Where to stay in Athens

Regarding day trip with lunch, you'll have little chance of finding one. Travel to the islands is by ferry, which is a means of transportation just like buses on the mainland. These aren't excursion trips like a boat trip on a river.

But that doesn't matter since you can have lunch once you're on the island you're going to. The only question is which island you want to go to. Aegina is the closest from Piraeus. About an hour by ferry.

Thanks! Maybe I didn't explain right. I found a website that is a day excursion to Aegina and Agistri, 10 hours, with transfers and lunch. I was wanting to see if they were a legitimate operation, maybe someone who took one could let me know how it went. Getyourguide.com is the site.
If you have any info on hotels i would greatly appreciate it. Thanks again for your feedback!

Sorry, I go to Athens regularly but staying 4 or 5 nights in short term rentals like Airbnb, never in hotels, other forum members will probably be able to give you hotel recommendations.

I also have no experience with these resellers like Get Your Guide, I am my own Get Your Guide, which requires a little research. All these day trips are very easy to find locally without intermediaries like GYG.

Thanks for the info.

I stopped using hotels in Athens and switched to airbnb as they offer more for less.

Hotel prices have risen dramatically the last few years and I can get a studio in a central location like Thisseo or other nearby Greek neighborhoods for less.

Obviously what you are looking for in your budget can determine you accommodations.

Aibnbs will be studios/apartments with kitchens, balcony, and some even have washing machines.

I use to go to the Attalos Hotel on Athinas Street and is safe, clean and central to everything for Athens.

Many other options for hotels all over Athens and you'll probably get some recommendations on RS.

Those day cruises to Aegina/Agistri are popular as they are the closest islands but probably half the day will be on boats departing/returning plus the ferry to Agistri.

If that works for you shop around websites for day trips from Athens and see what is in your best interests.

Thank you!

been to Athens twice now. Both times we stayed at the Hotel Hera. Great location! Walkable to the Acropolis, the Plaka and the metro to go further. Good breakfast. Walkable to restaurants. Nice restaurant on the roof top. We always get the Acropolis view room.

https://www.herahotel.gr/

That's Derek, that is most helpful!