Travel to Athens
Athens Itinerary: How Many Days Do You Need to Explore the Best of Athens?
If you’re short on time but eager to explore the best of Athens, you can cover most of the main attractions in just two days. However, if you have a bit more time to spare, we highly recommend adding an extra day to your itinerary to fully experience the city’s rich culture, history, and culinary scene.
Day 1: Iconic Athens Highlights
Start your Athens adventure by visiting the world-famous Acropolis, a UNESCO World Heritage site that includes the iconic Parthenon, Erechtheion, and Temple of Athena Nike. Take your time exploring the ancient ruins and marveling at the panoramic views of Athens from the hilltop.
Next, make your way to the Acropolis Museum, which houses a remarkable collection of artifacts from the Acropolis site, including sculptures, friezes, and artifacts from the ancient Greek civilization.
Afterward, stroll through the historic Plaka neighborhood, known for its narrow streets, charming shops, and traditional tavernas. This is a perfect spot for a leisurely lunch, where you can indulge in authentic Greek cuisine and savor local specialties.
In the afternoon, head to the Ancient Agora, an ancient marketplace that was once the heart of Athens’ civic and commercial life. Here, you can explore the ruins of the Temple of Hephaestus, the Stoa of Attalos, and other ancient structures that offer insights into Athens’ ancient past.
Day 2: More Athens Wonders
On your second day in Athens, start with a visit to the National Archaeological Museum, one of the world’s most important museums showcasing ancient Greek artifacts. It houses an extensive collection of sculptures, pottery, jewelry, and other treasures from various periods of Greek history.
Next, head to the Temple of Olympian Zeus, one of the largest temples in ancient Greece that took over 600 years to complete. Marvel at the impressive Corinthian columns that still stand today, giving you a sense of the grandeur of ancient Greek architecture.
Take a leisurely walk in the lush National Gardens, a peaceful oasis in the heart of Athens, perfect for a moment of relaxation or a picnic. You can also visit the Zappeion Hall, an elegant neoclassical building located within the gardens.
As the day winds down, make your way to the Monastiraki area, known for its bustling markets, trendy shops, and vibrant street art. Here, you can shop for souvenirs, sample local street food, and soak in the lively atmosphere of modern Athens.
Day 3 (Optional): Foodie Delights
If you have an extra day in Athens, use it to further explore the city’s culinary scene. Athens is renowned for its diverse and delicious food options, ranging from traditional Greek tavernas to trendy modern eateries.
Indulge in local specialties such as moussaka, souvlaki, spanakopita, and baklava, and discover the flavors of Greece through a culinary walking tour or a cooking class. You can also venture into lesser-known neighborhoods to sample local street food, visit food markets, or take a wine tasting tour to savor Greek wines.
In conclusion, while two days are enough to cover the main attractions in Athens, an extra day or more will allow you to delve deeper into the city’s cultural riches, history, and vibrant food scene. Plan your itinerary accordingly and make the most of your time in this fascinating ancient city!
The Ultimate Guide: Where to Stay in Athens - Best Areas and Hotels
When planning a trip to Athens, one of the most important decisions you’ll need to make is where to stay. Here are two popular neighborhoods that offer different experiences:
Monastiraki – Situated at the base of the Acropolis, Monastiraki is the heart of Athens. This central neighborhood offers easy access to most of the city’s top tourist attractions, whether by foot or metro. In addition, you’ll find a plethora of fantastic restaurants and bars to explore.
Plaka – Located southeast of Monastiraki, Plaka is a charming neighborhood with a village-like atmosphere. It’s a great spot for shopping, with numerous artisanal shops and boutiques selling handmade goods. In addition, Plaka offers a variety of traditional Greek tavernas and cafes where you can sample local cuisine.
Must-See Attractions: Top Things to Do in Athens
Acropolis (Parthenon) – Unmissable landmark of Athens, featuring the iconic Parthenon temple.
Monastiraki – Central location with easy access to major sites like the Acropolis, Syntagma Square, and National Garden. Offers a vibrant atmosphere with great restaurants, cafes, rooftop bars, and shops.
Plaka – Adjacent to Monastiraki, Plaka is known for its charming streets lined with shops offering souvenirs, rugs, clothing, and more.
Syntagma Square – Central square housing the Greek Parliament, a hub of activity in Athens.
National Garden – Picturesque park located near the Greek Parliament and Panathenaic Stadium, perfect for a leisurely stroll.
Panathenaic Stadium – Historic stadium that hosted the first modern Olympic Games, a must-visit for sports enthusiasts.
Lycabettus Hill – Tallest hill in central Athens, providing panoramic views of the city and the Acropolis. Can be reached by hiking or taking the funicular.
Markets – Monastiraki and Plaka are home to bustling markets offering an array of food, souvenirs, spices, and more. The Central Municipal Athens Market is a must-see for foodies.
Walking Tour – Take a self-guided walking tour with Rick Steves’ free app, covering all the major sites from Monastiraki to the Acropolis, allowing you to explore at your own pace and learn about the city’s rich history.
Savoring Athens: Top Restaurants for Authentic Greek Cuisine
Karamanlidika – This restaurant is known for its authentic Greek food and is possibly the best restaurant in Athens. All the food here is incredible, and the service is excellent.
Diporto – This underground restaurant is not too far from Monastiraki Square and offers a unique dining experience. The restaurant makes its own wine, which is complimentary with your meal. The food is served as a set menu, and it is always different, making it a unique experience.
Klimataria – This traditional Greek tavern requires reservations in advance, but it is worth the effort. The restaurant makes its own wine, and the food is incredible.
Kostas – This popular souvlaki shop near Monastiraki Square is known for serving its souvlakis with a spicy tomato sauce instead of the typical tzatziki. The food here is delicious and always fresh.
Street Souvlaki – This good souvlaki place not too far from Kostas serves excellent lamb gyro. It is worth trying if you are in the area.
Stani – This popular cafe is famous for its Greek yogurt with honey and walnuts, Greek coffee, and abodogola (top cream with honey). It’s a great place to relax and enjoy some delicious Greek sweets.
Apieton – This bakery has many types of Greek pies, including pastries filled with feta, chopped spinach, and egg. It is worth stopping by for a quick snack.
Lukumadez – This popular shop serves stuffed dough balls covered with chocolate and other toppings. You can also choose what you want your donuts filled with. The “Feta Lover” is a savory option filled with feta and covered with spicy honey. It’s a must-visit for those with a sweet tooth.
