Athenaeum Smart Hotel

The hotel offers a memorable stay, largely due to its stunning rooftop views of the Acropolis, which guests consistently highlight as a signature feature. It is an excellent choice for sightseers eager to explore the city's historical landmarks, business travelers attending conferences nearby, and couples seeking a romantic backdrop for their visit. The hotel is also well-suited for solo travelers, who often report feeling safe and comfortable. Guests frequently commend the hotel's overall cleanliness, the comfort of its rooms, and the consistently friendly and helpful staff. While the location on a busy street can lead to some noise, many find the hotel to be a great value. To ensure a peaceful stay, it is advisable to request a room away from the main thoroughfare, and guests should be prepared for potentially small or slow elevators.

Facilities & Amenities
Guests frequently comment on the hotel's elevators, noting that they are often small and can be slow, with some instances of them being out of order or requiring a short flight of stairs to access the breakfast area, which can be an accessibility concern. Despite this, the hotel generally provides fast Wi-Fi with a strong signal throughout the property, allowing guests to stay connected. While there is no mention of a swimming pool, fitness center, or gym, the hotel does offer parking, though spaces can be limited, with some guests finding street parking nearby. The rooftop terrace, primarily used for breakfast, is highly praised for its views, with some guests wishing it were accessible for longer hours. In-room amenities typically include a hair dryer and coffee/tea making facilities, though complimentary water is not always provided.

Cleanliness & Room Comfort
The hotel consistently receives high praise for its cleanliness, with many guests describing rooms as spotless and well-maintained. Most guests find the rooms to be spacious and comfortable, featuring king-size beds with soft mattresses that ensure a restful night's sleep. However, some guests have noted that certain rooms can feel small. A recurring concern is the noise levels from the busy main street, which can be disruptive, especially at night, despite the presence of double-glazed windows. The bathrooms are generally clean and well-appointed, though a few reviews mention issues such as a persistent smell, mold in the shower, or a shower without a door. Additionally, some guests have reported dirty windows obstructing the view and curtains that do not effectively block out light.

Dining & Food Quality
The breakfast experience is a significant highlight for many guests, consistently described as rich, varied, and delicious, with a plentiful selection of both hot and cold options. Served in the rooftop restaurant, the meal is complemented by stunning views of the Acropolis, creating a memorable start to the day. Guests appreciate the fresh fruits, Greek yogurt, feta cheese, spinach pies, and pastries available. While the coffee machine provides a convenient option, some guests express a desire for barista-made coffee or improved espresso quality. A notable area for improvement, mentioned by several guests, is the limited availability of vegan and vegetarian options, with the breakfast spread being heavily focused on meat, eggs, and dairy, offering very few plant-based choices beyond basic items.

Location & Accessibility
The hotel's location is generally considered convenient, situated on a busy main street that offers easy access to various parts of the city. While it is not directly in the city center, many attractions like the Acropolis are within a 20-30 minute walk, or a short 5-10 minute bus ride, with a bus stop conveniently located right outside the hotel. The nearest metro station is typically a 10-15 minute walk away. The immediate surrounding area is described as mixed; some find it less attractive or ordinary, while others appreciate the presence of nearby cafes, bakeries, and corner stores. Parking is available, though spaces can be limited, sometimes requiring guests to find street parking in adjacent areas.

Staff & Service
The hotel staff consistently receives overwhelming praise for their friendliness, helpfulness, and professionalism. Guests frequently highlight their attentive service, noting their willingness to go above and beyond to assist with requests, provide local recommendations, and ensure a pleasant stay. The check-in process is generally smooth, and staff are often commended for accommodating early arrivals or late departures, even preparing breakfast bags for guests leaving before dining hours. Many reviews mention specific instances of staff remembering returning guests and providing a warm, welcoming atmosphere. While the vast majority of feedback is positive, a few isolated comments mention instances of less accommodating or noisy staff, but these are exceptions to the generally excellent service experience.

Additional Information
Many guests consider the hotel to offer good value for money, appreciating the quality of their stay relative to the cost. The property is often described as modern and renovated, contributing to a fresh and appealing ambiance. However, some guests feel that certain areas could benefit from further upgrades. The hotel is a practical choice for those attending conferences nearby, particularly at the Grand Hyatt. While most amenities are well-received, it is worth noting that water in the room is not complimentary, and room service is primarily limited to beverages, without food options. Some guests have also reported isolated issues such as loud music from private events on the top floor, which can occasionally impact the quiet enjoyment of their stay.