Lonely Planet Review

The Cecil is a spot that stands out for personable service and old-fashioned Greek comfort. On busy Athinas St, it occupies a vintage building of character, with a marble staircase spiralling up around the shaft of the venerable wooden lift.

This part of town is noisy but has plenty of appeal - make sure you explore the side streets around the hotel with their fragrant spice shops. If you don't mind a bit of traffic noise (remember this is Athens; the tranquil islands come later) take a room at the front for the extra light and interest. It's all comfortable, with Persian rugs in the corridors and stylish rooms with all the required amenities. Breakfast is included, and the hotel also has a pretty streetside cafe as well as a roof terrace. By far the nicest rooms in the hotel are 201 and 301, which are triples with beautiful wrought-iron beds and furnishings.