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Convenience is rarely this stylish. Not only is Okupa situated firmly within Athens’ coolest neighbourhood Psyrri, it’s got a solid restaurant, a welcoming co-working space, and rooftop pool that comes with a view of Greece’s most legendary ruin, the Acropolis. A relative newcomer, Okupa opened in 2024, but its bones are ancient – as you enter, look down via a glass walkway to see the 2,500-year-old tomb of Lady Melenissis. Inside, there’s a simple but stylish midcentury design aesthetic and a variety of rooms for different budgets, as well as regular events for guests and locals, such as sound bath sessions, yoga classes and (fun) seminars. The onsite listening bar is packed with the founders’ impressive vinyl collection and hosts sets from acclaimed global DJs.
What are the rooms like at Okupa?
There are 32 rooms across the hotel, with 1960s-inspired terrazzo floors, clean lines and our room has all your basic amenities (coffee, teas, a kettle and a hairdryer, shampoo and conditioner). Ours also has a decent-sized terrace with a table and – if you stand up – a decent view of the Acropolis. If you’ve a little less to spend, you can go dorm-style, with four and six bunk hotel style rooms. A friend had the honour of staying in one and said it was a little warm and claustrophobic, but the price (which starts at around £26 a night) is pretty hard to beat considering you get access to the rest of the hotel, pool included. Heck, you might even make some new friends. You can also book a private dorm if you’re travelling with a large group of pals. Rooms unlock with a WhatsApp phone key, so you don’t have to worry about losing a key (just your phone).
What are the facilities like at Okupa?
We’ve mentioned the pool, right? The rooftop swimming spot isn’t quite large enough to actually get your laps in, but it’s a gorgeous little space for lazing about, with beanbag loungers and shady tables for a day spent doing nothing while looking at the city skyline. If you’re mixing business with pleasure, then Okupa’s spacious co-working space is a godsend, a breezy, air-conditioned area and library for you to tap away on your laptop. During our stay, these digital nomads are mainly Brits and Australians. There are also daily events at Okupa to keep you entertained, with workout classes at around 12 euros a go, sound baths and live music in the bar.
What is the food and restaurant like at Okupa?
Okupa’s al fresco restaurant is a winner. They’re well aware that the hotel is surrounded by great Greek tavernas, so they offer something a little different. Okupa’s co-founder Hrag Darakjian – who is Lebanese and has a regular show on acclaimed Palestinian station Radio Alhara – heads up culinary direction, and has injected a Levantine energy into local dishes, so expect lashings of sumac, as well as courgette salads, incredible shrimp croquettes and house-made crisps with tarama. The food here is truly exceptional, and worth checking out even if you’re not staying at the hotel. The cocktails too, are the business.
What’s the area like around Okupa?
You’re right in the middle of the action at Okupa. The Acropolis is just a 20 minute walk away, and even closer is the excellent Diporto, a rustic basement taverna that dates back to 1887 where you’re served a fabulous no-choice menu and a jug of wine for the price of two London pints. Also check out the historic Athens Central Market (Varvakios Agora) where fresh produce and meat and dangles impressively from hooks and the nearby Maria Callas Museum, a fascinating tribute to the operatic diva.
DETAILS
Address: Psaromiligkou 9, Athina 105 53, Greece
Closest transport: Monastiraki station, 10 minutes walk
Price: From £26 a night for a shared room