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Close to the gritty Central Market, Fresh brings designer chic to downtown Athens. The 133 rooms have minimalist furniture in vivid oranges, pinks and greens. There is a rooftop café with a small pool.

This vast resort complex spreads out over its own peninsula between Sounio and Vouliagmeni. It encompasses 16 beaches, with a range of seafront suites and lavish villas with their own pools. There is also a host of restaurants and a variety of organized activities.

Besides all the mod cons you’d expect following a total overhaul, this branch of the Grecotel chain is set on a verdant hillside, with spectacular views of the sea and Temple of Poseidon.

Located in a quiet neighbourhood just below the Acropolis, this attractive, modern hotel has comfortable, newly decorated rooms, the pale green and light wood accents of which feel cool and relaxing after a day touring the sights. Other features include internet connections in every room and a flower-filled breakfast atrium.

These comfortable suites and studio apartments are run by Holiday Inn, and offer all the services and amenities of that chain. All have large bathrooms, kitchenettes, and a small office area. The location is a short distance from the centre, which can be quickly reached by bus or cab.

Clean dorm beds and a lively atmosphere. Once again, a somewhat seedy area, but it’s not too far to the centre and it’s close to the train station. Facilities include laundry and pay internet access. Students and backpackers gather at the bar downstairs.

It’s central, cheap and clean, and if that’s all you require then the Attalos is fine. But the rooms are far from suave, their style taking the form of lino, fluorescent lights and dorm-quality furniture. It’s located halfway between the colourful Central Market and the anarchic Monastiraki Flea Market.

German archaeologist Heinrich Schliemann slept here (room No. 3) while excavating Mycenae, and many a classicist has followed in his footsteps. Modern tourists can enjoy clean, quiet, comfortable rooms in addition to the hotel’s historic cachet.

Almost exclusively inhabited by students and backpackers, the Carolina has a perpetual international-party vibe. It’s a fun place to meet people, but can get noisy at night. Current renovations will provide comfortable new beds.

Similar to The Exarcheion in terms of value and the level of facilities, but Hotel Dryades is less central and therefore quieter. It’s also located near several modelling agencies, who frequently use the hotel to put up models.