Athens ranks 2nd in the top 10 list of European cities that offer value for money for Airbnbs when compared to hotels. This is according to a recent research by financial magazine Moneyzine. The data comes from Airbnb.com and Trivago, which assessed the average cost per night of Airbnbs and hotels from 35 European cities. Athens ranked second on the list, behind only Istanbul in Turkey.
According to the study, Athens has an impressive 49% price drop from a standard hotel fare to an Airbnb. The average Airbnb is 62.13 euros per night, and the average hotel rate is 123 euros per night in the Greek capital. In Istanbul, the only city that tops Athens on the list, Airbnbs are 61% cheaper than hotels. Lisbon, Berlin, and Paris completed the top 5.
Advantages of a Hotel in Greece
Greek Hospitality
Greeks are known for their legendary hospitality, and it is deeply ingrained in hotel culture. Even in ancient times, traders would come a long distance and locals would insist that they stay in the family home so they could treat the guests to home-cooked delicacies.
Free Cancellation
Many hotels, like those on Booking.com, offer rooms that can be cancelled for free. This is not always true for Airbnb’s, where if you cancel, you might not get your money back. Having the flexibility of cancellation can give you peace of mind on your journey.
Transfer to and from Accomodation
Almost all hotels will help you organize a transfer from your airport or ferry to your hotel room. The transfer might happen either with a local transfer company or in the hotel owner’s family car.
Private Beaches
Small beachfront hotels in Greece often have direct beach access and a swimming area. In some places like Halkidiki and Crete, this might mean private access to beach umbrellas with dedicated bar service. Non-guests might have to pay for these spaces, while you would get them free as a guest.
Advantages of an Airbnb in Greece
Bigger Size
Airbnbs can be a lot bigger and can accomodate large groups. If you are traveling with family, this can be ideal because for the same price, you might get 2 bedrooms and additional privacy or a kitchenette instead of just 1 room in a hotel.
Better Price
As we mentioned earlier, in general in Greece, Airbnbs for short-term stays are cheaper than hotels. For larger Airbnbs with multiple rooms, the savings only grow when compared to rates for hotel suites or rooms with kitchenettes and extra space.
Self-Catering
If some people in your group have special diets and you want the ability to cook or have a meal at home, usually Airbnbs in Greece are better set up for this. If you’re lucky, the Airbnb might even have a classic Greek coffee pot or Greek butter cookies in your pantry.
Complete Privacy
Unlike a hotel, where you will surely have neighbors either beside or above you, Airbnbs can be in remote places. In Greece, there are even listings on Airbnb for cave houses, windmills, and fishermans’ huts.
Flexible Check In/Out
Generally speaking, the host of an Airbnb in Greece will let you check in early or check out late, especially if the day before or after does not have a booking. This flexibility of course will depend on the area you are visiting and the specific host’s policy. Especially when trying to catch an afternoon ferry or flight, it is ideal to have flexible checkout time so you don’t need to carry your luggage around town.
Authenticity
Airbnbs in Greece are usually operated by local hosts who can give you insider tips on the area and point you to lesser-known local attractions that you might not find in a guidebook. Compared to a hotel, you will likely have a closer relationship with your host, learning more about their family and work, and perhaps even enjoying a traditional greek coffee together.
Summing it Up
Whether you choose to stay in a hotel or Airbnb in Greece, you can’t go wrong. Hotels will offer top-tier service, free cancellation, and private beach access, while Airbnbs will give you more connection to locals, flexibility for your arrival, and affordable prices. It’s best to decide on your accommodation based on your priorities, travel plans, and budget, so that you can fully enjoy your holiday in Greece.
