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trip to Greece in August

Hi everyone,

I will travel to Athens in August where I will spend 3 nights. I plan on visiting the Acropolis and some of the main sites located within a walking distance from the Acropolis. Does anyone have any suggestions for a decent hotel (4 or 5 stars) in the Plaka area? We are two people looking for a quiet hotel (we understood that some of the hotels are located in really noisy areas).

After spending 3 days in Athens, we plan on travelling to Thessaloniki by train. Does anyone have any suggestions about that? It is our first time in Greece and we are not sure what to expect in terms of public transport. Someone suggested taking the bus, but we would prefer the train just because of the potential scenic views along the way. Do high-speed trains have free wifi?

Any suggestions are welcome, about accommodation in Athens, travelling to Thessaloniki, or day trips/activities in Athens and Thessaloniki.

Happy travels everyone!
Nikki

Posted by
11056 posts

I will give you two five star hotels but they are not in the tourist area of Plaka. The two top five star hotels on Syntagma Square are Grande Bretagne and King George.
Avoid Electra Palace which is in the Plaka.

Posted by
7 posts

Thank you so much, Suki. I really appreciate you taking the time to respond. This is very helpful. I am going to look into it. Thanks, Nikki

Posted by
3961 posts

I can recommend the 4 star Hotel Hera. It is in the Plaka. All in walking distance to your desired sights. We spent 5 nights and enjoyed the quiet area, delicious breakfast, comfortable room, and helpful staff. It was 2 minutes from our favorite restaurant (Mani Mani). Enjoy your stay! https://www.google.com/url?sa=t&rct=j&q=&esrc=s&source=web&cd=&ved=2ahUKEwjFt6fymaj9AhWpIzQIHaqhBrQQFnoECAwQAQ&url=https%3A%2F%2Fwww.herahotel.gr%2F&usg=AOvVaw3X2thrd-G1hF2lWFXn7oPL

Posted by
7 posts

Hi Janis,

Thank you so much. This looks like a great option, indeed. Thank you so much, this is awesome. Best regards, Nikki.

Posted by
11056 posts

And I agree with dining at ManiMani, wonderful!
I highly recommend a walking tour in Athens with Athens-Walks. com, owner Kostas. This is a locally owned and led tour.

Posted by
7 posts

Hi again Suki,
Thank you so much for this suggestion, that sounds great. I will definitely check it out. Best regards, Nikki.

Posted by
1383 posts

Nikki

The Electra Palace in Thessaloniki is right on the main square and has great views. Even if you decide not to stay there it’s worth going to their rooftop bar for coffee.

The church of Hagia Sofia is a must visit as are the run of Roman sites near the Arch of Galerius.

If you want a day trip I would really recommend Vergina and Pella. I think various companies do them but we did this one

https://www.viator.com/tours/Thessaloniki/Full-Day-Trip-to-Vergina-and-Pella-from-Thessaloniki/d23853-63073P1

Have a great trip.

Alan

Posted by
33 posts

Our go to hotel in Athens is the AVA. Small Boutique, excellent service. Top floor rooms are large with huge terraces. On a quiet street at the foot of the acropolis but so close to everything. They may already be sold out for August.

Posted by
7 posts

Thank you so much, Alan! Excellent suggestions, I will definitely follow these! Best regards, Nikki

Posted by
7 posts

Hi Lewis, Thank you so much for your response. I will definitely check AVA too, hopefully there are still room available. Best regards, Nikki

Posted by
7 posts

Hi TravelBug,

Thank you so much for your response. This is very helpful! Best regards, Nikki