Though it’s located in the Old City, Central Hotel Athens is a modern building with elegant, contemporary interiors. The lobby has sleek white floors and walls that are accented by a blond wood front desk, a retro fuchsia loveseat, and a painting of the Acropolis. A small set of stairs with glass and fuchsia rails leads to the second floor. There is an elevator, but many guests complain that it’s tiny. Several common areas provide places for guests to sit and relax, with soft brown chairs and couches clustered around blond-wood coffee tables. Plenty of natural light comes in through the large windows. Small touches of a retro style spring up in a few plastic chairs and oversized decorative chess pieces. The breakfast room is made up of warm and inviting browns, abstract paintings, wooden floors, and floor-to-ceiling windows. By contrast, the terrace bar is chic and contemporary with dark wooden accents, light gray leather chairs, blue leather couches and bar stools, and small potted plants on each table adding a touch of green. The views of the Acropolis are astounding and provide a romantic setting for a drink. The hotel mainly attracts couples, though it also caters to families and business travelers.

The hotel is centrally located in the Old City of Plaka and within walking distance of popular attractions. Syntagma Square is just a five-minute walk away, while the Ancient Agora of Athens is an 11-minute walk from the hotel. It’s about a 15-minute walk to the Acropolis and the famous Parthenon. The National Archeological Museum -- a 25-minute walk away -- is a bit of a hike for some, but it can also be reached by tram in 15 minutes, and the stop is a six-minute walk from the hotel. Also a six-minute walk away is a metro station as well as a couple of bus stops. Restaurants, bars, and cafes are found on surrounding streets. Athens International Airport is around a 40- to 60-minute drive, depending on traffic, or 50 minutes via public transportation.

Rooms at this property are bright and simple with basic decor, but they vary in size -- some are quite small, especially the Standard Rooms. Wood parquet floors, white linens, blond-wood furniture, and leafy curtains provide a polished yet airy atmosphere. Colors are light neutrals, while denim-colored chairs or dresser drawers provide a contrasting color to the soft beige hues. All rooms are air-conditioned and include flat-screen TVs, free Wi-Fi, work desks, safes, and mini-fridges. Some complaints have been made concerning the air-conditioning, however. Superior Plus Rooms also have tea- and coffee-making facilities, robes and slippers, and a free bottle of wine. For the best views of the Acropolis, possibly even from a private balcony, book Superior and Superior Plus Rooms. Family Rooms are available and have two separate bedrooms and bathrooms with interconnecting doors. Bathrooms are simple and modern, with spacious marble sinks, shower/tub combos, hairdryers, and toiletries. Smoking rooms are available. 

A few on-site features give this small property an extra level of comfort and character. The best feature, by far, is the rooftop bar, Thea Terrace Bar, which serves drinks and light snacks on a lovely terrace with astounding views of the Acropolis. There’s also an outdoor hot tub for relaxing. A breakfast buffet is served in the morning and is included in room rates. There are three meeting rooms that can hold up to 100 guests, free Wi-Fi, and a business center with computers and printer. Parking costs a fee and is limited.