Where to Stay in Athens Before Your Cruise
Since you should never arrive at your cruise port city on the day your cruise starts, where should you stay in Athens before your cruise this summer? With popular cruise lines like Celebrity, Disney Cruise Line, Royal Caribbean, Norwegian, Azamara, Virgin Voyages, and Holland America Line departing from Piraeus, your adventure through Greece, Turkey, Italy, and Spain can kick off your vacation right with the perfect short stay at one of these 12 hotels in Athens.
Before we dive in, we want to reiterate the pro tip reminder that you should never fly into Athens on the day your cruise is scheduled to leave. This ultimate rookie mistake can end up costing you your entire cruise! You can’t board if your plane is delayed, there is a transportation strike, or there are major unexpected travel issues! Though we’d all love to think leisurely cruises would be laid back with timing and delayed, unfortunately, cruise lines have a strict schedule to adhere to and they will not wait for you — on the day of departure or on port call days. For any cruise, we highly recommend flying in at least one or two nights before your cruise departure date to ensure you’re on location, ready to board your epic ship for an incredible week ahead.
Our Type of Hotel Picks:
Highly rated three, four, and five star properties
Comfy bed(s)
Strong AC & heating
Good Wi-Fi
Within walking distance from either a train stop and/or a few must-see places
$100-$500 a night (depending on trip budget and vibe)
We don’t list prices because they change dramatically in and out of season and during the week versus weekend nights. Everyone has their own budget range, but we try our best to stick between the $100-$500 a night range, personally preferring to focus on options that are closer to our ideal range of $150-300 per night.
Quick Tips about Navigating Athens Pre-Cruise:
From the airport to the city center: Athens International Airport (ATH) is approximately 20km east of central Athens. A taxi ride to the city center from the Athens International Airport takes around 30-40 minutes, depending on traffic, and the Metro Line 3 connects the airport to Syntagma Square in about 40 minutes. Many hotel recommendations on this list aren't far from that station!
From the city center to Piraeus: The distance from Athens city center to Piraeus cruise port is about 12km. There are two easy options to get to the Piraeus cruise port from Athens city center. You can access the cruise point by the metro (Green Line 1) from Monastiraki station to Piraeus, which takes around 20-25 minutes, or you can take a taxi or a ride share from the city center which takes about 20 minutes. Common ride share options in Athens include Uber and Lyft.
While it might seem like staying closer to the cruise port is the most intuitive route, there isn't much to do, see, or eat near the Piraeus cruise port. Instead, your time and money is better off spent staying in central Athens.
Now that you’re on board (pun intended) and ready for a fun night or two in Athens before your cruise, here is the meticulously curated list of where to stay in Athens before a cruise, with a range of cozy 3-star boutique hotels to the luxurious 5-star havens in and around Athens' city center, all ensuring your pre-cruise days are as enchanting as the voyage ahead.
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Top-Rated Value Hotels in Athens
Our list of the best budget hotels in Athens are the most modestly priced within the $150-$250 range during peak season. These tend to be a bit further away from main points of interest, but we have chosen options that are near convenient transport to take you to the highlights of the city. As prices vary depending on the day, click the “check price” button for the most up to date pricing on Booking.com (our most trusted hotel booking source for accommodations in Europe and Asia!)
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AD Athens Luxury Rooms & Suites
If you're seeking a boutique experience, AD Athens is the place. Right in the heart of Plaka, this hotel offers a personalized stay with modern amenities in a picturesque setting. The Acropolis views from some of the rooms are simply unmatched, making every morning a magical one.
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Plaka Hotel
Nestled in the heart of Plaka, this hotel is a dream come true for travelers looking to soak up Athens' historical essence. Guests rave about the hotel's proximity to the Acropolis, making it an ideal spot for those wanting to explore ancient ruins before their cruise. The welcoming staff and authentic free Greek breakfast are just cherries on top of a memorable stay.
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The Athenian Callirhoe
A blend of modern luxury and classic elegance, The Athenian Callirhoe is a favorite among cruisers for its strategic location. A short stroll away from the Acropolis and the buzzing streets of Koukaki, it offers a serene escape with stunning views. Its rooftop restaurant, serving exquisite Mediterranean cuisine, seals the deal for many.
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Athens Tiare
Overlooking Omonia Square, the Athens Tiare Hotel stands as a testament to modern elegance. Each room is a haven of style and comfort, making it a perfect retreat after a day of exploration. What's more, the hotel's central location means you're never too far from Athens' vibrant street life and fascinating attractions.
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Amalia Hotel Athens
Overlooking the National Gardens, the Amalia Hotel Athens is a serene escape in the city's heart. It’s known for its impeccable service and beautiful, comfortable rooms. Starting your day with breakfast here, looking out over the lush greenery, is truly special. Plus, the proximity to major attractions makes it a popular choice for travelers ready to explore.
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Brown Acropol
For those who love retro vibes blended with modern luxury, Brown Acropol is your go-to. Located in the Omonia district, this hotel is a nod to the swinging '60s but with all the contemporary comforts. The vibrant atmosphere, combined with its stylish rooms and rooftop bar, makes it a fantastic place to kickstart your cruise adventure.
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Chic Sweet Spot Stays in Athens
Our list of the best mid-range averaged priced hotels in Athens are within the $200-$300 range during peak season. These tend to be only a few blocks from main points of interest and near convenient transportation. As prices vary depending on the day, click the “check price” button for the most up to date pricing on Booking.com (our most trusted hotel booking source for accommodations in Paris!)
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Emporikon Athens Hotel
Having recently undergone a gorgeous renovation, the Emporikon combines historical elegance with modern luxury. Its location in Monastiraki means you're immersed in the heart of Athens' vibrant life, surrounded by markets, cafes, and sights. The rooms offer a peaceful retreat with stylish decor and comfortable amenities, making it a top pick.
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InnAthens
A serene hideaway in the bustling heart of Athens, InnAthens is a gem that guests often say they're lucky to find. Its courtyard is an idyllic spot for breakfast or a mid-afternoon escape. Beyond the tranquility, it’s the warmth and friendliness of the staff that truly makes guests feel welcomed and valued.
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Hera Hotel
Tucked away in the charming Makrigianni district, the Hera Hotel offers an intimate atmosphere that feels like a home away from home. Guests adore the rooftop garden where you can dine under the shadow of the Acropolis, making each meal unforgettable. The hotel’s proximity to the Acropolis Museum adds an extra layer of allure for history buffs.
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Premier Boutique Stays in Athens
Our list of the best affordable luxury boutique hotel stays in Athens are within the $300-$500 range during peak season. These tend to be around the corner from main points of interest and near convenient transportation. As prices vary depending on the day, click the “check price” button for the most up to date pricing on Booking.com (our most trusted hotel booking source for accommodations in Paris!)
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Perianth Hotel
The Perianth Hotel, located in the artistic heart of Plaka, is where modernity meets ancient history. This hotel is all about minimalist luxury with Zen vibes that are instantly soothing. It’s the perfect place for those who appreciate art and design, and its central location means you’re just a walk away from some of Athens' most iconic sights.
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Grand Hyatt Athens
The Grand Hyatt Athens is a sanctuary of modern luxury mingled with Greek hospitality. Its rooftop pool is an oasis offering stunning views over the city and towards the sea, making it a perfect place to unwind before your cruise. The hotel's location in Metaxourgeio puts you in a vibrant area, where art galleries and quaint cafes are just waiting to be discovered. The rooms? They're spacious, stylish, and oh-so-comfortable, ensuring a restful night's sleep after a day of adventures.
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Coco-Mat Athens BC
Located in Koukaki, this eco-friendly hotel not only offers luxurious comfort but also prides itself on sustainable living. The rooftop pool provides a stunning view of Athens, making it a perfect spot to sip a cocktail and soak in the city vibes before setting sail.
What to Expect of the European Hotel Experience
The hotels often reflect the history of the city. If this is your first time staying in Europe, there are a few "quirks" that are perfectly normal here but might be a surprise if you aren’t European or haven’t Europe yet visited.
In the Room
The "European King" & Twin Bed Issue: Don't be surprised if your king-size bed is actually two twin mattresses pushed together with individual duvets. It’s the standard way many hotels handle large beds, and it actually makes for a great night’s sleep since you aren’t fighting your partner for the covers!
This also applies to if you book a twin room. In many cases, the twin beds will be either touching each other or very close to being pushed together, but have separate bedding. This could be awkward if you’re not super close with your roommate, so take precaution to check the room photos carefully before agreeing to share a room with someone!
Climate Control: In the winter, many hotels operate on a central heating system. This means you might not have an individual thermostat in your room, and it can get toasty. If you’re a hot sleeper, we highly recommend packing a small travel fan to keep the air moving. This small but mighty travel fan is our go-to!
Amenities: Coffee makers or kettles in the room aren't always a guarantee, especially in smaller boutique spots. Likewise, keep an eye out for a bidet in the bathroom—it’s a staple in many European countries and great once you get used to it!
Shower Curtains (or the lack thereof): Many European showers use a half-glass pane rather than a curtain. It looks sleek, but it’s an art form to keep the water from splashing onto the bathroom floor!
Room Size: Many rooms are very, very compact. Typically, the older the building is, the smaller the rooms will be.
Navigating the Building
Elevators (or lack thereof): "Historic" often means "built before elevators existed." Many hotels have very small lifts that only fit one, maybe two people with luggage, and some don't go to every floor. Be prepared for the possibility of carrying your bags up a few flights of stairs.
Star Ratings: In Europe, the star rating is usually based on the amenities provided (like having a 24-hour reception or an elevator) rather than how "luxury" the hotel feels. A 2 or 3-star hotel can be incredibly charming and clean, just with fewer amenities.
The "First Floor" Confusion: Remember that in Europe, the "1st Floor" is usually one level above the ground floor (which is often labeled '0' or 'G' in the elevator).
Logistics & Food
Breakfast: Unless it explicitly says "Breakfast Included," expect to pay a (relatively large) separate fee. European breakfast spreads are often tasty deli meats, cheeses, incredible pastries, and yogurt, but they rarely mirror the hot "big breakfast" style you might find back home.
Luggage Storage: Almost every hotel will happily stash your bags in a locked room if you arrive before check-in or want to explore the markets for a few hours after you’ve checked out.
The Key Card: In many rooms, you’ll need to slot your room key into a holder by the door to turn on the lights and power. The intention is to save energy while you’re out enjoying the markets. Want to keep the power going while you’re gone? Pop an old hotel key or expired bank card in place of your room key. (We don’t recommend this all the time, just in case of drastic temps in your room, needing to keep items charging, etc.)