Away from the peak months of summer, Athens is perfect for a weekend break, particularly since the opening in 2009 of the New Acropolis Museum, £100m worth of dazzling modern architecture crammed with Classical treasures. Athens also excels at the contemporary, as evidenced by the city’s stylish collection of designer hotels. 
Recommended places to stay: Yes! Hotels
Yes! Hotels says
Our four hotels are all situated in Athens. Owned by Dakis Joannou, an eminent collector of modern art, the philosophy of Yes! Hotels is young, enthusiastic and seductive - a finely crafted balance between style and comfort.
The original Yes! Hotel, Semiramis is designer Karim Rashid’s first hotel project and is a fusion of his influence and Dakis Joannou’s dedication to modern art. Located in the leafy suburb of Kifissia, the hotel is in the heart of evolving Athens, surrounded by high-end boutiques, restaurants and cafés. Works from Joannou’s extensive collection, including works by Jeff Koons, Sue Webster and Tim Noble, can be viewed at the Semiramis’ rotating exhibition.
Located in the chic and cosmopolitan neighbourhood of Kolonaki, the Periscope Hotel draws its name from an electric periscope on the roof with a 360° range, which guests can control remotely from the Lounge Bar. Couples can enjoy the hotel’s Penthouse Suite with a private balcony and rooftop Jacuzzi area where they can relax and view the Acropolis lit up each evening across town.
The aptly named Twentyone, situated at 21 Kolokotroni Street, Kifissia and with 21 rooms, is a creative design space with graffitied walls and the renowned ‘21’ bar-restaurant.
Finally, our Kefalari Suites are serviced apartments (11 suites and two superior rooms) set in a 19th century mansion building, individually furnished in Moroccan, Oriental or traditional English styles.
Click here for more about Yes! Hotels and about the Acropolis Museum (entry €5, open 8am to 8pm, Tuesday to Sunday).
