Where to stay in Athens: The Best 7 Neighbourhoods

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Are you wondering where to stay in Athens? I don’t blame you! The city has a magnitude of options for every type of traveller and every type of budget. Plus, it’s a fantastic place to visit and when you’re there, you definitely want to make sure you’re located in the best spot.

Athens is one of those timeless cities in Europe where spectacular history mingles effortlessly with modern life. You can find ancient ruins perched on street corners, see structures that have survived thousands of years of history, and still manage to pass a McDonald’s or an H&M on your way to visit them! 

So, whether you’re more into history or home comforts, Athens has something for everyone, and an array of places to stay that cater to every need. Here are the best places to stay in Athens, and the top neighbourhoods for any traveller.

What is the best place to stay in Athens?

This depends on what you’re looking for from the city. If you love history and are there for the Greek classics, I recommend staying near Syntagma Square. If you’re after nightlife and partying, Psyri is best, and if you simply want to relax and soak in the city’s incredible vibes, I recommend Plaka.

But overall, for a first-time visit to Athens, I think the best neighbourhood to stay in is Syntagma Square or Plaka because of their central location and proximity to all of Athens’ top attractions. 

Where to stay in Athens at a glance

• Syntagma Square – the best place to stay in Athens for first-timers
• Plaka – the best place to stay in Athens for chill vibes
• Psyri – where to stay in Athens for nightlife
• Kolonaki – the best place to stay in Athens for families
• Koukaki – where to stay in Athens for history
• Exarcheia – the best place to stay in Athens for art
• Gazi – where to stay in Athens on a budget

1. Syntagma Square – the best place to stay in Athens for first-timers

This central neighbourhood is within easy walking distance of many of the best things to do in Athens. You’ll find the famous square, the Greek Parliament, gorgeous neoclassical architecture, the Tomb of the Unknown Soldier, and the Panathenaic Stadium.

You’ll also be within easy walking distance of the Acropolis and plenty of museums. 

Other important factors to consider are public transport links and access to restaurants and bars. Well, considering this is the most important square in Athens, you’ll find it easy to get to pretty much anywhere else in the city as it’s very well-connected by public transport.

It’s also surrounded by plenty of bars, cafes, and restaurants, so you’ll be able to find something tasty to eat after a long day’s exploring. 

Amalia Hotel

Located right across from the city’s National Garden, this stylish 4* hotel is classy and modern. Each room is spacious and comfortable and deluxe rooms have balconies with views over the gardens.

The hotel serves a delicious breakfast every morning and has an a la carte restaurant on site for your evening meal. It’s also located near public transport for easy access to the rest of the city. 

Other accommodation options:

• Heritage Boutique Apartments – well-furnished, modern apartments within easy walking distance of everything.
• The Vault Athens – this centrally located hotel boasts contemporarily designed rooms, attentive staff and tasty breakfast.
• Central Hotel – well-located, clean and comfortable hotel with a beautiful rooftop garden with Acropolis views.

✅ For more places to stay in Syntagma, click here.

2. Plaka – the best place to stay in Athens for chill vibes

As the oldest neighbourhood in Athens, Plaka exudes a sort of timeless charm. Wandering through its labyrinth of streets will transport you back in time.

It’s also one of the most beautiful areas of Athens, with vibrant bougainvillea, and cosy tavernas that create an enchanting atmosphere.

Here, you’ll find attractions like the Roman Agora, the Parthenon, and the Temple of Olympian Zeus, as well as plenty of museums.

It’s within walking distance of the Acropolis, and with close access to public transport, so you can explore the rest of the city with ease. Nonetheless, because of its charm and central location, it can be a little pricier than other areas of the city.

Electra Metropolis

This classy 5* hotel is the perfect place to stay in Athens for a spot of luxury. Located in Plaka, it’s central enough to make it easy to get around the city and has plenty of features to help you relax during your stay.

For instance, you could swim in the waterfall-effect rooftop pool, relax on the sun terrace with views over Athens, or sip cocktails at the top-floor restaurant. All of the elegant rooms are well-decorated with hardwood flooring, marble bathrooms, and very comfortable beds.

The common areas are well-designed too – the lounge has a funky retro vibe, complete with a skylight making it the perfect place to relax.

Other accommodation options

• Athos Hotel – simple yet comfortable 3* hotel in the heart of Plaka. 
• Amazon Hotel – this 42-room hotel offers cosy rooms decorated with warm neutral tones, some with wonderful Acropolis views.
• Plaka Arch Suites – comfy, spacious apartments with great facilities and a hot tub with views of the Acropolis.

✅ For more places to stay in Plaka, click here.

3. Psyri – where to stay in Athens for nightlife

From the calm and beautiful neighbourhood to the lively electric one! If you’re wondering where to stay in Athens for a bit (or a LOT) of fun, Pysri is the answer.

Nestled on the fringes of the historic city centre, Psyri gives off an artistic and bohemian aura that captures the hearts of its visitors.

If you love nightlife, this is also one of the best places to stay in Athens. As the sun sets, the neighbourhood’s narrow streets come alive with an eclectic mix of hip bars, live music venues, and quirky art galleries, offering a kaleidoscope of experiences for night owls and creative souls

It used to have a very different vibe, full of shabby streets and industrial buildings. But, it has since undergone a captivating transformation and is now celebrated for its avant-garde spirit and lively energy.

It’s popular among backpackers as there’s plenty of budget accommodation here, but also plenty of boutique places for those who aren’t about the hostel scene.

St. Bjur Suites

This stylish and modern 4* hotel is the perfect place to stay while exploring Athens. The rooms are stylish and modern, featuring a flat-screen TV, coffee machine, and very comfortable bed.

You’ll also find the hotel just a few meters from Monastiraki Square and the Ermou Street shopping area. It’s also close to the metro station, so it makes it easy to explore the rest of Athens.

Other accommodation options:

• NLH Monastiraki Hotel – located in proximity to the vibrance of Psyri and still close to other sights in Athens, this hotel has a fitness suite, comfy rooms, and a great breakfast.
• Wukela Apartments – a great budget option, these apartments are fitted with a spacious living area, Wi-Fi and city-view balconies.
• Asomaton – this charming boutique hotel features exposed brickwork, a coffee machine, a swimming pool, a garden, a terrace, and express check-out.

✅ For more places to stay in Psyri, click here.

4. Kolonaki – the best place to stay in Athens for families

Perched on top of one of Athens’ hills, Kolonaki is a much more sophisticated neighbourhood than the others on this list. Renowned for its luxurious charm, this fashionable district will entice you with its tree-lined streets, high-end boutiques, and stylish cafes.

You’ll find a pretty good range of things to do here, from museums to art galleries; to shopping or simply finding a great viewpoint over the city, Kolonaki is a great place to stay. Plus, because it’s more upscale than downtown Athens, it’s much quieter.

You’ll find peaceful streets without the tourist bustle, yet still be within walking distance of attractions. Perfect for families!

COCO-MAT Athens Jumelle

This beautiful 5* hotel is surprisingly affordable considering how lovely it is. With large, roomy bedrooms, stunning marble bathrooms, and a clean, modern feel throughout, this hotel will give you a touch of modern luxury in such a historic city.

You’ll also find a fitness centre, a bar, a garden, and a gorgeous indoor pool. The on-site restaurant serves lunch, dinner, and a delicious buffet breakfast.

Other accommodation options:

• Elia Kolonaki Luxury Apartments – slick and stylish apartments, with spacious living space and comfortable bedrooms. 
• The Modernist Athens – With its contemporary design, terrace, and turntable with its own vinyl collection, this 4* hotel is ideal for those looking for a touch of luxury. 
• The Duke Boutique Suites – If plush cushions, a sauna, and a rooftop pool sound ideal, you’ll love these suites. Throw in the self-catering element, living space, and mini kitchenette, and you really do have the best of both worlds!

✅ For more places to stay in Kolonaki, click here.

5. Koukaki – where to stay in Athens for history

If you’re wondering where to stay in Athens if you want Acropolis views, this is it! Tucked at the southern foothills of the Acropolis, Koukaki is a laid-back neighbourhood, with its authentic charm and local vibe. 

In Koukaki, you’ll find quaint streets lined with cosy cafes, family-run tavernas, and boutique shops. You’ll find a much more genuine experience here, away from many of the tourist crowds, so it’s ideal if you’d like a taste of local life.

Plus, its proximity to Athens’ ruins makes it perfect for history lovers. 

B4B Athens Signature Hotel

A gorgeous hotel, located just a 6-minute walk from the Acropolis Museum, offers elegantly decorated rooms and suites. The rooftop bar will give you great views of the acropolis and the barman is super nice. He gave us free shots of his homemade ouzo!

The hotel also provides a delicious breakfast every morning, and you can reach the popular Syntagma Square within just a 15-minute walk. 

Acropolis Museum Boutique Hotel

This fantastic hotel is located at the feet of the Acropolis. The charming accommodation provides simple, yet luxurious rooms, with high ceilings, wooden floors, and original paintings.

You’ll be in one of the best locations in the city, within walking distance of the Parthenon, Acropolis, Plaka, and Syntagma Square – ideal for those who love sightseeing and culture.

The hotel also serves a huge breakfast in the morning with lots of choices, and they also have a WIFI corner, perfect for digital nomads. 

Other accommodation options:

• Cohort Koukaki – With exposed brickwork, a shared lounge, and stylish decor, these apartments are the perfect place to stay in Athens.
• Acropolis View Deluxe Penthouse – this exceptionally rated penthouse and luxury apartments are beautifully decorated, comfortable, spacious, and have stunning views of the Acropolis.
• Acropolis Select – this cosy and affordable 3* hotel has a glorious sky bar with Acropolis views, a top-floor restaurant, and spacious rooms with balconies.

✅ For more places to stay in Koukaki, click here.

6. Exarcheia – the best place to stay in Athens for street art

For an energetic and bohemian vibe, head to Exarcheia. Renowned for its vibrant counterculture, this dynamic district pulses with creativity, activism, and a strong sense of community.

Located near the National Archeological Museum, the streets here are adorned with graffiti and street art; you’ll find quirky bookstores, bustling squares, and coffee shops where locals and students gather to discuss cultural events. It’s one of the livelier neighbourhoods, but also one of the most affordable.

Trendy Hotel by Athens Prime Hotel

This charming 4* hotel features a cosy shared lounge area, a terrace, and a bar, and is located in the centre of the city. Each of the rooms is incredibly comfortable, with big beds, a desk area, and a modern bathroom.

Some rooms have city views, balconies, and spa baths. Plus, as the hotel is just a short walk to the metro station, you’ll find yourself very well-connected to the rest of the city.

Other accommodation options:

• Hestia – Ippokratous 35 – this stylish block of apartments features contemporary rooms with comfy living spaces, a terrace, and a fully equipped kitchen.
• Alter Athens – a simple, yet cosy and affordable hotel with clean rooms, located 700 meters from the Archeological Museum. 
• When in Athens Hostel – I’m typically not a fan of hostels, but this one had a certain charm. Featuring very modern rooms, and a convenient location, you’ll have a pleasant stay and might even make some friends!

✅ For more places to stay in Exarcheia, click here.

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

For the ultimate budget traveller, this is definitely one of the best places to stay in Athens.

Formerly an industrial area (and named after the gasworks that once dominated the area), Gazi has now transformed into a trendy and vibrant hub, contributing to the city’s cultural and nightlife scene. 

You’ll find hip bars, clubs, and live music venues alongside contemporary art galleries, unique shops, and thriving street markets.

The district’s urban renewal has preserved its industrial heritage while infusing it with a modern edge, making it an exciting blend of grit and glamour.

DAYS City Suites

This new, contemporary hotel ticks all the boxes. The rooms are spacious and modern with wooden features, comfy seating areas, and convenient desk space. Some of the rooms have balconies and kitchenettes, ideal for those after self-catering.

Just a short walk to the metro station and surrounded by fantastic restaurants and bars, you’ll find yourself right at home here. 

Other accommodation options:

• Athenian View Loft – trendy loft apartments with stunning views over the city, you’ll find a comfy terrace, a seating area in your room, and free wifi.
• A Little Taste of Home Apartments – these apartments are huge! If you’re wondering where to stay in Athens with plenty of space, these apartments are ideal. They’re also pleasantly decorated and have everything you’ll need for a comfortable stay.
• Athenian Spirit – beautiful apartments and rooms with balconies, a roof terrace, and black-out curtains to ensure a good night’s rest.

✅ For more places to stay in Gazi, click here.

👉 Still planning your trip to Athens? Check out my reviews of day tours to Delphi and Corinth, some of the most impressive historical sites near Athens.

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