The Top 5 Hotels near El. Venizelos Airport

Athens International Airport (El. Venizelos) is located approximately 33km (20.5 miles) from central Athens. If you’re planning a short layover or simply prefer to stay close to the airport, here are the five best nearby hotel options offering comfort, convenience, and a range of amenities.

1. Sofitel Athens Airport

Sofitel Athens Airport lies directly opposite the terminal — just 50 meters from the main doors. This 5-star hotel is the most convenient and luxurious option near the airport, featuring 345 elegant rooms, a spa and fitness center, and an indoor pool. Guests can enjoy fine dining at two restaurants, including the rooftop Karavi Restaurant with panoramic runway views, and unwind in one of the two bars. Located on the Attiki Odos highway, it also provides quick access to the city.

Tip: The hotel is pet-friendly — perfect for travelers with small companions.

2. Holiday Inn Athens – Attica Avenue

Holiday Inn Athens Airport is a 5-star hotel located about 10km from ATH Airport. It’s a slightly more affordable alternative to the Sofitel, offering modern rooms, the Ruby Restaurant, and the Golden Bar. Additional facilities include a gym, indoor pool, and business center, making it an excellent choice for business travelers.

Tip: The hotel provides a free shuttle service to and from Athens Airport.

3. Seasabelle Hotel, Artemida

The Seasabelle Hotel is located just a 15-minute drive from the airport, in the coastal area of Artemida. Overlooking the sea, it’s ideal for travelers seeking both proximity and relaxation. This mid-range hotel features stylish rooms, a café bar, an Italian restaurant, and a charming roof garden with breathtaking sea views.

4. Avra Hotel, Rafina

Avra Hotel sits in the seaside town of Rafina, roughly a 20-minute drive from the airport. Offering elegant rooms at moderate prices, it’s perfect for guests combining business and leisure. The hotel provides a restaurant, a comfortable lounge bar, and free shuttle transfers to and from Athens Airport. Its proximity to the port of Rafina also makes it convenient for travelers continuing to the Greek islands.

5. Peri’s Hotel, Artemida

Peri’s Hotel is a cozy 2-star accommodation offering 12 clean, comfortable rooms with essential amenities. It’s a great value-for-money choice, featuring friendly service and free 10-minute shuttle transfers to the airport. Perfect for budget-conscious travelers looking for simplicity and convenience.

The Top 5 Hotels in Athens City Center

If your layover allows more time, staying in downtown Athens gives you a chance to experience the city’s vibrant culture and iconic landmarks. Here are the five top-rated accommodations in the heart of the Greek capital.

1. Grande Bretagne – The Luxurious Choice

Located on Syntagma Square, Grande Bretagne is Athens’ most prestigious hotel. Set in a 19th-century neoclassical building, it offers world-class luxury — from its ornate interiors and spa facilities to its indoor and outdoor pools. Guests can relax in the Alexander Bar, Cigar Lounge, Wine Gallery, or GB Roof Garden restaurant, which provides spectacular views of the Acropolis.

Tip: Grande Bretagne is pricey, but if you can afford it, it’s absolutely worth the experience.

2. Coco-Mat Athens BC – The Acropolis Observer

Coco-Mat Athens BC blends modern luxury with Greek history. Known for its signature Coco-Mat mattresses that guarantee excellent sleep, the hotel also features an indoor pool, gym, and cocktail bar. The highlight is its rooftop pool and lounge offering breathtaking views of the Acropolis and Parthenon.

3. Athens Was – The Boutique Hotel

Athens Was is a stylish 5-star boutique hotel located on the pedestrian street of Dionysiou Areopagitou, just steps from the Acropolis. Its interior combines classical Greek touches with modern design. The hotel includes a small fitness area, a cozy brasserie, and the Sense rooftop restaurant with stunning Acropolis views.

Tip: Although family-friendly, the hotel has limited child-specific amenities.

4. Ergon House – The Foodie Hotel

Ergon House offers a unique stay that combines gastronomy and hospitality. It houses an indoor food market (“agora”) where guests can buy fresh Greek products, cook in a communal kitchen, or join cooking lessons. Above the market, 38 industrial-style rooms provide comfortable stays. A small gym and the RETIRÉ rooftop bar with Acropolis views complete the experience.

5. Athens Style – The Hostel Option

Athens Style is a lively and affordable hostel located in the vibrant neighborhood of Psirri. With a bohemian atmosphere, it features a rooftop bar, restaurant, shared kitchen, and lounge with a pool table and movie area. Clean rooms, friendly staff, and great social vibes make it ideal for backpackers and young travelers.