how many days to visit athens greece

The Ultimate 2, 3 or 4 Days in Athens Itinerary

Last Updated on March 4, 2024

by Olivia Ellis

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Planning a 2, 3 or 4 days in Athens itinerary can sometimes seem like an afterthought when mapping out a longer trip to Greece. Although some of the main images that the word Greece inspires for travelers are Athens and the Acropolis, few people spend more than a day in the capital city or outside of the port.

For most people, Greece is synonymous with the Greek islands such as Mykonos , Milos , Corfu and Santorini with vast deep blue seas, and dream-worthy sunsets. With a few days set aside to explore Athens, you’ll manage to get to know the heart of this special country, its people, and the birthplace of democracy.

Table of Contents

How Many Days in Athens?

It can be tough to put your finger on just how many days to spend in Athens as it’s a relatively condensed city. However, there are also plenty of things to do and areas to explore outside of the heart of Athens.

In 1 day, you’ll be able to explore the main area of the center of the city and wander around the Acropolis.

With 2 days in Athens, you’ll be able to explore the city center at a much slower pace and maybe check out another museum.

Spending 3 days exploring the sites of Athens is ideal to do the city justice and get a better feel for what it is today.

And with 4 days, you’ll have the chance to get out of the city and take a day trip to one of the nearby areas rich in ancient history as well as beauty. If you have even more time, you can also go on a day trip somewhere further afield, such as to Meteora or Delphi .

Getting To & Around Athens

Chances are you’ll most likely be arriving in the city by plane or by ferry. While there is a train station in Athens, it’s more for local commuter routes so we’ll be skipping train transport in this article. 

If you’re arriving in the city by plane, you’ll be arriving at the Eleftherios Venizelos International Airport. The airport is 27 km from the city center and there are a few ways of reaching it.

The metro line 3 runs directly from the airport through the center, stopping at various points throughout the city. You can reach the metro from the airport by about a 3-minute walk outside the terminal.

The journey is just under 40 minutes from the airport to the city. A special airport ticket is required, so keep this in mind while purchasing!

It is possible to take a taxi to the city from the airport. But keep in mind that if you arrive after midnight, taxi costs increase to over double what you would pay earlier in the day. You can also organise a transfer in advance here .

If you’re arriving by ferry from one of the Greek islands, you’ll be arriving at the Piraeus port. Fortunately, there is a metro stop at the port making it easy to transport you onwards to your destination in the city. You can book ferries in advance here .

The center of Athens and its sites are quite small, making it a walkable city. If you’re just spending time in the more touristy part of the city, it’s pretty easy just to walk between destinations.

Otherwise, the public transportation system is great and using it can keep your Greece trip cost lower. Buses run throughout the city during the day and night making it an efficient way to manoeuvre around the city.

The metro system has 3 lines that have points throughout the city which is one of the most ideal ways to get around Athens.

Tickets for both the metro and busses can be purchased at any metro station kiosk for 90-minute tickets once validated.

From Athens, there are also quite a few solid day trip options and although there isn’t a flourishing train system, there is a good bus system. The KTEL buses are more like charter buses connecting Greece. They tend to be on time and have good routes and frequent journeys.

If you’re hoping to go onward to the Greek islands from Athens, the Piraeus port is one of the main ports in Greece making it the perfect place to begin your trip to the islands.

2, 3 or 4 Days in Athens Itinerary

From eating classic Greek home cooking, mingling with the locals, and really getting to know the character and history of this city, this itinerary is full of history, fun, and delicious food. 

Day 1 – Acropolis & Ancient Athens

Greek breakfast .

The best way to begin your time in Athens is to enjoy a classic Greek breakfast. Greek breakfast tends to be coffee of any sort, (although classic Greek coffee or “freddo” iced espresso tends to take reign) and a pie. 

Hop into any fourno (bakery) and grab the most appealing pie for you. I recommend either ham and cheese pie or bougatsa (a custard pastry!)

Acropolis Museum

As we will head to the Acropolis later today on day 1 of this itinerary for Athens, there’s no better way to begin the day than by learning about this famous Ancient landmark at the Acropolis Museum.

The Acropolis Museum is home to the majority of the archaeological findings from the Acropolis and it’s truly an impressive collection of history.

The museum is located directly below the Acropolis and offers some of the most impressive views of the Acropolis from below. You can also see the Temple of Olympian Zeus and the incredible Temple of Hephaestus nearby.

The visiting hours and ticket costs are split into seasons; summer and winter. If visiting Athens in winter , the season is from 1 November – 31 March with reduced hours and ticket fees. The summer season is from 1 April – October 31 with lengthened opening hours. 

If you plan on visiting the Acropolis and numerous other Athens landmarks and museums, then it can also be worth purchasing the Athens City Pass to save a bit of cash.

Making its first appearance in the 5th-century BCE. and the star of the show, the splendor herself, is the Acropolis. Most people think that the temple on the hill in central Athens is the Acropolis when in actuality it’s the Parthenon. 

The Acropolis is the hill rising above the city that was quite common in most towns and cities in ancient Greece. You can get an incredible view of Athens here. If you’re just spending 1 day in the Greek capital, the Acropolis is a must-see during your stay. 

The Acropolis hosts the Parthenon as well as some of the other most striking pieces of ancient Greece; the Propylaea, the Temple of Athena Nike, the Odeon of Herodes Atticus, the Old Temple, and the Erechtheion among others. 

Visits to the Acropolis are also divided into seasons. The summer season from April-October allows visitors between 8 AM-8 PM with the last entry at 7:30. The winter season is from November-March and closes earlier at 5:00 with the last entry at 4:30.

You can buy skip-the-line tickets here that include an audio guide. You can also get a combined ticket here for the Acropolis and many other sites in Athens.

If you’re interested in learning more during your visit, you can organise a guided tour here . It’s such a dense area with so much information and a guide or tour can really enhance the experience.

Also, keep in mind if you’re visiting during the summer months that there is no shade once you reach the top and it can become extremely warm. Either come early in the morning or later in the evening if the direct sun is something that you struggle with. Regardless of when you visit, this is no doubt one of the best things to do in Athens.

Roman Agora, Ancient Agora & Hadrian’s Library

Nearby you’ll also find a few other important pieces from Ancient Greek history and architecture. The Roman Agora, the Ancient Agora of Athens, and Hadrian’s Library (created by the Roman Emperor Hadiran) are all located near each other and are between the Plaka and Monastiraki neighborhoods.

It’s truly interesting wandering these areas of everyday Athenian life and imagining what life was like almost 2,800 years ago.

If you’re interested in visiting these sites as well, you can purchase a combined ticket which allows access to all of these sites.

Wander Around Plaka & Anafiotika

After your dive into Ancient Greece, a great way to wind down your first day in Athens is to stroll around the classic Athenian neighborhood of Plaka. 

Sitting beneath the Acropolis, you’ll find gift shops, clothing shops, delicious taverns, and ideal spots to have a drink and do some people-watching.

Another unique neighborhood worth spending some time in is the residential area of Anafiotika. It’s quite small and pretty tricky to find, but once you’re there you’ll feel as if you’re in a village far off on a Cycladic island. 

From the winding stairs and paths to some of the most gorgeous views, I highly recommend adding Anafiotika to your Athens itinerary. It’s difficult to find, but first, make your way to Plaka and then plug Agios Georgios church at Stratonos into your GPS. You’ll then be on your way!

Sunset at Filopappou Hill

Looking for the best spot in Athens to watch the sun go down? Head to Filopappou Park and follow the signs and crowds to make your way up the hill looking over the city. 

Here you’ll find one of the best views of the city and the perfect spot to bring a bottle of wine and good company to watch the sunset.

Alternatively, you could head to Lycabettus Hill – the top of which can be reached by funicular – where you can view the city from the highest point in Athens.

Day 2 – Central Athens

Benaki or archaeological museum.

If classical Greek sightseeing wasn’t enough for you on day 1, you’re in luck as Athens is the place to be. A few of the other best museums are the Benaki Museum and the Archaeological Museum.

The Benaki Museum is located in the center of the city near the National Garden and is home to over 100,000 artifacts from Ancient Greece.

The Archaeological Museum is located near the Victoria metro station and is known to be one of the greatest museums in the world. This museum is also the largest in Greece with important artifacts from prehistory to late antiquity.

Hours vary depending on the time of year as well as the cost of your ticket; summer season tickets are are more expensive.

Psyri & Monastiraki Neighborhoods

Lively Psyri and Monastiraki are both two central neighborhoods that can’t be missed during your Athens itinerary. With 2 days in Athens, you have the perfect opportunity to immerse yourself in the excitement of the city center. 

From Monastiraki station, you can wander around the markets that have a certain feel almost like Arabic markets. Then head to Ermou Street to do some shopping if you fancy. 

Afterwards head to Psyri which is full of cafes, artisanal stores, bars, and music-filled Greek taverns. Don’t forget to look around while you wander as there are some truly beautiful and interesting works of graffiti art in Psyri (among the rubbish ones).

Lunch at Lithos Tavern

As all of the walking and shopping is bound to make you hungry, it’s the perfect time to stop for some lunch. Lithos Tavern in Psyri is the perfect place to fill your classic Greek food needs and rest your feet. I recommend the Moussaka or maybe some classic Greek mixed grilled meats.

Syntagma Square & Changing of the Guard

After lunch, make your way to Syntagma Square and the Parliament Building of Greece. This is just about a 15-20 minute walk away from Psyri and many Athenians would call this the main square of the city.

At all times of the day and night, there are soldier guards standing watch on the Tomb of the Unknown Soldier and the presidential and parliament buildings.

These soldiers wear traditional Greek uniforms inspired by what was worn during the Ottoman Period and change positions with other soldiers every hour.

During the changing of the guard, you’ll witness a uniquely coordinated and almost dance-like motion as positions are changed. It’s quite a remarkable experience to witness and a must-see.

Drink With a View at Attic Urban Rooftop

Modern-day Athens is synonymous with wonderful views as well as creative cocktail bars. A great place to enjoy a nightcap and wind down on your second day in Athens is to make your way to the Attic Urban Rooftop .

Here you’ll enjoy some of the most spectacular views of the Acropolis under the moonlight as well as a tasty drink and/or food. 

Day 3 – Explore the Food Scene, Panathenaic Stadium, National Gardens & More!

If you’re spending 3 days in Athens, you’ll have the chance to dive deeper into the food culture of the city as well as more of the unique neighborhoods the city has to offer.

Food Tour or Central Market

A food tour is a perfect way to get a better look and taste of the food scene in Athens. A guided tour with a knowledgeable local will take you to key foodie places in the city to try tasty local foods.

You’ll learn the history beyond what you taste as well as more about the history of the city. Some highly rated options include this gourmet food tour and this street food tour .

If you prefer to skip the food tour and would prefer to do something independently, I’d suggest heading to the Central Municipal Athens Market to get a taste of what food and life are like for a local Athenian. 

Panathenaic Stadium

One of the most impressive sites to visit in Athens is the Panathenaic stadium, which can be looked over by tourists due to the Acropolis!

The Panathenaic stadium is located in the Pagrati neighborhood of Athens and is the only stadium in the world built entirely of marble. 

The stadium was built primarily for the Panathenaic Games in 330 BCE with a capacity of over 50,000 seats. It hosted the opening and closing ceremonies of the first modern Olympic games in 1896 as well as multiple sports during the games and other ceremonies. 

You can just take it in from the outside or pay an admission fee to wander around inside.

National Gardens

Whilst the city of Athens may truly be a concrete jungle, there are a few green areas available to get away and get a breath of fresh air in nature.

The National Gardens of Athens are located about an 8-minute walk away from the Panathenaic Stadium and are comprised of around 38 acres of greenery and different flora. 

Here you’ll also find a handful of ancient ruins, statues, and different memories of Greece’s past; modern and ancient. It’s free to enter the gardens and the entry gates are open every day.

Explore a Different Neighborhood

If you’re looking to get to know different parts of the city and stray away from the crowds, this is the perfect time to explore deeper. Two of my favorites are Glyfada and Exarcheia.

The neighborhood of Glyfada is likely the biggest neighborhood and residential area in the southern suburbs and by the Athenian coast. Known as the home to many ex-pats, Glyfada is bursting at the seams with restaurants, cute cafes, bars, and things to do. 

This is also the perfect place to head to if you want to spend some time at the sea; whether in the water or just by walking and taking in the Greek waters and sunset. 

Glyfada can be reached by bus but the best way to reach Glyfada is by the tram system (leaving from Syntagma Square.)

Exarcheia is most well known as one of the edgiest and most alternative areas of the city. To many Exarcheia is just referred to as the “anarchist” neighborhood of Athens but there’s a lot more to explore if you dig deeper. 

Here you’ll find crowds of students, artists, intellectuals, and all those looking to experience life and the city through more of a unique lens. There’s delicious food here, jazz bars, street art and independent local finds of all sorts.

Day 4 – Cape Sounion or Marathon

If your trip to Athens consists of 4 or more days in the city, I recommend trying your best to get out of the city to one of the many nearby towns to experience a different side of Greece. I suggest different locations depending on the time of year you visit as well as your interests.  

Cape Sounion

Cape Sounion is located around 48 miles south of Athens and is the southern tip of the Attic Peninsula. While the entire area is full of idyllic views and things to see, the main attraction of Cape Sounion is the Temple of Poseidon. 

The Temple of Poseidon is a temple dedicated to the god Poseidon and is an important part of ancient Greek history. The temple looks out over the vast blue seas and standing at this southern tip of the Attic region surrounded by ancient monuments makes you feel like you’re in your own version of the Odyssey . 

There’s a cafe at the monument as well as nearby restaurants if you decide to make a longer day out of it. Visiting in the cooler months is ideal as it isn’t as crowded, and make sure to stay for sunset. The views are sublime.

To reach Cape Sounion you can either rent a car and transport yourself there or take public transport. Another option is to take part in a guided tour such as this sunset tour that will pick you up from your accommodation and return you there at the end of the day. 

The public bus system outside the city is KTEL and buses from central Athens to Sounion will depart near the Victoria metro from a bus stop across from Pedion tou Areos. The journey takes around 2 hours. You can find bus timetables here . 

Marathon/Schinias 

Another great option for a day trip from Athens is to visit the Ancient town of Marathon and nearby areas. We all know a “marathon” as the 26-mile race that happens all over the world, but it was actually inspired by the ancient and epic battle of Marathon. 

This battle then led to the legend of Philippides. Philippides was the Greek messenger who supposedly ran to Athens from Marathon, hence the 26-mile race today.

The town has many things to do from the Archaeological Museum of Marathon, Marathon Lake, the Marathon Run Museum, and my favorite, Schinias Beach.

Schinias Beach is a long sandy beach on the northern side of Marathon surrounded by the sea on one side and the lush pine forest of Schinias on the other.

The water is clean and warm, the environment is friendly, and it’s one of the best places to get some forest bathing and sea bathing all in one day. 

The beaches are much cleaner and better kept than those near Athens and also incredibly cheaper to visit. There are different options for restaurants and taverns on the beach, making it a solid option for a summer day trip from Athens.

To reach Marathon and Schinias from Athens, you’ll also want to take a KTEL bus. It’s about 45 minutes away from the center of Athens and you’ll take the bus from the Pedion Areos by Viktoria Station going to Marathon and get off at Marathon Beach.

From there, you’ll walk north along the coast until reaching Schinias. Tickets can be purchased when boarding the bus.

Where to Stay in Athens

Athens Ivy Suites – This centrally-located hotel is an excellent choice for mid-range visitors to Athens. They have a range of lovely rooms available and there is also a bar on site and a wonderful terrace boasting views over the city.

The Modernist Athens – Those looking for luxury in the Greek capital are sure to love this beautiful 4-star hotel. Perfectly located for exploring all Athens has to offer, they have a number of luxe, modern rooms available and plenty of amenities to ensure your stay is a great one.

101 Adrianou Apartments – If you’d like the privacy and convenience of your own apartment with all the benefits of staying in a hotel, then this aparthotel is an excellent choice. There are a couple of flats to choose from – some with views of the iconic columns of the Acropolis.

City Circus Athens – For those travelling to Athens on a tight budget or solo, this hostel is a great option. Offering both dorm beds and private rooms, they have a great location and excellent common areas. They organise social events, as well.

Not quite what you’re looking for? Click here to browse more Athens hotels!

One of the most historic cities in the world, Athens today is a unique metropolis worth visiting before or after heading to the Greek islands. Although it may have a lot of grit, you’re bound to have an exciting visit to Athens filled with great music, sites, history, and tantalizing food.

Are you planning a trip to Athens? Have any questions about this itinerary? Let us know in the comments!

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About Olivia Ellis

Olivia is a writer for The World Was Here First. Originally from Michigan, USA, she is currently living in Athens, Greece exploring Europe and filmmaking. When she’s not travelling or writing, Olivia can be found cooking delicious new recipes from around the world, reading, and spending time outdoors.

As a Greek from Athens, these are excellent recommendations. Especially the schinias day trip 😍

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How Many Days In Athens Is Enough?

by Melissa Giroux | Last updated Nov 8, 2023 | Europe , Greece , Travel Tips

Rich in culture and history, the city of Athens is filled with unique attractions, experiences, and sights.

But just how many days in Athens do you need to really make the most of all this incredible city has to offer?

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Are a couple of days enough or should you really plan for a longer visit?

The answer to this question mainly depends on the type of break you are looking for.

Do you enjoy moving at a fast pace and seeing a lot of sights in a small amount of time? Then two days might just be enough – although you should plan for a very busy schedule! 

But if you’d like to spend a little longer at each attraction and allow yourself a bit more time to soak up the vibrant atmosphere of Greece’s capital, then plan for a 3 or even 4-day visit.

How To Decide How Many Days In Athens You Will Need

In this guide, I’ve put together a list of everything you need to consider, along with my suggestions for what to do in Athens during your visit. 

I’ve recommended roughly how long you should plan to spend at each attraction, which will help you organize an achievable itinerary for your stay.

Not sure if you can fit Athens on your Greece itinerary? Read our guide to find out if Athens is worth visiting .

Time Of Arrival, Hotel Check-In Time, And Time Of Departure

First, consider your arrival and departure times from the city.

If you arrive in Athens very late or leave early, then you won’t have much time on those days to see the sights. Make sure you factor this in when deciding how many full days you need.

Your hotel check-in and departure times are important too. If your check-in time is quite late in the day, then you will need to make arrangements to store your luggage, so that you are free to explore the city. 

Many accommodation providers and hotels will be quite happy for you to leave your luggage with them ahead of checking in. But this isn’t always the case, so be sure to find out in advance.

If you need to look for alternative options for storing luggage, then you have a few choices.

There are private companies offering this service in the city center, with Pacific Travel near the Syntagma metro station being one of the most popular. 

There are also lockers available for rent on a daily basis near Monastiraki metro station, and inside the arrival hall at Athens airport. 

You’ll also find many ferry ticket agencies and 24-hour cafeterias at Piraeus Port, either offering lockers or luggage storage halls.

Be sure to book ahead of time, especially at the height of the season.

Want to speed up your arrival? Consider booking a private transfer from Athens airport to your hotel .

Staying in Athens?

Make sure to book a stay in one of the best hotels in Athens. Best hostel: Thanasis Place Best mid-range hotel: Downtown Athens Lofts – The Acropolis Observatory Best luxury hotel: Hotel Grande Bretagne, a Luxury Collection Hotel

Athens Attractions

Although spontaneity is fun, it’s very important to plan exactly what you want to see and do in Athens ahead of your trip. This makes it easier to work out a practical itinerary and prioritize what you can fit into your visit! 

Use the list of attractions in this guide to help, as it suggests how long you’ll need to spend at each one to really appreciate it. 

But don’t forget to take into account potential queuing time, along with the possibility of transport delays.

If you wish to save time, we recommend you buy your tickets in advance to skip the line. We suggest the Acropolis and 6 Archaeological Sites Combo Ticket to help you make the most of your time in Athens.

Pace Of Activities

If you choose to spend only 2 days in Athens, you will need to decide between seeing lots of sights very quickly, or only seeing a few and spending longer at each. 

Adding an extra night or two to your stay can help you slow things down a little.

This is definitely the best option if you are someone who likes to really relax and spend time soaking up the atmosphere of the places you visit. 

Transportation

Fortunately, many of the must-see attractions in Athens are located close together, saving you precious travel time.

Most hotels are within easy walking distance of these sites. 

If you do need to travel further, there are buses and a metro system, both of which are cheap.

Taxis are more expensive but may be a better option if your main priority is to get from one attraction to another as quickly as possible. 

What To Do In Athens

Here are my recommendations for the very best things to see and do during your visit.

The Acropolis

This ancient site is possibly the highlight of any visit to Athens and can easily be seen from all over the city! 

Its most famous attraction is the Parthenon at the top, but this rocky hill has much to see on its slopes too. 

Coming in from the metro entrance, you can see the well-preserved Theatre of Dionysius, followed by the Odeon of Herodes Atticus.

As you continue to climb the rocky paths, you’ll reach the Propylaea, a monumental entrance through which you’ll get your first glimpse of the temples at the top. 

Aside from visiting the many marble monuments and sanctuaries, one of the best things to do at the Acropolis is simply to take in the panoramic view of the vast site and across the city itself.

Suggested time: 1.5 to 2 hours. I’d recommend booking a tour , which would allow you to see the best sights in the shortest time.

Book your ticket in advance

Located at the top of the Acropolis, this is the temple dedicated to the city’s namesake – the goddess Athena. 

It was originally built to house her statue and serve as a treasury. 

Greece’s most famous building, it is the perfect example of Doric architecture and is decorated with incredible sculptures.

You can see a frieze all the way around the top, although many of the stone carvings of the gods are actually copies, and the originals are now in the Acropolis museum.

There is a safe and modern elevator to take you up to the Parthenon if you have mobility issues.

Suggested time: 1.5 to 2 hours. 

You can book a tour that includes the Parthenon and the Acropolis .

Temple Of Hephaestus

Built around 450 BC, this is Greece’s best-preserved ancient temple. It was dedicated to Athena and Hephaestus, the ancient god of fire. Interestingly, it was designed by an architect who also worked on the Parthenon.

It is located among the trees of the Agora beneath the northwest slope of the Acropolis. I recommend taking the 20-minute walk from the Temple to the Acropolis, then also viewing it from the top of the hill.

You can’t go inside the Temple, but you can walk around it.

Set aside 20 minutes if this is all you want to see, or allow at least an hour or so if you’d also like to visit the Museum of Agora and Agii Apostoloi church on the same site.

Museum Of Cycladic Art

Housed in a modern glass and marble building in the Kolonáki quarter, this museum has over 3,000 exhibits of ancient Greek art, plus art from the Cyclades (the Greek islands southeast of the mainland in the Aegean Sea).

You can also see ancient Cypriot artworks here. 

Many of the artifacts include statues of gods or Greek heroes, arranged into groups to give you a much better understanding of ancient Greek civilization. Covering four floors, the museum contains an excellent cafe too.

Suggested time: 1 to 2 hours. 

This picturesque neighborhood feels just like a village, with narrow streets, pretty squares, and pastel-colored buildings covered in bougainvillea.

The perfect contrast to the ruins and museums of Athens, it’s a lovely place to take a scenic stroll, or to experience authentic Greek cuisine.

That being said, there are still some points of historic interest, including the Church of Kapnikaréa in the north and the Metamórfosis Church in the southwest.

Suggested time: 2 to 3 hours.

Benaki Museum Of Greek Culture

Containing 120,000 artworks from prehistoric to modern times, this museum in the Benaki family’s former mansion gives you a glimpse into lots of different stages of Greek culture. 

Founded in 1934, it also contains a wide variety of Byzantine and Islamic objects donated by the family and has a vast collection of Muslim books. 

Everything is chronologically organized, so it is interesting to note the development of the artifacts over time.

And if you are fascinated by fashion and design, be sure to check out the excellent collection of textiles and folk costumes. 

Suggested time: 2 hours.

This cemetery of ancient Athens is one of the least-visited archaeological sites – but it is also the most beautiful. 

Named after Keramos, the son of Dionysios and Ariadne, this cemetery was used for burials from the twelfth century BC for a thousand years.

The grave markers are fascinating, with portraits and carved scenes giving you a glimpse into ancient everyday life. 

Be sure to visit the Street of Tombs, which was used exclusively for the elite members of Athens society.

Final Thoughts On Athens Getaways

If you’ve been struggling to decide on how many days for Athens, I hope this guide has made it much easier to put together your Athens itinerary.

I also hope you enjoy every moment of your visit to Europe’s oldest capital city.

Visiting Greece soon? Read one of the following blog posts:

• Greece backpacking itinerary
• Santorini in winter
• How many days in Santorini

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How many days in Athens for first-time visitors?

How many days in Athens should you spend the first time you visit Athens? Around 3-4 days is the perfect amount for first-timers and this detailed guide covers all the essential Athens sites.

Here’s how to see the major sights in central Athens, the most important ancient sites, and the must-see museums.

Find where to stay to most easily visit the major sites on your Athens itinerary, and practical information about how to get around Athens and not spend your time queuing for tickets.

If you have more time to spend, there are dozens of exciting day trip options to take from Athens and we’ll cover these as well.

Is Athens Worth Visiting?

🎭 Athens is one of the most vibrant capitals in Europe and is worth spending at least three days visiting this unique city.

🎭 Athens is ancient and ultra-modern at the same time, packed with historical sites, world-class museums, good nightlife, great street food and street art, and a second-to-none urban lifestyle.

🎭 Athens is quintessential Greece too – home to some of the most impressive world heritage sites incorporated into the daily lives of Athenians, a global Mediterranean and Aegean Sea port, and a fantastic city to live in and visit.

🎭 Everywhere you go in Athens, there is a Greece from different epochs – ancient, medieval, and modern times intertwined with a contemporary city which means you’ll never get tired of exploring Greece’s capital city.

Practical Information about Visiting Athens

• With more than 3 million people, Athens is a sprawling city and requires good planning to see its best charms.
• I would suggest staying in well-positioned neighborhoods and starting off your sightseeing with Athens’ crown jewels – the Acropolis and its surroundings.
• After that, depending on the time you have, expand your visits to essential museums like the Acropolis Museum and the National Archaeological Museum, the downtown central areas of the cities, and then to the different hip districts, locals’ favorite bars and restaurants, and art galleries to feel the beat of the real city.
• Athens is a year-round destination, but best visited outside the months of July and August when it’s too hot and crowded. (See all about the weather in Greece in May).
• Although many of Athens’ important monuments are within walking distance from each other, it is good to know that the city offers safe and great public transport links.
• Several metro lines are complemented by buses and trams and all work with a single-type ticket. I suggest you stock up on 90-minute single-fare tickets (€1.20) to be ready to hop on/off as you wander around the city.
• The alternative is to buy a pass for the “Hop On, Hop Off” tourist buses. The best one of these (almost 2000 great reviews and very inexpensive) is the Athens, Piraeus, and Coastline: Blue Hop-On Hop-Off Bus ticket which is valid for 2 days.
• Taxis and Ubers are also relatively inexpensive for short rides.
• Learn how to say “thank you” in Greek
• Learn how, when, and how much to tip in Greece as well as the legal drinking age in Greece and the drink-driving limits .

What is the best length of stay in Athens?

I would go for 4 days, which leaves you with 3 days to explore the city as well as a day trip to some of the beautiful Greek Islands or mainland Greece’s historic sites.

What is the minimum stay in Athens?

It all depends on what you want to see in Athens, but for me, 2 days is a minimum for a comfortable stay and sightseeing. In 2 days you can see the main ancient sites, sample lots of great food, and wander around downtown.

The more days you have, the better.

Is it worth spending only one day in Athens?

It is, if you are visiting Greece via Athens, but can’t spend more time seeing the Athens attractions.

The first time I visited Athens it was an accidental 5-hour stopover and I spent it at the Acropolis – it’s the most incredible stopover I’ve ever had!

I would avoid traveling specifically to Athens only to spend a day here, but I’ve also spent a lovely day at the Acropolis Museum, the National Archaeological Museum, and the Museum of Cycladic Art.

Where to Stay in Athens to most easily see the major sites?

Athens’ famous landmarks are in the city center – in or close to Plaka , Monastiraki , Psyri, and Koukaki areas.

Staying in Plaka is magical as you will walk out from your accommodation to marble-paved narrow streets full of century-old houses, a city center vibe and pedestrian lifestyle, views of the Acropolis, and plenty of museums, tavernas, shops, and bars to choose from.

Staying centrally will help you visit the main attractions without spending a few hours daily in moving around.

Even better, the ancient Athens area of the city center is serviced by several metro stations (Acropolis, Monastiraki, and Syngrou–Fix) that are within easy walking distance for the moments you want to venture out to other main historical sites.

The best luxury hotel in Athens is definitely The Grande Bretagne , a grand old hotel of the highest standing among the Athens’ elite. If it’s too pricey, check out these other Athens hotels with fantastic views of the Acropolis.

Must-see places in Athens, Greece during a 4-day trip

Here’s my essential list of ancient sites, museums, and major attractions.

1. Acropolis area and Museum

This is the core of Athens’ ancient city complex and one of the world’s most visited ancient landmarks. It consists of the ancient citadel on the Sacred Rock, as the Greeks call the hill on which the Acropolis complex is built.

Besides the  Parthenon , the main temple devoted to the goddess Athena, you will see  The Erechtheion  (with the iconic caryatide) and the  Propylaia  (monumental ceremonial gateway to the Acropolis).

At the base of the hill, you will see the ancient  Odeon of Herodes Atticus , where events are still held regularly, so check out the program.

You might be lucky and attend a live classical theatre performance while visiting Athens. Next door is the  Theater of Dionysos , another part of the ancient Acropolis complex.

The major section of this part of town is the famous pedestrian  Dionyssiou Areopagitou  Street, one of the most sought-after addresses in Greece with stunning townhouses overlooking the Acropolis, street vendors, and a cheerful Athenian atmosphere.

Finally, the Acropolis Museum is located at 15 Dionyssiou Areopagitou. It is a world-class museum of the city’s most famous landmark and a must-visit even if you are just passing through Athens.

2. The National Archaeological Museum 

The National Archaeological Museum is Greece’s biggest museum and a must for all history lovers.

Built during the 19th century in neoclassical style, it houses the world’s most important antiquities of Greece’s ancient history.

These include the fabulous Mask of Agamemnon, discovered in ancient Mycenae , but there are so many other incredible things to see, I can’t even start on a list of them all!

3. The Parliament Building and Surrounds 

The Parliament Building is the former Royal Palace.

This wonderful palace is in the heart of downtown Athens and is where the ancient city and historical quarters meet contemporary Athens.

It is a destination in itself, with a  Tomb of Unknown Soldier  just under it, and also a place where the famous  changing of the guards  is performed.

Next to it are the former royal gardens, nowadays  National Garden , a proper Oasis of Eden in downtown Athens.

4. Monastiraki

The central suburb of Monstiraki is the old commercial part of Athens, an area full of artisan ateliers, craftsmen’s shops, flea markets, and wonderful views of the Acropolis.

There are some lovely hotels here with amazing views of the Acropolis.

Syntagma Square  leads down from the Parliament Building to the  Monastiraki area .

5. Ancient Agora of Athens (and Stoa of Attalus)

There are two Agoras in Athens, one Greek, and one Roman. The most ancient Agora of Athens is the Greek Agora.

Set in the foothills northwest of the Acropolis, this Agora archaeological site is the best-preserved example of an Ancient Greek Agora – a place of commercial, political, and social gatherings and most likely the very spot where democracy came to life for the first time.

Its museum (Museum of the Ancient Agora), located in the Stoa of Attalos, showcases artifacts of everyday life from Ancient Greece. Read a detailed guide to all of Athens’ must-see archaeological sites here .

6. Panathenaic Stadium 

The Panathenaic Stadium is also known as Kallimarmaro which means, “ the beautiful marble . “

It is an ancient athletic stadium and the only stadium in the world built out entirely of marble. It hosted the first modern Olympic Games in 1896.

Read a detailed guide to all of Athens’ must-see archaeological sites here .

7. Benaki Museum

The Benaki Museum is a privately established museum dedicated to Greek civilization from ancient times to contemporary days.

Located in one of the city’s most stylish townhouses in the elegant  Kolonaki area , it is a must for every visitor.

If not for the collections, then for the rooftop bar and restaurant. (I have to admit – I come for the rooftop bar!)

8. Museum of Cycladic Art 

The Museum of Cycladic Art hosts 5000-year-old artifacts from the Greek Islands, showcasing the cultures of ancient Greece and Cyprus.

I don’t like visiting hundreds of museums in a few days – they give me sensory overload – but I love the whole vibe and aesthetic of the Cyclades, so this museum is a must for me.

Some of the best frescoes from one of my favorite ancient Greek sites , Akrotiri on Santorini , are here.

9. The Temple of Hephaestus 

The spectacular Temple of Hephaestus is a Doric-style structure and the best-preserved ancient temple in the world.

10. The Temple of Olympian Zeus

The Temple of Olympian Zeus is the ancient ruins of the once magnificent structure celebrating the Greek ancient god Zeus. From the original 100+ 15-meter columns, only a handful remains today.

11. Mount Lycabettus

Mount Lycabettus   is a sugar pile-like hill in the center of Athens and a place to take a cable car to reach the famous chapel of wonder-performing Agios Georgios and a top-hill café and restaurant.

Amazing cityscapes and Aegean Sea views for when you’re over Greece’s ancient sites , museums, and galleries.

12. Church of Panagia Kapnikarea

The Church of Panagia Kapnikarea seems to be on the way of the people strolling the shopping street of Ermou, but it is actually one of the oldest churches in Athens (11th century) and a most important part of the city’s Byzantine heritage.

Bonus Site: The Goulandris Museum of Contemporary Art

This newest addition to Athens’ museum scene (opened in 2019), displays the world-famous art collection of Basil & Elise Goulandris. The museum offers the finest global assemblage of international and Greek painters and sculptors.

4-days in Athens Greece itinerary

How to organize your time in Athens to see all of these wonders, along with great food and drink suggestions and locals’ tips?

No matter how many days in Athens you are able to spare, follow this day-by-day itinerary to cover them all plus more.

Swap the days around if it suits you, but I would always see the Acropolis and surrounding area first.

Day 1 – Acropolis Area and National Gardens

(this day is all on foot, so wear comfortable shoes)

Start your exploration with a Greek morning staple in your hand – a cappuccino or espresso freddo – and head to the Acropolis area for the best part of the city’s ancient sites.

Acropolis tickets – get yourself a skip-the-line ticket beforehand to save precious time (especially worthy during the hot summer days) and visit the Parthenon and the sites first, before the sun gets too high.

• By far the most popular ticket (that I have bought about a dozen times so far) combines the Acropolis with other sites and is the best-value ticket. You can get your Acropolis and 6 Archaeological Sites ticket here.
• The best skip-the-line express ticket for the Acropolis monuments is here .
• The best combo skip-the-line express ticket for the Acropolis and the Acropolis Museum is here .
• The best guided tours of the Acropolis are here.

The panoramic vistas are just amazing and on a clear day, you will see Athens rolling out to the seaside.

TIP: The best place to photograph the Acropolis is from the adjoining Philopappos Hill, just a short stroll from the Acropolis through a lightly forested area.

Once in and around the Acropolis, do not miss the Odeon and the small Athena Nike temple, a masterpiece by the ancient architect Kallikrates.

From there, either make a lunch break in the trendy Koukaki district below the Acropolis.

Veikou Street is dotted with great eateries, but if you prefer a snack, grab one of the best toasted sandwiches in Athens –  Guarantee  at Veikou 41, or continue straight to the  Acropolis museum .

In the  Acropolis museum , marvel at the different rooms where the artifacts found around the Acropolis from the Greek Bronze Age to the Byzantine period.

But most of all, you’ll be delighted at the marble replicas from the Parthenon Frieze, (while we all await for the originals to be returned from The British Museum!)

Take a coffee break if you’re still not sufficiently caffeinated (and satisfy your sweet tooth at  Vanilia Bistro  (at Veikou 40).

Now it is time to visit the  National Garden  and the ancient site of the  Temple of Olympian Zeus,  along with the  Zappeion Hall  and the  Panathenaic Stadium  across the street.

The National Gardens are 24 acres of downtown Eden. Stroll around its gazebos and cottages and discover hidden fountains surrounded by lush vegetation and the people of Athens enjoying themselves.  

If staying in Plaka, take a Lysicrates Street back and check out the ancient  Arch of Hadrian  on one side of the street and the ancient  Lysicrates Monument  and its lively square on the other side.

Next climb to  the Anafiotika  part of Plaka, a hillside neighborhood resembling in architecture and layout a Cyclades island.

Finish the day by going to  Nolan  (Greek-Asian fusion by Greek-Japanese chef Sotiris Kontizas) or  Byzantino Taverna  (typical Greek food).

Day 2 – Syntagma Square, Ermou Street, Monastiraki, Psiri, and the National Archaeological

(another day on foot, no transportation needed)

Start your day with fresh juice from Salt or Sugar (Chairefontos 10) before heading to  Syntagma Square  for the  changing of the guards’  ceremony.

The Evzones , a special unit of the Hellenic army, guard the  Tomb of the Unknown Soldier  in perfect stillness, only to change every hour, on the hour. The special livery (even more pompous than the usual one) ceremony is every Sunday at 11 am.

TIP: Continue to the nearby historic 11 flower shops, flanking the Parliament building since 1932, to watch the guards marching to their spot with spring flowers in the background.

Head down along Syntagma Square to reach Ermou Street, the main shopping street of Athens, for a taste of the real living and breathing city.

As the street is downhill, just follow it till you reach the  Kapnikarea  church .    

Exploring Athens means losing yourself in the Monastiraki and Psyri area, making sure to check out those tiny shops and ateliers, go through the wonders of Athens’ antique shops, and sample lots of street food (and deli shops like Karamanlidika tou Fani).

You’ll pass (especially in Psyri), unique Athens street artists, and you can learn more about Athens Street Artist locations here , and the best Athens Street artists here.

Continue your day around the Hadrian’s Library, Ancient Agora, and the Roman Agora (with my favorite  The Tower of the Winds  all-marble ancient meteoroidal tower) before going to the  Athens Central Market  (Varvakios market) for another dose of the real living city of Athens.

TIP: Don’t miss the famous Diporto tavern, set in the basement of an uninhabited building since 1887, not changing much. No more than two or three dishes, washed down by the white wine from the wall-leaning barrels for the perfect, yet unlikely, gastronomic experience.

Leave your afternoon free to stroll through the amazing  National Archaeological Museum,  where some of the most famous ancient artifacts are, including the Mask of Agamemnon .

Day 3 – Goulandris Museum, Museum of Cycladic Art, Benaki Museum, Pangrati, and Kolonaki areas

Feast on bougatsa and Greek coffee for breakfast (best done at  Bougatsadiko Psirri , Pl. Iroon 1 where you can also watch the master bakers make this sweet custard filo-based pastry) before getting to Goulandris Museum (take the trolleybus no. 2 or 4 or 11 and get off at the station Ag. Spyridon) for a visit.

Since Goulandris is in the  Pangrati  area, Athens’ trendiest neighborhood, go for a stroll and visit the famous  Hotel Chelsea café bar , lively  Varnava Square  and check out the house of Greece’s Nobel Prize poet Giorgos Seferis in Agras Street.

From there, if you feel like walking through the lush forest of the  Ardittos Hill  above the  Kallimarmaro stadium , just hit  Archimidous Street  and continue up passing pine, eucalyptus, and cypress trees until you reach the top where the high court of ancient Greece was located.

If you visit on Friday, you will find a farmer’s market along Archimidous Street. The best of Athens’s Michelin-star restaurants is in Pangrati too –  the Spondi  (Pirronos 5 Str.)

Take the Irodou Attikou Street back. Irodou Attikou is a stately street where the presidential mansions are on one side and the National Garden on the other, making it a perfect setting for a posh promenade.

Then decide to visit either the Museum of Cycladic Art or Benaki Museum for ancient Greek art and more.

Relax during the afternoon around the classic Athenian neighborhood of Kolonaki, where the high-end shopping, designer boutiques, and fancy restaurants are.

End your evening with gourmet street snacks at Dexameni, before treating yourself to a night out in an adjoining open-air cinema (Dexameni Outdoor Cinema), an absolute favorite summer pastime of Athenians.     

Day 4 – Day Trips from Athens

Athens attractions are many, but you can also make the best out of your last day in Athens and do an excursion to some of Greece’s best sites that are just a few hours away.

Athens is a transport hub, so you can choose between a suburban rail system that goes all the way to the Peloponnese (great for visiting archaeological sites of Mycenae and Corinth ) or even Meteora!

Or, you can take a ferry from the Piraeus port of Athens (now connected by metro to the Athens airport) and visit some of the nearby islands, like Hydra.  

City trams can take you to Vouliagmeni Lake or Glyfada and Voula beach areas. Or book a ride to Cape Sounion for the most amazing sunsets to top off your Athens visit.

Day Trip Suggestions from Athens

Argo-saronic islands.

These islands close to Athens include Hydra , Aegina , and Poros.

🛥️ Best Day Trip to the Argo-Saronic Islands from Athens: FROM ATHENS: HYDRA, POROS, AND AEGINA DAY CRUISE WITH LUNCH

Central and Northern Greece

Delphi  (together with the Treasury of the Athenians, Temple of Apollo, the Sacred Way, Stadium, Theater, and the Museum) or  Meteora  with the sky-high monasteries (the Monastery of the Holy Trinity was featured in the For Your Eyes Only James Bond movie).

🏛️ Best Delphi Day Trip from Athens: FROM ATHENS: DAY TRIP TO DELPHI AND ARACHOVA

🚞 Best Meteora Day Trip from Athens: FROM ATHENS: FULL-DAY RAIL TOUR TO METEORA W/ HERMIT CAVES

Peloponnese

Ancient Olympia , Ancient Mycenae , and Ancient Corinth are also incredible day trips from Athens close by in the Peloponnese regio n. If you have time for only one, I would visit Ancient Mycenae.

🏛️ Best Ancient Olympia Day Trip from Athens: ANCIENT OLYMPIA FULL-DAY PRIVATE TOUR FROM ATHENS

🏛️ Best Ancient Mycenae Day Trip from Athens: FROM ATHENS: MYCENAE AND EPIDAURUS FULL-DAY TOUR

🏛️ Best Ancient Corinth Day Trip from Athens: CORINTH HALF-DAY SMALL GROUP TOUR FROM ATHENS

Atticus (around Athens)

Athens Riviera including Vouliagmeni Beach and the Cape Sunion.

My favorite southern Attica day trip is most definitely the completely awesome Temple of Poseidon at Cape Sounion overlooking the Aegean Sea – the sunset tours are incredible.

🏛️ Best Temple of Poseidon and Cape Sounion day trip from Athens:  ATHENS: CAPE SOUNIO & POSEIDON TEMPLE TRIP WITH AUDIO GUIDE

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Lonely Planet's guide to Athens

Nov 11, 2023 • 8 min read

Here are things a traveler should know on their first trip to Athens, one of the world's most storied cities © Lisa Schaetzle / Getty Images

Founded in 508 BCE, Athens is one of the oldest cities in the world and it's regularly touted as one of the Mediterranean’s best capital cities to visit. From the iconic Parthenon and the unique street art rivaling that of Berlin  to the city's glittering coastline, there’s so much to see and do in this ancient capital. 

One thing’s for sure: whether you’re into architecture, mythology, ancient sites, modern art or simply relaxing by the beach, Athens has something for everyone.

When should I go to Athens?

Greece generally attracts most people during the summer months (June to August) and Athens is no different, but we recommend visiting in the spring and autumn to avoid the heat. These shoulder seasons – March to May and September to October – offer cooler temperatures and a more comfortable travel experience overall. It’s also worth remembering that Athens is a humid place thanks to its coastline, which creates humid heat in the summer and gives the winter cold an extra chill. Consider this when packing and bring layers for all seasons.

Greek Orthodox Easter usually falls in April or May and the run-up to it, plus the event itself, is a huge celebration in the Greek calendar – even more so than Christmas. Expect street carnivals to mark the end of Lent and street processions to the various neighborhood churches on the Easter weekend, culminating in Mass and a huge meal on the Easter Sunday with a lamb on the spit. 

Restaurant prices won’t change much throughout the year, but accommodation prices do vary.  The same four-star hotel located near the Acropolis could be €140 per night in March and jump up to €320 in June for a weekend date, with Easter time seeing similar price rises.  It’s often cheaper to book directly, and hotels generally only publish their prices about two to three months in advance. 

How much time should I spend in Athens?

Many Europeans come to Athens for a weekend break, and long-haul travelers often use the city as as a stopover on the way to the Greek islands. 

You can get an initial taste of the city in two days, but we recommend a longer stay to truly understand the essence of this ancient capital. With four days, you can spend a day and a half at the capital’s famous sights, spend an afternoon wandering its neighborhoods , and still have time time to explore the beaches and ancient ruins of the Athenian coastline for a day or two.

Is it easy to get in and around Athens?

Located at the crossroads between Europe and the Middle East, Greece (and Athens in particular) attracts many tourists, which means the travel infrastructure is well developed and easy to use. Athens International Airport is 33km (21 miles) and a 30- to 45-minute drive – or a 45-minute metro ride – from the city center. There are also good ferry connections to Greece from Italy, with coach or rail services to and from Athens. 

Island hoppers will set out from the port of Piraeus , which is 45km (28 miles) from the airport and 10km (6 miles) from the city center. Piraeus is well linked to both the center (20 minutes by metro) and airport (a 24-hour bus service that takes about 90 minutes).

Public transport around Athens itself is easy, accessible and affordable, with a single ticket valid for a 90-minute journey and costing a mere €1.20. There is also a range of ticket deals, including  tourist passes lasting three and five days. 

The four modes of transport in Athens are:

• the very clean metro system . Note: no food is allowed.
• the overground train that connects the center to Piraeus port and other mainland destinations.
• an extensive network of  buses and electric trolleys . These primarily run to urban neighborhoods beyond the touristic center. 
• a tram service that connects the city center to the Athens coast and its beaches in about an hour.

After you’ve gotten yourself from the airport to the city center, most of Athens’s popular sights sit within a compact, walkable area. Just be aware of the traffic – cars don’t always immediately stop at red lights, and motorbikes occasionally mount the sidewalk to park.

Top things to do in Athens

Naturally, many visitors head straight to the Acropolis and the  Parthenon , Athens' most notable sights. The Acropolis has a daily visitor’s cap to avoid overcrowding and to preserve the ancient monument, so be sure to book your tickets in advance. It’s not really necessary to have a guide for the Acropolis – which can be booked on site – unless you’re very interested in dates and knowing the intricacies of ancient Greek history.

At the foot of the Acropolis lies the impressive Acropolis Museum , which showcases treasures from the Archaic to Roman periods, plus a stunning glass floor that reveals the excavated ruins underneath it. There’s also a terraced restaurant on the top floor with gorgeous views across to the monument.

Ancient artifacts crop up all over the city in random places, too; the metro stations of Monastiraki, Akropoli and Syntagma are like mini museums in their own right, and there's even ruins of a Roman tomb in a glassed-off area of the Zara clothing store on the shopping street of Ermou.

If it’s shopping you’re into, pedestrianized Ermou St is the place to go. It runs for nearly a mile from the Acropolis area up to Parliament in Syntagma Square, and features tons of fashion brands such as Mac, Desigual and the aforementioned Zara, plus a huge H&M. Greece’s main department store, Attica, is also here, and it's a great place to stock up with your holiday essentials. 

Looking for free and low-cost things to do in Athens ? Meander along the streets of Monastiraki flea market on a Sunday to peruse all the random wares for sale (everything from old drachma coins to shop mannequins), or take a stroll through the National Garden  next to the Parliament building, with its many species of plants and parrots flying freely. Witness the changing of the evzones (presidential guards) on the hour outside the Tomb of the Unknown Soldier , or make your way to  Filopappou Hill /Hill of the Muses with its pine forest – a great destination on a hot day thanks to its abundant shade. Be sure to head up here at sunset for views across to the Saronic Gulf.

My favorite thing to do in Athens

As an aficionado of street art, I love exploring the burgeoning street art scene here and getting to know the various neighborhoods where it proliferates. Take in the famous Praying Hands Mural just off Omonia Sq, for example, which depicts Jesus praying for the people down on Earth – a play on Albrecht Dürer’s Praying Hands (1508).

I also love wandering around the hidden village of Anafiotika , which sits beneath the northeast side of the Acropolis. A sub-district of Plaka, it was built in the mid-1800s when King Otto brought in workers from the Greek island of Anafi to construct his palace. Homesick, the workers set about making their neighborhood a replica of their homeland, building white, sugar-cubed houses with flat stone roofs and brightly painted wooden doors and shutters, like those found in the Cyclades. Pink and white bougainvilleas wind their way up these buildings, several of which have roof gardens. 

Anafiotika is a bit difficult to find, but worth the effort. Start at the Acropolis main entrance, and walk to your left along the path; keep the monument to your right until you reach the Church of Metamorphosis. Continue straight past the church and follow the wider path up a steep hill. The path turns right and runs into stairs – this is the start of the island village.

How much money do I need for Athens?

Athens isn’t an expensive place to visit compared to other European destinations, especially outside of the high summer season when prices rise significantly.

• Hostel dorm room: approx. €26 per night
• Basic room for two: €36–128, depending of style of hotel and location
• Self-catering apartment: €65 per day
• Public transport ticket: €1.20 for a 90-minute journey, €10 from the airport, €4.10 for a day pass, €20 for a three-day pass including one airport journey, €8.10 for a five-day pass (not including airport)
• Coffee: €2–2.50
• Typical Greek gyros with salad and fries: €2–3
• Dinner for two: €30 (add €2.50 for beer or wine)
• Beer at a pub: €2.50+

What do I need to know before going to Athens?

Bring layers, no matter the season 

As Athens is located on the coast, it’s sticky in the summer and quite chilly in the spring, fall and winter evenings. Layers are always a good idea: think T-shirts, light sweaters and a jacket for the cooler months. For the really hot summer months, bring a sports cooling towel to wrap around your neck to cool off as you explore.

Be aware of your belongings on the metro

As with any capital or big city, pickpockets can take advantage of large tourist crowds, especially on crowded public transport. Avoid hanging large cameras around your neck and keep your backpack in front of you. You may also want to invest in a hanging cord for your cell phone to loop across your body so it can’t be snatched from your hands.

No flushing toilet paper!

The plumbing in Athens is antiquated and the pipes tend to be very narrow. Flushing paper down the toilet will clog things up, so you’ll always find a bin with bag inside it in the bathroom for you to place toilet paper inside. This is removed daily by housekeeping.

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Athens for how many days? One to Three days

Athens is not only the capital of Greece, but it also frequently serves as a mediation point for visitors who want to go to the Greek islands or explore the mainland. The long history and rich culture of Athens have made this city an interesting destination in Greece, particularly for its fine archaeological sites.

In brief, it is recommended to stay at least 3 full days in order to visit the most impressive and significant sights, taste the traditional cuisine and shop leisurely.

You will find below our excursion suggestions for 1, 2, or 3 days in Athens Greece. We have compiled a list of the top things to do to help you schedule your vacation itinerary.

One day: Tour around the Acropolis

The best way to explore Athens is by walking. Driving in the city center is not recommended due to the traffic and the limited parking areas. After all, the majority of archaeological places are accessible by metro and city buses.

The most famous ancient site of Athens is certainly the sacred rock of the Acropolis . On this rock, you will see the Parthenon, the jaw-dropping temple dedicated to the goddess Athena, the Propylaea (Gates), the temple of Erechtheion and the temple of Athena Nike. Constructed in the 5th century BC, at the time of the famous statesman Pericles, this monument stands as a reminder of the ancient Greek culture and remains an architectural masterpiece.

To go to the Acropolis, you have to take the metro to Akropoli Station (one stop after Syntagma on the Red Line). The station is also 15 minutes from Syntagma Square and 20 minutes from Thission Station (Green Line) on foot. On the foothills of the Acropolis, sit the Theatre of Dionysus and the Theatre of Herodes Atticus , where open performances and music concerts are held in summer. The single-use ticket to the Acropolis is priced at 20 EUR, while the combined (including the Ancient Agora, Handrian's Library, Kerameikos, Aristotle's School, Roman Agora and Olympieion) costs 30 EUR. You can buy tickets on-site or book a tour of the Acropolis including entry tickets in advance.

Just opposite the Acropolis lies the New Acropolis Museum . It was inaugurated in June 2009 and hosts findings from excavations in the site of the Acropolis and the surrounding area. Made of glass and illuminated by natural light, this museum has been built on top of excavations, which visitors can see through the glass.

After taking the pedestrian road on the left of the museum, you will pass through beautiful Neoclassical buildings and then reach a crossroad. Take the small path on the left and you will encounter the burial monument of Filopappos , a Roman general, located on a verdant hill which is ideal for relaxation.

Go back to the crossroad and after another 10 minutes on foot, you will reach Thissio , the most elegant neighborhood in the center of Athens with Neoclassical buildings and lovely cafeterias. Make a stop and enjoy your coffee under the shadow of the Acropolis. This is the locals' most frequent coffee spot.

The Ancient Agora , the place where the Athenians used to gather and discuss political issues, starts from Thissio. There, you can see the impressive temple of Hephaestus. Right next to it lies the Roman Agora , used as a marketplace. There, you can see the Stoa of Attalos with the interesting museum and the Library of Hadrian.

If you follow the path from Thissio through the Ancient Agora and the Roman Market, you will arrive in Monastiraki . There, you can wander the souvenir and antique shops of the flea market.

For the evening, we suggest a stroll in Plaka , the most traditional neighborhood of Athens near Monastiraki. Narrow paths, beautiful houses with gardens, small churches, and the neat district of Anafiotika make the architecture of Plaka stand out. There, you can have dinner in one of the delicious Greek taverns.

View on map: First day in Athens

Two days: Athens City Centre and Cape Sounion

1st day as described above. On the second day , you start with a visit to Omonoia . If your hotel is not close to the neighborhood, you can take the metro and stop at Omonoia Station (Red and Green Lines). The square actually doesn't have much to see, as it is surrounded by shopping malls, but the emblematic fountain will impress you. Some street sellers and performers can be seen and this is considered as one of the most declined spots in Athens. The National Archaeological Museum is located within a 10-minute distance from Omonia and its rooms cover the entire history of Greece, from prehistoric to modern times.

From Omonoia, you can follow Panepistimiou Avenue, which leads to Syntagma Square. On your way, you will be able to admire the Academy of Athens and the National Library of Greece , two gorgeous Neoclassical buildings surrounded by statues of ancient gods. On both sides of the avenue, you will see malls, cafes, large shops, and theaters.

Syntagma Square is actually considered the center of Athens. The most dominant building is the Hellenic Parliament , an austere structure that used to be the royal palace in the 19th century. The changing of guards is a unique sight to observe. It takes place right in front of the Parliament every hour.

If you enjoy museums, note that many interesting museums are located around Syntagma, including the Numismatic Museum and the Benaki Museum .

On the south of Syntagma Square, there is the pedestrian Ermou Street, the most commercial street in Athens. Along Ermou, which ends in Monastiraki, you can see the small Byzantine church of Panagia Kapnikarea. Monastiraki is located at the end of the street.

Right next to the Parliament, there is a relaxing spot that allows you to detach from the noise of the streets. The National Garden was created by the order of Queen Amalia, the wife of King Otto and the first queen of Greece, in the 1830s. Numerous kinds of trees, from common to tropical, can be observed inside the garden. In addition to the plants, rivers with wooden bridges, a small botanical museum, a coffee shop, and a small zoo are also housed within the area.

After crossing the gardens, you will see Zappeion Megaron , an impressive Neoclassical building where exhibitions take place frequently. Right opposite the garden of Zappeion is the Kallimarmaro , an impressive Roman stadium all made of marble. Within a 10-minute walking distance from Kallimarmaro, you can visit the temple of Olympian Zeus , the Roman Arch of Hadrian , and the First Cemetery of Athens .

For the evening, we suggest a tour of the Temple of Poseidon in Cape Sounio. Tour buses that go all the way to Sounio, the southernmost cape of Attica, depart frequently from the central parts of Athens. Buses pass by many coastal regions, like Glyfada, Vouliagmeni and Varkiza, and reach the temple in about an hour. The cape is considered one of the most romantic spots in Attica since you get to gaze at gorgeous views of the Aegean Sea.

View on map: Second day in Athens

Three days: Kerameikos and Piraeus

1st and 2nd day as described above. The third day is more relaxing. The day should start with a visit to the ancient cemetery of Keramikos. To go there, you can take the metro to Thissio (Green Line) or Monastiraki (Blue Line) and walk for a couple of minutes. After visiting the site, walk to Technopolis Gazi, an old gas factory that has now turned into a cultural center.

The architecture in the yard of Technopolis is really interesting and reminiscent of a filming studio or a factory. Right next to the Technopolis is the square of Kerameikos, a nice place for a morning coffee or a drink at night.

From the Kerameikos Metro Station, you can go to Monastiraki and then follow the Green Line to Piraeus - the biggest port of Greece where most ferries to the Greek islands depart from. Piraeus is a town with ample squares and lovely cafeterias by the sea. In a 20-minute walking distance from the metro station lies Pasalimani, a small harbor with yachts and fishing boats. If you follow the pedestrian path by the sea, you will reach Marina Zeas, another popular coffee spot by the sea. In Marina Zeas, you can also visit the Nautical Museum of Piraeus.

For an evening drink, we suggest Mikrolimano, a popular spot with clubs and lounge cafeterias by the sea. as well as taverns and fish restaurants to enjoy a meal. To reach it, you can take the tram from Pasalimani or the metro (Green Line) and disembark at Neo Faliro.

View on map: Third day in Athens

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3 days in Athens: an itinerary for first-time visitors

Roxanne de Bruyn

• Three days in Athens

Planning a trip to Athens? Here are our top picks...

Stay: Asomaton , a boutique hotel near the major sites

Walking tour: Athens highlights

Experience: the sunset at Cape Sounio

Day trip: cruise to the Saronic islands

Food tour: Athens for foodies

Organised tour : 3 days (2 nights) in Athens

With a history spanning thousands of years, Athens is many travellers’ introduction to Greece. Athens is a sprawling city but many of the major sites are close together and despite initial appearances, the city can be very accessible to visitors.

If you take some time to get to know the city, you’ll discover that Athens is well worth visiting . Underneath the grit, you'll find some vibrant neighbourhoods, quirky shops and a range of modern museums, along with the ancient Greek ruins which are visible throughout the city.

This Athens itinerary includes the famous landmarks and gives you a taste of some popular, but lesser-visited neighbourhoods which showcase different sides of this fascinating city.

How long should I spend in Athens?

Given the size of the city, three days is a good amount of time to spend in Athens. This gives you enough time to visit the main attractions without being too rushed and allows you to see some of the city.

That said, if you just want to see the Acropolis before heading on to the islands , you can do that in one day (see day 1 of the itinerary below or squeeze in as much as you can with this full-day tour ).

Personally, I would recommend at least five days in Athens to give yourself time to recover from jet lag and culture shock, get to know the city, and actually enjoy your time there. However, I do understand that most travellers won't be spending long enough in Greece to be able to dedicate that much time to Athens.

So, this is a three-day itinerary, which covers major sites and some interesting areas in Athens. If you aren't sure where to stay in Athens , pick one of the areas near the Acropolis (Plaka is popular with tourists, but Koukaki, Psyri and Thissio are also good options).

Food in Greece is generally very good so I haven't included recommendations for restaurants or cafes - just pick somewhere that looks appealing to you. I have also included some more ideas of things to do if you are spending longer in the city.

Day 1: Plaka and the Acropolis

Many first-time visitors to Athens will find themselves staying in Plaka, the beautiful neighbourhood at the foot of the Acropolis. The most famous landmark in Athens, the Acropolis is home to buildings which have stood overlooking the city for over 2,500 years.

On your first full day, head up to the ruins after breakfast to avoid the crowds and the heat (particularly if you’re visiting in summer). You can book a ticket for a specific timeslot in advance and it's recommended to be at the entrance half an hour before your booked time.

If you enjoy museums and ancient sites, consider buying a combination ticket which includes entry into many Athenian attractions, including the Acropolis. Otherwise, if you don't have a good understanding of ancient Athens, doing a guided tour can give you some insight and context into what you're seeing.

At the top of the hill, you’ll find yourself standing at the foot of the Parthenon , probably the most famous Greek ruin in the world. Built between 447 and 438 BCE, the Parthenon was a temple to Athena, the patron goddess of the city.

The ancient temple is huge and is in a constant state of restoration. No matter how many times you’ve been to Athens, there’s something magical about the Acropolis and the beautiful building sitting high on the hill over this sprawling city.

There are other interesting sites on the Acropolis too. Along the north side, you’ll see the Erechtheion , where the porch is supported by six columns in the shape of draped women.

The Theatre of Dionysus sits on the slopes of the hill (conveniently on the way to the Acropolis Museum) and is an impressive sight. And don’t be tempted to skip the Acropolis Museum where many of the treasures from this ancient hill are on display.

Take a break in your hotel after all that walking, then spend the afternoon exploring Plaka . A lovely option is to take a stroll up the slopes of the Acropolis to Anafiótika , where you’ll find a small cluster of white, island-style homes, reminiscent of Santorini.

Enjoy wandering the streets, peeking into the odd shop, and stopping for a drink at a taverna, before picking a spot for dinner.

Day 2: Syntagma Square, The National Archaeological Museum and Exarcheia

Today, venture out of Plaka and visit some of Athens most important landmarks. Start with the ancient agora , then check out Syntagma Square , the centre of Athens’s modern history and home to the Greek Parliament Building .

Visit the Tomb of the Unknown Soldier and watch the changing of the guard (it takes place on the hour). And, while you’re in the area, see the Panathenaic Stadium , the marble arena from the first century that hosted the first modern Olympic Games in 1896.

Then stop for lunch at on Ermou Street , where you can have your pick of local or international food.

After lunch, continue north through the city to the National Archaeological Museum . This museum has best collection of ancient Greek artefacts in the world and is a vital stop on your visit to Athens. The collections are displayed simply and clearly, with many some of remarkable pieces are astounding.

You can spend the whole afternoon here if you wish, otherwise look around for a couple of hours, then make your way to gritty Exárcheia.

Historically, Exárcheia was infamously home to revolutionaries, anarchists, students and artists. Now it’s home to some interesting restaurants, bars and bookshops and makes a great place for an afternoon stroll or evening drink. Then, take the metro back to your hotel and take some time to recover from your busy day.

After a break, head to the other side of the Acropolis to Thissío for dinner. Here you’ll find many great restaurants and bars, many with rooftop seating and gorgeous views of the Acropolis.

If you want more nightlife, walk a few blocks down the road to Iroon Square in neighbouring Psyri where you’ll find bars and clubs open until late.

Day 3: Kolonaki, Mount Lycabettus and the Museum Quarter

After a couple of busy days, you can pack as little or as much into the day as you wish. After breakfast, spend the morning in Kolonáki , Athens’ most upmarket central neighbourhood. If you enjoy shopping, this is the place for you!

If you don’t, Kolonaki is still worth visiting as it’s also home to the museum quarter, Mount Lycabettus and the National Gardens. The contrast between Kolonáki and the commercial centre is also palpable.

For some of the best views of the city, go up Mount Lycabettus , the highest summit in central Athens. You can take a funicular up the hill, if you’ve had enough of walking.

At the foot of the hill, stroll past large houses, palaces, embassies and museums. If you enjoy people watching, stop for coffee or lunch at one of the cafes that line Kolonáki Square .

This area is also known for its museums and galleries, making it a great option for wet weather. Highlights include the Benaki Museum of Culture and the Goulandris Museum of Cycladic Art , both which have huge collections of art and artifacts from prehistoric to modern Greece.

The Byzantine Museum is also a wonderful place to spend a few hours. One of the best museums in Athens, it has an enormous collection of about 25,000 items from the 3rd century AD through to medieval times.

A few blocks down, is The National Gallery , with a wide selection of art. Or, if you’ve had enough of museums for a while, head to the National Gardens and enjoy some natural beauty in the extensive grounds.

Spend your last evening in the rooftop bars and restaurants of Monastiraki Square in the centre of Athens.

If you have more time in Athens

There are several wonderful sites in Athens that we haven’t covered yet in this itinerary.

Here are a few of the highlights we’ve missed, which you may want to squeeze into your trip, particularly if you have another day in the city.

Kerameikos Cemetery is one of the most important archaeological sites in Athens and is often missed by visitors. The cemetery was used from the 12th Century BCE for a thousand years and many famous Athenians are buried on site. The pottery grave markers are replicas, with the originals being displayed at the National Museum. The ancient walls of Athens are on this site, along with the Sacred Gate which was exclusively used by pilgrims walking the Sacred Way to Eleusis every year. Entry to the cemetery is included in the combination ticket.

The Central Market of Athens is a wonderful place to spend some time if you enjoy food. It’s a covered market with a huge range of options and can be overwhelming if it’s your first time visiting. Many food tours in Athens involve a visit to the market and some of the great surrounding eateries.

Take your time exploring Ermou Street , browsing through the shops and stopping for coffee, lunch and drinks along the way.

Cape Sounion and the Temple of Poseidon is on the Athenian coast and makes a wonderful day trip from the city. You can go independently or join an organised tour .

If you aren’t visiting the islands this trip, another great option is to do a day trip to one of the nearby islands - Aegina, Hydra and Poros are all good options. It’s a wonderful way to get a taste of the Greek Islands, really close to the mainland.

If you are planning on visiting some of the Greek islands next, consider spending a night or two in Piraeus , Athens’s port, before you go. Many ferries leave early in the morning, and staying close by is a good idea.

Piraeus has a bustling centre with a range of restaurants and ancient sites.Outside of the centre, the pretty Kastella neighbourhood is known for the 19th Century mansions tucked into the hillside.

At the foot of that hill, the secluded harbour of Mikrolimano has a seaside town vibe and feels like it’s a world away from the crowded city.

If you aren’t spending much time on mainland Greece, you can also consider doing a day trip to the Peloponnese. The Theatre of Epidaurus is an easy day trip from Athens and well worth seeing, and is usually combined with Myceane and Nafplio .

If you don’t mind spending a long time in the car, you can also do day trip to Ancient Olympia , Meteora or Delphi from Athens, although it is a long way to go in one day.

Where to next

From Athens, many travellers spend some time on one of the beautiful Greek Islands . Mykonos and Santorini are favourites however there are many other islands to choose from.

If you want to explore mainland Greece , consider spending a couple of days in the beautiful coastal town of Nafplio in the Peloponnese. This is a particularly good choice if you want to visit some of the ancient sites on the mainland – Nafplio is relatively close to both the Theatre of Epidaurus and Ancient Olympia. From then, you can continue on to Delphi in central Greece.

Planning a trip to Athens? Read our guide on where to stay in Athens or our tips about what to know before you visit .

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Author - Roxanne de Bruyn

Roxanne is the founder and editor of Faraway Worlds. She is a freelance writer and guidebook author and has written for several travel publications, including Lonely Planet and The Culture Trip. With a background in communications, she has studied ancient history, comparative religion and international development, and has a particular interest in sustainable tourism.

Originally from South Africa, Roxanne has travelled widely and loves learning the stories of the places she visits. She enjoys cooking, dance and yoga, and usually travels with her husband and young son. She is based in New Zealand.

Last Updated 24 March 2024

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Home > How Many Days In Athens Is Enough? Plan Your Athens Itinerary

How Many Days In Athens Is Enough? Plan Your Athens Itinerary

Written by our local expert SJ

Sarah-Jane has lived in Croatia for 10+ years. SJ, as she is known, has been traveling the Balkans & beyond since 2000. She now shares her passion for traveling with her husband & kids.

Are you wondering how many days in Athens is enough? Well, here is your guide to planning your Athens trip, with itinerary options to help. 

Are you planning a trip to Athens but unsure how many days you need to soak up all the sights and sounds this ancient city offers? Look no further! In this guide, we’ll help you plan your perfect itinerary by answering the burning question:

How many days in Athens is enough for my first time trip?

The first time, I spent a week in Athens, and still felt like I could have stayed longer! From exploring iconic landmarks like the Acropolis and Parthenon  to immersing yourself in local culture through food and drink, we’ll show you how to spend your time in Athens.

So, pack your bags and prepare for an unforgettable adventure in one of Europe’s most historic cities; Athens is undoubtedly worth visiting.

Skip Ahead To My Advice Here!

Before You Visit Athens

Athens is one of the oldest cities in the world, with a history that dates back more than 3,000 years. The city was the birthplace of Western civilization, and its culture has been influential throughout the world.

Athens is a major tourist destination, and many visitors come to see its ancient ruins, including to visit the Acropolis and the Parthenon. The city also has a vibrant modern culture, with many museums, theaters, and restaurants.

How Many Days In Athens Is Enough

Athens is a bustling city with a lot to see and do. How many days you should spend in Athens depends on your interests and how much time you have. Generally, we recommend spending at least 3-4 days in Athens so that you can see the main sights and get a feel for the city.

If you’re interested in history, you’ll want to spend time exploring the

• The UNESCO World Heritage Site – Acropolis of Athens
• Ancient Agora
• Roman Forum

If you’re more interested in art and culture, you can visit museums like the

• National Archaeological Museum
• Benaki Museum.

Or, if you want to wander around and soak up the atmosphere, head to

• Monastiraki

Of course, there are plenty of other things to do in Athens besides sightseeing. You can enjoy

• The city’s nightlife
• Try some delicious Greek food
• Go on day trips to nearby Greek islands  like Hydra or Poros.

No matter what your interests are, Athens has something for everyone.

What To See In Athens In One Day

If you only have 24 hours to spend in Athens, you’ll want to make the most of your time! Here are some suggestions for what to do in the Greek capital.

Option One – 24 Hours

Assuming you’re starting in the morning, an excellent 24-hour Athens itinerary would be as follows:

• Start by visiting the Ancient Agora, which was the center of public life in ancient Greece . Here you can see the Temple of Hephaestus, the best-preserved ancient Greek temple;
• Then, walk to the archaeological site of the Acropolis, an ancient citadel located on a hill with great city views. The most famous building on the Acropolis is the Parthenon, a temple dedicated to Athena;
• Afterward, head down to Monastiraki Square, where you can find shops selling traditional Greek souvenirs ;
• Make your way to Hadrian’s Library, an impressive ancient library built by Roman Emperor Hadrian;
• And finally, finish up at Syntagma Square, the main square of Athens

Option Two – 24 Hours

Here is a second option for 1 full day in Athens:

• Start your day by exploring the Acropolis, one of the world’s most  famous ancient sites . Marvel at the Parthenon temple, then take in the views from the hilltop;
• Afterward, wander through the atmospheric streets of the Plaka district beneath the Acropolis ;
• In the afternoon, pay a visit to the National Archaeological Museum. This colossal museum houses some of Greece’s most important archaeological treasures, from prehistoric artifacts to sculptures from the Classical period;
• Then, head to Monastiraki Square for some relaxed people-watching and window-shopping at the city’s many vintage and antique stores;
• In the evening, enjoy a delicious Greek meal – don’t forget to try some classic dishes like dolma ( stuffed vine leaves ) or moussaka (a layered eggplant casserole);
• Finally, watch the sunset from one of Athens’ many rooftop bars 

But that’s rushed, and Athens has so much more to see. I’d recommend a minimum of 2 days (that is, two full days) on your Greece itinerary dedicated to Athens. So why not spend the weekend?

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What to see with 3 days in athens.

If you’ve got 3 or 4 days in Athens, there are still plenty more sights to see! The most popular tourist attraction is the Acropolis, which can be reached by taking a short bus or taxi ride from the city center. Other must-sees include

• The Temple of Poseidon
• The Ancient Agora

Of course, no trip to Athens would be complete without sampling some Athens street food! Head to the Central Market for fresh produce if you have accommodation with a kitchen, pick up some souvenirs, or grab a bite at one of the many cafes and restaurants lining Monastiraki Square.

In my opinion, 3 full days is the perfect amount to see the big hitters.

• Best Street Food In Athens
• 3 Days In Athens Itinerary

There’s so much to see and do in Athens; it can be hard to know where to start. But don’t worry – we’ve got you covered. Here are our top picks for things to do in Athens in three days.

• Day One: Start your first day by exploring the Acropolis. This iconic ancient site is home to the Parthenon, one of the most famous buildings in the world. After taking in the incredible views, head down into the city to wander around Plaka, the oldest neighborhood in Athens. In the evening, enjoy a delicious Greek dinner and watch some traditional Greek dancing
• Day Two: On day two, take a tour of the Ancient Agora, where Socrates used to teach. You’ll also get to see the Temple of Hephaestus, considered one of Greece’s best-preserved ancient buildings. In the afternoon, stroll around Monastiraki Square and do some shopping at the adjacent markets. In the evening, enjoy a sunset cruise around Athens’ coast
• Day Three: Spend your last day in Athens, visiting some of its outstanding museums. We recommend checking out the Benaki Museum, which houses an incredible collection of Greek art and artifacts, or the National Archaeological Museum, which is one of the largest museums of its kind in Europe. 

4 Days In Athens Itinerary

With your extra day in Athens, we suggest you take a day trip to explore more of what Greece has to offer. Great Athens day trip ideas can be found here , such as: 

• Cape Sounion

If you do not want to go island hopping, you could also check a few more Athens-based sites, such as:

• Panathenaic Stadium in Athens: site of the first modern Olympic games
• Acropolis Museum: a contemporary museum dedicated to preserving and showcasing the artifacts of the ancient Acropolis of Athens
• Changing of the guard:  a ceremonial event that takes place in front of the Hellenic Parliament at Syntagma Square
• Explore Athens on foot: wander to parts of Athens on your own and see what you find. You could easily spend a whole day doing this (and trust me, I have!)
• National Gardens: situated in the heart of the city, is a public park of historical significance

Where To Stay On Your Trip To Athens

There are so many great places to stay in Athens that it can be hard to choose! Whether you’re looking for a luxurious hotel or a cozy Airbnb, there are endless choices of accommodation options in Athens.

Here are some of our top picks:

• Hotel Grand Bretagne: This 5-star hotel is located in the heart of Athens and offers stunning views of the Acropolis . It’s the perfect place to stay if you want to be close to all the action but also have a relaxing base to return to at the end of the day.
• Apartment in Plaka: If you’re looking for a more traditional Greek experience, then staying in one of the quaint apartments in Plaka is a great option. This historic neighborhood is full of winding streets and charming cafes, and it’s just a short walk from all the main sights
• Athens Boutique Hotel: For those on a budget, this hotel is clean, comfortable, and centrally located. It’s also right next to Monastiraki Square, which is full of great shops and restaurants

Where To Stay In Athens

We have a whole post on accommodation options in Athens, which you can read here. Or you can click a specific location below

• Budget Hotels In Plaka
• Mid-Range Hotels In Plaka
• Luxury Hotels In Plaka
• Budget Hotels In Monastiraki
• Mid-Range Hotels In Monastiraki
• Luxury Hotels In Monastiraki
• Budget Hotels In Psirri
• Mid-Range Hotels In Psirri
• Luxury Hotels In Psirri
• Budget Hotels in Syntagma, Center of Athens
• Mid-Range Hotels In Syntagma
• Luxury Hotels In Syntagma
• Budget Hotels In Kolonaki
• Mid-Range Hotels In Kolonaki
• Luxurious Hotels In Kolonaki
• Best Hotel In Thisseio, Athens
• Best Hotel In Koukaki, Athens
• Best Hotel In Piraeus, Athens
• Where Not To Stay In Athens

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Where To Eat In Athens City

There are so many great places to eat in Athens that it’s hard to know where to start. Here are a few of our favorites:

• Café Boubouki: This cozy little café is perfect for breakfast or lunch. They have a great selection of pastries, sandwiches, and salads.
• Tavros Taverna: This is a fantastic place for traditional Greek food . The Souvlaki is delicious, and the Gyro platter is huge!
• Ouzeri Psistaria: This place is perfect if you want to try some traditional Greek appetizers (meze). The dolmades (stuffed grape leaves) and various fish dishes are all excellent
• Grekos Restaurant: This is a more upscale restaurant, but the food is worth it. The lamb shank with eggplant puree is amazing, as is the grilled octopus.
• Where To Eat In Athens
• What To Eat In Greece
• What To Eat For Breakfast In Greece

Tips And Tricks For Your Time In Athens

If you’re planning a trip to Athens, you might be wondering how many days you should spend in the city. While there’s no one-size-fits-all answer to this question, there are some factors to consider that can help you decide how long to stay.

Here are a few tips and tricks for visiting Athens:

• Consider your interests: w hat do you want to see and do while in Athens? If you’re interested in history and culture, you’ll need more time than if you’re looking to relax on the beach
• Check the weather: Greece is known for its sunny weather, but it can still be quite hot during summer. If you’re not a fan of heat, you might want to visit during the spring or fall when temperatures are more moderate
• Pack comfortable shoes: Athens is a city with lots of walking to do, and you’ll want to be able to explore without being in pain
• Take advantage of the city’s public transportation system:  it’s efficient and affordable, and it will help you get around quickly
• Sample the local food: Greek cuisine is delicious, and you’ll find plenty of options in Athens

Wrap Up On How Long To Spend In Athens

With so much to see and do, it can be hard to decide how many days in Athens are enough for your vacation.

After reading our guide, have you decided how many days you should spend in Athens? It’s hard, right? Ancient Athens is a city full of history, culture, and adventure that deserves to be explored – it’s worth visiting for many days.

We hope our guide has helped you plan the perfect trip for your needs, whether that’s a week or just 24 hours in Athens. Whatever you choose, there is never the right amount of time to visit Athens; there is just so much to see. 

Plenty of attractions are waiting for you in this beautiful Greek capital. Enjoy your time in Athens!

• 14 Great Day Trips From Athens
• Best Landmarks In Athens, Including the Temple of Olympian Zeus
• Guide To Psiri Neighborhood In Athens
• Where To Go Hiking In Athens
• Your Guide To Staying Safe In Athens

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Adventures of Alice

4 Days In Athens, Greece: The Perfect First-Time Itinerary

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Athens is a wonderful city with an incredible history. Although quite often used as a pit stop on the way to the Greek Islands, there are so many things to do in the city. You could easily spend 3 or 4 days in Athens (or even more than that).

We spent exactly four days in Athens and thought it was the perfect amount of time to get a feel for the city as well as explore the surroundings.

Steeped in culture and history, Athens is a bustling city. It has all the modern conveniences of any other major European city, but it also has a rustic charm and history that few cities can match.

This is the 4-day Athens itinerary that we followed when we visited the city. I’ve also included what to do, where to stay, a few important travel tips, and prices of all of Athens’ top attractions.

There are also several wonderful day trips from Athens where you can view more of Greece’s amazing sights.

My favourite travel resources for Athens

✅ This is the hotel we stayed at during our time there ✅ D on’t miss the Acropolis and y ou’ll love a day trip to Delphi . ✅ To see the best of Athens, I highly recommend hiring a car .

How to Spend 4 Days in Athens – The Perfect 4-day Itinerary

So, if you’re wondering about the best way to see Athens in 4 days, you’re in the right place.

It’s a city perfect for all types of travellers and these are the best things to add to your Athens itinerary for four unbeatable days in the city.

Day 1 – Athens Must-See Sights

On our first day of this Athens in 4 days itinerary, we’ll cross off all of the city’s major sights and historical landmarks.

9:00 – Acropolis Museum

Cost : €10 per adult

Start your first day at the Acropolis Museum. This place is full of ancient ruins and all of Athens’ most famous archaeological treasures. It’s a great place to discover the history and culture of Athens before you visit the Acropolis.

Architect Bernard Tschumi designed this fantastic museum and it replicates all five levels of Ancient Greece’s Acropolis. Inside, you’ll find many items that were discovered during recent archaeological digs such as giant statues, friezes, pottery, jewellery, and stone slabs with inscriptions found around the Acropolis itself.

✅ Book tickets for the Acropolis Museum

11:30 – The Acropolis of Athens 

Cost : €20 per adult in summer and €10 per adult in winter (Nov to March). You can also buy a combo ticket for €30 which includes entry to 6 sites.

Next, head to the city’s most iconic landmark. The Acropolis is a must-see during your 4 days in Athens – it’s probably the reason you’re in Athens in the first place, right?

It sits on top of a limestone hill in the centre of the city and is the most famous ancient site in all of Greece. It’s a great place for history buffs and you’ll get some fantastic views over Athens from up there too.

Queues can get quite long, so you can purchase your tickets online beforehand for faster entry.

I also definitely recommend buying the combination ticket .

Although this might seem expensive, it also includes entrance to the Ancient Agora, the Theatre of Dionysos, Kerameikos, Roman Agora, Tower of the Winds, and the Temple of Olympian Zeus, so it’s pretty good value for money. It also lasts for 7 days, so more than enough for a long weekend in Athens.

✅ I recommend buying the Acropolis Combination Ticket!

12:00 – Parthenon

Cost : Included in the Acropolis ticket

Although it’s technically part of the Acropolis, the Parthenon is also worth mentioning separately. The temple was built in the fifth century BC. It became a symbol of power, patriotism, peace and democracy.

The Parthenon is one of the most well-known ancient sites in Greece, a UNESCO World Heritage Site, and a must-see in Athens.

13:00 – Odeon of Herodes Atticus

The Odeon of Herodes Atticus is a reconstructed theatre located on the southwest slope of the Acropolis of Athens. Built in 161 AD, it is a colossal structure. It can accommodate over 6000 people and is still used for theatres and festivals today.

The Odeon is simply known by the locals as ‘Herodeon’. The amphitheatre-style seating has been cut into the limestone hillsides near the Acropolis, making it one of the most beautiful structures in Greece.

13:15 – Erechtheion

The Erechtheion is a temple on the north side of the Acropolis.

.Mostly known for its six Ionic columns which form an entrance to the east, it was built in 421 BC. It has two porches or colonnades, each composed of four massive pillars. The temple was dedicated to Athens and Poseidon.

14:00 – Lunch

For our next stop, we’ll be heading down towards the Ancient Agora. There are some great little restaurants located along the street here which make a perfect stop for lunch. You’ll likely pass both locals and tourists sitting in the sunshine outside.

15:00 – The Ancient Agora

Cost : €8 per adult. It’s also included in the Acropolis Combo ticket.

Athen’s Ancient Agora is one of the oldest and most complete agoras from ancient Greece. It’s located to the northwest of the Acropolis and was used as an assembly place for the democratic government. 

As well as being the centre of decision-making in Athens, the Agora was also the best place to see the city come alive as people gathered all around to hear the outcomes of the discussions. Surrounded by greenery, it’s a beautiful temple and one of the best things to see in Athens.

✅ Book tickets for the Ancient Agora

15:30 – The Temple of Hephaestus

Cost : Included in the Ancient Agora ticket.

The Temple of Hephaestus is an architectural goliath. Dedicated to Hephaestus, (the god of fire) and Athena, (the goddess of pottery and crafts), it’s one of the best-preserved temples in Athens today.

According to archaeologists, the temple was built around 450 B.C. It’s located northwest of the Ancient Agora, on top of Agoreos Koronos hill. The building is an example of typical Dorian architecture.

16:00 – Roman Agora

One of Athens’ oldest markets, the Roman Agora was once one of its busiest areas, full of street vendors selling everything under the sun. 

Not to be confused with the Ancient Agora, it was built in the 1st century BC and was mainly used as a marketplace for trading goods. There was also a selection of shops and stalls fringed by decorative columns and a central fountain. 

The ruins are located north of the Acropolis and near the Monastiraki metro station.

16:30 – Roman Bath

Cost : Free

A rather unknown attraction, the Roman Bath in Athens is a little hard to find, but it’s worth the hunt and worth adding to your 4 day Athens itinerary.

The bath is a Roman Era thermal bath complex and one of the best-preserved examples in Greece.

17:00 – Temple of Ares

Cost : Included in the Ancient Agora ticket

The Temple of Ares is a must-see during your 4 days in Athens. The Temple is an important archaeological site located near the northern part of the Ancient Agora. If you travel from Syntagma Square on foot, it can be reached in around 20 minutes. 

Originally built around the 5th century BC, it has been rebuilt several times since. When you visit make sure to take note of the stone sculptures that once lined the roofline – Zeus, Hera, Athena, Aphrodite, and Hermes which have all been beautifully restored.

17:30 – Kerameikos Archaeological Site

Cost : €8 per adult. It’s also included in the Acropolis Combo ticket

Kerameikos is one of the most important but least visited archaeological sights in Athens. It’s the cemetery of ancient Athens, used from around the 9th century BC until Roman times. 

It features a large number of marble statues, remains of public buildings, funeral offerings, archways, and thousands of tombs. You might also see some wildlife – we saw some wild tortoises and parakeets here.

18:00 – Pnyx

One for history buffs who enjoy walking tours, have an interest in photography or love gorgeous Acropolis views, then head to Pnyx. 

On a rocky outcrop overlooking the Acropolis, the Pnyx is a central hill that is just over 100 metres high in the centre of Athens. The site is in a large park and you can get some of the best views of the Acropolis from here, especially at sunset.

Day 2 – Day Trip to Delphi

For the second day of your 4 days in Athens, I recommend leaving the city for a day trip.

There are some wonderful day trips from Athens , but, if you’re into Greek history, Delphi is one of the best. The ancient city is the site of one of the most important temples dedicated to Apollo in Ancient Greece.

The ancient oracle at Delphi was said to be able to prophesize and give advice about life, death, war, marriage and more for all who sought it out. The Oracle is famous because its predictions were often scarily accurate.

Delphi was also said to be the centre of the world . According to the ancient Greeks, Zeus threw two eagles in opposite directions. They flew around the entire world and where they met (at Delphi) was the centre.

This day trip will take you on an adventure into history where you’ll see remnants of an old civilization with beautiful scenery along the way. You can even stop by the beautiful mountain town of Arachova which is just a short drive from Delphi.

How to get to Delphi

The easiest way to get from Athens to Delphi is by guided tour. We booked a tour through Get Your Guide . The tour was well-organized and the guide was knowledgeable which was a plus.

The other way to get there would be to hire a car . We did this for our Mycenae trip on day three of this Athens itinerary, and it was pretty easy to do. But more on that soon!

✅ I recommend this guided tour from Athens to Delphi

What to do in Delphi?

The tour will most likely take you to all the most famous spots in Delphi. This includes The Sacred Way, the Temple of Apollo, the Treasury of the Athenians, the Theatre, and the Stadion. But, your first stop will most likely be Tholos, the most photographed site that Delphi has to offer.

Cost : €12 per adult to enter the archaeological site and museum. The guided tour will cost around £40 which includes access to the archaeological sites and the museum.

Tholos is the best place to start because it’s the smallest site in Delphi. Built around 380 BC, Tholos is a circular ruin with 20 Doric columns on the exterior and a further 10 Corinthian columns on the interior. Only three of these columns are still standing though.

As well as the incredible history of this place, there are also some stunning views of the mountainous region surrounding Athens.

After this, you’ll follow The Sacred Way up and around the mountain until you get to all of the other sites…

The Temple of Apollo

The second most famous spot at Delphi is without a doubt, the Temple of Apollo. There is so much history here! Just walking through its ruins gives one an idea of how monumental this structure was back then. Plus, there are more breathtaking views.

This temple also houses another sight that is important for Athenians: The Omphalos which marks the centre point from which distances were measured on Earth.

Other sites within Delphi

After the Temple of Apollo, you’ll head on to the Treasury of the Athenians. This is where the wealth of Athens was once stored. It used to house war loot and offerings to Apollo.

The Theatre is next. With a history dating back to the 4th century, this astounding building had more than enough space for over 5,000 spectators. The impressive structure had 35 rows of stone benches and was built for musical contests at the Pythian Games (this was similar to the Olympic Games but on a smaller scale).

Lastly, you’ll reach the Stadion, the heart of the Pythian Games . Athletic contests, sprints and relay races used to be held here. It is located 50 meters above the theatre, at the highest point of the site.

Don’t forget to explore the Museum of Delphi too. This museum houses a variety of exhibits such as sculptures, pottery and other treasures.

Travel back to Athens

After exploring Delphi, the tour might take you to a nearby restaurant for a bite to eat before returning to Athens. The journey will take about 2.5 hours, so you’ll usually get back in the evening.

Day 3 – Corinth, Mycenae, Epidaurus, and Nafplion

For day 3 of your 4 days in Athens, head to some more of the historical wonders surrounding Athens. This includes Corinth, Mycenae, Epidaurus and the charming town of Nafplion.

For this trip, we hired a car . You can also visit these places via guided tour , but we wanted to spend a little more time in Corinth than most of the tours allowed. So we opted for car hire.

It was pretty simple. We booked it online that night, picked it up in the morning, and off we went. Aside from the initial rather hectic journey out of Athens city centre, it was quite an easy drive.

✅ I recommend this guided tour of Corinth. Or, you can hire a car.

9:00 – Corinth

Our first stop on this little Greek road trip was Corinth. Located about a 1-hour drive from Athens, the city is divided into two sides, old and new. It’s also famous for its beautiful canal, which is our first stop.

9:15 – Corinth Canal

Corinth Canal is one of the most impressive engineering feats in antiquity and is also one of the oldest artificial seaways anywhere in the world. It’s 6.3 kilometres long, 23 meters wide, and eight meters deep.

The incredible canal was dug by hand with wooden tools, a stone-faced rampant on both sides to prevent water from sloshing back out over the diggers when it rained, and an earthen dam at each end to keep rainwater flowing into the sea. 

It took about ten years for enough dirt to be moved so that ships could travel between Athens and Corinth via this mighty manmade strait.

9:45 – Ancient Corinth

Cost : €8 per adult

Next, we headed to Ancient Corinth. The ruins of this city are like a ghost town (there weren’t many tourists there either), but it’s one of the most fascinating historical sites in Greece.

We parked up with our rental car and explored on foot, taking in all of the old ruins around us.

The site has some incredible mosaics, statues, and buildings from the ancient city, complete with plaques explaining what each building used to be. Make sure you see the fascinating Doric Temple of Apollo too – the most important temple on the site.

There’s also a small archaeological museum on site that’s also worth a visit while you’re there.

11:00 – Acrocorinth

Cost : €6 per adult

Our final stop in Corinth was Acrocorinth. 

After a rather terrifying drive up a steep, zig-zagging hill, we reached this imposing fortified castle. Climb all the way to the top for fantastic views across the Isthmus and the surrounding hills of the Peloponnese .

12:30 – Mycenae

Cost : €12 per adult

After Corinth, we headed on to Mycenae. This ancient site is a great addition to any 4 days in Athens itinerary. It has important historical significance as it was the capital of Agamemnon and home to the King of Argos. Many of the ruins here, revolve around his rule.

The ruins are well preserved and there is a small museum on-site with more information about Mycenae’s history. There’s plenty to do here for an hour or so, and this was about how long we stayed.

A few must-see sights in the archaeological site of Mycenae include the famous Lion’s Gate, the Treasury of Artemis and several ginormous tombs.

The Lion’s Gate is the entrance to the citadel. It was built around 1350 BC and is one of the best-preserved Mycenean masonries in history.

The Treasury of Artemis is the name given to a circular building that was built during the 12th century BC. It was used as a temple and is surrounded by two concentric rings of columns, one of which is made out of Lion’s heads.

The Mycenean Tombs are massive structures that would have served an important function in Mycenean society.

15:00 – Nafplion

After exploring Mycenae, we drove a further 25 minutes to Nafplion. This was honestly one of my favourite places to visit in all of Greece .

The former capital of Greece has the most beautiful harbour, as well as some incredible neoclassical architecture, a hilltop castle, and some picturesque bays.

You could spend hours here simply wandering the cobbled streets, window shopping at the cute little boutique stores and sipping on a coffee in one of the many cafés.

We went back here to eat after our next stop because we found a wonderful family-owned Greek taverna and the smells coming from it were mouth-watering. It was a good choice too as the food was traditional, locally sourced, and utterly delicious.

16:30 – Epidaurus

Our final stop of the day was Epidaurus. This small city is located on the Argolis Peninsula at the Saronic Gulf and a 30-minute drive from Nafplion.

Epidaurus is mostly famous for its impressive theatre, which, along with being a must-see on your Athens itinerary, was among the largest in ancient Greece. Even today, it’s one of the best-preserved theatres from this era. 

It was constructed in the late 4th century BC, has 35 rows, and can seat an impressive 15,000 spectators. It also has some of the best acoustics of any theatre in ancient Greece.

Epidaurus is also home to the Sanctuary of Asclepius, which is a large healing centre. Evidence suggests this ancient site was used for both religious and medical purposes.

If you time this right, you should arrive at Epidaurus around sunset, where you’ll be treated to some stunning views of the sun setting over the theatre’s beautiful mountainous backdrop.

Head Back to Athens

Epidaurus marks the end of day 3 on this 4-day Athens itinerary and once we’d seen enough of this historical gem, we headed back to the car to make our way back to Athens.

The drive from here will take about 2 hours depending on traffic and will get you back in the late evening. We then jumped in the hot tub with a cold glass of wine!

Day 4 – Final Day in Athens

For your final day in Athens, explore some more of the city’s historical gems. This way, if you’re catching a flight home tonight, you’re not likely to get stuck hours from the airport in Delphi or Mycenae.

Even though this is a much more chilled-out day than the first, there are still plenty of things to see at the end of this long weekend in Athens.

10:00 – Panathenaic Stadium

Cost: €10 per adult

The Panathenaic Stadium is a monument to the first Olympics.

Loathed east of the Acropolis, it was the home of the first Olympic games and was also where the games were revived after a break of about 400 years.

It is one of Athens’ most popular historic attractions and the only stadium in the world built entirely of marble.

11:00 – Zappeio Gardens

Athens has a few parks and gardens that are worth exploring and Zappeio is one of them. Located in the centre of Athens, within walking distance from the Acropolis, this garden is a great place to visit if you want a break from exploring museums and churches.

11:30 – The Temple of Olympian Zeus

Cost : €8 per person in summer, €4 per person in winter. This is also included in the Acropolis Combination ticket.

This is a must-see for anyone visiting Athens. One of the largest temples in ancient Athens, the Temple of Olympian Zeus is a temple dedicated to Zeus.

It stands at a height of 21m without its pedestal, making it one of the tallest temples in Ancient Greece.

12:15 – Hadrian’s Arch

Built in honour of the Roman emperor Hadrian, Hadrian’s Arch is a large arch of marble. The arch was made to celebrate his visit to Athens in 131 AD and makes for one of the best photo opportunities at any time day or night.

12:45 – Plaka

The old town is a must-see on your Athens itinerary. Plaka has some lovely restaurants with little side streets that are worth exploring. The best time to go for an evening stroll would be on Pronoia Street which often hosts live music performances.

One popular stop-off point is at a small restaurant called Smak which is a great budget food option selling delicious pizza and peinirli. It’s located off Ermou Street and you can eat here for less than €5 per person. This makes this a great place to stop for lunch.

13:00 – Tomb of the Unknown Soldier

The place where the unknown soldier who died during the Greek War of Independence in 1831 is buried is called the Tomb of the Unknown Soldier.

The tomb was originally constructed to commemorate all those who fought and died for Greece. But after World War II it became a memorial for only one person as there were not any other known soldiers fighting at this time.

Top Tip: This is also a great time to have a wander around Syntagma Square. There are lots of great spots to grab a snack before we head to our next stop.

14:00 – Mount Lycabettus

For some of the best views in Athens, head to Mount Lycabettus.

The climb is worth it (although it will kill your legs), and the summit is 300 meters above sea level – the highest point in the city. 

At the top of the hill, you’ll find a pretty little blue-and-white church and a wonderful viewing platform for gorgeous Greek panoramas.

16:00 – National Gardens

There really is something quite magical about walking through these gardens, there are lots of interesting places to see like the Byzantine chapel and neoclassic gardens.

Athens’ National Gardens is a 15.5-hectare public park in the centre of Athens (between Syntagma Square and the Panathenaic Stadium). 

The park will give you some wonderful photo opportunities. There are beautiful bridges, winding pathways, small lakes, a duck pond and even a small zoo with goats, peacocks and chickens.

Top Tip : The Benaki Museum is also near here and well worth a visit if you have time.

17:00 – National Archaeological Museum

Cost : €12 per adult in summer. €6 per adult in winter.

This stop will depend on what time of year you’re visiting Athens due to the opening times of the museum. If you’re visiting in the summer months, it closes at 8pm, giving you plenty of time to explore. If you’re visiting in winter, however, it closes at 3:30pm meaning you won’t be able to visit.

But, if you want more information about ancient Greece then this is where you’ll find it. The National Archeological Museum has artefacts from some of the earliest human civilizations as well as many other displays for all ages.

This includes a fantastic section on Ancient Greek religion with statues, urns, and even mummy masks.

Home to over two million objects that date back as far as 700 BC, it’s a great addition to your 4 day Athens itinerary and an incredible resource for anyone interested in Ancient Greek culture. 

Where to stay for 4 days in Athens

Athens is quite a BIG city. However, most people would rather stay close to the centre. This will put you within walking distance of many of Athens’s top attractions (like the Acropolis).

We stayed in the city centre in a little apartment called the Urban Link Residence and didn’t have to use public transport once. We just walked everywhere (except on the day we hired a car ), which saved a lot of money.

Plus, our apartment was fantastic. It had a comfortable living space, a huge bed, and a hot tub on the balcony overlooking the Acropolis. Perfect for relaxing in the evenings with a glass of wine.

However, if you don’t fancy staying in the centre, some of the other smaller areas are just as enticing. It is important to note how each part of Athens is different and consider this when deciding where to stay.

My favourite place to stay in Athens is located slightly outside the main neighbourhoods. Check out my guide below for my top tips!

✅ Discover the best places to stay in Athens

Here are a few other great places to stay during your trip to Athens.

One of the most beautiful neighbourhoods in Athens, Plaka is a must-see. It is full of authentic markets, narrow streets and colourful buildings. However, it can be quite busy in the summer so you may want to avoid this area if you’re looking for a quieter stay. Also, expect the prices to be a little higher than in other areas. Fos Residential Apartmen ts is a great choice here.

Syntagma is another area to stay in Athens that will place you close to some of the best attractions. In fact, it’s considered THE centre of the city by the locals. You can easily walk the rest of Athens from here and it’s a great spot if you’re looking for something more lively.

Achilleas Hotel Athens is a great hotel in Syntagma. It’s close to all the action and has pleasantly decorated rooms.

Psyri is the perfect place to stay in Athens if you love nightlife. The area is home to many bars and clubs – including the wonderful bar and restaurant Klimataria . There’s always something happening at night, and you’re not likely to get bored no matter how long you stay.

One great hotel option here is the Ederlezi Boutique Hotel , which features a gorgeous rustic design and a cosy garden where you can relax during the evening.

Top Tip : To keep costs down, try staying near Monastiraki Square – one of Psyri’s neighbouring areas with slightly less foot traffic and cheaper prices! There’s a fantastic little flea market here as well!

Is Athens worth visiting?

If I were to give you one piece of advice if you’re considering visiting Greece, it would be – don’t skip Athens! This city is definitely worth visiting.

Athens may not have the sunkissed white and blue of the most popular Greek islands. However, it does have some of Greece’s best historical sites, which are well worth exploring.

How many days in Athens?

How many days in Athens was something we wondered a lot before we booked our trip. 3 or 4 days is usually enough to explore the major sites. This should be enough time to get on a few day trips as well.

Athens is surrounded by gorgeous scenery and some of my favourite historical sites in the country are just outside the Greek capital.

Ultimately, the longer you have in Athens, the better. But, Athens in 4 days is usually a great amount of time to cross a lot off your bucket list.

Is 4 days in Athens cheap or expensive?

Athens is one of the places in Europe that you can explore on a budget . Many of the major sites are free to visit and you can get a decent meal for under €10. I highly recommend street food.

On certain days of the week or when there are public holidays, you can get even more discounts. We visited on a public holiday and got free access to the Acropolis!

However, it’s worth noting that not everywhere accepts debit cards, so it’s worth carrying cash on you when possible.

Final Thoughts on Spending 4 Days in Athens Greece

Overall, Athens is one of my favourite European cities . I believe that 4 days is the perfect amount of time to get a taste of what Athens and ancient Greece has to offer. I hope that this has given some great tips on how to spend 4 days in Athens.

It’s not easy deciding where to visit first as there are so many incredible things about this historic city… but hopefully, now you’ll be able to plan your trip accordingly 🙂

My favourite tools for finding cheap travel

• SKYSCANNER – For amazing flight deals.
• BOOKING.COM – For affordable hotels and accommodation.
• SAFETY WING – For affordable, reliable travel insurance.
• DISCOVER CARS – For cheap car hire around the world.
• OMIO – For trains, coaches, and transfers.
• GET YOUR GUIDE – For attractions and tours.
• AIRALO – For a global eSim that keeps you connected.

Disclosure: Please note that some of the links above may be affiliate links, and at no additional cost to you, I earn a small commission if you make a purchase. But, I only recommend products and companies that I use and love.

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Great information and somewhere I’d love to visit. Thanks for sharing

Thank you for this great guide! I’m spending 4 days in Athens over Nee Years and I didn’t even know where to begin. This has been really helpful.

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4 Days in Athens: The Perfect Itinerary

Planning to spend four days in Athens? I have the perfect itinerary for you that will have you visiting the best of Athens and exploring Delphi. I visited Athens before heading out to spend a week in Crete and it was the perfect amount of time to visit Athens.

This full guide to Athens has the best places to stay, things to do, and the best side trips from Athens. With 3000 years of culture, delicious food, scenic views, and a vibrant city, Athens is well worth a stop when you visit Greece.

This post contains affiliate links , If you make a purchase through these links I will earn a commission at no extra cost to you. Thank you!

Planning your trip to Athens ? Below are some places to stay, things to do, and more.

• Athens Street Food Tour (My favourite Athens activity!)
• Acropolis Combo Ticket (Skip the ticket line at 7 sites!)
• Acropolis and Parthenon Guided Walking Tour (Great for history buffs!)
• From Athens: Day Trip to Delphi and Arachova
• Athens: Cape Sounion & Temple of Poseidon Sunset Tour
• Athens: The Athenians Art Apartments (Fantastic aparthotel, highly recommend)
• Athens: Amalia Hotel (Breakfast included, great location!)
• Delphi: Pan Hotel (Great breakfast, very affordable)
• Delphi: Fedriades Delphi Hotel (Beautiful rooms)

Looking to rent a car to visit Delphi?   Click here to check  Athens rental car rates !

Table of Contents

Is Athens Worth Visiting?

Athens is definitely worth visiting! My expectations for Athens were pretty low prior to visiting. Over the years I’ve read so many terrible reviews of the city: that it’s dirty, crowded, and not worth it. While visiting I found myself wondering why people say it’s a dirty city. It’s lived in, there’s street art, but these aren’t bad things. I found Athens had a lot of life. It was a pleasure to explore, the food is fantastic, and I loved being able to visit the Acropolis.

I definitely recommend Athens and I would visit again. I visited Athens and Crete and it was nice to be able to contrast the mainland with the islands.

When to Visit Athens?

I visited Athens at the end of May and found the weather to be perfect and the crowds quite manageable. I recommend visiting Athens in March to May or September to November to get warm sunny weather. From June to August in Athens you will have a lot more crowds at the Acropolis and unpleasantly hot weather. During the summer there is the risk of the Acropolis being closed due to heat.

How Many Days in Athens?

I would budget two full days in Athens to see the sights and two more days to explore around the city as day trips or side trips for four days total. I think four days in Athens is the perfect amount to see the city and nearby sights as well.

Where to Stay in Athens?

In Athens, I recommend staying around the Plaka, Syntagma, or Monastiraki neighbourhood. The Plaka is at the center of the historic area of Athens and is in easy walk to the main sights and lots of restaurants. The Syntagma neighbourhood is also very close walking distance to everything. It’s also near Syntagma Metro Station, which is a meeting spot for many tours and the metro line that connects the airport and ferry terminal. Monastiraki Square is an excellent place to stay as it is adjacent to the Plaka and has lots of nice streets to explore with many restaurant and hotel options. Whichever you choose, try to book early as hotels can get booked up and very expensive in peak times.

In Athens, I stayed at The Athenians Art Apartments and would happily stay again. The apartments are in an excellent location and are super comfortable and recently renovated.

Where to Eat in Athens?

Athens has a fantastic food scene. The first night there I joined a food tour , which was great for trying out many foods and getting an idea of how the city is and some history of their most famous foods. Other places I enjoyed in the city include: Vegan Beat – Delicious mushroom gyros and super affordable Athena’s Cook – Nice patio and delicious modern Greek style food Holy Llama – Vegan pastries, amazing croissants. Wish I could have tried more. Lukumades – Delicious Greek donuts served warm. My favourite is the pistachio. Baklavas – So many types of baklava here, chocolate, pistachio, walnut. All delicious.

4 Days in Athens Itinerary

This four-day itinerary for Athens is set up to maximize your time in the city and to nearby destinations. I flew into Athens from elsewhere in Europe so I didn’t have jetlag the first day of this trip. If you are getting off a trans-Atlantic flight, then the first day of this itinerary may feel a bit punishing.

I do recommend a rental car for the first two days of this itinerary. I booked with DiscoverCars and was very happy with the price and the ability to add insurance in advance. If you aren’t comfortable driving in Greece, there are day trip options to Delphi and Cape Sounion instead. For all your day trip options from Athens, check out my list of the best day trips from Athens .

Day 1: Hosios Loukas Monastery and Delphi

After arriving in Athens, pick up your rental car and drive towards Hosios Loukas Monastery . The monastery is a slight detour from Delphi but well worth it. The roads are well-maintained and easy to drive with rest stops with bathrooms and restaurants along the way.

Hosios Loukas Monastery is a 10th-century Byzantine UNESCO World Heritage Site. To visit, make sure you have shoulders covered and pants or a skirt that covers to your knees. Hosios Loukas is situated in a beautiful area with sweeping views of the mountains. I spent about 1.5 hours wandering around the different buildings. It was only 4 euros for entry to Hosios Loukas.

Scenic Drive to Delphi

After Hosios Loukas Monastery, continue towards Delphi . This was some of the most scenic driving I did in Greece. There are a couple of places you can pull over to take in the view of the mountains.

Explore Delphi and Enjoy Greek Food

I arrived for my visit to Delphi around 4 pm and even though it was enough time to visit the Delphi Ancient Site, I decided to spend the evening wandering Delphi’s shops and enjoying my first meal in Greece. Check in to your hotel and then explore Delphi. I stayed at Pan Hotel and loved how convenient and affordable it was and the included breakfast. Fedriades Delphi Hotel is another excellent pick. Whichever hotel you choose, try to get a room with a panoramic view of the mountains and sea so you can have a front-row seat to beautiful sunsets.

I highly recommend Taverna Vakhos for food. It was easily my favourite place to eat on this itinerary. It does fill up so it’s worth it to make a reservation. The restaurant has views of the Gulf of Corinth and has excellent service with a complimentary baklava dessert.

Day 2: Delphi, Cape Sounion, and Athens

Start your day early with breakfast at the hotel and then pack up the car and drive to park near the Archeological Museum of Delphi . While it is walking distance from Delphi, you will be thankful to not have to walk extra once it gets warmer and it is on the way out of town anyways. Make sure you arrive early, I got the last parking spot around 8:15 AM.

You can purchase tickets at the Delphi Archeological Site which includes entry to the museum as well. If you would rather skip the ticket line, you can also purchase your Delphi tickets in advance . There is also a fountain to the right of the ticket booth where you can refill water bottles. The Delphi Archeological Site is all uphill and there is very little shade so make sure you are prepared for a couple of hours.

Delphi Archeological Site

At the Delphi Archeological Site , there are plenty of signs to help you understand what you are seeing and its historical significance. Delphi is the site where the oracle spoke to Apollo and was believed by ancient Greeks to be the centre of the world. It was an important religious site in the 6th century BCE.

Because of its religious significance, as you walk through Delphi you will walk through the ruins of many monuments that were donated by ancient Greek leaders to curry favour with the gods. Some of the most prominent features are the Temple of Apollo, the theatre, and the stadium.

Walking the Delphi Archeological Site felt as significant as the Acropolis in Athens and you can certainly see why ancient Greeks felt this site nestled in Mount Parnassus is so special. For me, Delphi was a highlight of my time in Greece and is definitely worth adding to your itinerary, even if you can only visit on a day trip from Athens .

Archeological Museum of Delphi

After exploring the ruins, make a stop at the Archeological Museum of Delphi . It’s not a very large museum so it doesn’t take very long but there are some very important and interesting artifacts here. Perhaps the most famous are the Sphinx of Naxos, and the twins Cleobis and Biton.

Temple of Athena

If you have time, walk or drive down to the Temple of Athena , which has beautiful ruins of the Tholos of Delphi. Start your drive towards Athens, first stopping in the nearby town of Arachova to get some lunch. Arachova is a beautiful town and there is also a great lookout spot worth stopping just as you are leaving town.

Cape Sounion and Temple of POseidon

From Arachova, it’s almost a three-hour drive to Cape Sounion so you will arrive in the late afternoon. The Temple of Poseidon at Cape Sounion is famous for the 5th-century white marble temple that looks out over the Aegean Sea. During the summer it costs 10 euros for entry which feels a bit expensive considering Delphi including the museum is only 12.

You don’t need very long to explore the site, perhaps an hour. You could try to time it out to be there for sunset if you are okay with arriving in Athens quite late. If you are traveling without a car, a sunset tour to Cape Sounion is an excellent option.

Check-in To Athens Hotel

After Sounion, drop your car off at the airport and head into Athens. I found the metro was very convenient, especially because the hotel I booked was very close to Syntagma metro station , which is right on the metro line that serves both the airport and ferry terminal. I highly recommend The Athenians Art Apartments . The location is perfect for exploring Athens as everything was easy walking distance on foot. The rooms were newly renovated and had tons of space, a kitchenette, and were very comfortable and quiet.

Day 3: Acropolis, Ancient Agora, and Food Tour Tour

Today starts with a visit to Athen’s most famous site, the Acropolis ! I recommend buying your ticket in advance to skip the ticket line. Unfortunately, you still have to wait in the entry line to go through security. A combo ticket for the Acropolis is worth it as it allows you entry to six other sites over five days.

If you can, try to be at the Acropolis at 8 AM, right when it opens. I went up the Acropolis from the side entrance on the south side ( on the map here ) so I could walk past other interesting sights before seeing the Acropolis and exiting from the main entrance. I left the Acropolis around 10:30 AM and by then there were massive line-ups both at the ticket booth and at entry. Honestly, even by mid-morning it was starting to look and feel like a conveyer belt of people going through the Acropolis so getting here early really is worth it.

The Acropolis is completely exposed to the sun so make sure to be prepared. If you visit during a heat wave, the Acropolis may be temporarily closed if it’s around 40°C. There is a water fountain near the bathrooms here, and it’s the only place I saw for drinks on the Acropolis. I recommend packing tissues as well as the bathrooms were not stocked with toilet paper when I visited.

At the Acropolis, you first will go by the Theatre of Dionysus before walking up the stairs surrounded by columns through the Propylaia (ceremonial gateway) and next to the Temple of Athena Nike . The entrance to the Acropolis felt grand and was a highlight for me. Even though the Acropolis is ancient, there has been a lot of restoration happening and the restoration of the Temple of Athena Nike was completed in 2010. The Parthenon is the main temple that the Acropolis is known for and unfortunately, you can only view it from the outside. The Parthenon was heavily damaged during the 1687 Siege of the Acropolis by the Venetians. Even though it was restored, many collonades were put together wrongly so since 1975 restoration has been conducted here to put everything back in its rightful place. Having been around since 495-429 BCE, the Parthenon has been through a lot.

After exploring all the sites on the Acropolis head down. You can go up Areopagus Hill next to the exit to get views of the Acropolis as well.

Ancient Agora

Head towards the Ancient Agora . If you bought a combo ticket then entry is included. I had a terrible time finding the entry for it as it looks like there is an entry close to the Acropolis but when I visited, it was closed off. Google Maps is not your friend here as it tries to take you on walking paths that are fenced off. Entry is off of Adrianoy Street and when choosing walking directions, avoid green walking paths that are in the fenced-in Ancient Agora site.

There is much to explore at the Ancient Agora including the Temple of Hephaestus and Stoa of Attalos . If you visited the Temple of Poseidon at Cape Sounion, you might note a similar style with the Temple of Hephaestus as both are thought to be designed by the same architect. The Stoa of Attalos contains a small museum containing Athenian artifacts as well. One of my favourite parts of the Stoa of Attalos was going to the top floor to get a view over the Agora.

You can easily spend an hour or two exploring the Ancient Agora as there are many ruins and monuments scattered around the site.

Athens Food Tour

After a busy morning exploring Athens, grab some lunch, Vegan Beat has yummy mushroom gyros, and relax at the hotel before joining a food tour .

I went on an Athens street food tour that left from nearby Syntagma Square. The tour was fantastic. There were vegetarian and meat options at every stop and it was a great way to learn about Athens while tasting some of the food Greece is known for like spanokopitas, Greek pizza, loukoumades (Greek donuts!), and of course, gyros. Every stop had great food and it was a great way to get to try a variety of foods, including things I’d never heard of before like mastica ice cream. It was honestly the highlight of Athens for me and I have a full guide to the Athens food tour here .

Day 4: Exploring Athens

On your second full day in Athens, it’s the perfect time to explore the city with no time pressures.

Athens Spice and Food Markets

I started the day by exploring the spice markets of Evripidou Street as well as the central market. It’s an interesting area to explore even if you aren’t buying anything. The spice markets truly sell everything you could think of and it had me wishing I had more luggage space. It’s a good spot to find mastic if you want to take pure mastic home. I was able to purchase cinnamon sticks and licorice root at the spice markets. There are also shops that sell every kind of cured meat and olives.

In the Central Market, you have to be prepared for the open butchering of meat. A walk-through here will have you witness to many men with giant cleavers prepping meat for sale.

I followed it up by getting different baklavas at Baklavas , which has excellent baklava and is very close to Syntagma Square.

National Gardens

After lunch, walk through the National Gardens next to Syntagma Square. The gardens have lots of nice features to explore including the Byzantine chapel. Zappeion Hall is at one end of the gardens and is right next to an alley of jacaranda trees that look beautiful during late spring when they are covered in purple flowers. There are also some parrot nests in the pine trees that house some very noisy parakeets.

Temple of Olympian Zeus and Panathenaic Stadium

Walk to the nearby Temple of Olympian Zeus , which is included with the Acropolis combo ticket . It’s a quick site to explore but has a historic temple and great views of the Acropolis. A 10-minute walk down the hill from the Temple of Olympian Zeus is Panathenaic Stadium . This is the site of the first modern Olympic Games. You can get a good view of the stadium from outside or pay the 10 euros entry to tour the stadium. I skipped entering the stadium because I wanted to get out of the sun but if you do visit, you will be in the only stadium in the world built entirely of marble.

Acropolis Museum and Plaka

After visiting the stadium, walk by Hadrian’s Arch towards the Acropolis Museum . I didn’t tour the museum as I was feeling a bit ancient-Greeced out but if you are a history buff then it’s a good time for a visit. Unfortunately, the museum isn’t included with any of the Acropolis ticket combos so you do have to pay extra.

Explore the Plaka neighbourhood and grab some dinner. The Plaka is the neighbourhood that is at the base of the Acropolis and it has very charming tiny streets to explore. Many streets are pedestrian-only and have lovely flowers and cute restaurants. It can get very crowded here, however. It’s a great place to shop for souvenirs, I especially loved the olive wood shop that sold everything from cutting boards to utensils and decorations.

Watch the Sunset with Views of the Acropolis

Just as the sun was starting to set I went up Philopappos Hill to get some views of the Acropolis at sunset. While there are amazing views, it’s unsafe to be there after dark and muggings have been reported. The path is also not lit up and quite uneven so it would be difficult to do in the dark. I recommend visiting it before dark though because the 360° views of Athens are stunning.

Areopagus Hill is the perfect place to get views of the Acropolis at sunset, although it is very popular and can be crowded. The sun doesn’t set behind the Acropolis but you will get nice views of the Acropolis lighting up at night.

Athens in Four Days Itinerary

I was very happy with spending four days in Athens. I had debated about leaving it out because of hearing so many bad things about Athens but I’m so happy I didn’t. Between the side trip to Delphi, Acropolis, and being a great city to wander around, Athens makes the perfect place to visit before or after a trip to the Greek Islands.

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Real Greek Experiences

Greek Culture, Travel Information, Itineraries, Life in Greece

2 Days In Athens: A Local’s Advice On What To See And Do

Hi! I’m an Athenian, and I’ve written this itinerary for 2 days in Athens which is perfect for first-time visitors. It includes which attractions to see in Athens, where to stay and eat, and what else there is to do while visiting our ancient yet modern city!

Athens Itinerary For 2 Days

Athens is an ancient city with an incredibly long and varied history. It’s world famous for being the birthplace of democracy, as well as for its archaeological sites and monuments. In addition, visitors rave about the food and the ambiance.

While two days in Athens is not enough to see everything, most of the attractions are in the city center. You will be able to see the Acropolis, the Ancient Agora, the National Gardens, the Acropolis Museum, and much more.

Unless you are planning to take an Ancient Greece guided tour , try to brush up on your Greek history before you visit. A quick history lesson will help you understand why Ancient Athens was so important.

It will probably leave you humbled by what humans were capable of creating during those ancient times!

Bring comfortable shoes, a hat, sunblock and some water. Greece’s climate isn’t always easy on visitors who aren’t used to it!

And now, let’s explore Athens together!

2 days in Athens itinerary – Day One

Day one in Athens includes a mix of ancient sites, museums, traditional architecture, great food and a few other attractions. Here’s our itinerary:

• The Acropolis
• Temple of Olympian Zeus
• Acropolis Museum

Lunch in Plaka

• Roman Agora
• Hadrian’s Library
• Areopagus Hill for sunset
• Dinner and drinks in Monastiraki

Let’s start our two days in Athens itinerary with Greece’s most famous archaeological site: the Acropolis.

The Acropolis of Athens

The ancient citadel of the Acropolis has been a Unesco World Heritage Site since 1987. It is up on a hill, which you can reach through several steps.

There are several noteworthy landmarks inside the complex. The most important sights are the Parthenon Temple, the Erectheion with the Caryatids, the Temple of Athena Nike and the Theatre of Dionysus.

The impressive Gate to the citadel is called Propylaia. Its construction was completed in 432 BC, a few years after the Parthenon.

The Acropolis opens at 8 am year round, and closing time varies by season. Get there early, to avoid not only the summer heat but also the groups of cruise ship passengers.

There are two entrances, and the main one is marked on Google Maps as “ Acropolis ticket office “. The other is close to the “Tourist information centre Athens”, a short walk from Acropolis metro station. I prefer to use this one, as it’s normally less crowded.

To avoid queuing, you should get your tickets in advance. There is a combo ticket option which will save you money if you are planning to visit three ancient sites or more.

You can buy your combo ticket here >> Athens combined ticket .

Allow at least an hour and a half to visit the Acropolis. This will give you time to admire the views from the top of the ancient hill, right under the giant Greek flag . 

From up there, you can spot the Temple of Olympian Zeus, the Acropolis museum, and several green spaces, like Filopappou and Lycabettus Hill . Far away in the background, you can see the sea!

Inside the Acropolis: The Parthenon

The Parthenon is one of the most breathtaking temples in the world. It was built between 448 – 438 BC in honour of the Goddess Athena, one of the twelve Olympian Gods .

Athena the Virgin was the patron goddess of Athens, and more temples in the ancient citadel were dedicated to her. Here’s a cool story about how Athens got its name !

Apart from the temple of Athena Nike and Erectheion, the remaining temples have not survived.

As Athens was occupied by several conquerors over the centuries, the Parthenon was reconstructed from time to time. Today, visitors can walk around, and observe the fascinating architectural details, representative of Ancient Greece.

Inside the Acropolis: Erechteion

Another iconic temple inside the Acropolis complex is Erectheion. This monument was dedicated to both Athena and Poseidon, the mighty god of the sea. It was constructed between 421 – 406 BC.

The statues that support the roof are replicas of the world-famous Caryatids. Five of the originals are in the nearby New Acropolis Museum. The sixth can be seen in the British Museum, in London.

Inside the Acropolis: Other important monuments

As you are walking on the hill, you will see many ancient ruins, including two majestic theatres.

The Theatre of Dionysus is a short walk from one of the entrances to the Acropolis. It was constructed to honour the God Dionysus and hosted performances by the most famous Ancient Greek tragedians, like Euripides and Sophocles.

The Odeon of Herodes Atticus was built several centuries later by a wealthy Roman philosopher, Herodes Atticus. You can see it from above when you are inside the Acropolis.

In summer, the Odeon of Herodes hosts theatrical performances and concerts under the starry sky. It is one of the most unforgettable experiences you can have in Greece, so look out for any events!

You can read more about Ancient Greek theatres in this article.

Next stop on our Athens Itinerary: Temple of Olympian Zeus

After leaving the Acropolis, you can visit the temple of Olympian Zeus, a short walk away. Entrance fee to this monument is included in the combo ticket.

The temple of Olympian Zeus was the biggest temple of the Greek ancient world, and was fit for the King of Gods. Its construction was completed during the reign of the Roman Emperor Hadrian, in 132 AD.

He admired the Greek civilization, and built several important monuments around the city, including Hadrian’s Library.

When it was completed, the temple consisted of 104 columns, out of which only 15 remain today. Their size is really mind-blowing! There are a few more ancient ruins all around the site, but all in all you probably need under an hour here.

On your way out, make a quick stop to check Hadrian’s Arch . This massive gate was built in honour of the Roman Emperor in 131 AD.

Explore the Acropolis Museum

After visiting the two ancient sites, you’ll probably be warm! It’s time to explore the fully air-conditioned New Acropolis Museum, which opened its doors in 2009.

It’s dedicated exclusively to ancient artefacts that were excavated around the Parthenon and the Acropolis.

You will see several statues, vases and everyday objects. The most impressive statues are the five original Caryatids, that were brought in from the Erectheion for protection.

Notice that they are not symmetrically placed, but there is space for a sixth statue. Greek archaeologists hope that, one day, it will return from the British Museum.

On the top floor, the surviving sculptures from the Parthenon’s frieze are exhibited. If you look closely, you will realize that many of them are replicas – the originals are in world class museums in several countries.

Apart from the exhibits themselves, take some time to admire the unique architecture. The large windows allow for plenty of sunlight, with a incredible view of the Parthenon.

In addition, the Acropolis cafe is a good place for a break. Few cafes in Athens can boast this view!

On your way out, don’t miss the newly opened area at the basement. Several houses of the ancient city have been excavated literally underneath the archaeological museum.

Stroll around Plaka

And now, time for lunch! Plaka is one of the oldest and possibly the most picturesque neighborhoods in Athens. While there is a touristy element, it’s nevertheless a charming, quaint little area.

The best way to explore Plaka is to walk around its cobblestone alleys. You will see traditional Greek architecture and colorful houses scattered around narrow streets, along with some interesting street art.

Along the little alleyways, you will find numerous souvenir shops, selling all sorts of stuff. This includes Greek sandals, leather goods, silver jewelry, carpets, fur coats and cheap souvenirs.

Here’s some more info on the best souvenirs you can get in Greece .

Plaka is home to a few small museums and galleries. People with only 2 days in Athens normally skip them, which is a shame as some of them are really cool. Here are all the museums in Plaka .

There are also plenty of cafes and restaurants, some of which have been around for many decades. Which brings us to the important question: Where to have lunch in Plaka?

It is clear by now that Plaka is a somewhat touristy area. However, this doesn’t mean that Greeks don’t hang out here! Here are a few places to eat in Plaka that I can recommend based on my experience.

Tavernas in Plaka

Evgenia at Voulis 44A – My favourite no-frills taverna in Plaka, serving hearty, traditional Greek dishes. They are very popular with locals and visitors, so the food is always fresh. I’m always happy with a Greek salad and the fish / seafood dish of the day!

Scholarchio at Tripodon 14 – An ouzeri established in the 1930s. They bring you a selection of Greek dishes in a tray, and you can choose the one you like the looks of 🙂 I’ve been coming here for almost 3 decades now! 

To Kafeneio at Epiharmou 1 – Right next door from Scholarchio, they serve tasty Greek food including some interesting salads.

Platanos at Diogenous 4 – An old-style taverna with decent food and a lovely shaded courtyard. You can go inside and check the dishes if you want. On your way out, you can pass by the fascinating Museum of Greek Folk Musical Instruments , my favourite museum in Plaka.

Before you go to any of these tavernas, check out my list of 50 popular Greek dishes , and see if you can identify any!

Coffee / snacks in Plaka

If you are not interested in a proper lunch, here are a few more suggestions:

O Glykys (the Sweet) at Geronta 2 – Small plates in a lovely semi-hidden courtyard. They have a good selection of dishes with meat and cheese, and a few Greek drinks like raki and ouzo .

Yiasemi at Mnisikleous 23 – Come here for a light lunch, quick snack, coffee , drink or their amazing desserts . In fact, you will be lucky if you can get a seat here, as it’s always popular. There’s a rooftop area as well.

Melina Cafe at Lissiou 22 – A cozy all-day cafe / bistro, dedicated to the memory of the unforgettable Melina Mercouri .

Climb up the quaint district of Anafiotika

Just above Plaka, there is a small, quaint area called Anafiotika. Here, you can see some of the oldest houses in Athens. They were built by workers who came to Athens from the Greek islands in the 1830s, after the Greek Independence War .

This is the most unexpected district right in the historic center. You will be totally blown away by the quaint architecture and also the cool street art. As you are walking around the picturesque streets, please respect the residents.

Here is some more information about Anafiotika .

Drop by the Roman Agora and Hadrian’s Library

After leaving Anafiotika, you can easily pop by the Roman Agora , located close to Monastiraki Square. This is a small archaeological site which is mostly famous for the Tower of the Winds, known as the world’s first meteorological station.

The Roman Agora was the main market area in Athens during the Roman Era. It gradually replaced the Ancient Agora, which had been the main market for several centuries.

The new market was lavish, which is apparent if we look at the impressive gate.

Hadrian’s Library , just next door, is one of the least visited sites in Athens. Unfortunately, there isn’t much left to see of the once majestic library, which measured about 120 x 80 metres.

It contained historic and literary books, and also the city’s archives and records.

Entrance to these sites is included in your combined ticket, and a half hour is probably enough to check them out.

Head up Areopagus Hill for the sunset

After all this walking, you might just want to put your feet up and relax! A short walk from Hadrian’s library is Areopagus Hill, a large rock with fantastic views of the capital.

Areopagus, known in Greek as Areios Pagos, was an important court in Ancient Athens. It’s also the place where Apostle Paul delivered his speech on Orthodoxy, in 51 AD.

The Rock is one of my favourite spots, and I would include it in any Athens itinerary. It’s a popular spot to see the sunset from, and you will get beautiful views of the Acropolis when the lights come on.

Here is some more information about Areopagus Hill in Athens Greece .

Dinner and drinks at Monastiraki Square

Your Athens itinerary wouldn’t be complete without a dinner, or some evening drinks! Two popular rooftop bars overlooking Monastiraki Square are A for Athens and 360.

These two bars have some of the best Acropolis views, and you will absolutely enjoy your night out in Athens!

2 days in Athens itinerary – Day Two

Our day two in Athens includes some more sightseeing. We will also explore a more authentic side of the city, including its vibrant markets. Here’s our Athens itinerary:

• Panathenaic Stadium
• National Gardens
• Syntagma Square
• Changing of the Guards
• Walking down Ermou street
• Athens food market

Lunch at Psiri

Monastiraki flea market.

• Ancient Agora
• Your choice!

Visit the Panathenaic Stadium

Start your day at the impressive Panathenaic Stadium. This amazing ancient site was built in around 330 BC, to host the Great Panathenaia. At the time, it was the most important athletic and cultural event in Athens.

Over the centuries, the stadium was gradually abandoned. In the late 19th century, certain people came up with the idea of reviving the Ancient Greek Olympics .

The Panathenaic Stadium was chosen to host the first modern Olympic Games. It was fully restored, and has been used ever since to host numerous events.

While you can have a glimpse of the stadium from the outside, I absolutely suggest you go in. You can’t appreciate its size unless you walk up the stairs! There’s also a small but interesting museum with the history of the Olympic Games.

Here is some more info about the Panathenaic Stadium .

National Garden in Athens

Our Athens itinerary continues through the National Gardens. This is a beautiful park, which was designed by Queen Amalia. She was the wife of King Otto, the first king of Greece after the Independence War.

The gardens are a popular retreat from the hustle and bustle of the city center. You will see hundreds of different types of trees, bushes and flowers.

There are also a couple of ponds, and if you look carefully you will spot a few ancient ruins and an impressive mosaic.

Here is my article on the National Garden .

Check out Syntagma Square

After strolling through the Gardens, you will arrive at Syntagma Square, the most central point in Athens. The first thing you will see is the impressive Greek Parliament building.

This neo classical building was once the Palace of King Otto and Amalia. Since 1935, it has been hosting the Greek Parliament. It is possible to pay a visit, but you need to pre-book it well in advance .

All around Syntagma Square, you will see more interesting buildings, like the Grande Bretagne Hotel.

Here’s some more information on Syntagma Square , and why it’s so important for Athenians.

Watch the Changing of the Guards

No Athens itinerary is complete without watching the Changing of the Guards! This famous ceremonial walk happens every hour on the hour and is a great photo opportunity.

The Changing of the Guard takes place by the Tomb of the Unknown Soldier, right in front of the Greek Parliament. This solemn monument is dedicated to every unknown soldier who died during Greece’s numerous wars.

The Guards, or Evzones in Greek, are specially selected soldiers serving in the Greek Army. Their walk has numerous symbolisms, which is why the ceremony is an almost sacred event.

You can read more about the Changing of the Guards here.

Head down Ermou Street

Cross the street from the Greek Parliament building, and you will be right on the main shopping street in Athens, Ermou street.

This is a pedestrianized street with shops on either side. It’s perfect for shopping, window-shopping or just people watching. You will see international and local stores with shoes, clothes, jewelry and homeware. 

The sidestreets are also great if you are looking for items like beads, fabrics, and art / craft materials.

As you are walking down Ermou, you will see a Byzantine church named Kapnikarea. It was built in the 11th century, and contains some impressive frescoes designed by Fotis Kontoglou, a famous Greek artist.

All around Ermou, there are dozens of cafes, bakeries, and places to grab a quick snack.

Check out this guide on where to go shopping in Athens for more information!

Athens Food Market

And now one of my favourite places in Athens: the Varvakios food market! This is a large food market close to Monastiraki Square, spread across Athinas street and the side streets.

The market has several different sections, some of which are covered. You can find many Greek products, like cheese, cured meats, olives, yoghurt, nuts and bakery snacks. Most visitors are really impressed with the meat and fish section.

I come here a few times a month to do some food shopping. Despite the fact that it’s becoming a popular Athens attraction, I am glad that the market still remains authentic.

Many of the market stalls start closing at around 15.00, and the market is closed on Sundays. Here’s some more information on the  Varvakios central food market .

Tip: If you take an Athens food tour , it will likely include the food market.

Right next door from Varvakios market, you will find the quirky Psiri area. It’s a tiny neighbourhood full of all-day cafe – bars, dozens of places to get a snack or dessert. The iconic Little Kook cafe is right here.

Psiri is also one of the best areas in Athens to explore if you are into street art.

You don’t need too long to stroll around the small area – after all, it’s time for lunch! You can read more about Psiri in Athens here.

Psiri is one of my favourite districts in central Athens for food. While it’s more popular with tourists than it was 10 years ago, it offers a great choice for authentic tavernas with delicious food. Here are some suggestions:

Mavros Gatos at Navarchou Apostoli 5 – My favourite restaurant in the city center. They normally open at lunchtime around 13.00ish, and serve a fantastic selection of small Greek dishes and drinks! I love everything, especially the chicken with peppers and the strapatsada omelette. At the end, you get a treat 🙂

Atlantikos at Avliton 7 – A somewhat hidden spot for fish and seafood. Anything I’ve tried here is great, as long as you like fish! If you are not sure what to get, go for the platter, along with some raki .

Pame Naxo at Navarchou Apostoli 5 – If you can’t get a seat at Mavros Gatos, Pame Naxo is a pretty good option. Naxos is famous for its cheeses and meats, so it’s a good place to taste some.

Minibar at Navarchou Apostoli 16 – Yet another tiny restaurant. They serve small dishes based on traditional recipes with a twist. Check out the specials of the day.

After lunch, it’s time to explore Monastiraki Flea Market. This spreads around Monastiraki Square, and you will find several stores on Ifestou street and the side streets.

You can find clothes, shoes, beads, souvenirs, jewelry, and leather goods. This is also the place to head to for antiques, used books, vinyl records, camping gear, and many other products.

Serious shoppers should consider visiting Athens on a Sunday , when the flea market expands and more antiques stalls appear.

Explore the Ancient Agora of Athens

A few steps from Monastiraki flea market, you will find one of my favourite ancient sites in Athens, the Ancient Agora.

In antiquity, this was one of the most important spots of Athenian life. Since the 6th century BC, it was the place where everything happened – shopping, meeting friends, hanging out.

Famous Greek philosophers like Socrates and Plato walked around the Ancient Agora thousands of years ago.

Among the various ruins, you will see the impressive Temple of Hephaestus. It was completed in 415 BC, and is one of the best preserved ancient temples in Greece.

You will also come across the Byzantine church of Agioi Apostoloi, built in the late 10th century AD.

The Ancient Agora was gradually replaced by the much newer Roman Agora. By the Middle Ages, the site had partly been buried under debris. Over the centuries, several houses were built on top of the ancient ruins.

During the first excavations, in the early 20th century, over 400 buildings were demolished to reveal the magnificent ancient site.

Entry to the Ancient Agora is included with your combined ticket. It’s a large area, so it may take you a good couple of hours to explore it properly.

Allow enough time for the small Museum of Ancient Agora, which gives a fantastic overview of life in Ancient Athens.

Tip: In modern Greek, the word “Agora” literally means a marketplace. In ancient Greek, it also indicates a gathering, a speech, and a place to gather and discuss!

Here is some more information about the Ancient Agora in Athens .

Free time – Your choice!

Your 2 days in Athens isn’t over yet! There is still enough time for at least one more attraction. Exactly what you want to see is up to you! Here are a few more ideas:

Kerameikos Ancient Cemetery – A stone’s throw from the Ancient Agora, Kerameikos is often overlooked by visitors. Yet, its significance during ancient times was huge. Entrance is included with the combined ticket.

The National Archaeological Museum – The largest archaeological museum in Greece hosts an outstanding collection presenting the Ancient world. In my opinion, history buffs should prioritize this over the Acropolis Museum. Only drawback – it’s huge, so you’d need about 4 hours to see it properly! Closest metro station: Victoria

Benaki Museum – The main Benaki Museum in Kolonaki area presents all of Greece’s long history in just one building. It’s perfect if you want a quick introduction to Classical, Roman, Byzantine and modern Athens and Greece. Closest metro station: Evangelismos

Lycabettus Hill – A lovely viewing spot, particularly popular for sunset. You can either walk up, or take the funicular car / a taxi. It’s walking distance from the Benaki Museum.

Art Galleries in Athens – Visitors don’t always connect Athens with modern and contemporary art. The truth is, we have many major art museums and galleries, and it would take well over 2 days in Athens to see them all! I would strongly suggest the newly opened National Gallery , or the Benaki Museum,  Pireos 138  branch.

Temple of Poseidon at Sounion – If you have an afternoon and evening free, I highly recommend taking a sunset tour to the Temple of Poseidon at Sounion .

FAQs about Athens and Greece

And now that we’ve seen what to do in 2 days in Athens, here are some answers to FAQs:

What is the best time to visit Athens?

I would recommend visiting Athens during the shoulder season. Summer can be too hot and crowded! Late spring is my favourite time in Athens, as all the flowers up on the hills are blooming.

Here is some more info on the best time to visit Greece .

How can I get to the city centre from the Athens international airport?

I always use public transport from the Athens airport. There are three choices: the airport metro, the suburban railway and the airport bus.

The metro and suburban railway cost 9 euro. The airport metro system is very easy to navigate, and you can get the blue line directly to the centre. All in all, it’s the easiest option. Do watch out for pickpockets, as I’ve heard of some incidents.

The Athens airport bus is the best budget option, as it only costs 5.5 euro per person. X95 bus terminates at Syntagma Square. If you are staying in Plaka or Koukaki you will have to walk or take a short taxi / metro ride.

A taxi normally costs between 35 – 40 euro, and is more expensive from midnight to 5 am.

If you are staying close to the Acropolis, here are all the ways to get to your hotel from the airport . 

What’s the best way to get around the city centre?

People who like walking could do most of the above Athens itinerary on foot. To reach the National Archaeological Museum or the Benaki Museum, you could consider using the Athens metro system , or a taxi.

Here are all the ways to get around Athens.

What’s the best area to stay in Athens?

Since you only have 2 days in Athens, I would suggest that you stay in either Plaka or Koukaki. Other areas I like include Thissio, Monastiraki and Psiri.

Do I need travel insurance to visit Greece?

Taking travel insurance is never a bad idea, especially if you are coming from outside the European Union. EU residents could use the European Health Insurance Card (EHIC) for emergencies. You will need to issue this in your home country.

What’s the best way to get from Athens to the Greek islands?

You can get to some Greek islands, like Mykonos , Santorini or Milos , on a short flight. It’s best to book those as early as possible, as last-minute prices tend to be high.

My preferred way to travel to the islands is by ferry. I use a search engine called Ferryscanner to check all itineraries and book my ferry tickets. If you use the link above to book yours, I will get a small commission which helps me run this website, at no extra cost to you!

Here’s an introduction to the several Greek island groups , and a list of islands close to Athens .

Is Athens walkable?

I have walked thousands of kilometres in Athens, and it’s definitely walkable. There are many pedestrianized areas, like Ermou and Areopagitou streets that are great to walk. On the other hand, be prepared for some hills, many stairs, and many drivers that don’t respect zebra crossings, traffic lights and pavements.

Is Athens safe?

I think that Athens is an overall safe city. However, pickpockets may operate at crowded areas and inside the Athens metro. Make sure you have your valuables in a safe place, like a money belt or hidden pocket. Also, don’t leave your mobile phone on the table, as it’s an easy target.

How much money should I take to Athens?

This depends on your preferences and how long you are staying for. As a rule of thumb, you should budget at least 40 euro for accommodation for two people per night, and 30-40 euro for a seated meal. Most businesses take cards, but it doesn’t hurt to have some cash with you.

How far is Athens from the beach?

Athens is in the centre of the Attica peninsula, which is surrounded by the coast. You can take the tram from central Athens and be on the coast in about 30 minutes. You can go further out, to the areas called Glyfada, Vouliagmeni or Voula.

Are 2 days in Athens enough?

As I am an Athenian, my answer is no! I would suggest spending at least a few days here. There are so many museums to see, and so many areas to explore. Still, 2 days in Athens are ok to get an idea of the city center and the main tourist attractions.

The perfect Athens itinerary for 2 days

I hope this Athens itinerary has helped you plan your trip in the Greek capital. If you have any questions, feel free to ask in the comments below!

Also, check out these other articles:

• My list of 30 best things to do in Athens
• The 20 best museums in Athens
• The best day trips from Athens
• Greek celebrations

And, before you go, have a look at this guide with useful words and phrases in Greece . Although you will find that most people speak English, it’s always a good idea to try and learn a few words!

Hi! I am Vanessa, and I am an Athenian. While Athens is far from a perfect city, I love its many different faces. My 2 days in Athens itinerary should help you figure out the main tourist attractions, especially if it’s your first time here. If you try any of the restaurants, I’d love to know what you thought, so please leave a comment below!

6 thoughts on “2 Days In Athens: A Local’s Advice On What To See And Do”

Hi Vanessa, just wanted to send a big thank you. Your page is amazing!!! Is very organized and detailed and has helped me a lot. All the best to you!

Thanks for your message! So glad to hear this!!! If you have any questions, feel free to get in touch 🙂

Hello – what are the best hotels to stay near Acropolis

Hi Mike! I’ve answered you in private, thanks!

My husband and I are planning a Greece trip in 2024 and still deciding what month, but looking into late May or early November, avoiding the peak tourist season. I appreciate your great recommendations and all your fyi facts, it helps tremendously with the trip planning process. Is Santorini and Crete a doable trip for 5 days? We are history buffs and also prefers what & where locals eats not the pricey tourist traps restaurants. Appreciate your recommendations. Dolor Gaydos

Hi! I’ve sent you an email with some ideas!

Leave a Comment Cancel reply

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How Many Days in Athens Are Ideal for Your First Visit?

Last Modified: November 10, 2023 //  by  Anda //   Leave a Comment

If you are a first time visitor to Athens you probably wonder how many days to spend in the city, or if it’s even worth visiting. Most people land in Athens on their way to other destinations in Greece, so they don’t plan to spend more than a day or two here, at the most. Would that be enough for visiting this historic city?

Before we get into more details about how many days you’ll need in Athens, let’s first discuss what to expect when visiting the Greek capital.

Table of Contents

The Food Scene

Are 2 days in athens enough, how about 3 days in athens, are 4 days in athens too long, public transportation, the hop-on hop-off bus, renting a car in athens, where to stay in athens, how to save time & money in 3 days in athens, 1. the acropolis, 2. acropolis museum, 3. ancient agora & temple of hephaestus, 4. roman agora, 5. hadrian’s library, 6. temple of olympian zeus, 7. hadrian’s arch, 8. athens national archeological museum, 9. karameikos cemetery, 10. lycabettus hill, 11. panathenaic stadium, 12. plaka & anafiotika neighborhoods, 13. monastiráki square, 14. church of panagia kapnikarea, more than 3 days in athens, is athens worth visiting.

For those who love history Athens doesn’t need much introduction. The city is not only Europe’s oldest capital, but also one of the oldest continuously inhabited cities on earth. It’s the cradle of western civilization and the place where democracy and philosophy were born. It’s also the birthplace of the Greek drama.

As you may expect, with over 3000 years of history Athens is a city imbued with culture and loaded with ancient ruins and fascinating museums. So if that’s what you are after, you won’t be disappointed.

Modern Athens, on the other hand, is a mixed bag. A city of extraordinary contrasts. On one side you have the towering, magnificent Parthenon and the Acropolis, while on the other you see a sprawl of ugly concrete apartment blocks.

Except for a few nice neighborhoods like Plaka, Monastiraki, or Syntagma Square, Athens looks more like a battleground of old versus new . It has neither the classical elegance or grandeur of an ancient city, nor the splendor of other European capitals , like Rome or Paris . Almost everywhere you turn you’ll see ugly, nondescript buildings standing next to run-down neoclassical ones, construction sites and wire fencing.

Why does Athens looks so weird? The answer is not simple as there are many factors that contributed to this aspect. After gaining its independence, Greece went through very hard times. People rushed to the big cities to make more money, so urbanization happened very fast.

This caused anarchy in the construction industry. Houses started popping up with no urban planning whatsoever. The result is the sprawl of ugly structures that you see today. And not only in Athens, but in most big cities in Greece as well.

In contrast with other European capitals where international cuisine is pretty much the norm , the food scene in Athens has very little diversity. Greeks seem to be very content with their own food and are not interested in trying other cuisines.

As far as I am concerned, I LOVE Greek food and couldn’t get enough of it! But if you want more variety or you are looking for some specific cuisine, you won’t find it in Athens.

What makes Athens a magic place to visit are not the sites, the architecture, or the restaurants, but the people. Their joy of life, kindness and spontaneity takes over the chaotic vibes of the city. Greek hospitality is warm and genuine, with no hidden motive to gain anything other than perhaps some conversation.

How Many Days to Spend in Athens

Planning how long to stay in Athens depends on what your interests are, and whether you want to use the city as a home base for exploring the area around. The general rule is that larger European cities require 2-4 full days, while smaller cities only require 1-2 full days.

Athens demands a minimum of 2 days. If you walk fast enough and don’t plan to spend too much time at each attraction you may be able to visit the city’s most important sites in just two days. However, that won’t give you enough time for the museums, which is a pity since Athens has quite a few amazing ones!

I think 3 days would be just the right amount of time to visit Athens without rushing. Although most points of interest are located in the historic district and thus easy to reach, there is some walking and step climbing involved.

We basically needed only 3 days for visiting the archeological sites, the main museums, and get a glimpse of the city’s most popular neighborhoods. We spent a total of 4 days in Athens, but that included a day trip to Delphi.

Obviously, the more time you have the more you’ll be able to immerse yourself in the local culture and explore some of the attractions that are outside the historic center. With 4 days you’ll be able to take a day trip from Athens , if you choose to. There are many options around, like Delphi archeological site , Corinth, or Cape Sounion.

How to Get Around in Athens

If you plan to spend 2-3 days in Athens, the best way to get around is on foot, as most of the city’s attractions are located in the historic center. We visited Athens independently, but you can also book a tour for one or more of the attractions.

Athen’s metro is clean, efficient and inexpensive. However, I would only recommend using if you need to go to places that are outside of the historic center, like Lycabettus Hill or the port of Piraeus. And if you do, you’ll have to watch your pockets like nowhere else in Europe since petty crime in very high in Athens. Sadly, I’m talking from experience!

We also found Taxis to be a good way to get around the Greek capital, as they are plenty and relatively inexpensive. During our 3 days in Athens we used taxis on several occasions and found them to be very convenient and reliable. The average taxi ride costs around $7.00, with the minimum fare starting at $1.50 plus $0.80/km in the city center and $1.40/km in the surroundings.

The Hop-on-Hop-off Bus is a good alternative to walking between the attractions. There are different routes in Athens and different time durations (from 1 to 3 days) to choose from.

The open-top, double-decker bus takes you to the many important sights and attractions of the city and you have the option to get off the bus (and back on) wherever you choose to. Take the option to visit Piraeus too, as the port is farther away from the center.

Bus Tours We Recommend

We rented a car at Athens Airport because our Greece itinerary also included a road trip in the Peloponnese . However, I don’t recommend driving in Athens as traffic is heavy and parking is expensive and hard to find. We had the car parked for 3 days while we visited Athens and paid almost $100 in parking fees!

Whether you spend 1, 2 or 3 days in Athens, make sure to stay in one of the central areas such as Syntagma, Plaka, Monastiraki, or Thissio. All these neighborhoods are close to the places of interest in Athens and have good public transportation connections.

A good location in Athens makes a big difference not only on convenience but also on how much you’ll be able to see.

The best place to stay in Athens in our opinion is near the Acropolis. This includes the neighborhoods of Plaka, Syntagma Square, and Monastiraki. These areas are nicer that other parts of Athens, but most importantly, if you stay here you’ll be within walking distance of the Acropolis, Roman Agora, Library of Hadrian, and other places of interest in Athens. 

Archeological sites are relatively expensive in Athens, so if you are planning to visit them (and you should!), the best option to save is the Athens Combo Ticket . This ticket gives you access to 7 archeological sites: Acropolis, Ancient Agora, Roman Agora, Theatre of Dionysus, Kerameikos Cemetery, Temple of Olympian Zeus, and Hadrian’s Library.

The combo ticket gives you one-time admission to each site and 4 self-guided audio tours in English (if you select the option). The cost is €30 for adults and €15 for students. Pre-booking a combo ticket will save you not only money, but also time as you’ll be skipping the long lines at Athens’ top sites.

READ NEXT : Greece in October – Best Beach Destinations to Visit in Fall

What to Visit in Athens – a 3-Day Itinerary

Here are our recommendations for the best places to visit in Athens in 3 days.

High above the city, on a rocky outcrop, lies Athen’s most famous landmark – the Acropolis – a UNESCO world heritage site. In Ancient Greece the Acropolis of Athens was known as  Cecropia , after the legendary serpent-man,  Cecrops , the founder and first king of Athens.

This citadel contains the remains of several ancient buildings of great architectural and historical importance.

The Parthenon

The most recognizable building on the Acropolis is the Parthenon, which was built on top of a former temple destroyed by the Persians during the Greco-Persian Wars . The construction of the marble temple that you see today began in 447 B.C. The temple was dedicated to the goddess Athena.

Erechtheion

On the north side of the Acropolis you’ll see the building of the Erechtheion, which was primarily dedicated to the goddess Athena. While the Parthenon is the most impressive temple on the Acropolis, the Erechteion was actually the building that housed the statue of Athena.

The temple has two porches: one at the northwest corner, which is supported by tall Ionic columns, and another at the south-west corner, supported by six massive female statues. These are the famous Caryatids which seem to carry the weight of the roof on their heads. 

Propylaea (or Propylaia) is the classical Greek Doric building complex that you’ll come across after climbing the steps up the Acropolis. This structure functioned as the ceremonial gateway to the Acropolis of Athens, so no wonder it’s so monumental!

Temple of Athena Nike

To the right of the Propylaea, as you come up the stairs, you’ll see the small Temple of Athena Nike, which was completed around 420 BC. This is the smallest temple at the Acropolis.

There is some archaeological evidence indicating that the temple was used for religious rituals since the Mycenaean period.

Just beneath the slopes of the Acropolis sits the Odeon of Herodes Atticus, also known as Herodeon , or Herodium . This beautiful open-air theater was built between 160AD – 174AD by a wealthy benefactor of Athens –Herodes Atticus– as homage to his late wife Rigilla.

Today this ancient theater houses the  Athens Festival , musical concerts and classical tragedies.

Practical Information for visiting the Acropolis

The Acropolis of Athens is open daily from 8 am to 8 pm in summer (April to October) and from 8 am to 5 pm in winter (November to March).

Admission is €24 for adults and €18 for children 17 and under. Admission is free for the European Union children age 18 and under. The site is included in the Athens Combo Ticket.

Tours We Recommend

Just a few hundred meters below the Acropolis hill you’ll find the Acropolis Museum. The museum houses every artifact found on the Acropolis hill and the surrounding slopes. There are over 4000 exhibits and a lot to admire inside the museum. The highlights include the “Slope of the Acropolis” ramp and the statues on the first floor.

The building itself is fabulous, with its glass top and fabulous views of the Parthenon from its second and third floors!  The best time to visit the museum is after touring the Acropolis of Athens.

Practical Information

Opening hours are as follows: Monday to Thursday: 9 am to 5 pm Friday: 9 am to 10 pm Saturday & Sunday: 9 am to 8 pm

Admission prices vary by season. November to March: €10 for adults and €5 for students April to October: €15 for adults and €10 for students

The Museum’s ticket is independent from the ticket to the Acropolis and other associated archaeological sites, therefore it’s NOT included in the Athens Combo Ticket. You can skip the line by buying the ticket in advance.

The Ancient Agora was mostly a place of political and social gatherings. Not to be confused with the much smaller Roman Agora, which is just a few minutes walk away. The Ancient Agora was where the Athenians would meet to discuss politics and their quotidian lives. 

Excavations of the Agora took place relatively recently, between 1859 and 1912. But to everybody’s surprise, a great deal more was discovered during the following years, when they began installing the railway tracks.

Temple of Hephaestus

One of the best preserved ruins in the Ancient Agora is the Temple of Hephaestus. In fact, this structure is famous for being the world’s best-preserved ancient Greek temple.

Ancient Agora is open every day between 8 am and 8 pm.

The site is included with the Athens Combo Ticket. Otherwise, admission costs €10 for adults and €5 for students.

The Roman Agora, which is located on the northern side of the Acropolis, is a relatively small site built by the first Roman Emperor Augustus.

During ancient times the Agora was home to the central market, which had been moved from the next-door Ancient Agora. The market was surrounded by marble colonnades, while the patio was completely covered in marble.

Today only a small portion of the columns are still standing and the remains of a public latrine. The only structure left intact is “Tower of the Winds” which was initially a sundial. During the 6th century the tower was transformed into a chapel, which explains its good preservation.

Opening hours are 8 am to 5 pm daily.

Admission prices are €10 for adults and €5 for students, but with the Athens Combo Ticket , admission is included.

Commissioned by Emperor Hadrian in 132 AD, Hadrian’s Library was once an imposing building that had several reading rooms, a conference hall and an inner courtyard. The library was surrounded by a gallery decorated with one hundred columns.

Although it’s not in a very good shape, you can still get an idea of how grandiose the building must have been in its days of glory.

The entrance is next to Monastiraki Square. The library is open every day from 8 am to 8 pm.

Admission fee is €6 for adults and €3 for children. However, the site is free with the Athens Combo Ticket .

The Temple of Olympian Zeus was once an impressive structure made entirely of white marble. The temple took almost 700 years to built. The construction ended in 132 AC, under the Roman Emperor Hadrian. At the completion of the impressive temple the Emperor commissioned two statues for it: one of Zeus, made of gold, and one of himself, made of marble.

In the Middle Ages an earthquake destroyed most of the temple, so very little of it remains today.

The Temple is open daily from 8 am until 3 pm. 

The Temple of Olympian Zeus is one of the sites included in the Athens Combo Ticket . Without the combo ticket, admission costs €12 for adults and €6 for children.

On the northeast corner of the Temple of Olympian Zeus is Hadrian’s Arch. This monumental gateway was built in honor of the Roman emperor Hadrian. And since Hadrian had become an Athenian citizen nearly two decades before the monument was built, the inscriptions on the arch honor him as an Athenian rather than as the Roman emperor.

Hadrian’s Arch stands at the edge of a wide, busy road in Plaka and is one of the few ruins in Athens that doesn’t charge admission to visit.

The National Archaeological Museum in Athens is the largest and most important museum in Greece. The museum houses artifacts from many archaeological sites around the country. There are collections from Ancient Greece as well as exhibits from other periods in history including the Egyptians, Romans and a collection of Cypriot antiquities. 

The museum is truly worth visiting and extremely vast, but if you have less than 3 days in Athens you might not have time for it, which would be a shame!

The Museum is open Wednesday till Monday between 8:30 am and 3:30 pm and on Tuesday from 1 pm to 8 pm.

Admission prices are €12 for adults and €6 for students.

Karameikos is one of the least visited sites in Athens, despite being an important archeological site. In antiquity, this was one of the largest and most important cemeteries in Greece. The cemetery holds a vast collection of tombstones and funerary sculptures.

It is located northwest at the end of Ermou Street, just a short walk from Monastiraki Square and the Ancient Agora. As you walk down the ancient path lined with tombs you can learn the stories of its inhabitants and see many impressive tombstones.

There are many beautiful sculptures the cemetery as well, like the one of the two sisters Pamphili and Demetria, or the the imposing marble bull that crowns the tomb of a prominent Athenian citizen.

On your way out, you can also visit the small museum which has an interesting exhibition of sculptures and pottery. 

Karameikos cemetery is open Monday – Sunday, from 8 am to 8 pm. Admission is €8 for adults and €4 for students. Admission is free with the Athens Combo Ticket .

If you want to see the best views in Athens you should walk or take the funicular tramway to the top of Lycabettus Hill. On a clear day you can see the Saronic Gulf and the surrounding mountains from up here. 

We visited the hill near dusk, on a clear day, when the views were absolutely breathtaking! Unfortunately, when the weather is nice there are also many people around.

At the top of Lycabettus Hill you can see the Chapel of St. George –a small whitewashed Orthodox church built in the 19th century– and a monument dedicated to the heroes of the Greek War of Independence (1821-1832). There are also a couple of very nice restaurants worth checking out if you want to enjoy lunch or dinner with a view.

The funicular to Lycabettus Hill runs every day from 9 am to 1:30 am, departing every 30 minutes. Admission prices are: €7 for adults and €3.50 for children.

The Panathenaic Stadium is a very impressive place to visit, considering that it was the site of the first modern Olympic Games in 1896. This is also where the annual Athens Marathon ends.

The Stadium which dates back to the 4th century B.C. is made entirely of white marble. Hence its nickname, Kallimarmaro , which in means “beautiful marble”.

The admission fee is a bit steep (€10/person), but if you have the time and the money it’s worth going in. There are a couple of hours in the morning designated for morning jogs. So of you feel like running in the footsteps of former Olympians, here is your chance!

If you are looking for a romantic place to stroll in Athens, head over to the Mnisikleous Street in Plaka. The street is a long set of stairs lined with rustic restaurants and plenty of vegetation. Although the restaurants vary in quality, the atmosphere here is hard to beat.

Plaka draws big crowds, especially in the evenings, but it’s a nice neighborhood to stroll just the same. It’s also a good place to see street art in Athens.

Anafiotika is basically a small part of Plaka district, located at the base of the Acropolis. You may easily walk in Anafiotika without even realizing it’s a different neighborhood from Plaka. The area is very small and includes only of a handful of narrow alleys with white concrete huts and picturesque taverns.

Anafiotika was built in the 1800s by islanders who came to Athens to assist in building the city. Walking the peaceful and quiet alleys makes you feel like you are on the Cyclades, rather than in Athens.

Named after the tiny monastery church at its center, Monastiraki Square is a lively spot that you’ll be passed through quite a few times during your 3 days in Athens. This is one of Athens’ liveliest neighborhoods – a mix of history, where on one hand you have Greek and Roman ruins, an Ottoman Mosque and an Orthodox monastery, and on the other hand bars, restaurants, and souvenir shops.

The area is a network of pedestrian streets full of souvenir shops that surround the remains of both the Greek and Roman agoras. Given its proximity to the two agoras, Monastiraki has probably always been a shopping hub and it’s no different today.

Next to the metro station you’ll find the official Flea Market, while the streets around the market are full of souvenir shops.

Panagia Kapnikarea is one of the oldest churches in Athens. The church is located in the outskirts of the Plaka neighborhood, in the center of a busy shopping area. Thousands of people walk by it each day without paying too much attention to this jewel.

According to the records, Panagia Kapnikarea was built in the early 11th century (around 1050) on the site of an ancient temple that was dedicated either to goddess Athena. But what makes it special is the architectural design, which is very special.

The church has three parts: the main church, a chapel and an exo-narthex . It also has many beautiful Byzantine icons and mosaics.

The church of Panagia Kapnikarea has an interesting story. In the 19th century, during the reign of King Otto, the authorities decided to demolish it, as the King’s architect failed to include it in his urban designs. In the end, it was the intervention of King Ludwig of Bavaria that saved the church. Admission to the church is free.

READ NEXT : The 5 Most Important Sites to Visit in Nafplio, Greece

If you have more time in Athens, I suggest visiting some of the museums which we haven’t covered in this 3 day itinerary. One of the museums we would have like to visit is the Byzantine and Christian Museum which houses rare collections scriptures, frescoes, pottery, fabrics and manuscripts.

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Anda is an award winning travel writer, avid globetrotter and passionate photographer. She is the voice behind "Travel Notes & Beyond," a collection of stories and travel impressions from her wanderings around the world. When she is not busy writing, traveling, or editing photographs, you can find her hiking in the foothills behind her house together with her husband and their dog.

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Athens 3 Day Itinerary – What to do in Athens in 3 days

Staying for 3 days in Athens, Greece gives you plenty of time to see the main attractions like the Acropolis, Plaka, and Temple of Olympian Zeus. You'll also be able to squeeze in a side-trip or two to attractions outside the city.

My Athens 3 day itinerary is a comprehensive guide to the most historic city in Europe. See all the main highlights and explore ancient and contemporary Athens in 3 days the easy way!

Is 3 days in Athens too much?

How long do you need to ‘see' a city? It's impossible to answer. Especially when Athens, the city in question, has a history going back thousands of years!

In the end, most people are limited by the time they have available. If you are flexible with your time though. why not take a look at my dedicated guide to how long to spend in Athens before deciding?

Overall, I feel that 3 days in Athens is a great amount of time to visit the ancient ruins, and get to know the city better. You also have the opportunity to take a side trip to Delphi if you want.

Planning 3 days in Athens

So, I've designed this Athens 3 day itinerary in a way that helps you see the most of the city.

You'll get to see all the main highlights as well as a few contemporary treasures to give you a taste of both ancient and modern Athens.

If you’re thinking to include a visit to Athens as part of a bigger vacation in Greece that involves island hopping, my suggestion is to leave Athens until the end of the trip. The reason for this, is if there are any ferry delays or cancellations you won’t miss your flight home!

An alternative, is to split your 3 days in Athens into two sections, a little at the beginning, and a little at the end.

How this three day Athens itinerary works

I've been living in Greece for over eight years now, writing about numerous places to see and things to do in Athens. After showing friends and family around the city, I developed several Athens sightseeing itineraries.

These Athens itineraries are realistic, practical, and combine my local knowledge with what I know visitors will want to see.

Each of the three days in Athens starts off with a section called ‘what to expect'. This gives you a brief summary of the day's events.

After this, there's also a short section called ‘itinerary notes'. In this paragraph there are notes concerning how you might choose to adapt the Athens itinerary depending on time of year or personal interests.

Finally, there's a suggested order for the day's events with more extensive notes. Each day in Athens uses the suggested summer season order for sightseeing.

This is quite a long post, so you may find the table of contents listed underneath useful to jump directly to sections that appeal to you the most.

Athens 3 Day Itinerary

This Athens travel guide features a full 3 day itinerary. The Athens must do list includes:

DAY 1 IN ATHENS OVERVIEW AND ITINERARY NOTES

Suggested order for winter Day 1 Athens

Suggested order for summer day 1 athens.

• Hadrian’s Gate
• Temple Of Olympian Zeus
• Areopagitou Street
• Filopappou Hill
• Areopagus Hill
• Ancient Agora
• Lunch in Monastiraki
• The Acropolis Museum
• Visit The Acropolis And The Parthenon

Visiting the Acropolis in summer

Visiting the acropolis in winter.

• Plaka And Dinner in Athens

DAY 2 IN ATHENS – OVERVIEW AND ITINERARY

Suggested order for Day 2 in Athens

Syntagma square and the parliament, the national gardens, panathenaic stadium, lunch in kolonaki area.

• Museums in Athens – Your Choice

Cable Car to Lycabettus Hill

Panepistimiou trilogy, ermou street, dinner in athens.

DAY 3 IN ATHENS – OVERVIEW AND ITINERARY

Suggested order for Day 3 in Athens

Central food market athens, psirri area and street art, monastiraki market, kerameikos cemetery and museum, lunch in gazi area, national archaeological museum of greece, exarchia area.

• Day Trips from Athens

Day 1 in Athens – Overview And Itinerary

What to expect : On your first day in Athens, familiarize yourself with the centre of the city. Visit some of the most important monuments and sites, like the Acropolis and the Ancient Agora.

Take a stroll on one of Athens’ most picturesque pedestrian streets, Areopagitou Street, and walk up and down Filopappou and Areopagus hills for amazing views of the Acropolis.

Itinerary Notes: In my opinion, the time of the year and weather conditions can help shape your itinerary while in Athens. With this in mind, I would totally recommend keeping the Acropolis and the Acropolis Museum as the last activity of your day if you are in Athens during the summer.

At the same time, if you visit Athens in winter you can go to the Acropolis early and finish with the Ancient Agora.

Obviously these are just my suggestions, and you can follow the winter itinerary in summer, but you will probably find that the Acropolis gets too crowded in the morning and too hot in the afternoon.

• Hadrian’s Gate and then Temple of Olympian Zeus
• Acropolis Museum
• Walk on Areopagitou Street
• Lunch off Areopagitou Street
• Dinner around Monastiraki square area
• Hadrian’s Gate / Temple of Olympian Zeus
• Lunch around Monastiraki area
• Dinner around Acropolis area

In general, the ancient monuments are normally open from 8.00 – 17.00 in winter months, and from 8.00 – 20.00 in summer months – but check before you visit, especially for the months of April and October.

As the summer months are far more popular with visitors, here's the summer Athens itinerary day 1.

1. Hadrian’s Gate 

If you are in Athens for 3 days, it’s best to stay in a hotel which is close to the Acropolis, as you can then walk to most of the tourist attractions.

** Take a look here for hotels near the Acropolis. ** 

Assuming that you are, it's time to step outside the front door and get started!

After breakfast, check out Hadrian’s Gate for a quick photo opportunity. Also known as Hadrian's Arch, it was built in honour of the Roman Emperor Hadrian and marked the line between the more ancient part of Athens and Hadrian's newer city.

If you get the right angle, you can also see the Acropolis along one of the side streets. You don't need to hang around here too long – probably five minutes will do most people.

2. Temple Of Olympian Zeus

Proceed on to visit the impressive Temple of Olympian Zeus which is just behind Hadrian's Gate. This magnificent structure is one of the biggest ancient temples in the whole of Greece.

The huge columns of the Temple of Zeus in Athens are a wonder to behold, and there are also great views where you can get both the Temple and the Acropolis in the same photo.

How long you spend at these ancient ruins is up to you, but I'd say to allow 20-30 minutes.

Note – The reason you should visit the Temple of Olympian Zeus first, is that it is here where it’s best to buy a combined ticket for many archaeological sites in Athens without having to queue for too long.

The combined ticket costs 30 euro in summer months (April to October), and 15 euro in winter months (November to March). There are discounts available for children, students and seniors, so check if you qualify.

3. Areopagitou Street

Head back to Hadrian's Gate, cross the road, and you'll find yourself at the start of a pedestrianised street. You may find signs pointing to the Acropolis Museum – you won't be heading there now, but later in the day.

Areopagitou Street was pedestrianised just before the Olympic Games in 2004, and is one of my favourite places to walk in Athens. As you walk along, you'll see the Acropolis on your right hand side so there will be plenty of photo opportunities!

Heading towards Thisseio metro station, you will see plenty of buskers and artisans, but also locals and tourists strolling up and down the street.

4. Filopappou Hill

You will soon see a large green area, called Filoppapou (or Philopappou) Hill, on your left hand side. If you want to walk to the top and back, allow about an hour.

From up the hill, you can get great views of the Acropolis, especially if you go up to Filopappos monument. Although it’s not signposted, you can’t miss it – it’s a tall monument at the highest point of the hill.

If you are tempted to walk up Philopappos Hill in the evening, keep in mind there have been some reports of theft in recent years. If you decide to go, be vigilant and avoid having valuables with you.

5. Areopagus Hill

As you keep walking on Areopagitou Street, you will reach a point where the street changes name to Apostolou Pavlou. Turn right there, and you will soon reach another spot with great views of the Acropolis – Areopagus, or Areios Pagos.

This was the court of justice in Ancient Greece, and also the spot where Apostle Paul talked about Christianity in 51 AD.

The Areios Pagos is really a big rock, or a very small hill, and going up will only take you a couple of minutes. As such, it is often quite crowded with locals and tourists alike. Feel free to bring drinks and snacks, and spend some time here admiring the view.

As you continue strolling on Areopagitou Street, you will see that there are plenty of cafés, restaurants and snack bars around, so there are plenty of opportunities for a break.

6. Ancient Agora

If you are in Athens for 3 days, one of the must-see places is the Ancient Agora and the Museum. An area that has been largely excavated after the 1930s, the Agora was the commercial, social and political centre of Ancient Athens. 

You will need at least a couple of hours to see this archaeological site in Athens city centre properly.

Among the highlights are the ancient temple of Hephaestos, the best preserved temple in Greece, the Byzantine churches, and the Agora Museum / Stoa of Attalos. However, even just walking around the Agora is a highlight in itself.

I've got a deep dive guide here for more reading – Visiting the Ancient Agora of Athens .

7. Lunch in Monastiraki

It's been quite a morning, so time for lunch! Greek cuisine is amazing, and best enjoyed at a leisurely pace. The chances are if you are visiting Athens for three days in the summer you'll want a time out in the shade in any case!

Walk by the Roman Agora (and pop into the small site for 10 minutes if you bought the combined ticket) and head to Monastiraki flea market.

Near Monastiraki market, one of my favourite places in the area is Athinaikon restaurant on Mitropoleos street – very clean, and good sized portions. Nearby Ergon Athens is also very good.

After lunch, you can stop by Hadrian's Library if you have the combined ticket (15 minutes max), and then decide between visiting the Acropolis or the Acropolis Museum first.

Top tip: If it's still hot outside (remember temperatures in August in Athens can reach over 40 degrees!), head to the museum first. If not, head to the Acropolis.

8. The Acropolis Museum

It might not be my favourite museum in Athens, but the Acropolis Museum is very popular with visitors, especially as it’s very close to the Acropolis and therefore they can both be visited in a few hours.

The air-condition is quite strong too, so if you are here in summer it will be a nice break from the hot weather. Do not miss the 6-minute video projection explaining the history of the Parthenon.

Allow at least an hour and a half at the Acropolis museum , or more if you want to visit the café / restaurant with great views of the Acropolis.

Tip for the ladies – Some of the floors in the Acropolis Museum are made of glass, so you might prefer to avoid wearing a mini skirt!

Related Post: Athens Museum List

9. Visit The Acropolis And The Parthenon

Definitely the best known ancient site in Greece, the Acropolis is one of those monuments that you simply cannot miss when you visit Athens.

It is classed as a UNESCO World Heritage site, and its famous buildings and temples include the Parthenon, Erechtheion, Propylaea, Temple of Athena Nike, Odeon of Herodes Atticus, and Theatre of Dionysus Eleuthereus among others.

This was the heart of the ancient city of Athens, and its only when experiencing it you realise how advanced Greek culture was, and its importance as the birthplace of Western civilization.

You can spend as much time as you want up on the Acropolis hill, but in general one and a half hours is about enough to appreciate the Parthenon and all the other temples in the complex, and take in the views of Athens.

In order to appreciate better the history of the ancient site, try to read up before you visit. Alternatively, you might want to get a guided tour of the Acropolis .

As the Acropolis is on top of a hill, it gets quite hot during summer, especially from June to August. Furthermore, large groups of tourists arrive every morning – many of them are visiting Athens on a cruise, and come straight from Pireaus port, where they only stop for a few hours.

My suggestion if you are in Athens in summer is to visit the Acropolis in the evening, after 17.30, when the majority of the tourist groups have left, and the temperature starts cooling down.

If you are in Athens in winter, chances are that there won’t be too many tourists and the temperature will generally be fine, so you could visit the Acropolis at any time of the day.

Avoid going up with rain, as the stairs get quite slippery. Remember that opening hours are shorter in winter, so make sure you have arrived there by 15.00 at the latest.

10. Anafiotika, Plaka And Dinner in Athens

Just underneath the Acropolis is a curious area known as Anafiotika. It is thought the name is linked with the people of the island of Anafi who were said to have built the area.

Walking through Anafiotika, you can't help but feel like you've stepped onto a Greek island! The white-washed walls and narrow alleyway really make you feel like you're in the Cyclades.

You've almost reached the end of the day, so it's the perfect time to visit one of the most charming areas in Athens. The famous Plaka area has lovely neoclassical buildings and an abundance of places to eat, as well as souvenir shops.

You can easily walk around the whole area in less than an hour, though you are very likely to get lost and go round in circles – I still do!

Despite the unavoidable touristy vibe, Plaka has some good little tavernas, like Damigos Bakaliarakia on Kidathinaion 41 (for fish).

Nearby Scholarhio on Tripodon 14 is also an interesting choice, as they bring several dishes on a big tray and you can choose the ones you like. If you prefer a slightly busier vibe, try getting a table (or perhaps a seat on the stairs) at Yasemi on Mnisikleous street.

At the same time, if you are too tired to wander around Plaka, there are good options for dinner wherever you are. Places around the Acropolis area often cater for tourist crowds, as you would expect, but the quality tends to be high nevertheless.

I totally recommend Mani Mani on Falirou 10 – not the most budget restaurant in the area, but it’s great food and is constantly rated very highly on Greek food forums.

Day 2 in Athens – Overview And Itinerary

What to expect : On your second day in Athens, start by observing the changing of the Guards in front of the Parliament, then walk through the National Gardens to visit the Panathenaic Stadium.

Depending on your interests, you can visit one or maybe two museums out of the many that Athens has to offer. 

Itinerary Notes : Athens has over 70 museums, and most of them are worth visiting. The biggest one is the National Archaeological Museum, which could take a good four hours to see and is included in the third day’s itinerary.

A good option if you don’t want to spend half a day inside a museum, is the Benaki Museum, which gives a good overview of Greece’s very long history.

Alternatively, if you want to focus on a specific period of time, you can visit the Museum of Cycladic Art or the Byzantine – Christian Museum instead.

• Syntagma Square / Parliament
• National Gardens
• Cable car to Lycabettus Hill
• Panepistimiou trilogy
• Dinner in Agias Eirinis Square

If you don’t mind an early start, try to get to the Parliament just before 8am, so you can see the changing of the Guards. Don't worry if you miss it, as there's one on the hour, every hour.

If it’s a Sunday, there is a bigger, more ceremonial Changing of the Guards at 11am. Make sure to get there by 10.30-10.40 so you can get a decent view.

The guards themselves are known as Evzones, and guard the Tomb of the Unknown Soldier. They stand perfectly motionless for an hour at a time, when they then change with the next set of guards.

The Change of the Guards in Athens takes place just in front of the Parliament. Originally the Palace of King Otto, this beautiful neoclassical building is now home to the Parliament of Greece.

It is actually possible to visit, but you need to book well in advance and unless you speak Greek you won’t really appreciate it much.

From the Parliament, walk through the National Gardens, heading towards Zappeion and the Panathenaic Stadium. The design of the National Gardens was originally overviewed by Queen Amalia herself, and some of the trees are hundreds of years old.

This is one of the relatively few green areas in central Athens, and you are likely to see locals strolling along, or even jogging. There is also a small area with grim cages, where a few birds are kept.

This impressive stadium was originally constructed in the 4th century BC, and was later restored to host the first modern Olympic Games, which took place in 1896.

Nowadays the Panathenaic is used for concerts and other events, but can also be visited during daytime. Until you are inside the Stadium, you won’t be able to appreciate its size – it is really huge! Make sure you also visit the small but informative museum section.

Note that entrance to the Stadium is not included in the combined ticket of the Acropolis and other sites. You can read more here about the Panathenaic Stadium in Athens .

After visiting the Panathenaic Stadium, take a taxi to upmarket Kolonaki area, one of the nicest areas of central Athens. You can stop at Kolonaki square and have a coffee or light meal at the famous Da Capo café, which is great for people watching.

If you are interested in shopping, this area is good to explore though prices are generally higher than in other areas in Athens.

Museums in Athens – Your Choice

As mentioned earlier, Athens has over 70 museums, of which the large majority are well-kept and worth visiting.

While some people would run from one museum to the next, I would generally recommend visiting one museum a day, and have time to reflect on what you saw – then again, the choice is yours.

Based on my own visits, I would recommend one of the following four museums in Athens. These are all within a five minute walk of one another, and set you up nicely for continuing the Athens sightseeing itinerary for the day.

Benaki Museum – Summarizes the history of Greece with carefully selected artefacts. If you are planning to go to the National Archaeological Museum on day 3, it’s probably best to skip the Benaki. Read more here – Benaki Museum .

Museum of Cycladic Art – An excellent museum on the Cycladic civilization and ancient Greek art, including a really interesting section on life in Ancient Greece. Read more here – Cycladic Art Museum Athens .

Byzantine and Christian Museum – Focuses on the Byzantine history of Greece, largely unknown to most visitors. It is really well laid out, and very informative. Read more here – Byzantine Museum in Athens .

War Museum – Greece has a long history of wars, and this museum gives a good overview of the most recent ones. Read more here – Athens War Museum .

Time for some more views! If the weather is pleasant and you are not tired, you can hike up Lycabettus Hill, or Likavittos in Greek. It takes about a half hour, and it’s not super steep, so anyone with reasonable levels of fitness can easily walk up.

However, if you are tired or just lazy, you can take a taxi or the cable car from Aristippou street. This will drop you off very close to the highest point of Lycabettus. Many people choose to go here for sunset, but any time of the day is actually pretty cool.

Coming down from Lycabettus Hill, walk towards Panepistimio metro. Just outside the entrance, you will see three neoclassical buildings – the Library, the Athens University and the Academia of Athens.

These superb buildings were designed in the mid-1800s by the Danish architects Hans Christian Hansen and Theophil Hansen, and completed with the aid of various donations.

They are among the few neoclassical buildings that still remain intact in Athens. Unfortunately they are not open to the public, but you can still admire them from the outside.

Leaving the Trilogy behind, you can now walk back to Syntagma metro in the city center, and head down Ermou Street, a buzzing pedestrian street lined up with clothes and shoe stores.

This is one of the busiest commercial streets in Athens. There are plenty of shops on the side streets around Ermou as well, but many of them are closed on Monday, Wednesday and Saturday evenings, and all day Sunday – that’s Greece!

For dinner, you can head to hip Agias Eirinis square. This is one of the areas where new restaurants and bars open every now and then – I’ve found that Melilotos has had good quality on a pretty constant basis but it’s also popular so you might not be able to find a table.

There are also many nice bars around, like Noel or Baba Au Rum. If you prefer something more alternative, check out Booze bar – there is often an exhibition on the top or bottom floor, and you might also notice people playing chess.

Day 3 in Athens – Overview And Itinerary

What to expect : On your last day in Athens, it’s worth spending a couple of hours in the morning to explore the food market in Athens, see some street art in Psirri area, check out Monastiraki market and visit Kerameikos ancient site and museum.

Itinerary Notes : In the afternoon / evening, you have two choices. You can either immerse yourself in Greek history, by visiting the National Archaeological Museum, or take a half-day trip to the Temple of Poseidon in Sounion.

My suggestion is to play it by ear depending on weather and time of year – while the Temple of Poseidon is pretty spectacular, it’s over an hour out of Athens by car, and the whole experience will take you 4-4.5 hours.

• Central food Market
• Psirri area and street art
• Keramikos cemetery – Museum
• National Archaeological Museum
• Exarhia area
• Half-day trip to the Temple of Poseidon at Sounio

I've listed option 1 as the suggest itinerary for day three in Athens below. If you want to find out more about the Temple of Poseidon trip, take a look here – Temple of Poseidon at Cape Sounion .

The Varvakios Central Food Market in Athens is on both sides of Athinas street, between Monastiraki and Omonia metro stations. Most sections and shops of the market open at 7am, so you can get there as early as you feel like.

There are separate sections for the meat, fish and fruit / vegetable markets, but there are also plenty of shops around the area, selling pre-packaged and loose goods.

This is a great place to buy Greek coffee, olive oil, olives, nuts and maybe even cheese to take back home. There are also a few good bakeries, if you like bread and cookies.

Allow an hour for the market and pay attention to your belongings as it can get quite busy at times. If you've booked a city food tour, you'll probably end up here at some point.

Right next to the Varvakios market, you can find the vibrant area of Psirri. While this area is very small, it is home to some of the best street art in Athens – walk around Sarri, Agiou Dimitriou and Louka Nika streets and you will see some great works.

Psirri area is also great for food or desserts – try To Serbetospito tis Nancys for great desserts (beware, the portions are huge) or the famous street food called koulouri, a snack made of dough and sesame seeds.

Definitely a lot more touristy than it was 20-30 years ago, Monastiraki market, on Ifestou street and around, is a place where you can find many unrelated things, among which army clothes and shoes and camping gear.

There are also lots of vinyl record shops, bead shops, and plenty of tacky and not-so-tacky souvenirs. On Sundays the area around Monastiraki has even more flea markets.

If you feel like it, go to the 360 rooftop café / bar, offering some of the best rooftop views of the Acropolis.

From Monastiraki market, walk towards Kerameikos metro, and you will soon find a pedestrian zone leading to Kerameikos ancient cemetery.

This site is very interesting, yet for some reason few tourists come here. If you visit Kerameikos cemetery, you will get a much better idea of the area that Ancient Athens used to occupy, and you will find out more information about the funerary rituals of ancient Athenians.

Find out more here about Kerameikos in Athens .

Just a short walk away from Kerameikos cemetery, Gazi area is more popular for nightlife, but it also offers a few decent options for lunch in the area. You can try Kanella on Konstantinoupoleos street, or pretty much any restaurant on Dekeleon Street.

If you decide to visit the biggest museum in Greece, take a taxi from Gazi and be prepared to walk around a lot! The National Archaeological Museum is really fantastic, but you can’t really see it in one or two hours, unless you are interested in only a few specific rooms.

Allow a good four hours if you want to see everything, and take a break at the café downstairs. Personally, I think this is the best museum in Athens.

For more information on the museum’s highlights, check here – National Archaeological Museum .

The National Museum is next to the infamous area of Exarchia. Sometimes called “the riot area”, Exarchia might strike you as a run-down place, but walking around you will soon realize that it is actually a vibrant and lively area, where lots of students go out for snacks or drinks.

It is worth walking around for a while, though it is much better to walk around with a local who can explain to you the sad history of Exarhia.

From the Polytechnic rising in 1973 to the death of 15-year-old Alexandros Grigoropoulos in 2008 and the subsequent riots in Athens, Exarchia is a pretty unique place.

If you are hungry, there are plenty of very affordable options, such as Oxo Nou, Rozalia or Vergina. If it is only small plates that you are after, an excellent option is Saliggaros on Solomou street.

Phew – we've got to the end of this Athens itinerary for three days! Want to stay longer? Check out this 4 day Athens itinerary

FAQ about spending 3 days in Athens

Some readers planning to visit Athens as part of their Greek vacation have questions similar to:

Is 3 days in Athens enough?

3 days is enough time to see the ancient sites and main attractions in the Greek capital Athens.

How do I get from Athens International Airport to Athens city center?

You can travel from Athens airport to the city center by bus, metro or taxi. The journey takes around one hour.

Do I need a rental car in Athens?

No, you do not need to hire a car to explore Athens. Most of the historical sites are clustered together within the city centre and are within walking distance. If you do need to use transport, the efficient metro system is the best way to get around Athens.

Where to stay in Athens?

If you've not decided where to stay yet, I've got a useful guide. It shows which areas are best, as well as a carefully selected list of hotels and apartments in Athens. Take a look here: Where to stay in Athens .

What are some good Day Trips from Athens?

Staying longer than three days in Athens? There's numerous Athens day trips you can choose from. The most popular of these are the Delphi day trip from Athens, and the three islands cruise to the nearby Saronic Islands. You can just about see the ancient monasteries of Meteora on a day trip, but be warned, it's a very long day!

• Delphi Day Trip from Athens
• 3 islands Day Cruise from Athens
• Mycenae and Epidaurus Day Trip from Athens

For a full guide on other day tours, take a look here – Day Trips from Athens .

Want a full Greece travel itinerary? Here's my guide to 7 days in Greece for first time visitors , and here's 10 ideas on itineraries for 10 days in Greece .

Please pin this Athens 3 Day Itinerary for later

Add this pin to your Athens travel board for later! You might also want to read my travel tips for traveling in Greece .

14 thoughts on “Athens 3 Day Itinerary – What to do in Athens in 3 days”

hi dave thank you so much for posting your 3 day itinerary do you think it is necessary to have a guide for acropolis or is it ok to use guide bookwe will be in athens next week do i need to book combi ticket or get on the day before also wwhat is best way to get to pireaus port thanks again Agnes

Absolutely fine to use a guidebook – maybe better, because you will take your time more and not feel rushed by the pace of the guide. The official site to pre-book tickets is here: https://etickets.tap.gr/ The site looks a bit dated, but it is genuine! Booking a couple of days ahead would be fine. You can now take the metro directly from Syntagma Square to Piraeus port. Keep in mind Piraeus Port is quite large. You might still need to walk some distance. If you are taking a cruise, then you might find a taxi more convenient overall, as the cruise terminal is further from the metro station. Here’s my guide to making the trip the other way around: Piraeus to Athens

Do you recommend the hop on hop bus. and if so, which is the best one.

I’d only really recommend it for people with mobility issues. Athens historic center is walkable, and it’s just easy to get around on foot.

can you buy the combination ticket for sites in athens on line?

Hi Valerie, Yes you can. Info here on combo tickets and different options for seeing the ancient sites in Athens: Athens Combo Ticket

Thank you so much for the article helped me a lot for my plan

Is there a certain taxi service you suggest using while in Athens? Like do they have Uber or Lyft?

Hi, I recommend using the Taxiplon app or Beat – Ride app – these are the two Greek ones, and are better than Uber or Lyft.

We spent 4 days in Athens and used your itinerary to plan our time. It couldn’t have been better! Thank you for all your tips which made our trip as great as it was (especially the glass floors at the acropolis museum!!!!) Would thoroughly recommend your page to anyone coming to Athens!!!

That’s started my week off with a big smile on my face! Thanks for your kind words, and happy to hear that you enjoyed your trip to Athens. All the best, Dave

Thanks for this REALLY usefull blog 🙂

Your site is very helpful for my planned visit to Athens in April. When you suggest the activities for a particular day, how many hours do you think it is required? we tend to get up late in the morning, so may have to skip some of your suggestions if it takes 8 hours to visit them all.

Hi Peter, I’d say that my 2 day Athens itinerary is probably best for you. I have timings on there, and also it covers all the main sites at a nice easy pace. Note: Currently, archaeological sites have winter opening hours, but you may be in luck with longer opening hours in April. So, you’ll need to check closer to the time in regards to when to visit the Acropolis for example.

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AMAZING 2 Days in Athens Itinerary You’ll Love (+ Map & Tips for First Timers)

Posted on Published: September 19, 2023  - Last updated: January 15, 2024

Cobblestone streets, ancient ruins and mouthwatering Greek cuisine – there’s so much to love about Athens, Greece! But how do you make the most of your short time in this vibrant city? From the Acropolis to city markets and even a rooftop restaurants, this 2 days in Athens itinerary has the exact details you need to plan an amazing time in this historic city!

This post may contain affiliate links. For more info, see my  disclosures .

Athens, Greece is a city where every corner whispers history, the aroma of Mediterranean cuisine fills the air and where every alley tells a story. This Athens 2 day itinerary is a whirlwind of ancient marvels, culinary delights and unforgettable moments.

A perfect destination for a quick city escape, or spending a few days here before heading out on an Aegean Sea cruise , or continuing on to other areas of this fabulous country. Whether you have one week in Greece or get to explore it more with a robust 2 weeks Greece itinerary, your 2 days in Athens will certainly be a highlight!

👉Don’t have time to read the whole article? This is the best Athens food tour for amazing Greek food and this is the best 1/2 day tour to see the Acropolis . Also get the complete Greece Travel Guide for Families  for everything you need to know about traveling to Greece with kids!

Before diving into what to do on each day of your time in this ancient city, let’s go over some details that will help you plan your trip.

How many days in Athens?

Athens is honestly a perfect destination for travelers seeking a quick getaway or a stopover on your way to other destinations. After visiting Athens multiple times, my recommendations are…

• One day in Athens: you’ll just see the highlights. It’s a great option if you’re needing to get onto your next destination quickly. Just hope the weather cooperates as many of the activities are outdoors.
• Two days in Athens is the perfect amount to explore the city, learn the history and culture, and also see more of Greece.
• Three days is nice if you have an extended time in the area. You can relax your schedule a bit and dive into the cafe culture of sitting around socializing and people watching for a few hours each day.

But after spending quite a bit of time in the city, I think 2 days is just right!

In this short span, you can explore iconic historical sites like the Acropolis and the Ancient Agora, savor mouthwatering Greek cuisine and immerse yourself in the city’s vibrant culture. Athens’ city size and attraction layout allows you to experience its highlights efficiently, making it an ideal choice if you’re limited on time.

Best time to visit Athens Greece

Unlike other areas of Greece that are extremely seasonal, there’s not really a bad time to visit Athens. During the winter is the slowest time of year for tourism in Greece, with summer being the exact opposite.

If you’re looking for mild weather and reduced crowds, visit Athens in the shoulder season: April – May or September – October. To be honest, that’s the best time of year to visit most of Greece!

Summer is the busy season in Greece, particularly June through August. It’s also the hottest time of the year, making it a great time to visit the ocean or a neighboring island, like Mykonos or Santorini !

But if you’re visiting in the summer, be sure to prepare for the sun and head adequately, and make adjustments to this schedule to rest and recover as needed. That sun is powerful in Athens!

Save money on travel with points: Check out the best credit card offers to save big money by using rewards points for flights and hotels. They’re so good; I regularly have 2-3 in my wallet and book most of my travel with points!

Map of your 2 days in Athens

This is a map of the itinerary in this guide. If you’re wondering what to do in Athens in 2 days, check out the icons within the map and the descriptions below.

The yellow icons are what to see on day 1 and the orange icons are your 2nd day activities. A few alternative options are in blue.

Pro tip: download this map beforehand so you can reference it throughout your time in Athens.

How to get around Athens

While staying in Athens, you do not need a rental car. It’s kind of like visiting Old San Juan, Puerto Rico – there’s no parking and it’s a very walkable city so it just doesn’t make sense.

You’ll likely do a lot of walking during your two days in Athens. Prepare with good walking shoes ! Next, it’s public transportation.

Navigating Athens with public transportation is like picking your own adventure – each mode has its unique charm and purpose. Let’s go through the options so you can determine which is best for you.

• Athens Metro: a sleek, efficient marvel. Use it for speed and comfort when you’re hitting the major attractions or escaping the summer sizzle. Bonus: it’s an affordable option when traveling around Athens, Greece.
• Bus: it’s like the city’s intricate web of veins, connecting neighborhoods that the metro might miss. The schedule can be a bit confusing, but overall it’s an easy form of public transportation that will likely get you close to where you want to be.
• Taxi: still a popular choice with visitors, and reliable! Hailing a taxi is easy enough around the big tourist spots in the city.
• Rideshare: note that there are some Uber operations in Athens, but the more popular rideshare app is called FreeNow.
• Hop on Hop off bus: explore at your own pace. There are 3 route choices, and most of the stops are at or near the activities on this 2 day Athens itinerary.

Pro tip: the Moovit app is a great way to determine which is the best form of public transportation while you’re in Athens, and based on your needs.

Getting from the airport to downtown

One of the biggest challenges for visitors is transportation from the Athens International Airport to the city center. It’s a minimum of 40 minutes from downtown Athens to the airport , so plan for that on your travel days in and out of the city.

• Private transfer or taxi: this is by far the most convenient option, although can be pricey.
• Athens Metro: reliable and affordable if your flights fall within the train hours.
• Bus: this will take the longest amount of time but is a good option when the other two don’t work for you.

Find the exact metro and bus stops on the Athens Airport website .

What to pack for your 2 day itinerary Athens

Be prepared for an amazing two days in Athens with this list of essentials!

• Good walking shoes. This two days in Athens itinerary has you walking a ton around the city. Make sure you wear comfortable shoes and socks. Sandals aren’t very practical on the stone streets and rocky terrain at some attractions.
• Shoulder bag or waist bag . This is to help prevent pickpockets (a challenge in many European cities). This is the shoulder bag I wore all around Greece – it was perfect for carrying a water bottle and other essentials.
• Small reusable water bottle. Be kind to our Earth and carry a reusable water bottle. This water bottle fits in small bags and is perfect between meals.
• Sun protection. Sunscreen and a sun hat are critical, especially in the summertime. These two days in Athens will have you at a lot of outdoor attractions, so prepare for it! I always recommend using mineral sunscreen because it’s better for the Earth’s waterways and marine life.
• Mini umbrella. Depending on when you’re visiting Athens, you may really need an umbrella!
• Power bank and cord. You’re likely going to be taking photos, so have a back up plan so your phone doesn’t die.
• US-Europe adapter plug.  If you’re from the US, you’ll definitely need this. 

Tips for your time in this ancient city

Here are a few more tips before diving into this fabulous itinerary.

• The city is very walkable and this two days in Athens itinerary will have you walking a lot! One of the best tips for traveling to Greece is to have the right shoes and socks for comfort.
• Like many European cities, watch for pickpocketing . I used this credit card bra clip for my trip and it worked like a charm! This was in addition to this shoulder bag .
• Consider buying the Combo Pass . It gets you into 6 archeological sites for 41€, when each are about 10€ so it saves a bunch if you see 4 or more. It’s valid for 5 days and you get to skip the line!! I’ll mark each recommended location with a 🎟️ in this guide!
• Use the Google Translate app. Many information signs at these historic sights have an English interpretation. However, when it’s just in Greek, use the photo tool within the app to translate the info into English.

Athens 2 day itinerary (using this guide)

Alright let’s get to it! This itinerary is laid out to make the most of your time in the city , in a very efficient manner, while still seeing all the top sights. That means you shouldn’t have to walk past something awesome, just to circle back and see it later.

⏰ The timeline for each day gives you enough time to walk from one attraction to the other , with most of them being within 10 or 15 minutes from each other.

And because it’s nice to have options,  you’ll get alternative recommendations so you can customize your Athens itinerary based on what you want to do . 

And for the purposes of seeing as much as you can in a day, this guide assumes you’ll start the day early in Athens. This guide does not include the timeline for organized tours, as they all operate differently. If you decide to take a tour with an expert guide, modify the timeline accordingly.

Pro tip: If you’re flying in or planning to get in mid-morning, swap days 1 and 2 – getting to the Acropolis early in the day is essential!

Let’s dive in!

Day 1 on this Athens itinerary

Your first day in Athens is a captivating blend of ancient history and vibrant modern culture. You’ll find yourself immersed in the echoes of classical Greece while strolling through historic streets and marveling at iconic landmarks.

Acropolis (a favorite stop during your 2 days in Athens)

Estimated time:  2 – 3 hours Schedule:  8:00 – 10:30 am

It’s the most popular tourist attraction in Athens, and for good reason. The Acropolis is what you’ve likely seen in history books in school, in blogs, magazines, social media and on TV. Be sure not to miss it while in Athens!

The Acropolis is the set of buildings upon a hilltop that towers 150 meters (490 feet) above Athens. Most of the structures were built around 400BC.

The Parthenon is the most note-worthy of these buildings. (And honestly a pinch-me moment to see in real life for history lovers!)

If you’re taking an organized tour , you’ll go with the flow, and get so much out of your tour guide on the history of the Acropolis!

🎟️Included in the combo ticket. Skip the line will save you tons of time here!

Acropolis tips

If you’re on your own, here are a few tips to make the most of your time at the Acropolis.

• Use the side entrance – the line will be significantly shorter.
• Arrive before 8:00 and buy the advance pass to skip the line.
• If you want photos without people, hustle to the top! It’s an uphill climb so prepare yourself and take water with you, especially in summer!
• The rocks and stones near the Parthenon are super slick. I saw several people fall! This is definitely a place to wear good walking shoes and skip the sandals.
• If you have mobility challenges, have a taxi drop you at the main gate, which is closer to the top sights in the Acropolis.
• Tour buses start arriving by 9:00am and the site will be full all day, until dusk.

Things to see at the Acropolis

Because there’s so much to see, you likely won’t have a lot of time to review every single information sign and review each building in their entirety. After all, you have a lot to squeeze into your 2 days in Athens!

Be sure to catch these spots:

• Temple of Athena Nike
• Erechtheion
• Odeon of Herodes Atticus
• Theatre of Dionysus

Aeropogus Hill

Estimated time:  less than 30 minutes Schedule:  10:30 – 11:00am

The next stop for the day is actually just outside of the main gate to the Acropolis, and no ticket is needed to enter. Just walk outside the main entrance and climb the few steps to get to the top of the hill.

From Aeropogus Hill, you’ll get views of the Acropolis on the hilltop and the city. You can see the Ancient Agora and Temple of Hephaestus (which are both on day 2 of this 2 days in Athens itinerary).

Watch out for slick rocks on the Aeropogus Hill. Because it’s been visited by millions of people over the years, the rock on the top is very slick.

Acropolis Museum

Estimated time:  1 – 1.5 hours Schedule:  11:00 – 12:30pm

Located just down the hill from the Acropolis, the Acropolis Museum building is made from glass with great views of Athens and on level 3, a fantastic view of the Parthenon. Be sure to spend some time viewing the huge collection of artifacts and historically significant statues.

It’s truly an amazing collection of parts of the Acropolis that have been found and reconstructed over the years . A really cool part is the outdoors where there’s a large archaeological ruins beneath the museum floor, which you can see through glass.

Visiting the Acropolis Museum is kind of like visiting Mount Olympus in the western Peloponnese, the museum helps understand the full story of the Acropolis!

Pro tip: I recommend booking this audio tour and entry ticket , which walks you through the museum plus you’ll get to skip the line.

Lunch in Plaka (a must-see area during your 2 days in Athens)

Estimated time:  1 hour + Schedule:  12:30 – 2:00pm

Plaka, nestled at the foot of the Acropolis in Athens, is a charming and picturesque neighborhood that feels like a journey back in time. It’s almost like you’ve escaped the busy city and are in a quiet escape!

Its narrow cobblestone streets wind through colorful houses, charming cafes (tavernas is the official name in Greece) and quaint shops selling handmade crafts and souvenirs. Find what suits your taste buds to savor Greek cuisine at a traditional taverna , and soak up the rich history and ambiance that this historic neighborhood exudes.

Pro tip: being from the US, I found it a bit challenging at first to adapt to the timelines in Greece. Greeks eat late and very much have a different schedule than many parts of the world. Breakfast isn’t common, lunch begins around 2pm and a typical dinner is about 9 or 10pm. So when you search restaurants near you, be sure to use the ‘open now’ filter!

Oh, and don’t even think about grabbing coffee until at least 8:30am in Athens.

While you’re in Plaka, be sure to visit one of the oldest streets in Greece – Tripodon Street, which is over 2,500 years old! These days, it just looks like most other streets in Athens – showcasing shops, restaurants and other buildings.

Hadrian’s Arch

Estimated time:  quick stop, less than 10 minutes Schedule:  2:00 – 2:30pm

Walking from Plaka towards the Temple of Olympian Zeus, you’ll see Hadrian’s Arch. This ancient structure seems very much out of place – right next to a busy street. But that’s typical of Greece; mixing modern life with ancient ruins.

It only takes a few minutes to stop and admire this architectural marvel that was built nearly 2,000 years ago. Hadrian’s Arch was initially constructed on an ancient street that led from the old city of Athens to the new section

Bonus: this is a free attraction in Athens!

Temple of Olympian Zeus

Estimated time:  up to 1 hour Schedule:  2:30 – 3:30pm

The Temple of Olympian Zeus has unfortunately, seen a lot of destruction over the centuries. But even so you can tell it was grand during it’s prime.

Construction started in the 6th century BC, aiming to be the greatest temple in the ancient world and dedicated to the Olympian god Zeus. The enormous temple originally had 104 columns and today it’s down to just a few left standing.

An interesting thing about traveling around Greece, is that if they find ruins many times they’ll just leave them be until reconstruction. You can see the downed pillars (mainly due to earthquakes and other natural disasters), which have been there for hundreds of years but look like they just fell yesterday!

🎟️Included in the combo ticket.

Panathenaic Stadium (original home of the modern Olympic Games)

Estimated time:  1 hour – 1.5 hours Schedule:  3:30 – 5:00pm

Just a 10 min walk from the Temple of Olympian Zeus is another historical landmark, and a must-see on this 2 day Athens itinerary.

Built originally in 330BC then rebuilt again in 144AD then finally in 1890 for the first modern Olympic Games. It housed the opening ceremony of the first modern-day Olympics in 1896.

The Panathenaic Stadium holds 60,000 people, which is such a sight to see. It’s also incredible that the bleachers are made of marble!

While you’re visiting the Panathenaic Stadium, you can even go under the bleachers and walk the tunnels where the Olympians enter the stadium. It’s surreal and gives you the chills thinking about it!

Further inside, a series of information boards with the history of the stadium are available to read through. Olympic torches and official posters are housed in a room within the stadium, which you can access easily as well.

If you love seeing and learning about the Olympic Games, a 2 weeks Greece itinerary can take you to western Peloponnese, the site of the original Olympic Games played in 330BC.🤯

Visiting the Panathenaic Stadium is a lot like visiting The Colosseum during a 3-day Rome itinerary . So fun!

Athens itinerary, day 1 continued

Whew! So many amazing things to do in Athens. It’s really easy to pack a lot in a day in this fun city. Let’s talk about a few more leisurely activities then dinner to finish off the evening.

Athens National Gardens (peaceful retreat during this Athens 2 day itinerary)

Estimated time:  up to 1 hour Schedule:  5:00 – 6:00pm

At this point in the day you may be getting tired. Or maybe sensory overload from all that history you’ve just soaked in?

Well, visiting the Athens National Garden is a serene and refreshing escape! This lush oasis invites visitors to unwind amidst nature’s beauty and tranquility. It’s in the heart of the city, yet feels so far away from everything.

This pleasant escape has a variety of foliage, birds and wildlife. Stroll along its shaded pathways and discover hidden gems like neoclassical statues and historical ruins, which provide a unique blend of nature and culture.

The Athens National Garden is a green sanctuary that’s well worth exploring , making it a delightful stop for a moment of respite and connection with nature towards the end of your first day in Athens.

Hellenic Parliament

Estimated time:  less than 30 minutes Schedule:  6:00 – 6:30pm

One of the last stops on this two days in Athens itinerary is seeing the Hellenic Parliament. It’s actually located right next to the Athens National Garden, so it’s very convenient.

If you can go right on the hour (in this case, at 6:00pm), you’ll get to see the changing of the guard. It’s a performance in it’s own!

This Greek tradition is a must-see while in Athens, and typically draws a crowd. The Hellenic Parliament is also the location of the monument of the Unknown Soldier. A worthy stop as well.

Syntagma Square

Estimated time:  less than 30 minutes Schedule:  6:30 – 7:00pm

Across the street from the Hellenic Parliament is Syntagma Square. It’s a busy place, especially in the evening. Check out the local street performers, merchants and water fountain in the city square.

It’s historical significance (because of course, you’re in Athens!) is that it’s also been called Constitution Square. This is because it’s the location that the Athenians rose up against King Otto of Greece on September 3, 1843 to demand a constitution.

Today, it’s a common hang out spot great for attending events and people watching. Take a rest for a bit or walk through the square quickly before your evening begins!

Dinner at a rooftop bar (must-do during your two days in Athens)

Estimated time:  2 hours Schedule:  7:00 – 9:00pm

Remember, in Greek culture dinner is late. And after the busy day of walking you’ve had, I bet dinner is just what you’ll need!

While there are hundreds – likely thousands – of restaurants in Athens, a really fun way to celebrate your time in this ancient city is from a rooftop restaurant.

Best rooftop restaurants in Athens

• Couleur Locale (Normanou 3, Athina 105 55, Greece)
• A for Athens (Miaouli 2, Athina 105 54, Greece)
• POINT a (Acropolis Point) (Rovertou Galli 4a, Athina 117 42, Greece)
• Polis Roof Top (Veranzerou 10, Athina 104 32, Greece)

Fun fact: all these restaurants have a view of the Acropolis, which looks phenomenal lit up at night!

Depending on which location you choose (may be based on which has an open reservation), you may want to catch a ride share or taxi, based on how you’re feeling!

Pro tip: for a dinner in Athens at a rooftop bar, you may want to make a reservation in advance, especially during the busy summer months.

If you’re still up for it, and not completely exhausted from the day, grab drinks at a bar near the restaurant you choose or near your hotel.

Day 2 in Athens, Greece

Of your 2 days in Athens, the 2nd day is a bit more laid back than the first. Get a leisurely start to the day, there’s not quite as much walking, and you’ll get more time to enjoy the cafe culture in Greece!

The city’s rich heritage is palpable, whether you’re gazing at historic ruins or savoring authentic Greek cuisine, Athens is a city that seamlessly fuses its past with its present , creating an unforgettable experience that showcases its enduring spirit and timeless charm. Let’s dive into day 2!

Grab breakfast at your hotel before getting a start on your day.

Hadrian’s Library

Estimated time:  less than 1 hour Schedule:  9:00 – 10:00am

A visit to Hadrian’s Library offers a captivating journey into the past. This ancient Roman library , built in the 2nd century AD, reflects the rich history of the city and the enduring legacy of Emperor Hadrian.

As with many of the archaeological ruins in Greece, only parts of the library remain. There’s many structures in the area, including the remains of the Tetraconch Church.

It’s so fascinating to see pieces of these old buildings remain. Your imagination – along with good signage with structural information – helps you understand the way of life for the people of Athens centuries ago.

Roman Agora

Estimated time:  less than 1 hour Schedule:  10:00 – 11:00am

Fun fact: ‘agora’ means a gathering place. Helpful for these next two sites. 🙂

The Roman Agora of Athens historical site dates back to the 1st century BC. It showcases the Roman influence on Athens and offers a glimpse into daily life during that era.

Check out the Gate of Athena Archegetis and wander through the ancient marketplace where traders and philosophers once gathered. Be sure to see the Tower of the Winds, which was the world’s first meteorological center with a sundial, water clock and wind vane!

Ancient Agora of Athens (one of the top things to do in Athens)

Estimated time:  1 hour – 1.5 hours Schedule:  11:00 – 12:30pm

A larger site than the previous two activities, visitng the Ancient Agora of Athens will take you more time to see the highlights.

Perhaps the most historically significant place you’ll visit on your second day of this Athens itinerary, the Agora of Athens is the birthplace of democracy . In fact, brilliant minds like Aristotle and Socrates frequented this spot to study and socialize!

Walk amidst the columns, temples and stoas, you can almost feel the vibrancy of this once-thriving hub in ancient Greece. My favorite spot was the well-preserved Temple of Hephaistos . The building is in spectacular shape, and from here you’ll get another great view of the Acropolis as well.

Monastiraki Square

Estimated time:  less than 1 hour Schedule:  12:30 – 1:00pm

This popular spot is a must-do on your 2 day itinerary Athens! You can start by exploring the Monastiraki Flea Market, where an eclectic array of antiques, vintage finds and souvenirs await. Choose from hats, keychains, clothing, shoes, jewelry, mugs and so much more.

At night, the atmosphere comes alive with lively street performances and music at Monastiraki Square. It’s an eclectic mix, providing visitors a taste of Athens’ bustling street culture and a chance to uncover treasures from its past.

You can walk through the square, shop and people watch before lunch!

Pro tip: Monastiraki Square is an area known for pick-pocketing, so watch your valuables closely here.

Book a photo shoot: The best souvenir, booking a photo shoot while traveling preserves memories of your vacation! I love Flytographer because the photo sessions are fun, easy and affordable. you can get $25 off if you book through this link or use the code SSST.

Lunch at Monastiraki Square

Estimated time:  1 hour – 1.5 hours Schedule:  1:00 – 2:30pm

From traditional Greek food to pizza, gelato and even fresh fruit stands, there’s something for everyone at Monastiraki Square! Sample delectable Greek street food or sip a traditional Greek coffee at one of the many cafes and eateries lining the square.

Find a restaurant that suits your taste buds – there’s plenty around. And don’t forget to filter your search by open restaurants, as some may only be open at dinnertime.

Of the many times I ate at Monastiraki Square, I never had a bad meal!

Varvakios Central Market

Estimated time:  up to 1 hour Schedule:  2:30 – 3:30

Walking a few blocks from Monastiraki Square, you’ll find the largest market in Athens. It’s popularly known as the Varvakios Market, although it’s official name is the Central Municipal Athens Market.

This not only sells goods to purchase but also food and meat. It’s where locals buy their food, and is worth going to so you can get a taste for the Greek culture and way of life.

You could even pick up some spices or nuts as a consumable souvenir! There are some other vendors selling goods at the market as well.

Pro tip: Beware if you have a queasy stomach! I was personally caught off guard by it allllll the kinds of meat available for purchase.🤢

Athens 2 day itinerary, continued

With just a few hours left to explore Athens, there’s a few more things yet to do. The next activity is a good one!

Mount Lycabettus (another favorite during this 2 days in Athens itinerary)

Estimated time:  1 hour Schedule:  3:30 – 5:00pm

Real quick: this is further out of the way than most of the other activities on day 2 of this Athens itinerary. So if there’s anytime to take public transportation, this is it ! However, I’ve walked to and from Lycabettus Hill to Monastiraki Square and even Syntagma Square multiple times, so it’s definitely doable!

This is truly a must-see during your two days in Athens! To be honest, I wasn’t sure it would be worth it, but I’m so glad I got to experience Lycabettus Hill.

Fun fact: Mount Lycabettus is actually the highest point in Athens at 277 meters (908 feet), which is even higher than the Acropolis.

The legend of Mount Lycabettus is that it was created by Athena, the Greek goddess of wisdom. She was moving limestone for the construction of the Acropolis, but accidentally dropped it when she was given bad news by a raven.

To get to the top, you have two options: use the paved trail or ride the Lycabettus Cable Car. You’ll ascend 210 meters (688 feet) either way! It’s just 10€ per person round trip or 7€ per person one way.

Once at the top, enjoy amazing views of Athens to peak of Mount Lycabettus. There’s also a restaurant and bar and St. George church.

Dinner in Athens

Estimated time:  up to 2 hours Schedule:  5:30 – 7:30pm

Okay so for this night you can try out a restaurant – maybe there’s a place you walked past during the last two days in Athens you wanted to try? Or maybe you head back to Monastiraki Square to the plethora of restaurants in that area.

Of course, you could always try another one of the rooftop restaurant suggestions above.

One of my personal favorite restaurants in Athens, which I’ve eaten at on multiple occasions, is Victory. It’s just a block away from the Athens National Garden, at Filellinon 22, Athina 105 57, Greece.

The food at Victory is incredibly fresh, and the owners have traditional Greek hospitality and certainly show you a good time!

Dessert at Mona Lisa Gelato

Estimated time:  up to 1 hour Schedule:  7:30 – 8:30pm

I had sooo many delicious desserts in Athens (and Greece in general), but one that particularly stands out is gelato. My husband and I have ice cream or gelato almost every destination we go to, and I’d have to say that the gelato we had in Athens reigns supreme!

During your Athens 2 day itinerary, the best place in Athens to get gelato is Mona Lisa Gelato, located at Adrianoy 48, Athina 105 55, Greece. It’s very close to the Ancient Agora of Athens and Hadrian’s Library.

With flavors like Banana Caramel, Blueberry Cheesecake, Pistachio and Belgium Dark Chocolate, how can you go wrong?

Pro tip: expect a line ! But don’t worry about the wait, they’re open until 1:00am most nights!

It’s a perfect way to end your time in Athens, honestly.

2 day Athens itinerary: additional things to do

It’s nice to have options, isn’t it? Well if you find that one of the things above isn’t your cuppa tea, here are some alternative ideas for how to fill your time!

And bonus: most are indoors, which offers a great alternative on hot summer days!

2 days in Athens itinerary: more ideas

• National Archaeological Museum. Learn about both art and handicraft throughout the ancient periods in Greece. Perfect for those who love Ancient Greek mythology, archeology and art.
• Benaki Museum of Islamic Art. This is one of the lesser known museums and attractions in Athens, but worth a visit. See the diverse selection of art, and better understand the Islamic influence on Greek culture throughout history.
• National Observatory of Athens. This place is amazing to see during a night tour! See the night sky through a telescope while an astronomer explains what you’re seeing. So fun.
• Philopappos Hill. Another hill to climb in the city for beautiful views of Athens! Surrounded by nature, this is a great spot to go for sunset or sunrise. This underrated spot is more peaceful, and you likely won’t find crowds here, either.

Alright do you have your plan set for your 2 days in Athens? Next let’s go over a few more details for your time in the city.

Where to stay in Athens

You’ll want a location convenient for all the walking you’ll be doing. The main attractions within Athens are all within a few miles of each other, so put yourself right in the middle of the action.

Pro tip: if you’re a light sleeper use a (free) white noise app on your phone or bring ear plugs for overnights. The city is really old with old buildings and a vibrant nightlife, so prepare for lots of city noise.

My first night in Athens there was a party with live music in the apartment across from the hotel, which was enough music for a block dance party. It was a fun vibe…all the way until 3:00am. 🤪

Places to stay in Athens Greece

• AboV Athens. This boutique hotel in the city center is prime location, and won’t break the bank during your 2 days in Athens. Be sure to book a room with a balcony and request a high floor for views of the Parthenon!
• Central Stay Athens. Close to Monastiraki Square and the Ancient Agora of Athens, this is a great spot to be.
• Evripides Hotel. With views of the Parthenon from your terrace, this is another excellent spot in the city center.

And if you’re traveling to Greece with kids, check out these best Athens hotels for families !

2 days in Athens

Can you believe all the sightseeing and amazing experiences you can see in just two days in Athens? With its rich tapestry of history, from ancient wonders like the Acropolis to the birthplace of democracy, Athens immerses you in the cradle of Western civilization.

Savor mouthwatering Greek cuisine at tavernas, stroll through charming streets, and take in breathtaking views from scenic vantage points like Lycabettus Hill. Athens is a place where the past mingles seamlessly with the present, and you’re sure to enjoy your time in this extraordinary city.

Hope you have a great time during your 2 days in Athens!

Related content to read next: 29 Best Greek Islands for Couples You’ll Love (Romance, Beaches, Adventure + More) Incredible Aegean Cruise in the Greek Islands (Plus Honest Celestyal Cruises Review) Mykonos vs Santorini: Which is the PERFECT Greek Island for You?

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Thursday 5th of October 2023

What a nice 2-day itinerary! Thanks for the combo pass and public transportation tips. Very useful!

Oh you're so welcome. I hope you get to visit Athens soon :)

Great itinerary for 2 days in Athens. You visit all the best bits for first timers.

Thanks Sharyn! It's such a fun city to explore :)

Wednesday 4th of October 2023

I’ve been meaning to get to Athens for years! Do you think the city is very vegetarian-friendly? I don’t want to be stuck eating salad and pita bread every day…

Yes, it's absolutely vegetarian-friendly! I ate vegetarian several times while in the city. Greek food in general is so healthy and you can definitely find meatless options many places :)

Such a detailed guide! I have been to Athens only once for a day and while I enjoyed it I wasn't sure what to see/do on a second trip. But now I have several good ideas - would love to visit the market (for the nuts and spices, not the meat) and Mount Lycabettus looks fun too.

Oh yay Kitty, I'm so glad you got some fresh ideas. Hope you make it back to Athens soon!

THE JOURNAL

Travel Inspiration

How Many Days in Athens Do You (Really) Need? We’ve Got the Answer

The Modern Travel Agency

https://www.foratravel.com/the-journal/how-many-days-in-athens

Planning a trip to Greece ? There’s a good chance that your first stop will be Athens, Greece’s culturally rich capital. But here’s a question: how many days in Athens do you actually need to get the full experience? 

Read on for our full guide. Ready to travel?  Connect with Fora  to get started. We’ll help you plan the trip of a lifetime and score you all sorts of VIP hotel and travel perks.

First, is Athens truly worth visiting?

The short answer: yes. 

Steeped in history and brimming with cultural significance, Athens tops many lists of where to go in Greece for the first time . Greece’s capital is a treasure trove of ancient ruins, where travelers can immerse themselves in the rich heritage of Ancient Greece. But beyond the historical sites, Athens is home to a delicious gastronomic scene, electric nightlife (check out our Greece nightlife guide ) and vibrant energy.

So yes, Athens is absolutely worth visiting, and one of the best places to stay in Greece . Period.

How many days in Athens do you need to get the full experience?

“How many days in Athens” is a tricky question. There’s certainly enough to do in Athens to keep you occupied for weeks, but if you’re only interested in seeing the highlights, two to three days are likely enough. 

It really depends on what you want to do. That said, here’s a better question:

How many days in Athens do you have ? Fora can help you build the itinerary that fits your schedule

It doesn’t really make sense to plan a massive itinerary if you only have so many days to explore. So, “How many days in Athens do you want to spend” or “How many days in Athens can you spend” are much better questions. 

We can help you build a customized itinerary that takes your schedule, budget and preferences into account.  Connect with Fora  to get started.

How many days in Athens do you have?

Your options largely depend on how many days in Athens you have. Here are a few ideas based on the number of days you want to spend in the capital.

What to see if you have 1-2 days in Athens

The acropolis & museum.

Regardless of how many days in Athens you have, the Acropolis and its accompanying museum are among the city’s most famous sites. Consider it a must-see stop. This Greek Golden Age marvel, a UNESCO World Heritage Site , was built nearly 2500 years ago to celebrate Athens’ flourishing culture and victory over the Persian Empire in the Greco-Persian Wars. 

The National Archaeological Museum

Another incredible destination for Greek history and culture enthusiasts, Athens’ National Archaeological Museum is the preeminent authority on ancient Mediterranean art and mythos. The National Archaeological Museum is among the most prestigious museums in the world. Even if you’re only passively interested in art and culture, the museum is worth visiting.

Monastiraki Square

Finally, Monastiraki Square is a melting pot of historical, contemporary, local and foreign influences. The site has long been home to the Monastiraki Flea Market, where vendors sell everything from antiques to street food, as well as to gorgeous architecture, bustling cafés and exciting street performers. 

There may not be a better place in all of Athens to get a sense of the city’s unique vibe. 

Fora’s take

If you only have so many days in Athens to explore, these three places are so close together that you won’t have to worry too much about logistics. Plus, we can help you plan for details like public transportation, dining pit stops and so on.

More things to see and do if you have 3–4+ days in Athens

Temple of Olympian Zeus (aka the Olympieion)

If you have a little more time to explore Athens, another incredible example of Classical architecture is the ruins of the Temple of Olympian Zeus, better known as the Temple of Zeus and sometimes called the Olympieion. The temple is among the largest in Ancient Greece, a befitting attribute highlighting Zeus’ significance to the Ancient Greeks. 

Found within the Royal Garden, itself a scenic area, the ruins offer a quiet escape from Athens’ otherwise bustling energy. 

Plaka (aka the “Neighborhood of the Gods”)

Just below the Acropolis, you’ll encounter Athens’ oldest neighborhood, Plaka. Here you’re just as likely to encounter Greek, Roman and Byzantine ruins and architecture among its labyrinthine streets as you are trendy shops, traditional tavernas and colorful Old-World homes.

Plaka — one of the reasons Athens is among the best places to stay in Greece — is a great place to get lost among the narrow streets while taking in the local ambiance.

BTW: one of our favorite boutique hotels in Athens , A77 Suites, is found in the heart of Plaka. It’s a cute gem hidden behind a local boutique clothing store. Connect with Fora to plan and book your stay.

Fora Perks at A77 Suites by Adronis:

$50 hotel / resort credit.

Breakfast daily.

Upgrade & extended check-in/out whenever possible.

Day trips to Hydra, Cape Sounio…

Depending on how many days in Athens you have, a fun day trip or two can be a fun way to get the most out of your Greece vacation. For example, you can travel off the beaten path to Hydra , a nearby Greek Isle, or visit Cape Sounio, home to the Temple of Poseidon and a picturesque, rocky coastline. The options are nearly endless, which leads us to our last point:

Not sure how many days in Athens you need? Plan your trip with Fora

Whether it’s planning out how many days in Athens you need, booking a stay at the best hotels in Greece or planning activities on the best Greek islands for families , Fora is ready to help.

Ready to travel? Fill out the form below to get started.

Need more Greece travel inspo? Check out our guides to the most unique places to visit in Greece or where to stay in Crete .

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Itinerary for Greece & Greek Islands

Greece › Itineraries Updated: March 12, 2024 By Santorini Dave

• Aegina – where to stay
• Andros – where to stay
• Athens – where to stay
• Corfu – where to stay
• Crete – where to stay
• Delphi – where to stay
• Hydra – where to stay
• Meteora – where to stay
• Milos – where to stay
• Mykonos – where to stay
• Nafplio – where to stay
• Naxos – where to stay
• Paros – where to stay
• Poros – where to stay
• Rhodes – where to stay
• Santorini – where to stay
• Spetses – where to stay
• Zakynthos – where to stay
• Greek Islands – where to go
• Mainland Greece – where to go
• Peloponnese – where to go

The Acropolis and Plaka (my favorite neighborhood) in Athens , Greece. I recommend at least a few days in Athens for any first-time visitor to Greece.

My Favorites for First Time Visitors Best Places to Visit: Athens • Santorini • Mykonos • Naxos • Paros Best Tours: Santorini Wine Tours • Santorini Boat Tours • Mykonos Boat Tours • Athens Historical Tours Best Ancient Sites: Delphi , Meteora , Delos (near Mykonos), and the Peloponnese are some of the historical highlights of Greece. Best for Honeymoon: Santorini is a marvelous honeymoon destination . On Crete, Chania is also great. Best Restaurants: Most towns and every island have several good restaurants. Athens , Naxos , and Santorini are loaded with great places to eat (both modern and traditional). Best Beaches: Naxos has the best beaches in Greece . Best Nightlife: Santorini • Mykonos Most Fun Activity: The Fira-Oia Hike along the caldera in Santorini. (Bonus: It’s free!) Best Hotels: Athens , Santorini , and Mykonos have the best luxury hotels. How Many Days in Greece: For most tourists, I recommend a visit of 10 to 15 days. This allows for a few days in Athens; a day or overnight trip to Nafplio, Delphi, or the Meteora; and a few nights on 2 or 3 Greek islands. Of course, trips of more or fewer days are great too. If possible arrive into one airport and fly out of a different airport so you don’t have to retrace your steps (e.g. Fly into Greece to Athens, and fly out of Greece from Santorini). Can you visit Greece for only two or three nights? Yes, it’s possible, but in this case limit your visit to either Athens or just one Greek island and arrive and depart from the same airport.

Greek Island Itinerary – The Basics

5 Days in Greece Athens – 1 Full Day Santorini, Mykonos, Paros, or Naxos – remainder of time 1 Week in Greece Athens – 1 Full Day Mykonos, Paros, or Naxos – 3 Days Santorini – 3 Days 10 Days in Greece Athens – 1 Full Day Mykonos – 3 Days Paros or Naxos – 3 Days Santorini – 3 Days 2 Weeks in Greece Athens – 2 Full Days Nafplio or Delphi day trip – 1 Day Mykonos – 3 Days Paros – 2 Days Naxos – 2 Days Santorini – 4 Days 3 Weeks in Greece Athens – 2 Full Days Nafplio, Delphi, or Meteora – 1 or 2 Days Mykonos – 3 Days Paros – 2 Days Naxos – 3 Days Milos, Folegandros, or Sifnos – 2 Days Santorini – 4 Days Agios Nikolaos (Crete) – 2 Days Chania (Crete) – 3 Days Greece Itinerary: Top 5 Highlights 1. The Santorini Caldera Santorini is the most magical and unique Greek island. Boat tours of the volcanic caldera are a highlight of any trip to Greece. 2. The Beaches of Naxos (and Many Greek Islands) There are many Greek islands with fantastic beaches (Mykonos, Milos, Paros, and Crete) but no island has a better beach scene than Naxos. 3. The Parthenon and Acropolis in Athens Athens has lots to see in a compact area. The Plaka, Acropolis and Acropolis Museum are where you should spend most of your time. 4. The Beach Clubs & Nightlife of Mykonos Mykonos is the place to go for an ideal mix of great beaches , beach clubs , and nightlife . 5. The Town of Chania in Crete Chania is a charming town on the island of Crete (the largest Greek island). Both Chania and Heraklio have many international flights to other cities in Europe which make it a great place to start or finish your holiday vacation. And Crete has many amazing tours . Read More Where To Go in Greece Mykonos Travel Guide Santorini Travel Guide Greece Travel Guide Best Hotels in Greece

About Santorini Dave

The Best Time to Visit Greece, According to a Local

T hink of a Mediterranean vacation, and Greece is sure to make your list of must-visit destinations. Its blend of seaside escapes, history, culture and mouthwatering cuisine make it one of the best places to travel for all types of tourists. And let's not forget its islands! They're prime honeymoon hot spots, consistently serving up some of the most romantic getaways . I can fully appreciate the draw—I loved it so much that I moved here, after all. And I'll tell you this: It pays to know the best time to visit Greece before booking your trip.

Greek vacations are more popular than ever. In fact, a recent report from Eurostat, the statistical office of the European Union, found that Greece was one of only six member countries to receive more flights in September 2023 than it did in September 2019. In other words, Greece is bouncing back to pre-COVID-19 levels. And that means you'll have to contend with other tourists if you take a trip here.

As a local who's lived in and written about this eclectic country for more than a decade, I know from experience that it's impossible to avoid tourists entirely. It's all about timing. Whether you want to beat the crowds, bask in the best weather imaginable or travel on the cheap , here's the best time to visit Greece for the ultimate European vacation.

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What is the best time of year to visit Greece?

It's hard to pinpoint a single best time to visit Greece, and that's because it all depends on your priorities and how you weigh crowdedness, cost and climate. To spend the least amount of money, you may need to visit when temps are on the cooler side. For peak sunbathing weather, you'll shell out more cash and contend with greater crowds.

If you want to avoid a Greece overrun by tourists, skip the summer months. In June, July and August, beaches are typically crowded, though it's possible to find hidden coves even during this peak season—especially if you take a small boat tour from or around some of the islands or the Athens coastline.

No matter when you land on Greek soil, you'll have to deal with some tourists. According to Bank of Greece data, 5.76 million international travelers visited the country in the first five months of 2023, proof of Greece's ever-growing popularity. Still, there are quieter times to explore the country, such as during the shoulder-season months of September and October, early November and late March through May. Whether you're discovering ancient ruins, exploring mainland destinations or bopping around little-known islands, you'll find fewer crowds, mild temps and cheaper-than-high-season prices.

For me, the best time to visit Greece is from September until the end of October. The weather on a lot of the southern islands, such as Rhodes and Crete, is still warm enough to swim, with average daytime temperatures of 75 and 73 degrees respectively. Plus, the crowds are gone, as children have headed back to school.

Springtime is also a great option, and I recommend timing your visit so you can experience Greek Orthodox Easter. It usually falls in April or May (in 2024, it occurs on May 5), and it's the most important holiday on the Greek calendar—more so than Christmas even. Expect to eat plenty of delicious lamb and join in neighborhood celebrations and street processions to the local church.

What time of year is the cheapest to visit Greece?

While a Greek getaway isn't necessarily cheap, there are ways to save money when traveling to the country. For starters, avoid the high-season summer months of June, July and August. The winter off-season sees prices drop considerably, and this tends to be the best time to find hotel deals. On Tripadvisor, for instance, the same Athens hotel costs about $52 more in April than in January—and though summer rates aren't available yet, it's safe to bet that the price will rise in June, July and August.

Traveling during the winter will serve you well when booking your flight too. The cheapest airfare from the United States tends to occur during the winter months. When I searched Expedia for flights for a two-week vacation, I found a round-trip ticket from Newark, New Jersey, to Athens in early December going for $473. A round-trip ticket from Newark to Athens in June comes in at $992.

When is the weather the best in Greece?

Best weather is subjective, depending on where you're traveling from and if you like your vacation to be hot. Without a doubt, the summer of 2023 set records. As the Guardian reported, the country had the hottest July in 50 years, with temperatures in Athens repeatedly exceeding 104 degrees. So if you're here for the Mediterranean island sunbathing, you'll need to account for these levels of heat (and maybe plan some indoor activities, just in case).

As a local, I think the best time to travel to Greece for great weather is September, when daytime temperatures are a balmy 82 degrees and sea temperatures 77 degrees, making swimming still possible. The fall months of October and early November average 64 to 72 degrees, so it's pleasant to sit outside at a cafe, sipping the staple drink of a Greek frappe (cold coffee milkshake).

December through February are the country's coldest months, with daytime temperatures averaging 54 to 57 degrees. Thanks to the Mediterranean climate, winters can be mild—but they're also wet. You may even see snow on the mainland in the mountainous areas to the north and on some of the islands, such as Crete. It creates good skiing opportunities, and while they can't compete with some of the world's more famous ski resorts, there are a handful of ski resorts in the country that locals (and in-the-know tourists) use yearly.

When packing your suitcase , think layers for all seasons. And be prepared for high humidity, which makes it feel sticky in the summer and chilly in the winter.

What is the best time of year to go to Athens?

The best time to visit Greece if you're planning to stop in the capital city is during the fall or spring shoulder seasons. In April, May, September and October, daytime and nighttime temperatures aren't uncomfortably hot or too cold. The spring and fall months offer plenty of opportunity to wander the Athenian streets, discovering the small neighborhoods. Plus, the cooler weather makes climbing up to the Acropolis a much more pleasurable experience.

It's also worth mentioning that crowds in the shoulder season and off-season are considerably smaller, so lines to enter the Acropolis are shorter. In fact, the wait to view this ancient monument gets so long in the summer that Greece had to set a cap of 20,000 visitors daily to shorten lines during the dangerous heat. By visiting in the off-season, you won't be waiting in line in the sweltering heat, and there won't be a mad rush to buy a ticket before the cap is reached.

If you're looking for even more things to do in Greece , visit on Ohi Day. The national holiday occurs on Oct. 28 and commemorates the day in 1940 when Greek Prime Minister Ioannis Metaxas rejected Mussolini's ultimatum to have free passage through Greece for his Italian troops. You'll find street parades all over the country on this holiday, but the one in central Athens is particularly impressive, with its added military parade and marching band.

What is the best time to visit Santorini and the other Greek islands?

Greece is famous for its islands, especially Santorini, with its blue-domed churches and sugar cube houses, so atypical for the Cycladic island chain it's located within, and Mykonos, with its cosmopolitan atmosphere, cobbled alleyways and hidden coves. They tend to attract visitors during the summer months, but that may not be the ideal time to vacation here.

If you're looking for a beach vacation away from the crowds, my advice would be to book a trip for September. It'll still be warm enough to swim and get a nice tan, but you won't have to deal with a ton of tourists.

Don't rule out wintertime for your trip to the Greek islands. Admittedly, much shuts down in the off season, but you'll get to experience the real Greece, have frequent sunny days and still find places to eat traditional Greek food, such as souvlaki (the locals need to eat too!). The lack of crowds allows you to roam the islands at your own pace.

Besides, temps aren't too bad even in the winter. Santorini's caldera entices with morning mists floating over its surface. And with average winter temperatures of 55 degrees, it's not too chilly.

There are several flights from mainland Greece to the islands that are cheaper during the spring and fall, but my favorite way to travel is by ferry. The lack of competition on ferry routes means this method of transportation isn't cheap at any time of the year, but Greek ferries resemble mini cruise ships and offer lovely cabins on longer routes. Make it a part of the whole experience: Take a weekend break in Athens followed by a journey by ferry to the islands. Note that ferries have a reduced schedule in the spring and fall months, with more connections in the summer.

How many days in Greece is enough?

Just as you would when planning a trip to destinations like London and Hawaii , start by considering where you'll be flying out of. The ideal number of days to spend in Greece depends on where you're traveling from. If you're flying from the United States, you probably want to spend longer in the country than if you're adding a stop in Greece after visiting nearby Italy.

Also consider how much of the country you want to see and the type of tourism you're interested in. Do you want to stick to a few days in Athens exploring the ancient sites, then head to an island for some fun in the sun? Do you want to just connect in Athens before flying immediately to a Greek island, or would you rather make the city your home base for the entire trip? Or are you interested in heading to the Greek countryside to experience traditional villages?

Most trips start and end in Athens, where you can experience the city in at least three full days. Visitors then tend to hop on a ferry or fly to a popular Greek island like Santorini or Mykonos, either basing themselves there or ferry-hopping between two or three others. You can reach mainland destinations by train or by hiring a car—factor in travel times between destinations when planning your vacation.

For a decent taster of the country, plan for a 10-day trip: Athens, plus one or two islands. Two weeks can provide a lovely combination of a city break and countryside getaways, plus swimming and sunbathing around the Greek coast.

One thing's for sure: Don't try to see it all in one trip. Greece is a country to savor and explore at leisure, with time to wander the charming cobbled streets and sip a frappe in a local cafe, watching local life unfold around you. Greece and its monuments have been around for centuries—they're not going anywhere.

Places to stay in Greece

Most vacations in Greece will commence in Athens, and there are many neighborhoods to choose from when booking a stay. While not a sprawling city by U.S. standards, it is one of the bigger European cities.

If you've never visited Athens before, a hotel located smack dab in the center, near the Acropolis and its accompanying museum, is a great choice. The upscale Herodion Hotel attracts visitors with its rooftop-bar views of the famous monument. Plus, it offers airport transfers.

Boutique hotels such as Asomaton (don't miss its relaxing plunge pool) and Altar Suites have cozy vibes in lovingly renovated centuries-old buildings. They're within walking distance of all Athens's main sites, as well as the contemporary old gasworks district of Gazi, where you'll find nightlife, tavernas and the industrial museum.

Heading to Santorini, base yourself at either Voreina Gallery Suites or Zannos Melathron Hotel . Both properties were renovated to their former splendor in the less-busy village of Pyrgos. You still get the magnificent Caldera sunset views without the crowds.

In Mykonos, Mykonos Town makes the best base if you don't mind being in the thick of it all. Hotels such as Semeli and Myconian Korali Relais & Chateaux have sleek Grecian lines and unfussy furnishings. Both have pools and airport transfers.

Book your visit

• Eurostat : "Commercial flights in the summer still below 2019 level"
• Enterprise Greece : "Greek tourism on track for record-setting year"
• Schengen Visa News : "Greece to Introduce Caps on Daily Visitors to Acropolis"
• The Guardian : "Heatwave set to be Greece's longest as extreme weather continues in Europe"
• World Bank Group : "Climate Change Knowledge Portal–Climatology; Greece"
• Greek National Tourism Organisation : "Athens"

The post The Best Time to Visit Greece, According to a Local appeared first on Reader's Digest .

Watch CBS News

Solar eclipse maps show 2024 totality path, peak times and how much of the eclipse people could see across the U.S.

By Aliza Chasan

Updated on: April 9, 2024 / 5:00 AM EDT / CBS News

A total solar eclipse  crossed North America Monday with parts of 15 U.S. states within the path of totality. Maps show  where and when astronomy fans could see the big event  as skies darkened in the middle of the day Monday, April 8.

The total eclipse first appeared along Mexico's Pacific Coast at around 11:07 a.m. PDT, then traveled across a swath of the U.S., from Texas to Maine, and into Canada.

About 31.6 million people live in the path of totality , the area where the moon fully blocked out the sun , according to NASA. The path ranged between 108 and 122 miles wide. An additional 150 million people live within 200 miles of the path of totality.

Solar eclipse path of totality map for 2024

The total solar eclipse started over the Pacific Ocean, and the first location in continental North America that experienced totality was Mexico's Pacific Coast, around 11:07 a.m. PDT, according to NASA. From there, the path continued into Texas, crossing more than a dozen states before the eclipse enters Canada in southern Ontario. The eclipse exited continental North America at around 5:16 p.m. NDT from Newfoundland, Canada.

The path of totality included portions of the following states:

• Pennsylvania
• New Hampshire

Small parts of Tennessee and Michigan also experienced the total solar eclipse.

Several major cities across the U.S. were included in the eclipse's path of totality, while many others saw a partial eclipse. These were some of the best major cities for eclipse viewing — though the weather was a factor :

• San Antonio, Texas (partially under the path)
• Austin, Texas
• Waco, Texas
• Dallas, Texas
• Little Rock, Arkansas
• Indianapolis, Indiana
• Dayton, Ohio
• Cleveland, Ohio
• Buffalo, New York
• Rochester, New York
• Syracuse, New York
• Burlington, Vermont

Map of when the solar eclipse reached totality across its path

The eclipse began in the U.S. as a partial eclipse beginning at 12:06 p.m. CDT near Eagle Pass, Texas, before progressing to totality by about 1:27 p.m. CDT and then moving along its path to the northeast over the following few hours.

NASA shared times for several cities in the path of totality across the U.S. People could have also  checked their ZIP code on NASA's map  to see when the eclipse was to reach them if they were on, or near, the path of totality — or if they saw a partial eclipse instead.

How much of the eclipse did people see if they live outside the totality path?

While the April 8 eclipse covered a wide swath of the U.S., outside the path of totality observers may have spotted a partial eclipse, where the moon covers some, but not all, of the sun, according to NASA. The closer they were to the path of totality, the larger the portion of the sun that was hidden.

NASA allowed viewers to input a ZIP code and see how much of the sun was to be covered in their locations.

Could there be cloud cover be during the solar eclipse?

Some areas along the path of totality had a higher likelihood of cloud cover that could interfere with viewing the eclipse. Here is a map showing the historical trends in cloud cover this time of year. 

You could have checked the latest forecast for your location with our partners at The Weather Channel .

Where did the solar eclipse reach totality for the longest?

Eclipse viewers near Torreón, Mexico, got to experience totality for the longest. Totality there lasted 4 minutes, 28 seconds, according to NASA. 

Most places along the centerline of the path of totality saw a totality duration of between 3.5 and 4 minutes, according to NASA. Some places in the U.S. came close to the maximum; Kerrville, Texas, had a totality duration of 4 minutes, 24 seconds.

What is the path of totality for the 2044 solar eclipse?

The next total solar eclipse that will be visible from the contiguous U.S. will be on Aug. 23, 2044.

Astronomy fans in the U.S. will have far fewer opportunities to see the 2044 eclipse they had on April 8. NASA has not yet made maps available for the 2044 eclipse but, according to The Planetary Society , the path of totality will only touch three states.

The 2024 eclipse will start in Greenland, pass over Canada and end as the sun sets in Montana, North Dakota and South Dakota, according to the Planetary Society.

Aliza Chasan is a digital producer at 60 Minutes and CBSNews.com. She has previously written for outlets including PIX11 News, The New York Daily News, Inside Edition and DNAinfo. Aliza covers trending news, often focusing on crime and politics.

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