Semiramis Hotel
Selected
Check Availability & Prices
Find the best rates for Semiramis Hotel.
Check Availability on Booking.comView the official listing on the MICHELIN Guide.
Hotel Details
Location
Athens
Greece, Europe
Explore More Hotels
Expert Review: Semiramis Hotel
The Semiramis Hotel in Athens, Greece, stands out as a Michelin Key Selected property, offering a "very special stay" with its unique design and exceptional service. Located in the upscale suburb of Kifissia, it provides a vibrant and art-filled retreat away from the city center's hustle.
1. Overall Rating & Sentiment
The general consensus for Semiramis Hotel is highly positive, consistently receiving "Very Good" ratings. It scores an 8.4 out of 10 on Booking.com from 140 reviews, with particularly high marks for its location (9.0) and staff (8.9). Trip.com also rates it 8.6/10 from 63 reviews. Guests frequently praise its distinctive aesthetic, professional service, and tranquil setting, describing it as "unique," "cool," and "perfect". The hotel is a "One Michelin Key" property, signifying a very special stay.
2. Key Highlights
Guests consistently adore the Semiramis for its bold and futuristic design by Karim Rashid, characterized by day-glo colors, curving shapes, and an "energetic atmosphere". The hotel also showcases a rotating exhibition of the owner's extensive art collection, featuring works by artists like Jeff Koons, Sue Webster, and Tim Noble. The beautiful outdoor pool and day lounge area are frequently highlighted, described as a "feast for the eyes". The impeccable service from "true 5* level staff" is another recurring commendation. Its location in the quiet, upscale Kifissia neighborhood, with easy access to shops and restaurants, is also a significant draw.
3. Room Quality
Semiramis Hotel offers 51 accommodations designed with a vibrant, futuristic, and colorful aesthetic that guests find mood-lifting. Rooms feature unique décor, advanced technological comforts, and high-end amenities. Standard and Superior Rooms, while efficiently designed, can be on the smaller side. Guests appreciate features like internet TVs with cordless keyboards, DVD players, minibars, and a pillow menu. Bathrooms are quirky, often featuring curved opaque glass and colorful sink basins, though some guests note the pink glass shower barrier can allow water to splash out. A programmable electronic messaging system at each bedroom's threshold allows guests to set preferences like "do not disturb". Pool Bungalows provide personal outdoor lounge space, while suites boast large outdoor terraces and neighborhood views. Recent reviews suggest the hotel feels "like new," indicating good upkeep of its distinctive interiors.
4. Dining Experience
The hotel's two-level restaurant and bar serve a fusion of contemporary Greek, European, and international flavors. Breakfast is described as "copious" and "rich," offering a buffet with fresh fruits, pastries, warm options like oatmeal, and made-to-order omelets with various fillings. An à la carte menu is also available for those seeking special breakfast dishes. The on-site Koumkan Athens restaurant specializes in Italian cuisine, serving breakfast, brunch, lunch, and dinner. The Pool Bar & Restaurant offers Mediterranean cuisine blended with international favorites, overlooking the uniquely shaped swimming pool.
5. Service & Staff
The service at Semiramis Hotel is consistently highlighted as a major strength. Guests frequently use terms like "true 5* level staff," "excellent service everywhere," "extremely helpful and pleasant staff," and "genuinely kind" to describe their interactions. The team is praised for being professional, attentive, and natural, often exceeding expectations.
6. Location & Accessibility
Semiramis Hotel is situated in Kifissia, an affluent, green, and peaceful northern suburb of Athens. This location offers a quiet oasis, elevated 340 meters above sea level, away from the humidity and bustle of central Athens. The area is known for its high-end boutiques, restaurants, and cafes, all within easy walking distance. While not in the historical center, the Acropolis and other major sights are accessible via a 30-minute taxi ride or a 40-minute metro journey. Athens International Airport "Eleftherios Venizelos" is approximately 30-33 km away, taking less than 30 minutes by taxi. The hotel provides free parking and offers an airport shuttle service.
7. Value & Pricing
The hotel generally offers good value for a 5-star property, with a "Value for money" rating of 7.9 on Booking.com. While specific pricing varies, KAYAK indicates nightly rates typically range from $138 to $212, with cheaper deals often found in March and February, and on Fridays or Thursdays. Many guests consider it an excellent value, especially given the high quality of service and the unique design experience it offers within the luxurious Kifissia area.
8. Common Complaints
While overwhelmingly positive, some minor criticisms have been noted. Earlier reviews mentioned potential issues with noise insulation. Some guests also found the standard and superior rooms to be a bit small. While overall cleanliness is rated well (8.6 on Booking.com), older reviews occasionally mentioned decor or carpets appearing worn or dated, though recent feedback suggests the hotel feels "like new". In the bathrooms, the colorful sink basins sometimes lack counter space, and the pink glass shower barriers have been cited for allowing water to splash out. Lastly, some rooms do not include coffee makers or tea kettles. Its suburban location, while appreciated for its tranquility, might be a drawback for those solely focused on immediate access to central Athens' tourist attractions.
