Fresh Hotel
The lobby at Fresh
After a 20 hour flight, walking into Fresh Hotel, we were met with the kind of welcome that makes all the difference. The staff here are just lovely, so warm and friendly, you instantly feel at home. And we got so lucky, our rooms were ready when we arrived, even though it was only 8:30 am. Straight in, quick shower, fresh clothes and we were off, ready to see Athens.
The beautiful handmade plates adorning the lobby
Designed by Paola Navone’s OTTO STUDIO, the interiors are a mix of modern, Mediterranean and urban. Its design is contemporary with a touch of traditional Greek. The foyer is a amazing, with Aegean blue walls, crisp white details and bold pops of orange. The handcrafted elements like macramé installations (which feel like a nod to grandma’s crochet doilies), hand-painted plates and vintage-style glass pendants, add an extra layer of wow!
The hotel itself is split into two styles. One half remains in its original design, nice but unchanged, while the other half is completely new. We had the chance to experience both and let’s just say, once we moved into the Chill Room with an outdoor shower, there was no going back.
The minimal yet lux bed
Our Chill Room was just perfect. Sunny, spacious with a wraparound veranda, we had views over the buzzing market streets below (Fresh Hotel is just a short walk from Varvakios Market, a must-visit for food lovers) and on the other side, the Acropolis in all its breath-taking glory.
The room itself is stylish and thoughtfully designed, featuring soft and functional furniture, crisp fabrics, stunning pendant lights and loads of marble. It’s that perfect balance of sleek, modern and still warm with character.
The marble bathroom was huge and most importantly, there was a separate toilet (which, if you’ve traveled through Europe, you’ll know is rare and absolutely essential when sharing a room).
The spacious bathroom
One of the best features of Fresh Hotel is the rooftop pool and bar. All though the pool is not large, it is still a welcome relief from the Athens heat. There are not many hotels in Athens in this price point that have a pool. And the bar is great, solid cocktails and great views of Athens.
As a designer, I’m always looking for inspiration and this place really delivered. The combination of handcrafted elements, natural materials and bold-but-balanced colour palettes made it feel uniquely Greek yet completely fresh (no pun intended!). You can tell every detail has been considered, from the Korres amenities in the bathroom to the custom furnishings.
If you love being in the thick of Athens, this location is perfect. So close to everything, Monastiraki’s buzzing market district, tavernas, bars and endless shops all within reach.
Would I stay here again? In a heartbeat.