A boutique hotel with a large dose of chic, the Athens Retro, blends colorful design and thoughtful considerations for its guests. The hotel is located in Monastiraki at 11 Vissis Street in a neighborhood historically known for its hardware shops and, notably, doorknobs. The mid-twentieth century building designed by Modern Greek architect, Kiprianos Biris, once served as a hardware store and has withstood the test of time. Under the creative vision of architect, Nancy Papazoi, it has been redesigned, incorporating stone, glass color and light. Each of the four levels has a color theme reflected in the design elements Terracotta, Blue, Red, and Green.
Superior double room with balcony- Athens Retro, Greece
Our superior double with a large balcony was on the second-floor Blue Level. The room was spacious enough for our short stay. We appreciated the double sinks, large walk-in shower, quality linens on the comfortable (real) king-size bed and bathrobes and slippers. One of the amenities that caught my attention was the “pillow menu.” I travel with a goose down baby pillow since many European pillows are too hard. Being able to request a specific pillow is special. Rooms have soundproof windows, but higher floors will be quieter as the street is busy at night. Checking the hotel’s website, a one-night refundable room rate for this suite in September is about $289. Rates fluctuate based on the time of the year.
Athens Retro Sky Suite
We took a tour of the fourth-floor Green Level’s Sky Suite which has a private patio and stairway. This is the room to book if it is available. Checking online, a one-night refundable room rate for this suite in September is about $327.
Another interesting element of the Athens Retro is its below ground WWII air-raid shelter that has been converted into a quiet room with a long table and chairs and an artist’s rendition of Da Vinci’s “Last Supper.” The room is a registered historic landmark so there are limits for the time being on what can take place, but time will tell.
Below ground air-raid shelter
The ground floor lobby has open seating for guests to have breakfast and work. This level also offers a wheelchair accessible guest room. The Dolce & Gabbana-designed SMEG refrigerator is stocked with cold beverages and light snacks. There are other D&G elements in the lobby including sofa pillows that I wish were for purchase. While our early morning flight prevented us from having a relaxing breakfast, the staff thoughtfully provided us with To-Go bags with pastries and breads and juice.
We always check Booking.com and the hotel website before making a reservation. Sometimes you can negotiate a better rate booking directly.
Athens Retro Hotel is a five-minute walk from Monastiraki Metro Station and close to both the Monastiraki and Psiri neighborhoods. Both are walking distance to many significant historic sight. The streets and alleys are filled with shops, from vintage flea markets and consignment stores and clothing and jewelry boutiques and many souvenir shops. Nearby on Athinas Street is the Athens Central Market, known as Varvakios Agora. Established in 1886, it is still a working market selling fresh fish, meat, fruits, vegetables and spices. There are plenty of dining options, from street food to restaurants and more coffee and pastry shops that you can count!
Helpful reading:
Exploring Vyssis Street, Athens’ Street of Two Lives – Greece Is
Psiri Athens Neighbourhood Guide For 2026
A Local’s Guide to Psirri | The Official Athens Guide
