Despite its size, Greece's capital is a low-rise city, so unobstructed views from the best hotels with rooftop bars in Athens stretch all the way to the mountains and the sea. Saluting the sunset over the Acropolis or Mt Lycabettus from a rooftop bar, then watching as the lights come on all over the city is one of the great experiences of an Athenian holiday. Rooftop watering-holes come in all shapes and sizes, from boho-trendy enclaves where hipsters chat high above Monastiraki's busy souvlaki joints to perfect poolside havens.

12 of the Best Hotel Rooftop Bars in Athens

Best for pools

The best of both worlds? A super rooftop bar beside a super rooftop pool – the perfect place to recover from a hard day's sightseeing and shopping.

• M Bar, on the tenth floor of the luxuriously cosmopolitan Electra Metropolis and next to the highest pool on the tenth floor, has killer views to match its rather good cocktail list.
• Chill out high above up-and-coming Metaxourgeio at Views, the sleek roof-level bar at Novus City Hotel
• St George Lycabettus has a fabulous rooftop pool, with bar of course, also boasting epic city views.
• Divani Caravel's rooftop pool is open year round, accompanied by its pool bar; both enjoy views of Lycabettus Hill and are the perfect spot for sundowners.

Best for foodies

Sip a sundowner, dine al fresco with the lights of Athens twinkling below, then return to the bar for a nightcap. What could be more agreeable? You'll find bars twinned with fine-dining restaurants atop several hotels in the city centre.

• Book a table at the Tudor Lounge on the top floor of the grand King George Palace for imaginative pre-prandial cocktails, fine wines and a menu that's rated among the best in Greece.
• The Hotel Grande Bretagne boasts two bars – open-air, summer-only Bar 8 and the GB Rooftop Bar – to complement its GB Roof Garden Restaurant, acclaimed for its contemporary Mediterranean menu.
• The Herodion Hotel has the fantastic Point a restaurant and bar on its rooftop. Here you can enjoy a wide range of inventive cocktails, plus Mediterranean and Greek gourmet dishes.

Best for hipsters

Stylish Athenians mingle with hotel guests in the trendy rooftop bars of hip hotels in lively neighbourhoods like Monastiraki, that buzz with conversation day and night.

• Guess what? The cocktail bar at 360 Degrees has panoramic views stretching over Monastiraki and Plaka to the Acropolis. Stay in pop-art rooms to complete the experience.
• The rooftop bar at elegant A for Athens has become a favoured rendezvous for a stylish local crowd. It looks over the bustle of Monastiraki Square and across the old city to the Acropolis.
• For urban style and Acropolis views it's hard to beat the Roof Garden bar at The Zillers, one of our favourite boutique hideyholes. There's an all-day snack menu and an inspired cocktail list.
• For cooler evenings, Air Lounge on the ninth floor of colourfully minimalist Hotel Fresh has an indoor lounge that opens onto its terrace.
• At the New Hotel, the Art Lounge on the 7th floor is where to come for both superb cocktails and food all accompanied by panoramic city views. Plus there's a choice of 2000 art books to borrow if you're looking for another way to while away the day.

Still not sure?

• Browse our full list of recommendations in Athens,
• Check our recommendations for the best Athens hotels with a view
• or contact a friendly guru for advice.

  • St George Lycabettus Athens (Kolonaki) 154 rooms from AU$235

    
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    City Style  -  In the city's most exclusive neighbourhood, with excellent views of the Acropolis from the sleek rooms and hip rooftop bar

    Luxury  -  The hotel sets itself apart by offering unique amenities including a cinema, art gallery and yoga sessions

    Museums  -  The Cycladic Museum, the Byzantine Museum and the National Gallery are all walking distance

    Views  -  Enjoy a drink with panoramic views from both the rooftop bar and Le Grand Balcon restaurant

    

    Recommended by  -  Frommers, Michelin Travel

    Classic luxury meets 21st-century style at this Athens Grand Dame. Dignified and charming, with great rooftop pool and contemporary rooms. Some rooms have views of the Acropolis. Not super central so good rates, and in upmarket, quiet residential area. See More

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  • Divani Caravel Hotel Athens (Pangrati) 471 rooms from AU$228

    
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    Local exploring  -  An ideal base for exploring with good transport links and easy access to the Kolonaki shopping district, museums and monuments

    Museums  -  Set close to the city’s major museums including the National Art Gallery, the Museum of Cycladic Art, and the War Museum

    Families  -  Well designed for families with babysitting services, kids' menus, and spacious family suites

    Designer Shopping  -  Close to Kolonaki, an upscale neighbourhood and one of the main shopping areas in Athens

    

    A luxury hotel perfectly located in central Athens. Functionality is the key word, with restaurant, shop, bar and lobby laid in an open plan style. Rooms range from simple bright and contemporary to more sumptuous suites. Expect top notch facilities including a rooftop pool, spa and superb cuisine! See More

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  • Novus City Hotel Athens (Vathi) 85 rooms from AU$253

    
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    Local exploring  -  Set in the heart of the artsy district of Athens, there is plenty to do locally such as the theatre, museums & historic sites

    Museums  -  Visit the nearby Paxinou-Minotis Museum, dedicated to the work of Greek film and stage actress Katina Paxinou

    Families  -  Family rooms are great for those travelling with children, and kids will love the hotel pool

    City Style  -  With a bright and modern finish, this four-star hotel is stylish and luxurious

    

    This modern, four-star hotel is situated in Karaiskaki Square, the cultural centre of Athens. Rooms are individually styled in a lively palette, with hand-selected design pieces; the best suites offer a private terrace. Relax by the hotel pool or at the sleek rooftop bar. A contemporary city stay. See More

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  • Electra Metropolis Athens (Syntagma) 216 rooms from AU$318

    
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    Families  -  Families will love this all-facilitating hotel - family suites, TVs, pool, spa and urban entertainment - something for everyone

    Local exploring  -  Get lost in the winding streets of this history-centric city. At the crossroads of modern urban culture and ancient history

    Romantic Break  -  Athens is a romantic city full of history, art, ruins, museums, bustling night-life and cafe-culture on every street corner

    Sights nearby  -  The absolute perfect location for visiting the world's most famous ancient ruins atop of the Acropolis

    

    A luxurious 5-star hotel offering elegant rooms and suites. Centrally located in downtown Athens, bustling urban entertainment is around every corner. The design is retro-chic and undeniably cool. A breathtaking rooftop with bar, pool and epic views of the Parthenon make this hotel a must-stay. See More

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  • King George, a Luxury Collection Hotel Athens (Syntagma) 102 rooms from AU$548

    
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    Sights nearby  -  A short walk to the Acropolis, containing the remains of several ancient buildings, the most famous being the Parthenon

    Honeymoons  -  Book the Penthouse Suite with private outdoor pool overlooking the famed Acropolis — you can't get more romantic!

    City Style  -  Oozing glamour and old world charm, with chandeliers and period furnishings creating a unique neo-classical look

    Hotel Entertainment  -  Sip cocktails on the seventh floor balcony over looking the spectacular Ancient Citadel, The Acropolis

    

    Recommended by  -  Frommers, Kiwi Collection, Michelin Travel

    A neoclassical grand dame hotel, in the historic Syntagma Square. Opulent interiors with hardwood floors, classical furnishings and stunning views of the Parthenon. Everything you would expect of five-star luxury — with some contemporary twists. A luxe city base. See More

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  • Hotel Grande Bretagne Athens (Syntagma) 320 rooms from AU$618

    
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    Historic  -  The grand building dates back to 1842 (it was once a favourite of Winston Churchill). It's packed with antiques and oil painting

    Close to nightlife  -  There are many bars in the surrounding area but why go further than the hotel's award-winning Alexander's Bar

    City Style  -  The height of glamour with its grand neoclassical style, this is a must stay for total indulgence

    Local exploring  -  Well located for easy access to the city's main attractions.

    

    Recommended by  -  Tablet

    A historic hotel in the heart of Athens. Find elegance in abundance throughout. Gorgeous rooms with high ceilings, large windows and filled with antiques. The marble-clad bathrooms are pretty special too. A fine-dining restaurant and glamorous bar for nights of indulgence. Highly recommended. See More

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  • Herodion Hotel Athens (Makriyanni) 90 rooms from AU$354

    
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    Local exploring  -  Sitting in prime position right under the Acropolis, this is an elegant spot from which to soak up this ancient city

    Museums  -  The Acropolis Museum is within a few minutes walk of the hotel and is a treasure trove of fascinating information

    Foodies  -  The restaurant is a popular spot with locals, admired both for its views and the excellent food served

    Hotel Entertainment  -  Grab a drink and settle in to one of the two rooftop hot tubs, overlooking the Acropolis

    

    An elegant boutique hotel, overlooking the Acropolis. The rooms offer stylish furnishings, parquet floors, original artworks and some boast balconies with remarkable views. The rooftop restaurant is a popular spot, as is the glasshouse bistro bar downstairs. A unique and refreshing stay. See More

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  • 360 Degrees Hotel Athens (Monastiraki) 20 rooms from AU$196

    
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    Local exploring  -  Located next to Hadrian's Library and Monastiraki Flea Market, this hotel is a great starting point for local exploring

    Romantic Break  -  Couples love the romantic roof terrace at night, with signature cocktails and stunning views over the historic city

    City Style  -  With unique design pieces and individually styled rooms, this hotel has reams of city style

    Local markets  -  Wander round Monastiraki Flea Market, a short walk from the hotel, and bag a bargain to take home

    

    Recommended by  -  Great Small Hotels

    This charming hotel is nestled in the heart of historic Athens. Individually styled rooms have unique, vintage design pieces and views of the city sights. Stay in the Junior Suite to enjoy a pretty outdoor patio. Drink at the rooftop bar for majestic views of the Acropolis. An intimate guesthouse. See More

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  • A for Athens Athens (Monastiraki) 35 rooms from AU$163

    
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    Romantic Break  -  A perfect romantic getaway — fantastic food, great cocktails and remarkable Acropolis views from the rooftop restaurant

    Close to nightlife  -  Monastiraki Square is just across the street and is a hotspot for bars, eateries, markets and lively street scenes

    Great walks  -  Centrally located in one of Athens most vibrant neighbourhoods, be sure to wander the streets and soak it all in

    Sights nearby  -  As you can probably tell from the views, you are only a 15 minute walk to the Acropolis

    

    Recommended by  -  Great Small Hotels

    An elegant and sought after hotel overlooking the Acropolis in central Athens. The rooms are simple and stylish with hardwood floors, artsy light fixtures and the odd marble sculpture; some offer balconies. The rooftop bar serves incredible cocktails and their Greek cuisine is excellent. Wonderful! See More

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  • The Zillers Athens (Monastiraki) 10 rooms from AU$422

    
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    Romantic Break  -  Couples love the romantic roof garden bar and café, with great views over the historic city

    City Style  -  Situated in a lovingly restored heritage building, this hotel has plenty of city style

    Families  -  The spacious family suites are perfect for those travelling with children

    Sights nearby  -  Visit the Acropolis, the ruins of an iconic 5th-century B.C. temple complex a stone's throw from the hotel

    

    This boutique hotel is set within the picturesque neighbourhood of Plaka. Located in a heritage building, the hotel underwent a full renovation and now offers modern rooms and suites with design pieces that nod to local style. Unwind with a drink at the urban roof garden; a stylish city getaway. See More

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  • New Hotel Athens (Syntagma) 79 rooms from AU$295

    
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    Contemporary  -  A Modernist Fifties building which has been fully refurbed with exciting contemporary design

    Romantic Break  -  With specialised couples' treatments in the spa and fine dining — this is a romantic base

    Views  -  For seriously impressive 180-degree views of the Parthenon, book the Penthouse Suite

    Foodies  -  New Taste serves seasonal food in a sleek setting and is worthy of booking for alone

    

    Recommended by  -  Mr & Mrs Smith, Tablet

    A cutting-edge designer-chic hotel. Bedrooms and suites full of natural light have all the mod cons, private balconies, and quirky modern furnishings. There's a fabulous modern restaurant and a spa complete with a hammam. A luxury choice for the design conscious. See More

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  • Fresh Hotel Athens (Omonia) 136 rooms from AU$191

    
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    Romantic Break  -  A hip spot for young couples — Tassos Zepos design interiors and achingly cool rooftop bar with pool and views of the Acropolis

    Total relaxation  -  For those looking to unwind, book the suites featuring Zen Gardens and make the most of the Hammam, spa and steam rooms!

    Hotel Entertainment  -  The new ArtWall/Project Space hosts a new visual and/or performance art show every month

    Sights nearby  -  Acropolis and Syntagma Square are very easily accessibly by foot

    

    Recommended by  -  Mr & Mrs Smith, I Escape, Tablet, Frommers, Kiwi Collection

    Luxury meets minimal to make a statement at this colourful boutique hotel in the centre of Athens. Spacious and stylish rooms come with all the mod-cons. Admire the sunset from the rooftop pool and open-air bar. Top notch breakfast buffet at Magenta Restaurant. Great for romantics and explorers. See More

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Written by Robin Gauldie

posted Wednesday, 13th November 2024