20 evaluations from our group leaders & tour directors (2025–2026)
Group leaders: A+ (10 recent)Tour directors: A (10 recent)
What our travelers say
Group leaders consistently point to the same two things at the Royal Olympic: the location and that 7th-floor breakfast. Walking distance to the Plaka, Acropolis Hill, and the gardens comes up again and again, along with easy access to restaurants and a convenience store nearby — one tour director simply called it unbeatable. The breakfast room draws real praise too, with several travelers describing sunrise views of the Parthenon and the Temple of Zeus that made an impression on students who weren't expecting a hotel meal to be a trip highlight. Staff get repeated credit for being helpful with early departures, late-night check-ins, and last-minute requests like extra pillows or toiletries, and the lobby and common areas — including a library nook and a rooftop terrace — give groups good space to gather before heading out.
A few practical notes are worth setting expectations around. Rooms are clean and reasonably sized but on the dated side in places, and outlets can be limited enough that students end up unplugging a lamp to charge a phone. Temperature control has come up as inconsistent, with some groups finding rooms ran warm. The rooftop dining/bar area is a nice perk but access sometimes requires a purchase, and there's been the occasional small logistical hiccup — a breakfast box overlooked at a 3 a.m. departure, or a picnic breakfast provided a day early — though these read as isolated mix-ups rather than a pattern, and every one of these stays was still rated as excellent overall.
This is a hotel that seems built for group logistics: it's large enough to regularly host congresses and tour groups, has laundry service that group leaders have leaned on mid-trip, and elevators and check-in that move a full busload without drama. That combination — central location, dependable staff, and infrastructure for groups — makes it a solid fit for school and youth programs of real size, especially those built around walking Athens' historic core. Smaller or more boutique-minded groups may find it a bit more institutional than intimate, but for a program prioritizing location and ease of movement over room extras, it delivers.
What group leaders & tour directors say
ExcellentGroup Leader· March 2026· YMH
“The grand, majestic lobby left the group in awe, and the staff was instantly welcoming. The Temple of Zeus was visible from select rooms, with the Plaka District and Acropolis Hill within walking distance. The 7th-floor breakfast offered panoramic views of Athens, including the Parthenon, and on the second morning the sunrise over the hill was breathtaking. Exceptional variety ensured everyone found plenty to enjoy.”
ExcellentGroup Leader· June 2026· GRES
“Fantastic location, walkable to restaurants, ice cream, a convenience store, the gardens, and the Parthenon. Breakfast had a gorgeous view that impressed our group. Check-in was easy, rooms were clean, and the front desk offered extra pillows and toiletries on request.”
ExcellentGroup Leader· March 2026· CLAD
“Check-in was smooth, elevators worked, and the lobby offered great gathering spaces including a library area. Breakfast had excellent variety. The location is walkable and bus-friendly. Rooftop terrace requires a purchase to access. Room outlets were limited—students had to unplug lamps to charge devices.”
ExcellentGroup Leader· March 2026· CLAE
“Check-in was smooth for a late-night arrival, and the staff remained consistently helpful throughout. The rooftop dining area was a highlight, offering excellent views and a generous breakfast. Rooms are somewhat dated with limited outlets but are clean and functional. The central location and welcoming atmosphere made this a great fit.”
ExcellentTour Director· June 2026· YCKS
“Great location with spacious rooms, a pool, and beautifully maintained common areas. Breakfast on the 7th floor was a highlight, offering stunning views of the Acropolis and Temple of Zeus. Minor miscommunication led to picnic breakfasts being provided a day earlier than planned.”
ExcellentGroup Leader· April 2026· GREP
“The hotel was beautiful with clean, decent-sized rooms. Temperature control was an issue, as many guests found the rooms too warm. Beds were separate but closely positioned. Breakfast was great and accommodated early departures well.”
