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Last updated: 27 October, 2022
Expert travel writer: John Malathronas

Every visiting VIP since 1874 has stayed at this neoclassical landmark opposite the Parliament. The opulent period interiors remain undiminished – from the Beaux-Arts lobby to the moodily-lit cigar bar everything oozes opulence.

Gracious staff glide through the gleaming interiors, tending to the whims of diplomats, celebrities, and CEOs. The small rooftop pool and bar are the height of discreet chic in the heat of summer, while the basement spa, with its marble-lined pool and hamam, is a treat in winter.

Without a doubt, this is the classiest address in the capital, and bang in the heart of town.

Surrounding area

The GB occupies a corner of central Syntagma Square, a bustling hub of activity opposite the Parliament (where you can watch the changing of the guard) and the National Gardens.

Lined with cafes, banks and office blocks, Syntagma Square constantly throngs with locals and tourists alike. The Metro is literally on the doorstep and it’s a short walk to the boutiques of Kolonaki, the souvenir shops of Plaka, and the Acropolis.

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Key facilities

Airport transfers: Not available
Beach: None
Fitness centre
Fitness classes
Golf course
Hot tub
Kids club
Parking
: Nearby *
Pool (adults only)
Pool (indoor)
Pool (outdoor)
Pool (kids)
Spa
Tennis courts
WiFi: Free
Yoga

Food & drink

All inclusive
Kids menu
Restaurant on-site
Self catering
*
Additional charge

Room types

Apartments
Bedrooms
Cabins
Suites
Tents
Villas
Yurts

Room facilities

Air conditioning
Flat screen TV
Jacuzzi (private)
Pool (private)
Tea & coffee making facilities
WiFi

Bedding options

2+ bedrooms
3+ beds
Connecting rooms
Rollaway/sofa bed

Bucket list experiences our writer says you must do in this destination, closest first

Plaka

Athens, Central Greece, Greece[0.6 miles]

The heart of old Athens, Plaka has an authentic charm with winding lanes, shady squares and atmospheric Byzantine churches.

Best for ages: Any | Free

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Overview >

The Acropolis

Athens, Central Greece, Greece[1 miles]

This dazzling ancient citadel, perched on a hilltop rising above the city, houses some of the most impressive ancient buildings in the world. The jewel in the crown is the Pantheon, a 2,500-year-old temple dating back to 438 BC.

Best for ages: 7+ | £9

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Overview >

Acropolis Museum

Athens, Central Greece, Greece[1 miles]

A jaw-dropping array of antiquities – all the Acropolis’ treasures – in one very modern museum designed by starchitect Bernard Tschumi.

Best for ages: 15+ | £4

Grand Promenade

Athens, Central Greece, Greece[1.4 miles]

A unique and extraordinary 3km pedestrian promenade peppered with world-class antiquities – triumphant arches, ancient amphitheatres, Greek temples, and ‘Socrates’ Prison’.

Best for ages: 13+ | Free | 3 kilometres

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Overview >

Other worthwhile experiences in this destination if you have the time or the interest, closest first

The exterior of the Hellenic Parliament building on Syntagma Square
Experience

Syntagma Square

Athens, Central Greece, Greece[0.1 miles]

Greece’s busiest square and scene of political demos, made famous by the world’s media during the Euro crisis. This is the frenetic, traffic-filled epicentre of Athens.

Best for ages: 18+ | Free

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Overview >
People watching a film on an outdoor screen
Experience

Cine Paris

Athens, Central Greece, Greece[0.6 miles]

On Kydathinaion Square, Cine Paris is one of the loveliest outdoor cinemas in Athens. If the film disappoints, you can just gaze at the Parthenon under the moonlight. Open May to October.

Best for ages: 10+ | £7 | 2 hours

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Overview >
Patrons of Brettos bar smile at the camera. The bar behind them is lined with rows of multicoloured bottles up to the ceiling
Experience

Brettos

Athens, Central Greece, Greece[0.6 miles]

Pop into Brettos, the oldest distillery in Athens, for a shot of ouzo or mastic liqueur. The cosy interior, lined with multi-coloured bottles and barrels, dates from 1909.

Best for ages: 18+ | Free

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Overview >
Pottery on exhibit in the museum
Experience

Goulandris Museum of Cycladic Art

Athens, Central Greece, Greece[0.7 miles]

The fascinating 5,000-year-old Cycladic Art figurines, which have influenced artists from Giacometti to Ai Weiwei, are guaranteed to surprise and delight even the most seasoned of culture vultures.

Best for ages: 18+ | £6

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Overview >

Destination guides including or relevant to this place to stay

Athens

Central Greece, Greece

Antiquities galore, contemporary culture, scintillating nightlife and fantastic food: there’s something for everyone in Greece’s cosmopolitan capital that’s continuously reinventing itself.

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Overview >