Athens 3 Day Itinerary

Day 1: Ancient Athens

Morning

  • 9:00 AM: Start your day at the iconic Acropolis of Athens, a UNESCO World Heritage Site. Explore the Parthenon, a breathtaking ancient temple dedicated to the goddess Athena.
  • 10:30 AM: Visit the nearby Parthenon Museum, which houses many of the sculptures that once adorned the temple.

Afternoon

  • 12:00 PM: Take a break and enjoy lunch at Ta Karamanlidika Tou Fani (Greek cuisine with international flavors). Try their famous grilled octopus or moussaka.
  • 2:00 PM: Visit the National Archaeological Museum, which houses some of the world’s most significant ancient Greek artifacts.

Evening

  • 7:00 PM: Enjoy dinner at Varoulko Seaside (seafood restaurant with a stunning view). Savor their fresh seafood and enjoy the sunset.
  • 9:30 PM: Explore the lively nightlife of Psirri, a charming neighborhood filled with bars, clubs, and live music.

Stay

  • Stay at Hotel Plaka (3-star hotel in the heart of Plaka), which offers comfortable rooms and a warm atmosphere.

Transportation

  • Walking: Athens is a walkable city. Explore on foot to discover hidden gems.
  • Metro: Use the metro system to quickly get around the city. The closest stop to the Acropolis is Monastiraki (Line 1).
  • Taxi: Taxis are readily available, but be aware that traffic can be heavy.

Tips

  • Respect local customs: Dress modestly when visiting ancient sites and churches.
  • Try traditional Greek cuisine: Enjoy local specialties like souvlaki, moussaka, and Greek salad.
  • Don’t drink tap water: Stick to bottled or filtered water.
  • Bargain at markets: Haggling is expected at flea markets and street vendors.

Day 2: Modern Athens

Morning

  • 9:00 AM: Start your day in the vibrant neighborhood of Monastiraki, known for its street art, flea market, and lively atmosphere.
  • 10:30 AM: Visit the Stavros Niarchos Foundation Cultural Center, a stunning modern complex that houses several cultural institutions.

Afternoon

  • 12:00 PM: Enjoy lunch at Strofi ( rooftop restaurant with great views). Try their famous grilled meats and enjoy the scenery.
  • 2:00 PM: Visit the Benaki Museum, which showcases Greek art, culture, and history in a beautiful neoclassical building.

Evening

  • 7:00 PM: Enjoy dinner at To Spitiko (Greek tavern with traditional cuisine). Savor their delicious grilled meats and enjoy live music.
  • 9:30 PM: Explore the lively nightlife of Gazi, a neighborhood filled with bars, clubs, and live music.

Stay

  • Stay at Hotel Herodion (4-star hotel near the Acropolis), which offers luxurious rooms and stunning views.

Transportation

  • Walking: Explore the city on foot to discover hidden gems.
  • Metro: Use the metro system to quickly get around the city. The closest stop to Monastiraki is the same as Day 1.
  • Taxi: Taxis are readily available, but be aware that traffic can be heavy.

Tips

  • Respect local customs: Dress modestly when visiting ancient sites and churches.
  • Try traditional Greek cuisine: Enjoy local specialties like souvlaki, moussaka, and Greek salad.
  • Don’t drink tap water: Stick to bottled or filtered water.
  • Bargain at markets: Haggling is expected at flea markets and street vendors.

Day 3: Day Trip to Sounion

Morning

  • 9:00 AM: Take a day trip to the stunning ancient temple of Poseidon at Sounion, located about an hour south of Athens.
  • 10:30 AM: Explore the temple and take in the breathtaking views of the Aegean Sea.

Afternoon

  • 12:00 PM: Enjoy lunch at Sounio Beach (seafood restaurant with stunning views). Try their fresh seafood and enjoy the scenery.
  • 2:00 PM: Visit the nearby Lavrio Museum, which showcases ancient artifacts from the region.

Return to Athens

  • 4:00 PM: Head back to Athens, where you can enjoy your last evening in the city.
  • 7:00 PM: Enjoy a farewell dinner at Varoulko Seaside (seafood restaurant with stunning views).
  • 9:30 PM: Explore the lively nightlife of Psirri or Gazi.

Stay

  • Stay at Hotel Plaka (3-star hotel in the heart of Plaka), which offers comfortable rooms and a warm atmosphere.

Transportation

  • Private car transfer: Use a private car to travel from Athens to Sounion. This will take about an hour each way.
  • Public bus: Take the public bus from Athens to Sounion. This will take about 1.5 hours each way.

Tips

  • Respect local customs: Dress modestly when visiting ancient sites and churches.
  • Try traditional Greek cuisine: Enjoy local specialties like souvlaki, moussaka, and Greek salad.
  • Don’t drink tap water: Stick to bottled or filtered water.
  • Bargain at markets: Haggling is expected at flea markets and street vendors.