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Athens Itinerary | How to Spend Your Days in Athens

Melina Thalassinou
Table of Content
Table of Content
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Key Takeaways

  • A well-thought-out Athens itinerary reveals the city's history, culture, and modern energy, and offers a dynamic experience for visitors.
  • In just 48 hours, Athens captivates with its rich heritage, bustling markets, and vibrant neighborhoods.
  • The city effortlessly intertwines its ancient marvels with modern urban life, creating a unique and captivating atmosphere.
  • Indulge in guided tours, savor local flavors, and explore the myriad facets of Athens, from its iconic landmarks to its lively nightlife. 

Acropolis aerial viewAcropolis aerial view - credits: Aerial-motion/Shutterstock.com

The only bad thing about visiting Athens is that time will fly, but the good thing is that you are the pilot of the flight!

You could spend a lifetime, and it wouldn’t be enough to discover all that Athens has to offer; however, that’s no reason to despair.

If you’ve only a few days in our charming city, apart from the ivory-colored wonder that is the Acropolis, there are a lot of places to visit.

There are also a lot of things to experience that will make your trip unforgettable in just a short amount of time.

From colorful markets to quirky neighborhoods, outstanding eateries, and an eclectic nightlife scene, Athens is, as she ever was, a city of warmth, vibrancy, and indefatigable character.

If you are visiting Athens just for two or three days, we are here to share some useful tips regarding your trip to the Greek capital, give you an insight into the best things to do in Athens, and, of course, ensure you make the most out of your time in the city of the violet crown!

Where to Stay

Monastiraki square - credits: anshar/Depositphotos.com

While planning for your arrival in Athens, the first thing to take care of is choosing where to rest your weary body at night.

When it comes to deciding where to stay in Athens, the area we'd highly suggest you pick is the city center.

The center of Athens offers a wide variety of high-quality hotels for you to choose from, based on your preferences.

Whether you are a fan of luxurious hotels with a stunning view of the Acropolis or a big advocate for small, low-key hotels with a more homey vibe and kid-friendly premises for your family, the city center has got you covered. 

Most of the archaeological sites, main shopping areas, and traditional restaurants come together around the famous hill of the Acropolis, where the heart of Athens beats.

Plaka, Thiseion, and Monastiraki Square are areas strongly recommended by us, being close to one another, which is of great importance, especially if your stay in Athens is going to be short.  

Getting Around Athens

Inside Athens metro station - credits: PNIK/Shutterstock.com

If you fly to Athens, what you will certainly need as soon as you land at Athens' airport is to buy a 3-day tourist ticket for 22€.

This ticket provides you with unlimited travel by all transportation means in Athens (all lines of Metro and train, suburban railway, tram, trolley, and public buses), including a one return trip from/to the airport by metro or by bus, -using the designated airport bus, 'express X'- which will remain valid for three days.

Catch the Athens metro, specifically the Blue Line, and get off either at Syntagma Square or Monastiraki, depending on your accommodation location.

Please bear in mind that you need about 45 minutes to get from the airport to the city center and vice versa.

  • If you choose to come to Athens by boat, you can buy a 24-hour ticket for 4.50€, which includes unlimited city travel by all transportation means (excluding Athens Airport lines). When you leave the boat, hop on the port bus that takes you outside the port area, just opposite the train station. You can take the train and stop at Monastiraki Station. The journey from the port to the city center takes about 40 minutes by train. Alternatively, you can take a cab, but make sure they don't charge you more than 20 euros.

athens temple of zeusTemple of Zeus - credits: Pamela Loreto Perez/Shutterstock.com

Tip: To avoid shady cab drivers, download the Beat taxi app and book your taxi online safely and hassle-free!

Depending on your needs and preferences, you might also consider renting a car in Greece, a wise choice, especially if you have planned getaways out of Athens or have chosen to stay outside the city center.

Before renting a car, you need to consider that heavy traffic is common in Athens. We're not as bad as LA, but it can get old quickly.

For more details and updates about public transport in Athens, please visit the official Athens Transport website or check out our Athens transfers.  

If you like luxurious and private transportation from and to Athens International Airport, by friendly and helpful drivers, then we can arrange for you to be transferred in comfort and style.

2-Day Athens Itinerary

Day One

Koulouri - credits: vovidzha/Shutterstock.com

If you're an early birdie and you're up and at 'em early in the morning, keep in mind that no adventure is ever conducted well on an empty stomach.

Therefore, grab the chance to be introduced to the food Athenians like to start their day with.

Now, you could choose to visit the hotel breakfast buffet or start city exploration and head to one of Athens’ many bakeries, just like a local would.

It would be difficult to recommend one without starting a full-on office fight about which bakery is the best, and in truth, each has its own specialties.

The aromas of freshly baked bread and warm pastries will make your choice close to impossible, but, for starters, why not try the local favorite, traditional koulouri? 

This is the perfect morning fuel for many an Athenian, either plain or with sweet and savory fillings, with wholemeal, multigrain, or white dough.

Another local favorite is spanakopita, a filo pastry made with olive oil stuffed with spinach and sometimes feta. 

Having fed the troops, the Acropolis, iridescent in the morning sunshine, awaits you.

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Hosting the majestic Parthenon -the survival of which is a miracle in itself, given the centuries worth of attempts at its destruction- the ethereal Erechteion with the iconic Caryatid sculptures and the imposing Propylaea, the magnificence of the Acropolis is undeniable.

Like so many of the world’s incredible landmarks, the magnitude and craftsmanship of the Acropolis can be truly understood when you witness it from up close.

No picture, postcard, or painting truly does the Acropolis justice; everyone will experience the archaeological site differently.

Visually, the Acropolis is nothing short of incredible; however, what makes it unique is the history and mythology that runs through every Doric colonnade and marble plinth.

To fully experience the sacred rock and to get the most out of your available time, let one of our expert guides take you on a journey through time to Ancient Greece and back again with a Mythology tour.

After your mythical morning, it's time for you to explore modern-day Athens. Where better to start than the vibrant, bustling hub of Monastiraki?

A short walk from the Acropolis along the sweeping cobbled road of Dionisiou Areopagitou will take you to the popular flea market of Monastiraki.

boy looking at athensBoy enjoying a view of Athens - credits: NadyaEugene/Shutterstock.com

Here, you can wander through stalls and shops that sell just about everything, from second-hand books and antiques to tourist wares, military surplus, and interesting jewelry. 

The square of Monastiraki is often described as being a visual representation of all the eras that Athens has lived through over the years.

Tzisdarakis Mosque, alongside Hadrian’s library, the Monastiraki Metro Station, and the Byzantine church of Pantanassa, make for a striking mix of architecture and culture.

Once the central grain market during the late Ottoman era, Monastiraki has remained a vibrant area.

Notable establishments, such as the 360 Cocktail Bar and A for Athens, provide panoramic views of the city, while around the corner lies the oldest -end best- kebab stores of the city, ‘Savvas’; if you’re feeling peckish, their pastourmali is a must-try.

Greek food market - credits: Nenad_Mihajlovic/Shutterstock.com

From Monastiraki, a 2-minute walk will take you to the Central Market of Athens, an area not to be missed.

Prepare yourself for plenty of banter and noise as you weave your way through Athens' meat, fish, vegetable, fruit, and spice markets!

Many of the vendors here have been in the trade industry for generations, with their offerings being the products of truly dedicated artisans.

For the foodies amongst you, why not combine mythology, history, gastronomy, and culture?

Explore the Acropolis's magnificence and discover modern Athens's culinary wonders on our exciting Acropolis Delights Tour.

couple in athensCouple in Athens - credits: Page Light Studios/Shutterstock.com

Be savvy; don’t waste time with maps and ambiguity; let our erudite, passionate archaeologist-come-foodie guide bring to life the ancient sites of Athens, followed by a culinary showcase of what locals know to be the very best of Athenian food!

For the afternoon, one of the cities’ numerous museums is a must and a welcome respite from the heat if you’re visiting during summer.

The world-renowned National Archaeological Museum is located in Exarcheia, an area particularly popular among Athens' young crowds, in an impressive neoclassical building with striking colors to match.

Displaying some of the most remarkable pieces of art and sculptures from the Mycenaean, Neolithic, Egyptian, and Hellenistic periods, walking through this museum is a feast for the eyes.

For more on this wonderful collection and other noteworthy museums in Athens, check our guide to Athens' most interesting museums. 

National Archaeological Museum - credits: Lefteris Papaulakis/Shutterstock.com

As night falls, ‘a city whose columns rests upon the sunset’ emerges.

The warm glow that fades into a starry evening with streets filled with incandescent lights, the sound of bouzouki players, and the chinking of glasses will prepare you for a romantic evening in Athens.

For the night owls amongst you, welcome home because Athens is a city that is ebullient by night.

Whether you choose to take the tram to the coast and walk the marinas of Athens Riviera, catch a classic film at an outdoor Athenian cinema, or recline with a cold glass of white wine from the vineyards of Santorini on the terrace of a wine bar, the evening is sure to be a memorable one.

couple walking monastirakiCouple in Plaka - credits: Milan Gonda/Shutterstock.com

Areas such as Petralona, Metaxourgeio, and Koukaki are local favorites with a diverse and vibrant array of bars, taverns, and music venues, all offering their unique element to the city's charm.

Athenians often rely on word of mouth for recommendations to find the real treasures. 

Where should I go for the best wines? Who is making the latest innovative cocktails? Have you tried cheeses from the Cycladic region? The Cretan cuisine is famous, but where do you go to find the ‘real deal’?

These are some of the questions that you should be asking, and the answers can be found on our Athens Evening Highlights tour! 

Being one of the most unique Athens toursget ready for the very best haunts in the city, far from any tourist trap; a truly fantastic way to spend your first night in Athens!

Day Two

Take a morning stroll in Anafitika - credits: eFesenko/Shutterstock.com

As the dawn breaks over the magical city of Athens, grab your koulouri and head for a morning stroll through the winding and undeniably photogenic streets of Athens’ oldest neighborhood, Plaka.

With Venetian shutters on the windows, bougainvilleas arching overhead, and brightly-colored houses, you will feel as if there's a possibility for you to come across Woody Allen and a film crew at any moment.

It is cinematic by day and so romantic by night that even the more demanding of visitors will eventually succumb to its charm.

Although busy during the day, as it is mostly a pedestrian area, it is particularly peaceful to visit really early in the morning.

What makes this neighborhood so fascinating is its diversity.

Ermou street AthensErmou Street. Athens - credits: Nataliia Sokolovska/Shutterstock.com

Byzantine churches, Ottoman buildings, the remnants of antiquity, and walls of modern-day street art and neoclassical touches make Plaka a beautiful melting pot of architectural style.

If you climb higher towards the Acropolis, it's worth stopping for coffee on one of the streets overlooking downtown Athens.

Precariously perched on the corner of Thrasivoulou Street is Klepsidra café, a perfect spot to pull up a brightly-colored chair, enjoy an iced coffee, and watch the sprawling city of Athens under the cool shade of the Acropolis.

If you can bear to leave (you could easily spend a whole afternoon reading books from the adjacent bookstall and keep ordering from the drinks menu), make your way towards the little-known ‘island’ on the slopes of the Acropolis, Anafiotika.

Built by homesick masons and carpenters from the Cycladic island of Anafi, brought to the city by King Otto to carry out restoration on the palace, the neighborhood has a very magical feel to it.

It also boasts an impeccable aesthetic with whitewashed walls and cerulean doors decorating its streets. 

Ruins of Temple of Poseidon - credits: sborisov/Depositphotos.com

When you’re standing in the center of Syntagma Square, taking in the sights and sounds of the metropolis, it’s easy to believe that, given the short length of time and perceived distance of concrete before you, the countryside is out of reach.

This, however, is not true, and if there’s one landmark worth escaping the city for, it is the majestic Temple of Poseidon and its reverential gaze across the Aegean. 

Around an hour and a half-hour drive away by the coast, the temple is located at Cape Sounio, offering truly humbling views across Attica and the Saronic Gulf.

A favorite of Lord Byron, who etched his name on a column and the final resting place of the mythical King Aegeus, who ended his life in the mistaken despair that his son, Theseus, had died fighting the Minotaur, the temple is a particularly beautiful sight during sunset.

Just across from the temple is the perfectly positioned Naos Café, where you can watch the fading light of a summer's day with a sundowner.

Foodies, we haven’t forgotten you; in the area, there is an excellent seafood taverna, Syrtaki, which is always full of locals and serves delicious fresh seafood and fish.

Sounio & Temple of Poseidon Sunset Excursion with Swimming Stop
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Everyone at Greeking.me loves to travel, and it’s true that discovering new places can be an exciting yet troublesome task.

Therefore, along with our knowledgeable guide and your very own driver, forget the apps, guide books, and outdated maps that were donated by family members who visited Greece in the 70s and join us for your final evening in Athens on an unforgettable tour of Cape Sounio and the Temple of Poseidon.

As the sun sets on Sounio, enjoy a glass of ouzo in good company and resolve to return to Athens for longer!

3-Day Athens Itinerary

Day One

Anafiotika steps KOSTAS TSEK shutterstock copy copyAnafiotika neighborhood in Plaka, Athens - credits: KOSTAS TSEK/Shutterstock.com

Morning: Explore the Acropolis and the Acropolis Museum

The early bird catches the worm! Get off your bedsheets early, have a luscious Greek breakfast, and go to the Acropolis.

You can even combine the two with our Acropolis Delights tour, which includes a Greek breakfast and an Acropolis and Acropolis museum tour.

The site opens at 8.00 a.m., but when the clock strikes 10.30, it gets really busy, and you might not be able to enjoy your tour of the cradle of ancient Greek civilization.

Get a 5-day pass for 30€ (or 15€ if you are eligible for a reduced ticket) and visit several archaeological sites, including the Acropolis and the ancient Agora.

Family walking towards AcropolisFamily working toward the Acropolis Hill - credits: Page Light Studios/Shutterstock.com

Visiting the Acropolis and the Acropolis Museum is an undeniable must, so figuring out a smart way and time to visit them will enhance your experience in Athens more than you think!

Tip! Don't forget that Athens is the perfect destination for families!

To keep your little ones entertained, you can opt for a mythology tour of the Acropolis and Acropolis museum, with the story-telling of your expert guide keeping you on your feet! Also, check our ultimate guide for visiting Athens with kids to be fully prepared!

Afternoon: Meet the locals in Koukaki

A view from the streets of AthensThe streets of Athens - credits: Yasemin Olgunoz Berber/Shutterstock.com

Following your historical and cultural enrichment, it is time for you to visit one of the hippest neighborhoods in Athens and the 6th most interesting neighborhood in the world to stay, according to Airbnb, Koukaki.

There, you can get a glimpse into the everyday life of Athenians, exploring the region where locals choose to spend their free time eating, drinking, and chatting the problems away.

A walk through Koukaki will swiftly reveal its allure; its two pedestrianized squares are filled with cozy coffee shops, trendy bars, and local taverns, bringing the neighborhood to life and giving it a vibrant, lively vibe.

If all the walking has made you work up an appetite and you're up for tasting local delicacies, you can try 'Syggrouomeno,' a hangout spot operated by a group of friends, with products from small producers from all over Greece: famous Greek spirits such as tsipouro, sweets, and sausages from Pelion, organic wines from Volos and mount Korinthia, cheeses from Lesvos and raki from Crete.

Evening: Catch the sunset in Anafiotika

Psirri neighborhood by night - credits: Milan Gonda/Shutterstock.com

After you’ve got some much-deserved rest, you’ll be ready to tackle the exploration of Athens like a pro, or -even better- like a local!

Reveal the most beautiful part of Athens’ city center with a stroll through Plaka, the village-like neighborhood located under the shadow of the Acropolis hill.

By walking along the oldest commercial street in Athens, Adrianou Str., you’ll have the opportunity to discover unique souvenirs, natural cosmetics, and quaint baubles in the picturesque streets of Athens.

In Plaka, you can also admire the Choragic Monument of Lysicrates, a monument erected by Lysicrates, a wealthy patron of musical performances in the ancient Theatre of Dionysus, to commemorate the award of the first prize in 335/334 BCE to one of the performances he had sponsored.

As the day goes to the night, make your way to Anafiotika to catch the magical Athenian sunset.

The scenic, picture-perfect neighborhood was first built in the era of Otto of Greece by construction workers from the island of Anafi, which explains both Anafiotika’s name and its distinct aesthetic of the Greek islands.

Night: Let Plaka Enchant you

aeroapgitouAeropagitou Street - credits: Andronos Haris/Shutterstock.com

There's no better way to familiarize yourself with the city than with a long walk through its narrow streets, revealing its nooks and crevices.

Since Anafiotika is arguably one of the best parts of Athens, we suggest you also explore the neighboring area by night, watching it awaken under the sparkling lights.

Wind down your exciting and stimulating day in Athens with food and drinks at a famous local bistro, ‘Yiasemi.’

'Yiasemi' became the talk of the town in 2012 when it was featured in a well-known Greek movie.

Since then, it has been loved by the locals, who enjoy coffee, drinks, homemade pies, and desserts in the snug traditional bar that sports a fireplace, as well as outside seats for the summer months.

Tip! Join our Athens highlight tour with meze dinner and discover Athens's beauty -and culinary excellence- after dusk!

Day Two

Morning: Meet the ancients in the National Archaeological Museum 

National Archaeological Museum - credits: Lefteris Papaulakis/Shutterstock.com

Your second day in Athens will start with a visit to the National Archaeological Museum, the largest archaeological museum in Greece, one of the best Athens museums, and one of the most important museums in the world devoted to ancient Greek art.

The National Archaeological Museum hosts some of the most valuable artifacts of ancient Greece from across the country, dating back to prehistoric times up until late antiquity.

From there, you can walk to Omonoia, a focal point for commercial and social life in Athens, despite the urban decay it has suffered in recent years.

Walking along Athinas Str., you will be led to the Central Market of Athens, the place where you can find the freshest -and cheapest- meat, fish, seafood, vegetables, and fruits in the city.

greek Tourists in front of the Greek Parliament - credits: Alexandros Michailidis/Shutterstock.com

A stroll around the market is definitely worth your time; however, beware of the slippery floor, and make sure you don’t wear open-toe shoes.

While exploring the market, you’ll come across another hidden treasure of Athens, ‘Epirus’ tavern.

Hidden away from the curious eyes of tourists and sandwiched between various butcher shops, ‘Epirus’ serves exquisite traditional dishes that represent Greek gastronomy in the best way possible.

The tavern has a selection of different dishes every day -always including a couple of vegetarian options depending on the best ingredients that can be found in the market.

If you want to taste authentic Greek flavors, lunch in ‘Epirus’ tavern is obligatory!

Tip! Are you a foodie discovering the Greek cuisine in Athens? Join us for our Athens food tour and give your taste buds a treat!

Afternoon: Feel the history in Monastiraki

Monastiraki square at night igabriela shutterstockMonastiraki Square - credits: igabriela/Shutterstock.com

Being already close to the area, spending your afternoon exploring the emblematic Monastiraki Square and the monuments nearby is the most time-efficient choice you can make.

Located right at the heart of Athens’ city center, Monastiraki is a unique fuse of different time periods and cultures.

From the center of the square, you can witness the Athenian past unfold around you. Across the Monastiraki metro station, the Tzistarakis mosque stands tall as a remnant of Athens’ Ottoman rule.

Following the establishment of the modern Greek State, the Mosque was converted into an armory, a prison, and a storage room. Today, the Mosque houses part of the Greek Museum of Folk Arts.

Right next to the mosque of Tzistarakis, you can find the Library of Hadrian, built in 132 CE under the command of Roman Emperor Hadrian, becoming one of the most richly decorated buildings of ancient Athens and the largest library of Athens.

A little further down the road from Monastiraki Square stands the Roman Agora.

Consisting of a spacious courtyard surrounded by columns on each of its sides, the Roman Agora used to be the city's marketplace during Roman times.

Visitors can find the Tower of the Winds, a tall, octagonal building designed by the famous ancient Greek astronomer Andronicus of Cyrrhus to function as a water clock, a sundial, and a weather vane.

By strolling through Monastiraki, you will find the essence of Greek history packed in just a few square meters!

Evening: Play in Psirri

lycabettus hil overviewLycabettus Hill - credits: milangonda/Depositphotos.com

No Athens guide would be complete without including the intriguing and alternative neighborhood of Psirri.

After resting for a couple of hours, letting all the knowledge and experiences you have gathered sink in, we couldn’t think of a better way to spend your evening in Athens than roaming through the Athenian neighborhood Psirri while taking in its rustic beauty and its wide selection of eateries, coffee shops, and bars.

Don’t miss the opportunity to eat in a traditional ‘mezedopolio’ -which translates to ‘taverns that serve meze’- in Psiri, as the neighborhood is known for having some of the best in Athens.

‘Nikitas’ is one of our absolute favorites due to its scrumptious food, friendly staff, and affordable prices. Its specialty dish is the meatballs, but everything they have is mind-blowingly tasty.

If you’d like to eat fish and other seafood, opt for ‘Atlantikos,’ where you can enjoy fish that is fried at the time of your order, fresh fries, and a homemade light sauce, all enclosed in a soft bread roll.

‘Alantikos’ takes fish and chips to a whole different level! Being on vacation presents the perfect excuse to eat naughty food.

Therefore, don’t hesitate to indulge in a dessert in ‘Ta Serbetia tou Psiri,’ one of the most legendary pastry shops in Athens, established in 1997.

There, you can find the best of Greek food: traditional Greek desserts along with modern creations made with fresh, local ingredients and love.

We can’t think of a sweeter way to end your day. Can you?

Night: Indulge in Greek wines

Acropolis museumAcropolis Museum - credits: Maria Chavdarova Mavrona/Shutterstock.com

For your night wanderings, we recommend spoiling yourself with a Greek wine-tasting experience, where you’ll get to taste some of Greece’s best wines in ‘Caravin’, an outstanding wine bar in Thissio.

Enjoy the friendly customer service and drink selected wine from a non-exhaustive wine list that changes every month for your palate only! 

Alternatively, to further enhance your experience in Athens and discover the city's hidden gems, indulge in our Athens night food tour and wine-tasting, which will give you the opportunity to eat and drink like a local in places you'd never find yourself!

Day Three

Syntagma square - credits: lornet/Shutterstock.com

Morning: See the city highlights

Your last day in Athens can’t be anything short of spectacular, and you can achieve that by seeing all of Athens’ highlights!

Start your day experiencing the spectacular Athenian Trilogy on Panepistimiou Str., consisting of the National Library of Greece, the University of Athens, and the Academy of Athens.

Go to Syntagma Square, the central square of Athens, and watch the changing of the guards that takes place once every hour.

The military unit partaking in the ceremony is referred to as the Evzones -also known as Tsoliades-which is a special unit of the Hellenic Army constituted in 1868, guarding the Monument of the Unknown Soldier in front of the Hellenic Parliament.

Right next to the Greek parliament is one of the seven entrances of the National Garden, the public park of Athens that covers 38 acres in the center of the capital, which remains open from sunrise to sunset.

Enjoy the escape to nature, marvel at the impressive vegetation of the park that includes rare plants from all over the world, and go to Zappeion, the imposing building in the middle of the gardens that houses important cultural events.

From there, walk to the Panathenaic Stadium - or Kalimarmaro-which has hosted Athens’ most significant athletic and cultural events throughout the centuries, such as the first modern Olympic games.

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

After your visit to the Panathenaic Stadium, explore the Temple of Zeus -or what’s left of it, which is ancient ruins- approximately 500 m southeast of the Acropolis and about 700 m south of Syntagma Square.

During the Roman period, the Temple of Olympian Zeus comprised 104 colossal columns and was the largest temple in Greece.

Today, it is still very important Greek ruins, while sixteen of the original gigantic columns continue to stand proudly in modern Athens.

Afternoon

Aeropagus hillAeropagus Hill - credits: Jana Janina/Shutterstock.com

Following your long walk across Athens’ highlights, you can catch your breath and grab some delicious lunch at ‘Ella Greek Cooking.’

The simplicity and purity of ‘Ella’s’ tastes give a glimpse into Greek cuisine, while the shops also carry an array of traditional Greek products, such as different varieties of cheese and sausages from across the country.

In our opinion, ‘Ella’s’ star dishes are the traditional cheese pie, made with homemade crispy phyllo dough, with a rich filling of local cheeses, and the traditional mash of fava, served with smoked pancetta and caramelized onions, while the addition of truffle oil gives it a sophisticated, contemporary twist.

Having been fueled with energy, it is time for you to visit the most commercial streets of Athens and indulge in retail therapy.

Your trip to Athens wouldn't be complete without some essential shopping. Stroll through Ermou Str. and discover local shops hidden between world-famous chain stores.

Don’t miss the opportunity to buy natural Greek cosmetics from ‘Fresh Line,’ an amazing Greek brand inspired by ancient Greece that offers a selection of homemade, organic products for your hair, face, and body.

Evening

Athens rivieraPeople at the Odeon of Herodes Atticus  - credits: michele schwingboth/Shutterstock.com

Head to your hotel and catch some Z’s before you take on your last evening adventure in Athens.

Appreciate the ravishing beauty of Athens under the evening lights with a walk along Dionysiou Areopagitou Str., the longest pedestrianized pathway in Athens that offers a magical view of some of Athens's most focal historical sites.

The regal street was pedestrianized under the instructions of Melina Merkouri, a Greek actress, singer, and politician who served as the Minister of Culture in the 1980s.

While walking on Dionysiou Areopagitou, you will be able to witness the past of Athens blending into the present, with the majestic monuments of the Acropolis and the Parthenon on your right and the luxurious neoclassical buildings of the 19th and the 20th centuries on your left.

Reward yourself for the walk by having dinner at ‘Hoocut,’ where you can taste an “upgraded” version of souvlaki.

‘Hoocut’ is not like any other souvlaki shop in the city. The restaurant is large, consisting of four different "shops,” a bakery, a grocery store, and a chophouse.

In ‘Hoocut,’ you can have souvlaki with four different kinds of meat: chicken, pork, beef, and ewe, all cooked at the time of your order and then chopped into very small pieces.

The pitas are kneaded and baked on the spot while a series of dips are served to accompany them.

Night

Athens rivieraAthens Riviera - credits: Aerial-motion/Shutterstock.com

Since this is your ultimate night in Athens and your three-day trip was packed with things to do, see, and experience, you can now relax and absorb the barrage of information you have accumulated throughout your stay in Greece.

Opt for a rooftop bar to wind down with a tasty drink and a magnificent view of the city and the Acropolis hill.

Thankfully, there is a wide selection of rooftop bars to choose from, with 'Couleur Locale,' 'A for Athens, and '360 Cocktail Bar' being our top picks.

Alternatively, you can enjoy fresh, homemade dishes, Cretan raki, and live accordion music in a place that integrates old and new, 'Cafe Avvisinia' in the center of Avissinia Square, within the flea market of Monastiraki.

With its old-time aesthetic apparent through the antique furnishing and vintage decoration, ‘Cafe Avissinia’ creates a cozy atmosphere that makes it beloved to visitors and locals.

Tip! don’t forget to make reservations about whichever nightspot you choose.

Central Athens gets particularly busy at night, and the best spots get quickly occupied; you don’t want the last memory of your trip to Athens to be waiting in line!

Extra Tips for Your Athens Itinerary

packing suitcase sebra shutterstock copyGirl packing a suitcase - credits: sebra/Shutterstock.com

  • Pack wisely! Check the weather forecast before you visit Athens. Depending on the time of the year, you might need a jacket, umbrella, or just the lightest of your clothes.
  • A pair of comfy shoes will be your best friend, as you are probably going to walk around a lot, to explore the beauties of Athens.
  • If you visit Athens during summer, invest in a good sunscreen and a hat. In addition, avoid staying under direct sunlight for too long, especially if you are not used to sun exposure.
  • Remember that Athens offers a non-exhaustive list of fashion choices for every taste and budget. Hence, while shopping in Athens, you can find high-quality clothes and shoes at very good prices. If you enjoy high fashion and couture, don’t miss the opportunity to check out some of the most talented Greek fashion designers. We suggest bringing an empty suitcase with you so you can go back home full of Greek goodies, from Greek souvenirs to Greek food and organic products!
  • When you organize your itinerary for your visit to Athens, ensure you have enough free time for any possible variations or spontaneous wanderings around the city.
  • Don’t forget to visit the wonderful beaches near Athens, where you can spend a whole day swimming, sunbathing and enjoying the stunning Athenian weather!

Final Thoughts 

Athens street overlookin hadrian arch Viacheslav Lopatin shutterstockAthens Street overlooking Hadrian's Arch - credits: Viacheslav Lopatin/Shutterstock

Athens: where the Western civilization set its roots and evolution; the city that actively shaped the world and beamed as a beacon for all humankind.

Just a few days is not enough to explore the city of the goddess Athena Nike, but it is enough time to relish a moment in this historical and vibrating place.

From ancient Greece and Byzantine times to Ottoman rule and modern history, the city exhibits invaluable archaeological remnants of the ancient world, picturesque pathways, neoclassical buildings, and traditional mouth-watering flavors.

All enhanced by the perks of the mild -and mostly sunny- Greek weather that will make your 3 or 2 days in Athens itinerary unforgettable!

Enjoy your time in the Greek capital city, explore Athens, and remember that our expert team of locals is here to offer unique, tailor-made Greek experiences just for you!

Our Tailor-Made Trip Planning
01
Hop on a quick call with a local expert from our team
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Receive a tailor-made itinerary for your journey
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Fine-tune the details and you're ready to go

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