Athens will become home to Greece’s first hotel complex featuring luxury serviced apartments that are perfect for longer stays. Located in the Plaka district, in the centre of the city, guests will be able to access a meeting room, two restaurants a gym area, and a rooftop bar with views of the Acropolis.
Radisson RED Mitropoleos Square Athens will be run by the Radisson Hotel Group, under the Radisson Red brand and is set to open in the second half of 2023.
Radisson has partnered with the Greek investment company Gnosis Investments, which already owns 15 assets in Greece from hotels to residential properties and this project sees the conversion of an existing office building into modern lifestyle apartments.
Radisson RED Mitropoleos Square Athens, to open in 2023
“We are proud to partner with Gnosis Investments in this first project together to bring our real-estate efficient, urban, Radisson RED brand to the historic centre of the Greek capital,” says Elie Milky, Vice President of Development at the Radisson Hotel Group.
The property will be situated on Mitropoleos Square, in Athens’ famous Plaka neighbourhood, next to the Metropolitan Cathedral of Athens, near Syntagma Square. It’s in the heart of the CBD, and close to plenty of restaurants, bars, museums, and shops- making it easy for guests to walk to the nearby historic centre.
“Our goal is to create one of the most beautiful buildings in Athens, with an emphasis on luxury and creativity. We are developing short-term rental in Greece by offering a complete experience. We want to breathe new life into the city,” added Petros Politis, co-founder and CEO of Gnosis Investment.
In total, the Radisson RED Mitropoleos Square Athens will feature 94 serviced apartments with kitchenettes, as well as a 150 square metre meeting room, a fitness area, and two restaurants- one located on the ground floor, while the other will be found on the top-level (with direct views of the Acropolis)- where there will be an all-day rooftop bar and a restaurant run by a renowned chef.
The Hilton Hotel in Athens officially closed its doors yesterday, January 31, 2022, to undergo a complete makeover and will reopen in 2024, as a new luxury Conrad Hotel.
Athens’ Hilton Hotel first opened in the 1960s
Athens’ Hilton has been a classic choice for many travellers to the Greek capital, ever since it first opened as one of the city’s most impressive hotels in 1963- having been the first-ever chain hotel in the Greek capital. Since then it has welcomed A list of celebrities including Frank Sinatra, Igmar Bergman and Anthony Quinn, as well as Mikhail Baryshnikov, Plácido Domingo, the International Olympic Committee during the 2004 Games and many more VIPs. With breathtaking views of the Acropolis, the famous Galaxy rooftop bar/ restaurant, and a popular swimming pool lined by palm trees- it’s been adored by local and international guests alike.
According to an announcement by the owner company Ionian Hotel, the 130 million euros renovation will transform the property into a multidimensional destination as it aspires to contribute to the emergence of Athens as a top choice in Europe, for international and local guests.
The new reconstruction of the building complex will include 280 stylish rooms and suites, alongside 50 luxury homes, which will operate under the brands Conrad Residences and Waldorf Astoria Residences of Hilton.
Complete renovation of the top floor will feature gastronomic and lifestyle experiences for guests, and there will also be an expansion next to the pool area, which was included in the original design of the 1960s. The new complex will also include new commercial spaces, entertainment venues, wellness facilities, and a members-only club.
If you are heading to the Greek capital and looking for a luxury boutique hotel that pairs stand-out accommodation with award-winning fine dining, check out xenodoxeio Milos, which just opened its door in downtown Athens.
Offering fantastic, inventive dishes for breakfast lunch and dinner (made from locally sourced produce) lovers of gastronomy will be delighted with this new hotel that offers a culinary experience that is sure to hit the spot.
Located in downtown Athens, opposite the Old Parliament House- an area rich in history, culture, art and cuisine- xenodoxeio Milos offers a great base to explore the centre of the Greek capital and its surrounding neighbourhoods.
With 43 stunning rooms and suites boasting contemporary design, minimalistic art and sophisticated décor, each room is complemented by a series of handpicked personalised amenities. Featuring high ceilings, marble bathrooms, wooden floors, velvet soft furnishing, and spacious outdoor sunny terraces, guests are made to feel welcome from the moment they arrive. There are also private event spaces available, as well as rooftop yoga and pilates classes, and a gym on site.
Offering some of the world’s finest Mediterranean dishes from acclaimed founder and chef executive Costas Spiliadis (who has opened Milos restaurants in seven locations around the world including New York, London and Las Vegas) is ready to serve guests at his new spot that’s designed to please all the senses.
“Our purpose is uncompromised respect- to our guests and to the ingredients we create our dishes with. We select the finest fresh raw materials and cook them with minimum interference to preserve their impeccable natural taste. Our distinguished farmers and fishermen are carefully chosen by our founder, Chef Costas Spiliadis, whose quest for quality and perfection remains unchanged and renowned,” says management.
“The menu provides a world-celebrated take on Mediterranean cuisine. Our passion for seafood is evident in every dish and our love for purity can be traced in even the finest details. Be prepared to rediscover well-known dishes cooked like never before and to establish your new favourites. Our team of distinguished chefs always explore new ways to delight you,” they added.
Exciting new hotels are making their debut across Greece this year- from Samos and Santorini to Athens and Thessaloniki- we’ve rounded up the hottest new hotels in Greece that stand out for their dreamy locations, stylish designs, and chilled vibes!
Set on its own private beach, Cali Mykonos is a new luxury boutique resort that will feature 40 whitewashed villas all with their own private pools, alfresco dining area, and views of the Aegean Sea. For those who also like to mingle, there’s a communal infinity pool, state-of-the-art gym and spa, a fine dining restaurant, and a luxury range of yachts and speed boats waiting to sail you take you to nearby Cycladic islands.
Opening: June 2022
Brown Beach, Corinthia
Just 50 minutes drive away from Athens, this design resort in Corinthia boasts 166 design rooms and 110 bungalows. Unwind on your private balcony or relax by the pool, as you take in the splendid Peloponnesian views. Families and those seeking some action can take advantage of the tennis courts, pools, spa, a huge kids park, and lots more luxury experiences.
Located in the heart of Athens, this is the first luxury boutique hotel from the Greek restaurant group Estiatorio Milos. Offering an elegant stay in the heart of the Greek capital, here you can experience the city’s culture, history and gastronomy under one roof. The 43 rooms and suites (some of which boast spectacular Lycabettus Hill and Old Parliament House views) feature a modern feel with warm woods, velvet furnishings, and luxurious marble bathrooms throughout. One of the highlights is the restaurant with head chef Costas Spiliadis serving elevated Mediterranean dishes using local ingredients.
Opening: January 2022
One & Only Aesthesis, Athens Riviera
This new boutique hotel set in the glamorous Glyfada neighbourhood, features 127 private rooms, breathtaking suites, and private villas designed to highlight the beauty of the Athens Riviera. Boasting mid-century design- think high ceilings, woven leather, muted tones, and accent patterns- the two restaurants on-site are also set to be a hit with guests who will be able to enjoy authentic Greek mezes, seafood, meats, and vegan delicacies all sustainably and locally sourced.
Set beachfront in the traditional village of Akrotiri close to Zakynthos Town, the new, five-star property will have 55 suites and 10 villas, plus a relaxing wellness centre- perfect for anyone looking to unwind. Featuring contemporary chic decor and stylish furnishing choices, the modern suites are bright, open and airy- while also offering views of the breathtaking Ionian Sea.
Set in a historic waterfront building, Thessaloniki’s boutique hotel is housed in a historic building since 1926. Situated in the heart of the city- with unobstructed views of Thermaikos bay- the stylish new deco-inspired hotel features 60 lavishly designed rooms and suites; plus the main restaurant “Olympos Naoussa” (with its highly anticipated re-opening) as well as a beautiful inner courtyard, “Tiger Loop” cocktail bar, a fully-equipped gym, and a specially designed mezzanine ideal for business meetings and special events.
Opening: January 2022
Magma Resort, Santorini
Located on the tranquil side of Santorini, this boutique hotel features 59 stylish rooms including 24 suites with verandas, private pools, walk-in showers and cozy living areas. Guests are also welcome to experience the state-of-the-art Wellness Centre, and enjoy fine dining dishes at Magma by Spondi, curated by a two-starred Michelin Chef; otherwise, simply lounge by the infinity pool- overlooking the endless blue of the Aegean sea and nearby Anafi island.
Only a stone’s throw from the island’s Pythagorion village, the 128-room adults-only retreat will feature swim-up suites, countless swimming pools and its own private villa. Inspired by traditional Greek houses or the “Kamares” the hotel also features the seaside “Beach House” restaurant offering panoramic views of the Aegean Sea, a gym, an outdoor yoga shala and a wellness centre complete with spa suites, hammam massages and a nail salon.
With a range of lavish suites, this new upscale resort features a stunning design and modern comforts- allowing guests to feel right at home from the moment they arrive. Boasting private pools and breathtaking views of the magical Aegean, it’s also close to Elia beach. From great all-day dishes and stunning outdoor dining areas to a stunning spa- it’s the perfect spot to unwind after visiting buzzing Mykonos town.
A brand new 5-star hotel in the centre of Thessaloniki, Monasty is part of the exclusive Autograph Collection of Marriott International. This boutique hotel is the perfect spot for leisure or business, as it’s in close proximity to all the city’s main attractions- allowing guests to enjoy Thessaloniki’s rich history and culture.
Athens’ historic Hilton, which first opened its doors in 1963, as Greece’s first major international hotel is set to receive a 130 million euro redesign to become a new luxury hotel with premium private residences.
Hilton and Ionian Hotel Enterprises have announced an agreement for the new development, which marks the introduction of Hilton’s luxury brands — Conrad Hotels & Resorts, Conrad Residences, and Waldorf Astoria Residences to Greece.
Hilton Athens first opened its doors in 1963
As of 2024, the Hilton will be renamed Conrad and will include 280 modern rooms and suites, as well as about 50 private residences. In addition to the luxury hotel, the property will also include a members-only club, a range of eateries, bars, boutiques, entertainment venues, as well as leisure and wellness experiences.
“For more than half a century Hilton Athens has played a pivotal role in the city’s emergence as a global destination, welcoming international guests, royalty, and captains of industry. We’re incredibly proud to continue that legacy with the introduction of Conrad Hotels & Resorts alongside Waldorf Astoria and Conrad branded residences. With contemporary luxury interiors, seamless service, and stunning views overlooking the ancient citadel of the Acropolis, this is set to be an incredible addition to the portfolio,” said Simon Vincent, executive vice president and president, EMEA, Hilton.
According to Hilton, the new destination aims to introduce a well-curated blend of global and local brands that will inspire the capital’s residents, as well as a wide and inclusive audience, to experience the true spirit of modern Athens.
Dino Michael, senior vice president and global category head, of Hilton Luxury Brands said, “Athens is a city that perfectly responds to the needs of today’s luxury traveller. Steeped in history, with a thriving cultural and entertainment offering, it’s a fitting location in which to introduce our Conrad Hotels & Resorts brand. Increasingly, we’re also seeing significant demand for branded residences that offer our signature luxury hospitality, so we are particularly pleased to be expanding our partnership with IHE to introduce this exciting concept to Athens for the first time.”
Athens’ luxurious and famous Hotel Grande Bretagne has opened a stunning new outdoor all-day lounge, welcoming guests into its “secret garden”.
On the first floor of the Hotel Grande Bretagne, you will find an oasis, which is in the heart of the city, however here you feel as though you are miles away from the buzzing capital.
Here you can take in the surrounding olive trees, lush greenery, and pretty flowers, at what has been named “The Atrium of Alexander’s Lounge”.
Describing it as “the most elegant summer city escape”, the Hotel’s management says guests can, “Savour a flavourful menu inspired by Latin America, created by our Executive Chef Asterios Koustoudis, and his talented culinary and pastry team.”
The casual menu, which is ideal for a late lunch or light dinner, includes Spicy Veggie Taco, Chicken Tortilla Wraps, Prime Beef Burger, and finish off with a Bitter Chocolate Tart.
It’s the perfect place to catch up with a partner or group of friends, where you can also enjoy one of the impressive wines or lush cocktails made by the talented barmen.
Opening Hours: Every day from 11 am to 11 pm.
Address: 1 Vasileos Georgiou A, Syntagma Square Street, Athens
A neoclassical townhouse dating back to 1880, set in a culture-rich neighbourhood of Athens, has recently been turned into one of the city’s most stylish boutique hotels.
Built in the early 20th century, and sitting in the heart of Athens, in the upmarket Kolonaki quarter, Monsieur Didot is a beautifully renovated house providing guests with a ‘home-from-home’ feel; its mix of rooms and suites are spacious and luxurious, and interiors are a blend of modern architecture and contemporary aesthetics.
With attention to detail and an emphasis on authenticity, the hotel is ideal for those that love an old-world charm feel. Here travellers will find a genuine living experience and the warmest of hospitality; as spaces are designed to “host everyday stories unique to your being.”
Location
One of the hotel’s greatest assets is its location, as it’s set at the border of two extremely different yet genuinely characteristic districts of modern Athens. Kolonaki, an upmarket district on the one side, and Exarchia, a vibrant, hip, and alternative area of the city on the other. Just five minutes from the ‘Panepistimio’ metro station, the hotel is surrounded by theatres, museums, publishing houses, and historic bookstores, as well as countless cafés, bars, restaurants, and boutiques belonging to some of Europe’s largest fashion houses. Monsieur Didot’s house is the perfect setting from which to experience this extraordinary ancient city in all of its historic, cultural and creative glory.
Character & Style
A neutral palette and natural materials set the scene as some of Monsieur Didot’s suites and rooms are home to carved marble fireplaces; imposing bookcases; artwork; handmade ceramics; portraits of influential folk; lush greenery; marble balconies and private verandas that boast impressive city views. Intricately drawn ceilings and walls have been revealed and restored in the hotel’s main entrance, as well as in several guest rooms, whilst secret doors have been introduced to create a touch of mysticism. It also features custom-designed lighting that has been introduced into the building’s fabric, encouraging contrast, and a plurality of textures and shapes. And did we mention the show-stopping staircase?!
Rooms
Featuring four rooms and two suites governed by luxurious simplicity and an overriding feel of elegance, its architectural characteristics take centre stage and subtle references to the “all-time classic” aesthetic of “old Athens,” which shapes the personality of each space. You can book the whole first floor; where three rooms and a communal cozy sitting area at the first floor of the residence are joined and transformed into a private space with the capacity to host a large group of guests.
Food & Drinks
The day always begins with a lavish homemade breakfast, which guests can enjoy in their room or on the rooftop during the summer months. Inspired by the traditional Greek diet, carefully selected organic ingredients from all over the country are transformed into a delicious start to the day. Guests may also opt for a quick snack from the “all day” menu, designed by the hotel’s consultant chef, or have a bottle of wine accompanied with assortments of Greek deli products.
Guests also have the opportunity to experience the art of food and wine pairing with a wine connoisseur, who delights their senses with exquisite flavors and handpicked wines from Greece on Monsieur Didot’s terrace.
Finally, the team of Monsieur Didot has compiled a set of recommendations for the best restaurants, bistros, and cocktail bars in the neighborhood (and there are many of them) and in Athens in general, so guests can avoid tourist traps.
Ideal for…
Monsieur Didot is a friendly place for all kinds of travellers; including couples, families and small groups of friends (up to 7 people) can book the whole first floor of the residence and privately use the sitting area on that floor.
Larger groups (up to 16 people) can book the whole residence (4 double rooms, 2 suites, an indoor sitting area on the first floor, and an open-air terrace on the second floor).
Facilities
The rooftop features a cozy terrace, where visitors can have their breakfast or coffee on a sunny day, or a drink or glass of wine on warm nights. The open space offers a sense of discreet luxury and relaxation, incorporating a range of natural materials and exotic plant life to offer a living experience that is built around the principles of culture, well-being, and aesthetic pleasure.
With so many amazing rooftop bars and terraces around the city- serving elegant cocktails and offering splendid views of the Acropolis- we’ve rounded up a few of our favourite spots in town to unwind!
Galaxy, Hilton
This sophisticated and cool rooftop bar located on top of Hilton Athens is one of the most popular spots to grab a cocktail in the Greek capital. From the open-air terrace, you can enjoy stunning views of the ancient Acropolis and Lycabettus Hill along with (what feels like) the complete Athens skyline. Upscale in style and decor but laid back in vibe, here you can enjoy a bar menu along with delicious signature cocktails and a wide selection of wines.
A: Leof. Vasilissis Sofias 46, Athina
The Zillers Roof Garden
The Zillers Roof Garden Bar has been awarded as one of the best bars in Greece for 2020. Set at the top of the stunning hotel, it’s open from the morning where you can enjoy brunch through to midnight for after-dinner drinks.
A: Mitropoleos 54, Monastiraki
Bios
This part cultural centre/ part rooftop bar is ideal for creative and artsy types. Sit back on one of the lounge chairs and sip on a refreshing cocktail with interesting ingredients including ones that feature ice cream!
A: Pireos 84, Kerameikos
Hytra Roof Garden
A unique outdoor setting, with a panoramic view of the Acropolis, Lycabettus Hill, and the city skyline- it’s set on the seventh floor of the Onassis Cultural Center. The barmen here create unique cocktails, using freshly squeezed fruit juices and handmade syrups and liqueurs, based on old traditional recipes.
A: Onassis Cultural Center, Leof. Andrea Siggrou, Athens
City Zen
One of the newest rooftop spots in town, this gorgeous terrace in the heart of the historical centre of Athens has breathtaking Acropolis views. Housed in the top two floors of a renovated building of Athens, it’s the ideal spot to catch up with friends.
A: Aiolou 11, Athina
A for Athens
This is by far one of the local favourites in town where the talented mixologists prepare fabulous cocktails including a Spicy Margarita and a Passion Caramel Calypso.
A: Miaouli 2, Athina
Tudor Hall, King George II Palace Hotel
Located on the 7th floor of the famous King George II Palace Hotel, the rooftop offers a fantastic view of the historical sites of the capital. This rooftop bar offers well-made signature cocktails along with an impressive wine list. Tip: dress elegantly.
A: Vasileos Georgiou A 3, Athina
NEW Art Lounge
Head to the 7th floor of the hotel to sip on superb cocktails; accompanied by panoramic city views. Seating comes both on the al-fresco terrace, as well as inside the comfy lounge, where you are surrounded by over 2000 art books.
A: Navarcou Nikodimou, Syntagma 1, Athina
Anglais
Located in Monastiraki, this two-floor bar –the top one is an astonishing roof garden– offers not just drinks, food and coffees all day long but also breathtaking views.
A: Kirikiou 6, Athina
Air Lounge Roof Bar
A modern and stylish rooftop terrace with a stunning swimming pool, it’s perched on the 9th floor of a chic hotel. Here you’ll find a large selection of signature and vintage cocktails along with an impressive wine list.
A: Sofokleous 26, Athina
M Bar
On the 10th floor of the popular Electra Metropolis Hotel, you’ll find one of the very best rooftop terraces in Athens, which is usually buzzing with both local and foreign guests.
A: Mitropoleos 15, Athina
360 Cocktail Bar
The hotel’s cocktail bar in downtown Athens is set on the roof garden and invites guests to enjoy signature cocktails with memorable views of Acropolis- and breathtaking sunsets- sigh!
A: Ifestou 2, Athina
Penthouse 21
Perched on the 21st floor of the President Hotel Athens, this is not only the highest hotel rooftop bar in Athens but in all of Greece. Sophisticated and stylish in vibe, the rooftop bar has a large selection of cocktails and other drinks.
A: Leof. Kifisias 43, Athina
Thissio View Cocktail Bar
A short stroll from Monastiraki Square, this rooftop is extra special at sunset and a great spot to meet up with friends or that special someone for dinner and drinks.
A: Apostolou Pavlou 25, Athens
Point A
A favourite amongst locals, Point A is known for its fabulous ‘Tapas Cocktails’ as here you are always served a treat with your drink!
A: Rovertou Galli 4a, Athina
Retirè, Ergon House
Retirè is a new addition to the Athenian rooftop scene and the drinks menu has something for everyone. Known for their great cocktails, Retirè also has an impressive range of Greek wines and local beers.
A:23, Mitropoleos Street, Athina
Hotel Novotel
Located on the top floor of the Novotel, the rooftop bar offers majestic 360-degree views of the Lycabettus Hill, the Acropolis and the city skyline. Here you can sit back and enjoy the chill-out music and endless cocktails.
A:4, Michail Voda Street, Athina
Herodion Hotel
Set on the top of the Herodion Hotel, you can enjoy a wide range of inventive cocktails, plus Mediterranean and Greek gourmet dishes.
A: Rovertou Galli 4, Athina
Couleur Locale
An elevator will take you to the 3rd floor of this buzzing all-day bar-restaurant. It’s a go-to spot for locals who gather here for a drink- with a front view of the Acropolis.
A: Normanou 3, Monastiraki
The GB Roof Garden Restaurant and Bar
Located on the 8th floor of the famous Hotel Grande Bretagne, this is the perfect spot to sip on a glass of wine with a full view of the Acropolis and the Parthenon; as well as Lycabettus Hill and the Doric Greek Parliament at Syntagma Square. Tip: dress code is smart casual- no beachwear allowed.
Uninterrupted views of the Acropolis, rooftop bars, elegant designs and stylish decor… the city is now full of boutique hotels so lovely that you’ll definitely want to stay for longer than a few days. And with so many new ones to choose from, here we round up 7 of our favourite!
The Marblous Athens
Having recently opened its doors, Marblous is located in the heart of the city, close to Athens’ most vibrant neighbourhoods. Housed in a classic 1938 building, the design and decor are timeless and minimalist with blushing marble tiles and a pastel colour palette. Boasting a rooftop suite with views of the city and a charming breakfast bistro on the ground floor, it’s the ideal place to explore the lively city at your doorstep.
A: Voulis 24, Athens
Gem Society
Right in the heart of Athens’ Historic Triangle, The Gem Society opened in June 2020, in an immaculately restored mint-green building. Simple, modern and spacious, this is the ideal base for culture enthusiasts, history buffs and anyone who wants to feel right at home. There’s also a cool bistro serving up all-day brunch, and the decadent spa features a stone-built hammam, a custom-built Cycladic inspired jacuzzi and private treatment rooms where you can unwind.
A: Aristidou 3, Athina
Athens 1890 Boutique Hotel & Spa
Located in the centre of the Greek capital (only 300 m from Monastiraki) Athens 1890 opened its doors in September 2020, in a 19th-century textile store on Athinaidos Street. Spilling over six floors, there are 14 spacious rooms in total, some of which include a hot tub. There’s also a large open food hall on the ground floor; and a fully equipped spa. The mansion combines old-world charm with its elaborate facade, impressive wooden staircase, hand-painted ceilings and unique decor. Only steps away from the Acropolis hill and next to Ermou St– it’s an ideal starting point to explore Athens.
A: Saint Eirini square, Athinaidos 10, Athina
The Dilan
Located 300 metres from Acropolis Museum, The Dilan features 11 suites and apartments set in a renovated 1930s building in the heart of ancient Acropolis. Having opened in October 2020, the spacious private suites and apartments have a distinctive style that features exposed stone walls and concrete columns. From the moment you step inside, you feel right at home and some rooms include a fully equipped kitchen- ideal for visitors seeking longer stays. Close to well-known attractions, it’s set 600 metres from Herodes Atticus, 600 metres from the Temple of Zeus and 600 metres from the Parthenon.
A: Falirou 33, Athina
The Modernist
Located in Kolonaki, and housed in the former Canadian Embassy, The Modernist is just metres from some of the Greek capital’s best boutiques, restaurants, bars; and Lycabettus Hill and the Museum of Cycladic Art are just 600 metres away. The rooms come in S, M, L and XL, and feature customised furniture, mood lighting and seamless comforts, the hotel, which also has a restaurant and concept store on-site, combines casual, contemporary luxury with mid-century detailing and minimalist Danish design.
A: Ioannou Gennadiou 4, Athina
Asomaton
A century-old building in central Athens has been transformed into a boutique hotel, Asomaton opened its doors in August 2020. The building made from wood and stone was a horse carriage wheel repair shop in the early 1900s and its historical essence blends in beautifully with its new contemporary design. Here you will find an indoor swimming pool and spa to relax, plus a rooftop terrace where guests are served breakfast and evening drinks. It’s located very close to the Acropolis with amazing views from the terrace and New York-based Greek artist Philip Tsiaras hosts his pop-artworks onsite.
A: 10 Asomaton St, Athina
Oniro City
This is another boutique hotel that recently opened in Kolonaki. Poised along a leafy, tree-lined street in Athens’ fashionable neighbourhood, Oniro City has been designed and furnished with impeccable style, cool contemporary lines, warm, earthy tones and layered textures, that give it a warm and inviting feel. From a gourmet breakfast to evening dining, the hotel restaurant is a great place to eat and from here you are only footsteps away from other great spots for food and shopping.
A: Omirou 56, Athina
Athens Capital Hotel – MGallery
Opening its doors in mid- 2020, MGallery brings an understated level of finesse to this cosmopolitan and vibrant city. The hotel is located at Syntagma Square and features 177 guest rooms, which include 18 suites and an impressive Presidential Suite with spectacular views of Lycabettus Hill. The design is modern and decor walnut hues and sea-blue accents are highlighted with contemporary furnishings. Galerie Café, the hotel’s lobby bar is a great spot for guests to enjoy a cocktail before heading to MFlavors, the hotel’s in-house restaurant.
How often have you walked into a hotel room and wanted to know where the pillow cases are from? Or had a drink at the lobby bar and – before you’ve even finished your gin and tonic – lifted up the glass looking for the name of the brand?
If you would like to include some luxurious interiors and decor to your home- from bath and bed sets to coffee tables and teacups- here are a few chic pieces found in some of Greece’s leading hotels that you can now display in your own abode!
With four boutique hotels in the Greek capital alone, COCO-MAT is all about offering style and comfort, especially when it comes to their guests’ sleep. This unique brand is also one of the country’s leading producers of handcrafted beds and you can choose from a range of their locally made mattresses and headboards that are all made in Northern Greece, from locally sourced materials including wood, wool, cotton, and seaweed.
An iconic hotel set on the glamorous Athens Riviera, Astir is nothing less than pure luxury. Chances are as soon as you check-in, quite a few pieces will catch your eye, and what stands out for us are the bedsheets that not only look stylish but also offer a decent night’s sleep. These crisp cotton sheets and duvet covers come with the hotel’s discreetly embroidered logo, and the soft feather pillows are available too.
This bohemian boutique hotel overlooking the Mykonian sea combines Cycladic curves and nature-inspired interiors. Throughout the gorgeous spaces, you will find plush sofas, mix-and-match cushions, shelves full of cookbooks and ceramics that you can easily picture in your own home. And from velvet armchairs and brass drinks trolleys to luxe sofas and coffee tables, all the staples of the retro interiors found here can be sourced from Soho Home.
Known as one of Greece’s most luxurious hotels, this wellness retreat offers an exclusive and decadent experience, as Amanzoe’s sleek look is second to none. One of the best experiences during your stay here will no doubt be centred around the spa, where you can completely relax and unwind. And now you can have the ultimate at-home spa experience with Aman skincare range, which includes Purifying Auric Cleanse Bath Salts, Nourishing Golden Body Serum, Nourishing Body Mist, and Grounding Smoked Body Butter.
This 18th Century landmark is unquestionably Athens’ most luxurious hotel. Immaculately restored to the height of its old-world grandeur, it is perfectly located at Syntagma Square, in the heart of the city. Here you can wine and dine with uninterrupted views of the Parthenon and if you would like to add some Grande Bretagne glamour to your next dinner party you can choose from a range of their drinking glasses, or pick up a few pieces such as candles, infusers, as well as tea sets.
Ikastikies is a Cycladic-style boutique hotel that is charming and cozy, and as soon as you lay your head down on their soft pillowcases, you will no doubt want to sleep on them time and time again. Made of natural fabrics – these silk pillowcases are inspired by Santorini’s black volcanic stones and the island’s sugar-cubed white-washed homes.
We may not be able to get there for Valentine’s Day this year but these restaurants should be bookmarked for future reference.
Romance is certainly a very subjective notion – a luxurious dinner in a stunningly decorated Michelin-star restaurant might be romantic for some, while a souvlaki in a cozy pocket of Athens may be just as romantic for others. In this feature however we focus on the more classically romantic restaurants of the city, and although there are so many of them, the ones selected here are sure-fire winners for a grand majority of Athenian and foreign diners both.
The GB Roof Garden Restaurant
Awarded for its quality menu, sophisticated ambiance, excellent wine list and startling Acropolis views by Wine Spectator, the Grande Bretagne Hotel’s rooftop restaurant (on the eighth floor) is nothing if not glamorously romantic. The menu, created by Sotiris Evangelou and Asterios Koutsidis, centres on Mediterraean cuisine with ethnic touches. Luxurious ingredients and a creative, playful and modern approach offer you a delight that equals the panoramic visual beauty of the Acropolis, Lycabettus hill, the Panathenaic Stadium and Syntagma Square. This is also a great spot for starting your night on a high note for a cocktail and finger foods or nibbles at the roof garden bar.
A: Syntagma Square
Travolta
Seafood lovers can find an even deeper connection to each other and the riches of the Greek seas at this place. Its quirkiness – from being named after a Hollywood star to calling itself a ‘fish tavern’ while it serves some highly sophisticated and gourmet dishes and even its location in Peristeri, not exactly an area one would think of for dining out – have definitely contributed to its popularity. Here the romance comes more from the exchanges of delighted glances as you indulge in exciting flavours, rather than from the ambiance or decor. It can be fun for a couple to explore classic tastes like red mullet calamari served up in novel and highly palatable ways – such as a carpaccio of red mullet with sea urchin, or cuttlefish with orzo. There is a good selection of raw fish dishes too, including sushi and tartare.
A: Agiou Pavlou 33, Peristeri
Scala Vinoteca
Healthy, modern, sea-focused yet delicately indulgent enough to leave you feeling giddily satisfied, the menu is focused on a concept of fine dining that can please most palates. From ravioli filled with pear, aged pecorino cheese, jamon and mushrooms to Black Angus steak or lobster bolognaise and several ‘sharing platters’ you can clink forks over, this place also has a friendly service and cutting edge, warmly rustic yet also edgily romantic vibe.
A: Sina 50, Kolonaki
Aleria
Located in a beautifully refurbished neoclassical house with deco in warm tones and a fireplace, as well as a lovely garden for al fresco dining in summer, Aleria introduces you to Greek cuisine with a playful and healthy twist. Chef Gikas Xenakis combines modern techniques with old fashioned or classic recipes and local ingredients, offering a sense of innovation and discovery to diners. Dishes such as pumpkin puree with truffle and chestnuts or giant gigantes beans cooked in a red sauce with capers , yuzu and celery are as strange-sounding as they are delicious.
A: Megalou Alexandrou 57, Metaxourgeio
Cafe Boheme
Smart-casual, small and buzzy, this place is ideal for a dimly-lit Mediterranean feast that is as elegant and flavoursome as it is unpretentious. Attracting the city’s high-profile professional crowd in their low-key moments, the bar/restaurant is ideal for talking business at lunch and love at dinner. Dark wood, unique paintings by British artist Alison Wagstaffe covering the walls, tables decorated with flowers and candles and a real sense of privacy amongst the crowd are all romantic pluses at this central yet out f the way place. With a Mediterranean focus, the menu changes according to the season and is loyal to the concept of fresh, Greek and seasonal ingredients. Sample seafood, risottos, homemade thin crust pizzas, traditional dishes with a modern twist and a wonderful wine menu starring some of the best local wines.
If you are searching for an extra special place to stay in the heart of Athens, this striking mid-century 1920s residence that has been converted into a boutique hotel is ideal as it transports you to another world with its charming decor and eclectic style.
Shila is an ethereal late 1920s property located in the heart of the Greek capital and brings new meaning and inspiration to the concept of a boutique hotel. This is a place where you feel indulged and carefree, and at the same time, are able to experience an otherworldly realm of elegance and sensuality.
Sophisticated, mid-century vibe mixing, ethereal, romantic, vintage and antique furnishings in the classiest way. Each corner of this hotel has been expertly curated with stunning pieces of artwork and furniture. The property is filled with life and soul and truly feels lived in. Internal features take from the original architectural elements of the building.
Room Types
Cleverly combining elements of the bygone and the contemporary – this neoclassical house comprises of six distinctively designed suites, each unique in character, with a unifying element of simplicity and inviting charm. There are six rooms sleeping between 2 – 4 people, each differing and curated to create the ultimate romantic escape within the city. Art plays a big part within the hotel and each suite features its own collection as well as the lounge and library areas, which often host private exhibitions.
Facilities
The hotel features a lush courtyard, tranquil rooftop, lounging areas, and reading nooks, ideally suited for social gatherings, art exhibitions and private events. The sumptuous lounge and library area feature rustic walls, vintage fixtures, original 1920s mosaic floors, and an eclectic piano.
Ideal for… Couples and friends looking for a perfectly tranquil escape within a busy city.
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