аÄÃÅ¿ª½±½á¹û

By A.Savin-Wikimedia

Where to stay in Athens – Best area’s guide

The growth of this historic city has gained popularity among many people that plan to visit Greece. It is a must-stop for anyone traversing this beautiful country known as the home of democracy.

Athens attracts millions of tourists annually and is one of the most toured cities in Europe. Its main attraction being the imposing Acropolis and the Parthenon among other numerous monuments.

There is more to see in this city that has been in existence since the 5^th century.

The historic museums with ancient artefacts and has one of the longest footpaths leading to main archaeological sites at its historic centre.

Finding a place to stay in this city is not an uphill task, there are plenty of hotels to choose from as per your budget, convenient transport in and out of the city. The eateries and pubs are great and their hospitality is undisputed.

There are different areas in the city to choose from, so I have 5 best area’s guide on where to stay in Athens.

1. Plaka Area- most preferred by first-timers

The Acropolis as seen from Plaka By George E. Koronaios – Wikimedia

Plaka is characterized by narrow cobbled streets, cute boutique hotels, colourful markets, and several pubs that attracts flocks of tourists and locals.

It is in the old town area of Athens and is along the footpath leading to Acropolis, Agora and Temple of Hephaestus.

There are many 18^th century buildings in this area compared to other regions of the city. Many consider Plaka to be the most beautiful neighbourhood in the city.

This area is near some of the top attractions in the city and the country making it the most crowded region. Many tourists take advantage of this as their accommodation location, although this advantage makes it one of the costly places to stay in.

Despite the crowds, Plaka is easy and there are several footpaths where one can go for strolls admiring the neoclassical architecture or walk to historic sites with ease.

It is a perfect location for first-time travellers because it is centrally situated close to the historic sights and three metro stations to Acropolis, Syntagma and Monastiraki.

Other attractions one cannot afford to miss during their stay here include; Choragic Monument of Lysicrates, Roman Agora, Tower of the Winds, Plaka Anafiotika, Hellenic Children’s Museum, Museum of Greek Folk Musical Instruments, Frissiras Museum, Athens University History Museum, Museum of Pavlos and Alexandra Kanellopoulou.

2. Gazi Area-Budget friendly

Gazi Neighborhood By George E. Koronaios -Wikimedia

Gazi is the next neighbourhood in Athens that I’d recommend to anyone visiting Athens. It has more affordable accommodation options compared to Plaka and one can end up saving to visit more historic sights. The streets are defined by beautiful artwork.

This neighbourhood is also located close to top attractions in the city and walking is an option since it’s a short distance or through public transport that is nearby.

Gazi was previously an industrial area, the gas factory was turned into a museum and a cultural centre with rich information on the area and its people.

It was saved from bombing during the WWII due to its proximity to the Parthenon which stood no chance of getting damaged.

Staying in Gazi will not only save you money but also usher you to delicious Greek food served in the cafés and restaurants and have you look forward to an energetic nightlife.

During your stay in Gazi here are some sights and places to visit; walk through Iakou, Persephone’s, Dekeleon and Voutado streets, the cafés here serve the best cocktails and drinks in the evening till late.

3. Monastiraki

Monastiraki Square By Dimboukas – Wikimedia

Monastiraki is another great choice if you want to be as centrally located as possible. This area is well known by many that have been to Athens before.

It comes close to Gazi in its accommodation options. It is close to the metro station that connects to the rest of the city and country too.

This area is home to ‘Monastiraki Flea Market’ that comes alive every Sunday with local vendors selling their wares both tourists and locals.

The charming shops and boutiques in this region stock some of the best gift items such as souvenirs, clothes, and other beautiful collectables. The pubs and restaurants in this area are mostly on the rooftop and give the best panoramic views of the Acropolis and sunsets.

The streets here come alive in the evenings and throughout the night. It might get loud at night till early morning. This, therefore, makes it more suitable for those that can do with few hours of sleep. Families and older travellers may have long uncomfortable nights here.

Places to visit while here include: Hadrian’s Library, Tzistarakis Mosque, and Stoa of Attalos Fethiye Mosque, The Horologion of Andronikos Of Kyrrhos, Temple of Hephaestus, and Monastiraki Square.

4. Syntagma

Syntagma, Athens By Giorgoos – Wikimedai

This area of Athens is for those that want to be close to a major transport hub in the city. It is a short walking distance to the metro. The bus routes connect to other cities, towns and the airport in Greece.

Syntagma is also home to the Greek government offices and the parliament and has been the meeting point for protests and rallies in the city at its main square.

Its nearby neighbours include Plaka, Monastiraki and Kolonaki. This neighbourhood has sufficient high-end hotels, restaurants, pubs and cafés.

Syntagma has beautiful gardens with blooming colourful flowers and is perfect for photos or just to admire the flora. Other than Plaka, this area is also perfect for those visiting Athens for the first time.

Highlights of this region include Hellenic Parliament Building, National Garden, Botanical Museum of the National Gardens, Zappeion, Third Ephorate Of Ancient Antiquities, Statue of Lord Byron, Benaki Museum, and Jewish Museum of Greece.

5. Psyri-best area for nightlife

A Street in Psyri, Athens By Palickap – Wikimedia

Psyri is close to Monastiraki and is loved mostly by revellers. This neighbourhood comes alive at night with party lovers both local and tourists. It is Athens party central.

This area is said to have been established by people that moved from the Naxos island. They were defiant to authority for a long time.  This made many visitors avoid the region because of how things were run.

The air in the place slowly improved after pubs and artiste shops started to pop up in the area. Iroon Square has several nightclubs serving Greek’s traditional beer ouzo, it also hosts concerts, street art and open dances.

During the day, one can spend time browsing through the art shops for interesting art pieces, eat a meal in any of the nearby restaurants and cafés and there is plenty of sightseeing activities.

Due to the availability of many nightclubs in this area, it tends to get loud at night. It is, therefore, best for young travellers that love lively social scenes. The hotels in this area are also affordable.

Places not to miss while here are: Iroon Square, Emporikon Theatre, Theatro Kofon Ellados Athens Escape Room, Museum of Greek Gastronomy, and Church of Panaghia Kapnikarea.