An artsy college town brimming with a vibrant music culture and warm Southern hospitality, Athens is a fantastic choice for a city break or as part of an extensive Georgia road trip. With everything from simple B&Bs to stylish city hotels, this is a fun and funky destination for couples, groups of friends or families — especially those dropping students off at the University of Georgia. Our pick of the best places to stay in Athens are clustered around the heart of the city, perfect for soaking up all the action.

Just under 1.5 hours by road from Atlanta, Athens has a laid-back, youthful vibe; in large part due to the thriving student population. Founded in 1781, the University of Georgia (UGA) is now famed for its talented football team — the Bulldogs — and its hip, friendly feel. Do catch a game at Sanford Stadium if you can!

The city’s attractions include the Georgia Museum of Art and the State Botanical Garden of Georgia. Both are well worth visiting, but Athens’ real charm lies in its burgeoning café, bar and foodie scene, with quirky little places lining the streets of the appealingly walkable downtown area. Hop from one bar to another, take in some live music or a theatrical performance and allow yourself to be swept up in the city’s fun-loving energy. Delve into Athens’ past with a guided walking tour through lanes dominated by imposing buildings, and chart the city’s history from tiny eighteenth-century settlement, through the Civil War to the buzzing city which is has become today.

There’s stacks to see and do in the Blue Ridge Mountains, too, with adventurous hiking, cycling and horse riding trails, as well as kayaking and fishing in spectacular North Georgia surroundings. The best places to stay in Athens fill up fast when there are big events at UGA, so book your trip well in advance to avoid missing out!

The Best Places to Stay in Athens

For Live Music

• Graduate Athens offers glamorous rooms and suites with a charming retro feel, just a short walk from the UGA campus. This is a vibrant pick for a sociable city break complete with live music at trendy venue The Foundry, great food, a refreshing plunge pool and heaps of Southern hospitality. Fun & funky.

For City Chic

• Hotel Indigo Athens is a sophisticated city hotel with slick, stylish rooms and suites, fabulous farm-to-table breakfasts and a swanky bistro-bar for hip evenings in. Well-placed for exploring Athens, the property is also a brilliant business and events venue. For well-heeled travellers.

FOR AN APARTMENT OR HOLIDAY COTTAGE

• If you'd prefer a self-catering option, we suggest that you visit our online partner Booking.com.

TRAVEL INFORMATION

• Fly to Atlanta International Airport, and take a 2-hour bus or drive the 1 hour and 20 minutes to Athens.
• Georgia is ideal for a road trip! Contact our online partner Rentalcars if you would like to hire a car.
• Travel during the summer months (June to August) for the warmest weather, but do be aware that this is peak season. Come in the spring (April - May) or autumn (September - October) for fewer crowds. Do note that hotels will be especially busy around the beginning of the UGA academic year and at graduation.

STILL NOT SURE?

• Browse our list of the best places to stay in Atlanta.
• Expand your search to include all the best places to stay in Georgia.
• Or contact one of our friendly Gurus for advice.