Verified Facts
When deciding where to stay in Greece, consider the country's diverse regions and neighborhoods, each offering a unique experience for different types of travelers, from the historic areas of Athens to the picturesque islands.
Best Areas to Stay
For each of the top areas/neighborhoods in Greece, there's a distinct character and appeal:
Monastiraki (Athens)
Best For: Backpackers, shoppers
Vibe: Monastiraki is a bustling neighborhood filled with flea markets, street food, and a lively atmosphere, making it perfect for young travelers and shoppers. The area is also rich in history, with ancient ruins and museums nearby.
Price Range: $30-60/night
Pros: Affordable accommodation options, proximity to historical sites, vibrant nightlife
Cons: Can be overcrowded, noisy
Plaka (Athens)
Best For: Luxury, history buffs
Vibe: Plaka is Athens' oldest neighborhood, offering a more upscale and historic experience with its cobblestone streets, neoclassical architecture, and high-end restaurants. It's a tranquil oasis in the heart of the city.
Price Range: $80-150/night
Pros: Scenic views of the Acropolis, luxurious amenities, traditional tavernas
Cons: Steep prices, limited budget options
Mykonos Town (Mykonos Island)
Best For: Luxury, partygoers
Vibe: Mykonos Town is known for its vibrant nightlife, beautiful beaches, and whitewashed houses, attracting a diverse crowd of luxury seekers and party enthusiasts. The town's narrow streets are filled with high-end boutiques and restaurants.
Price Range: $100-250/night
Pros: Vibrant nightlife, stunning beaches, upscale amenities
Cons: Expensive, overcrowded during peak season
Fira (Santorini Island)
Best For: Couples, honeymooners
Vibe: Fira, the capital of Santorini, offers breathtaking views of the caldera, romantic sunsets, and a picturesque landscape of whitewashed houses and blue-domed churches. It's an ideal destination for couples and honeymooners.
Price Range: $120-300/night
Pros: Scenic views, romantic atmosphere, luxurious amenities
Cons: Steep prices, crowded during peak season
Chania (Crete Island)
Best For: Families, history buffs
Vibe: Chania is a historic town on the northwest coast of Crete, offering a mix of Venetian and Ottoman architecture, beautiful beaches, and a lively old town with plenty of restaurants and shops. It's a great destination for families and history enthusiasts.
Price Range: $40-100/night
Pros: Rich history, beautiful beaches, family-friendly atmosphere
Cons: Limited luxury options, can be crowded
Piraeus (Piraeus)
Best For: Business, transit
Vibe: Piraeus is a major port city and a hub for business and transportation, offering a range of accommodation options, from budget-friendly hotels to luxury suites. It's a convenient base for travelers with early ferry departures or business meetings.
Price Range: $50-150/night
Pros: Convenient for transportation, business facilities, affordable options
Cons: Limited tourist attractions, industrial atmosphere
Kolonaki (Athens)
Best For: Business, luxury
Vibe: Kolonaki is an upscale neighborhood in Athens, known for its high-end boutiques, restaurants, and cafes. It's a great base for business travelers and those seeking a luxurious experience in the city.
Price Range: $80-200/night
Pros: Luxurious amenities, business facilities, upscale shopping
Cons: Expensive, limited budget options
Accommodation Types
| Type | Price Range (USD/night) | Best For | Notes |
|---|---|---|---|
| Hostels | $15-30 | Budget/Social | Shared rooms, communal kitchens, and social areas |
| Guesthouses | $30-60 | Mid-range/Local | Family-run, traditional Greek hospitality, often with home-cooked meals |
| Hotels | $60-150 | Comfort/Business | Range of amenities, from budget-friendly to luxury, often with business facilities |
| Boutique Hotels | $100-250 | Experience | Unique, stylish, and often historic properties with personalized service |
| Resorts | $150-300 | Relaxation | Luxury amenities, spa facilities, and stunning views, often in beachfront locations |
| Apartments/Airbnb | $40-100 | Long stays/Families | Self-catering, flexible, and often more affordable for longer stays or groups |
Booking Tips
- Book in advance, especially during peak season (June to September), to secure the best rates and availability.
- Use online booking platforms like Booking.com, Expedia, or Airbnb to compare prices and find deals.
- Consider visiting during the shoulder season (April to May or September to October) for lower prices and fewer crowds.
- Negotiate prices directly with hotel owners or managers, especially for longer stays or off-season bookings.
- Look for package deals that include accommodation, transportation, and activities for a more convenient and cost-effective experience.
- Read reviews and check the cancellation policies before booking to ensure flexibility and security.
- Be aware of any additional fees, such as tourist taxes or cleaning charges, when booking your accommodation.
Safety & Location Tips
- Research your destination and accommodation thoroughly to ensure it's in a safe and convenient location.
- Avoid areas with high crime rates, such as certain neighborhoods in Athens or Piraeus.
- Be mindful of your surroundings, especially in crowded areas or at night, and keep an eye on your belongings.
- Choose accommodation with good reviews and a reputation for safety and security.
- Consider staying in well-lit and populated areas, especially if you're traveling alone or at night.
- Use licensed taxis or public transportation, and avoid hitchhiking or accepting rides from strangers.