Athens, Greece-4-day-itinerary

Day 1: Ancient History

  • Morning: Start your day at the iconic Acropolis of Athens, a UNESCO World Heritage Site. Explore the Parthenon, a ancient temple dedicated to Athena, as well as the Propylaea, the Temple of Athena Nike, and the Erechtheion.
    • Address: Dionysiou Areopagitou St, Athens 105 55
  • Lunch: Grab a traditional Greek salad and souvlaki at Ta Karamanlidika Tou Phokaia, a cozy taverna near the Acropolis. ( Address: 25 Mitropoleos St, Athens 105 56 )
  • Afternoon: Visit the Ancient Agora of Athens, the heart of ancient Athens. Explore the Temple of Hephaestus, the Stoa of Attalos, and the Museum of the Ancient Agora.
    • Address: 1 Odou Stadiou, Athens 105 55
  • Evening: Enjoy a traditional Greek dinner at Varoulko Seaside, with stunning views of the Saronic Gulf. ( Address: 14 Poseidonos Ave, Glyfada )
  • Where to Stay: Consider staying in the historic neighborhood of Plaka, within walking distance to the Acropolis and other major attractions.
    • Hotel recommendation: Hotel Plaka

Day 2: Cultural Immersion

  • Morning: Visit the National Archaeological Museum, one of the world’s greatest museums. Explore the artifacts from ancient Greece, including the golden Mycenaean mask and the stunning frescoes from Thera.
    • Address: 28 Oktovriou St, Athens 115 21
  • Lunch: Try some delicious street food at Varvakios Agora, a historic marketplace where locals buy fresh produce and souvenirs. Look for traditional Greek snacks like loukoumades (deep-fried dough balls) or tsoureki (sweet bread).
    • Address: 6 Sofokleous St, Athens 105 55
  • Afternoon: Explore the Monastiraki Flea Market, a lively marketplace selling everything from vintage clothing to antique furniture. Be prepared for crowds and vendors calling out their wares!
    • Address: Plateia Varvakion, Monastiraki
  • Evening: Enjoy live music and drinks at The Clumsies Bar, a trendy bar with an impressive cocktail menu.
    • Address: 32 Irakliou St, Athens 105 55

Day 3: Islands and Beaches

  • Morning: Take the ferry to Aegina Island, known for its stunning beaches, ancient ruins, and delicious pistachio production. Visit the Temple of Aphaia, a well-preserved ancient temple dedicated to an early goddess.
    • Ferry tickets can be booked through Blue Star Ferries or Hellenic Seaways
  • Lunch: Try some fresh seafood at To Spitiko Taverna, a cozy beachside restaurant on Aegina Island. ( Address: 15 Diamantopoulou St, Vathi Beach )
  • Afternoon: Relax on the stunning Vathi Beach*, with its crystal-clear waters and powdery sand.
    • Address: Vathi Beach, Aegina Island
  • Evening: Enjoy a romantic dinner at Tamam Restaurant, overlooking the Saronic Gulf. ( Address: 7 Katsouli St, Athens )

Day 4: Shopping and Entertainment

  • Morning: Visit the Monastiraki Flea Market again, but this time focus on shopping for unique souvenirs or vintage items.
    • Address: Plateia Varvakion, Monastiraki
  • Lunch: Grab a bite to eat at Ta Karamanlidika Tou Phokaia, the cozy taverna near the Acropolis. ( Address: 25 Mitropoleos St, Athens 105 56 )
  • Afternoon: Explore the trendy neighborhood of Gazi, known for its fashion boutiques and upscale restaurants.
    • Address: Gazi Square, Athens
  • Evening: Enjoy live music or comedy at The Theatre of the Republic*, a historic theater with an impressive schedule of events.
    • Address: 5 Vasilissis Olgas Ave, Athens

Things to Know

  • The official currency is the Euro (€).
  • Greece has a Mediterranean climate; temperatures can rise in summer and drop in winter.
  • Be prepared for crowds and long lines at popular tourist attractions.
  • Respect local customs and traditions, especially when visiting ancient sites or churches.

Transportation

  • Athens International Airport (ATH) is located about 20 kilometers from the city center. You can take a taxi, bus, or metro to get into town.
  • The metro system in Athens is efficient and relatively cheap. A single ticket costs €1.40.
  • Bus and tram services are also available throughout the city.

Tips

  • Learn some basic Greek phrases like “Γεια σας” (Geia sas) for “cheers!” or “Ευχαριστώ” (Efharistó) for “thank you.”
  • Try to avoid eating at touristy restaurants, and opt for local tavernas instead.
  • Don’t drink tap water; stick to bottled water or order a carafe of fresh water at a restaurant.

Other Interests

  • Consider visiting the Athens Olympic Stadium, where the 2004 Summer Olympics took place. ( Address: 25 Kifissias Ave, Marousi )
  • Explore the trendy neighborhood of Psirri*, known for its street art and alternative culture.
    • Address: Psirri Square, Athens