Would you like to experience luxurious living in Athens? Right in the heart of the city on Syntagma Square, the Hotel Grande Bretagne has a prime spot opposite the Hellenic Parliament. This historic gem, dating back to 1874, is all about luxury and grandeur. It’s super close to must-see spots like the Acropolis Hill and the Temple of Olympian Zeus, making it perfect for both fun trips and business stays.
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Quick facts for Grande Bretagne Hotel
- Grande Bretagne Hotel was founded in 1866 in a nearby location. In 1874 the hotel business was relocated to the Antonis Dimitriou mansion (built in 1842) and continues to house it to this day.
- In 1888 it was one of the first establishments that used electricity.
- In 1927 the hotel expanded with a new facade on Voukourestiou Street, and the rooms were upgraded to include telephones and private bathrooms.
- When the Italian invasion of Greece began on October 28, 1940, the Hotel Grande Bretagne was taken over by the General Staff of the Army.
- It is a family-friendly business (pets are not allowed).
- It has 384 rooms (including 79 suites), among which there are 2 Royal Suites, each covering an area of 550 square meters.
- It is 1 km from the Acropolis Hill.
Architectural Elegance
The Grande Bretagne hotel’s architecture is a blend of classic Victorian design and Greek neoclassical elements. The exterior of Hotel Grande Bretagne showcases grand arches and wrought-iron balconies, while the interior is pure opulence with its marble floors, high ceilings, and plush Victorian furnishings.
The lobby is particularly impressive, with glossy checkered floors, crown-molded ceilings, and several seating areas filled with luxurious Victorian chairs and couches.
Luxurious Accommodations in Hotel Grande Bretagne
Hotel Grande Bretagne offers a variety of luxurious rooms and suites, each designed to provide maximum comfort and elegance. The rooms feature high ceilings, antique furnishings, and modern amenities. Some suites offer private balconies with stunning views of the Acropolis and the city of Athens. The Royal Suite, in particular, is a highlight, providing a truly regal experience with its spacious layout and opulent decor.
Dining Options
The hotel offers several dining options, each providing a unique culinary experience:
- GB Roof Garden Restaurant & Bar: This rooftop restaurant offers breathtaking views of the Acropolis and serves a variety of Mediterranean and international dishes. It’s an ideal spot for breakfast, lunch, and dinner, providing a relaxed yet elegant dining experience.
- Winter Garden City Lounge: Located within the hotel, this lounge offers a serene environment for enjoying breakfast, lunch, dinner, and afternoon tea.
- Alexander’s Bar and Cigar Lounge: This bar is famous for its classic cocktails and fine spirits. The adjacent cigar lounge offers a selection of Cuban cigars and has both indoor and outdoor seating.
- GB Pool Bar & Grill: Located by the outdoor pool, this bar serves light snacks and drinks, perfect for a relaxing day by the pool.
Wellness and Leisure Facilities
The hotel boasts extensive wellness and leisure facilities, including:
- GB Spa: A luxurious spa offering a range of treatments, including beauty treatments, massages, and a hair salon. The spa also features saunas for relaxation.
- Fitness Studio: A 24-hour fitness center equipped with cardio and weight machines, perfect for maintaining your fitness routine while traveling.
- Swimming Pools: The hotel has both an indoor and an outdoor pool. The outdoor pool area is complemented by the GB Pool Bar & Grill, providing light snacks and drinks.
Business and Event Facilities
Hotel Grande Bretagne is well-equipped to host business meetings and events. The hotel features 15 meeting rooms, including grand ballrooms, covering over 11,800 square feet. The business center is open 24/7 and provides all necessary facilities for business travelers. Free Wi-Fi is available in public areas, although it may be slow at times. The hotel collaborates with nearby parking garages to accommodate guests.
Unique Experiences and Highlights
- Historical Tours: Guests can explore the rich history of Athens with guided tours arranged by the hotel.
- Views of Athens: The rooftop restaurant and certain rooms offer stunning views of the Acropolis, making it a memorable experience for guests.
- Central Location: Being centrally located, guests can easily walk to many of Athens’ top attractions, including the Acropolis Hill, the Temple of Olympian Zeus, and the shopping district of Ermou Street.
Book Your Room (Booking & Expedia)
With stunning views, top-notch amenities, and delicious dining, it’s the perfect spot to unwind and explore the city’s best attractions. Ready for an unforgettable stay? Click here to book your room now!
Conclusion
Whether you’re in the city for business, leisure, or a bit of both, this hotel Grande Bretagne provides everything you need for a comfortable and lavish stay in Athens!
Wish you well and safe travels, Evgenia
Essential Travel Info for Greece
- ‘Hello’ and ‘Thank You’ in Greek: “Ya sou” and “Efharisto”
- Booking.com: I use Booking.com mostly for Europe.
- Expedia: I use Expedia for the rest of the world.
- All-Inclusive Resorts in Greece
- FerryScanner to book ferries to the Greek Islands
- Rent an Affordable Car in Greece
- Athens Metro Website (timetables and ticket info)
- Trains (Hellenic Train)
- Public Buses KTEL
- Get Your Guide: For all your day or multi-day tours and city guide needs, I use Get Your Guide
- Emergency Numbers Anywhere in Greece: AMBULANCE 166 – FIRE 199 – POLICE 100– EMERGENCY NUMBER 112
