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Independent traveling is generally associated with a low budget and therefore the need to look for cheap flights and affordable accommodation. But there are also moments when we want to be pampered and the idea of spending a vacation in a luxury hotel seems a very good one. Whether you plan your honeymoon, want to spend your anniversary in style or just want to do something different than usual, luxury hotels in Athens are excellent choices.

What is a luxury hotel?

Stars are used for hotel classification. Higher star ratings indicate more luxury. The hotels are assessed individually, generally by the travel authority in the respective country, and the stars given depend highly on facilities provided. This opened the debate about smaller hotels which offer luxury facilities but lack elevators, for example, and thus cannot obtain the higher ranking.

Currently, in Greece, we can find both the common stars rating, as well as the letters ranging (from “A” to “F”). The stars classification in German and 5 stars means luxury hotel. But classification is not standard all over Europe so efforts have been made to unify the rating system. In 2009, a new hotel classification system was adopted by the HOTREC (Hotels, Restaurants & Cafés in Europe) but not all European Union countries abided to it.

Luxury hotels in Athens

Regardless of the definitions and ranking system , we all know what to expect in a luxury hotel: en suite bathroom, TV, phone, internet, mini bar, safe and plenty other facilities. Of course, a view of the Acropolis or an excellent beach location cannot be overlooked.

Here are some of the best luxury hotels in Athens:

Crowne Plaza Athens

It is located near the city center and offers excellent on site dining. The guests can also use the fitness center, sauna and swimming pool. All rooms have TV, safe, phone, wi-fi and AC. Room rates start at €108 per night for a double room, during the high season.

King George Palace

It has been distinguished as the best hotel in Greece ranked among the 100 Top European Hotels in the Conde Nast Traveler 2006 and 2007 Readers’ Choice Awards. It is located in Constitution Square, close to the Parliament. It offers an indoor pool and fitness center, restaurant on site. Hotel rooms book up very fast, so make sure to book in advance.

Arion Resort and Spa offers spectacular views of the Saronic Golf. It offers rooms, suites and bungalows, on a private peninsula. There is a private beach, an outdoor pool, the spa and the kids club. The lowest standard rate is €365 per night.

Divani Apollon Palace And Spa

It is a luxury resort located on the exclusive area of Vouliagmeni on the Athenian Riviera, just 18 km from the city center. The hotel offers a fitness center and two saunas, as well as an outdoor tennis court. The rooms are specious and have wi-fi, TV, radio, phone, mini bar and room safe. Hotel rooms book up very fast so make sure to book in advance. For the summer of 2011, the Presidential Suite starts at €2500 per night.