Sir Athens, Athens

Pros

• The building was constructed in 1800 and is part of the residence of the former home of Pavlos Kountouriotis, who was the president of Greece during the 1920s. The Sir Athens has retained its original Neo-classical facade, which maintains an aura of history for those staying here.
• Travelers who enjoy autonomy and independence will appreciate the space and privacy given at the Sir Athens, where you can feel like you’re in a bubble in your room that isn’t disturbed by anyone or anything else.
• The Annex offers a new and unexpected space not typically seen in a hotel, as it's in the attic of the building. It's especially popular with families and couples.

Cons

• The hotel operates mostly remotely, so there’s not a traditional reception desk. Instead, guests can call or message management from their phones or iPads in the rooms and connect that way. The staff is just a few blocks away in the sister hotel of the Sir Athens – the Athens Flair – so they’re never far, but this makes this hotel best for people seeking more autonomy or privacy.

Authenticity

The Sir Athens is in a 19th century Neo-classical building that dates back to 1800. While the interior has been renovated for the 21st century, the exterior retains the original facade of the building, as seen in its iron-wrought balcony and other details. The building has an important historical status, as it's part of the former home of Pavlos Kountouriotis, who was the president of Greece in the 1920s. In fact, Kountouriotis served as the head of state four times, which is more than anyone else in Greek history. 

Location

The Sir Athens is located on a quiet street in Kolonaki and the neighborhood’s bars and restaurants are just a few blocks away. Guests can get to the bottom of Lycabettus Hill in just seven minutes by foot, although the time it takes to get to the top depends on the person.

The Panepestimio Metro is 10 minutes away by foot, while the Acropolis is 25 minutes away walking and the central location of Syntagma Square is 15 minutes away. The Sir Athens is in the central neighborhood of Kolonaki, which is very much a locals’ place and as such, offers travelers the experience of feeling like they’re living in Athens, rather than just visiting it.

Rooms & Bathrooms

The Sir Athens has four rooms in total: one ground floor suite, which includes a small garden, and then one room per floor. The elevator opens directly into rooms on the higher floors, which can only be accessed with a room key. Those looking for more space will love the Annex, which is a large attic that includes a sloped ceiling. Kids especially enjoy this room, so it’s a good option for families. The rooms all include iPads with which guests can contact management to get whatever they need.