The Hera Hotel in Athens is a 4-star boutique hotel located near the Acropolis, known for its rooftop restaurant with direct views of the Acropolis and its proximity to the Acropolis Museum. It is a popular choice for travelers who want a central location, modern amenities, and a quieter stay than hotels directly on the busy pedestrian street of Dionysiou Areopagitou.
Location and Setting
The hotel sits on Falirou Street in the Makrygianni neighborhood, just a few minutes’ walk from the Acropolis Museum and the entrance to the Acropolis archaeological site. This area is residential and relatively quiet at night, yet it is close to the Plaka district and the Syntagma Square area. The nearest metro station is Acropoli (Line 2), about 300 meters away, which makes getting to and from the airport or Piraeus port straightforward. The hotel’s rooftop bar and restaurant, the Hera Restaurant, faces the Acropolis directly, so guests can see the Parthenon lit up at night while dining. The location is one of the main reasons travelers choose this hotel over others in the city center.
Rooms and Amenities
The Hera Hotel has 88 rooms and suites, all of which were renovated in recent years. Room categories range from standard doubles to executive suites, and some rooms have balconies with views of the Acropolis or the city. Standard amenities include air conditioning, a flat-screen TV, a minibar, a safe, and free Wi-Fi. The bathrooms are modern, with walk-in showers in most rooms. The hotel also has a small fitness room and a business corner, but there is no swimming pool or spa. The rooftop restaurant serves breakfast and dinner, and the bar is open in the evening. Room sizes are on the smaller side by American standards, but typical for a boutique hotel in central Athens. The hotel is not wheelchair accessible throughout, as there are steps at the entrance and no elevator to the rooftop, so guests with mobility issues should request a ground-floor room or consider another property.
History and Reputation
The Hera Hotel opened in the 1960s and was one of the first modern hotels in the Makrygianni area. It has been owned and operated by the same family for decades, which gives it a stable, independent character compared to the large international chains nearby. Over the years, it has built a reputation for friendly, personalized service and a quiet, professional atmosphere. It is not a luxury five-star property, nor does it try to be; its strengths are its location, its rooftop view, and its consistent quality. Many repeat guests are drawn to the hotel’s calm vibe and the fact that it is not part of a big brand, which some travelers prefer for a more local feel.
Dining and the Rooftop
The rooftop restaurant is the hotel’s most distinctive feature. It serves a buffet breakfast in the morning with Greek and continental options, and in the evening it offers a menu of Mediterranean and Greek dishes. The view of the Acropolis is unobstructed, and the terrace is a popular spot for sunset drinks. Because the hotel is not as tall as some nearby buildings, the view is at eye level with the Parthenon, which makes it feel more intimate. The restaurant is open to non-guests as well, so it can get busy, especially during peak season. It is advisable to book a table for dinner if you want a prime spot by the railing. The menu is moderately priced for a hotel restaurant, with mains around 15–25 euros, and the wine list focuses on Greek labels.
Booking and Costs
Rates at the Hera Hotel vary significantly by season. In the high season (May to October), a standard double room typically costs between 150 and 250 euros per night, while in the winter months it can drop to under 100 euros. Suites and rooms with Acropolis views cost more. Breakfast is often included in the room rate, but not always, so check the booking details. The hotel does not charge a resort fee, and city tax of about 1.5 euros per room per night is added at checkout. For the best price, book directly through the hotel’s website or a reputable online travel agency, and compare cancellation policies. Last-minute bookings in summer can be expensive, so reserve well in advance if you have a specific date in mind.
Common Complaints and How to Avoid Them
While the Hera Hotel has generally positive reviews, a few issues come up repeatedly. The most common complaint is noise: the hotel is on a street that, while not a main road, still has traffic, and the windows are not fully soundproof. Rooms facing the street can be noisy in the morning. Another issue is the lack of an elevator to the rooftop, which can be a problem for guests with limited mobility. Some guests also mention that the rooms are small and that the air conditioning can be finicky. To avoid these issues, request a quiet room on a higher floor, or ask for a room facing the courtyard. If you have mobility concerns, call the hotel before booking to discuss accessibility. Also, note that the hotel’s location, while central, is not directly on the main tourist drag, so you will need to walk a few minutes to reach the Plaka’s shops and restaurants.
How It Compares to Nearby Hotels
The Hera Hotel competes with several other properties in the same area. The Athens Gate Hotel, just a few blocks away, also has a rooftop view of the Acropolis and is slightly larger, with a more modern lobby. The Herodion Hotel, across the street, offers a similar boutique experience but has a small rooftop pool. The Amalia Hotel, near the National Garden, is a more traditional, larger hotel with a more formal feel. Compared to these, the Hera Hotel is often a bit cheaper and has a more intimate, family-run atmosphere. It lacks a pool, which some travelers want in the summer, but it makes up for it with the direct view and quieter location. If you are choosing between these hotels, consider what matters more: a pool, a larger room, or a lower price.
Tips for Your Stay
- Book a room with an Acropolis view for the best experience, but be aware that these rooms are more expensive.
- Use the rooftop bar for sunset drinks even if you are not dining there; the view is worth it.
- Take the metro from the airport to Acropoli station; it is cheaper and often faster than a taxi during rush hour.
- Ask the front desk for a map and recommendations; the staff are known for being helpful and honest.
- If you are a light sleeper, bring earplugs or request a courtyard-facing room.
- Check if breakfast is included in your rate; paying separately at the hotel is usually more expensive.
Frequently Asked Questions
Is the Hera Hotel close to the Acropolis?
Yes, it is about a 5-minute walk from the Acropolis entrance and the Acropolis Museum. The hotel is on a quiet side street, so you get the convenience without the noise of the main tourist road.
Does the Hera Hotel have a pool?
No, the hotel does not have a swimming pool. The nearest public pool is at the Athens Olympic Sports Complex, which is far away, so if a pool is essential, consider the Herodion Hotel across the street.
Is breakfast at the Hera Hotel worth it?
Most guests say yes. The breakfast buffet includes Greek yogurt, pastries, eggs, fresh fruit, and local specialties, and it is served on the rooftop with the Acropolis view. If you are on a budget, you can skip it and find cheaper options in the Plaka.
How far is the Hera Hotel from the airport?
The hotel is about 35 kilometers from Athens International Airport. A taxi takes about 40 minutes and costs around 40 euros, while the metro takes about an hour and costs 9 euros per person for a round trip.
Is the Hera Hotel good for families?
Yes, but with caveats. The hotel does not have connecting rooms, but family rooms are available. The location is safe and central, and the staff are accommodating. However, the lack of a pool and the small room sizes might not suit all families.
What is the cancellation policy?
It depends on where you book. Most online travel agencies offer free cancellation up to 24–48 hours before arrival. Direct bookings with the hotel may have different terms, so always read the policy before confirming.
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