The Poseidon Athens Hotel is a 3-star seaside hotel located in the Athens Riviera suburb of Vouliagmeni, directly across from the beach and about 25 kilometers (15.5 miles) south of the Acropolis. It is known for its panoramic Saronic Gulf views, rooftop pool, and straightforward access to both the coast and central Athens.
Location and Setting
The hotel sits on Poseidonos Avenue in Vouliagmeni, a prestigious coastal area often called the “Athens Riviera.” This puts it within walking distance of Vouliagmeni Beach and the famous Lake Vouliagmeni, a natural thermal spa. The location is a trade-off: it is far from the historical center (about a 40–50 minute drive depending on traffic), but it offers what many visitors want—sea air, swimming, and a quieter base than the city center. The tram stop is roughly a 10–15 minute walk, and the hotel runs a free shuttle to the nearest metro station (Elliniko) during certain hours, which helps for day trips into Athens.
Rooms and Amenities
The hotel has 63 rooms, most with balconies facing the sea or the mountain. Standard amenities include air conditioning, a fridge, a flat-screen TV, and free Wi-Fi (which can be spotty in some rooms). The decor is dated but clean—think 1990s Greek hotel rather than boutique chic. The rooftop pool is the standout feature: it is small but offers a 180-degree view of the Aegean, and the rooftop bar serves drinks and light meals. There is also a ground-floor restaurant with a buffet breakfast (included in most rates) and a separate a la carte menu for lunch and dinner. The hotel does not have a private beach; guests use the public beach across the road, which is free but can get crowded in July and August.
How to Choose This Hotel
Book the Poseidon Athens if your priority is the sea and you do not mind commuting to see the Acropolis. It suits:
- Travelers who want to swim daily and relax by the water.
- Couples or solo visitors who prefer a quieter, more residential area.
- People attending events at the nearby Astir Palace or Vouliagmeni venues.
Avoid it if you plan to spend most of your time in central Athens—you would lose 1.5–2 hours per day in transit. For those, a hotel near Syntagma or Plaka is more practical.
Cost and Value
Rates vary by season. In high summer (June–September), a double room with sea view typically runs €100–€180 per night. In winter (November–February), prices drop to €60–€90. Breakfast is usually included. Compared to other 3-star hotels on the Riviera, it is mid-range—cheaper than the Four Seasons Astir Palace but pricier than a basic pension in Piraeus. The value is decent if you use the pool and beach; if you just sleep there, you are paying for the address. Note that there is a city tax of €1.50 per room per night, and parking is free but limited (first come, first served).
Common Complaints and How to Avoid Them
Recent guest reviews (2022–2024) consistently mention three issues:
- Noise: Rooms facing Poseidonos Avenue can hear traffic, especially with windows open. Ask for a sea-view room on a higher floor, which are quieter.
- Outdated bathrooms: Some showers have weak pressure and old fixtures. Request a renovated room (they exist on the 4th and 5th floors) at check-in.
- Beach access: The public beach across the road is not managed by the hotel, so umbrellas and loungers are rented from a separate vendor (€5–€10 per set). The hotel provides towels, but not beach gear.
To avoid these, book directly with the hotel and specify “renovated room, high floor, sea view” in the reservation notes.
Comparisons: Poseidon vs. Nearby Hotels
The two closest competitors are the Athens Riviera Hotel (also 3-star, about 1 km north) and the Divani Apollon Palace (5-star, 2 km south). The Athens Riviera is slightly cheaper but has no pool and is farther from the beach. The Divani is significantly more expensive (€250+ per night) but offers a private beach, spa, and multiple pools. The Poseidon sits in between: it has the pool and views of a higher-end hotel, but the service and amenities of a budget property. For a similar price, the Aloe Athens (in Glyfada) offers a more modern interior but no sea view. Choose Poseidon for the location, not the facilities.
Safety and Practical Tips
Vouliagmeni is a safe, upscale neighborhood with a visible police presence along the coast. The hotel has 24-hour reception and key-card access to floors. The main safety concern is the road in front—Poseidonos Avenue is busy, and the crosswalk to the beach is not always respected by drivers. Use the pedestrian bridge at the bus stop. For swimming, the beach has lifeguards in summer, but there are no lifeguards at the hotel pool. The tap water in Athens is safe to drink, but many guests prefer bottled. If you arrive by taxi from the airport, expect €35–€45 and a 30–40 minute ride; the public bus X96 from the airport stops near the hotel (€5.50 one way) but takes about 1.5 hours.
Frequently Asked Questions
Is the Poseidon Athens Hotel close to the Acropolis?
No, it is about 25 km away. By car, it takes 40–60 minutes depending on traffic; by public transport (tram + metro), allow 1.5 hours. The hotel offers a free shuttle to Elliniko metro station, from which the Acropolis stop is about 30 minutes.
Does the hotel have a private beach?
No. It is across the road from the public Vouliagmeni Beach. The hotel does not own or manage any part of the beach, so you pay separately for umbrellas and loungers. The rooftop pool is the hotel’s only swimming facility.
Is breakfast included?
In most room rates, yes. The buffet includes Greek yogurt, honey, pastries, eggs, cold cuts, and fresh fruit. If you book through a third-party site, check the rate details—some do not include it.
Can I walk to Lake Vouliagmeni?
Yes, it is about a 15–20 minute walk along the coastal path. The lake is a natural spa with a small entrance fee (around €15 per person in 2025) and is open year-round. The hotel can also call a taxi, which takes 5 minutes.
Is the hotel suitable for families?
It is acceptable, but not ideal. The pool is shallow and safe for children, and the beach is close. However, there is no kids’ club, and the rooms are small for a family of four. The hotel provides cribs on request, but there are no connecting rooms.
What is the cancellation policy?
It varies by rate. Flexible rates allow free cancellation up to 48 hours before arrival; non-refundable rates are cheaper but cannot be changed. Always read the policy at booking, especially for summer stays.
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