Athens-7-day-itinerary

Athens, Greece - 7 Day Itinerary

Day 1: Arrival and Acclimatization

Places to Go:

  • Syntagma Square: The heart of Athens, surrounded by beautiful buildings, cafes, and shops.
  • Parliament Building: A stunning example of neoclassical architecture.

Activities:

  • Arrive in Athens and check-in at your accommodation (see below for recommendations).
  • Take a stroll around Syntagma Square to get a feel for the city.

Where to Eat:

  • Ta Karamanlidika Tou Fani (Traditional Greek cuisine)
  • Yamas (Wine bar with small plates)

Tips:

  • Be mindful of your belongings in crowded areas.
  • Try some traditional Greek street food, like souvlaki or moussaka.

Day 2: Ancient Ruins

Places to Go:

  • Acropolis: A UNESCO World Heritage site, featuring the iconic Parthenon and other ancient structures ( tickets: €20)
  • National Archaeological Museum: Home to a vast collection of Greek antiquities (tickets: €10)

Activities:

  • Visit the Acropolis early in the morning or late in the evening to avoid crowds.
  • Explore the National Archaeological Museum to gain insight into Greece’s rich history.

Where to Eat:

  • Ta Karamanlidika Tou Fani (Traditional Greek cuisine)
  • Stavros (Greek tavern with live music)

Things to Know:

  • Be prepared for crowds and long lines at popular tourist spots.
  • Don’t forget your sunscreen, as the sun can be intense.

Day 3: Panoramic Views

Places to Go:

  • Mount Lycabettus: A hill with panoramic views of Athens (free admission)
  • Monastiraki Flea Market: A bustling marketplace for souvenirs and local goods

Activities:

  • Hike up Mount Lycabettus for breathtaking views of the city.
  • Explore the Monastiraki Flea Market to find unique souvenirs.

Where to Eat:

  • Taverna tou Psara (Traditional Greek cuisine)
  • Avocado Cafe (Healthy breakfast options)

Transportation:

  • Take the metro or bus to get to Mount Lycabettus and Monastiraki Flea Market.
  • Be mindful of your belongings in crowded areas.

Day 4: Waterfront and Markets

Places to Go:

  • Piraeus Port: Explore the waterfront, with stunning views of the Saronic Gulf (free admission)
  • Varvakies Market: A bustling marketplace for fresh produce and local goods

Activities:

  • Take a leisurely walk along the Piraeus Port to enjoy the sea views.
  • Visit Varvakies Market to experience the sights and smells of Greek markets.

Where to Eat:

  • The Fisherman’s Tavern (Seafood)
  • Yam’s (Wine bar with small plates)

Day 5: Island Getaway

Places to Go:

  • Aegina Island: A picturesque island with stunning beaches and ancient ruins ( tickets: €10 for ferry ride)
  • Poros Island: A charming island with a beautiful harbor and scenic views

Activities:

  • Take a day trip to Aegina or Poros to explore their unique charm.
  • Enjoy the beautiful beaches, historic sites, and local cuisine.

Day 6: Cultural Experiences

Places to Go:

  • Benaki Museum: A museum showcasing Greek art and culture (tickets: €10)
  • Dora Stratou Dance Theatre: An outdoor theater featuring traditional Greek dance performances

Activities:

  • Visit the Benaki Museum to gain insight into Greece’s rich cultural heritage.
  • Attend a performance at Dora Stratou Dance Theatre to experience traditional Greek dance.

Day 7: Relaxation and Departure

Places to Go:

  • Hydra Island: A charming island with stunning beaches, scenic views, and picturesque architecture (tickets: €10 for ferry ride)
  • Plaka Neighborhood: Explore the narrow streets and charming shops of Athens’ historic heart

Activities:

  • Take a leisurely stroll around Hydra Island or the Plaka Neighborhood to soak up the atmosphere.
  • Enjoy your final dinner in Greece at one of the many restaurants.

Accommodation:

Recommended hotels and apartments include:

  • Hotel Plaka: A family-run hotel with comfortable rooms and a charming atmosphere ( prices: €50-€80 per night)
  • Athens Backpackers: A budget-friendly hostel with dorms and private rooms (prices: €10-€20 per night)

Tips:

  • Always drink tap water instead of bottled water.
  • Don’t tip in restaurants, as it’s not customary in Greece.
  • Be prepared for crowds and long lines at popular tourist spots.

Transportation:

Athens has a well-connected public transportation system, including:

  • Metro: Efficient and convenient for getting around the city ( tickets: €1.20)
  • Buses: A network of buses connecting all areas of Athens (tickets: €1.20)

Things to Know:

Greece is known for its hospitality, so be prepared for warm welcomes and friendly locals.

Safety and Security:

Be mindful of your belongings in crowded areas and keep an eye on your drinks at bars and restaurants.

Health and Medical Care:

Athens has good medical facilities, but it’s always a good idea to have travel insurance.

Other Tips:

Don’t be afraid to try new foods, learn some basic Greek phrases, and soak up the unique atmosphere of Athens. Enjoy your stay!