If you’re searching for a luxury hotel in Athens that feels modern, artistic, and a little unexpected, New Hotel Athens is one to have on your radar.

Set in the heart of the city and part of the Design Hotels portfolio by Marriott International, this property offers something completely different from the more traditional, classical hotels you’ll find in Athens, Greece. It’s bold, design-forward, and full of personality without sacrificing comfort. As a luxury travel advisor, I’m always looking for hotels that feel both elevated and well-located, and this one checks both boxes.

We stayed here at the start of our Greece trip, and it was the perfect home base while we explored all that Athens has to offer. 

A Hotel With a Story

One of the things that makes New Hotel Athens stand out is its transformation.

The building was once the Olympic Palace Hotel, which had become dated over time. It was reimagined by an art collector and brought to life as a creative, design-led space that feels fresh, eclectic, and distinctly modern.

From the moment you walk into the lobby, you notice it. The space is layered with textures, art, and unexpected details that make it feel more like a curated gallery than a typical hotel. It’s chic without being intimidating, and it immediately feels intentional.

Location That Makes Exploring Easy

Location-wise, New Hotel Athens is incredibly convenient, especially if it’s your first time in the city.

It’s within easy reach of major sites like the Acropolis, Syntagma Square, and the Plaka neighborhood, which makes it a great home base for exploring. You can spend your mornings sightseeing and easily return to the hotel to reset before heading out again in the evening.

For a city stay, that kind of central access makes a big difference.

Our Stay at New Hotel Athens: Elevated From the Start

From check-in, the experience felt seamless. We were fortunate to receive a room upgrade, which gave us a bit more space and an even better overall layout. As a luxury travel advisor, this is exactly the kind of value I’m always looking to secure for my clients through preferred partnerships and thoughtful planning. 

The rooms at New Hotel Athens lean into the same design-forward aesthetic as the rest of the property. Think clean lines, thoughtful textures, and subtle artistic elements that make the space feel unique without sacrificing comfort. It strikes a balance between stylish and functional, which isn’t always easy to do.

We also had daily breakfast included, which is something I always recommend (and typically can secure for you at no extra cost!) when staying in a city like Athens. It makes mornings feel slower and more relaxed, especially before a full day of exploring.

Dining & Atmosphere at New Hotel Athens

One of the highlights of our stay was dining at the hotel’s rooftop restaurant called Art Lounge Restaurant.

The setting alone is worth it. Being above the city and surrounded by history in every direction feels incredibly special, especially at sunset. We loved the Mediterranean dishes and well-crafted cocktails, and they even offer a Sunday brunch. The space also features rotating art exhibitions from contemporary Greek artists, which adds a creative and fitting touch.

Downstairs on the ground level, New Lobby Lounge is equally worth mentioning. It’s effortlessly chic and a great spot to grab a drink before or after dinner. Even if you’re not staying at the hotel, it’s the kind of place you’d want to stop into.

Amenities That Round Out the Stay

New Hotel Athens also offers a spa and fitness center, which are ideal if you want to build in a bit of downtime during your stay.

While Athens is often seen as more of a “pass-through” destination on the way to the islands, having access to these amenities makes it easier to slow down and actually enjoy your time in the city.

There is also offsite parking available, which is helpful if you’re planning to rent a car, though most visitors won’t need one while staying centrally.

A Peek Inside the Penthouse

One of the most memorable parts of our stay was getting to tour the penthouse.

It’s exactly what you’d expect in the best way. Spacious, beautifully designed, and with incredible views over the city. It felt private, elevated, and perfect for a special occasion stay.

Moments like that are a reminder of how much range a property like this can offer, depending on the experience you’re looking for.

Who New Hotel Athens is Perfect For

New Hotel Athens is a great fit for travelers who want something a little different from the traditional luxury hotel experience.

It’s especially ideal for:

• Design lovers
• Couples looking for a stylish city stay
• Honeymooners starting or ending their Greece trip in Athens
• Travelers who want a central location without sacrificing personality

Booking Your New Hotel Athens Stay

So, is New Hotel Athens worth it? Absolutely.

It offers a unique combination of design, location, and thoughtful service that makes your time in Athens feel elevated without feeling overly formal. It’s the kind of hotel that enhances your trip rather than just giving you a place to sleep.

If you’re planning a trip to Greece and want help choosing the right hotels and creating a seamless itinerary from Athens to the islands, this is exactly what I do for my clients. I’d love to help you design it. Contact me today to begin planning!

Hotel photos courtesy of Marriott.