The Zillers, Athens

The Zillers is named for its German-born architect and former owner, Ernst Ziller, a pivotal figure in the Athenian neoclassical movement that transformed the cityscape in the late 19th and early 20th centuries. The building has been meticulously restored along the way to its present life as a boutique hotel, and treated with all the reverence it deserves, and then some. Still, not all of its best attributes are contained within its walls — its greatest strength, aided by its central location, might be the impressive front-row views of the Acropolis from Zillers Roof Garden, the hotel’s rooftop terrace restaurant.

Rooms are compact but elegant with high ceilings, parquet floors, writing desks, and marble bathrooms with walk-in rainfall showers. Suites offer Jacuzzis and separate living rooms. While some rooms overlook the internal courtyard, many have large windows with Acropolis views. Between the hotel and the most famous monument in Greece is only the Plaka neighborhood with its many cafés and shops, and many of Athens’ highlights are within walking distance, making it easy to circle back to the Zillers for lunch on the terrace, an afternoon nap, or sunset drinks with a view.