I’ll go through all of them here so you can choose the one that best suits your trip.

1. Metro (Line 3 – The Blue Line)

The metro is my preferred way to get from the airport to Athens. Line 3 runs directly from the airport to Syntagma (40 minutes) and on to Monastiraki (42 minutes) – both stations are right in the city centre, close to the Acropolis and Plaka.

A perfect starting point if you want to experience the best things to do in Athens.

Price and Tickets

A single ticket costs €9. A return ticket costs €16 and can be paid for straight away. Children, young people under 18 and seniors over 65 pay half price (€4.50). Important: a standard metro ticket at €1.20 does NOT apply on the route to and from the airport. You need a special airport ticket.

Since January 2025 you can also simply tap your contactless payment card (Visa or Mastercard) or your phone directly at the entrance.

The system is called Tap2Ride and automatically calculates the cheapest fare. Note that Maestro, Amex and other cards don’t work yet.

If you’re going to use public transport in Athens for several days, it may be worth buying a 3-day tourist pass for €20. It includes one return trip to the airport plus unlimited transport in the city for 72 hours. It’s available at ticket counters at the airport and at stations such as Syntagma, Monastiraki and Omonia.

Departures and Journey Time

The metro runs from the airport between 06:30 and 23:30, with departures every 36 minutes. The journey to Syntagma takes approximately 40 minutes. It’s fast, reliable and free from traffic – unlike a taxi, which can take over an hour during rush hour.

The metro station at the airport is easy to find. Follow the signs from the arrivals hall and you’re there in two minutes. Check the STASY website for current times, or see the airport’s transport page for a complete overview.

2. Airport Bus (X95, X96, X93, X97)

If you land late at night or early in the morning, the airport bus is your best bet. The buses run 24 hours a day, 7 days a week – including on public holidays. It’s the only public transport that operates when the metro is closed.

The Four Routes

There are four express routes from the airport:

X95 – the most popular. Runs directly to Syntagma Square in the city centre. Journey time: approximately 60 minutes. This is the one to take if you’re staying in the centre, near Plaka, Monastiraki or the Acropolis area.

X96 – runs directly to Piraeus Port. Journey time: approximately 90 minutes. Perfect if you’re continuing by ferry to the Greek islands (such as Crete, Corfu, Santorini or Mykonos).

X93 – runs to Kifissos Bus Station (KTEL). Journey time: approximately 65 minutes. Relevant if you’re continuing by long-distance bus to other parts of Greece.

X97 – runs to Elliniko Metro Station. Journey time: approximately 45 minutes. Most relevant if you’re staying in the southern part of Athens.

Price and Tickets

A single ticket costs €5.50 (€2.70 for children, young people and seniors). Tickets can be bought at the ticket booth outside the arrivals hall, between exits 4 and 5. You can also buy a ticket directly on the bus.

The buses stop at the Arrivals Level, and you can’t miss the stop. Follow the signs towards “Bus” from the baggage reclaim area. See current routes and timetables on the OASA website.

3. Suburban Train (Proastiakos)

The suburban train – Proastiakos – is an option most tourists overlook, but it can be practical in certain situations. The train connects the airport with Athens Central Station (Larissis Station) in approximately 45 minutes.

Trains depart every 15-25 minutes to Doukissis Plakentias station, where you can change to Metro Line 3 using the same ticket. It’s the same ticket as the metro airport ticket at €9.

Proastiakos is most relevant if you’re continuing by train out of Athens – for example to Corinth or Chalkida. For most tourists heading to the centre, however, the metro is the better choice because you avoid having to change.

More information about times and routes can be found on the Hellenic Trains website.

4. Taxi

A taxi is the easiest option, especially if you land with a lot of luggage or are travelling in a group. The taxi rank is just outside exit 3 in the arrivals hall – follow the yellow “TAXI” signs.

Prices

There are fixed prices from the airport to the city centre:

• Day rate (05:00-00:00): €40
• Night rate (00:00-05:00): €55

The prices include tolls, surcharges and VAT. Nothing should be added on top. If a driver tries to charge more, ask for a receipt – they’re required by law according to the airport’s official rules.

Important: the fixed price applies ONLY to central Athens (Plaka, Syntagma, Monastiraki and similar areas). If you’re heading to a different neighbourhood, the price may vary. Always agree on the price with the driver before you get in.

If you’re unsure which neighbourhood to stay in, I’ve written a massive guide on where to stay in Athens.

Journey Time

Allow 35-50 minutes depending on traffic. During rush hour (approximately 07:30-10:00 and 16:00-19:30 on weekdays) it can take longer. The metro is actually faster during those periods.

5. Private Transfer and Uber

If you want to avoid the taxi queue and have a driver waiting for you with a name sign, you can book a private transfer in advance. It costs a little more than a taxi, but it gives you peace of mind – especially if you land late, have a lot of luggage, or are travelling with children.

You can book a private transfer from Athens Airport via GetYourGuide. The driver tracks your flight and adjusts the pick-up time if the flight is delayed.

Uber exists in Athens but in practice works through local, licensed taxi drivers. Prices follow the fixed airport rate, so there’s no significant saving compared to a regular taxi from the rank.

Which Should You Choose? My Top Advice

Here’s my recommendation based on different situations:

For most people: Take the metro. It’s fast, cheap and runs directly to the city centre. €9, 40 minutes, no stress with traffic. Especially if you’re staying near Syntagma or Monastiraki, it’s a no-brainer.

If you land at night: Take the X95 bus to Syntagma. It runs all night, and €5.50 is hard to beat. The journey takes a bit longer, but it’s your only public transport option after 23:30.

If you’re heading to Piraeus Port: Take the X96 bus directly from the airport. You can also take the metro all the way (Line 3 now runs directly to Piraeus), but the bus is cheaper.

If there are 3-4 of you: A taxi at €40 during the day is actually good value when you split it. That’s €10 per person – only one euro more than the metro – and you’re driven straight to your hotel.

If you want it easy: Book a private transfer in advance. Particularly smart for late arrivals or if you have children and suitcases.

Practical Travel Tips for Airport Transport in Athens

Download the Athens Transport app before you travel. It shows real-time information for the metro and buses. You can also use Google Maps, which is quite accurate for public transport in Athens.

Have cash ready for the bus if your card isn’t Visa or Mastercard. The ticket sales at the airport do also accept cards, however.

Watch out for pickpockets on the metro – especially at Acropolis station and Syntagma, where it’s packed with tourists. Keep an eye on your belongings and don’t keep your wallet in your back pocket. It’s no worse than other major cities, but common sense is always a good idea.

Rush hour in Athens is brutal. Avoid taxis between 07:30-10:00 and 16:00-19:30 on weekdays if you can. The metro isn’t affected by traffic and is clearly the smartest choice during those periods.

If you want to stay close to a metro station so the city centre is easy to reach from the airport, you can see hotels near Syntagma here. Plaka and Monastiraki are also great bases – both are within walking distance of the metro station.

Check out all my Greece Travel Guides here.

The post Athens Airport to City Centre – Complete Transport Guide 🇬🇷 appeared first on Destination Well Known.

Here are my top picks for things to see and do in the Greek capital.

1. The Acropolis and the Parthenon

Let’s start with the elephant in the room. The Acropolis is the reason most people book a flight to Athens in the first place – and rightly so. The limestone hill with the Parthenon on top is simply one of the most impressive things you’ll ever see. The Parthenon was built in the 5th century BC as a temple to the goddess Athena, and although it’s taken a few knocks over the years, it’s still enormous.

A ticket costs €30 for adults (the price increased in April 2025, and there’s no longer a winter discount). You need to choose a time slot when booking online, and I strongly recommend you do. The queue at the entrance can be brutal, especially in the middle of the day. My best advice: book the earliest time slot and use the south entrance on Dionysiou Areopagitou Street, a two-minute walk from Akropoli metro station. It’s far less chaotic than the main entrance. Opening hours vary by season – in summer (April to October) 08:00-20:00, in winter 08:00-17:00. Allow 1.5-2 hours for the visit itself.

Book a guided tour of the Acropolis with entry – it makes the experience significantly better when a guide can tell the stories behind the temples.

2. The Acropolis Museum

Credit where credit’s due: this museum is just as important as the Acropolis itself. It sits at the foot of the hill and houses over 4,000 finds from the excavations. The building itself is an experience – you literally walk on glass floors and can look down at archaeological excavations beneath you.

The top floor is the wildest part. Here you’ll find a full-size recreation of the Parthenon frieze, and you can look out at the real Parthenon through the windows. Tickets cost €15 in high season (April-October) and €10 in low season.

• Important: the ticket to the Acropolis Museum is not included in your Acropolis ticket. They’re two separate things. The museum has its own website with information about opening hours.

Don’t use your camera in the Archaic Gallery hall – it’s not permitted there because the sculptures still have traces of their original colours.

3. Plaka – Athens’ Oldest Quarter

Plaka is the oldest inhabited quarter in Athens, and it feels like an entirely different world from the rest of the city. The cars have (almost) disappeared, and instead you’ll find narrow cobblestone alleyways, neoclassical houses with flowering balconies and small Byzantine churches tucked away around corners.

Take a walk along Lysiou Street, where the scent of Greek coffee and freshly baked pastries hangs in the air. Plaka is perfect for a morning stroll before the tourist coaches arrive. The quarter sits between the Acropolis and Syntagma Square, so you can reach both on foot in under 15 minutes. There are plenty of souvenir shops here – most are overpriced, but the flea market in Plaka is actually quite charming if you’re into old drachma coins and tavli board games.

If you want to stay right in the thick of things, check out the hotels in the Plaka quarter. The location is hard to beat.

Also check out my guide on where to stay in Athens with more area and hotel recommendations.

4. Anafiotika – The Hidden Island Village

This is one of those things that only locals know about – and now you know it too. Anafiotika is a small pocket of whitewashed houses clinging to the north side of the Acropolis hill. It literally feels like a Greek island in the middle of Athens.

The story is fantastic: in the 1830s, construction workers came from the tiny island of Anafi (which today has roughly 271 inhabitants) to build the royal palace. They missed their island, so they built a miniature version of it – complete with whitewashed facades, blue doors and flowering courtyards.

Today only 45 houses remain, but that’s enough to make you feel like you’ve stepped into a time capsule. Just walk up the steps from Plaka and follow the narrow alleyways. There are no signs, no tickets, no queues. Just you and quiet streets with the scent of basil.

5. The Changing of the Guard at Syntagma Square

In front of the Greek Parliament on Syntagma Square, the Evzone soldiers stand guard at the Tomb of the Unknown Soldier. Every hour there’s a changing of the guard with a rather special ceremony, where the soldiers in their traditional uniforms (complete with pom-pom shoes) perform a synchronised march.

But it’s Sunday at 11:00 that you really need to come. That’s when there’s a full parade with an entire platoon of soldiers marching up to the tomb with a military band. It’s free, it’s colourful, and it’s one of the most photographed events in Athens.

Arrive 15-20 minutes early to get a good spot. Syntagma Square is also a good starting point for walking down Ermou Street, Athens’ main shopping street.

6. The Ancient Agora and the Temple of Hephaestus

Many tourists settle for the Acropolis and completely miss the Ancient Agora, which sits just below it. That’s a shame, because this is where real life took place in ancient Athens. The Agora was the city’s marketplace, courthouse and social gathering point. Socrates debated here. Democracy was practised here.

The Temple of Hephaestus, which sits at the edge of the Agora, is actually better preserved than the Parthenon. It’s almost complete and gives you a better sense of what an ancient Greek temple actually looked like. Since the combination ticket was abolished in April 2025, you need to buy a separate ticket for the Agora.

• Check prices and opening hours on the Greek Ministry of Culture’s website.

7. Monastiraki Square and the Flea Market

Monastiraki is Athens’ beating heart. The square is named after the small monastery (now a church) that sits in the middle of it, and from here you can see the Acropolis towering behind. On Sundays the area explodes into a huge flea market where you can find everything from vintage vinyl records to handmade jewellery and antique coins.

But Monastiraki is also fantastic on a completely ordinary day. Grab a souvlaki from one of the stalls (try Thanasis by the square – it’s legendary) and sit on a bench with a view of the Acropolis. In the evening the square buzzes with street performers and live music.

From here it’s also a short walk to the Psyrri quarter and Varvakios Central Market.

8. Psyrri – Street Art, Bars and Nightlife

Psyrri is Monastiraki’s cool older brother. The quarter was once a grim industrial area, but today it’s one of Athens’ most exciting neighbourhoods. The street art is incredible – entire buildings are covered in colourful murals by local artists. And in the evening, the quarter’s narrow streets transform into a festival of rooftop bars, creative meze restaurants and cocktail bars.

Iroon Square is the quarter’s gathering point, where all generations hang out well into the night. Also pop by the eccentric Little Kook cafe, which changes theme by season – it’s Instagram gold, even if you’re not into coffee.

And if you want to experience the real Athenian food scene, head up Athanais Street to Varvakios Central Market – Athens’ answer to a giant food market where local chefs and housewives compete for the best meat, fish and vegetables.

9. Food Tour Through Athens’ Streets

Greek food is far more than gyros and moussaka (although both are fantastic). A food tour is one of the best ways to experience Athens, because it takes you to places you’d never find on your own. You’ll taste koulouri (sesame bread rings), spanakopita (spinach pie with feta), loukoumades (Greek mini-doughnuts with honey) and of course proper souvlaki from local spots.

I recommend a food tour that takes you through Monastiraki, Psyrri and down around the central market.

This popular food walking tour lasts 3.5 hours and includes 8-10 tastings. Come hungry. Seriously.

10. Areopagus Hill – The Best View in Athens

Here’s my honest tip for the best free experience in Athens: go up to Areopagus Hill (also known as Mars Hill) at sunset. It’s a large smooth rock outcrop just below the Acropolis, and the view is utterly absurd.

You can see all of Athens spreading out below you, with the Acropolis lit up behind.

The rock is low enough that the walk only takes five minutes, and it’s completely free. In the evening, locals and tourists sit side by side with wine and snacks enjoying the sunset. Be careful – the rock has been worn smooth by millions of feet, so tread carefully, especially if it’s been raining.

You’ll find the entrance right by the main entrance to the Acropolis on Theorias Street.

11. Temple of Olympian Zeus (Olympieion)

This temple was once the largest in the entire ancient world. Construction started in the 6th century BC, but it took over 600 years to complete – it was only finished under the Roman Emperor Hadrian. Today 15 enormous columns remain of the original 104, and they’re impressive. Each column is 17 metres tall.

The temple is a short walk from the Acropolis, right by the famous Hadrian’s Arch, which marked the boundary between ancient Athens and Hadrian’s new city. A separate ticket is required since the combination ticket was abolished.

12. Panathenaic Stadium (Kallimarmaro)

This is the only stadium in the world built entirely from white marble. It’s ancient – it was built in 330 BC and rebuilt in marble in 144 AD. But it’s most famous for hosting the opening and closing ceremonies of the first modern Olympic Games in 1896. And in 2004 it was used again for the Olympics.

You can walk around on the track and stand on the very spot where athletes stood over 2,000 years ago. There’s also a small museum about the Olympic Games beneath the stands. The stadium is still the finish line for the Athens Classic Marathon.

Check current prices and opening hours on the stadium’s official website.

13. Lycabettus Hill

If you want a panoramic view over all of Athens (and on a clear day all the way to the sea and the Saronic Islands), then Lycabettus Hill is the place. It’s Athens’ highest point at 277 metres, and the view from the top is spectacular – especially at sunset.

You can walk up (it takes about 30-45 minutes from the Kolonaki quarter), or you can take the funicular. At the top you’ll find the small whitewashed Church of St. George and a restaurant with a view. The funicular runs from Aristippou Street in Kolonaki. Wear good shoes – the path is uneven.

14. National Archaeological Museum

If you only have time for one museum besides the Acropolis Museum, choose this one. The National Archaeological Museum is one of the world’s most important museums for ancient Greek art and culture. The collection is enormous – from the golden Mask of Agamemnon to fantastic bronze sculptures and ceramics that are thousands of years old.

The museum is located in the Exarchia quarter, slightly north of the centre. Allow at least 2-3 hours if you want to see it properly. It’s a perfect alternative on a rainy or heatwave day.

15. Exarchia – The Alternative Athens

Exarchia is Athens’ most controversial quarter – and that’s precisely why it’s exciting. It’s the university neighbourhood, filled with students, artists, bookshops, vinyl stores and alternative bars. Street art is everywhere, and the atmosphere is completely different from the polished tourist areas.

The quarter is known for its political activism and bohemian vibe. Here you’ll find cheap and fantastic food, unique cafes and a nightlife that starts late and finishes very late. The Exarchia Farmers’ Market on Saturdays is an experience in itself.

Just be aware that the quarter can be a bit rough around the edges, and there are occasional demonstrations.

16. Philopappos Hill

Let me save you some time: if you want the iconic view of the Acropolis that you know from all the postcards, this is where you need to go. Philopappos Hill sits southwest of the Acropolis and offers the best frontal view of the Parthenon.

The walk up takes 15-20 minutes along a path lined with pine and olive trees. At the top you’ll find the Philopappos Monument from the 2nd century. The best time is late afternoon, when the sun is low and bathes the Acropolis in golden light.

Free entry, no tickets needed.

17. Cape Sounion and the Temple of Poseidon

Okay, this one technically isn’t in Athens, but it’s one of the best day trips you can take from the city. Cape Sounion is about 70 km southeast of Athens, on the southernmost tip of the Attica peninsula. Here the Temple of Poseidon sits on a cliff 60 metres above the Aegean Sea.

The temple dates from 444 BC and the view is absolutely mind-blowing – especially at sunset, when the sea changes colour behind the white marble columns. The drive along the coast is an experience in itself with lovely beaches and coastal towns along the way.

Book a half-day trip to Cape Sounion if you haven’t hired a car.

18. Rooftop Bars with Acropolis Views

Athens is the world’s best city for rooftop bars. And the reason is simple: no matter which direction you look, there’s a good chance you can see the Acropolis. A cocktail with the illuminated Parthenon in the background is one of those experiences you’ll remember.

A for Athens on Monastiraki Square is the most well-known (and most touristy). If you want a bit more local atmosphere, try the rooftop bars in the Koukaki or Thissio quarters. Prices are Athens prices – meaning far cheaper than you’d pay in Copenhagen, London or Paris. Expect to pay 10-14 euros for a cocktail with the best view in town.

If you want to stay at a hotel with a rooftop bar and Acropolis views, check out the hotels around Monastiraki.

19. Stavros Niarchos Foundation Cultural Center

If you need a break from ancient ruins (it happens to all of us), head to the Stavros Niarchos Foundation Cultural Center. It’s a modern architectural masterpiece designed by Renzo Piano, and it houses an opera house, a national library and a fantastic park with sea views.

The park is free and perfect for a relaxed afternoon. There are fountains, labyrinth-like gardens and an artificial canal where children (and adults) can play with model boats. In summer there are free concerts and events. It’s slightly outside the centre by Kallithea, but easy to reach by bus or metro.

Check their website for current events.

20. A Day on the Athenian Riviera

Most people don’t know this, but Athens has a coastline. The Athenian Riviera stretches from Faliro Bay down to Vouliagmeni and onwards towards Cape Sounion. Here you’ll find beach clubs, waterfront fish restaurants and a completely different atmosphere from the centre.

Lake Vouliagmeni is a natural thermal pool surrounded by cliffs and greenery – perfect for a swim. And if you just want sand between your toes, there are lovely beaches all along the coast. The tram line runs from Syntagma Square all the way down to the coast, so you don’t need a car. It’s the perfect complement to a week of temple ruins and museums.

Practical Travel Tips for Athens

Tickets: The old combination ticket for Athens’ archaeological sites was unfortunately abolished in April 2025. You now need to buy separate tickets for each site. Book online in advance at Hellenic Heritage to avoid queues. The Acropolis requires time-slot booking.

Transport: The metro in Athens is cheap, efficient and covers most of the sights. Line 2 (red) stops at Akropoli station.

Heat: In summer Athens can get extremely hot (40+ degrees is not uncommon). The Acropolis has even closed during midday heatwaves in 2025. Plan your outdoor visits for early morning or late afternoon. Carry water everywhere.

When should you go? Spring (April-June) and autumn (September-November) are the best periods. The weather is perfect, prices are lower and there are fewer tourists. July and August are hot and packed.

Money: Athens is generally cheaper than most Western European capitals. A solid souvlaki costs 3-4 euros, a beer at a bar 4-6 euros, and a proper dinner for two can be had for 40-50 euros.

Have a fantastic trip to Athens.

The post 20 Best Things to Do in Athens – Famous Sights & Hidden Local Gems 🇬🇷 appeared first on Destination Well Known.

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.

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.

Check out my guide on the best things to do in Athens when you’ve found a nice place to stay.

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.

• Check out my guide on how to get from Athens Airport to the City Centre

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:

The post Where to Stay in Athens? The 3 Best Areas & Places to Stay + Avoid! 🇬🇷 appeared first on Destination Well Known.