While Greece is perhaps best known for its beautiful islands, the capital, Athens, has plenty to offer.
When planning a trip to Athens, choosing the right area to stay in is vital.
Whether you’re interested in classic landmarks, nightlife, or a mix of luxury and tranquillity, Athens has something for every traveller.
- There are, however, a few areas in Athens that tourists should steer clear of – and I’ll mention those at the end of this guide.
So, let’s get started with the guide: where should you stay in Athens? Below, I’ll share the best neighbourhoods and top hotel recommendations in each area.
Contents
- Best Areas in Athens
- 1. Plaka – Best Area for Historic Landmarks 🏛️
- Places to stay in Plaka
- 2. Monastiraki – Best Area for Shopping and Nightlife 🛍️
- Places to stay in Monastiraki
- 3. Kolonaki – Best Area for Luxury and Tranquillity 🌿
- Places to stay in Kolonaki
- Where not to stay? 3 areas to avoid ‼️
- Which area is best for first-time visitors?
- Where should you stay to enjoy Athens’ nightlife?
- Is Athens safe, and are there areas you should avoid?
Best Areas in Athens
If you’re in a hurry or just want the quick rundown, here are the best areas to stay in Athens:
- Plaka – Best Area for Historic Landmarks 🏛️
- Monastiraki – Best Area for Shopping and Nightlife 🛍️
- Kolonaki – Best Area for Luxury and Tranquillity 🌿
The guide continues below where I’ll dive into each area and recommend hotels in different price ranges.
1. Plaka – Best Area for Historic Landmarks 🏛️
Plaka is Athens’ oldest and most charming district, located right at the foot of the Acropolis.
The area is famous for its narrow, cobbled streets, pastel-colored houses, and iconic views of the Parthenon.
Plaka is ideal if you want to dive into Athenian history while enjoying a picturesque, traditional atmosphere.
Check out the best hotels in Plaka here.
Here in Plaka, you’ll find tavernas, small shops with local crafts, and plenty of cafés where you can unwind and soak in the scene.
Plaka is the top choice and the best area to stay in Athens for first-time visitors.
It offers a central base in historic Athens with easy access to iconic sights like the Acropolis, Parthenon, Roman Forum, and the Odeon of Herodes Atticus.
In the evening, you can enjoy a quiet stroll through the lit-up streets or have dinner with a view of the Acropolis towering over the city.
Why Stay Here?
- Close to major landmarks like the Acropolis and Parthenon.
- Authentic, charming neighborhood with small shops and Greek tavernas.
- Perfect for first-time visitors who want a central, walkable location.
Drawbacks:
- The area is very popular, so it’s also packed with tourists, especially in peak season.
- Prices can be higher than other neighborhoods due to the central location.
Places to stay in Plaka
Here are some of the best places to stay in the Plaka area.
Electra Palace Athens is a luxury hotel right in the heart of Plaka. It has a rooftop pool where you can enjoy the sunset over the Acropolis – a view worth the trip alone.
The hotel exudes classic elegance, and the rooms are spacious and inviting.
Past guests particularly praise the friendly and professional service, with many highlighting how perfectly located it is for exploring Athens on foot.
See more photos and book here.
Hotel Acropolis House is the perfect choice if you’re after authentic Greek charm without breaking the bank.
This cosy hotel in Plaka is just a stone’s throw from the Acropolis and offers a simple but warm atmosphere.
Guests are especially delighted by the homely feel and the extraordinarily helpful staff, who make you feel more like a friend than a guest.
See more photos and book here.
If you’re looking for a relaxed base right in the heart of Plaka, Central Athens Hotel is an excellent option.
Here, you’ll enjoy modern comforts and an impressive view from the rooftop terrace, where you can start your day with coffee or enjoy an evening cocktail overlooking the Acropolis.
Reviews often mention how convenient the location is for sightseeing and the calm atmosphere amidst the vibrant neighborhood.
See more photos and book here.
2. Monastiraki – Best Area for Shopping and Nightlife 🛍️
Monastiraki is one of Athens’s most lively and exciting areas, known for its iconic flea market, colourful streets, and buzzing nightlife.
The area is home to Monastiraki Market, where you can find everything from antiques to clothes and local crafts.
It’s a perfect area for those who love shopping but also want to experience a mix of modern and historic Athens.
See the best hotels in Monastiraki here.
The area has exciting bars and restaurants where you can try Greek street food and finer dishes.
Monastiraki is also close to several important landmarks, like Hadrian’s Library and the Ancient Agora, making it an excellent choice for those wanting to combine sightseeing with the city’s energetic nightlife.
Monastiraki transforms into one of the city’s hotspots in the evenings, where you’ll find everything from trendy cocktail bars to traditional tavernas.
Monastiraki is also just a short walk from Plaka and the Acropolis, so you get the best of both worlds within reach.
Why stay here?
- Perfect for those who love shopping and market life, with the famous Monastiraki Flea Market.
- Lively nightlife with plenty of bars and restaurants.
- Close to historic landmarks like Hadrian’s Library and the Agora.
Drawbacks:
- It can be very noisy in the evenings, especially on weekends.
- Not the best choice if you’re seeking peace and relaxation.
Places to stay in Monastiraki
Let’s look at a few good hotels in Monastiraki.
A for Athens offers the perfect combination of style and views.
This trendy boutique hotel in Monastiraki is especially known for its rooftop bar, where you can enjoy a panorama of the Acropolis that will take your breath away.
Guests love not only the cool atmosphere and the location right by the metro station but also the stylish rooms and the spectacular sunsets from the rooftop bar.
See more photos and book here.
With its location right on Monastiraki Square, 360 Degrees Hotel is a dream come true for those who want to be close to everything.
The hotel has a hip vibe and offers modern rooms with an urban style. Many guests highlight the informal atmosphere and the rooftop bar, which gives you a 360-degree view over Athens – hence the name.
It’s a perfect place to stay in Athens if you want to feel the city up close.
See more photos and book here.
The Zillers Boutique Hotel combines style, comfort, and an Acropolis view that’s hard to beat.
The rooms are elegantly decorated, and on the rooftop terrace, you’ll find a restaurant where the food and view come together beautifully.
Previous guests praise the personalised service and the atmosphere, which make the stay truly special -perfect for an unforgettable holiday in the heart of Monastiraki.
See more photos and book here.
Planning to travel more around Greece? Check out my full guide on where to stay in Crete.
3. Kolonaki – Best Area for Luxury and Tranquillity 🌿
Kolonaki is one of the most exclusive and sophisticated areas in Athens.
Known for its elegant cafés, high-end boutiques, and stylish streets, Kolonaki attracts locals and visitors seeking a more relaxed and luxurious experience.
Here, you can stroll through quiet streets lined with designer shops, stop by contemporary art galleries, or enjoy a coffee at one of the many refined cafés.
See the best hotels in Kolonaki here.
Kolonaki sits at the foot of Mount Lycabettus, which offers one of the best views over all of Athens.
A trip up the mountain, either by foot or by cable car, is a must if you’re staying in the area.
Kolonaki is also close to significant cultural institutions like the Benaki Museum and the Museum of Cycladic Art.
This area is ideal for those seeking a peaceful base away from the hustle and bustle of the city, while still being close to central Athens and cultural hotspots.
Why stay here?
- Luxurious and quiet neighbourhood, perfect for relaxation and comfort.
- Close to Mount Lycabettus, where you can enjoy stunning views of the city.
- Great for couples and those looking for a sophisticated experience with access to designer shops and museums.
Drawbacks:
- More expensive than other areas in Athens due to its exclusive location.
- Not the best choice if you’re looking for nightlife or markets.
Places to stay in Kolonaki
Let’s take a closer look at a few fantastic hotels in Kolonaki, where some of Athens’ best luxury hotels are located.
St George Lycabettus Hotel in Kolonaki epitomises luxury. Its location on Mount Lycabettus offers unparalleled views over Athens.
The hotel features elegant rooms, a spa, and a rooftop terrace with a pool, perfect for relaxation.
Guests love the peaceful atmosphere and the views from the rooms, which make you feel as if you have the whole city at your feet.
See more photos and book here.
Periscope Hotel is a chic and modern boutique hotel that appeals to those with a taste for minimalist design and a calm atmosphere.
Located among the city’s most sophisticated shops and cafés, this hotel offers stylish rooms that guests describe as comfortable and cosy.
It’s perfect if you’re looking for a trendy yet relaxed stay close to everything.
See more photos and book here.
Coco-Mat Hotel Athens provides a sustainable experience focused on luxury and design.
Using natural materials and featuring world-class beds, this hotel is ideal for those seeking tranquillity with an eco-friendly touch.
Located in the heart of Kolonaki, it’s perfect for enjoying Athens in style. Guests appreciate the hotel’s innovative concept and central location, which makes exploring the best of the city easy.
See more photos and book here.
Where not to stay? 3 areas to avoid ‼️
While Athens is generally a relatively safe and exciting city, there are a few areas that aren’t ideal for tourists, especially if you want a comfortable, hassle-free holiday.
Here are some areas to avoid due to safety issues, poor location, or a lack of tourist facilities.
Omonia
Omonia Square was once an important city hub, but today the area is marked by social and economic decline. Although there are some budget-friendly hotels here, it’s known for being less safe, especially at night, and there aren’t many nearby attractions.
If you’re looking for an authentic local experience, better alternatives like Monastiraki or Psiri offer lively but safer, more tourist-friendly atmospheres.
Exarchia
Exarchia is known as a more alternative neighbourhood with a strong youth and protest culture. The area attracts young locals and students, and its artistic and political scene can be interesting to some.
However, it’s also known for demonstrations and unrest, which may feel uncomfortable for tourists.
Although there are plenty of bars and cafés, it’s not a recommended area if you’re after a relaxed and secure holiday.
Budget hotels near the airport
Hotels close to Athens International Airport may seem convenient, especially if you’re arriving late or leaving early.
However, most of these hotels are far from the city centre and attractions, meaning you’ll spend a lot of time commuting to the places you want to visit.
If you want to experience Athens, it’s better to stay in the centre and take a taxi or metro to the airport when you’re ready to leave.
I hope you found this guide to the best areas in Athens helpful and are now ready for your trip to the Greek capital.
Here are a few frequently asked questions about Athens:
Which area is best for first-time visitors?
Plaka is the most popular area for first-time visitors, as it’s close to major historical attractions like the Acropolis and Parthenon. The area has an authentic atmosphere with its cobbled streets, cosy tavernas, and shops – perfect for experiencing Athens’ classic charm. Plus, it’s easy to walk to many key attractions.
Where should you stay to enjoy Athens’ nightlife?
Monastiraki and the nearby Psiri are the best areas if you want to explore Athens’ nightlife. Monastiraki is filled with bars, eateries, and a large flea market, while Psiri is known for its lively bars, alternative vibe, and colourful street art. Both areas offer a wide variety of restaurants and bars across all price ranges, though there’s some evening noise.
Is Athens safe, and are there areas you should avoid?
Athens is generally safe, but areas like Omonia can be less secure, especially at night, due to social and economic decline. Exarchia is known for its alternative environment and can sometimes be a centre for political demonstrations, which some travellers may want to avoid. Choosing a hotel in a more central and tourist-friendly area is recommended.
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