Athens Gate Hotel, Athens

Pros

• Rooms are spacious and contemporary, and most offer private, furnished balconies with views over the Temple of Olympian Zeus and Arch of Hadrian. 
• The central location is perfect for those who want to stay close to Athens' most famous sites, with the Acropolis, the Temple of Olympian Zeus, and Plaka all just a few minutes walk away.
• The rooftop restaurant serves elevated Mediterranean fare with fantastic panoramic vistas over the city, spanning from the Acropolis to Mount Hymmetus to the sea.

Cons

• Sygrou is one of the busiest streets in Athens, and street noise can be an issue, even in upper-story rooms.
• You won't find a gym or spa at this smaller, city-center hotel.

Authenticity

Athens Gate's eight-story terraced block dates back to the 1970s, and its spectacular location overlooking the Temple of Olympian Zeus has made the hotel a popular spot for over 40 years. Today, its renovated interiors feel firmly contemporary, and the midcentury concrete-and-glass facade is now adorned with a sinuous wire sculpture by Greek artist Nikos Alexio. You won't find much in the way of character or history among the interiors, but the long-serving staff continue the tradition of family-run hospitality with thoughtful extra touches (like small bags of dried lavender left on each pillow).

Location

The hotel sits on Sygrou Avenue, a major street that feeds directly into the heart of Athens and Syntagma Square. It's a busy but convenient location that puts you squarely between the city's most famous archaeological sites: the Temple of Olympian Zeus and Arch of Hadrian are right across the street, while you can reach the Acropolis Museum in 3 minutes on foot and the entrance of the south slopes of the Acropolis in 5. Syntagma Square is a 10-minute stroll north, and there are multiple metro stops within a few blocks of the hotel. Parking is available in an on-site garage (but be aware it tends to fill up quickly).

Rooms & Bathrooms

The 99 air-conditioned rooms feature simple, contemporary decor, incorporating blonde wood floors, neutral colors, and photographs of Greek antiquities and sites. Avoid the internal-facing Budget units and book a Superior or Executive room for floor-to-ceiling windows with blackout blinds, a private terrace, and panoramic views over the Temple of Olympian Zeus. The top-floor Suite adds more space, a Jacuzzi bath, and a large terrace with views to the Temple of Olympian Zeus, the Acropolis, and Mount Lycabettus. Bathrooms are modern and tiled, most with rain-style showers and local Greek toiletries.

Amenties

The eighth-floor Rooftop Restaurant and Bar offers some of the best panoramic views in the city from its glass-enclosed terrace. Expect light snacks during the day, and above-average Mediterranean fare (and an impressive selection of Greek wines) after dark. Breakfast is an American-style buffet with some classic Greek options; the breakfast box option is a handy perk for travelers heading out on early tours. There's also a small lobby bar, and folks who want to switch out their vacation books can grab another one from the library next door, which also features a fireplace and a few cozy couches for lounging.

Family-Friendliness

Children are welcome here, and the warm staff help make this a comfortable spot for families. Family or interconnecting rooms are available, and the restaurant has a children's menu and high chairs for younger guests.