10 Great Spots to Sleep, Drink & Eat In Athens
- by XpatAthens
- Tuesday, 17 February 2015
As Greece gears up for a bumper tourist season, with over 21 million visitors expected this year, Athens is surfacing from austerity. Its cultural and night-life scene is blossoming as locals start up creative cooperatives or become city guides.
1. City Circus
Two friends ditched corporate careers to set up this hip hostel in Psirri, a central neighbourhood of lively meze joints and gift shops. With mid-century antiques, frescoed ceilings, and graffiti art, it's way cooler and cheaper than the average boutique hotel. Nine rooms in an annex open this summer, along with a bar/restaurant that will screen films and serve cheap cocktails. The roof terrace has dazzling Parthenon views.
• +30 213 0237 244, citycircus.gr, dorm beds from €15 a night
2. Alice Inn
Decent lodgings are surprisingly scarce in Plaka, the touristy old town. This stylish "three-and-a-half-room" guesthouse is the exception. Greek-Irish architect John Consolas has converted a crummy hostel into a cosy, art-filled bolthole. Consolas, who lives on site, is a laid-back host who makes guests (everyone from top DJs to IMF inspectors) feel like old friends.
• +30 210 323 7139, aliceinnathens.com, doubles from €50
3. Black Duck Garden
Modern Athens' first public park was the gardens at the City of Athens Museum, with palm trees and fountains. One palm tree survives in the secret garden behind the museum, which now hosts a sweet, summer-only bistro. An oasis of shady calm, it's a relaxing spot for brunch or coffee.
• +30 210 3252396, blackduckgarden.gr
To read more, please visit theguardian.com