The Best Airbnbs and Vacation Rentals in Athens

Located in the centre of Athens, near Syntagma Square, Olympus Residence comprises 15 urban-chic apartments accommodating up to ten people. The smaller studios come fully-equipped with standard amenities (including a kitchen), while the larger Deluxe Penthouse and Deluxe Apartment have three to five bedrooms and a living area. Each accommodation is individually decorated in neutral shades, with pops of bright greens and yellows. Just three minutes away, you’ll find Goulandris Museum of Modern Art, showcasing an impressive collection of works by contemporary artists.

If you’re looking for a super-classy option right next to the historical centre of Athens, NS Place combines ultra-modern interiors with ‘gram-worthy views. The minimal aesthetics and white, geometric décor of the property’s 10 apartments are cool and calming, while the open-plan kitchens, cosy living rooms (equipped with a Netflix-loaded 55” TV), bright, modern dining areas will make you feel right at home from the off. For a reminder you’re not, just open the balcony doors to Acropolis views.

Within walking distance of the Acropolis, in the quiet neighbourhood of Koukaki, is this five-floor apartment building containing six contemporary holiday apartments. Sleeping up to four guests, each apartment fuses contemporary, white-and-wooden notes with classic Ancient-Greek touches, conveyed through traditional motifs, touches of gold and Greek texts printed on the walls. Thoughtful extras such as Nespresso coffee makers, pot plants and books, are a smart touch, and if you like brunch, don’t miss nearby Kinono’s luscious eggs benedict.

Right next to Syngrou-Fix underground station in Koukaki, you’ll find this lovely one-bedroom, four-sleeping apartment. With classic, elegant furnishing and individual artworks, the rooms feel simultaneously luxurious and coy. The living area features a sofa bed, DVD player and a TV-equipped with Netflix, while a library and washing machine, as well as valet parking and concierge services make this feel more like a five-star hotel than a holiday apartment. Around the corner, Monsieur Barbu serves the most heavenly tiramisu pancakes.

These lavish apartments in the lively area of Thission (near Athens’s historical centre), sleep up to six and boast upscale interiors, first-class services and unrivalled views of the Acropolis. Apart from the suites’ refined bedrooms and sitting areas, the property houses two urban oases: a furnished courtyard garden with lemon and olive trees, and a verdant rooftop terrace with snuggly sun loungers. Pass by the bustling Monastiraki flea market ― only a three-minute walk away ― for a pair of Stavros Melissinos’s famous sandals.

Situated in the middle of Plaka, one of the city’s oldest, most picturesque neighbourhoods, Acro & Polis has one of the best locations in the city. The six apartments each sleep up to six and are charmingly outfitted with antique-style furniture in relaxing tones of white. Just outside, the fuchsia bougainvilleas will guide you through cobbled alleys, among neoclassical mansions, Cycladic-style houses and Byzantine churches. Don’t forget to rest on Yasemi’s picture-perfect steps for a homemade Greek delicacy and a colourful selfie. Alternatively, enjoy panoramic views of Plaka from Aphrodite apartment’s private terrace.

Five minutes from the up-and-coming Metaxourgeio neighbourhood ― which mixes offbeat bars with Michelin-starred restaurants ― you’ll find Athens Comfort Suites & Apartments. Elegant, modern furnishing, tones off coffee and cream and plenty of natural light make the 30 one-to-two bedroom apartments feel restful and cosy. The building’s front desk operates 24/7, and comes with a computer corner for those looking to catch up on work. The National Archaeological Museum of Athens, boasting the richest collection of ancient Greek culture in the country (more than 11,000 exhibits), lies a 12-minute walk away.

The elegant Art Pantheon Townhouse is set on a cobblestoned alley in the heart of Plaka, the so-called ‘Neighbourhood of the Gods’. Dating back to 1830, the building perfectly fits in with the 19th-century Neoclassical residences that dot this picturesque district. Following its refurbishment in 2018, the townhouse now boasts the chic interior design and amenities of a modern hotel. Its four independent suites are available for rent separately or by one large group of friends or family, accommodating 21 guests in total. The serene courtyard in the centre of the complex is an excellent spot for enjoying dinner or drinks al fresco.

This luxury villa in the upscale seaside town of Vouliagmeni has one key selling point: a private spa. A dedicated centre on the building’s ground floor features an indoor heated swimming pool, sauna, hammam and a host of gym equipment. The rest of Aqua Villa, spread over three floors, is equally luxurious, comprising four bedrooms, two living rooms, two dining rooms and one fully equipped kitchen. Guests also have access to a garden and private balconies. Set a short drive from the centre of Athens, this Airbnb is popular with guests wanting to combine exploring the historic Greek capital with a beach break.