Hidden Gem #5: The Semiramis, Athens
An interior at the Semiramis
An interior at the Semiramis
We throw the spotlight on a cool, modern hotel in an ancient city…
When you’re choosing a city break hotel, it’s natural to want to be in the thick of it. Who wants to spend hours of a short getaway trekking to and from the centre of town? With a bit of research, however, checking into a hotel on the periphery could be a wise choice. Our latest Hidden Gem is an affordable design classic in the chic Athenian suburb of Kifissia.
With just 51 rooms, including rooftop suites and poolside villas, the Semiramis is relatively small. It’s designed by Karim Rashid, who’s renowned for his clean style with a distinctive, zesty streak. Lime green balconies light up at night and the lobby’s shot with dashes of cerise and orange. Here’s an impressive, contemporary hotel that doesn’t cost a fortune.
The Semiramis looks great but it offers far more than good form – the hotel features LCD TVs, a generous ‘Maxi’ bar, top-notch service, a pool, nightly DJ, massage, free Wi-Fi and even babysitting on request. The location’s not bad either – it might not be in the centre of town, but it’s in a quiet spot overlooking a park and the Metro whisks you into downtown Athens in around fifty minutes. There’s a great restaurant on site, but you’ll also find a good choice nearby. Kifissia is leafy and cool with a relaxed ambience – this is the perfect place to retreat after a hard day’s sightseeing.
Athens is a must-do city break that’s best visited in autumn to avoid the scorching heat. As well as iconic sights like the Parthenon and traditional tavernas in Plaka, you’ll find all the galleries, museums, shopping and bars that you’d expect from a capital city. It’s a great destination for a stylish stag or hen weekend with and perfect for a quick romantic getaway. The Semiramis is a savvy place to stay and is surprisingly affordable too. We’ve got a great deal through Hays Travel that would make a brilliant Christmas shopping break or original travel idea for something to look forward to as winter draws in…
Depart Gatwick on 12th November and spend three nights bed and breakfast in a superior room at the Semiramis from only £295 each, based on two sharing. This price includes flights, checked-in baggage and accommodation. Other dates and departure airports are available: click here for more information or call Hays on 0800 408 4131. It might not be warm enough to enjoy a dip in the pool (below,) but you’ll have a great weekend in the coolest hotel in town. For a great price and plenty of sunshine, enquire about early booking deals for next spring…
Semiramis pool and terrace
