2 Days in Athens: A Perfect Itinerary for a Short Trip

Athens, a city brimming with historical significance and modern vibrancy, is an excellent destination for a brief escape.

With 2 days in Athens, you can delve into its ancient wonders, explore charming neighborhoods, and enjoy some relaxation.

During our trip to Athens, we discovered that 2-3 days is the perfect amount of time in the city.

We were able to see the major sites and get a taste of local culture before jetting off to Crete and Santorini.

To help you make the most of your time in Athens, we have put together this detailed itinerary. I hope you enjoy!

Pro Tip: Remember that there are new entry requirements Europe in 2025!

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Day 1: Exploring the Ancient Wonders

Morning: The Acropolis and Parthenon

• Hours of Operation: 8:00 AM – 8:00 PM (April to October), 8:00 AM – 5:00 PM (November to March)
• Entrance Fee: €20 (includes access to the Acropolis and other archaeological sites)
• Official Acropolis Website

If you’re like us (and most other people), one of the top attractions on your must-see list in Athens includes the Acropolis and Parthenon, so let’s dive into those first!

Start your exploration of Athens at the Acropolis, the most iconic historical site in the city.

We chose to arrive early as to miss the mid-day heat, and some of the crowds, and, boy, were we glad we did!

Walking up the hill and seeing the majestic Parthenon, a symbol of ancient Greece and a marvel of classical architecture, definitely made an impression on us.

Originally constructed in the 5th century BC, the Parthenon was dedicated to Athena, the city’s patron goddess, and is a still a modern marvel to take in.

Take time to explore the ancient sites located at the Acropolis, including the Erechtheion, a temple noted for its Caryatids, and the Temple of Athena Nike, a small yet elegant temple also on the Acropolis.

Pro Tips:

• Tickets: Purchase a combined ticket for the Acropolis and other archaeological sites to save time and money.
• Guides: Consider hiring a guide or using an audio guide to enrich your understanding of the site’s history and significance.
• Wear comfortable shoes.
• If you are traveling in the winter months, grab a cozy fleece or jacket as it gets really windy and chilly in this area.

Midday: Plaka and Monastiraki

After immersing yourself in ancient history, head to Plaka, the old neighborhood that lies at the foot of the Acropolis.

The area is renowned for its narrow, winding streets lined with neoclassical houses, quaint shops, and charming cafes, perfect for grabbing a bite to eat and enjoying some Greek culture.

During your time exploring the offer, check out the following:

• Lunch Spots: Try a traditional Greek taverna like Taverna Saita or Yiasemi for authentic dishes such as tzatziki, spanakopita, and grilled octopus.
• Monastiraki Square: Known for its vibrant flea market and the historic Tzistarakis Mosque.

Pro Tips:

• Cash: Small cafes and shops might only accept cash, so keep some on hand.
• Street Performers: Enjoy street performances and musicians that often liven up the area.

Afternoon: The Ancient Agora and Roman Agora

• Hours of Operation: 8:00 AM – 8:00 PM (April to October), 8:00 AM – 5:00 PM (November to March)
• Entrance Fee: Included in the Acropolis combined ticket

In the afternoon, explore the Ancient Agora, the heart of public life in ancient Athens. This area was the center of political, commercial, and social activity.

Highlights include:

• Temple of Hephaestus: One of the best-preserved ancient temples, dedicated to the god of craftsmanship and fire.
• Stoa of Attalos: A reconstructed colonnade that now houses the Agora Museum.

Nearby, the Roman Agora offers additional historical insights that are worth checking out also.

Evening: Dinner and Sunset Views

As the sun begins to set, make your way to Lycabettus Hill for breathtaking views over Athens. You can reach the summit by taking the funicular railway, which provides a scenic ride up the hill.

• Funicular Hours: 9:00 AM – 12:00 AM (April to October), 9:00 AM – 8:00 PM (November to March)
• Funicular Fee: €7 (round trip)
• Website: Lycabettus Funicular

For dinner, head to the Psiri district. This area is famous for its vibrant nightlife and diverse restaurant options. Try Kostas or Kavouras for delicious Greek meals and lively ambiance.

For a special treat, consider dining at a rooftop restaurant with views of the illuminated Acropolis, such as 360 Cocktail Bar or Strofi.

Enjoying cocktails and snacks at a rooftop restaurant while watching the sunset over the Acropolis was truly a highlight of our time in Athens!

Pro Tips:

• Reservations: Make a reservation at restaurants and rooftops in advance to ensure you get a table with a view.
• Comfort: Dress in layers as the evening can get cool, even after a warm day.

Day 2: Cultural Immersion and Relaxation

Morning: National Archaeological Museum

• Hours of Operation: 8:00 AM – 8:00 PM (April to October), 8:00 AM – 3:00 PM (November to March)
• Entrance Fee: €12 (standard), €6 (reduced)
• Website: National Archaeological Museum

Start your second day with a visit to the National Archaeological Museum, one of the most important museums in Greece.

Its vast collection spans from prehistoric to late antiquity and includes:

• The Mask of Agamemnon: An iconic gold mask from the Mycenaean era.
• The Antikythera Mechanism: An ancient Greek analog computer used to predict astronomical positions and eclipses.

Pro Tips:

• Audio Guides: Rent an audio guide to enhance your understanding of the exhibits.
• Museum Hours: Check the opening hours and plan your visit to avoid long lines.

Midday: Syntagma Square and the Changing of the Guard

• Changing of the Guard Hours: Every hour, with the full ceremony at 11:00 AM
• Location: Hellenic Parliament, Syntagma Square

Next, head to Syntagma Square, the political center of Athens.

The Changing of the Guard ceremony at the Hellenic Parliament takes place every hour on the hour, but the full ceremony with the traditional uniformed guards occurs at 11 AM.

We happened to make it to the ceremony during the full ceremony (just by coincidence) and really enjoyed it. If possible, try to time your visit around the 11 a.m. changing of the guards!

Watching the guards in their traditional dress perform the choreographed ceremony is a unique cultural experience not to be missed.

Pro Tips:

• Timing: Arrive a bit early to secure a good viewing spot.
• Etiquette: Respect the guards and avoid touching them or stepping in their way.

Afternoon: Relax in the National Garden

• Hours of Operation: 7:00 AM – 8:00 PM (Summer), 7:00 AM – 5:00 PM (Winter)
• Entrance Fee: Free
• Location: Adjacent to Syntagma Square

After the formalities of the morning, take a leisurely stroll through the National Garden of Athens, a serene escape from the city’s bustle.

The garden offers several walking paths that include fountains and lush greenery and a small zoo that you can visit as well.

Pro Tips:

• Picnic: Pack a light picnic to enjoy in the garden.
• Relaxation: Use this time to unwind and reflect on your trip.

Evening: Explore Kolonaki and Enjoy a Farewell Dinner

For your final evening, explore the upscale Kolonaki district, known for its chic boutiques, art galleries, and elegant cafes.

This area is an excellent place for a last-minute shopping spree or to simply soak in the sophisticated atmosphere.

• Dining: For your farewell dinner, consider dining at a high-end restaurant like Café Avissinia or Athinaikon. These establishments offer gourmet Greek cuisine and often have views of the Acropolis or the city skyline.

Tips:

• Reservations: Make a reservation in advance for a memorable dining experience.
• Dress Code: Smart casual attire is recommended for upscale restaurants.

Frequently Asked Questions

What is the best time to visit Athens?

• Spring (April to June) and Autumn (September to October) are ideal, with mild weather and fewer crowds. Summer (July to August) can be very hot and crowded, while Winter (November to March) is cooler but still pleasant for sightseeing.

How do I get around Athens?

• Public Transport: Athens has an extensive public transport system including buses, trams, and the metro. Purchase a multi-ride ticket or Athens Transport Card for convenience. The metro is particularly useful for reaching major sites.
• Taxis and Ride-Sharing: Taxis are readily available, and ride-sharing apps like Uber also operate in Athens.
• Walking: Many of Athens’ main attractions are within walking distance of each other, particularly in central neighborhoods like Plaka and Monastiraki.

What should I wear when visiting historical sites?

• Comfortable Shoes: Wear comfortable walking shoes as you’ll be doing a lot of walking on uneven surfaces.
• Weather-Appropriate Clothing: Dress in layers. In summer, lightweight and breathable clothing is recommended, while in winter, a warm jacket is necessary.
• Respectful Attire: When visiting religious sites, modest clothing covering shoulders and knees is advisable. Avoid wearing hats and shorts in places of worship.

Are there any special tips for visiting the Acropolis?

• Buy Tickets in Advance: To avoid long queues, purchase your tickets online in advance.
• Visit Early: Arrive early to avoid the crowds and the midday heat.
• Guided Tours: Consider a guided tour or audio guide to gain deeper insights into the history and significance of the site.

What are some local customs I should be aware of?

• Greeting: A handshake is a common form of greeting. Greeks are friendly and may greet you with a kiss on both cheeks if you are familiar.
• Dining Etiquette: It is customary to leave a tip of around 5-10% in restaurants. If you’re invited to someone’s home, it’s polite to bring a small gift such as wine or sweets.
• Dress Code: Casual attire is generally acceptable, but upscale restaurants and some venues may require smart casual dress.

Are there any unique local dishes I should try?

• Local Cuisine: Don’t miss trying classic Greek dishes such as moussaka, souvlaki, gyros, and baklava. For a refreshing drink, try ouzo or a traditional Greek coffee.

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