If you're Athens' bound, just two words: STAY HERE! This is the second time I have stayed at one of Ralou's Athens' properties and it is everything an Airbnb should be.
A beautiful one-bedroom apartment, stylishly and imaginatively decorated, as described, with well-equipped kitchen and small basement courtyard, Take a Walk on the Acropolis side is perfectly situated just 10 minutes from the Parthenon and new Acropolis Museum (incidentally an absolute gem that really brings the Ancient Greeks to life with a nice roof terrace and restaurant serving above-average food) and other major sites. It is also within a stone's throw (by foot or metro) of Plaka, Monastiraki, the National Gardens and a host of other must-see areas plus a wide selection of bars and restaurants with menus ranging from the simple and rustic to sophisticated fine dining.
The apartment itself is well equipped with everything needed for preparing a simple meal. Right opposite is a well-stocked mini-market and the famous bakery, which tempts with delicious aromas of baking bread and spices as you walk back late at night.
Ralou is a wonderful host. Warm, friendly and approachable, she made everything really easy and smooth from organising our taxi from the airport and to the bus station for our onward journey, to giving us thoughtful advice and information about where to go and what to see. Her suggestions for places to eat and drink were spot on and it was clear that she has actually been to those she recommends. We loved Vrettos, a colourful wine bar offering a wide selection of Greek wines chosen according to your taste by the owner. For food Melilotos a family restaurant offering unusual takes on traditional dishes (try the delicious aubergine dip, beetroot salad and carrot pies) in Monastiraki was the perfect choice.
The little personal touches, from a jar containing 'cookies of the month' - ours were cinnamon and honey sprinkled with sesame seeds - to recommendations for things to do and places to see, the wide selection of guidebooks and wall map with all her recommended restaurants flagged up so you can see exactly where you're going - make this a real home from home.
We had a wonderful time here. In fact two days weren't enough. If you're wondering where to stay in Athens, ponder no more. Book this: I can guarantee you won't be disappointed.