Past and present blend together effortlessly here in Athens, where ruins from Greece’s long history stand next to modern wonders. Here, you can spend your days visiting historical sites such as the Parthenon and the Acropolis before you head off to shop for souvenirs at Monastiraki Square, feast on local cuisine at Plaka, or experience the vibrant nightlife at Koukaki.
But traveling isn’t just all about what places you visit; where you stay for the night to rest and recharge after a long day of exploration also plays a big part in planning your visit. And with so many choices on where to stay in Athens, it can be difficult to pick one for your upcoming trip.
To help you decide, we’ve come up with a list of our six favorite neighborhoods in the city. Whether you’re looking for luxurious stays, budget accommodations in the city center, or locations away from the busy streets, we’ve got you covered. Read on below.
1. Plaka
Admire the cobblestone streets and white houses of Plaka, surrounded by taverns, restaurants and other shops.
When travelers research locations for where to stay in Athens, Plaka is easily the first neighborhood that comes to mind. Athens’ oldest neighborhood, you’ll feel like you’re walking back in time as you walk along its beautiful cobblestone streets lined with white houses and bougainvillea bushes. Its central location also means that you’re within walking distance of key locations in Athens, such as the Acropolis, as well as shops, cafés, and restaurants.
Klook tip: Many hotels in the Plaka neighborhood have incredible views from the rooftop. We recommend booking a hotel in the area with rooftop access, such as the Plaka Hotel.
2. Kolonaki
Climb up Lycabettus Hill for a fantastic view of Kolonaki and the nearby neighborhoods.
Generally considered to be the upscale area of Athens, Kolonaki is the perfect destination if you want to treat yourself to luxurious hotels, fine dining, and designer boutiques. Here you can spend your days alternating sightseeing with window shopping and trying out one restaurant after another as you walk through the neighborhood’s alleyways. We also recommend experiencing the cafe culture in Kolonaki, with visits to chic cafes in Miloni and Kapsali.
Kolonaki is also famous for its proximity to Lycabbetus Hill, which you can climb for panoramic views of Athens that can stretch all the way out to the island of Aegina. We recommend taking the cable car ride to the top before walking down to experience different views of the city.
Klook tip: For summer trips to Athens, Kolonaki hotels with a rooftop pool like the George Lycabettus Lifestyle Hotel are recommended for scenic views while you relax.
3. Syntagma
Stop by Syntagma Square on Sunday at 11:00 am to catch the official changing of the guards
Wondering where to stay in Athens’ city center with direct access to the airport line? Then a hotel in Syntagma is our recommendation. Here you can transit to and from Athens International Airport in just 40 minutes by using the metro, no transfers necessary, perfect if you’re looking to rest in your hotel right after landing.
And while it may be further away from the Acropolis compared to Plaka or Kolonaki, it more than makes up for it with other attractions such as the Hellenic Parliament, the changing of the guards at Syntagma Square, and Ermou Shopping Street. There are also tons of fantastic restaurants here, offering both local delicacies and international fare if you’re missing the taste of home.
Klook tip: While the guards change hourly every day, there is a larger ceremonial parade on Sundays at 11:00 am. During this parade, the guards are dressed in full uniforms and are accompanied by the military band during the march. For the best view of the ceremony, it’s best to arrive at least an hour before the changing of the guards.
4. Monastiraki
Monastiraki is the place to be if you want to stay in an area with a little bit of everything Athens has to offer!
Considered to be the heart of Athens, Monastiraki is the place to be if you want to experience the city’s vibrant energy. Here you get to experience a little bit of everything: from the Acropolis and the Ancient Agora to buzzing flea markets, shops, and restaurants with great food, it’s the place to be for tourists who want to try everything the city has to offer!
This neighborhood is also connected directly to the airport and to Piraeus Port via the metro, so you can freely travel around as you wish. But expect to have to deal with larger crowds in the area compared to other neighborhoods.
5. Faliro
Get a fantastic view of the sunset by stopping by Flisvos Marina in the late afternoon.
If you’re looking for a neighborhood in Athens without the crowds, then consider Faliro for your upcoming trip. With various beaches in the area and the Flisvos Marina nearby, it’s an ideal location if you’re planning a more relaxed trip! Here you can walk or cycle along the seaside promenade, try out cafes and restaurants at the marina, or just enjoy the sun at Edem Beach.
And while Faliro is a bit further away from the city center compared to other recommended areas where to stay in Athens, it’s well-connected via the tram or metro, meaning you can access the Acropolis and other historical sites in Athens without much difficulty.
Klook tip: The sunset in this part of Athens is simply breathtaking. For the best views, stop by either Flisvos Marina or Edem Beach in the afternoon and watch as the setting sun paints the sky in shades of red, orange, and yellow.
6. Koukaki
Take a good look at the Philopappos Monument, a Roman-era mausoleum located on Philopappos Hill.
Located just beyond the city center, Koukaki is a highly recommended neighborhood if you’re in search of hotels and accommodations in Athens with a more “local” feel. During the daytime, you can explore its alleyways in search of authentic Athenian shops, cafes, and restaurants. At night, stop by Georgaki Olympiou Street or Koukaki Square to experience the city’s one-of-a-kind nightlife scene.
Other things to do in Koukaki include a trip to Philopappos Hill for views of the city and to visit the Philopappos Monument on top, as well as visiting the National Museum of Contemporary Art Athens (ΕΜΣΤ) nearby.
Now that you’ve got your accommodations in Athens taken care of, it’s time to start planning the rest of your trip. Make sure you’ve got all your essentials, like your Europe eSIM and your Athens City Pass for discounts on museums and public transportation. You can also check out our recommendations for budget-friendly activities in Athens if you need more ideas for things to do in the city. Enjoy your travels!
FAQs
1. Where is the best area to stay in Athens for first-time visitors?
Recommended areas in Athens include:
- Plaka: for a central location and scenic sightseeing along its cobblestone streets filled with neoclassical houses and bougainvillea flowers.
- Kolonaki: for an upscale stay with access to luxury shopping, fine dining, and panoramic views of Athens.
- Monastiraki: for easy access to Acropolis, the Ancient Agora, the Roman Forum and other historical sights in Athens.
- Syntagma: for shopping, dining, and watching the changing of the guard at the Greek Parliament Building.
- Koukaki: for a more local and authentic feel of Athens, with a sophisticated nightlife scene.
- Faliro: for a quiet neighborhood near the beach, ideal if you’re trying to avoid the crowds.
2. What makes the Plaka neighborhood a popular place to stay?
The Plaka neighborhood in Athens is famous for its central location, where you’ll be within walking distance of the main sites in Athens, especially the Acropolis. It’s also famous for its picturesque cobblestone streets, particularly its white-washed neoclassical houses with bougainvillea flowers hanging over the balconies. We also love its proximity to multiple shops, cafés, and restaurants, which makes it easy to grab a quick bite to refuel in the middle of the day or at night after a day full of exploration. Its accessibility and scenery make it one of the most popular suggestions for travelers researching ideas for where to stay in Athens.
However, note that this is also one of the more expensive areas to stay in Athens. If you’re in search of a budget-friendly hotel in Plaka, consider locations closer to neighboring areas such as Koukaki or Monastiraki.
3. Are hotels in Kolonaki a good choice for a more upscale stay?
Yes, hotels in Kolonaki are ideal if you’re looking to experience the luxurious side of Athens. Here you’ll get to choose from various five-star hotels offering fantastic rooftop views of the city. You’ll also get to experience fine dining, shop for designer brands, and try out the area’s chic cafe culture.
4. How do Kolonaki hotels compare to those in Plaka or Syntagma?
Hotels in Kolonaki, Athens, are generally more luxurious compared to those in Plaka and Syntagma. Most of the 5-star hotels in Athens are located here, with easy access to fine dining restaurants, designer boutiques, and more, so it’s the perfect choice if you want to treat yourself to an upscale stay during your trip. Hotels in this area are also generally quieter due to the smaller crowds, compared to hotels in Plaka or Syntagma.
5. Which Athens neighborhoods are safest and most convenient for sightseeing?
Athens’ neighborhoods like Plaka, Kolonaki, Monastiraki, and Syntagma are all convenient for sightseeing due to their central locations. They are all considered to be very safe generally as well, though it’s still recommended to remain cautious when you’re outside. Try to minimize using your phone while walking, and make sure your bag is always closed and attended to.
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