Athens, a city where ancient landmarks meet contemporary creativity, has become an increasingly attractive destination for design and architecture lovers. From luxury hotels overlooking the Acropolis to boutique hideaways in neoclassical townhouses and chic urban hotels in up-and-coming neighborhoods, Athens offers a wide range of thoughtfully designed accommodations. This curated guide highlights some of the best design hotels in Athens—spanning various styles and budgets—for culture-focused travelers seeking inspiring interiors, architectural character, and authentic Athenian experiences.

Monument Hotel Athens

Monument Hotel Athens blends 19th-century neoclassical architecture with contemporary luxury in the heart of Athens’ Psyrri district. Originally designed in 1881 by architect Ernst Ziller, the building has undergone restoration by local architecture studio MPlusM. This renovation preserves original features such as intricate ceiling frescoes, gypsum decorations, and carved marble balconies, while integrating modern furnishings from esteemed Scandinavian designers like Gubi and Woud to create an ambiance that is both historic and sophisticated.

The hotel offers nine individually designed rooms and suites, each reflecting a unique character. Accommodations range from the cozy 19-square-meter Glint room to the expansive 31-square-meter Nidus Suite, with a private rooftop terrace and Jacuzzi with panoramic views of the Acropolis. Guests can enjoy a complimentary Greek breakfast served in the dining area. The hotel also features a wellness center with a sauna and hammam, available for private sessions, providing a serene retreat after a day of exploration.

Situated on Kalamida Street, Monument Hotel places guests within walking distance of major attractions such as Monastiraki Square, the Acropolis, and the vibrant Central Market. The Psyrri neighborhood is renowned for its lively atmosphere, eclectic street art, and an array of local eateries and artisan shops, offering an authentic Athenian experience.

Shila Athens

Shila Athens is a boutique hotel located in a restored 1920s neoclassical townhouse on a quiet street in Kolonaki, one of Athens’ most upscale neighborhoods. Co-created by creative director Eftihia Stefanidi and entrepreneur Shai Antebi. Each of its six individually designed rooms features vintage furnishings, handcrafted details, and curated artworks, creating immersive spaces that blend historical charm with modern comfort.​

Guests at Shila can enjoy a daily breakfast basket with local delicacies served in their rooms, relax in the rooftop garden, or unwind in the library lounge. The hotel also offers concierge services and hosts cultural events, providing a personalized and enriching experience.​

Located in Kolonaki, Shila is within walking distance of Athens’ major attractions, including the Acropolis, Syntagma Square, and the National Garden. The neighborhood is renowned for its boutique shops, art galleries, and vibrant cafes, offering guests a blend of cultural heritage and contemporary Athenian lifestyle.​

Mona Athens

Mona Athens is a boutique hotel located in a restored 1950s textile factory in the heart of Psirri, one of Athens’ most vibrant cultural districts. Transformed by the creative collective House of Shila, the eight-story building retains original features like iron staircases, terrazzo floors, and metal-framed windows, complemented by custom-made furnishings, velvet upholstery, and curated artworks. The hotel’s 20 rooms, ranging from intimate studios to spacious lofts, feature amenities such as handmade natural mattresses, white Corian bathtubs, and artisanal minibars. Each room is equipped with modern conveniences including espresso machines, iPads with Netflix access, and Bluetooth speakers.​

Beyond its accommodations, Mona offers a range of unique spaces and experiences. The ground-floor Living Room serves as a café and concept space, hosting pop-up events and art exhibitions. The Underground Venue is used for private events, art openings, and live performances. The rooftop terrace, exclusive to guests and members, provides panoramic views of Athens, including the Acropolis, and features a bar, lounge area, and outdoor showers. Guests can also enjoy complimentary breakfast and access to a curated selection of art and design objects available for purchase.​

Situated in Psirri, Mona is surrounded by a dynamic mix of traditional workshops, contemporary art galleries, and lively eateries. The hotel is within walking distance of major attractions such as Monastiraki Square, the Acropolis, and the Ancient Agora.

Monsieur Didot

Monsieur Didot offers an intimate blend of neoclassical elegance and contemporary comfort in Athens’ Kolonaki district. Set within a restored 19th-century townhouse on Didotou Street—named after Ambroise Firmin-Didot—the hotel pays homage to the renowned French printer and type designer whose family played a key role in shaping Greece’s publishing history. The design by BaBatchas Design Studio, preserves original features like decorative moldings, marble mantels, and parquet flooring while incorporating natural materials and bespoke furnishings.

The hotel comprises six individually styled rooms and suites, each named after literary forms such as “The Tale” and “The Ode.” The rooms are adorned with bookcases and offer a warm, personal atmosphere. Guests can enjoy a breakfast prepared with fresh, local ingredients, served either in-room or on the rooftop terrace, which offers views across the city. Personalized experiences—including guided tours, cooking classes, and wellness treatments—are available upon request.

Situated on the border of Kolonaki and Exarchia, Monsieur Didot provides easy access to Athens’ cultural and historical landmarks. The area is known for its upscale boutiques, independent galleries, and lively cafés, offering guests an authentic Athenian experience within walking distance of major attractions such as the National Library, the Academy of Athens, and Lycabettus Hill.

Ergon House

Ergon House is housed in a restored neoclassical building in the Plaka district, the hotel was designed by Urban Soul Project to blend modern minimalism with traditional Greek elements. Interiors feature Cycladic-inspired whites, walnut wood accents, and natural brass details, creating a calming, elegant atmosphere above the vibrant marketplace below.

At the center of the hotel is a modern food hall, home to a butcher, fishmonger, bakery, deli, and a restaurant serving refined Greek cuisine. Vertical gardens and a soaring glass atrium turn the space into a lively social hub. Guests can also enjoy access to a gym, a communal kitchen, and a rooftop terrace with olive trees and sweeping views of the Acropolis.

Just steps from Syntagma Square and Monastiraki, Ergon House offers immediate access to Athens’ cultural landmarks, markets, and museums. Set within the Plaka—Athens’ oldest neighborhood, known for its neoclassical architecture, winding alleys, and lively tavernas—the hotel places guests at the heart of the city’s most atmospheric quarter. 

Ace Hotel & Swim Club Athens

Ace Hotel & Swim Club Athens is a design-forward property located in the seaside district of Glyfada, along the Athens Riviera. Housed in the former Fenix Hotel, the building was transformed by French architecture and interiors studio Ciguë, blending Brutalist forms with elements of Greek modernism and retro 1970s resort aesthetics. The design emphasizes natural materials, geometric volumes, and curated details, creating a relaxed yet sophisticated atmosphere that reflects the coastal setting. 

The hotel offers 120 rooms and suites, each featuring earthy color palettes, sculptural lighting, and balconies overlooking either the sea or cityscape. Decorated with custom furnishings and artwork—including pieces by Greek folk artist Alekos Fassianos—the interiors balance vintage charm with modern comfort. Guests have access to a large outdoor pool and a vibrant Swim Club area with cabanas, sunbeds, and a poolside bar. Dining options include the French-American bistro Sebastian, all-day café Good Chemistry, and two cocktail bars located in the lobby and by the pool.

Situated just a short walk from Glyfada’s beaches and a 20-minute drive from central Athens, Ace Hotel & Swim Club offers the perfect mix of urban accessibility and seaside relaxation. 

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For our comprehensive cultural guide to Athens, please refer to the designated link provided.