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With a recorded history spanning over 3,400 years, Athens is one of the world’s oldest cities. Regarded as the birthplace of democracy, arts, science and philosophy of the western world, Athens has undergone significant change in recent years. A modern metropolis with an old town feel, this is where antiquity meets futurism, and ancient monuments fuse with a trendy, cosmopolitan scene.
Explore everything that Europe’s ancient capital has to offer to the intrepid traveller, with our three day Athens itinerary.
Athens 3-day itinerary at a glance
Day 1
Start your day at the iconic Acropolis, where you’ll come across the world-famous Parthenon. Make your way to Areopagus or the Hill of Ares, offering stunning vantage points over the Acropolis. The next stop is the Acropolis museum, considered to be one of the best museums in the world. Spend your evening taking a stroll around the tiny village of Anafiotika and some shopping at Monastiraki Square.
- Acropolis of Athens
- Areopagus
- Acropolis Museum
- Anafiotika
- Monastiraki Square
Day 2
Begin at the scenic Filopappou hill that offers an incredible view of the Acropolis, after which you can head over to the Kerameikos cemetery, an ancient burial and residential site with plenty of remains to gaze upon. Right next to it is the famed Ancient Agora, the original commercial hub attributed to some of the most important happenings in history, philosophy, and politics. Spend your evening browsing the Central Municipal Market, and head to the neighbourhood of Psyri for some late-night exploration.
- Filopappou Hill
- Archaeological Site of Kerameikos
- Ancient Agora
- Central Market
- Psyri
Day 3
Start your final day in Athens at the iconic Panathenaic Stadium, renowned for being the only stadium fully made of marble and the site of the first Modern Olympics. From here, you can visit the Temple of Olympian Zeus and Hadrian’s Arch to explore the interaction of Greek and Roman traditions in Hellenic Greece. Feast at a local Greek taverna, and spend your evening at the National Archeological Museum. Call it a day with fabulous sunset and dinner atop the Lycabettus Hill.
- Panathenaic Stadium
- Temple of Olympian Zeus
- Hadrian’s Arch
- Greek Tavernas
- National Archaeological Museum
- Lycabettus Hill
Detailed 3-day Istanbul itinerary
Day 1
Explore the Acropolis of Athens
Populated by a series of monuments built in the 5th century BC, the Acropolis of Athens reflects the wealth and power of Athens in what is widely considered to be the golden age of the city’s cultural heritage and of Athenian statesman Pericles. The Acropolis is a celebration of classical Greek architecture, Athenian reverence, religious festivals, and celebrated myths.
Things to do: Visit the main attractions of the Acropolis, including the Theatre of Dionysus, the Odeon of Herodes Atticus, the iconic Parthenon, the Temple of Athena Nike, and Erechtheion.
Useful information:
- Location: Acropolis of Athens
- Cost:
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- Regular rate: €20.00.
- Reduced rate: €10.00.
- Free entry for children aged 0-5.
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- Timings: Daily, 8:00 am-8:00 pm.
- Website: http://odysseus.culture.gr
- How to reach: Bus: Akropolē (line 240)
Climb the Areopagus
Areopagus, translated from Greek as the hill of Ares, is a scenic hill with mythological and historical significance, and picturesque views of the Acropolis. According to legend, the trial of Area, the Greek god of war, for the murder of Poseidon’s son took place on this very hill.
Unravelog tip: Since the slopes of the hill are notoriously slippery, make sure to wear practical shoes while climbing.
Useful information:
- Location: Theorias 21
- Cost: Free entry.
- Timings: Always open.
- How to reach: Bus: Akropolē (line 240)
Visit the Acropolis Museum
Opened to the public in 2009, the Acropolis Museum houses the Greek, Roman, and Byzantine remains of the Acropolis of Athens. Browse ancient statues of Greek and Roman gods, reliefs, and so much more in what is considered to be one of the best museum experiences in the world.
Useful information:
- Location: Dionysiou Areopagitou 15
- Cost:
- Summer (1st November–31st March)
- Regular rate: €10.00.
- Reduced rate: €5.00.
- Winter (1st April–1st October)
- Regular rate: €5.00.
- Reduced rate: €3.00.
- Check the eligibility for reduced and free admission here
- Summer (1st November–31st March)
- Timings: For detailed information, check out the official website.
- Website: https://www.theacropolismuseum.gr/en/
- How to reach:
- Bus: Makrigianni (line 24, 40, 57, 103, 106, 108, 111, 126, 134, 135, 136, 137, 155, 206, 208, 227, 230, 237, 790, 856, Α2, Α3, Α4, Β2, Β3, Β4, Ε2, Ε22).
- Metro: Acropoli (line M2 or red line).
- Trolley: Makrigianni (line 1, 5, 15).
Stroll around Anafiotika
The 19th-century district of Anafiotika, which seems to descend from the Acropolis, was constructed by and for the masons and carpenters of King Otto’s Royal Palace. The streets of Anafiotika are lined with iconic white cubic houses that were common in the Cyclades, from where the workers hailed.
Useful information:
- Location: Anafiotika
- Cost: Free entry.
- Timings: Always open.
- How to reach:
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- Bus: Makrigianni (line 24, 40, 57, 103, 106, 108, 111, 126, 134, 135, 136, 137, 155, 206, 208, 227, 230, 237, 790, 856, Α2, Α3, Α4, Β2, Β3, Β4, Ε2, Ε22).
- Metro: Acropoli (line M2 or red line).
- Trolley: Makrigianni (line 1, 5, 15).
Explore the nightlife of Athens in Monastiraki Square
Monastiraki Square, the main shopping street of Athens, prides itself on being one of the best places to spend the night in the city. In addition to being lined with boutiques, souvenir shops, and other worthwhile shops, the square is also home to an amazing flea market where you can explore, bargain on and purchase the most unique finds. As the night approaches, find yourself a comfortable rooftop taverna or bar (the Zillers, Monk Grapes and Spirits, and A for Athens come highly recommended) and dine and drink as the pillars of the Parthenon stare back at you in the distance.
Useful information:
- Location: Agias Eleousis 3
- Cost: Free entry.
- Timings: Always open.
- How to reach:
- Bus: Monastēraki (line 25, 26, 27, 35, 227, 500).
- Metro: Monastiraki Station (line M1 or green line, M3 or blue line).
Day 2
Catch the sunrise at Filopappou Hill
Filopappou Hill, or the hill of the muses, is perfect for a morning stroll as it is for an incredible view of the Acropolis. Visit the Filopappou monument and other attractions on the hill after witnessing the indescribable beauty of the Athenian sunrise.
Things to do: Explore Filopappou Hill’s attractions, which include the famous Filopappou monument, Socrates’ Prison, Shrine of the Muses, and Church of Agios Dimitrios Loumbardiaris.
Useful information:
- Location: Colina Filopapo
- Cost: Free entry.
- Timings: Always open.
- How to reach: Bus: Akropolē (line 240).
Explore the Archaeological Site of Kerameikos
Kerameikos, once a popular settlement of potters, was used for burials from as early as the Greek Bronze age (2700–2000 BC). The Museum of Kerameikos houses valuable artifacts recovered from the archaeological site of Kerameikos and can be visited by tourists while visiting the site.
Useful information:
- Location: Ermou 148
- Cost:
- Regular rate: €8.00.
- Reduced rate: €4.00.
- Free entry for children aged 0-5.
- Timings: Daily, 8:00 am–8:00 pm.
- Website: http://odysseus.culture.gr/h/3/eh351.jsp?obj_id=2392
- How to reach: Metro: Kerameikos (line M3 or blue line).
Browse the Ancient Agora
The heart of ancient Athens, the Agora, was the centre of all things commercial and cultural. Having played a huge role in Ancient Greek politics, philosophy, and religion, remains of the Agora have been preserved for visitors to catch a glimpse of it in the 21st century.
Things to do:
- Visit the major attractions of the Ancient Agora, which include the Temple of Hephaestus, Tholos, the Church of Holy Apostles, and the Bouleuterion
- Explore the history of the Greek Agora at the Museum of the Ancient Agora, located in the reconstructed Stoa of Attalos.
Useful information:
- Location: Adrianou 24
- Cost:
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- Regular rate: €10.00.
- Reduced rate: €5.00.
- Free entry for children aged 0-5.
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- Timings: Daily, 8:00 am–8:00 pm.
- How to reach:
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- Metro: Thēseio (line M1 or Green line).
Visit the stalls at the Central Market
Functioning since 1886, the Central Municipal Market of Athens offers shoppers a variety of local and authentic Greek produce, including meat, fish, pastourma, spices, nuts, teas, and cheeses. Try amazing food and be on the lookout for Greek products that you won’t necessarily be familiar with but will be a great addition to your store cupboard staples back home.
Useful information:
- Location: Central Municipal Athens Market
- Cost: Free entry.
- Timings: Always open.
- How to reach:
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- Bus: Town Hall (line 35, 227, 500).
- Metro: Omonia station (line M1 or Green line, M2 or Red line).
Roam around Psyri
Centred around Iroon square, the colourful neighbourhood of Psyri is accentuated by its vintage shops, galleries, and bars with live music. Roam around the trendy neighbourhood, exploring the unique street art and trying traditional Greek food at Avlí or Zampano.
Useful information:
- Location: Psyri
- Cost: Free entry.
- Timings: Always open.
- How to reach:
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- Bus: Monastēraki (line 25, 26, 27, 35, 227, 500).
- Metro: Monastiraki Station (line M1 or green line, M3 or blue line).
Day 3
Visit the Panathenaic Stadium
Hosting athletic championships for over two millennia, the Panathenaic Stadium is the only stadium completely built with marble in the entire world. Visit the site of the first modern Olympics in 1896 and learn about the extensive history of the Ancient Olympics.
Things to do: Be part of a group tour and participate in sports like a road race, throwing a race, or long jump to experience the dynamics and energy of sports on this ancient stage. Upon completing the events, you will be awarded medals or diplomas and photographed as winners on the podium against the backdrop of this magnificent stadium.
Useful information:
- Location: Athina 116
- Cost:
- Regular rate: €5.00
- Reduced rate: €2.50
- Free entrance for students from local Greek schools, people with disabilities and their attendants, and children up to 6 years old
- Timings:
- March to October: 8:00 am–7:00 pm
- November to February: 8:00 am–5:00 pm
- Website: http://www.panathenaicstadium.gr/
- How to reach:
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- Buses: Bus (line 209, 550) Trolleys (2, 4, 10, 11, ‘Studio’ stop), Tram (T4 and T5 ‘Mets’ stop)
- Metro: Syntagma station (800 m away)
Explore the Temple of Olympian Zeus
Although the earliest trace of a temple in the site dates back to the 6th century BCE, the Temple of Olympian Zeus was finished in 131 CE under the rule of Roman Emperor Hadrian as one of the largest temples in the ancient world. Although only 15 of the original 104 Corinthian columns stood the test of time, visitors can easily imagine the magnificence of the temple in its full glory.
Things to do:
Located near the edges and the main platform of the temple, you can visit the following:
- The Doric Temple of Apollo Delphinios
- The Delphinion Court, a spacious courtyard, and the outline of rooms dating 500 BC. This court was where Athenians carried out homicides they considered “fair”.
- The gates of the Themistoclean Wall, named after an Athenian statesman and built to defend against warring Persians in the 5th century BC.
- Hadrian’s Arch, a monumental double arch nearly 60 feet tall, is dedicated to both Hadrian and Theseus, the mythical hero and founder of Athens.
Unravel tip: Wear a hat and bring a bottle of water as the only shade is around the edges of the site, which is away from the ruins themselves.
Useful information:
- Location: Syntagma
- Cost:
- Adult: €6
- Student: €3
- Children: Free
- Timings:
- October-April: 8 am–3 pm
- May-September: 8:00 am–8:00 pm
- Website: http://odysseus.culture.gr/
- How to reach:
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- Metro: Akropolis station (line 2).
Gaze upon Hadrian’s Arch
Hadrian’s Arch was built in 131 CE to commemorate the arrival of Roman Emperor Hadrian in Athens, who also finished the construction of the adjacent Temple of Olympian Zeus. In opposite directions, the arch names both the Greek (Theseus) and Roman founders of the Greek capital.
Useful information:
- Location: Leoforos Vasilissis
- Cost: Free
- Timings: Always open
- How to reach:
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- Metro: Akropolis station (line 2)
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- Buses (line 40, 230, A2, B2, and 209)
- Trams (line 1, 5, and 15)
Feast at a Greek Taverna
The traditional tavernas of Athens are a quintessential Greek experience, which is why you absolutely cannot skip it. Spend your afternoon in a rooftop taverna, trying iconic Greek dishes.
Tis Theatrou to Steki, To Paradosiako, Díporto, To Steki tou Ilia are great places to try authentic Greek food apart from being a haven for meat-lovers. Here’s our pick of the best places to try Greek street food while in Athens.
National Archaeological Museum
Devoted to the preservation and display of Ancient Greek art, the National Archaeological Museum of Athens showcases Greek antiquities with extensive research associated with them. Visit the largest archaeological museum in Greece to dive deep into Greek history, art, and culture.
Useful information:
- Location: Oktovriou
- Cost:
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- €6 (November 1st–March 31st)
- €12 (April 1st–October 31st)
- Timings:
- November 1st – April:
- Tuesday: 1:00 pm–8:00 pm
- Wednesday-Monday: 08:00 am –5:00 pm
- April – October 31st:
- Tuesday: 1:00 pm–8:00 pm
- Wednesday-Monday: 08:00 am–8:00m pm
- November 1st – April:
- Website: https://www.namuseum.gr/
- How to reach:
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- Metro & Electric train: Omonia or Victoria station
- Bus: Β5, Α6, Β6, Ε6, Α7, Β7, Ε7, Α8, Β8, Α12, Β12, Γ12, Ε12, 022, 035, 046, 060, 200, 224, 605, 608, 622
- Trolley: 2, 3, 4, 5, 6, 7, 8, 9, 11, 13, 14
Catch the sunset at Lycabettus Hill
Lycabettus Hill, the highest point of Athens, is climbed by numerous tourists every day to catch a glorious sunset view of Athens. Visit the church of Agios Georgios and the Lycabettus theatre, all while preparing for a stunning dinner atop the hill at Orizontes.
Things to do:
- Visit the Greek Orthodox Church (Saint George) on the peak of the hill
- On the western slope, there is a cave where you can visit the quaint church of St. Isidore
- Visit the Lycabettus Theatre, a spacious open-air theatre of 3000 seats
- Enjoy some food in the restaurant and cafe while enjoying the magnificent view of Athens
Unravelog: If you’re less than enthusiastic about climbing the Lycabettus Hill, ride the Lycabettus Hill Cable Car instead!
Useful information:
- Location: Likavittou
- Timings: 9:00 am–2:30 am
- Website: https://www.lycabettushill.com/
- How to reach:
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- Cable Car: The starting point is at the end of Plutarch Street (for more information)
- Metro: Evangelismos station (Line 3) or walk 20 mins to reach the Hill
- Bus: Likavitou (Line 060); check the routes and timetable at OASA Telematics
Rich in tradition, aroma, and taste, Greek street food is a must-try when in Athens. Take your taste buds for a ride with our curated list of places offering the best street food in the ancient capital. Looking for more off-beat experiences to try while in Athens? Worry not, here are 7 of the best-kept secrets to help you go local.
