Mona Athens

The Greek capital is completely littered with history, from the layers and layers of graffiti splayed over the walls to the breathtakingly grand Acropolis which towers over the streets like a lofty old antique. 

And while the city’s ancient ruins are one of the major reasons people flock to Athens in such numbers, it’s also a place which knows a thing or two about regeneration.

Take Mona Athens, for example. This chic four-year-old hotel has bloomed inside the walls of a former textile factory, and though the exposed pipes, bare plaster and heavy-handed presence of concrete nod to its former incarnation, it’s also reached an established status of one of the coolest places to stay in the city. 

What are the rooms like at Mona Athens?

The walls in our Velvet Suite have been left intentionally unpainted, copper pipes confidently protrude out of the corners, and the whole space features very little colour other than the raw materials which have been used. The floor is cold and hard (which is pleasing on our bare feet after traipsing around sightseeing in temperatures upwards of 30 degrees), so the designers’ commitment to the reimagined former-factory aesthetic can only be commended. 

But, does all this style come at the expense of substance? Well, kinda. There are still luxurious details like silky bedding, a swish coffee machine, expensive kimono-style robes, powerful air-con and deliciously floral-scented toiletries. The suite is also warmly lit with glowing orange bulbs, and it’s easy to get in touch with reception if you need anything – just send them a message from the in-room iPad. 

However, the ensuite is where things get a bit awkward. Separated not by walls but droopy translucent curtains from the bedroom area, the setup makes for painfully intimate use of the loo and bath. A note left in the room explains this relates to the Mona’s general ethos of ‘surrender’, and while that might be romantic to some, it was leant more towards excruciating for two friends. 

There also isn’t a freestanding shower, and a lack of proper curtain meant the floor became ice-rink like after a bath. 

What are the facilities like at Mona Athens?

The ‘living room’ and ‘underground’ are two common spaces at Mona – the former is where you’ll enjoy breakfast; the latter is a subterranean venue space that hosts gigs, exhibitions, and what the website describes as ‘alluring private affairs’. 

The standout, though, is the rooftop. Get the lift up to the top floor and follow the spiralling steps, and you’ll reach the terrace and, more crucially, the hotel’s lovely Acropolis views. 

Outside, the terrace is littered with distressed-on-purpose furniture and funky plants and (though it could use some fairy lights) it’s a really sweet spot for a pre-dinner drink. Inside, it’s the honesty bar – help yourself to a selection of local beers, wine, gin and soft drinks as well as a couple of snack options from which you can help yourself – just note down whatever you take and place your paper in the box. It’s a delightful alternative to nearby rooftop bars which often require booking weeks in advance and come with eyewatering minimum spends. 

What are the best things to eat and drink at Mona Athens?

The ‘living room’ has been filled with antique-style furniture, but there are only large tables available, so you might well end up sharing with other guests. Breakfast here is a la carte, and despite what the very open kitchen might imply, it follows a formal table service set up, so you should wait to have your order taken. 

The coffee is delicious – order a freddo cappuccino – and the artisanal breakfast is definitely the way to go. Choose your mezze options (my favourites were the labneh, the tomato jam and the candied eggplant with feta) and your eggs (the sage omelette was mouthwatering), and enjoy.

What’s the neighbourhood like around Mona Athens?

It’s the place to be. Psyri (which you might also see spilt as Psirri) is one of the trendiest spots in Athens. Kosta Souvlaki, 72H Bakery, Wine is Fine and Isandsia are all within walking distance, as is the Acropolis (just 15 minutes away on foot), and Philopappos Hill (my favourite viewpoint, which takes 25 minutes). 

You’re also in a good spot for walking to charming but more tourist-trap filled Plaka, as well as the coolest neighbourhood in Europe recently crowned by Time Out, Neos Kosmos. 

DETAILS 

Address: Kakourgodikiou 4, Athina 105 54, Greece

Price: From €170 per night

Closest transport: Monastiraki metro station, which is served by lines 1 and 3, is a three-minute walk from the hotel. 

Book: now via Booking.com

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