Athens, the historic capital of Greece, stands as a living testament to the cradle of Western civilization. Steeped in a legacy that spans millennia, the city seamlessly intertwines ancient marvels with a vibrant modern spirit. The iconic Acropolis, crowned by the Parthenon, presides over the cityscape, embodying the pinnacle of classical architecture.
Wandering through the historic Plaka district, narrow cobblestone streets unveil charming tavernas, offering a taste of traditional Greek cuisine. Athens is a city of contrasts, where the ancient Agora coexists with contemporary art galleries and lively street markets. This metropolis, pulsating with life, showcases its resilience, embracing the past while continually evolving into a dynamic hub of culture, history, and innovation.
Whether exploring archaeological wonders or enjoying the lively atmosphere of its neighborhoods, Athens invites visitors to immerse themselves in a city where antiquity and modernity harmoniously converge. Our suggested itineraries for 3 and 5 days in Athens will help you to make the most of your visit in this amazing metropolis!
3-DAY ITINERARY ATHENS
Day 1: Historical Athens
Acropolis archaeological site and Acropolis Museum
1. Start your day early to avoid crowds and in case of a summer visit the heat. The earlier the better, preferably at 08:00. Visit the Acropolis and explore the Parthenon, Erechtheion, and Temple of Athena Nike. Take in the panoramic views of Athens from the Acropolis, don’t forget to check out the Theatre of Herodotus Atticus. (Duration about 2 hours)
2. Head to the Acropolis Museum. Explore the exhibits showcasing artifacts from the Acropolis, including the impressive Caryatids. (Duration about 2 hours)
Lunch in Plaka
3. Wander down to Plaka for lunch. Choose a traditional Greek taverna and enjoy moussaka, souvlaki, or a Greek salad.
Roman Agora & Monastiraki Flea Market
4. Explore the Roman Agora and Tower of the Winds. Wander through the charming streets of Monastiraki, known for its flea market. (Duration about 2 – 2.5 hours)
5. Visit Hadrian’s Library and the Ancient Agora. Take your time exploring the historical sites. (Duration about 2 hours)
Dinner at Psiri neighborhood
6. Head to Psiri for dinner. Enjoy the vibrant nightlife in this area and try local specialties in one of the cozy tavernas.
Day 2: Cultural Athens
National Archaeological Museum
1. Visit the National Archaeological Museum. Explore its vast collection of artifacts, including those from Mycenae and Santorini. (Duration about 3 hours)
Lunch at Exarchia
2. Head to Exarchia, a bohemian neighborhood, for lunch. Try one of the local cafes or bistros.
Lycabettus Hill & Kolonaki
3. Hike or take the funicular to Lycabettus Hill for panoramic views. Explore the upscale neighborhood of Kolonaki for shopping and a coffee break. (Duration about 3 hours)
Dinner in Kifisia or at a Rooftop restaurant in the city center
4. Take the metro to Kifisia, an upscale suburb. Enjoy dinner in one of the stylish restaurants or stay at the city center and enjoy your dinner with the views of the Acropolis.
Day 3: Local Experiences
National Garden & Syntagma square
1. Take a leisurely stroll through the National Garden. Visit the Greek Parliament and the Changing of the Guard ceremony at Syntagma Square. (Duration about 2 hours)
Brunch in Kolonaki
2. Enjoy brunch in one of the trendy cafes in Kolonaki.
Benaki Museum & Kerameikos
3. Visit the Benaki Museum. Explore the Kerameikos archaeological site and museum, providing insights into ancient Athens. (Duration about 3 hours)
Dinner in Gazi
4. Head to Gazi for dinner. Experience the vibrant nightlife in this area, known for its bars and clubs.
5-DAY ITINERARY ATHENS
With five days in Athens, wanderers will have the opportunity to delve deeper into the city’s rich history, explore more neighborhoods, and even take a day trip to nearby destinations:
Day 1: Historical Athens
Acropolis archaeological site and Acropolis Museum
1. Start your day early to avoid crowds and in case of a summer visit the heat. The earlier the better, preferably at 08:00. Visit the Acropolis and explore the Parthenon, Erechtheion, and Temple of Athena Nike. Take in the panoramic views of Athens from the Acropolis, don’t forget to check out the Theatre of Herodotus Atticus. (Duration about 2 hours)
2. Head to the Acropolis Museum. Explore the exhibits showcasing artifacts from the Acropolis, including the impressive Caryatids. (Duration about 2 hours)
Lunch in Plaka
3. Wander down to Plaka for lunch. Choose a traditional Greek taverna and enjoy moussaka, souvlaki, or a Greek salad.
Roman Agora & Monastiraki Flea Market
4. Explore the Roman Agora and Tower of the Winds. Wander through the charming streets of Monastiraki, known for its flea market. (Duration about 2 – 2.5 hours)
5. Visit Hadrian’s Library and the Ancient Agora. Take your time exploring the historical sites. (Duration about 2 hours)
Dinner at Psiri neighborhood
6. Head to Psiri for dinner. Enjoy the vibrant nightlife in this area and try local specialties in one of the cozy tavernas.
Day 2: Cultural Athens
National Archaeological Museum
1. Visit the National Archaeological Museum. Explore its vast collection of artifacts, including those from Mycenae and Santorini. (Duration about 3 hours)
Lunch at Exarchia
2. Head to Exarchia, a bohemian neighborhood, for lunch. Try one of the local cafes or bistros.
Lycabettus Hill, Kolonaki & Benaki Museum
3. Hike or take the funicular to Lycabettus Hill for panoramic views. Explore the upscale neighborhood of Kolonaki for shopping and visit the Benaki Museum. (Duration about 4 hours)
Dinner in Kolonaki
4. Enjoy dinner in Kolonaki’s stylish restaurants.
Day 3: Local Experiences
National Garden & Syntagma square
1. Take a leisurely stroll through the National Garden. Visit the Greek Parliament and the Changing of the Guard ceremony at Syntagma Square. (Duration about 2 hours)
Brunch in Kolonaki or Plaka
2. Enjoy brunch in one of the trendy cafes in Kolonaki or the charming surrounding of Plaka.
Temple of Olympian Zeus, Panathenaic Stadium and Kerameikos
3. Visit the Temple of Olympian Zeus and the Panathenaic Stadium. Explore the Kerameikos archaeological site and museum. (Duration about 3-4 hours)
Dinner in Thissio
4. Dinner in Thissio, offering a mix of traditional and modern cuisine.
Day 4: Day Trip to Delphi
Delphi trip
1. Take a day trip to Delphi, exploring the ancient sanctuary and its museum. Admire the archaeological site and the breathtaking views.
Day 5: Relax and Explore
Athenian Riviera
1. Head to the Athenian Riviera. Relax at a beach, visit Vouliagmeni Lake, or explore the coastal areas.
Lunch in Glyfada or Vouliagmeni
2. Lunch in Glyfada, a stylish suburb with a vibrant atmosphere.
Explore & Sunset at Cape Sounion
3. Explore Glyfada’s shops and cafes or the area of Vouliagmeni. In the late afternoon, head to Cape Sounion for the Temple of Poseidon and enjoy a stunning sunset.
Dinner in Vouliagmeni or Sounion
4. End your trip with dinner in Vouliagmeni or Sounion, at seaside neighborhoods with seafood restaurants.
Immerse yourself in the rich tapestry of Athens with our thoughtfully crafted itineraries, blending historical immersion, cultural discovery, and tantalizing local flavors. These curated plans ensure that whether you have three or five days in Athens, every moment is optimized for a profound and delightful exploration of this ancient city. Your journey through Athens promises to be a harmonious blend of history, culture, and culinary delights, making the most of every precious day in this captivating destination.
*For an opulent experience in Athens, we invite you to explore our agency’s website. Allow us to curate the perfect journey tailored to your unique preferences and desires.
