Reviewed by
Ben Reed
What was Athens? A beautiful ancient city with 5-star sights like the Acropolis? A European metropolis of '60s style and ‘Never on Sunday’ grooves? Both of these, and these days you can add hipster street culture, a world-class museum, and more besides. AthensWas is a hotel (also 5-star) that has fused all these aspects of the birthplace of democracy - with designer rooms tipping it gently into the retro-modernist mode.
Floors are wild, from jagged optical illusions to psychedelic twirls, offset by walnut panelling and cool marble counter-tops. Beds are piled high with crisp linen, sitting areas feature classic chairs and, unusually for an inner-city hotel, every room has a private balcony. Some are petite and peaceful, with hanging jardinières curtaining an inner courtyard; others are brash terraces with a perfect view of the Parthenon. Can’t decide whether you’re old-skool or new? Head to the rooftop restaurant for the jaw-dropping vista of the Acropolis, listen to some Melina Mercouri and enjoy a Parthenon’s Glow cocktail over dinner. Sometimes it’s nice to be a bit of both.
Floors are wild, from jagged optical illusions to psychedelic twirls, offset by walnut panelling and cool marble counter-tops. Beds are piled high with crisp linen, sitting areas feature classic chairs and, unusually for an inner-city hotel, every room has a private balcony. Some are petite and peaceful, with hanging jardinières curtaining an inner courtyard; others are brash terraces with a perfect view of the Parthenon. Can’t decide whether you’re old-skool or new? Head to the rooftop restaurant for the jaw-dropping vista of the Acropolis, listen to some Melina Mercouri and enjoy a Parthenon’s Glow cocktail over dinner. Sometimes it’s nice to be a bit of both.
Highs
- A great location, just minutes from the Acropolis and Parthenon, amid charming pedestrianised streets
- A retro modernist style inspired by Athens' swinging '60s period
- All rooms have private outdoor space
- Two restaurants with delicious Western and Greek dishes; one has a stunning rooftop dining terrace with Acropolis views
- Friendly knowledgeable staff - you'll get insider knowledge on where to go for a true Athenian experience, without the crowds
Lows
- SENSE Fine Dining is expensive and only open for dinner, despite being the only on-site restaurant with Acropolis views (book ahead to avoid disappointment)
- Athens’ traffic noise is ceaseless, but this is on a pedestrianised street so the rumble and rasp is more distant
- No swimming pool but rooms have air-con for cooling off
- A bit more expensive than other boutique hotels in the city, but utterly worth it
Best time to go
Athens is a year-round destination but it can get unbearably hot in the summer months. Try visiting over Greek Orthodox Easter in the spring when there are fewer crowds but the museums and sights are still open.
Our top tips
Head upwards to rooftop SENSE Fine Dining restaurant for an evening meal with a magnificent view of the Acropolis. It's popular, so be sure to book ahead and request an outdoor table for the best views.