Zeus Essence Athens Central ║ Rooftop Acropolis Views

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Zeus Essence Athens Central, Former Athens Key Exterior photo

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Key details

About the Hotel

12 Chalkokondili, Athens, 10677

Close to the National Archaeological Museum

Great

8.0

8.7

/10

3.9

4.6

Loved by Zeus Essence Athens Central, Former Athens Key guests

Flawless condition

Rooftop terrace

Helpful staff

Tastefully decorated areas

Quiet rooms

Good city view

"Breakfast on rooftop, bed is very comfortable."

Jan from Germany

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"Breakfast on the terrace is a moment of well-being for all tastes"

Maria from Italy

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"Enjoy the magnificent view from Rooftop Bar Restaurant on the 10th floor and taste pasta penne with beef!!"

Polina L

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Located just 600 metres from the neoclassical National Archaeological Museum, the elegant 5-star Zeus Essence Athens Central, Former Athens Key hotel offers guided tour service to ensure you have an unforgettable travel experience. Along with the use of a fitness centre on site, sports fans are invited to discover Panathenaic Multi-Purpose Stadium, which is nearly a 25-minute walk away.

Location

The smoke-free hotel is 2.2 km from the Mount Lycabettus and steps away from Omonoia underground station. The Zeus Essence Athens Central, Former Athens Key is approximately 10 minutes on foot from Ioulianou bus stop and 400 m from Tres Event Venue.

Also, this Athens hotel is in proximity to the Syntagma guards ceremony, and Monastiraki train station is located only 1.5 km away.

Rooms

Furnished with sound-proofed windows, all rooms are equipped with a flat-screen TV with satellite channels, along with coffee/tea making equipment. Air conditioning are featured for guests' comfort. The air-conditioned bedrooms come with a wardrobe. The private bathrooms with a walk-in shower and a separate toilet also offer hair dryers and a shower cap.

Eat & Drink

An American breakfast is served each morning at the Zeus Essence Athens Central, Former Athens Key. Guests can enjoy time in the rooftop bar. The bar area includes a terrace. You can get a gastronomic experience at Ta Karamanlidika tou Fani which offers Mediterranean cuisine around 5 minutes by car from Zeus Essence Athens Central, Former Athens Key hotel.

Leisure & Business

The accommodation goes the extra mile to provide guests with fitness classes to help them stay fit.

“Ideal for business and solo travelers, its proximity to the metro simplifies getting around. The rooftop bar and restaurant offer panoramic city views; in-room breakfast and modern amenities add comfort. I think this is a solid choice, particularly if you value location and convenience.”

Emily RoseEditor-in-Chief at Luxuryhotels

Location: Very good

7.9/10Review score

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Highlights from guests

DiningEpic Breakfast

Breakfast was amazing. Fresh local honeys, cheeses, and olives. Also, fresh squeezed orange juice every morning.

GeorgeP from Greece

Review on

Room FeaturesTech Savvy

The room was high tech with all the latest modern equipment. Very user-friendly and enhanced our stay.

TechFan from United States

Review on

BedroomSleep Sanctuary

The bed was incredibly comfortable. High-quality linens and a selection of pillows made for perfect sleep.

SleepyTraveller from Australia

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BathroomLuxurious Bath

The bathroom was amazing! Heated floors and a rain shower created a spa-like experience every time.

ShowerLover from Canada

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Select your room type

Zeus Essence Athens Central, Former Athens Key offers a variety of rooms including double rooms, family rooms, and suites with breakfast, free cancelations, and special deals

Deluxe Double Room City View
2 persons
23 sq. feet
1 Double bed
City view
Air conditioning
Balcony
room details
Single Room
2 persons
19 sq. feet
1 Double bed
Air conditioning
Balcony
room details
Deluxe Twin Room City View
2 persons
23 sq. feet
1 King-size bed
City view
Air conditioning
Balcony
room details

Show all rooms

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Check-in/ Check-out

Facilities

Zeus Essence Athens Central, Former Athens Key offers amenities for your comfortable stay and unforgettable experiences

Facilities: Great

8.1/10Review score

General

No smoking on site
Wi-Fi
Safe deposit box
24-hour reception
VIP check-in/ -out
Express check-in/ -out
No pets allowed
Security
Luggage storage
Locker room
Lift
Smoke detectors
Fire extinguishers
Key card access

Sports & Fitness

Fitness centre

Guest Parking

Electric kettle

Services

Paid airport shuttle
Room service
Housekeeping
Car hire
Laundry
Dry cleaning
Tours/Ticket assistance
Welcome drink

Dining

In-room breakfast
Restaurant
Bar/ Lounge area

Children

Babysitting/Child services
Children's buffet

Room features

Air conditioning
Heating
Soundproofed rooms
Terrace
Tea and coffee facilities
Ironing facilities

Bathroom

Free toiletries
Sink

Self-catering

Electric kettle

Media

Flat-screen TV
AM/FM alarm clock

Dining Onsite

At Zeus Essence Athens Central, Former Athens Key, the dining experience reflects a blend of local flavors and vibrant ambiance. Guests can indulge in meals from dawn until dusk, savoring unique culinary offerings in a welcoming atmosphere that invites relaxation and enjoyment.

Restaurant #1
Contemporary Greek
Ambiance
A cozy yet modern space where the essence of Athens comes alive, featuring warm lighting and inviting decor that creates an atmosphere perfect for any occasion.
Key Offerings
Highlights include traditional Greek specialties and innovative dishes crafted with care. Enjoy meals that celebrate local ingredients, paired with an array of thoughtfully curated wines. Brunch options also feature seasonal delights for leisurely afternoons.
Reservation
It is recommended to make reservations to secure a spot.
Open for breakfast, brunch, lunch, and dinner; hours vary.

Location

12 Chalkokondili, Athens, 10677

Explore Athens

Local Highlights

National Archaeological Museum

8 minutes' walk

Home to a vast array of artifacts from ancient Greece, this museum is renowned for its large collection of sculptures and pottery.

Museum of the City of Athens

10 minutes' walk

Showcases the history of Athens from its origins to modern times. Unique for its engaging exhibits and lovely courtyard.

Ancient Agora of Athens

20 minutes' walk

Once the heart of Athenian public life, this site features ruins and a restored temple, important for its historical significance.

Plaka

25 minutes' walk

A charming neighborhood of Athens filled with narrow streets, shops, and traditional tavernas, offering vibrant local culture.

Discover the local attractions near Zeus Essence Athens Central, Former Athens Key

Wander through the nearby landmarks that offer a glimpse into the rich history and culture of Athens near Zeus Essence Athens Central, Former Athens Key.

Great for history enthusiasts eager to view ancient artifacts: National Archaeological Museum

Ideal for gaining insight into Athens' historical development: Museum of the City of Athens

Well suited for architectural appreciation and serene surroundings: Temple of Hephaestus

Perfect for exploring the heart of ancient Athenian life: Ancient Agora of Athens

Best for understanding the significance of ancient Greece: Acropolis Museum

Great for leisurely strolls through charming streets: Plaka

Ideal for lovers of historical engineering and outdoor sites: Tower of the Winds

Best for iconic views and deep historical connections: Parthenon

Well suited for intriguing insights into burial customs: Archaeological site of Kerameikos

Hiking Mount Lycabettus

30 minutes' walk

A thrilling hike offers panoramic views of Athens and is a great way to appreciate the city's skyline and natural beauty.

Relaxation at Lake Beletsi

5 minutes' drive

A serene place ideal for outdoor relaxation. Enjoy picnicking and light strolls by the picturesque lake.

Yoga Classes at Nearby Studios

10 minutes' walk

Multiple studios offering various yoga classes. Great for unwinding after a day of exploring the city.

Kriti

1 minute' walk

Cozy atmosphere serving traditional Greek dishes, renowned for fresh ingredients and warm service. Vegan options available.

Ta Karamanlidika tou Fani

12 minutes' walk

A deli and restaurant that offers delicious cured meats and cheeses, showcasing authentic Greek flavors in a casual setting.

Mezedopoleion Ellinikon

2 minutes' walk

Specializes in meze, small plates perfect for sharing, in a relaxed environment. Vegetarian-friendly options are plentiful.

Discover dining options near Zeus Essence Athens Central, Former Athens Key

Savor the flavors at the nearby restaurants offering diverse dining experiences near Zeus Essence Athens Central, Former Athens Key.

Perfect for enjoying panoramic views with your meal: The Sky Lounge

Ideal for traditional Greek cuisine in a cozy setting: Kriti

Well suited for fresh seafood and local dishes: H Crete

Great for casual dining with popular Greek street food: Erotokritos Souvlaki

Best for a refined dining experience with city views: Restaurant Polis Grand Hotel

Ideal for a relaxed atmosphere and local flavors: Saligaros

Suited for authentic Mediterranean meals in a welcoming ambiance: Geonas Restaurant

Gazi Music Hall

15 minutes' drive

A vibrant venue hosting live music and dance shows, with a lively vibe. Perfect for a night out with friends or partners.

Theatro Technis

20 minutes' walk

Known for its theatrical productions, this space features performances that appeal to diverse audiences including families.

Getting around

City Centre
Athens 6 min · 1700 ft
Airports
Eleftherios Venizelos (ATH) 51 min · 21.1 mi
Train
Victoria Railway Station 10 min · 2700 ft
Underground
Omonia Metro 5 min · 1400 ft

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Property information and rules

Check-in

from 15:00-23:59

Check-out

from 11:00-12:00

Guest Parking

No parking available.

Internet

Wireless internet is available in the entire hotel for free.

Breakfast

A full breakfast is served at the price of EUR 10 per person per day.

Pets

Pets are not allowed.

Languages

German, Greek

Number of floors:

Number of rooms:

Former name

athens key hotel, trademark collection by wyndham

Reviews and Ratings

Feedback about Zeus Essence Athens Central, Former Athens Key from previous guests about their experience.

Review summary

Based on recent reviews

Zeus Essence Athens Central, formerly Athens Key, is often praised for its rooftop restaurant offering amazing views and a lovely city view during breakfast. Many guests appreciate the generous breakfast buffet with a wide variety of choices, including Greek items. The superior double rooms with a city view often feature amenities like two separate sinks and a rainfall shower; some guests have mentioned that traffic noise could be an issue in rooms facing the street. The hotel's location provides convenient access to Omonia Square and the metro, making it easy to explore Athens.

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Review score

Based on 730 verified reviews

8.2 /10

Great

80 %

Recommend

Free WiFi

9.0/10

Staff

8.8/10

Paid Wi-Fi

7.1/10

Location

7.9/10

Pros

Good location

Helpful staff

Elegant hotel

Cons

Bathroom design

Breakfast variety

juliet from united kingdom

Family with children

superior double room city view

3 nights in November 2025

Reviewed: January 18, 2026

9.3/10

charming stay

excellent location friendly staff delicious food

i enjoyed the cleanliness of the hotel. the front desk staff was fantastic (i have to say!). the restaurant on the tenth floor offered amazing views, and the food tasted delicious. i appreciated the upgrade and the kind recommendation for the island of poros.

the two small elevators struggled to handle the flow of guests, especially during peak times.

Location

9/10

the hotel stands a brief three-minute stroll from the city center. it provides convenient access to major attractions. the acropolis is only fifteen minutes away.

Dining

10/10

the breakfast buffet presents a rich and flavorful array of options. from the restaurant atop the building, one can view the acropolis. there are amazing views available from the restaurant on the tenth floor.

Rooms

9/10

the rooms are very well maintained and clean. my room featured a balcony with perfect views. it also included all necessities, even wine, fruits, and ironing equipment.

0 Helpful

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Rosie from Australia

Family with children

superior double room city view

3 nights in October 2025

Reviewed: December 20, 2025

7/10

rooftop terrace breakfast selection small elevators street noise

The rooftop terrace offered a beautiful view. i found the breakfast selection quite excellent and varied. the staff was always ready to assist and offered great service. I found them friendly. the hotel's location near the metro made it easy to get around.

The elevators were quite small, and this often caused delays. the room i stayed in faced a busy street. The resulting noise was quite loud. this made it difficult to sleep soundly, so bring earplugs.

0 Helpful

Mark from United States

Superior Double Room City View

3 nights in November 2025

Reviewed: December 08, 2025

6/10

rooftop terrace good breakfast traffic noise metal windows

the rooftop terrace offered a good breakfast with choices.

the room was not soundproof. i could hear traffic noise, and it was not easy to sleep. the windows did not shut out the noise effectively

0 Helpful

Logan from United States

Single

Superior Double Room City View

4 nights in October 2025

Reviewed: December 07, 2025

9/10

separate sinks rainfall shower rooftop restaurant

i stayed in the superior double room city view it featured two separate sinks and a rainfall shower the room was very quiet breakfast took place in the rooftop restaurant it offered a lovely city view.

the elevators were small it sometimes caused delays during peak hours

0 Helpful

Peter from United Kingdom

Family with children

superior double room city view

3 nights in June 2025

Reviewed: August 22, 2025

6/10

the breakfast buffet had a big variety of greek items it was very nice.

the location wasn't great, i think. the streets felt a little unsafe when i returned late at night. i wish they were more populated.

0 Helpful

Fiona from Ireland

Single

superior double room city view

3 nights in June 2025

Reviewed: August 03, 2025

7/10

a good option but with some issues

friendly staff clean room tasteful design remote location deserted streets broken ac

the staff was friendly. the room was clean. the design and style throughout the hotel struck me as tasteful. i requested some chairs for the balcony and it was handled quickly.

the location involved a 20-minute walk to tourist sites. i found the streets deserted late at night. this. the ac broke and no fans were available.

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FAQs

About Zeus Essence Athens Central, Former Athens Key

Which landmarks are closest to the Zeus Essence Athens Central, Former Athens Key hotel?

Guests of the Zeus Essence Athens Central, Former Athens Key hotel can visit Achilleas (about a 5-minute ride from the accommodation), or the neoclassical National Archaeological Museum placed 8 minutes' walk away.

Should we expect an airport shuttle to bring us to the 5-star Zeus Essence Athens Central, Former Athens Key hotel?

Airport shuttle which will take you to the 5-star Zeus Essence Athens Central, Former Athens Key hotel with a 34-minute drive is among the services offered by the property. Please inform the staff about your estimated arrival time.

Can we park our car at the Athens hotel?

Guests of the Athens hotel can take advantage of parking.

Is there any public transport available next to the 5-star Zeus Essence Athens Central, Former Athens Key hotel?

The nearest bus station to the 5-star Zeus Essence Athens Central, Former Athens Key hotel is Ioulianou, set merely 200 metres away and the closest metro station is Omonoia placed within a few blocks of the property.

What payment methods are available in the Zeus Essence Athens Central, Former Athens Key hotel?

At the Zeus Essence Athens Central, Former Athens Key hotel, guests can pay using American Express, Visa, and Diners Club as well as other payment methods.

What kinds of rooms does the 5-star Zeus Essence Athens Central, Former Athens Key hotel offer?

The 5-star Zeus Essence Athens Central, Former Athens Key hotel offers such room types as Classic Double Room, Superior Twin Room, and Superior Queen Room.

Does the staff at the Zeus Essence Athens Central, Former Athens Key hotel speak any foreign languages?

Yes, the staff of the Zeus Essence Athens Central, Former Athens Key hotel will help you in German and Greek.

Are there any business facilities featured at the 5-star Zeus Essence Athens Central, Former Athens Key hotel?

Yes, for business travellers the 5-star Zeus Essence Athens Central, Former Athens Key hotel provides conference facilities and a work desk.

Which facilities are provided in the hotel?

Top locations of the hotel include a luggage room and a restaurant, whereas guests' safety will be ensured with 24-hour security and luggage storage.