There are over 30 5-star hotels in Athens, most of them downtown, close to the historical center, and a few others spread out on the northern and southern (seaside) suburbs. On average, prices are lower in wintertime, and always at reasonable levels in comparison with those in other major cities across the world. Currently, for a regular double room they start from a little over 100 USD/90 euro per night and max out around 500 USD (at the Four Seasons). For a deluxe suite, expect to pay anywhere from 500 USD/450 euro (which is the norm) to 5,000 USD/4,500 euro (which is the exception).
A downtown location will guarantee you walking distance or a 5-10 minute taxi drive to the city’s main attractions, including the Acropolis hill with the iconic Parthenon temple, the Lycabettus hill with the 19th c. Chapel of St. George, the private and public museums and historic buildings along Vasilissis Sofias Avenue (that leads to the Greek Parliament), the Panathenaic Stadium, and the infamous Syntagma Square.
The old neighborhoods of Plaka and Monastiraki that connect to a large pedestrian zone sprinkled with ancient monuments are also within walking distance from most downtown hotels. Museums around, that are totally worth a visit are – in order of importance and preference – the Acropolis Museum, the Cycladic Museum, the Archaeological Museum, the Benaki Museum, the Byzantine Museum, the Theocharakis Museum, the Lalaounis Museum, and the War Museum.
Regarding amenities, most outdoor swimming pools are not available during the winter, yet some of the hotels have indoor ones, combined with spa and beauty facilities. If you are not into sightseeing but prefer to relax as if it is still summer, opt for the few Athenian 5-star hotels that are on the seaside. Greek winter is mild with mostly sunny days, so why not get some scoop of what the magic of Greece is about? Remember that from Athens a view to the ‘ocean’ is practically a view to the Aegean Sea which is the eastern part of the lovely Mediterranean Sea.
See the list of recommended 5-star hotels at https://www.beyondgreeksalad.com/2019/12/12/finest-accommodation-on-a-winter-trip-to-athens.
