Not sure where to stay in Athens? As one of Europe’s largest metropolises, Athens offers a variety of neighborhoods, each with its own charm and character.
The city is a fascinating mix of ancient history and modern life, and choosing the right neighborhood can greatly enhance your stay.
In this guide, we’ll introduce you to the best neighborhoods in Athens and highlight their pros and cons for different travel preferences, budgets and lengths of stay. To make your planning easier, we’ve also listed our best hotels, apartments and AirBnBs in each neighborhood.
Where to stay in Athens: Best places
Here is a brief overview of the best neighborhoods in Athens, followed by detailed descriptions and accommodation recommendations:
1. Syntagma Square, the best area in Athens for first-time visitors
If you’re visiting Athens for the first time, Syntagma Square is undoubtedly the best area to stay in. While Plaka is often praised as an excellent choice, Syntagma Square and its surroundings really stand out. They offer a prime location with a lively atmosphere, central access to the main sights and a variety of accommodation to suit all preferences.
In addition , Syntagma Square is an ideal place to spend a night or two in Athens due to its excellent transportation links. As the heart of the city, it offers convenient access to the metro and the inexpensive X95 bus, which easily connects you to various locations and the airport. This makes it a practical and strategic choice for short stays.
From Syntagma, all the charming neighborhoods are just a stone’s throw away. Imagine sipping your morning coffee and then strolling through the charming alleyways of Plaka in 5-10 minutes or taking a relaxed quarter of an hour’s stroll to the lively bars of Monastiraki and Psiri.
And if you’re looking for a touch of Athenian elegance, the upscale Kolonaki neighborhood is right next door. The bonus? Access to the Acropolis via Plaka, which I highly recommend, is tantalizingly close.
Syntagma Square is a vibrant commercial center with a variety of bars and restaurants, making it an ideal starting point for exploring the landmarks of Athens.
Syntagma Square is the starting point for a diverse nightlife that you can easily walk to, so your nights in Athens are just as exciting as the days. Oh, and don’t forget – it’s as safe as houses.
Best hotels near Syntagma Square
- (€€€) 👉 Hotel Grande Bretagne: The Grande Bretagne in Athens offers outstanding views of Syntagma Square and the Acropolis. The luxurious rooms and the restaurant on the roof terrace offer an incomparable view of the city.
- (€€) 👉 Amalia Hotel: Located directly on Syntagma Square, it offers a pleasant blend of modernity and comfort. From the rooms you can enjoy views of the National Garden and Lycabettus. Personally, I am impressed by its commitment to environmentally friendly practices and its proximity to the city’s main attractions.
- (€) 👉 Arethusa Hotel: I’ve always had a soft spot for rooftop gardens, and the panoramic view of the Acropolis from here is simply breathtaking.
2. Plaka, the best area to stay in Athens as a tourist
Plaka is the most picturesque neighborhood in Athens and a must-see for anyone new to the city. Located just below the Acropolis hill, it is the heart of old Athens, full of souvenir stores, inviting tavernas and quaint cafes, all set amidst ancient monuments. If your time in Athens is limited, Plaka is an ideal starting point.
Plaka’s charm lies in its narrow streets and beautiful neoclassical buildings, which give the neighborhood a village-like feel in the middle of the city. Plaka is a pedestrian’s paradise, especially the upper part, known as Anafiotika, is ideal for leisurely strolls.
Plaka is easily accessible from both Syntagma and Acropolis metro stations and offers a variety of accommodation options. Whether you’re looking for luxury boutique hotels or budget hostels, you’ll find it in Plaka.
Best hotels in Plaka
- (€€€) 👉 Cityzoe Athens Suites: Just 300 meters from the Acropolis Museum, the hotel offers easy access to the center of Athens. You will appreciate the clean, renovated and quiet rooms with balconies as well as the friendly and efficient service.
- (€€) 👉 Ergon House: Located just 500 meters from Monastiraki Square and Plaka center, this 4-star hotel offers a unique stay with a fitness center, private parking and on-site dining options.
- (€) 👉 Adam’s Hotel: Adam’s Hotel is an ideal and affordable base for exploring Athens. Some rooms offer a view of the Acropolis.
3. Kolonaki, the best area in Athens for a luxurious stay
Kolonaki is the most aristocratic neighborhood in Athens, nestled between the National Garden and Lycabettus Hill, the highest point in the city. It is very close to the Parliament and Syntagma Square, making it an ideal location for those interested in politics and business.
This area is known for its upscale boutiques, sophisticated bars, gourmet restaurants and art galleries. It is an ideal place for shopping, enjoying fine dining and discovering art.
A special feature of Kolonaki is the opportunity to climb Lycabettus Hill on foot or by cable car, from where you have a breathtaking view of Athens. The neighborhood is also home to notable museums such as the Museum of Cycladic Art and the Byzantine Museum.
For those willing to invest a little more in their stay, Kolonaki offers luxurious accommodation. While the area is known for its top hotels, you can also find some reasonably priced rental apartments if you book early.
Best Hotels in Kolonaki
- (€€€) 👉 Hotel Lozenge: A jewel in the heart of Athens, offering an unbeatable central location in a pedestrianized area. The rooms are characterized by comfort, tasteful décor and exceptional cleanliness and have spacious bathrooms. A highlight is the breakfast, which offers a wide selection of options until 11:00 a.m. and ensures a pleasant start to the day.
- (€€€) 👉 Academias Hotel, Autograph Collection: Combining luxury with practicality, this 5-star hotel has chic, quiet and well-appointed rooms. It also has a well-stocked lobby bar and a rooftop bar with breathtaking views of the Acropolis and is just a 10-minute walk from the central sights.
- (€€) 👉 COCO-MAT Athens Jumelle: A beautiful, minimalist hotel that offers a delicious breakfast and immaculate rooms. The indoor pool and hammam are impeccably clean and make for a relaxing and comfortable stay.
4. Monastiraki
Monastiraki is a vibrant hub in Athens that is a lively counterpart to Syntagma Square. The area is teeming with tourists and offers a rich mix of stores, flea markets, restaurants and terraces, making it an ideal location for those who want to experience the energy of the city first hand.
Staying in Monastiraki puts you in the heart of Athens, within easy reach of major attractions such as Syntagma Square and the Acropolis, as well as the lively bars of Psiri and the nightlife of Gazi.
However, the liveliness of the area also comes with its pitfalls, including potential noise and crowds. Anyone considering a hotel in Monastiraki should read the reviews carefully, especially if they prefer a quieter environment.
Best hotels in Monastiraki
- (€€€) 👉 Altar-Suiten: An exceptional stay with breathtaking views of the Acropolis and the ancient Agora. I was delighted with the immaculately clean and comfortable rooms and the friendly and professional service. The prime location and tranquil atmosphere make it my first choice.
- (€€€) 👉 Mythodea Athens Suites: Exceptional stay with immaculate, luxurious suites and outstanding service in the heart of Athens. You will appreciate the excellent location, comfortable rooms and smooth communication with the hosts.
- (€) 👉 Kimon Hotel Athen: Ideal central location in a quiet and safe neighborhood near Monastiraki station. I appreciated the clean, comfortable rooms, the friendly staff and the rooftop garden with a beautiful view of the Acropolis.
5. Psiri, the best area for nightlife in Athens
Nestled between Monastiraki and Omonia Square lies Psiri, a neighborhood whose rubble and graffiti may be off-putting at first glance.
It doesn’t have the glitz of Kolonaki or the timeless beauty of Plaka, but Psiri shines in its own way, brimming with authenticity and vibrant life. For someone like me looking for a mix of convenience, a vibrant restaurant scene and lively nightlife, Psiri is an intriguing option.
Despite its worn and graffiti-covered appearance, I see Psiri as a safe and up-and-coming neighborhood whose charm is enhanced by its easy access to Athens’ main attractions.
The streets are lined with traditional tavernas and restaurants, some of which are crowded with tourists while others are known only to locals, all offering a feast of flavors and music that will delight any foodie.
At night, Psiri shines in a different light, offering a mix of beautifully decorated bars and terraces that are ideal for enjoying the Athenian nightlife.
To fully enjoy what Psiri has to offer, I stroll down Karaiskaki Street or explore Karytsi Square and its lively surroundings to soak up the infectious energy of the place.
Best Hotels in Psiri
- (€€) 👉 Ivis 4 Boutique Hotel
- (€) 👉 Athens Center Square Hotel
- (€) 👉 Attalos luxury flat
6. Koukaki, the best area to stay in Athens near the Acropolis
As a resident of Koukaki for the past six months, I have come to appreciate the lively yet peaceful atmosphere of this neighborhood. It is a delightful mix of residential and modern city life, nestled between Filopappou Hill and Syngrou Avenue.
This area offers an authentic local experience with charming bakeries, ice cream parlors and wine bars. A notable attraction is the EMST (Museum of Contemporary Art), housed in the historic FIX Brewery. It is a must-see for art lovers and showcases contemporary Greek art and international collaborations.
The pedestrian streets of Koukaki, Drakou and Olympiou invite you to take a leisurely stroll. For dining, we recommend the Lalos taverna with traditional dishes or the Park Bench with creative cuisine. For a casual treat, Django’s ice cream is a delight. Coffee lovers should try Laluk or Neratzia, and for an unforgettable evening, the Tiki Bar offers classic cocktails.
In terms of accommodation, Koukaki offers a good mix of rental apartments and hotels to suit different budgets and preferences.
Best Hotels in Koukaki
- (€€€) 👉 Coco-mat Athens BC
- (€€) 👉 Heritage Hill Hotel
- (€) 👉 Acropolis View Hotel
7. Exarcheia, the best area in Athens to live like a local
Exarcheia, located near the bustling Omonoia Square, is a unique blend of history and bohemian charm. Known for its role in the Polytechnic Uprising of 1973, this neighborhood offers an alternative flair and a vibrant cultural scene.
The neighborhood is a hub for an eclectic mix of cafes, bars, art galleries, indie theaters and bookstores that reflect the creative and diverse spirit of the city. Despite the modern café culture, Exarcheia has retained its strong, distinctive personality.
A highlight for visitors is the Saturday fruit and vegetable market on Kallidromiou Street. Not only can you find fresh produce here, but you can also immerse yourself in local life.
In terms of accommodation, Exarcheia offers a variety of affordable options, including mid-range hotels and rental apartments suitable for both short and long-term stays.
The best hotels in Exarcheia
- (€€€) 👉 Grecotel Pallas Athena
- (€€) 👉 Brown Acropol a member of Brown Hotels
- (€) 👉 Elikon
8. Metaxourgeio, budget-friendly accommodation in Athens
Metaxourgeio is a practical and relatively central option for anyone looking for cheap accommodation in Athens. While not one of the best areas in the city, it performs better than Omonia and has a higher safety rating. With proper security precautions after dark, Metaxourgeio is well worth considering for budget travelers.
If you compare prices, you’ll find that it’s possible to get 4-star hotels for cheaper than 3-star properties in Plaka. In addition, there is a selection of affordable, decent hotels. A hotel close to the metro station is definitely a plus.
However, if I had to choose between Omonia and Metaxourgeio, I would lean towards Omonia. The two are only a short walk apart, but given the location and proximity to the metro, Omonia seems more practical.
The best hotels in Metaxourgeio
- (€€€) 👉 Wyndham Grand Athens
- (€€) 👉 The Stanley
- (€) 👉 Hotel Katerina
9. Piraeus, the best area to stay in Athens when visiting the Greek islands
Interestingly, the port of Piraeus offers a large selection of hotels.
However, apart from the possibility of catching an early ferry to the islands, I don’t find it very appealing to stay here.
It is a residential area with three harbors – one for passengers and cargo, one for yachts and Mikrolimano, the picturesque fishing port where you can enjoy fresh seafood.
Personally, I would not recommend this area for a stay in Athens. It’s too remote, even with the new metro station (Dimotiko Theatro) that opened earlier this year.
The best hotels in Piraeus
- (€€€) 👉 Piraeus Theoxenia Hotel
- (€) 👉 Phidias Piraeus Hotel
- (€) 👉 Faros I Hotel
10. Glyfada, the best area to stay in Athens near the beach in summer
In the summer months, you should visit the coastal districts of the city, such as Glyfada. This area comes to life in the summer and offers a range of chic stores, good restaurants, bars and an abundance of entertainment both during the day and at night.
Much of the nightlife takes place in these areas during the summer months. Many clubs in the city center open their branches here. The only downside is the long drive to the city center.
For first-time visitors to the Greek capital, Glyfada may not be the most recommended location, but for repeat visitors who come in the summer and are looking for a different side of the city with a lively summer scene, it is a worthwhile consideration for a stay in Athens.
Glyfada offers a range of family-friendly hotels and accommodation, making it a great choice for families visiting Athens.
The best hotels in Glyfada
- (€€€) 👉 Glyfada Riviera Hotel
- (€€) 👉 Palace Hotel
Websites that I use to book my trips
- 👉 Agoda is my favourite site for booking hotels and unique stays.
- 👉 GetYourGuide is my top pick for booking tours and activities worldwide.
Questions about where to stay in Athens, Greece
Where is the best place to stay in Athens if you are coming to Athens for the first time?
According to the article, the best place for first-time visitors is Syntagma Square. It is the heart of Athens and offers easy access to the main sights and excellent public transport links. The area is full of bars and restaurants and is close to the Acropolis.
Where should tourists stay in Athens?
The article recommends Plaka and Anafiotika as the best areas for tourists who want to immerse themselves in the picturesque streets of Athens, close to the Acropolis and other major sights. Accommodation here can be expensive.
What is the best area to live in Athens?
The article does not specifically mention the best neighborhood, as this depends on individual preferences. However, it highlights Syntagma Square as ideal for first-time visitors, Plaka and Anafiotika for tourists, Kolonaki for a luxurious stay, Monastiraki for its vibrant atmosphere and Psiri for its authentic local experience and nightlife.
Where can you enjoy the nightlife in Athens?
The article suggests Psiri as the best area in Athens for nightlife. This up-and-coming neighborhood offers a mix of traditional tavernas and modern bars.
Where is the best place to stay in Athens near the Acropolis?
The article recommends Koukaki as the best area to stay near the Acropolis in a less touristy area. This neighborhood offers a local ambience and is within walking distance of the main sights.
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