The flight to Athens, Greece can be long, especially for visitors from the US Here are some hotels that are close to the Athens International Airport that have been either recommended by readers or I have had experience with them directly.
Hotels near the airport
The Sofitel at Athens Airport is a 4-star hotel located at the airport. It can’t be beat for convenience, though its exterior architecture is dismal and room rates aren’t cheap. The rooms themselves are reportedly memorably luxurious, according to one seasoned traveler.
Another option is the Holiday Inn at the Athens airport. While it’s a five-minute free shuttle ride, it’s closer than most other options and offers a comfortable retreat for the weary traveler for less from the Sofitel, but still expect to pay around $ 150 at the counter. You may want to try booking online on your way.
Hotel Armonia. Declared “the closest hotel to the new airport” before the opening of the Sofitel, it is about a half hour drive. It is located near the healing waters of Lake Vouliagmeni. Its sister hotel, not far away, is the Paradise Hotel.
Peri’s Hotel and Apartments offers a free shuttle service to its location in Artemis, about ten minutes from Athens International Airport. Rates include a continental breakfast and free Wi-Fi. It can be booked directly or through the Pacific Travel office at the airport, which can be found right after exiting baggage claim.
In Rafina, Hotel Avra is under new management and has recently been renovated and updated. It is convenient for the hydrofoils and ferries leaving from Rafina and it is about a 30 minute journey from the airport.
Astir Palace hotels are luxurious, expensive, but offer an indulgent retreat. It’s a waste for just one night – if you book here, stay for several and enjoy exploring Attica. These luxury hotels are also found in Vouliagmeni.
Plaza Hotel
This is a small hotel (72 rooms) in Vouliagmeni, near the famous lake, located half an hour from the airport. Bonus: it says it offers room service until 2am, a lifesaver after a long, late flight, but I’d call ahead to make sure you’re late.
Hotel Mare Nostrum
Located in Vravrona, a nice area half an hour from the airport. This hotel has been repeatedly recommended as a good value. If you stay there, try to visit the enchanting Temple of Artemis located nearby.
If you haven’t planned ahead, you can book through one of the travel counters at the airport upon arrival. I have obtained good rates through the travel agencies at the airport, even at busy times of the year. If you are going to your hotel by public transport or taxi, they are very careful to give you good directions, including writing them down for your bus or taxi driver and an estimate of taxi charges if necessary.
Estimates of time between the airport and the hotels are as reported or experienced, should be considered approximate and may vary substantially depending on traffic conditions. If you’ve had a good stay at a hotel near the airport, let me know and I’ll put you on this list.
