Places to Stay in Athens, Greece

If you visited Athens before they hosted the Olympics in 2004, then you'll find it a very different city now. The historic centre, with cars banished, is more stunning than ever, and the regeneration going on in the lead up to the games hasn't stopped. So it's Europe's oldest city, but with so much gentrification, it's also one of Europe's freshest.

Historic Athens

The Acropolis and the areas surrounding it have seen some of the most dramatic changes. Removing all the cars has made it cleaner, more open and more welcoming. So that the archaeological park has become more of a cultural and social hub again.

The Agora, heart of public life in ancient times, is still a wonderful place to start your visit. Admission to the Agora means you're admitted to the whole Acropolis, so that's the Parthenon, the Temple of Athena, the Erechtheion… Etc. They give you two days on your ticket.

• King George Palace has stunning views of the Parthenon, especially from the restaurant and the roof terrace. If you're looking for luxury this is one of the best places to stay in Athens. Its five stars are for its opulence, but with a contemporary twist. This all adds up to make this one of the most romantic places to stay in Athens.

Anafiotika is the neighbourhood on the northern slopes of the Acropolis hill, and it's worth exploring for the white washed houses and tiny 19th Century streets as you pass through to go to the old bazaar.

Athens City Break

Pedestrianising great swathes of the city centre has helped deal with Athens' notorious pollution problem. And central areas like Gazi and Psyrri, which were clogged with cars previously, are now packed with cafes, restaurants and bars. Which suits the Athens lifestyle - one of making time to stop for coffee in outdoor cafes, and evening strolls and eating out late.

The gentrification in some areas has been led by the new galleries and leisure precincts opening up around town. Including the Benaki Museum.

If you're here on a Sunday visit the big flea market in Avissynias Square.

The public transport system also got an overhaul, as did the airport, so now it's a lot easier to get in and get around. Almost every hotel in the city got a facelift as well - dozens of shabby old drums reemerged as colourful, fun boutique hotels, which are now some of the best places to stay in Athens.

• A trendy boutique hotel, the Art Hotel Athens is one of the best places to stay in Athens of you're after a city break bolt hole close to all the major sights. Built in the Neo-Classical style of the 1930s, this hotel has been nicely renovated inside to favour pale colours and original art. It's also a good option if you're looking for a reasonably priced hotel.

• If you're after funky with a modern art twist then the Pallas Athena is one of the best places to stay in Athens. Rooms and public areas have themes based on graffiti and modern-urban artists, illustrators and graphic designers. It is definitely a quirky place to lay your head!

• For easy access to the airport and the centre of town one of the best places to stay in Athens is the Fresh Hotel. It's on the Metro line from the airport, in an area once sleazy and now regenerated. If you like your decor colourful in a 60s way then this is definitely one for you.

Athens for Families

Athens is open all year round - it even has its own beaches where you can comfortably swim until the end of October. But it's at its best in autumn and spring.

For a view over the whole city venture up Mount Lycabettus. You can hike up or catch the funicular.

If you want to stay somewhere with a view of the Acropolis look no further than St. George Lycabettus. Book yourself a south facing room, or visit the rooftop pool for some really spectacular views of the whole city. Because it's in an upmarket residential area this is also one of the best places to stay in Athens with a family.