Athens, Greece-5-day-itinerary

Athens, Greece - 5 Day Itinerary

Day 1: Exploring the Acropolis and Monastiraki Flea Market

Morning

  • Acropolis: Start your day with a visit to the iconic Parthenon (9:00 AM - 7:30 PM). Buy tickets in advance to skip the line.
  • Walk around the Acropolis: Explore the surrounding area, including the Temple of Athena Nike and the Propylaea.

Afternoon

  • Monastiraki Flea Market (Sundays only): Browse through the stalls selling everything from souvenirs to second-hand goods. Be prepared for crowds and haggling.
  • Lunch: Head to Ta Karamanlidika Tou Pasha, a historic tavern serving traditional Greek cuisine.

Evening

  • Odeon of Herodes Atticus (summer concerts): If you’re visiting in the summer, catch a concert at this ancient theater.
  • Dinner: Enjoy dinner at Strofi, a rooftop restaurant with great views of the Acropolis.

Day 2: Ancient Athens and the National Garden

Morning

  • Ancient Agora: Visit the heart of ancient Athens, featuring the Temple of Hephaestus and the Stoa of Attalos.
  • Museum of the Ancient Agora: Explore the artifacts from the site.

Afternoon

  • National Garden: Escape the city chaos with a stroll through this beautiful park. Visit the Zappeion Hall, a stunning example of neoclassical architecture.
  • Lunch: Grab a bite at the nearby Kostas Café, serving traditional Greek cuisine.

Evening

  • Dinner: Try Psarakakis, a cozy restaurant with a focus on seasonal ingredients.
  • Nightlife: Head to Plaka, a historic neighborhood filled with bars and clubs. Visit the famous Bar 360 for great views of the city.

Day 3: Museum Day and a visit to Filopappos Hill

Morning

  • National Archaeological Museum (9:00 AM - 5:00 PM): Spend the morning exploring the world’s largest collection of Greek antiquities.
  • Museum of Cycladic Art: Visit this museum, featuring an impressive collection of Cycladic art.

Afternoon

  • Filopappos Hill: Enjoy panoramic views of the city from this hill. Visit the Monument of Philopappus, a Roman monument.
  • Lunch: Take a break at the nearby Taf Restaurant, serving Greek cuisine with a focus on local ingredients.

Evening

  • Dinner: Try Feta Bistro, a cozy restaurant with a focus on traditional Greek cuisine and great views of the city.
  • Nightlife: Visit Gazi, a trendy neighborhood filled with bars and clubs. Check out the famous Gazi Beach for great food and drinks by the water.

Day 4: Athens Coast and a visit to Glyfada

Morning

  • Glyfada (30 minutes from city center): Head to this upscale coastal town for some beach time.
  • Lunch: Grab lunch at one of the many restaurants in Glyfada, such as the famous Tiki restaurant.

Afternoon

  • Visit the Church of the Virgin Mary (Panagia Glyfada): A beautiful church with great views of the sea.
  • Shop and relax: Spend the afternoon shopping or relaxing on the beach.

Evening

  • Dinner: Try one of the many seafood restaurants in Glyfada, such as the famous To Spitiko restaurant.
  • Nightlife: Enjoy a relaxed evening at one of the many bars or clubs in Glyfada.

Day 5: Monastiraki and Psirri Neighborhoods

Morning

  • Monastiraki Neighborhood (Sundays only): Visit this historic neighborhood for some shopping, eating, and people-watching.
  • Lunch: Grab lunch at one of the many cafes or tavernas in the area.

Afternoon

  • Psirri Neighborhood: Explore this trendy neighborhood filled with bars, clubs, and street art.
  • Visit the Church of St. John the Baptist (Agios Ioannis Theologos): A historic church with great architecture.

Evening

  • Dinner: Try one of the many restaurants in Psirri, such as the famous Barroco restaurant.
  • Nightlife: Enjoy a relaxed evening at one of the many bars or clubs in the area.

Where to Stay

  • Hotel Plaka: A historic hotel with great views of the Acropolis. (Average price: €80-€120 per night)
  • The Herodion Hotel: A modern hotel with a rooftop pool and great views of the city. (Average price: €100-€150 per night)

Things to Know

  • Language: Greek is the official language, but many Athenians speak English.
  • Currency: Euro (€) is the local currency.
  • Weather: Athens has hot summers and mild winters.

Transportation

  • Metro: A convenient way to get around the city. Buy a ticket for €1.20 or use your credit card.
  • Bus: An affordable option, with fares starting from €1.40. Use the app “Moovit” to navigate the bus network.
  • Taxi: Always agree on the fare before you start your journey.

Tips

  • Respect local customs: Dress modestly when visiting churches and ancient sites.
  • Bargain: Haggling is a normal part of shopping in Greece. Don’t be afraid to negotiate prices.
  • Stay hydrated: Athens can get hot during the summer months, so drink plenty of water.

Other Things to Do

  • Take a food tour: Explore the city’s culinary scene with a guided tour.
  • Visit the nearby port: Take a ferry or boat ride to explore the surrounding islands and coastline.
  • Explore the nearby mountains: Hike or take a scenic drive through the nearby hills for breathtaking views.