Lecture Notes: Where to Stay in Athens

Introduction

• Channel/Host: Greece Explained, hosted by Sebastian
• Topic: Best neighborhoods to stay in Athens

Key Areas in Athens

• Focus on the historical center, archaeological sites, and museums
• Acropolis: Central landmark
• Ancient Agora: Second most important archaeological site
• Food/Nightlife Area: Nearby attractions

Recommended Neighborhoods

• Proximity: Stay within walking distance to avoid taxi/metro costs
• Transportation: Metro access is convenient, especially from the airport (10 euros vs. 50 euros by taxi)

1. Psyri

• Pros:
  • Pedestrian-friendly with mezedopoleia (tiny taverns, affordable food)
  • Vibrant nightlife
  • Affordable hotels with Acropolis views
• Cons:
  • Noise on weekends due to nightlife
  • 20-minute walk from Acropolis, farther than other neighborhoods

2. Monastiraki

• Pros:
  • Open squares, archaeological sites
  • Flea and street markets for souvenirs
  • Rooftop bars with Acropolis views
• Cons:
  • Pickpocket hotspot
  • Presence of homeless people at night

3. City Center

• Pros:
  • Known for street food (e.g., famous souvlaki at "Kostas")
• Cons:
  • More expensive
  • Few hotels with Acropolis views

4. Syntagma

• Pros:
  • Shopping hub (Ermou Street)
  • Upscale hotels (e.g., King George Hotel)
• Cons:
  • Expensive accommodations
  • Lacks charm and local food scene

5. Plaka

• Pros:
  • Iconic area at the bottom of Acropolis Hill
  • Authentic, older hotel buildings
• Cons:
  • Very touristy, busy, expensive
  • Limited Acropolis views

6. Makrygianni

• Pros:
  • Best Acropolis views from hotels
  • Close to Acropolis and Museum
  • Near Philopappou Hill for walks
• Cons:
  • Limited food and nightlife options

7. Thiseio

• Pros:
  • Quietest neighborhood
  • Great for peaceful walks, close to Philopappou
• Cons:
  • Limited restaurants and nightlife

Neighborhoods to Avoid

• Omonia: Avoid due to presence of homeless and drug use
  • Anything north of Evripidou Street is best avoided

Summary

• Psyri: For taverns, nightlife, affordable hotels
• Monastiraki: For markets and bars with views
• City Center: For street food
• Syntagma: For shopping and luxury hotels
• Plaka: For charm and iconic sights
• Makrygianni: For the best Acropolis views
• Thiseio: For tranquility

Additional Advice

• Consider staying by the sea if not visiting islands; otherwise, focus on central Athens.

Conclusion

• Choose a neighborhood based on preferences and planned activities
• Future videos to cover hotels in Athens and staying in Santorini

Note: This is a summary of key points discussed in the video "Where to Stay in Athens" by Sebastian on the channel Greece Explained.