Athens hotels

For a city with one of the world's most famous landmarks - yes, the Parthenon - Athens is surprisingly low on world-class hotels, though the accommodation scene improved dramatically in the run-up to the Athens 2004 Olympics, when many new hotels opened and old ones were spruced up. More recently, a clutch of reasonably priced hotels has cropped up around the centre, which offer good value and a chance to explore under-the-radar (if slightly grubby) neighbourhoods like Keramikos, Metaxourgio, and Victoria. The city's top hotels (favoured by business travellers) are all located around Syntagma Square, on Syngrou Avenue or along the coastline (great for beach breaks, but a long haul from the major sights). Tourists tend to opt for hotels in Thission, Koukaki or Plaka, all within striking distance of the Acropolis. Even if the decor can be kitsch, the views are priceless (and, inevitably, come with a price premium).

Things to consider before booking:

• Five-star ratings in Greece (based on size and facilities rather than services) do not necessarily match up to international standards.
• Prices shoot up in July and August, peak holiday season in Greece.
• Around August 15 most of the city shuts down - although hotels are operational, you'll struggle to find restaurants, shops, and sights that are open.
• The area around Omonia Square has become increasingly crime-infested. Take extra care if staying here. 

Athens is not just the city where I grew up - it's the place where I launched my career as a travel writer. For more than 20 years, I've been checking into hotels and checking out restaurants, shops, bars and sights in Athens for leading travel publications and guide books. Whether it's the latest design hotel on Conde Nast Traveller's Hot List, or a budget guesthouse with bags of charm, I know the Athens hotel scene inside out. 

If you would like to suggest a hotel to the community that I haven't recommended, then click here.