Exploring the vibrant city of Athens while staying at a 5-star luxury hotel is an unforgettable experience. If you’re planning a visit and want to immerse yourself in luxury, Syntagma Square offers a great selection of 5-star hotels to choose from. Syntagma Square is the perfect location, as you will be right in the middle of all the action, from ancient landmarks to shopping and dining all right at your feet.
OverviewÂ
Celebrating its 150 years in 2024, The Hotel Grande Bretagne has a rich history intertwined with the city’s development and Greece’s modern state. Part of the Marriott Hotels Luxury Collection, the hotel has welcomed esteemed guests for decades, including royalty, celebrities, and world leaders. Initially built in 1842 as a mansion, it became a luxurious hotel in 1874.Â
Throughout the 20th century, it played pivotal roles during wars and political upheavals, serving as headquarters for occupying forces and hosting important conferences. Despite these tumultuous times, it expanded and remained a prestigious destination, making it one of the classics.
This classic hotel features 320 rooms and suites, designed to reflect its rich heritage while offering modern conveniences, exceptional service, and unparalleled comfort, making it the perfect retreat for those looking to experience the best of Athens in style. From its gilded rooms and suites to its world-class dining options and state-of-the-art facilities, every aspect of the Hotel Grande Bretagne has been carefully crafted to provide an unforgettable experience.
The Hotel Grande Bretagne is highly recommended for those seeking a luxurious stay in a central and historic part of Athens with exceptional service and amenities.
Positive Aspects
- Location: Prime location across from Syntagma Square, near major attractions (Tripadvisor, Oyster.com). The nearby National Garden (the former Royal Palace Gardens), offers a serene escape from the city’s hustle and bustle, all just a short walk from the hotel.
- Rooms: The rooms are elegantly designed with luxurious furnishings and modern amenities. They range from Classic Rooms to the opulent Royal Suite, with features such as marble bathrooms, and in some cases stunning views of the Acropolis and Syntagma Square. If you have booked a room with an Acropolis view, waking up to the sight of this ancient wonder can be truly magical.
- Service: The service is exceptional, with staff going out of their way to ensure a pleasant stay (Tripadvisor). One guest mentioned how the concierge team not only recommended fantastic local restaurants but also managed to secure last-minute tickets to a sold-out theater performance, ensuring an unforgettable evening.
- Dining: The GB Roof Garden Restaurant is particularly noted for its stunning views of the Acropolis and delicious Mediterranean cuisine, while the Winter Garden City Lounge provides a tranquil setting for afternoon tea or light meals. Savoring a perfectly cooked dish at the Roof Garden, while gazing out at the illuminated Parthenon is a feast for the senses. During the summer months there are also open air movie screenings!
- Ambiance: The architecture and the opulent and gilded interiors, with antique furnishings and original artwork, create a regal atmosphere that reflects the hotels rich history (Tripadvisor, Oyster.com).
- Amenities: The indoor and outdoor pools, the GB Spa, and the fitness center add to the luxurious experience (Tripadvisor, Oyster.com).
Areas for Improvement
- Room Condition: Some rooms could benefit from updates to maintain their luxurious standard (Tripadvisor).
- Value for Money: A few guests felt the high cost wasn’t always justified, despite the excellent amenities and service (Tripadvisor).
Room Rates
- Range: €450 to €1,200 per night, varying by room category and season.
- Style: Luxurious & Opulent
- If you are a Marriott Bonvoy Member, check if special rates apply for your stay! (Marriott)
Local Insights
Staying at the Hotel Grande Bretagne places you in the heart of Athens, with several key attractions just a stone’s throw away. A leisurely walk will take you to the Acropolis Museum, or you can explore the vibrant Plaka neighborhood.For a modern twist, head to Ermou Street, the Attica department store or visit the luxury brand stores on Voukourestiou St. for a shopping spree.
An Important Note
While Syntagma Square is at the heart of Athens and close to all major attractions, it is also a common site for major events and political demonstrations that occasionally turn intense. The reality of encountering protests can be unsettling and, while most protests are peaceful, the presence of large crowds and heightened police activity can be intimidating. Whether for an event or demonstration the closing off of Syntagma Square can cause major disruptions around the city.
What you can do to offset any disturbance:
- Check with hotel staff for current information about demonstrations and possible disruptions in the area​ during your stay
- Make special arrangements and time allowance if you need to leave the area to catch a flight for example
Contact Information
Address: 1 Vasileos Georgiou A’ Street, Syntagma Square, Athens 105 64, Greece
Website: Hotel Grande Bretagne
Phone: +30 210 333 0000
Map: Hotel Grande Bretagne, a Luxury Collection Hotel, Athens – Google
Book:
Overall, the Hotel Grande Bretagne offers a luxurious and memorable stay in the heart of Athens. It combines excellent service, top-notch amenities, and a prime location.
Book your stay and enjoy all that Athens has to offer while indulging in the finest accommodations.
Links: https://www.oyster.com/athens/hotels/hotel-grande-bretagne-a-luxury-collection-hotel/overview/
