Hotel Grande Bretagne

This Victorian palace has seen it's share of jubilation and heart-break, having been at the forefront of Greek hospitality for 130 years and hosting all the stars for the Athens 2004 Olympics. The 290 grand rooms and 31 suites are wonderful once again after a complete restoration in 2003. Subscribing to the wise words of Coco Chanel, that "luxury has to be comfortable, or else it is not luxury,” rooms are smallish, but refined and elegantly painted in a restful beige-pink throughout, with a smattering of antiques and oil paintings as well as modern amenities. Insist on a suite with a view of the Acropolis—you'll soon see why Winston Churchill was such a fan of this hotel. If you can't get the view from your room, head to the rooftop Bar-Restaurant and enjoy some fine Mediterranean cuisine as the sun sets over that famous landmark. After lounging by the indoor and outdoor pool (who needs the Aegean sea?), head to the extravagant spa, which offers treatments from all over the world. And if you find time to leave the premises, the location is prime for downtown Athens destinations. One of the best Athens bets for where to stay...

Room rates from €255.