A view of Athens’ mountain-top Acropolis never fails to conjure “oohs” and “aahs” from Greece first-timers, but the spectacle of witnessing the nearly 2,500-year-old ancient ruins feels even more special when taken in from The Dolli—a metropolitan gem that has quickly topped most of the world’s “best of” hotel lists.
Teeming with palpable, yet sometimes understated opulence in its generally neutral decor, a stay begins with an untraditional check-in experience featuring a welcome dessert table with local wine, spirits, teas, and gourmet pastries. After the sweet start, guests can relax on boucle-clad furniture surrounded by original artwork from Pablo Picasso and Jean Cocteau, as well as a plethora of 18th-century antiques.
Rooms and suites are serene and sun-drenched, fitted with sheer drapes, muted fabrics, herringbone wood floors, and marble bathrooms with walk-in rain showers. An extension of these contemporary accommodations can be found within the hotel itself with quirky art pieces as grandiose as sculptures and paintings and as subtle as sconces and bookends.
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Venture out and take advantage of one of the property’s many curated experiences, including trips to museums, art markets, and archaeological marvels. Or stay in and cozy up to rays on its iconic rooftop infinity pool and lounge area with unobstructed views of the Parthenon.
Adjacent Dolli·S offers the same jaw-dropping vantage points, as well as cuisine that ranges from inspired sushi rolls and hand-cut pastas to lamb chops and fresh-caught scorpionfish. Afternoon tea, happy hour cocktails, and lighter fare can be found at Le Bar Secret and its adjoining private wine room that can be booked for small soirees and special events. This lobby-level seating nook is also ideal for the business traveler who may need to be plugged in, but prefers a relaxed environment removed from the hustle and bustle of city life.
But perhaps the hotel’s best feature of all is its accommodating and friendly staff, always willing to offer a nearby recommendation at a moment’s notice and going above and beyond to ensure that stays are nothing short of memorable.
Though somewhat camouflaged among Athens’ surplus of concrete facades, the architectural masterpiece brings a luxurious pulse to the heart of the metropolis’s monotone buildings and primeval landmarks. This contrast may seem jarring at first, but The Dolli never fully detracts from the grit and history that makes the capital city so unique and special. Instead, it nods to its past while providing a newfound appreciation of Greece’s evolution by seamlessly incorporating the perks, amenities, and design elements found in modern travel.
Top Takeaways
Location: Athens, Greece
Address: Mitropoleos 49, Athina 105 56, Greece
Rating: Five-star
The Vibe: Muted and sophisticated, yet brimming with pops of color from artwork and floral arrangements, the hotel strikes a balance between tradition and modernity. It also lets its prime location speak for itself with panoramic rooftop views and a short walk to beloved monuments.
Food + Drink: Head up to the roof for drinks and food at Dolli-S with a menu that goes beyond traditional cuisine. For a lighter meal and libations, enjoy Le Bar Secret’s library and bar.
Amenities: Rooftop infinity pool; gym; rooftop restaurant and bar; entrance salon with assorted beverages and pastries; lobby cafe, bar and adjoining private event space
Our Favorite Thing About the Hotel: The iconic rooftop views of The Acropolis are, bar none, some of the best in the city. And while the nightly rate may be steep for many travelers, there is a lack of unpretentiousness that is often found in many high-end hotels.
5 Nearby Attractions: The Acropolis and Parthenon, Odeon of Herodes Atticus, Panathenaic Stadium, Museum of the Ancient Agora, Athens National Garden
Any Personal Neighborhood Recs?: Meander by foot to sample local Greek fare, from mortadella and cheese sandwiches at Guarantee to jarred olives and oils at family-run Delta Morea. There is no shortage of delicious eats in The Classic City, all of which will fuel the inevitably long, but beautiful walks as you take in new sights.
Rooms: 46 luxurious bedrooms, pied à terre, and apartments
Pricing: Rooms start at $558/night
Closest Airport: Eleftherios Venizelos Airport
