AthensWas Design Hotel

It would be hard to find a better location than AthensWas: the hotel sits within the shadow of the Acropolis, so close to the iconic ruins that you feel as if you could almost touch them. With a commanding position amid the rather grand mansions of leafy Dionysiou Areopagitou, AthensWas is perfect for exploring the city’s historic centre.

Particular care has been taken on the hotel’s décor, which takes its inspiration from the classical modernism movement that gripped Athens from the 1950s to 70s. Local materials, such as elegant Greek marble and beautiful walnut wood, have been used to great effect in the sleek interiors, while furnishings are a treasure-trove of 20th-century design classics, from Le Corbusier LC3 armchairs to a Warren Platner coffee table.

Facilities are light, although there are two restaurants including one with a stunning rooftop terrace boasting panoramic views over the Acropolis, and with a location this good you’ll want to venture forth and drink in as much of the city as you can.

Begin your day with the continental breakfast buffet at Brasserie Moderne. Located on the light-filled ground floor of the hotel, the Brasserie serves informal lunches throughout the day.

In the evening, head upstairs to the Sense Restaurant, where modern Greek cuisine is presented with an experimental flair. On summer nights be sure to ask for a table on the balcony, where you’ll have a spectacular view of the floodlit Acropolis.

Rooms share the same classical modernist design as the rest of the hotel, with retro-style furnishings and an extensive use of marble and walnut, decorated with atmospheric black and white images of Ancient Greek statues and sites. All of the rooms have balconies, perfect for soaking up the sun and the views.

If you’re a light sleeper, it’s worth noting that the street-facing rooms can get a tad noisy, so instead opt for one of the rooms at the rear of the hotel.

The hotel’s rooftop terrace is the perfect place for a spot of sunbathing, especially with a long, cold drink from the rooftop bar. Pampering massages and beauty treatments can be arranged in the privacy of your room.

The hotel could not be better placed for those who want to explore Athens’ ancient history. The Acropolis Museum, one of the finest in the world, is just a short walk from the hotel and offers a fascinating insight into the history of this iconic monument. The entrance to the Acropolis itself is also within easy walking distance; aside from the ruins, the rock gives a beautiful view over Athens. To the north lies the old town of Plaka, filled with winding streets lined with boutiques and bars.

• Greek Evangelical Church - 1 min walk
• Theatre of Dionysus - 2 min walk
• Temple of Olympian Zeus - 3 min walk
• Acropolis Museum - 4 min walk
• Parthenon - 10 min walk