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.
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.
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.
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 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.
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.
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.
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.
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.
1. Plaka, best area to stay in Athens as a tourist
Plaka is one of Athens’ most beautiful and historic neighborhoods, sitting just beneath the Acropolis. It offers a traditional, village-like feel with neoclassical buildings, narrow streets, and plenty of cafes and tavernas.
✅ Staying here means you’ll be surrounded by history and within walking distance of major attractions. The Acropolis is just 5-10 minutes away, and both Syntagma and Acropolis metro stations are nearby. Anafiotika, the upper part of Plaka, is especially peaceful, offering quiet spots and picturesque whitewashed houses. There are plenty of accommodation options, from boutique hotels to budget-friendly stays.
❌ The downside is that Plaka is one of the most touristy areas in Athens, which means it gets very crowded, especially in the summer. Hotels fill up fast, so booking early is essential. While charming, it lacks the nightlife options of Monastiraki or Psiri.
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.
2. Syntagma Square, best area to stay in Athens for first-timers
Syntagma is the heart of the city and an ideal place to stay, especially for first-time visitors or those in Athens for just a night or two.
✅ Staying here means you’ll have excellent transport links, including the metro and the budget-friendly X95 bus to the airport. You’re just a short walk from Plaka, Monastiraki, and Psiri, where you’ll find charming streets, great restaurants, and lively nightlife. The upscale neighborhood of Kolonaki is also nearby, offering elegant cafes and boutique shopping. Syntagma is surrounded by a variety of hotels, from budget-friendly options to luxury stays, making it a convenient choice for short visits.
❌ The downside is that it’s a busy area, so it can be noisy, especially during peak hours. Accommodations can be more expensive due to its prime location. If you prefer a quieter stay, you might want to consider a nearby neighborhood.
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.
3. Kolonaki, best area in Athens for a luxurious stay
Kolonaki is Athens’ most elegant and aristocratic neighborhood, located between the National Garden and Lycabettus Hill. It’s known for its luxury shopping, fine dining, and vibrant cultural scene.
✅ Staying here means easy access to high-end boutiques, sophisticated bars, and top-tier restaurants. The area is home to prestigious museums like the Museum of Cycladic Art and the Byzantine Museum. You can also take the funicular or hike up Lycabettus Hill for stunning city views. Its proximity to Syntagma Square makes it a convenient yet stylish choice.
❌ The downside is that Kolonaki is one of the pricier areas in Athens, with luxury hotels and upscale apartments dominating the accommodation scene. While some rentals offer more affordable options, early booking is essential. The nightlife is more refined compared to the lively bars of Monastiraki or Psiri.
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 is one of the most vibrant areas in Athens, known for its bustling flea markets, diverse shops, and open-air dining. It’s a great choice for travelers who want to be in the heart of the city’s action.
✅ Staying here means you’ll be within walking distance of major attractions like the Acropolis and Syntagma Square. It’s also next to Psiri and Gazi, two of Athens’ best nightlife spots. The area is filled with restaurants, cafes, and markets, making it perfect for exploring the city’s street life.
❌ The downside is that Monastiraki can be noisy and crowded, especially during peak tourist season. Some streets can feel chaotic, and not all accommodations offer quiet environments, so checking hotel reviews is essential before booking.
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
Psiri is known for its energetic nightlife, diverse dining scene, and local character. It may not have the elegance of Kolonaki or the classic beauty of Plaka, but it offers a raw, artistic charm.
✅ Staying here means you’ll be surrounded by traditional tavernas, trendy bars, and hidden local gems. It’s within walking distance of Monastiraki, the Acropolis, and other major attractions. At night, Psiri transforms into one of Athens’ best spots for nightlife, with beautifully decorated bars and live music venues.
❌ The downside is that Psiri’s graffiti-covered streets can feel rough around the edges, and some areas may appear worn. It can also be noisy, especially at night, so choosing accommodation wisely is important.
Best Hotels in Psiri
- (€€) Ivis 4 Boutique Hotel
- (€) Athens Center Square Hotel
- (€) Attalos Hotel
6. Koukaki, best area to stay in Athens near Acropolis
Koukaki is a charming and laid-back neighborhood that offers an authentic Athenian experience. Nestled between Filopappou Hill and Syngrou Avenue, it combines residential tranquility with a lively urban vibe.
✅ Staying here means enjoying pedestrian-friendly streets like Drakou and Olympiou, lined with cafes, bakeries, and wine bars. The area is home to the EMST (Museum of Contemporary Art) and offers great dining options, from traditional tavernas to modern spots. Koukaki has a good mix of rental apartments and hotels, catering to different budgets.
❌ The downside is that Koukaki is quieter than areas like Monastiraki or Psiri, so it’s not ideal for those looking for a buzzing nightlife scene. While well-located, it requires a bit more walking or metro use to reach some of Athens’ main attractions.
Best Hotels in Koukaki
- (€€€) Coco-mat Athens BC
- (€€) Heritage Hill Hotel
- (€) Acropolis View Hotel
7. Exarcheia, best area in Athens to live like a local
Exarcheia is Athens’ alternative and artsy district, known for its strong cultural identity and vibrant local scene.
✅ Staying here means being surrounded by indie cafes, bookstores, art galleries, and live music venues. It’s a great place for those who enjoy a creative, hipster & less touristy atmosphere. The Saturday market on Kallidromiou Street is a must-visit for fresh produce and a taste of local life. Accommodations are generally more affordable, with a mix of rental apartments and mid-range hotels.
❌ The downside is that Exarcheia has a raw, rebellious edge that may not appeal to everyone. While it’s safe for visitors, some streets can feel rough, especially at night. It’s also a bit farther from major tourist attractions compared to areas like Syntagma or Plaka.
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
Metaxourgeio is a budget-friendly neighborhood offering affordable accommodation while still being relatively close to the city center. It’s a practical option for travelers looking to save money without staying too far from major attractions.
✅ Staying here means access to well-priced hotels, including 4-star options that cost less than 3-star stays in more popular areas like Plaka. The metro station provides easy transportation to key sites, making it a convenient base for exploring Athens.
❌ The downside is that the area has a gritty feel and is not ideal for families or solo travelers. Walking alone at night is not recommended, so using taxis for evening outings is a safer choice. While improving, it lacks the lively atmosphere and charm of other central neighborhoods.
Best Hotels in Metaxourgeio
- (€€€) Wyndham Grand Athens
- (€€) The Stanley
- (€) Hotel Katerina
FAQ
Where to stay in Athens for family?
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.
Where NOT to stay in Athens
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.
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
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
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.
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!
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 🙂
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!
Stay Chic Athens in Koukaki and Attalos Hotel in Psirri are both good AND affordable options.
How is the Royal Olmpic Hotel for mature first time visitors to Athens? Thank you.
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.
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!
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.
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?
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.
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.
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.
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.
For Attalos Hotel you should book as early as possible because it fills up quickly. Have you checked Adam’s Hotel in Plaka? It’s an ideal and budget friendly base for exploring Athens. Pick a room with acropolis view if your budget is enough.