10 luxury hotels in Athens, Greece

The 10 Best Hotels in Athens, Greece: Where Antiquity Meets Modern Opulence

Introduction

Picture this: you step onto a private balcony, the warm Attic sun on your skin. Before you, the ancient Parthenon stands in golden-white majesty against an impossibly blue sky, a monument frozen in time. Below, a vibrant, modern city hums with energy. This is the magic of Athens, a city where history is not just observed but felt, a living, breathing character in your story. Choosing where to stay in this legendary metropolis is not merely about a room; it is about selecting your vantage point for an epic, a stage from which your Grecian odyssey unfolds. The right hotel transforms a visit into an immersion, wrapping you in layers of myth, luxury, and unparalleled hospitality that is as warm as the Aegean sun.

This guide curates the ten definitive luxury hotels in Athens, Greece, each a masterpiece in its own right. Our selection was forged under a strict crucible of criteria. We sought properties that offer more than a bed; they offer a narrative. Architectural significance and design ethos were paramount—does the building converse with the city's soul? Location was scrutinized: is the hotel a gateway to ancient wonders, a serene coastal escape, or a portal to chic urban life? We evaluated service that anticipates desire, amenities that define indulgence (from rooftop pools with god-like views to spas steeped in olive oil rituals), and dining experiences that elevate Greek gastronomy to an art form. These ten sanctuaries represent the pinnacle, each a unique key to unlocking the profound and luxurious heart of Athens. Prepare to be transported.

How to Choose Your Perfect Hotel

Athens is a city of distinct personalities, and your ideal hotel acts as your anchor in the narrative you wish to live. First, consider the neighborhood. The historic Plaka and Makrygianni districts place you in a labyrinth of cobblestone streets at the foot of the Acropolis, perfect for history lovers who want to step directly into the past. Syntagma is the bustling political and commercial heart, home to grand dame hotels and high-end shopping, ideal for classic luxury and convenience. Kolonaki, nestled at the base of Lycabettus Hill, is the epitome of chic, with designer boutiques and art galleries, suited for the style-conscious traveler. For a seaside escape, the Athens Riviera offers a completely different rhythm—a world of private beaches, yacht clubs, and sunset cocktails, just a short drive from the archaeological core.

Next, define your traveler profile. Are you a couple seeking romance under the stars of the Acropolis? A family needing space and kid-friendly pools? A business traveler requiring seamless tech and central meetings? Or a design aficionado craving cutting-edge aesthetics? Your purpose dictates the perfect property. Finally, budget considerations in Athens' luxury scene range from the opulently classic to the boutique-chic. While all hotels on this list represent the upper echelon, price points vary by season, view category, and included amenities. Investing in a room with an Acropolis view or a suite with a private plunge pool often defines the quintessential Athenian experience. Choose your neighborhood, know your tribe, and let the city reveal its secrets from your perfect perch.

The Top 10 Hotels in Athens, Greece

1. Four Seasons Astir Palace Hotel Athens

Arrival feels like discovering a hidden kingdom. Nestled within a private, pine-forested peninsula on the Athenian Riviera, this resort is a sanctuary of mid-century modern glamour reborn. The scent of salt and Aleppo pine greets you, the Aegean a shimmering turquoise canvas at every turn. It's a world apart, yet Athens' ancient heart is within reach. Choose from three distinct buildings: the sleek Arion, the bungalow-style Nafsika, or the historic Apollo. Rooms are serene havens of marble, light wood, and nautical blues, with vast terraces framing sea or forest. The signature amenity is the collection of private beaches and coves, alongside multiple pools, a world-class spa by the sea, and eight exceptional restaurants and bars. It's perfect for discerning travelers, celebrities, and anyone seeking a coastal resort experience without forgoing metropolitan access. Price: $$$$.

2. Hotel Grande Bretagne

Stepping into the Grande Bretagne is stepping into living history. This legendary palace on Syntagma Square has been the social and political nucleus of Athens for over a century. The atmosphere is one of timeless, palatial grandeur—crystal chandeliers, gilded details, and a palpable sense of occasion. From its famed rooftop, the Acropolis view is arguably the most iconic in the world. The location is unbeatable for power and prestige, overlooking the Parliament and the Eternal Flame. Rooms and suites are classically opulent, adorned with antiques, rich fabrics, and marble bathrooms. Signature amenities include the stunning GB Roof Garden Restaurant & Bar, an exquisite spa with a Roman-style pool, and impeccable, discreet service. It's perfect for history buffs, dignitaries, and travelers who cherish old-world elegance and a central command post. Price: $$$$.

3. One&Only Aesthesis

On the glamorous Glyfada coast, One&Only Aesthesis is a celebration of the 1960s Athenian Riviera golden age, reimagined for the modern jet-setter. The vibe is effortlessly cool, bohemian, and artistic, spread across a lush, beachfront estate. Think private bungalows and villas nestled among gardens, direct access to a vibrant beach club, and an atmosphere of playful luxury. The design, by famed architect K-Studio, blends organic textures, curved lines, and a soft, earthy palette that complements the natural surroundings. Rooms are spacious retreats with outdoor living areas. The signature amenities are the vibrant beach club, the exquisite Chenot Espace wellness clinic, and the collection of stylish bars and restaurants pulsating with energy. It's perfect for the stylish, social traveler, couples, and wellness seekers wanting a vibrant, design-forward coastal retreat. Price: $$$$.

4. Mandarin Oriental, Costa Navarino

While not in central Athens, this Peloponnesian masterpiece is included for those extending their Grecian luxury journey. It is a destination in itself, a serene, low-rise village cascading down hillsides towards the Ionian Sea. The atmosphere is one of profound peace, connection to nature, and understated, elegant sustainability. The location in Messinia is a gateway to ancient Olympia, pristine beaches, and olive groves. Villas and suites are sublime, featuring private pools, minimalist decor inspired by local craftsmanship, and breathtaking sea views. Signature amenities are unparalleled: two signature golf courses, a vast, groundbreaking spa, a private beach, and multiple culinary venues celebrating hyper-local produce. It's perfect for golfers, wellness pilgrims, families, and travelers seeking a multi-day, immersive resort experience in unspoiled nature. Price: $$$$.

5. AthensWas

AthensWas is a sleek, contemporary temple to modern design, sitting literally in the shadow of the Acropolis. The atmosphere is one of curated cool—a minimalist, glass-and-stone facade gives way to an interior that is both warm and strikingly modern. The location on Dionysiou Areopagitou, the grand pedestrian promenade, is perfect for culture vultures, placing every major archaeological site at your doorstep. Rooms are studies in minimalist luxury, with smart technology, designer furnishings, and, for many, that jaw-dropping, private Acropolis view from the balcony. The signature amenity is the rooftop restaurant, where fine dining meets a cinematic panorama of the Sacred Rock. It's perfect for design enthusiasts, couples, and urban explorers who want a stylish, intimate base at the epicenter of ancient Athens. Price: $$$.

6. The Dolli at Acropolis

Housed in a meticulously restored 1925 neoclassical mansion, The Dolli is an art-filled sanctuary and a love letter to collected beauty. The atmosphere is intensely personal, bohemian, and chic, feeling more like the exquisite private home of a cultured art collector. Located in the heart of Plaka, it is enveloped by the charming chaos of the old town, yet behind its doors lies an oasis of calm. The interior is a captivating mix of original architectural details, contemporary art, and vintage designer furniture. Each room is unique, a curated gallery of its own. The showstopper is the stunning rooftop pool and lounge, offering an intimate, breathtaking Acropolis vista. It's perfect for art lovers, romantics, and seekers of unique, boutique character with a phenomenal location. Price: $$$$.

7. Electra Metropolis

Electra Metropolis stands as a beacon of modern luxury on Ermou Street, Athens' premier shopping avenue. The atmosphere is cosmopolitan, sleek, and centrally energetic, catering to those who want to be in the thick of it. The location is prime for shoppers and urban explorers, midway between Syntagma and Monastiraki. The design is contemporary, with clean lines and a sophisticated palette. However, its crown jewel is the tenth-floor rooftop, featuring a gorgeous infinity pool and a bar that serves up one of the most direct, unobstructed views of the Acropolis in the city—a stunning contrast of ancient and modern. Rooms are comfortable and well-appointed, with many offering splendid city views. It's perfect for shoppers, business travelers, and those who want a vibrant, modern hotel with an incredible rooftop pool vista. Price: $$-$$$.

8. King George Athens

As the elegant sibling to the Grande Bretagne, King George offers a slightly more intimate, yet equally regal, palace experience on Syntagma Square. The atmosphere is one of refined, residential grandeur, with a touch of art deco flair. It feels like a luxurious Athenian apartment building from a bygone era. The location shares the unparalleled political and commercial centrality of its neighbor. Suites are exceptionally spacious, many with furnished terraces and iconic Acropolis views. The legendary Tudor Hall restaurant on the seventh floor is the signature amenity—an award-winning fine-dining establishment with a panoramic glass-walled view that will steal your breath. It's perfect for travelers who love the grandeur of the Grande Bretagne but prefer a quieter, more intimate scale, and for gourmands seeking an unforgettable meal with a view. Price: $$$$.

9. COCO-MAT Athens BC

This hotel is a manifesto for holistic, eco-conscious living wrapped in stunning minimalist design. The atmosphere is serene, zen-like, and deeply connected to natural well-being. Located near the Acropolis Museum, it's in a peaceful yet central part of Makrygianni. The entire philosophy revolves around the famous COCO-MAT natural sleep products; every bed is a cloud of organic materials. The design aesthetic is a beautiful wabi-sabi blend of raw concrete, stone, and warm wood. Signature amenities include a lovely basement spa with a pool, a superb organic breakfast, and a rooftop bar with, of course, an Acropolis view. It's perfect for wellness-focused travelers, design minimalists, and those who believe true luxury is a perfect night's sleep in an ethically minded environment. Price: $$$.

10. New Hotel

A vibrant burst of creative energy in the upscale Kolonaki district, New Hotel is a playful design statement by the famed Campana Brothers. The atmosphere is fun, artistic, and unexpectedly whimsical. The location is ideal for those who want a chic, local neighborhood vibe, surrounded by galleries, cafes, and boutiques. The design uses recycled materials, bold colors, and custom furniture inspired by Greek "evil eye" talismans and traditional *karagiozis* shadow puppets. It's a feast for the senses. Rooms are unique and full of character. The signature amenities include a fantastic modern Greek restaurant, a cool art lounge, and a small but charming fitness center. It's perfect for the young-at-heart, design adventurers, and travelers who want a hotel experience that is colorful, conversation-starting, and deeply connected to local art and culture. Price: $$-$$$.

Neighborhood Guide: Where to Stay

Syntagma & Constitution Square

The historic and political nucleus. This area pulses with formal energy, home to the Hellenic Parliament, the Tomb of the Unknown Soldier, and luxury shopping on Voukourestiou Street. Staying here means being at the crossroads of everything—grand, classic, and supremely convenient. You're a short walk from the National Garden and a quick metro ride or stroll to the Acropolis. The vibe is polished, powerful, and timeless. Hotels here: Hotel Grande Bretagne, King George Athens.

Plaka, Anafiotika & Makrygianni

The soul of ancient Athens. These intertwined districts at the base of the Acropolis are a maze of neoclassical homes, flower-draped alleyways, and quaint tavernas. Plaka is charmingly touristy, Anafiotika is a hidden Cycladic village, and Makrygianni is quieter, home to the superb Acropolis Museum. Staying here means living within a postcard, with the Parthenon as your constant companion. The vibe is romantic, historic, and deeply atmospheric. Hotels here: AthensWas, The Dolli at Acropolis, COCO-MAT Athens BC.

Kolonaki

Athens' most fashionable quarter. Nestled on the slopes of Lycabettus Hill, this is where the city's elite shop, dine, and socialize. Think designer boutiques, contemporary art galleries, and sophisticated cocktail bars. The vibe is upscale, local, and discreetly chic. It's less about ancient ruins and more about modern Athenian lifestyle. Hotels here: New Hotel.

City Center & Ermou

The commercial and retail heartbeat. This bustling zone centered around Ermou Street is for those who want to be in the constant flow of city life, with easy access to markets, mid-range shopping, and the vibrant nightlife of Psiri. The vibe is energetic, central, and urban. Hotels here: Electra Metropolis.

The Athens Riviera

A world of coastal glamour. Stretching south from the city centre to Cape Sounion, this is where Athenians escape for beach clubs, marina life, and spectacular sunsets. Staying here offers a resort experience—private beaches, pools, and a slower pace—with the city just a 20-40 minute drive away. The vibe is leisurely, luxurious, and seaside chic. Hotels here: Four Seasons Astir Palace Hotel Athens, One&Only Aesthesis.

Best Hotels for Specific Experiences

Best for Romance

For an unforgettable romantic escape, The Dolli at Acropolis is unparalleled. Its intimate, art-filled setting, unique rooftop pool with private cabanas, and dreamy Acropolis views create a profoundly sensual and private atmosphere. Alternatively, a sea-view suite at the Four Seasons Astir Palace offers secluded luxury, private beach dinners, and stunning Riviera sunsets.

Best for Families

The Four Seasons Astir Palace and Mandarin Oriental, Costa Navarino are standouts. Both offer vast grounds, multiple pools (including children's pools), kid-friendly beaches, dedicated children's clubs, and spacious suite or villa accommodations with separate living areas, providing room and activities for all ages.

Best for Business Travelers

Hotel Grande Bretagne is the undisputed champion. Its central Syntagma location, impeccable service, legendary meeting spaces, and seamless connectivity make it a powerhouse. The rooftop is the perfect place to impress clients, and the business center and concierge can handle any request with discrete efficiency.

Best Boutique Hotels

The Dolli at Acropolis and New Hotel define Athenian boutique luxury. The Dolli offers curated, residential elegance, while New Hotel delivers a bold, artistic statement. Both provide highly personalized service, unique design narratives, and a deep sense of place that larger hotels cannot replicate.

Best Value Luxury

Electra Metropolis and COCO-MAT Athens BC offer exceptional value. Electra Metropolis provides a prime location, modern comforts, and that phenomenal rooftop pool with an Acropolis view at a relatively accessible price point. COCO-MAT offers a unique wellness-focused philosophy, superb design, and a fantastic location for a truly distinctive experience that feels luxurious without the palace price tag.

Dining & Amenities Spotlight

The culinary and wellness scenes within these top 10 luxury hotels in Athens, Greece are destinations in themselves. For rooftop dining that defines a lifetime memory, the GB Roof Garden at the Grande Bretagne and Tudor Hall at King George set the gold standard, pairing Michelin-star-level modern Greek cuisine with the Parthenon as your dining companion. The Four Seasons Astir Palace is a gastronomic village with options from authentic Italian at Mercato to exquisite seafood at Pelagos. For a vibrant, social scene, the beach clubs and bars at One&Only Aesthesis pulse with a chic, festive energy.

Wellness is elevated to an art form. The Spa at the Four Seasons Astir Palace offers thalassotherapy and treatments inspired by Hippocrates in a serene, sea-facing environment. The Chenot Espace at One&Only Aesthesis is a state-of-the-art medical wellness clinic for transformative programs. For a more intimate, holistic approach, the COCO-MAT Athens BC spa focuses on natural treatments and a calming underground pool. Unique services abound: the Grande Bretagne's concierge can arrange private after-hours tours of the Acropolis; the Four Seasons has a fleet of luxury cars and a private yacht for coastal exploration; and The Dolli offers curated art tours of its collection and the surrounding galleries. These amenities aren't additions; they are integral chapters of your Athenian story.

Booking Tips & Insider Secrets

To secure the best experience at these top 10 luxury hotels in Athens, Greece, timing and strategy are key. When to Book: For peak season (June-September), book at least 4-6 months in advance, especially for rooms with Acropolis or sea views. Shoulder seasons (April-May, October) offer glorious weather and better rates; book 2-3 months ahead. Secrets for Upgrades: Be polite and mention special occasions (anniversary, birthday) at check-in. Booking directly through the hotel's website often yields better upgrade potential and added benefits like breakfast or spa credit. Consider arriving slightly later in the evening when room assignments are clearer.

Best Seasons: Late spring (May) and early autumn (September-October) are ideal—warm, sunny, less crowded. July and August are hot and busy, but perfect for Riviera stays. Loyalty Programs: If you frequent Four Seasons, Mandarin Oriental, or Marriott (which includes The Dolli and others), leverage your status. For independent hotels, signing up for their newsletter can unlock exclusive offers. Athens-Specific Strategies: Always inquire about the "view category." The price jump for an Acropolis view is almost always worth it. For Riviera hotels, ask about transfer options; some offer luxury car service from the airport. Finally, a well-timed email to the concierge before arrival to arrange a specific tour or restaurant reservation can work wonders and signal you are a guest who values bespoke service.

Practical Information for Hotel Guests

Navigating Athenian luxury is seamless with a few key pointers. Check-in/out: Standard check-in is around 3 PM, check-out by 12 PM. Most luxury hotels will accommodate early arrival or late departure by storing luggage, and if the room is available, may offer early check-in. Tipping Culture: While a 10-15% service charge is often included in restaurant bills, additional tipping is appreciated for exceptional service. For hotel staff, 2-5 euros per bag for porters, 5-10 euros per day for housekeeping left in the room, and similar for concierge who arrange complex services is customary. Language: English is widely spoken, especially in hospitality. Learning a few Greek phrases like "Efharistó" (thank you) is warmly received.

Transportation: From the airport, pre-book a hotel car for ease, or take a fixed-fare taxi (approx. 38-55€ to the centre). The metro is efficient and connects to Syntagma. Within the city, taxis are plentiful and inexpensive; use the FreeNow app. The historic centre is best explored on foot. Safety Tips: Athens is generally very safe. Standard precautions apply: be aware of pickpockets in crowded tourist areas like Monastiraki and on the metro. Your hotel safe is the best place for passports and valuables. The concierge is your best resource for any safety or local advice. Embrace the Greek concept of "philoxenia" (friendliness to strangers); you are a guest, and they are honored to host you.

Sample 3-Day Itinerary

Day 1: Ancient Grandeur & Urban Chic. Check into AthensWas or The Dolli in Makrygianni/Plaka. Drop your bags and immediately feel the history. Walk the Dionysiou Areopagitou promenade to the Acropolis entrance. Spend the morning marveling at the Parthenon. Descend to the Acropolis Museum for lunch with a view of the excavations. Late afternoon, wander the labyrinthine streets of Anafiotika. As sunset approaches, head to your hotel's rooftop (or the nearby Electra Metropolis rooftop) for a cocktail with the illuminated Acropolis. Dine at a traditional taverna in Plaka.

Day 2: Coastal Glamour & Riviera Rhythm. After breakfast, check out and take a pre-arranged transfer to the Four Seasons Astir Palace or One&Only Aesthesis on the Riviera. Embrace the resort life: secure a sunbed by the pool or on the private beach, book a spa treatment, and soak in the serene, pine-scented air. In the late afternoon, take a hotel car to the Temple of Poseidon at Cape Sounion for a breathtaking sunset over the Aegean. Return for a sophisticated seafood dinner at your resort's signature restaurant, listening to the waves.

Day 3: Regal Athens & Culinary Heights. Enjoy a final leisurely breakfast by the sea. Check out and head back to the city centre. Store your luggage at the Hotel Grande Bretagne (even if not staying, their concierge may assist if you have a booking at their restaurant). Explore Syntagma Square, watch the Evzones guard change, and stroll through the National Garden. Indulge in some high-end shopping in Kolonaki. For your grand finale, savor a long, unforgettable lunch at the GB Roof Garden or Tudor Hall, drinking in the panoramic Acropolis view one last time before your departure.

Conclusion

From the palatial halls of Syntagma to the chic beach clubs of the Riviera, and the art-filled mansions of Plaka to the design-forward retreats of Kolonaki, these ten hotels define the luxurious soul of modern Athens. They are more than accommodations; they are custodians of experience, offering unique portals through which to understand this timeless city. Whether your dream is to wake up to the sight of the Parthenon, to fall asleep to the sound of the Aegean, or to be cradled in art and design, one of these sanctuaries holds your key. Our final recommendation is to choose based on the story you wish to tell. For the quintessential, iconic Athenian experience, the Hotel Grande Bretagne or The Dolli are unbeatable. For a transformative escape that blends city and sea, the Four Seasons Astir Palace is peerless. No matter your choice, you are not just booking a room; you are securing a front-row seat to history, luxury, and the unforgettable drama that is Athens.

FAQ - Top 10 Hotels in Athens, Greece

Which hotel has the best view of the Acropolis?

While several hotels offer spectacular views, the rooftop pools and bars at the Hotel Grande Bretagne, King George, and Electra Metropolis provide some of the most direct and breathtaking panoramic vistas. For a private balcony view, rooms at AthensWas, The Dolli, and certain suites at the Grande Bretagne are unparalleled.

Is it better to stay in central Athens or on the Athens Riviera?

It depends on your trip goals. For a first visit focused on archaeology and city exploration, central Athens (Plaka, Syntagma) is essential. For a holiday blending culture with resort relaxation, beach time, and a more leisurely pace, the Riviera is perfect. You can also split your stay between both.

What is the best time of year to visit Athens for a luxury hotel stay?

Late spring (May to early June) and early autumn (September to October) offer the ideal combination of glorious, warm weather, fewer crowds, and more pleasant conditions for sightseeing. This is when the luxury experience is at its most relaxed and enjoyable.

Are these luxury hotels family-friendly?

Yes, particularly the resort properties. The Four Seasons Astir Palace, Mandarin Oriental Costa Navarino, and One&Only Aesthesis excel with children's clubs, family pools, and spacious suite/villa accommodations. City hotels like the Grande Bretagne and King George are also very welcoming to families, offering connecting rooms and special amenities for kids.

How far in advance should I book a luxury hotel in Athens?

For the peak summer season and for specific rooms with iconic views, booking 4 to 6 months in advance is highly recommended. For shoulder seasons, 2 to 3 months is usually sufficient, but last-minute deals at these top-tier properties are rare.

What is the dress code for hotel restaurants and rooftop bars in Athens?

Athens is stylish but not overly formal. For fine-dining restaurants like the GB Roof Garden or Tudor Hall, smart casual to elegant attire is expected (collared shirts, dresses, no shorts or flip-flops at dinner). For casual hotel restaurants and daytime by the pool, resort wear is perfectly acceptable.

Do these hotels offer airport transfers?

Absolutely. All of these top 10 luxury hotels in Athens, Greece offer private airport transfer services, typically in luxury sedans or vans. It is highly recommended to arrange this through the hotel concierge prior to arrival for a seamless, stress-free beginning to your stay.