The Foundry Suites, Athens

Pros

• The rooftop offers a view of the Acropolis and a lush, verdant garden with olive trees, rosemary, lavender, and other greenery.
• Each room is different and offers abundant space, a full kitchen, and a record player and Marshall speaker for musically inclined travelers.
• Kids under 10 aren't allowed, so the hotel has a calm, quiet atmosphere.

Cons

• The Foundry is located opposite a very popular bar and restaurant. Consider checking into a room on the other side of the building if you're sensitive to noise.
• Rooms at the Foundry don't have TVs, which might be a disadvantage for some. 
• Kids under 10 aren't allowed, so the hotel isn't family-friendly. 

Authenticity

As its name indicates, the Foundry is located in a former type foundry, a place once used to design or distribute typefaces. The history is clear as you walk in and find a wall lined with beautiful vintage typewriters. The building was also a theater, which is appropriate considering Greece is the birthplace of drama. The local heritage continues as you notice that the solid floor by the reception gives way to plexiglass—underneath are ancient Greek ruins that have been converted into a wine cellar.

Location

The Foundry is in the middle of Psyri, a lively neighborhood popular with tourists and locals. For those who want to venture out of the neighborhood, the Acropolis is a 20-minute walk, while Monastiraki Square and its metro, as well as Hadrian's Library, are both just under 10 minutes away. Travelers looking to take the subway elsewhere can get the Green Line at the Thiseio stop, which is a five-minute walk from the hotel.

Rooms & Bathrooms

The 12 suites of The Foundry are all different, so guests book based on the room itself rather than a room "type." The rooms are divided according to size and floor, but they all are quite spacious and open. Those looking for some outdoor space can check out rooms on the ground floor, which feature peaceful private gardens, or room L2, which has a large terrace and massive space at 645 square feet (60 square meters). L2 also includes a loft bed and sunken bathtub. The rooms are all geared toward comfort as they have high-quality COCO-MAT mattresses and offer pillow menus. All of the rooms have full kitchens with basics included, like olive oil, spices, and coffee. Each room also comes with a Marshall speaker and a small record player for travelers who want to relax with music, but it's worth noting that the rooms don't include TVs.

Amenities

The rooftop is like a Greek Eden overlooking the Acropolis: guests can sit for hours and be warmed by the sun and scents of various herbs and plants. The rooftop is a highlight, especially once you realize that everything is directly planted into the roof rather than in planters or pots. The hotel is inclusive and open to LGBTQ+ travelers and those in different communities who want to feel welcome and at home in Athens. 

Family-Friendliness

Children ages 10 and up are welcome at the hotel, and larger suites are ideal for traveling families. Guests up to age 17 are charged a reduced rate.

Other Highlights

Breakfast is served daily on the rooftop when weather permits. Meals come in a picnic basket, and guests can also request delivery to their rooms. The rooftop (open in warmer months) also has a full bar and a pizza oven, so guests can enjoy freshly baked pizza and craft cocktails while taking in the view.