Welcome to ForTravelLovers, your travel guide to discover the best destinations in the world. On this occasion, we enter the fascinating city of Athens, the cradle of Western civilization. If you are planning a trip to this wonderful city in 2023, you are in the right place. Below, we present the best neighborhoods and hotels to stay in, as well as areas to avoid and some specific accommodation recommendations.
The best neighborhoods to stay in Athens
Athens has a wide variety of neighborhoods, each with its own charm and unique characteristics. Here are some of the best neighborhoods to stay during your visit:
1. Plate
Plaka is the oldest neighborhood in Athens and is located in the heart of the city. With its cobblestone streets, neoclassical houses and traditional taverns, Plaka will transport you to the time of ancient Greece. Plus, you'll be just steps away from major landmarks such as the Acropolis and the Ancient Agora.
2. Monastiraki
Located at the foot of the Acropolis, Monastiraki is known for its lively flea market and antique shops. Here you will find a wide variety of boutique hotels, as well as restaurants and bars with stunning views of the Acropolis.
3. Psiri
Psiri is the trendy neighborhood of Athens, known for its narrow streets full of trendy bars, art galleries and designer shops. If you are looking for a more contemporary experience, Psiri is the perfect place to stay.
The best hotels in Athens
Athens has a wide range of hotels for all tastes and budgets. Here are some of the best hotels in the city:
1. Hotel Great Britain
Located in Syntagma Square, the Hotel Grande Bretagne is one of the most luxurious hotels in Athens. With its elegant décor and impeccable service, this hotel is perfect for those seeking a luxurious experience during their stay in the city.
2. Electra Palace Athens
Located in the Plaka neighborhood, Electra Palace Athens offers elegant rooms with panoramic views of the Acropolis. It also has a rooftop pool and a restaurant with stunning views.
3. New Hotel
Located in the Psiri neighborhood, the New Hotel combines modern design with elements of Greek culture. Its rooms are uniquely decorated and it has a rooftop bar with panoramic views of the city.
The best areas for sightseeing in Athens in 2023
Athens is a city full of history and culture, with a large number of places of interest to visit. Below, we present some of the best areas for sightseeing during your visit:
1. Acropolis
The Acropolis is the symbol of Athens and one of the most visited places in the city. Here you will find the Parthenon, the Erechtheion and the Temple of Athena Nike, among other impressive monuments.
2. Ancient Agora
The Ancient Agora was the center of political and commercial life in ancient Athens. Here you can explore the ruins of ancient buildings, such as the Roman Agora, the Stoa of Attalus and the Temple of Hephaestus.
3. Acropolis Museum
If you are a lover of history and archeology, you cannot miss visiting the Acropolis Museum. Here you will find an impressive collection of ancient artifacts, including sculptures, ceramics and jewelry.
Areas to avoid in Athens
Although Athens is a safe city in general, like any big city, there are some areas that are best avoided, especially at night. Below, we present some of the areas that you should take into account:
1. Omonia
Omonia is an area that used to be the center of nightlife in Athens, but in recent years has seen an increase in crime. It is advisable to avoid this area, especially at night.
2. Exarchia
Exarchia is known for being a bohemian and alternative neighborhood, but it has also been the scene of riots and protests in the past. It is best to avoid this area if you are looking for a quiet and safe environment.
Accommodation recommendations in Athens
If you're looking for specific accommodation recommendations in Athens, here are some options that might interest you:
1. AthensWas Hotel
Located near the Acropolis, AthensWas Hotel offers elegant rooms with panoramic city views. It also has a rooftop restaurant and bar with stunning views.
2. Coco-Mat Hotel Athens
Located in the Kolonaki neighborhood, Coco-Mat Hotel Athens offers modern and comfortable rooms. It also has a spa and a restaurant serving Greek and international cuisine.
FAQs
1. What is the best time to visit Athens?
The best time to visit Athens is during spring (April-June) and autumn (September-October), when temperatures are mild and there are fewer tourists. However, keep in mind that during the summer (July-August) temperatures can be very high.
2. Is it safe to travel to Athens in 2023?
Yes, Athens is generally a safe city for tourists. However, as in any tourist destination, it is important to take basic precautions, such as not carrying valuables on display and being aware of your belongings in crowded places.
Conclusion
In short, Athens is a city full of history, culture and beauty. With its fascinating neighborhoods, impressive hotels and a wide range of tourism options, there is no doubt that Athens is a destination that you cannot miss in 2023. We hope that this guide has been useful for you in planning your trip. Enjoy your stay in the cradle of Western civilization!
Until next time,
The ForTravelLovers team
