AthensWas

Clean lines with chic embellishments here are a far cry from the nearby Acropolis' crumbling remnants, and the hotel's fresh look hits guests from the get-go. The lobby's geometric marble flooring leads to the ground-level eatery with black ceilings and a colorful shape-filled accent wall. The rooftop eatery has indoor seating with archaeological artifacts, a bold black-and-white print, and crisp seating, although its main allure is an outdoor terrace with stunning views of the Acropolis. An abundance of moody colors and polished furnishings hint at the property's status as a Design Hotel. Although undoubtedly upscale, the atmosphere isn't haughty, and a small corporate presence here joins well-heeled leisure travelers.

The hotel is situated along pedestrian-only Dionysiou Areopagitou, which leads to the ancient Acropolis in about five minutes on foot. The New Acropolis Museum is one-minute closer, as is the Acropoli metro (subway). Streets here form Athens' historic Plaka district, and tourist stands compete with a mix of affordable and upscale bars and restaurants. The Temple of Zeus is four minutes away on foot. Concert venue, the Odeon of Herodes Atticus, is six minutes farther, as is vibrant Syntagma Square. Metro rides shorten the 15-minute walks required to reach  Monastiraki and Athens' Greek Parliament. Though immediate streets are traffic-free, taxis are nearby. Ermou shopping district is a 15-minute walk, and designer boutiques at Kolonaki are a 25-minute walk, or shorter metro ride. Athens International Airport is a 40-minute drive, or one hour by public transport.

Minimalist, modern rooms have walnut wood paneling, carpeting in muted grays and blues, earth-toned drapes contrasting crisp white beds, and suspended chrome lighting over circular nightstands. Classic Rooms are 302 square feet (28 square meters), while Deluxe and Superior Rooms are a bit larger. All have smartly furnished balconies, and it's worth upgrading to one with a view of the Acropolis. Classical Greek artwork hangs on the walls, while Toshiyuki Kita chairs in upgraded rooms add futuristic accents. Standard amenities include phones, desks, HD TVs, safes, AC, and minibars. Lower-category rooms lack tea- or coffee-making facilities, although Superiors have Nespresso coffeemakers and sink areas. Suites start at 430 square feet (40 square meters) and have living rooms, plus guaranteed Acropolis views. Monochrome bathrooms done in floor-to-ceiling marble have high-end rainfall showers, upscale Korres toiletries near wood-accented bowl sinks, hairdryers, slippers, and terry robes. Cribs are available. Soundproofing is generally good, but courtyard-facing rooms guarantee silence.

The bright, ground-level Brasserie Modern serves free a la carte breakfasts, where guests are encouraged to order everything from Eggs Benedict and homemade granolas, to Greek yogurt and French toast. Fresh-squeezed juices, tea, and coffee are also included. Its lunch menu offers healthy Mediterranean fare. A patio is available here, though the better outdoor seating option is found on the seventh-floor roof terrace. Sensational views accompany fine dining at the spot's Sense Bar & Restaurant, where bistronomique menus are refined, though unsurprisingly pricey. Advance booking is recommended, particularly for Acropolis-facing terrace tables. Given the prime location and sensational rooftop views, guests generally don't mind not having a pool, though there's also no spa. The self-proclaimed "mini gym" is indeed tiny, with just a handful of Technogym cardio and weight-training machines. Note, there are no free weights. The moody, mostly black meeting room can hold 20 people, and equipment is provided. Discounts for nearby parking lots are available, but most guests are without vehicles. Wi-Fi is free throughout.