Athens la Strada

Newly renovated as of summer 2017, this small hotel has one entrance, but two buildings. One building contains the rooms and suites, and the other building houses the small lobby, but lack of signage can make the property challenging to locate. Designed with modern effect, the lobby is decorated almost entirely in white, from the tiles to the front desk and the baubles hanging above. Touches of color come from the blue LED lighting lining the counters and ceilings, plus the multicolored cushions on plastic sofas that make up the rather uncomfortable and insufficient seating area (the top-floor restaurant, shared with the neighboring hotel, is a more pleasant place to relax). A glass-paned ceiling helps to make the space feel somewhat larger. The overall aesthetic may strike some as hip and others as too futuristic. The hotel attracts mostly couples on holiday.

Located on a quiet street in central Athens’ Plaka neighborhood, just around the corner from shops and cafes that even locals frequent, the hotel is well-suited for tourists who want to be right in the action. Attractions, notable areas, and landmarks are all within easy reach. Syntagma Square is a four-minute walk away, the National Archeological Museum is a seven-minute walk away, and the National Garden is 11 minutes away on foot. For shopping, the popular Ermou Street is a nine-minute walk away. The Acropolis and Parthenon are 15 minutes away on foot. There are two metro stations and an airport bus stop under 10 minutes away on foot. Athens International Airport is a 35-minute taxi ride away, or about an hour away by public transport.

Rooms here aren’t the most spacious (typical in Athens), but they’re comfortable enough and quiet. Abstract, vividly painted glass panels covering the walls (each room has its own color scheme), modern lights, and glossy tile floors certainly look unique and artistic, but may feel too cold or jarring to some guests. All air-conditioned rooms have flat-screen TVs, sizable closets, safes, and free Wi-Fi -- but no desks. Mini-fridges and electric kettles are provided, but no teabags or coffee pods are available. Ironing equipment can be requested. Views from most of the rooms are unexceptional, but windows do provide sufficient light. Junior Suites, on higher floors, come with better views and balconies. Superior Double Rooms have whirlpool tubs on the balcony. Bathrooms are narrow but stylish, with pretty patterned detailing on the dark gray tiles. All units have walk-in showers with handheld and rainfall showerheads; the massage jet features are especially popular. Toiletries and hairdryers are provided.

Aside from dining options, amenities are scarce here. The breakfast buffet can be included with rates, and is served in the sunny and modern restaurant on the top floor (shared with the neighboring Status Suites hotel) and the space features large windows and amazing views of the Acropolis. The spread of cold cuts, cheese, canned fruits, breads, hard-boiled eggs, and juices isn’t the best in quality, but it’s adequate. The restaurant transforms into a sleek dinner space in the evenings, with dim lighting and a cocktail bar, where again, the view and ambience beats the food. Room service is available. Laundry service is available for a fee, and Wi-Fi throughout the property is free.