Location: Athens, Attica, Central Greece, Greece, Europe View Map
Accommodations: Apartment, 3 Bedrooms + Attached Unit, 2 Baths (Sleeps 8)
Keywords: Apartment
Romantic Luxury in a Historical Home in the Heart of Ancient Athena.
The Athens Heritage House was designed to offer guests a true home away from home, familiar and comfortable with the same amenities they have at home.
Located on the first floor of a Neo-classical three story building that has undergone a complete gut renovation and partial rebuild. It is absolutely beautiful.
There are a total of three bedrooms and two full baths and one half bath. This historical home has 2 bedrooms off the living room, both with custom made iron beds - one bedroom has a Queen and the other two twins. The bedrooms look out onto the side street lined with orange trees. A third bedroom with en suite full bath is located in the garden studio off of the courtyard.
The street connects into the pedestrian zone that meanders its way into Plaka, Monasteraki, around the Acropolis and up Phillopapou Hill. It is an amazing location! One block over is another pedestrian zone, lined with cafes and restaurants, and around the corner a set of stairs leads you to yet another path. Whether you are a jogger, hiker or just love to walk, this is the place to be for exploring the sites and sounds of the Plaka, Monasteraki and Thisseo.
The kitchen and living room are designed with an open floor plan, which is terrific because it opens on to the house's courtyard, which is secluded from the street and surrounded on all sides by the building. It is full of plants and is a lovely place to enjoy a cup of coffee as you plan your day's activities.
The kitchen has a cooktop, microwave, dishwasher and refrigerator, along with plenty of dishes and cookware. There is also a full-size washer and dryer (yes, a clothes dryer - why spend your holiday waiting for your clothes to dry!).
The kitchen and living room open up onto the private courtyard garden, where the cozy garden studio is located. This third bedroom with en suite bath and kitchenette is the perfect escape for harried parents of teens at the end of the day!
The apartment also has high speed internet and free unlimited international long distance phone service to the US, Canada, Australia, China and several EU countries!
Vacation Rental Features
- Amenities
- Air Conditioning : Full air conditioned, all rooms.
- Linens Provided
- Washer
- Dryer : Don't spend your holiday waiting for your clothes to dry!
- Beds
- Queen Bed (2)
- Twin/Single Bed (4)
- Crib : Our family friendly vacation rental home offers a crib and high chair for our littlest guests!
- Entertainment
- Cable/Satellite TV
- DVD
- Video Library
- CD Player
- Stereo System
- Music Library
- Kitchen
- Full Kitchen
- Cooking Utensils Provided
- Refrigerator
- Dishwasher
- Microwave
- Catering Available : Ask about our Greek fook tours and cooking classes!
- Outdoor Features
- Deck/Patio
- Communications
- Telephone
- Free Long Distance : We offer free unlimited phone calls to the US, Canada, Australia, New Zealand and many EU countries
- Cell Phone
- Computer : Travel lighter and use the laptop we provide.
- Broadband Internet
- WiFi (Wireless Internet) : Bring your laptop, iPhone, smartphone or tablet and enjoy unlimited high speed internet.
- Suitability
- No Pets Allowed
- Kid Friendly
- Minimum Age Limit for Renters
- Smoking Not Allowed
- Activities
- Shopping
- Health/Beauty Spa
- Antiquing
- Live Theatre
- Hiking
- Restaurants
- Fitness Center/Gym
- Cinemas/Movie Theaters
- Museums
- Other Activities
- Acropolis, Parthenon, Ancient Agora, Plaka, Ancient Keramikos, Gazi and Technolopolis, Children's Musuem, Syntagma Square, The National Archeological Museum, Plaka and Monasteraki Flea Market.
Rate Details (In Euro)
Rates from €200/night for up to 4 guests.
€50/night for each additional guests.
All bookings subject to a mandatory cleaning fee.
The primary guest must be 25 years or older.
Note: Until confirmed, rates are subject to change without notice.
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Credit Cards Accepted:
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Map & Owner's Profile
Heritage House - Luxury Historical Center 3BR/2.5BA (2 - 8)
Year Purchased: 2007
Why the Owner Chose Athens
I traveled my home country extensively with my family as a child, and was fortunate to have parents who encouraged us to study a second language young. While my language of choice as a child was French, my culture of choice was Greek - My earliest jobs were always in Chicago's Greek diners, my university days filled with hours playing backgammon in the cafeteria with my Greek friends, and my Eurail passes always started and ended my European backpacking holidays in Greece. So no one was surprised when I met Basil, a romantic writer but practicing translator and linguist, born and bred in Athens, but transplanted to Chicago, fell in love, and married him.
While our life in Chicago was full, rehabbing a warehouse we purchased to house ourselves, our son and our growing Greek translation agency, I longed to plant some roots for our family in Basil's hometown. A small studio overlooking Mount Lykavittos was to be our Athens crash pad, but thanks to what seemed then an unfortunate turn of events, our home in Athens ended up being larger than we had planned, offering it as a short term furnished rental seemed the logical way to afford it. Little did we realize that it would become so popular we'd be sleeping on friend's couches rather than in our own Athens home!
Tired of being homeless in Athens, we purchased a second place directly adjacent to our Athens First. In 2006 we completed the renovations of three additional short term furnished rentals. As I said early on, this is the greatest accidental business one could imagine, and I love sharing my adopted city with visitors. Our guests repeatedly thank us for the little extras that often mean so much when you are planning what is often a once in a lifetime trip.
The Unique Benefits at this Apartment
As an ex-pat in Athens, I know the wonderful off the beaten path places that can make a holiday special, and I also know how to stay on the tourist path without feeling like you are being herded along with the crowds. Feel free to email me with your questions as you plan your trip to Athens - just one of the little extras guests of Greek Vacation Rentals will find when they share our homes in Athens.
Owner's Map of Athens
Wow, who would have thought when I told my husband I wanted to buy a little pied-a-terre in his hometown, Athens, Greece, that I'd end up with the greatest accidental career of my life?
Born and raised in Chicago, my love for travel was evident early on. Perhaps it was my arrival in the world, early one December morning, way quicker than my siblings had, in fact so quick we were still enroute to the hospital, and I still hold the title of youngest patient ever admitted to that north suburban hospital! (And thus, as a Sagittarius, characteristically smitten with wunderlust).
Property Photos
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- All just steps from the Ancient Agora and the Acropolis - Athens, Greece Apartment
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- Charming and romantic luxury in the heart of the historical center - Athens, Greece Apartment
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- Romantic hideaway in the heart of city, perfect for honeymooners ... - Athens, Greece Apartment
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- ... and also for families
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- Modern conveniences ....
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- ... and traditional elegance
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- ... to the convenience of your own private clothes washer and clothes dryer
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- The courtyard garden studio sleeps 2 with a private full bath
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- Dine al fresco in the garden
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- Courtyard garden suite with private bath
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- Kitchenette in the garden suite
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- Courtyard garden studio suite
Traveler Reviews (104)
Athens penthouse
Guest: Hskol
(NY, Ny)
Date of Stay: 03/01/07
Review Submitted: 11/03/07
My family stayed in this lovely penthouse in the spring. We could not have felt more at home anywhere - the kitchen had everything one could want - full size appliances and a good supply of spices, etc. in the cabinets - coffeemaker, even a toaster. We loved having coffee in the morning on the great veranda, and at night the terrace was the perfect place for a nightcap overlooking the Acropolis. The beds were the most comfortable we have experienced in Greece, with plenty of pillows and blankets, although for most of our stay only a light blanket was needed (the apartment was heated, but we never needed the heat). The apartment itself would have been perfect, but the owner, Carole, is by far the best conceirge we have ever encountered in all of our travels. She understood exactly what we wanted, and provided us with a great map for our do it ourselves trip. From day trips to little tavernas we never would have found, to meals that cost half of what we saw offered in the touristed Plaka area - she was really terrific. The apartment actually looks even better than the photos! You won't go wrong staying here - we actually stayed twice!
Recommended for:
A Perfect Vacation Getaway
Guest: Doris
(Kurash)
Date of Stay: 08/04/11
Review Submitted: 01/02/12
The Heritage House was spotless. A warm greeting, and a thoughtful goodie basket welcomed us to the apartment. The Heritage House is in a very convenient location - a 5 minute walk to restaurants, nightlife and the metro and a 10 minute walk to the Acropolis. Carol was a wonderful host. She helped us organize transportation to and from the apartment, a full day private tour of the Acropolis with Popi that our entire family voted as the highlight of our vacation, and a sunset tour to the Temple of Poseidon.
Recommended for:Girls getaway, families with teenagers, tourists without a car, romantic getaway, adventure seekers, sightseeing, age 55+.
Fantastic Condo!
Guest: US travelers
(Midwest US)
Date of Stay: 05/08/10
Review Submitted: 11/06/11
Our group stayed in the condo in the May of 2010. Every thing about it was superior: the location, furnishings. the helpful owners, all at a very reasonable cost . Eating on the very large rooftop balcony at night, looking at the Acropolis is amazing. I am very picky about where we stay when we travel and I would recommend this to the most particular of travelers. You will be so happy you chose this condo.
Recommended for:Families with teenagers, tourists without a car, families with young children, sightseeing, age 55+.
Perfect in every way
Guest: Peter 3
(Swarthmore, PA)
Date of Stay: 08/31/11
Review Submitted: 09/03/11
Just returned from a trip to Greece with friends and children that included 7 adults and 7 children aged 13 - 8. We spent a couple days in Athens on the tail end of a 12 day trip. Carole and Basil's Pagrati A, B and C apartments were absolutely spectacular - clean, well appointed, centrally located. Everyone, kids and adults alike, loved the venue. Plenty of room for all of us to enjoy the sites or relax, and all connected together so we could use it as all one large space. The space and view from the rooftop deck was special, with a perfect view of the Acropolis/Parthenon and Lykavitos Hill. The neighborhood had everything you could want - coffee shops, restaurants, shops, takeout, etc. The only thing I wish we did differently is book a couple extra days to explore more of Athens! There will be a next time for us in Athens, and when that time comes, Carole and Basil will be the first place we look to find accommodations. Thanks so much, Carole and Basil!!!!
Recommended for:Tourists without a car, families with young children, sightseeing.
Home Away From Home!
Guest: Susan
(Connecticut)
Date of Stay: 06/02/11
Review Submitted: 07/01/11
I would return to this condo in Pagrati today if I could!! The spaceious penthouse is an IKEA dream with new appliances, electronics, and air conditioning!! We had 7 in our group and there was more than enough room for everyone to relax. The owners thoughtfully include a welcome basket, maps, bathroom essentials, and manuals for all the appliances that make the visit comfortable and restful after a long (and usually very hot) day of sightseeing in Greece. It was great to come home at night and have food delivered rather than going out again, or relax on the terrace enjoying local wine and mezes purchased in the neighborhood shops. I really appreciated being able to do laundry in the condo as well. The property was immaculately clean and the building is quiet. The beds are incredibly comfortable and the showers are like being in a spa! I know that I will be contacting Carole again for my next trip to Greece. She is very responsive and knowledgeable and can also assist in other parts of trip planning around Athens.
Recommended for:Girls getaway, families with teenagers, tourists without a car, families with young children, sightseeing, age 55+.
Excellent stay!
Guest: Happy Travelers
(Brazil)
Date of Stay: 01/14/11
Review Submitted: 01/16/11
This lovely and well-appointed penthouse apartment is everything the description promises, and MORE!!! A traveler's every need is anticipated and provided for. The owners' personal attention further enhanced our stay. We would love to return and we would HIGHLY recommend these accommodations to family and friends.
Recommended for:Girls getaway, families with teenagers, tourists without a car, romantic getaway, adventure seekers, families with young children, sightseeing.
A GLORIOUS VACATION HAD BY ALL!!!!
Guest: Bj, Ron & Ashlie
(Massachusetts, USA)
Date of Stay: 06/24/10
Review Submitted: 07/14/10
Our luck started when we could snatch our daughter away from work for a couple of weeks. Our 1st week was spent in Santorini and our last 7 nights at the "Athens First Luxury Duplex". Off to a great start - Ioannis was waiting for us at the airport and he was a welcome sight. Very comfortable and informative ride. We were a bit early- but , No problem! We were able to meet Vera ( I hope I got that right) who had the place sparkling!!! Since there were only 3 of us we took such pleasure in all the space we had. Furnishings were smart and sleek but also comfortable. I adored dropping into one of the black lounge chairs at the end of each FULL day of sightseeing. Two balconies and a rooftop terrace was a huge treat! We took Carole's advice and spent first and 4th night at O Kostas - purley fantastic!! Best meals we had in Athens. Now I want to get onto Ioannis - What can we say? He helped make our trip oh-so memorable. From the first day at the airport, our day outings and then back to the airport he was our "ofilasmu"!! We went to Sounion and saw the sunset but prior we stopped at a great restaurant where we enjoyed a wonderful and reasonable dinner at the waters edge. Another day spent going to Delphi. Ioannis brought a DVD and CD that he played en route which was all about Delphi and the history. The man is brilliant! Once again we were brought to a fine eatery where we sat on the balcony with unbelievable views of the valley below and had a great lunch. On both occasions Ioannis took pictures of the 3 of us which was much appreciated.In addition, Ioannis turned us on to Stavros Melissinos where we all bought sandals and also some for friends back home who LOVED them. Many days we walked to Imittou and would hail a cab which proved no problem at all. We felt the prices very fair and never spent more that 4(eu?) for a ride. Visted as many sights as possible. Spent one night riding the funicular and had dinner at Orizontes. Not as pricey as I would have imagined, food very good and service was impeccable not to mention our view was fantastic. This was a magical night. At the end of the vacation we were left with great memories but also knowing that in 7 days we just saw the tip of the iceberg!!! What a fabulous city! Only one recommendation to visitors - Please tip generously for such great service and kindnesses. Athens and the Greek people we met along the way "ROCK"!!!
Recommended for:Girls getaway, families with teenagers, tourists without a car, adventure seekers, families with young children, sightseeing, age 55+.
How do you say "An Ideal Rental" in Greek?
Guest: Alison & Frederick
(Minneapolis, MN)
Date of Stay: 05/12/10
Review Submitted: 06/04/10
Long before we arrived in Greece, Carole made us feel welcome. Thanks to her generous emails and extensive preparatory notes (adapted to each apartment), we had a good idea of what to expect. Then came the big surprise: our actual experience turned out even BETTER than expected. If you have read the descriptions of Carole's five apartments on VRBO, and thought to yourself, "They sound too good to be true," think again. The Heritage House apartment was exactly as described at VRBO, but its location still astonished us. The green Hill of the Pnyx was our "back yard." The green Agora site was our "front yard." We walked from the apartment to the Acropolis and to the new Acropolis Museum on a pedestrian street. We spent three days in Athens before encountering car traffic! Both the facade and the interior of Heritage House are exceptionally attractive. The owners, even more so. Babis and Xenia know better than most owners how to be welcoming and helpful, and also how to respect your privacy. We enjoyed some lively conversations and some good advice---but not one intrusion. Note that although the great classical sites are very close, the little necessities of life sit even closer: grocery store; bakery; pharmacy; ATM; etc. You are also comfortably near to the Thissio Metro station and to numerous bus lines. Restaurants and cafes are also present in abundance, but we rarely visited them, as it was so very pleasant to enjoy a meal or a drink on our own little open-air "terrace" above the back garden. We have been to Greece multiple times, but we had no idea that living in Athens could be so agreeable and peaceful and green. Did I mention the great beds; the spacious shower; the excellent wi-fi; the appliances that all work perfectly? Unless you are deeply devoted to hotel-type services, we doubt you could find a better accommodation anywhere in Greece than in one of Carole's splendid apartments.
Recommended for:Families with teenagers, tourists without a car, romantic getaway, families with young children, sightseeing, age 55+.
Home Away from Home
Guest: Wandering Family
(Germany)
Date of Stay: 04/18/10
Review Submitted: 05/30/10
This apartment became our home away from home during the Iceland volcano eruption in April. We made a last-minute reservation and Carole was absolutely fabulous. This place really did feel like home...excellent through and through. All bedrooms and kitchen were great, had plenty of room to spread out, and the balcony was a favorite. Great neighborhood, everything from grocery stores to parks to restaurants to nightspots...you will feel right at home. We did!
Recommended for:Families with teenagers, people with disabilities, tourists without a car, romantic getaway, adventure seekers, families with young children, sightseeing, age 55+.
Guest: Wandering Family
(Germany)
Date of Stay: 05/30/10
Review Submitted: 05/30/10
This apartment became our home away from home during the Iceland volcano eruption in April. We made a last-minute reservation and Carole was absolutely fabulous. This place really did feel like home...excellent through and through. All bedrooms and kitchen were great, had plenty of room to spread out, and the balcony was a favorite. Great neighborhood, everything from grocery stores to parks to restaurants to nightspots...you will feel right at home. We did!
Recommended for:
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Vacation Rentals by Owner Listing #140620
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