The hottest trend last year in Greece was the “boutique” hotel. No, it doesn’t have anything to do with shopping. Actually no one is really sure what “boutique” means when we refer to hotels but one thing is sure: it allows hotel-keepers to charge more.

Vintage and New Boutique Hotels

Generally, boutique hotels can be newly built or newly renovated. In the first case, it means that the structure of a newly built hotel is interesting in some way. As for the newly renovated hotels, “boutique” means that the building is vintage structure is interesting from an architectural point of view.

However, the big reason for which is called a “boutique” hotel comes from inside: the interior furnishing is stunning and most often you’ll see fine art displays or cutting edge modern furniture. Do pay attention to the lobby: what you find there might look very overwhelming in your room.

And speaking of rooms…

Great Interior…Too Bad It’s Tiny

For every good part, there is always a bad part. In this case, the beautiful furnishing is “compensated” by the tiny space. If you want a large room, it’s advisable no to choose boutique hotels.

You might like the colors used though. If you are sick of the “traditional” blue and white combination of most rooms in other hotels, then a boutique hotel might be the best choice for you: the vivid colors, deep reds, even a metallic hint. But as mentioned above, the furnishing might be a bit overwhelming.

How About the Prices?

With a new trend, there come new prices. In this case, high prices! Although the hotel categories aren’t exactly standard in Greece, the price per room generally depends on how big the room is, what facilities the hotels offers and many more. But when the word “boutique” is used, hotel-keeps charge more per room although the rooms don’t meet the standard requirements for a deluxe hotel.

Here is more information about Hotel Categories in Greece.

Boutique Hotels

If you visit Athens and plan to stay in a boutique hotel, try Art Hotel, located within walking distance of the National Archaeological Museum. It’s a new hotel (2005) located in a historical building (1930). For the 2008 season the prices start at €99 per night for a single room and €129 per night for double room in high season. It’s really handy for business travelers as it offers free Wi-Fi access in all rooms, as well as direct-dial numbers for both telephone and fax machine.

In Mykonos you can stay at Mykonos Grace Hotel, which offers a lovely view of the sea. The rooms are decorated in the minimalist style, which can be quite boring for some. For the 2008 season the prices start at €250 per night for a double room in high season.

If you plan to visit Santorini, you can stay at Matina Hotel, which was renovated in 2005. It has a swimming pool and is opened all year round. You might want to avoid it if you want a view of the caldera though but it’s perfect for those who want to stay right near the beach. For the 2008 season the prices start at €69 per night for a single room and €86 per night for a double room in high season.