Where to Stay in Athens in 2025 – Best Areas Recomended by a Local

Discover the best areas to stay in Athens, whether you're a first-time visitor or a veteran. My Athens neighborhood guide demystifies how to decide where to stay in Athens, based on my experience living here for the last 3 years.
Where to Stay in Athens - 10 BEST AREAS

I felt inspired to write this guide on where to stay in Athens, Greece, after reading so many articles on the subject that just didn’t seem to capture the true essence of the city.

From misleading photos to vague descriptions, I realized many visitors might not be getting the most accurate advice.

So, as a 3+ year resident of this city, I took it upon myself to write this post on the best places to stay in Athens.

Best places to stay in Athens

Read on for my Athens neighborhood guide, including affordable accommodation with the best locations in Athens for exploring the city – that also won’t bust your budget. 

Syntagma at night (photo: Pantelis Kakaris)

Syntagma first time

Perfect for first-time visitors looking for luxury and easy access to transport, including the airport bus. Its central location makes it ideal for exploring Athens’ top sites and shopping areas.

Shopping in Plaka (photo: Pantelis Kakaris)

Plaka tourists

A must-visit for tourists, Plaka is the most charming and historic neighborhood in Athens. Its proximity to the Acropolis and picturesque streets make it highly popular.

My favorite cafe in Kolonaki (photo: Pantelis Kakaris)

Kolonaki luxury

Known for luxury and high-end shopping, Kolonaki offers a blend of chic restaurants and local culture. It’s a great place for visitors looking to experience a more refined side of Athens.

Monastiraki Square

Monastiraki shopping

A hotspot for shopping and nightlife, Monastiraki offers easy access to transport and stunning Acropolis views. It’s perfect for those who want a lively and central location.

Iroon Square in Psiri

Psiri nightlife

Psiri offers a vibrant nightlife with a more local vibe, attracting both tourists and residents. Psiri is full of lively tavernas and bars, perfect for those who want to enjoy Athens’ nightlife scene.

The charming neighborhood of Koukaki (photo: Pantelis Kakaris)

Koukaki families

A quiet, family-friendly neighborhood near the Acropolis, Koukaki offers budget accommodation with a local feel. It’s a great option for those seeking a peaceful stay close to the city’s main attractions.

Typical street in Exarcheia Neighborhood

Exarcheia local vibe

A bohemian, alternative neighborhood, Exarcheia is a hub for hipsters and those who enjoy local nightlife and counterculture. It’s perfect for those seeking a vibrant, artistic atmosphere.

Paramithias street in Metaxourgeio

Metaxourgeio on a budget

This neighborhood is budget-friendly but less safe, offering more affordable accommodation options. It’s an emerging artistic area, but visitors should be cautious at night.

Map with the best areas to stay in Athens
Map with the best areas to stay in Athens

⚠️ Make sure to read until the end to discover the areas you should avoid staying in as well.

1. Syntagma Square, best area to stay in Athens for first-timers

Syntagma at night (photo: Pantelis Kakaris)
Syntagma at night (photo: Pantelis Kakaris)
Nightlife:
4.3/5
Shopping:
4.9/5
Sightseeing:
4.5/5
Safety:
4.8/5
Transportation:
5/5

For a first-time visit to Athens, Syntagma Square is undoubtedly the best area to stay. While Plaka often receives praise as an excellent choice, Syntagma Square and its surroundings truly stand out, offering a prime location with a vibrant atmosphere, central access to major attractions, and a variety of accommodations to suit all preferences.

Furthermore, Syntagma Square is an ideal place to stay in Athens for a night or two due to its excellent transportation links. As the heart of the city, it provides convenient access to the metro and the budget-friendly X95 bus, connecting you easily to various locales and the airport. This makes it a practical and strategic choice for short stays.

From Syntagma, all the charming neighborhoods are just a hop, skip, and a jump away. Imagine sipping your morning coffee and then strolling to the charming lanes of Plaka in 5-10 minutes, or wandering to the buzzing bars of Monastiraki and Psiri in a relaxed quarter of an hour. 

And if it’s a taste of Athenian elegance you’re after, the upscale neighborhood of Kolonaki sits just next door. The bonus? The entrance to the Acropolis via Plaka, which I’d heartily recommend, is tantalizingly close.

A vibrant tapestry of commerce, Syntagma Square offers a smorgasbord of bars and restaurants, making it an ideal base for exploring Athens’ iconic landmarks. 

It’s a launchpad to diverse nightlife zones, all within a comfortable walk, ensuring your Athenian nights are as captivating as the days. Oh, and let’s not forget – it’s as safe as houses.

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Best Hotels in Syntagma Square

  • (€€€) Hotel Grande Bretagne: If you want a luxurious stay in Athens, the Grande Bretagne is perfect. The rooms are spacious, the rooftop terrace has great Acropolis views, and they offer events like high tea and live music. There’s also a spa for relaxing.
  • (€€€) Gatsby Athens: Great 5 star hotel. Great location. Great staff. Great amenities.
  • (€) Arethusa Hotel: I’ve always had a soft spot for roof gardens, and the panoramic views of the Acropolis from theirs are simply breathtaking.

2. Plaka, best area to stay in Athens as a tourist

Shopping in Plaka (photo: Pantelis Kakaris)
Shopping in Plaka (photo: Pantelis Kakaris)
Nightlife:
4/5
Shopping:
4/5
Sightseeing:
4.5/5
Safety:
4.5/5
Transportation:
4/5

Plaka is one of Athens’ most beautiful neighborhoods, making it a perfect spot for anyone visiting the city for the first time. Located just beneath the Acropolis, it’s a central part of old Athens, filled with souvenir shops, traditional taverns, and inviting cafes surrounded by historical landmarks.

The charm of Plaka is in its narrow streets and neoclassical buildings, which create a village-like feel amidst the bustling city. Anafiotika, the upper part of Plaka, is especially peaceful, with whitewashed houses and quiet spots perfect for strolling without the hassle of traffic.

As one of the most popular areas for tourists, Plaka tends to fill up quickly, especially during summer. It’s best to plan ahead and book early if you want to stay here. The neighborhood offers a wide range of accommodation options, from luxurious boutique hotels to more affordable hostels, making it suitable for all budgets.

Plaka’s location is another great advantage. You’re just a 5-10 minute walk from the Acropolis, depending on where you stay. The area is also well connected with public transport, with both Syntagma and Acropolis metro stations nearby, making it easy to get around and explore the rest of the city.

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Best Hotels in Plaka

  • (€€€) Electra Palace Hotel: It’s in a perfect location, super close to all the main sights, and the rooftop restaurant has the most amazing view of the Acropolis—especially at night! They also serve a fantastic breakfast.
  • (€€) Ergon House: A 4-star hotel just 500m from Monastiraki Square and Plaka center, offers a unique stay with a fitness centre, private parking, and on-site dining options.
  • (€) Adam’s Hotel Adam’s Hotel is an ideal and budget friendly base for exploring Athens. Some rooms are enjoying Acropolis views.

3. Kolonaki, best area in Athens for a luxurious stay

My favorite cafe in Kolonaki (photo: Pantelis Kakaris)
My favorite cafe in Kolonaki (photo: Pantelis Kakaris)
Nightlife:
4.5/5
Shopping:
4.5/5
Sightseeing:
3.5/5
Safety:
4.7/5
Transportation:
3.5/5

Kolonaki is Athens’ most aristocratic neighborhood, nestled between the National Garden and Lycabettus Hill, the city’s highest point. It’s conveniently close to the Parliament and Syntagma Square, making it a prime location for those interested in politics and business.

This area is renowned for its upscale boutiques, sophisticated bars, gourmet restaurants, and art galleries. It’s an ideal spot for shopping, enjoying fine dining, or exploring art.

A unique feature of Kolonaki is the opportunity to ascend Lycabettus Hill, either on foot or by funicular, offering stunning views of Athens. The neighborhood also houses notable museums like the Museum of Cycladic Art and the Byzantine Museum.

For those willing to invest a bit more in their stay, Kolonaki offers luxurious accommodations. While the area is known for its high-end hotels, early booking might reveal some reasonably priced rental apartments.

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Best Hotels in Kolonaki

  • (€€€) Hotel Lozenge A gem in the heart of Athens, offering an unbeatable central location on a pedestrian street. The rooms are noted for their comfort, tasteful decor, and exceptional cleanliness, featuring spacious bathrooms. The breakfast is a highlight, with a rich variety of options available until 11:00 AM, ensuring a delightful start to the day. 
  • (€€€) Academias Hotel, Autograph Collection: This 5-star hotel merges luxury with practicality, featuring chic, quiet, well-equipped rooms. It also boasts a well-stocked lobby bar, a rooftop bar with stunning Acropolis views, and is conveniently located within a 10-minute walk from central attractions.
  • (€€) COCO-MAT Athens Jumelle: A beautifully minimalistic space, offering a delightful breakfast and spotless rooms. The indoor pool and hammam are impeccably clean, ensuring a relaxing and comfortable stay.

Insider's Tip: one thing to keep in mind is that Kolonaki is quite hilly. If you’re staying here, expect a lot of uphill walking, especially when exploring its charming streets. Additionally, there’s no metro station directly in Kolonaki, so if you're not a fan of walking or don’t want to rely on taxis, this neighborhood may not be the most convenient choice for you.

4. Monastiraki, best area for shopping

Monastiraki square
Monastiraki square
Nightlife:
4.5/5
Shopping:
5/5
Sightseeing:
4.2/5
Safety:
3.5/5
Transportation:
4.5/5

Monastiraki is a vibrant hub in Athens, serving as a lively counterpart to Syntagma’s central role. The area is teeming with tourists and offers a rich mix of shops, flea markets, eateries, and outdoor dining terraces, making it an ideal spot for those who want to experience the city’s energy up close.

Staying in Monastiraki places you at the heart of Athens, within easy reach of major attractions like Syntagma Square and the Acropolis, as well as the lively bars of Psiri and Gazi’s nightlife.

However, the area’s vibrancy comes with its challenges, including potential noise and crowds. Those considering a hotel in Monastiraki should carefully read reviews, particularly if a quieter environment is preferred.

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Best Hotels in Monastiraki

  • (€€€) Altar Suites: An exceptional stay with stunning views of the Acropolis and Ancient Agora. I loved the impeccably clean and comfortable room, alongside the friendly and professional service. Its prime location and serene atmosphere make it a top choice for me.
  • (€€€) Mythodea Athens Suites: Exceptional stay with spotless, luxurious suites and outstanding service in the heart of Athens. You’ll appreciate the excellent location, comfortable rooms, and seamless communication from the hosts.
  • (€) Kimon Hotel Athens: Ideal central location in a quiet and safe area near Monastiraki station. I appreciated the clean, comfortable rooms, friendly staff, and the roof garden with beautiful views of the Acropolis.

5. Psiri, best area to stay in Athens for nightlife

Iroon Square in Psiri
Iroon Square in Psiri
Nightlife:
5/5
Shopping:
4/5
Sightseeing:
3.8/5
Safety:
3.9/5
Transportation:
4.5/5

Nestled between Monastiraki and Omonia Square lies Psiri, a neighborhood whose grit and graffiti may give pause at first glance.

It lacks the polish of Kolonaki and the timeless beauty of Plaka, but Psiri shines in its own right, brimming with authenticity and vibrant local life. For someone like me, looking for a mix of convenience, a dynamic dining scene, and lively nightlife, Psiri is an intriguing option.

Despite its appearance of being worn and graffiti-covered, I see Psiri as a safe and emerging area, its charm magnified by its easy access to Athens’ top sights.

The streets are lined with traditional tavernas and restaurants, some bustling with tourists, others hidden gems known mostly to locals, all offering a feast of flavors and music that’s a delight to any food enthusiast.

At night, Psiri comes alive in a different light, hosting a mix of beautifully decorated bars and terraces ideal for enjoying Athens’ nightlife.

To really soak in what Psiri has to offer, I wander down Karaiskaki street or explore Karytsi Square and its lively surroundings, catching the infectious energy of the place.

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Best Hotels in Psiri

6. Koukaki, best area to stay in Athens near Acropolis

The charming neighborhood of Koukaki (photo: Pantelis Kakaris)
The charming neighborhood of Koukaki (photo: Pantelis Kakaris)
Nightlife:
4.5/5
Shopping:
4/5
Sightseeing:
4.5/5
Safety:
4.2/5
Transportation:
4.5/5

As a resident of Koukaki for the past six months, I’ve come to appreciate this neighborhood’s vibrant yet peaceful atmosphere. It’s a delightful mix of residential and modern urban 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’s a must-visit for art enthusiasts, showcasing Greek contemporary art and international collaborations.

Koukaki’s pedestrian streets, Drakou and Olympiou, are perfect for leisurely strolls. For dining, consider Lalos Tavern for traditional fare or Park Bench for creative cuisine. For a casual treat, Django’s ice cream is a delight. Coffee lovers should try Laluk or Neratzia, and for a memorable evening, the Tiki Bar offers classic cocktails.

In terms of accommodation, Koukaki provides a good mix of rental apartments and hotels, suitable for various budgets and preferences.

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View of Acropolis from Herodion Hotel (photo: Pantelis Kakaris)
View of Acropolis from Herodion Hotel (photo: Pantelis Kakaris)

Best Hotels in Koukaki

7. Exarcheia, best area in Athens to live like a local

Typical street in Exarcheia Neighborhood
Typical street in Exarcheia Neighborhood (photo: Pantelis Kakaris)
Nightlife:
4.5/5
Shopping:
3.5/5
Sightseeing:
3.5/5
Safety:
3/5
Transportation:
4/5

Exarcheia, nestled near 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 area is a hub for an eclectic mix of cafes, bars, art galleries, indie theaters, and bookstores, reflecting its creative and diverse spirit. Despite its modern cafe culture, Exarcheia maintains its strong, distinctive personality.

A highlight for visitors is the Saturday fruit and vegetable market on Kallidromiou Street. It’s more than just a place for fresh produce; it’s an opportunity to immerse yourself in local life.

In terms of accommodations, Exarcheia offers a variety of affordable options, including mid-range hotels and rental apartments, catering to both short-term and long-term stays.

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Best Hotels in Exarcheia

Insider's Tip: Avoid staying here around November 17th and December 6th, as the neighborhood becomes the center of large annual protests on these dates. It’s also advisable to avoid accommodation northwest of Harilaou Trikoupi Street, as this part of Exarcheia tends to be less traveler-friendly. The area may not be the best choice for families or solo female travelers due to its gritty reputation.

8. Metaxourgeio, Budget-friendly Accommodation in Athens

Paramithias street in Metaxourgeio
Paramithias street in Metaxourgeio (photo: Pantelis Kakaris)
Nightlife:
4/5
Shopping:
3/5
Sightseeing:
3/5
Safety:
2.5/5
Transportation:
4/5

Metaxourgeio offers a solid and relatively central option for travelers seeking budget-friendly accommodation in Athens. While it might not be one of the city’s most sought-after neighborhoods, it provides affordable lodging without compromising too much on location. However, this area is not recommended for families or solo travelers, as it can feel a bit rough around the edges. 

Safety is a consideration, and it’s advisable not to walk alone at night. Instead, using a taxi for evening transportation is a good idea to ensure you feel secure.

One of the advantages of staying in Metaxourgeio is the potential to find 4-star hotels at prices lower than 3-star options in more popular areas like Plaka. There’s a good selection of reasonably priced hotels, and being close to a metro station is definitely a plus for easy access to the rest of the city.

For budget-conscious travelers who don’t mind staying just outside the tourist hotspots, Metaxourgeio can be a practical option with the right precautions.

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Best Hotels in Metaxourgeio

FAQ

Athens is a wonderfully family-friendly city, teeming with child-appropriate attractions that blend fun with education.

When it comes to neighborhoods, most of Athens is quite family-friendly. I’d probably steer clear of Exarcheia due to frequent demonstrations, and Psirri and Gazi for their bustling nightlife.

For families with young children, Plaka is fantastic with its pedestrian streets. Thiseio is another great choice, offering green spaces and pedestrian areas. And for beach lovers, Palaio Faliro is perfect, with its beachfront and parks, including the one at the Stavros Niarchos Center.

Kolonaki, Koukaki, and Pagkrati are also good options, though they can be a bit tricky to navigate with kids due to traffic. Glyfada is equally family-friendly, albeit a bit farther from the city center.

Finally, a word of caution: Omonia may seem like an attractive option due to its low hotel prices, but it’s not the best place to stay. The area has a reputation for being less comfortable, especially at night, due to ongoing social issues, including a noticeable drug problem. While it’s not necessarily unsafe, it’s not the most pleasant neighborhood for a holiday.

If you are determined to stay here because of the budget, it’s recommended that you take a taxi back to your hotel at night. However, this might defeat the purpose of saving money on accommodation, as you’ll end up spending on transportation.

The Acropolis Museum (photo: Pantelis Kakaris)
The Acropolis Museum (photo: Pantelis Kakaris)

So, which is the BEST neighborhood to stay in Athens?

In this guide, I’ve highlighted some of the best and most central neighborhoods in Athens, based on my personal experience of living in this incredible city. Whether you’re looking for ancient history, vibrant nightlife, or picturesque streets, Athens has something for everyone. No matter where you decide to stay, you’ll fall in love with the city and likely find yourself planning a return visit to discover even more.

Have more specific questions? Feel free to reach out to me in the comments if you have any queries about Athens that aren’t covered in this post! I’m always happy to help fellow travelers explore and enjoy this wonderful city ❤️

16 Responses

  1. Hi dear
    I want to know about an area that is called Khaydari or haydari near Athens.do you know about it.
    I will be glad to hear from you

    1. It’s not an area you want to stay if you want to explore Athens. Especially if it’s your first time in the city. It’s far away from the center and most Athen’s attractions. You better follow my neighborhood recommendations on the guide above.

  2. Hello, i moved to Greece few days ago, cause of work. Im still at an hotel in piraeus. Where would you recommend to rent a flat in Athens? I want to be more in the city, cause piraeus seems very off. Im 21 yo.
    I will be glad to hear from you!

    1. Although this guide is for visitors of Athens and not for people who want to actually live in for longer periods, I would suggest looking for appartments in Pagkrati, Kyspeli, Koukaki, Petralona, Ilisia areas to enjoy living in the center of Athens as a local would do. Depending on the neighborhood you choose, you’ll find rents in the 500-1000 € range. Welcome to Greece and I wish you good luck 🙂

  3. Hi Pantelis,
    I want to leave for Athens in summer for a week with children, what area would you recommend? A good hotel with affordable price 🙂 thank you!

    1. Although the hotel is located in Neos Kosmos, it’s a great option with awesome acropolis views. If you don’t mind walking for 10-20 minutes to get to the center of Athens and the main attractions, it’s a yes from me.

  4. Hello,

    We going to visit Athen with my girlfriend in may. We booked, an accommodation for four days in Exarcheia district, near to Statue of Athena in the big Park. After we booked we read it’s not the best neighborhood. Is it safe? Or should we change the booking? It’s going to be our first visit in Athens, and I don’t want to ruin our trip, if we afraid to go home.. Thank you for your help!

    1. Hey 🙂

      It’s not the best neighborhood indeed BUT if you can afford to use taxis for your night outs you’re gonna be fine It’s about 5-7 euros per ride if you stay in the center. On the other hand, if you have free cancellation on your booking, I would def go for it. You can still find a place in Exarcheia and feel safe though. From Kolonaki area up to Benaki Str is totally safe and vibrant.

  5. Hello, I’d like to visit Athens with my family and stay 4 nights. Are Keramikos and Monastiraki safe neighborhoods at night? Are they near the center or have very good transportation, metro, bus?

    1. Hey Ruth, both areas are very vibrant and mostly safe. Avoid walking around Metaxourgio and Omonia at night, and you’ll be fine. They are not the perfect areas for a family, but you won’t have any problems if you use common sense.

  6. Hi,
    We are thinking of travelling to Athens in October. We prefer to be half-way between the beach and the city centre. Where would you recommend In staying. Ideally the safest areas to stay and also how much are taxis.

    1. Hey Zoe, you should consider Koukaki if you want to stay in the center of Athens. It’s in the southern part of the center and it’s only 15 minutes away from Palaio Faliro and the nearest beaches (by taxi). The taxi will cost around 10-15 euros.

  7. Hi Pantelis can you pls recommend another hotel in Athens. I was hoping to book at Attalos in Psiri but they are full. I will be travelling alone with my daughter so I need somewhere safe, preferably in Plaka. Can you recommend some options pls.

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