Athens, Greece-3-day-itinerary

Day 1: Ancient Athens

Morning

  • 8:00 AM: Start the day with a traditional Greek breakfast at Café Society, a cozy spot near Monastiraki Flea Market. Try their signature coffee and some delicious pastries.
  • 9:00 AM: Visit the Acropolis of Athens, the iconic citadel sitting atop a hill in the heart of the city. Explore the Parthenon, a stunning 5th-century BCE temple dedicated to Athena.

Afternoon

  • 12:00 PM: Head to the nearby Monastiraki Flea Market for some lunch and shopping. Try some street food or grab a bite at Taverna Tou Limenari, a local eatery serving traditional Greek cuisine.
  • 2:00 PM: Visit the Ancient Agora of Athens, the site of the ancient city’s heart. Explore the Temple of Hephaestus, the Stoa of Attalos, and other ruins.

Evening

  • 7:00 PM: Enjoy dinner at Ta Karamanlidika Tou Pasha, a historic taverna serving traditional Greek cuisine in a beautiful courtyard setting.
  • 9:00 PM: End the day with a stroll along Papandreou Street (also known as “Monastiraki Street”), lined with shops, cafes, and restaurants.

Accommodations

Consider staying at:

  • Hotel Plaka: A charming hotel in the heart of the Plaka neighborhood, within walking distance to many attractions.
  • Athens Backpackers Hostel: A budget-friendly option for solo travelers or backpackers.

Transportation

  • Metro: Use the Metro to travel between stations. Buy a rechargeable Opal card (€1.20 per journey) or pay with cash at ticket machines.
  • Bus: Take bus #051 from Syntagma Square to Monastiraki Flea Market.

Tips & Things to Know

  • Bargaining: Be prepared for friendly vendors at the Monastiraki Flea Market who may try to negotiate prices.
  • Sun protection: Bring sunscreen, hats, and sunglasses to protect yourself from the intense Greek sun.
  • Respect local customs: Dress modestly when visiting churches or other sacred sites.

Day 2: Contemporary Athens

Morning

  • 9:00 AM: Visit the National Archaeological Museum, one of the world’s greatest museums. Explore its vast collection of ancient artifacts, including works from Mycenae and Troy.
  • 12:30 PM: Grab lunch at Ta Karamanlidika Tou Pasha or try some delicious street food near the museum.

Afternoon

  • 2:00 PM: Head to the Panathenaic Stadium, the site of the ancient Olympic Games. Take a guided tour and enjoy stunning views of the city.
  • 4:30 PM: Visit the Stavros Niarchos Foundation Cultural Centre (SNFCC), a modern cultural complex featuring art exhibitions, concerts, and performances.

Evening

  • 7:00 PM: Enjoy dinner at Varoulko Seaside, a seafood restaurant with stunning views of the Saronic Gulf.
  • 9:00 PM: Explore the trendy neighborhood of Gazi, known for its nightlife, bars, and clubs.

Accommodations

Consider staying at:

  • Hotel Herodion: A luxurious hotel in the heart of Athens, offering stunning views of the Acropolis.
  • Athens Central Hotel: A modern hotel with comfortable rooms and a rooftop bar.

Transportation

  • Metro: Use the Metro to travel between stations. Buy a rechargeable Opal card (€1.20 per journey) or pay with cash at ticket machines.
  • Bus: Take bus #051 from Syntagma Square to Gazi neighborhood.

Tips & Things to Know

  • Language: Greek is the official language, but many Athenians speak English fluently.
  • Currency: The Euro (€) is the local currency. Credit cards are widely accepted.
  • Tips: Show appreciation for good service by leaving a small tip (5-10%) at restaurants and bars.

Day 3: Coastline & Beaches

Morning

  • 9:00 AM: Head to the nearby coastal town of Piraeus, where you can take a ferry to Aegina Island or explore the picturesque waterfront.
  • 11:00 AM: Visit the beautiful Beach of Schinias-Rodion, a serene spot perfect for relaxation and swimming.

Afternoon

  • 2:00 PM: Enjoy lunch at Taverna tou Papanasi, a seaside eatery serving fresh seafood and traditional Greek cuisine.
  • 4:00 PM: Visit the historic Sounion Castle (also known as the Temple of Poseidon), perched on a hill overlooking the Saronic Gulf.

Evening

  • 7:00 PM: Enjoy a farewell dinner at Ta Karamanlidika Tou Pasha, or try some seafood at Varoulko Seaside.
  • 9:00 PM: End the day with a stroll along the picturesque waterfront, taking in the sights and sounds of Piraeus.

Accommodations

Consider staying at:

  • Hotel Plaka: A charming hotel in the heart of the Plaka neighborhood, within walking distance to many attractions.
  • Athens Backpackers Hostel: A budget-friendly option for solo travelers or backpackers.

Transportation

  • Metro: Use the Metro to travel between stations. Buy a rechargeable Opal card (€1.20 per journey) or pay with cash at ticket machines.
  • Ferry: Take a ferry from Piraeus to Aegina Island (approximately 30 minutes).

Additional Tips & Things to Know

  • Pickpocketing: Be mindful of your belongings, especially in crowded areas and tourist hotspots.
  • Tipping: Show appreciation for good service by leaving a small tip (5-10%) at restaurants and bars.
  • Respect local customs: Dress modestly when visiting churches or other sacred sites.

Enjoy your trip to Athens!