropol
Brown Lighthouse Athens
The Lighthouse is also a 4-star hotel on the square, a short walk from the two other Brown properties, but this was glitzy and bold decor as you enter the lobby. It has a great rooftop, with a small rooftop bar, a pool, hot tubs, and views of the city including the Acropolis. It was probably my favorite of the Brown hotels since I tend to like pools (live in Florida). The hotel has group space, a restaurant, etc., and also refreshments as you enter. Like the others, they have a restaurant and breakfast on site, or the square has many places. Prices are around $97 and up from what I am seeing at the time of this writing. @lighthouseathens
Where to stay in Athens for nightlife and for solo travelers?
I found the best neighborhoods in Athens, Greece to stay in if you are looking to enjoy the nightlife as well as meet people on tours as a solo traveler is in the Psirí and Monastiraki neighborhoods. I stayed at the Downtown Athens Lofts and thoroughly enjoyed my time there. These are also two of the best neighborhoods to stay in Athens, Greece to stay for foodies looking to explore Athens.
Downtown Athens Lofts
These lofts are brand new and very stylish, all 7 condos have unique stylish interiors and some have different layouts, there is a locked entrance, an elevator, A/C and there are laundry machines on the lower level. It was centrally located in the Psiri neighborhood, near Monastiraki. This was the more bohemian area of the city, you can still see this with some graffiti, etc., but it appears to be converting to more residences like this loft. It is a lively area at night so it can be loud, but it didn’t bother me. Perhaps it’s the double-paned windows and they even had earplugs if needed (although it didn’t bother me). It was great to stay close to the action. The rooftop also had a patio with views of the Acropolis which was so beautiful.
The Room
There were so many food options nearby, but the unit had a kitchenette, fridge, microwave, some appliances, kettle for coffee, etc. Loved the large shower and bathroom. The bedroom was semi-private, there is a passthrough to the living area, but didn’t have a door but it was fine with us. In the living area was a table and couch etc. The rooms were very clean and well-appointed! I would stay here again. It is a bit more expensive to stay here than in other places I stayed, but given the quality and location, I recommend it.
Urban Tales For 4 Star Design Boutique Hotel in Psirí, Athens, Greece
While I stayed in an Airbnb in this neighborhood, I saw this boutique hotel and the Urban Tales has such a chic design. Also, if you are looking for a unique hip boutique hotel this is the perfect neighborhood. The nightlife, restaurants, and many Athens Food tours leave from the area.
Booking.comWhere to stay in Athens with Family
If you’re traveling to Athens with your family, there are several neighborhoods that are great for families. Here are a few options to consider:
- Glyfada: Glyfada is a seaside suburb of Athens that is known for its upscale shopping and dining options, as well as its beautiful beaches. There are also several parks and playgrounds in the area, making it a great choice for families with children. If you are looking for a great all around hotel for families in Athens by the beach then Grecotel Pallas Athens.
- Kifissia: Kifissia is another upscale suburb of Athens that is known for its peaceful atmosphere and tree-lined streets. It’s a great choice for families who are looking for a quiet and safe place to stay while still being close to the city center.
- Voula: Voula is a family-friendly neighborhood located near the coast south of Athens. It’s known for its beautiful beaches and parkland, making it a great choice for families who are looking for a beach holiday combined with the convenience of staying in a city.
No matter where you choose to stay in Athens, you’ll be close to some of the city’s most famous landmarks and attractions.
Best Neighborhoods To Stay In Athens Near The Beach
Many may not think of staying by the beach in Athens, Greece, but if you are not a first time visitor it maybe the perfect respite you need on your holidays. With apartments for rent on Verb, Airbnb that are budget friendly, and also some hotels by the beach that are luxurious there is something for everyone. The Athens Riviera offers 62 km of beautiful coastline and many options so pinpointing the best neighborhoods to stay in Athens near the beach is not an issue I chose two of the best hotels in two great neighborhoods depending on your travel needs.
Four Seasons Astir Palace Hotel
If you have been to Athens, Greece before or are visiting in the summer and want to be by the beach. The Four Seasons Astir Palace is located on a forested beach peninsula with privacy, epic pools, and blue water this place is perfect for a getaway. It is still pretty far from things such as the Acropolis 20 KM away. There is also a Michelin starred restaurant onsite called Pelagos. Breathtaking views, luxurious dining, and some of the best customer service on the Athens Riviera awaits you here.
Dolce by Wyndham Attica Riviera Vravrona
Vravrona is the best suburb for being located by the beach as well as only 15 minutes from the Athens International Airport. The Dolce by Wyndham is a 5 star hotel and offers a boutique luxury experience along the Athens Riviera. The resort is located in the historic town of Brauron not only is the town cute to visit, but you can take part in many wellness activities here, and water sports.
Find A Great Airbnb or Vrbo By The Beach
Mon Apartment Edem Beach. After being in the hustle and bustle of the “city” I wanted to stay close enough but be near the ocean so I found a small place near Edem Beach. It was a few buildings up the main avenue that borders the ocean. It was a studio with a bathroom, a small pantry, and a studio kitchen, plus it had a tiny balcony for 2 to sit on. There was no microwave or oven but there was a toaster oven to warm food etc. I tend to eat out. There was also a fridge in the pantry and a kettle to make coffee, etc. The apartment also had some seats to bring down to the beach etc.
There is a tram and bus line along the waterfront that you can take to the center of Athens or connect with the Metro. It took about 20 minutes to get there by taxi. This is part of the Athens Greek Riviera. There are some more well-known resorts also on the water, but they are much further out and I liked this location (I preferred this one). This also had WiFi, A/C, some cable channels, and a queen bed. The host was helpful and let me move in sooner since I had to leave my hotel, a great plus! I was able to walk or jump on the tram and go to the Edem Restaurant, the nearby marina, etc., so this was a great escape from the historic area. @booking.com
Recap Of The Best Neighborhoods In Athens To Stay
As you can see this guide to the best neighborhoods in Athens to stay scratches the surface of what is offered in the Greek Capital. However, I hope this helps you to make an informed decision on where to stay in Athens whether you are traveling solo, with friends, family, or looking for a luxurious escape.
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