WHERE TO STAY in Athens [Watch BEFORE you book a hotel]

Summary

In this video, tour guide Sebastian provides a comprehensive guide on where to stay in Athens, focusing on seven key neighborhoods: Psyri, Monastiraki, City Center, Syntagma, Plaka, Makrygianni, and Thiseio. He highlights each area's unique vibe, from Psyri’s nightlife and affordable taverns to Makrygianni's proximity to the Acropolis and peaceful atmosphere in Thiseio. The guide also emphasizes the importance of staying within walking distance of major attractions and advises against staying in the Omonia neighborhood. The video also touches on the Athens Riviera for those interested in beachside stays during extended visits.

Takeaways

• 😀 Stay within walking distance of key attractions like the Acropolis, Ancient Agora, and museums for convenience.
• 😀 Psyri is a great neighborhood for affordable hotels, nightlife, and local taverns, but it can get noisy on weekends.
• 😀 Monastiraki is ideal for shopping, flea markets, and rooftop bars with Acropolis views, but be cautious of pickpockets.
• 😀 The city center offers street food delights like souvlaki and falafel but lacks Acropolis views and can be expensive.
• 😀 Syntagma is perfect for shopping and luxury hotels with Acropolis views but is less charming due to heavy traffic.
• 😀 Plaka is a picturesque, touristy area with cafes and restaurants near the Acropolis, but can be crowded and pricey.
• 😀 Makrygianni offers the best Acropolis view from hotels and is close to key attractions, though it lacks food and nightlife options.
• 😀 Thiseio is the quietest neighborhood, perfect for peaceful walks, but has limited restaurants and nightlife.
• 😀 Avoid staying in Omonia due to safety concerns with homelessness and drug addiction, despite cheap hotel options.
• 😀 The Athens Riviera offers beaches but only if you're not planning to visit nearby islands—it's better for a relaxing stay.

Q & A

What are the seven neighborhoods in Athens that are recommended for staying?

The seven recommended neighborhoods in Athens are Thiseio, Psyri, Monastiraki, the city center, Syntagma, Plaka, and Makrygianni.

Why is staying within walking distance of key attractions in Athens important?

Staying within walking distance of key attractions like the Acropolis and other archaeological sites saves time and money, as you won't need to take taxis or the metro.

How far is Psyri from the Acropolis, and why is it a great place to stay?

Psyri is about 20 minutes on foot from the Acropolis. It is a great place to stay because it offers affordable hotels with Acropolis views, vibrant nightlife, and pedestrian-friendly streets.

What are the cons of staying in Psyri?

The cons of staying in Psyri include the occasional loud nightlife, particularly on weekends, and the fact that it is 20 minutes away from the Acropolis on foot.

What is the significance of Monastiraki in Athens?

Monastiraki is known for its flea markets, street markets, and rooftop bars with Acropolis views. It is also a great place for souvenir shopping and is located near many archaeological sites.

What are the downsides of staying in Monastiraki?

Monastiraki has a higher risk of pickpockets, especially in the main square, and you may also encounter homeless people at night. It can be less peaceful compared to other neighborhoods.

What makes the city center of Athens unique for visitors?

The city center is famous for its street food, with places like 'Kostas' offering the best souvlaki. However, it is more expensive and lacks hotels with Acropolis views.

What are the advantages and disadvantages of staying in Syntagma?

Syntagma is ideal for shopping, with Ermou Street being the main shopping hub. It also has upscale hotels. However, it is more expensive and lacks the charm of other neighborhoods, with large boulevards and traffic.

What are the main features of Plaka as a neighborhood?

Plaka is a charming, historic neighborhood at the foot of the Acropolis. It has many iconic cafes and restaurants but can be crowded and more expensive, with less spectacular Acropolis views compared to other areas.

What makes Makrygianni a great place to stay?

Makrygianni offers the best Acropolis views from its hotels and is very close to both the Acropolis and the Acropolis Museum. It is also near Philopappou Hill, ideal for peaceful walks.