In this post, we’ll explore the best areas to stay in Athens, focusing on its historic center and extending to the Athens Riviera. I live in central Athens and although I love my city dearly, I understand how challenging and chaotic it can be to choose the right area, especially if you’re visiting for the first time.
If you’re a first-time visitor to Athens or have just a day or two to explore the city, staying in one of the central neighborhoods is ideal. These areas offer easy walking access to the Acropolis, Plaka (the Old Town), top museums, and great dining options. However, since availability and prices can be challenging during the high season, I’ve also included some slightly more off-the-center areas for you to consider.
Here’s your guide to the best areas to stay in Athens, Greece, including the pros and cons of each neighborhood and the top nearby attractions. I’ve also covered the Athens Riviera and the best places to stay along the coast.
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The Best Areas to Stay in Athens Greece
I’ve created this handy, though not 100% accurate, map to highlight the best areas to stay in Athens. I believe it will help you find the perfect spot to base yourself during your visit and gives you a sense of where each area is located in relation to the Acropolis.
So, let’s jump right into the top neighborhoods to stay in Athens!
Syntagma
This is as centrally in Athens as it can get! Syntagma Square is the heart of modern Athens, known for its political and commercial significance. It is home to the Hellenic Parliament and the Tomb of the Unknown Soldier with the iconic Evzones performing their ritual. It also borders with the National Gardens, so if you love your morning jogging, this is a great area for you.
Pros of staying in Syntagma:
- Accessibility: As a central transportation hub, Syntagma offers easy access to metro lines, buses, taxis and trams, making it one of the best areas to stay in Athens. It is also the most convenient area to stay if you leave for the Athens Airport the next day.
- Proximity to Shops: Upscale shopping areas in Ermou and Metropoleos Streets are nearby. Expensive jewelry and haute couture can be found in Voukourestiou, Stadiou, and Panepistimiou streets near Syntagma. Panepistimiou & Voukourestiou corner, in a lovely neoclassic building you will find the Attika, a one-stop-shop for designer brands in Athens.
- Proximity to Sites: National Gardens, Zappeion Park, Athens Trilogy, Kolonaki, and Plaka are within a short walking distance. Acropolis is 1.6 km or a 20-minute walk.
Cons of staying in Syntagma:
- Traffic: The area can be busy with traffic, particularly around the Parliament building.
- Lack of Quaint Charm: Syntagma is more commercial and less picturesque compared to Plaka, Monastiraki, Thisio, and Psiri.
- Higher Accommodation Costs: Due to its central location and popularity, accommodation in Syntagma can be more expensive compared to other parts of Athens, especially during peak tourist seasons.
Best Hotels in Syntagma
I’ve chosen these hotels because they offer the best combination of location, amenities, and traveler reviews. They’re all within walking distance of the city’s major sights and provide comfortable, stylish accommodations to make your stay in Athens unforgettable:
- 5-star (2 properties): Grande Bretagne Hotel & Electra Metropolis.
- 4-star (2 properties): Nikiou Suites Luxury Residence & The Athenians Art Apartments.
- 3-star (2 properties): Chic Centre Suites Athens & Syntagma Luxury Living One “LL1” Apartments.
Kolonaki (Posh Area to Stay in Athens)
Kolonaki is an upscale neighborhood known for its chic boutiques, fine dining, and fashionable residents. It’s situated on the slopes of densely forested Lycabettus Hill, offering a more refined and quieter environment.
Pros of staying in Kolonaki:
- Elegant Setting: Kolonaki is renowned for its elegance, with stylish cafes, art galleries, and luxury shops.
- Tranquil: It’s a quieter area compared to other central neighborhoods, making it suitable for those seeking a more peaceful stay.
- Cultural Venues: Kolonaki houses some of the most important museums in Greece: The Benaki Museum, the Museum of Cycladic Art, the Byzantine and Christian Museum, the Kotsanas Museum of Ancient Greek Technology, the Gennadius Library, and the War Museum are not only some of the most important museums in Athens but also attractions as buildings, each with its own history.
- Proximity to Landmarks: You can take the cable car to the top of Lycabettus Hill (or drive or walk to the top). Lycabettus is another great place to hike or jog and a lovely spot for a sunset.
Cons of staying in Kolonaki:
- Higher Costs: Accommodation and dining in Kolonaki can be more expensive due to its upscale nature.
- Less Central: While still central, it’s a bit farther from major ancient sites compared to Plaka or Monastiraki. There is no metro in Kolonaki right now. The Acropolis is 2.7 km away.
- Lack of Quaint Charm: Kolonaki is a modern and upscale residential area but it does have some exquisite buildings such as the Mavromatis apartment (1933), corner of Ploutarchou and Ypsilantou streets, featuring Art Deco details.
- Free Parking can be challenging in Kolonaki, which might be an issue if you have a car and need convenient access. You will need to leave it at a paid garage nearby.
Finest Hotels in Kolonaki
The best hotels in Kolonaki with breathtaking views of Athens and the Acropolis from its rooftop pools are:
5-star: St. George Lycabettus Lifestyle Hotel
4-star (3 properties):
3-star (2 properties): Bugan-Villa & Athena B&B.
Plaka
Plaka is the oldest part of Athens built on the slope of the Acropolis Hill and probably in the top three best areas to stay in Athens. It is also very centrally located with most of the archaeological sites spread around its area.
Plaka has beautiful neoclassic houses with tiled roofs and bougainvillea flowers but also lively bars, cafés, and buzzing restaurants full of people almost year round. Despite the crowds, Greeks and tourists alike flock to the area constantly! Staying here means you’ll be at the center of absolutely everything.
Pros of staying in Plaka:
- Super close to all major sites including the Acropolis and the Parthenon, the Temple of Olympian Zeus, the Hadrian’s Gate, the Roman Agora, Syntagma, and Monastiraki. You can easily explore these sites on foot.
- The neighborhood is lively with numerous tavernas, cafés, and shops, offering a quintessential Athenian experience. There’s always something happening, especially in the evening.
- Cultural Experience: Plaka is home to several museums, galleries, and cultural sites, providing a rich cultural experience within walking distance.
- Pedestrian-Friendly: Much of Plaka is pedestrian-only, making it a pleasant place to stroll without worrying about traffic.
- Stroll stunning Anafiotika: a tiny area inside Plaka that looks like a Cycladic island!
- You can get there either by using the Monastiraki, or Acropolis metro stations. Super central area!
Cons of staying in Plaka:
- Crowded and Touristy: Plaka is a popular tourist destination, so it can get very crowded, especially during peak travel seasons. Depending on where you are staying (close to bars or taverns), it can also be noisy in the evenings and late at night.
- Higher Prices: Due to its popularity with tourists, prices for dining, shopping, and accommodations in Plaka can be higher compared to other parts of Athens (Thisio, Gkazi, Petralona, or Koukaki).
- Narrow Streets: The narrow, winding and at times slippery streets with stairs many of them can be challenging if you have mobility issues.
Top-Rated Hotels in Plaka
The best hotels in Plaka are the following, based on their exceptional service, prime location, and unique charm:
4-stars (3 properties):
- Step One | Luxury Suites right in the heart of Acropolis
- Farmaki Residence, Plaka
- Autonomous house in the heart of Plaka.
Mid-range (2 properties): Cozy tiny apartment in the heart of Plaka & Karma Athens.
Budget (2 properties): Dioskouros Hostel & Nefeli Hotel.
Makrigianni
Makrigianni (or Makrygianni) is a neighborhood in Athens located directly beneath the southern slope of the Acropolis Hill, where you’ll find the Acropolis Museum. As you can imagine, this prime location makes it one of the best areas to stay in Athens.
The natural border between Makrigianni and Plaka is the scenic pedestrian of Dionysiou Areopagitou Street. A walk through the area will surely catch your eye with its imposing neoclassical buildings and interwar apartment buildings, which are architectural masterpieces.
Pros of staying in Makrigianni:
- Proximity to Major Attractions: Makrigianni is located right next to the Acropolis and the Acropolis Museum, making it incredibly convenient for exploring some of Athens’ most iconic landmarks. The Temple of Olympian Zeus, the National Gardens, and the Panathenaic Stadium are within short walking distance. The Acropolis metro is 100 meters from the entrance to the Acropolis.
- Quieter Atmosphere: Compared to more tourist-heavy areas like Plaka, Syntagma, and Monastriaki, Makrigianni offers a quieter, more relaxed environment, making it ideal if you prefer a peaceful retreat after a day of sightseeing.
- Good Dining Options: The area has a variety of traditional tavernas, cafés, and restaurants, some with stunning Acropolis views such as the Strofi Athenian Restaurant.
- Pedestrian-Friendly: Many parts of Makrygianni are pedestrianized, making it easy and pleasant to walk around and explore the neighborhood on foot. This is very convenient if you have mobility issues.
Cons of staying in Makrigianni:
- Tourist Shops: While the area is much quieter than Plaka, it still has a fair share of tourist shops selling souvenirs, which can detract from the neighborhood’s otherwise authentic feel.
- Limited Nightlife: Makrygianni is quieter and more residential, so it may not offer the vibrant nightlife found in other parts of Athens like Psiri or Gkazi. However, Plaka or Koukaki are minutes away.
- Higher Accommodation Costs: Due to its prime location near major attractions, accommodation in Makrygianni can be more expensive compared to other neighborhoods in Athens.
Outstanding Hotels in Makrigianni
These are my favorite hotels in Makrigianni because they offer amazing hospitality but are also in the quieter areas so that you can enjoy a restful stay:
5-star (2 properties): Divani Palace Acropolis & Coco-mat Athens BC.
4-star (2 properties): Acropolis Ancient World & Kinglin Luxury Living.
3-star (2 properties): Acropolis Select & Athens Studios.
Monastiraki
Monastiraki is a bustling, historic area known for its vibrant flea market on Ifaistou Street, retail shops for shoes, clothes and souvenirs, and its lively atmosphere. It offers a blend of the old and the new, with ancient ruins alongside modern establishments.
Acropolis is 1 km away and you can get there either by walking through Plaka or taking the metro (1 stop).
Pros of staying in Monastiraki:
- Colorful Shopping: The Monastiraki Flea Market is famous for its variety of goods, from antiques to clothes, and is a treasure trove for shoppers.
- Central Location: It’s located close to major attractions like the Acropolis, Ancient Agora, and the Roman Agora.
- Public Transportation: The area has excellent public transportation links, including a metro station that connects you directly to the airport and the port of Piraeus, making it convenient for day trips and exploring other parts of Athens.
- Lively Atmosphere: The area is known for its vibrant street life and numerous dining options and roof-garden bars.
Cons:
- Crowded and Noisy: Due to its popularity, it can be very crowded and noisy, especially during peak tourist seasons. The hustle and bustle might be overwhelming for those seeking a quieter stay.
- Tourist-Oriented: While the area has a lot of charm, it’s also highly touristy. Many of the shops and restaurants cater primarily to tourists, which can make the experience feel less authentic.
- Nightlife Noise: Monastiraki’s vibrant nightlife is great for those who enjoy it, but it can be a downside if you’re sensitive to noise or prefer an early night. Some accommodations may experience street noise well into the night.
- Petty theft: In more crowded areas of the market, there have been incidents of petty theft.
Where to Stay in Monastiraki
5-star: The Dolli at Acropolis
4-star (4 properties):
3-star (2 properties): Beautiful City Suites & Monastiraki Place.
Psiri Athens
Psiri (or Psyrri) is one of the oldest areas in central Athens, a bohemian district, known for its artistic vibe, diminutive meze restaurants and trendy bars and cafes. Acropolis is 1.2 km away and you can get there either by walking through Plaka or taking the metro (1 stop).
Pros of staying in Psiri:
- Vibrant Nightlife: Psiri offers some of the best nightlife in Athens, with a variety of bars, clubs, and live music venues.
- Creative Atmosphere: The area is known for its creative energy, with street art and independent boutiques.
- Local Feel: Psiri provides a more local and less touristy experience compared to Plaka or Monastiraki. It is very close to Monastiraki metro station.
Cons of staying in Psiri:
- Noisy Nights: The lively nightlife can result in noise, which might be an issue for those seeking a quiet stay.
- Less Historic: While interesting, Psiri lacks the historical landmarks found in other central neighborhoods.
Top Hotels to Stay in Psiri
You’ll find plenty of excellent hotels, guesthouses, and even hostels in Psiri. The hotels are usually small since many are restored mansions or old factories and workshops that have been converted. Many of them offer rooftop spaces with fantastic views of the city and the Acropolis.
4-star(3-properties):
Mid-range: Central Apartments in Psiri
Budget: City Circus Athens.
Thisio
Thisio is a small, limited neighborhood in Athens, located northwest of the Acropolis and borders Monastiraki and the Ancient Agora of Athens. The area has been designated as a traditional settlement and offers stunning views of the Acropolis.
Thisio has its own Metro Station and attracts a lot of younger people. Acropolis is 1 km away and you can get there either by walking the Apostolou Pavlou pedestrian street or taking the metro (2 stops, 1 change in Monastiraki).
Pros of Staying in Thissio:
- Close to Major Attractions: Thissio is within walking distance of key historical sites like the Acropolis, the Ancient Agora, the Nymph Hill with Pnyka, and Kerameikos.
- Scenic and Relaxed Atmosphere: The area is known for its beautiful views of the Acropolis, especially from its cafés and restaurants along the pedestrian street. It’s a great spot to relax and enjoy the scenery.
- This is a great area for families, as it has many open spaces and is largely pedestrianized.
Cons of Staying in Thissio:
- Limited Nightlife: While Thisio has a few bars and restaurants, it’s not as lively at night compared to areas like Psiri, Plaka, or Gazi. If you’re looking for a vibrant nightlife scene, you might find it a bit quiet.
Great Accommodations in Thisio
These are my top picks for hotels in Thissio, where you can enjoy incredible views of the Acropolis and be right near all the main attractions in Athens.
4-star: AIONION RESIDENCES by K&K.
Mid-range (2 properties):
- Hercules Residence (Great for families)
- Aether Apartment by LobbySquare
Budget: The Stone Manor Noho boutique Thissio.
Gkazi (Kerameikos)
Gkazi (or Gazi) borders with Iera Odos (that leads to Eleusis) and the Kerameikos archaeological site, west of Thisio area. Its most prominent landmark is the old gas production factory which has been turned into an exhibition, cultural center, and concert area under the name of Technopolis.
Until about 25 years ago, the area was quite run-down and ghettoized, but it has since been transformed into a model of residential upgrade. Gazi’s transformation was boosted by the addition of the metro line, which now has a station on the main square near the Technopolis entrance. Around the square and in the surrounding alleys, you’ll find cozy taverns, restaurants, and cafés.
The Acropolis is 2.1 km away and you can get there either by walking toward Kerameikos and Thisio or taking the metro (3 stops, 1 change in Syntagma).
Pros of Staying in Gkazi
- Vibrant Nightlife: Gazi is known for its lively nightlife, especially during the weekends with a variety of bars, clubs, and music venues that attract locals and tourists alike. It’s a great spot if you enjoy staying out late and experiencing the city’s entertainment scene.
- Good Public Transport: Gazi has a metro station on the main square, making it easy to get around Athens and visit other parts of the city.
- Diverse Dining Options: The neighborhood offers a wide range of dining options, from traditional Greek taverns to modern restaurants, as well as gay-friendly bars and cafés.
Cons of Staying in Gkazi
- Noisy and Crowded: Due to its popularity, especially at the weekends, Gkazi can be noisy and crowded, which might be overwhelming if you prefer a quieter environment. If you stay near Konstantinoupoleos Avenue, you will be listening to the suburban trains running until late.
- Limited Historical Sights: Besides Technopolis and Kerameikos, the only other significant cultural center is the Benaki Museum on Pireos Street.
- Urban Grit: Despite its gentrification, parts of Gazi still retain a gritty, industrial feel, with some areas featuring older, less maintained buildings and empty lots.
Where to Stay in Gkazi
The vast majority of properties in Gkazi are renovated apartments or loft-style accommodations in converted factories or warehouses. These often feature open-plan layouts and a trendy, urban vibe. The most exceptional example of this type is the stunning 5-star Not Hotel, a truly unique historical experience. Other beautiful properties are:
4-star (3 properties):
3-star: Technopolis Luxury Apartments
Pertralona
Petralona borders Thissio and Gazi, and the train line divides it into Kato (Lower) Petralona and Ano (Upper) Petralona, which extends around Philopappou Hill.
Ano Petralona, with its neoclassical houses, is the more picturesque area. It is also famous in Athens for its good quality Greek food with authentic recipes, frequented almost exclusively by Greeks (Troon Street).
The lower part of Petralona really shows how Athens has changed since the post-war era. Here you will also find the Petralona Metro station. Acropolis is 1.8 km away (via Dorieon Street) and you can get there either by walking or taking the Petralona metro (3 stops, 1 change).
Pros of Staying in Petralona:
- Authentic Local Experience: Petralona offers a genuine Athenian neighborhood vibe, away from the main tourist hubs. It’s a great place to experience local life, with traditional tavernas, cafés, and markets.
- Budget-Friendly: Accommodation and dining options in Petralona are generally more affordable – and more real Greek food – than in more tourist-heavy areas like Plaka or Monastiraki.
Cons of Staying in Petralona:
- Less Touristy Amenities: Petralona is more residential, so it lacks the abundance of tourist services, guided tours, and souvenir shops that you might find in central areas.
- Limited Nightlife: While there are local bars and restaurants, Petralona doesn’t have the same bustling nightlife as areas like Psiri or Gazi, so it might be quieter at night.
- Less Central: While still relatively close to major sites, Petralona is not as centrally located as Plaka or Syntagma, so you may need to rely more on public transport or walking to reach key attractions.
Where to Stay in Petralona
(Mid-range – 3 properties):
Budget: Home Sweet Home
Pagrati
Pagrati is an old, central neighborhood of Athens, bordering Kolonaki and Mets. The area is named after either Pagration Heracles or the god Pagratis. It’s a neighborhood that Athenians truly love, and it’s one you need to explore on foot to uncover all its hidden gems.
It hasn’t got a dedicated metro station but the Evaggelismos metro station can be close to some parts of Pagrati. The Acropolis is 2.8 km away from its center. However, If you are staying close to Kallimarmaro (Panathenaic Stadium) the distance is down to 1.8 km.
Its most prominent landmarks are the Panathenaic Stadium, the exceptional Goulandris Museum, the Plastira Park, the Michelin-awarded Spondi restaurant, and my favorite Proskopon & Varnava Squares.
Pros of Staying in Pagrati
- Local Atmosphere: It blends the charm of old urban Athens, with its neoclassical buildings and gardens, alongside rows of modern apartment blocks.
- Vibrant Dining Scene: The neighborhood is known for its excellent dining options, from traditional tavernas to modern restaurants and trendy cafés, offering a wide range of Greek and international cuisine.
- You can jog in Ardittos Hill.
Cons of Staying in Pagrati
- No Parking: It is close to impossible to find free parking unless you are traveling in mid-August.
- Noise: Certain areas such as Plastira or Varnava Squares, are very noisy.
- No Metro Station: Pagrati does not have its own metro station, so you’ll need to walk or take the trolley to reach the nearest metro stop or major sites, which might be inconvenient for some travelers.
Where to Stay in Pagrati
4-star (2 properties): Modern & Central Apt in Athens & Athens BlueBuilding.
3-star (2 properties): Omnia Pagrati Apartments & Olympus Residence.
Budget: Zappion Hotel.
Mets
Mets is a tiny, old-charm-looking area squeezed between Pagrati and Neos Kosmos set on Logginos Hill across from Acropolis Hill. It has some really lovely streets/alleys, and well-built old houses, all no higher than a three-story building due to regulations. Its main road, Markou Mousourou Street is the epitome of an Athenian high street—here’s the greengrocer, a little further the bakery, and just down the road, the hair salon.
This is a really peaceful area of Athens, favored by artists, with just a single cafe (Odeon) on Mousourou Street but with more options toward the side of the imposing First Cemetry of Athens.
Pros of Staying in Mets
- Charming and Quiet: Mets is a peaceful neighborhood with a charming, local vibe. It’s less crowded than more touristy areas, offering a tranquil environment perfect for relaxing.
- Proximity to Attractions: Mets is close to major Athens attractions like the Panathenaic Stadium, the National Garden, and the Acropolis. You can easily explore these sites on foot.
- Green Spaces: The neighborhood has several parks and green spaces, providing a pleasant contrast to the more urban parts of Athens.
Cons of Staying in Mets:
- Limited Nightlife: If you enjoy vibrant nightlife, this might not be the best fit.
- Hilly Terrain: The area is quite hilly, which might be challenging for some visitors, especially those with mobility issues.
- Fewer Tourist Amenities: Mets has no tourist-oriented shops and services, meaning you might need to venture out to other areas for certain conveniences or guided tours.
- Limited Public Transport: While Mets is close to many attractions, it has fewer direct public transport options, requiring a bit more walking to reach metro stations or bus stops. Or you can take a taxi.
Where to Stay in Mets
These are some amazing properties in Mets with Acropolis views, charming coupled with modern facilities and decorations:
4-star: LUX&EASY Acropolis Suites
3-star: Vagabond Guesthouse
Koukaki
Koukaki is a trendy, vibrant neighborhood in Athens, nestled at the foot of the Acropolis. Known for its charming streets, lively café culture, and artistic vibe, it offers a perfect blend of local life and easy access to major historical sites, making it a favorite among both locals and visitors.
I have a dedicated post on Luxury, Mid-range, and Budget Koukaki Hotels here.
Athens Riviera
The Athens Riviera is a stunning stretch of coastline where you can escape the hustle and bustle and enjoy beautiful beaches, chic seaside towns, and laid-back vibes. The most popular areas to stay are Paleo Faliro which is close to Athens center, Glyfada, Vouliagmeni, and Cape Sounion.
Top Guided Tours for Athens
If you’re looking to make the most of your time in Athens, taking a guided tour is the way to go. Whether it’s exploring the iconic Acropolis, diving into a full-day adventure around the city, catching the stunning sunset at Cape Sounion, or cruising along the Athens Riviera, these tours will show you the best of what Athens has to offer!
- Athens Full Day Private Tour
- Acropolis and Museum Guided Tour with Ticket
- Best of Athens Half-Day Private Tour
- Cape Sounio, Temple of Poseidon, Athenian Riviera Private Tour from Athens
- Athens Riviera Sunset Cruise with snacks and drinks included
Conclusion
No matter what kind of experience you’re looking for, Athens has a neighborhood that suits your style. From the bustling streets of Monastiraki to the charming vibes of Mets, each area offers something unique. Choose the one that feels right for you and get ready to enjoy all the magic Athens has to offer!
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