The Best Boutique Hotels to Book in Athens, Greece

Ideally located on the hip Nikis Street, in the heart of Athens’s happening Thissio district, Niki Athens Hotel is a family-run business offering stylish and affordable boutique accommodation with minimalist design. The newly renovated building houses loft-style rooms that channel urban chic yet retain a distinct cosiness. The cool in-house coffee bar features neon wall decor, and is an ideal spot for a casual brunch or nightcap. Staying here, you’ll be a stone’s throw from the most famous landmarks in the Greek capital, including Syntagma Square and the main pedestrian shopping strip, Ermou Street. Nikis Street itself has many independent eateries and unique stores to explore.

Check in to the Coco-Mat design hotel for a blissful sleep. This new boutique hotel in Athens’ affluent Kolonaki neighbourhood combines style and comfort with an ecofriendly ethos, featuring natural mattresses, organic bed linens and a 12-option premium pillow menu. Housed in a modernist building dating back to 1935, the hotel boasts an elegant rooftop garden with a breathtaking view of the Acropolis. Rent a one-of-a-kind wooden Coco-Mat bike from the lobby to explore the must-see spots in the surrounding area, including art galleries, the National Gardens and Greek Parliament.

This neoclassical townhouse in the picturesque Plaka neighbourhood is characterised by a fusion of historic grandeur and contemporary chic. Designed by renowned Greek-German architect Ernst Ziller, the 10-room Zillers boutique hotel has fresh, modern interiors that incorporate elements of the building’s heritage – expect wrought-iron balconies and marble bathrooms. A hotspot for al fresco fine dining and sunset cocktails prepared by in-house mixologists, the renovated roof garden offers unparalleled views of the historic centre, with the Acropolis as the backdrop.

A renovated warehouse that celebrates its industrial roots via innovative design details, 18 Micon Street is urban chic personified. The historic building retains its original pale marble, flint-grey tones and textures of weathered terracotta, but its amenities are best described as modern luxury: the boutique hotel’s contemporary elements include walk-in rain showers and in-room smartphones preloaded with guides to the local area. Guests can rest and refresh in the Decompression Lounge, or hang out over a complimentary tea or coffee in the open-plan lobby lounge that doubles up as a prime people-watching spot. Being in the eclectic Psirri neighbourhood, you’ll find authentic ouzerias and artisan goods on your doorstep.

An urban paradise awaits at the Foundry Suites. With a distinct industrial feel, the collection of 12 sleek and spacious apartments are individually designed, with unique finishing touches including original exposed stone walls, a vintage piano and retro mid-century furniture. Each suite combines open-plan living with Crittall-style floor-to-ceiling windows, high ceilings and split-level spaces. The facade of the 1930s property features a striking vertical garden, while the greenery continues on the lush roof terrace, where guests will find views of the Parthenon, a picnic area and a bar. The Foundry is situated in a trendy central location, with independent stores and nightlife, the Monastiraki flea market and the ancient Agora all within walking distance.

It’s hard to believe that there could be a hidden gem just a 15-minute walk from the Acropolis, but the intimate Athenian Residences boutique hotel certainly qualifies. Beyond the grand entrance gates, the elegant yet homely accommodation comprises three modern apartments and two traditional stone-built 1920s-era maisonettes with original flooring and handmade furniture. Rooms are supplied with hypoallergenic linens and natural olive oil toiletries. A private courtyard for guests features a small pool and shade under an olive tree – offering some much-needed seclusion in the city. For those eager to start the day exploring early, breakfast boxes are provided, perfect for a morning picnic on nearby Filopappou Hill.

Hit the Riviera for a beach and city break at the Margi Hotel in the cosmopolitan coastal suburb of Vouliagmeni. This five-star Athens boutique hotel is a short walk away from a sandy beach, tucked away among aromatic pine trees. The chic interiors feature a neutral colour palette of earthy tones, while its elegant pool area features floating sun loungers. Mediterranean fine dining is the order of the day at the in-house Patio restaurant, which sources fresh ingredients from the hotel’s own Margi Farm. For the ultimate rejuvenation, visit the luxurious Margi Spa for a treatment using organic products, and unwind in the indoor pool, steam and sauna room. Athens city centre is located 19km (12mi) from the hotel and can be reached in just 25-35 minutes by car, meaning that guests at Margi can combine the best of city and seaside life.