Image by Kookay from Pixabay
If you're planning to add a night or two sightseeing in Greece's must-see capital to an island-hopping journey or a road trip, let the Guru help you. Some of the best hotels for a stopover in Athens are in the city centre - perfect for a flying visit to the Parthenon and a night on the town.
8 of the Best Hotels for an Athens stopover
For sightseeing
If seeing the ancient sights is your priority, you'll find some of the best places for a stopover in Athens around Koukaki and Monastiraki – or, if luxury is your priority, around Syntagma.
- Self-catering suites at NLH Fix, a stone's throw from the Acropolis, let you choose your own mealtimes, so it's a perfect stopover base.
- At A for Athens you can soak up the buzz of Monastiraki from a hip rooftop bar, dive into the labyrinthine Flea Market and explore the Roman Forum and Ancient Agora.
- For a luxury short break in the very heart of the Athens, the Grande Bretagne has sybaritic rooms, indoor and outdoor pools and all the perks you'd expect from the grandest of Syntagma hotels.
For access to flights and ferries
Arriving late or leaving early? You'll find some of the best hotels for a stopover in Rafina and Piraeus, the city's two ferry ports, and at Athens International Airport.
Flickr user Jeffrey
- For an upscale stay at the airport, check out the Sofitel Athens Airport Hotel. It's across the road from the terminal, with an open-air terrace, indoor pool, fine dining in its Karavi restaurant and a 24-hour buffet.
- For a conveniently-located, family-run place to stay within walking distance of the ferry port in Rafina, you'll find Hotel Corali, on the town's main square and Avra Hotel, a modern property with an outdoor pool and all mod cons, right next to the harbour.
- Our top pick for a comfortable stopover in Piraeus is Piraeus City Hotel, a short walk from the ferry quays. The rooftop restaurant is a bonus.
For a road trip
If you're planning to begin a road trip around Greece from Athens, or using a rental car for day trips to iconic destinations like Delphi and Mycenae, steer clear of the city centre. Instead, look for hotels with secure parking and easy motorway access in neighbourhoods like Kifissia.
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- With parking facilities and a location just 2km off the motorway Coco Mat Hotel Nafsika is well placed for drivers, and also offers attractive rooms for a romantic break, a super restaurant, and luxury airport transfers.
Still not sure?