Centrotel Hotel

The lobby inside Centrotel has plenty of comfy seating options in the form of cozy gray sofas and plush club chairs alongside wooden tables, but the fabric and tile flooring show some wear. A five-tiered orange and brown recessed ceiling and light fixture hang overhead. Five large steps in an alcove hold dramatic woven light sculptures, which add interest to the space. Outside, a walled courtyard appeals more to smokers than sunbathers, though planted trees are a nice touch.

The downtown location of Centrotel is less than ideal for guests who want to be within walking distance of Plaka. However, the Victoria metro station is about six blocks from the hotel. There aren't many restaurants or shops that cater to tourists, though there are a few nearby chain hotels with bars, like the terrace at the Radisson Blu Park Hotel. Guests have reported that the neighborhood feels sketchy at night, so walking alone might not be recommended.

Rooms at Centrotel have interesting architectural ceiling details including wooden platforms over the beds and inverted blue light fixtures. Rooms have deep red or royal blue carpeting, tube TVs, and mismatched bed coverlets. Private balconies have enough space for modern blue wicker chairs and a table, and boast interesting views of the street and rooftops of Athens. Some bathrooms include whirlpool style tubs, but they take up most of the available square footage. Bathrobes are a nice surprise at this price point. Guests report that rooms are dated, but clean.

Guests with cars will appreciate free underground parking -- a real luxury in cramped Athens. Free Wi-Fi is available throughout the hotel, but some guests have reported that the signal isn't strong. There's a single laptop and printer for guests to use. Food options include a daily breakfast buffet (for a charge) and room service, though no other meals are served at the hotel. A small bar can provide a cocktail in a pinch, but it's not the kind of space where you'd linger for hours.