Athens, GreeceMonastiraki
Esse Athens
Minimalist Plaka boutique
Minimalist Plaka boutique
The boutique brings clean 1970s-inspired lines to ancient Plaka, with quiet rooms and an open rooftop terrace facing the Acropolis.
What it’s good at
What they say
Michelin Selected
Michelin
Standing in sleek contrast with its surroundings — Plaka is the Greek capital’s most historic district... — is Esse Athens, a design-forward boutique hotel.
Right in the middle
Well-located: walkable to some things, a short ride to more.
The 16th-century Benizelos Mansion stands directly across the street, and the Metropolitan Cathedral is a short walk away.
The rooms
Rooms have built-in window seats and hand-tiled showers. Select suites add private verandas with open-air hot tubs facing the Acropolis.
At the table
Taya's Smile sits next door, serving Greek breakfast along leather banquettes before transitioning to an all-day bistro.
Athens
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Our shorthand
How we rate hotels.
The medals
Gold
Extremely rare. Sets the global standard.
Silver
Brilliant execution. And we’re picky.
Bronze
They did this well. You’ll notice.
Listed
A defining trait. Makes the hotel what it is.
The eight vibes
Design
Built around a vision. Even the door handles have a designer.
Luxe
Cared for at every turn. The bath is drawn before you ask.
Local
It could only be here. You wake up knowing where you are.
Social
Where the city goes out. The bar is full and the night is young.
Heritage
A building with a story. Once a palace, a monastery, a station.
Wellness
You leave feeling new. Rest, sweat, soak and sleep like a stone.
Classic
The city grew up with it. Same rituals, same regulars, same bar.
Resort
A world of its own. Something to do from breakfast to nightcap.
The scene
Lively
Where things happen: restaurants, shops, people.
Central
Well-located: walkable to some things, a short ride to more.
Quiet
Away from the crowds. Getting around takes intention.
Secluded
A place apart: the property is the destination.