Athens, Greece-7-day-itinerary

Day 1: Arrival in Athens

Places to Go

  • Arrive at Athens Eleftherios Venizelos International Airport (ATH)
  • Take the metro from the airport to Monastiraki station (€10, ~20 minutes)
  • Check-in at your hotel (see below for recommendations)

Activities

  • Spend the afternoon exploring the nearby Monastiraki Flea Market (Sunday only) or shop in the nearby streets
  • Visit the famous Psirri neighborhood for a taste of Athenian nightlife

Where to Eat

  • Ta Karamanlidika tou Fani: Traditional Greek cuisine, try their moussaka and grilled octopus (~€20-30 per meal)
  • Ouzeri tou Laki: Classic taverna experience with a wide selection of ouzo and meze (small plates) (~€15-25 per meal)

Where to Stay

  • Hotel Plaka: Charming boutique hotel in the heart of the Monastiraki neighborhood (~€100-150 per night)
  • Airbnb: Rent an apartment or room in the trendy Psirri neighborhood for a more local experience

Day 2: Ancient Athens

Places to Go

  • Visit the Acropolis of Athens, home to the iconic Parthenon (€20, ~1 hour)
  • Explore the surrounding Agora, once the heart of ancient Athens (~1.5 hours)

Activities

  • Attend a guided tour at the Acropolis Museum (€10, ~2 hours)
  • Visit the nearby Panathenaic Stadium, site of the first modern Olympic Games

Where to Eat

  • To Spitiko: Delicious Greek cuisine in a cozy atmosphere, try their souvlaki and salads (~€20-30 per meal)
  • Kostas Taverna: Traditional taverna with a focus on seafood and live music (~€15-25 per meal)

Day 3: Modern Athens

Places to Go

  • Visit the National Garden, a peaceful oasis in the heart of the city (free admission, ~1 hour)
  • Explore the trendy neighborhood of Gazi, known for its street art and nightlife

Activities

  • Attend a performance at the Greek National Opera or Athens Concert Hall
  • Visit the nearby Onassis Cultural Centre

Where to Eat

  • Funky Town: Tasty burgers and sandwiches in a fun atmosphere (~€10-20 per meal)
  • Taverna tou Psirri: Traditional taverna with live music and dancing

Day 4: Day Trip

Places to Go

  • Take a day trip to the nearby island of Aegina, famous for its beaches and historic sites ( ferry from Piraeus port, ~€5-10 per person, round-trip)
  • Visit the ancient city of Delphi ( bus or tour from Athens, ~€20-30 per person)

Activities

  • Explore the island’s scenic coastline and beaches
  • Visit the nearby temple of Poseidon

Where to Eat

  • Captain Yannis: Fresh seafood on the waterfront in Aegina town (~€15-25 per meal)
  • Delphi Hotel Restaurant: Traditional Greek cuisine with stunning views

Day 5: Neoclassical Athens

Places to Go

  • Visit the National Library of Greece, a stunning neoclassical building (free admission, ~30 minutes)
  • Explore the nearby Zappeion Mansion

Activities

  • Attend a concert or event at the Tzavellas Mansion
  • Take a stroll along the scenic Ilissus River walking path

Where to Eat

  • Kafe Stoa: Charming cafe with delicious pastries and coffee (~€5-10 per person)
  • To Parthenon: Traditional taverna with live music and dancing

Day 6: Street Food and Shopping

Places to Go

  • Visit the bustling street food market in Monastiraki Flea Market (Sunday only)
  • Explore the nearby shopping streets, including Ermou Street

Activities

  • Take a stroll along the scenic Kotzia Square
  • Attend a flea market or shopping spree in one of Athens’ many markets

Where to Eat

  • Ta Karamanlidika tou Fani: Try their famous grilled octopus and moussaka (~€20-30 per meal)
  • Ouzeri tou Laki: Enjoy their ouzo and meze at this classic taverna (~€15-25 per meal)

Day 7: Departure

Places to Go

  • Spend the morning shopping for last-minute souvenirs or exploring a new neighborhood
  • Return your rental car (if you have one) or take the metro back to the airport

Activities

  • Attend a farewell dinner at one of Athens’ many restaurants or tavernas
  • Take some final photos and memories before departing

Things to Know

  • Weather: Summer temperatures can reach 40°C (104°F), while winters are mild.
  • Currency: The Euro is the official currency, although some shops may accept credit cards.
  • Language: Greek is the official language, but many Athenians speak English.

Transportation

  • Metro: Efficient and affordable public transportation system connecting Athens’ neighborhoods (€1.20 per ride).
  • Bus: Extensive network of buses connecting Athens with its suburbs and nearby cities.
  • Taxi: Available throughout the city, but be prepared for higher prices (~€10-15 for short rides).

Tips

  • Respect local customs: Dress modestly when visiting churches or mosques.
  • Bargain at markets: Haggling is a common practice at flea markets and street stalls.
  • Try local food: Athenian cuisine is delicious, with plenty of seafood options.

Other Things to Do

  • Take a cooking class: Learn how to make traditional Greek dishes like moussaka and spanakopita.
  • Visit the nearby city of Piraeus: Explore its historic harbor and waterfront restaurants.
  • Attend a local festival or event: Athens hosts many cultural events throughout the year.