Explore Historic Athens, Greece in 2 Days Itinerary

Athens, Greece

2 days

Panorama of the city
Vouliagmeni lake
Charming greek street with cafes and restaurants in Plaka district
Parthenon ancient temple
Sandy beach of Asteras in Vouliagmeni in Glyfada

About Athens, Greece

Experience the rich history and vibrant culture of Athens, Greece. As the cradle of Western civilization, Athens boasts iconic landmarks like the Acropolis, Parthenon, and the ancient Agora, offering a glimpse into its glorious past. Wander through the charming Plaka district with its quaint shops and traditional tavernas. Visit the world-class National Archaeological Museum and the modern Acropolis Museum. Enjoy the Mediterranean climate, savor delicious Greek cuisine, and immerse yourself in the city's lively nightlife. Athens also serves as a gateway to the beautiful Greek islands. Whether you're a history buff, a foodie, or a sun-seeker, Athens promises an unforgettable journey.

2-Day Itinerary

Day 1

Exploring Ancient Athens and Vibrant Neighborhoods

Morning

Start your day with a visit to the iconic Acropolis, a UNESCO World Heritage Site that offers stunning views of the city. This ancient citadel houses several ancient buildings of great architectural and historic significance, the most famous being the Parthenon.

Lunch

Enjoy a traditional Greek lunch in the vibrant neighborhood of Plaka, known for its charming streets and neoclassical architecture. Here, you can taste local delicacies such as moussaka, souvlaki, and tzatziki.

Afternoon

Spend your afternoon exploring the National Archaeological Museum, which boasts the world's most comprehensive collection of artifacts from Greek antiquity.

Dinner

Have dinner in the trendy area of Gazi, where you can experience the modern side of Greek cuisine in a lively and contemporary setting.

Evening

End your day with a stroll around the historic neighborhood of Monastiraki, famous for its flea market and vibrant nightlife.

Morning

Begin your second day with a visit to the Temple of Olympian Zeus, a monumental temple in the center of Athens that was dedicated to Zeus, the king of the Olympian gods.

Lunch

Have lunch in the picturesque area of Anafiotika, a scenic tiny neighborhood of Athens, part of old historical neighborhood called Plaka. It lies in northerneast side of the Acropolis hill.

Afternoon

In the afternoon, visit the Panathenaic Stadium, the only stadium in the world built entirely of marble and the site of the first modern Olympic Games in 1896.

Dinner

Enjoy a dinner in the upscale neighborhood of Kolonaki, known for its high-end boutiques and sophisticated dining scene.

Evening

Wrap up your trip with a visit to Mount Lycabettus for a panoramic view of Athens under the stars. This is the highest point in the city that provides a panoramic view of Athens.

Attractions in Itinerary (11)

Acropolis

1
Acropolis

The ancient citadel located on a rocky outcrop above the city of Athens and contains the remains of several ancient buildings of great architectural and historic significance, the most famous being the Parthenon.

Attractions
Monuments
Landmarks
Cultural Experiences
Architecture
Parthenon

2
Parthenon

A former temple on the Athenian Acropolis, dedicated to the goddess Athena, whom the people of Athens considered their patron.

Attractions
Monuments
Landmarks
Cultural Experiences
Architecture
Plaka

3
Plaka

The old historical neighborhood of Athens, clustered around the northern and eastern slopes of the Acropolis, known for its labyrinthine streets and neoclassical architecture.

Attractions
Neighborhoods
Cultural Experiences
Architecture
Food and Drink
National Archaeological Museum

4
National Archaeological Museum

The largest archaeological museum in Greece and one of the most important museums in the world devoted to ancient Greek art.

Attractions
Museums
Cultural Experiences
Gazi

5
Gazi

A neighborhood in Athens known for its vibrant nightlife, trendy bars, and modern art galleries.

Neighborhoods
Cultural Experiences
Food and Drink
Entertainment
Monastiraki

6
Monastiraki

A flea market neighborhood in the old town of Athens, and is one of the principal shopping districts in Athens.

Attractions
Neighborhoods
Shopping
Food and Drink
Temple of Olympian Zeus

7
Temple of Olympian Zeus

A former colossal temple at the center of the Greek capital Athens dedicated to Zeus, king of the Olympian gods.

Attractions
Monuments
Landmarks
Cultural Experiences
Architecture
Anafiotika

8
Anafiotika

A scenic tiny neighborhood of Athens, part of the old historical neighborhood called Plaka. It lies in northerneast side of the Acropolis hill.

Neighborhoods
Cultural Experiences
Panathenaic Stadium

9
Panathenaic Stadium

A multi-purpose stadium in Athens, Greece. One of the main historic attractions of Athens, it is the only stadium in the world built entirely of marble.

Attractions
Sports
Landmarks
Kolonaki

10
Kolonaki

A wealthy, chic and upmarket district, and a fashionable meeting area. As one of the capital's leading shopping areas, it includes a number of high-end boutiques from young adult to casual fashion to prestigious haute couture from Greek and international designers.

Neighborhoods
Shopping
Food and Drink
Mount Lycabettus

11
Mount Lycabettus

A Cretaceous limestone hill in Athens, Greece. At 277 meters (908 feet) above sea level, the hill is the highest point in the city that surrounds it.

Attractions
Landmarks
Tours

Local Food and Drinks (12)

Moussaka

Moussaka

A traditional Greek dish made of layered eggplant, minced meat, and béchamel sauce, a must-try when in Athens.

Souvlaki

Souvlaki

Popular Greek fast food consisting of small pieces of meat and sometimes vegetables grilled on a skewer, a common sight in Athens.

Tzatziki

Tzatziki

A classic Greek appetizer or dip made from yogurt, cucumber, garlic, olive oil, and sometimes lemon juice, and dill. It's a staple in Athens.

Dolmades

Dolmades

Stuffed grape leaves with a filling of rice, often includes pine nuts, and various spices. A traditional dish in Athens.

Spanakopita

Spanakopita

A savory Greek pastry with a filling of chopped spinach, feta cheese, onions, egg, and seasoning, a popular snack in Athens.

Baklava

Baklava

A rich, sweet dessert pastry made of layers of filo filled with chopped nuts and sweetened and held together with syrup or honey. It's a classic dessert in Athens.

Horiatiki

Horiatiki

Also known as Greek Salad, it is made with pieces of tomatoes, sliced cucumbers, onion, feta cheese, and olives, typically seasoned with salt and oregano, and dressed with olive oil. A common dish in Athens.

Pastitsio

Pastitsio

A baked pasta dish with ground meat and béchamel sauce, similar to lasagna but with tubular pasta, and cinnamon, nutmeg, and allspice. A traditional dish in Athens.

Loukoumades

Loukoumades

Small, sweet fried dough balls drenched in honey syrup and sprinkled with cinnamon, a popular dessert in Athens.

Retsina

Retsina

A traditional Greek resinated white or rosé wine, which has been made for at least 2000 years. Its unique flavor is said to have originated from the practice of sealing wine vessels, particularly amphorae, with Aleppo Pine resin in ancient times. A must-try when in Athens.

Ouzo

Ouzo

An anise-flavored aperitif that is widely consumed in Greece and Cyprus, and a symbol of Greek culture. Best enjoyed in Athens.

Frappe

Frappe

A foam-covered iced coffee drink made from instant coffee, water, sugar, and milk. It's a popular drink in Athens, especially during the hot summer months.

Best time to visit

The best time to visit Athens, Greece is during the spring (April to June) or fall (September to November). During these periods, the weather is mild and pleasant, perfect for sightseeing and exploring the city's ancient sites. Additionally, these are considered shoulder seasons, so it's less crowded with tourists compared to the peak summer months. This means shorter lines at attractions and potentially lower prices for accommodations.

National holidays

Here you can find the national calendar of all public holidays for the year. These dates are subject to change as official changes are announced, so check back regularly for updates.

DateDayHoliday Name

January 1

Mon

New Year's Day

January 6

Sat

Epiphany

March 18

Mon

Clean Monday

March 25

Mon

Annunciation of the Virgin Mary

March 25

Mon

Greek Independence Day

May 1

Wed

Labor Day / May Day

May 3

Fri

Orthodox Good Friday

May 6

Mon

Orthodox Easter Monday

June 24

Mon

Orthodox Holy Spirit Monday

August 15

Thu

Dormition of the Holy Virgin

October 28

Mon

The Ochi day

December 25

Wed

Christmas Day

December 26

Thu

Synaxis of the Mother of God

Please note that during national and public holidays, opening hours for establishments, museums, etc. may vary. Don't forget to check in advance!

How to get around

The Athens Metro is a rapid-transit system in Greece which serves the Athens urban area and parts of East Attica. It incorporates the former Athens-Piraeus Electric Railways, which opened as a conventional steam railway in 1869, and which was electrified in 1904 and is now part of Line 1. The metro system provides a fast, efficient and cheap way to get around the city.

Athens has an extensive bus network that covers the city center, suburbs, and nearby areas. The buses are modern and most of them are air-conditioned. The bus network includes regular buses, express buses to the airport, and night buses.

The Athens Tram is a tram network which serves the southern coastal suburbs of Athens, Greece. It is operated by Urban Rail Transport (STASY) S.A. It provides a scenic and convenient way to travel along the coast, and connects with the metro and bus networks.

Taxis are a common way to get around in Athens. They are relatively inexpensive and can be hailed on the street or booked in advance. All taxis are equipped with a meter, and drivers are required by law to use it.

Ridesharing services like Uber and Beat are available in Athens. These services allow you to book a ride using a smartphone app. They are a convenient and often cheaper alternative to taxis, especially if you are traveling with a group or have a lot of luggage.

If you prefer to drive yourself, there are many car rental companies in Athens. Driving in Athens can be challenging due to heavy traffic and narrow streets, but it gives you the flexibility to explore the city and surrounding areas at your own pace.

Athens has a growing network of bicycle lanes, and many areas of the city are flat and easy to navigate by bike. There are several places where you can rent a bike for the day or for a longer period.

Walking is a great way to explore Athens, especially the historic city center. Many of the city's main attractions, including the Acropolis, Plaka, and the National Archaeological Museum, are within walking distance of each other.

The Lycabettus Funicular is a funicular railway in Athens, which links Kolonaki to the summit of Lycabettus hill. It provides a unique and scenic way to reach one of the best viewpoints in the city.

While we strive for accuracy in our "How to get around" section, the information may not always be up-to-date or 100% accurate; we highly recommend cross-checking with local resources before your travel.

Important information

Currency€ EUR

Time zoneUTC+2

Driving sideRight

Emergency phoneAmbulance: 112, 166; Fire: 112, 199; Police: 112, 100

Drinking waterOpt for bottled water

Power sockets

Power socket type CPower socket type F

Voltage230 V

Things to know about Athens, Greece as a first time visitor

1

The official language is Greek, but English is widely spoken in tourist areas.

2

The currency is the Euro (€). Credit cards are widely accepted, but it's also a good idea to carry some cash.

3

Tipping is customary in Greece. In restaurants, it's common to leave a tip of around 5-10% of the bill.

4

The standard voltage in Greece is 230 V, and the frequency is 50 Hz. The power plugs and sockets are of type F.

5

Greece is in the Eastern European Time Zone (EET), which is 2 hours ahead of Coordinated Universal Time (UTC+2).

6

Greece has a Mediterranean climate. Summers (June to August) are hot and dry with temperatures often above 86°F (30°C), while winters (December to February) are mild with temperatures usually between 41-59°F (5-15°C).

7

Public transportation in Athens includes buses, trolleys, trams, and the metro. Taxis are also widely available.

8

Greece is generally a safe country, but like any major city, Athens has areas that are best avoided. Always be aware of your surroundings and keep your belongings secure.

9

Greek cuisine is a highlight of any visit. Be sure to try local dishes such as moussaka, souvlaki, and tzatziki.

10

Smoking is very common in Greece and is allowed in many public places, including some restaurants and bars.

11

Tap water in Athens is generally safe to drink, but bottled water is widely available if you prefer.

12

Greece operates on a 24-hour clock, similar to military time in the U.S. For example, 1:00 p.m. would be 13:00.

13

Pharmacies in Greece are marked with a green cross and are usually open from 8:00 to 14:30 and then from 17:30 to 20:30.

14

The emergency number in Greece for police, fire, and ambulance services is 112.

15

Greece has strict laws against drug use, and penalties can be severe.

16

Public restrooms can be hard to find in Athens, and many charge a small fee.

17

It's considered respectful to dress modestly when visiting religious sites, such as churches and monasteries.

18

Greece has a strict policy against photographing military installations or personnel.

19

Most shops in Athens close on Sundays, and many also close in the afternoon for a few hours.

20

Athens can be very crowded, especially during the peak tourist season (June to August). Plan accordingly to avoid the crowds.

Basic Greek to know as a first time visitor

English phrase

Native phrase

Pronunciation

When to use it

Hello

Γεια σου

Yah soo

Greeting someone

Goodbye

Αντίο

Adio

Leaving or saying goodbye

Please

Παρακαλώ

Parakalo

Making a request

Thank you

Ευχαριστώ

Efharisto

Expressing gratitude

Yes

Ναι

Nai

Agreeing or confirming

No

Όχι

Ohi

Disagreeing or denying

Excuse me

Συγγνώμη

Signomi

Getting attention or apologizing

I'm sorry

Λυπάμαι

Lipame

Apologizing

Do you speak English?

Μιλάτε αγγλικά;

Milate anglika;

Trying to communicate

I don't understand

Δεν καταλαβαίνω

Den katalaveno

Difficulty in understanding

Help

Βοήθεια

Voítheia

In emergencies

Bathroom

Μπάνιο

Bánio

Looking for a restroom

Food

Φαγητό

Fagitó

Looking for a place to eat

Water

Νερό

Neró

Asking for water

Beer

Μπύρα

Bíra

Ordering a beer

Wine

Κρασί

Krasí

Ordering a wine

Check, please

Ο λογαριασμός, παρακαλώ

O logariasmos, parakaló

Asking for the bill

How much does it cost?

Πόσο κοστίζει;

Poso kostízei;

Enquiring about the price

Where is...?

Πού είναι...?

Pou ine...?

Asking for directions

I'm lost

Έχω χαθεί

Eho hathee

When you are lost

Packing List

  • Clothing

  • Lightweight clothing

  • Comfortable walking shoes

  • Swimwear

  • Sunglasses

  • Hat

  • Light jacket or sweater for cooler evenings

  • Toiletries

  • Travel-sized shampoo and conditioner

  • Toothbrush and toothpaste

  • Deodorant

  • Razor and shaving cream

  • Sunscreen

  • Lip balm with SPF

  • Hand sanitizer

  • First-aid kit (band-aids, antiseptic wipes, tweezers)

  • Travel documents and essentials

  • Passport

  • Driver's license or other ID

  • Credit and debit cards

  • Cash in local currency (Euros)

  • Travel insurance documents

  • Hotel and transportation reservation confirmations

  • Emergency contacts and important addresses

  • Electronics and gadgets

  • Smartphone

  • Charger for smartphone

  • Universal power adapter

  • Digital camera

  • Charger for digital camera

  • Headphones

  • Miscellaneous items

  • Travel guidebook for Athens

  • Map of Athens

  • Reusable water bottle

  • Snacks

  • Travel pillow and blanket

  • Earplugs and eye mask

  • Notebook and pen

Weather Conditions

When visiting Athens, Greece, it's crucial to consider the weather as it can significantly impact your travel experience. Athens experiences a Mediterranean climate with hot, dry summers and mild, wet winters. During the summer months (June to August), temperatures can soar up to 95°F (35°C), so it's advisable to pack light clothing, sunblock, hats, and sunglasses to protect yourself from the heat. It's also a good idea to stay hydrated and plan sightseeing activities during the cooler parts of the day, such as early morning or late afternoon. Spring (April to June) and autumn (September to November) are considered the best times to visit Athens. The weather is typically warm and pleasant, with temperatures ranging from 60°F (15°C) to 75°F (24°C). These seasons are perfect for outdoor activities and sightseeing, as the city is less crowded and the weather is comfortable. Winter (December to February) in Athens is mild compared to other European cities, with temperatures usually between 41°F (5°C) and 59°F (15°C). However, rainfall is more frequent during this period, so packing a waterproof jacket or umbrella would be wise. Regardless of the season, it's always a good idea to check the weather forecast before your trip to ensure you're adequately prepared. Remember, the weather can sometimes be unpredictable, so packing a variety of clothing options is always a good idea.

MonthHi / Lo (°C)Weather Overview

January

15° / 5°

January is the coldest month in Athens, but it's still relatively mild compared to many other European destinations. The weather can be unpredictable, with occasional rain, so pack accordingly.

February

16° / 6°

February sees a slight increase in temperature, but rain is still possible. It's a good time to visit if you want to avoid the tourist crowds.

March

18° / 8°

March marks the beginning of spring in Athens. The weather starts to warm up, but there can still be some rainy days.

April

21° / 11°

April is a great time to visit Athens, with pleasant temperatures and plenty of sunshine. The Easter celebrations in Greece are also a unique experience.

May

25° / 15°

May is an ideal time to visit Athens, with warm, sunny weather and little rain. It's perfect for sightseeing and exploring the city's outdoor attractions.

June

30° / 20°

June is the start of the summer season in Athens. The weather is hot, but not unbearable, and the city is full of life.

July

33° / 23°

July is the hottest month in Athens, with temperatures often exceeding 30°C. It's a great time to hit the beaches, but be prepared for the heat.

August

33° / 23°

August is equally hot as July, but the city is less crowded as many locals go on vacation. It's a good time to visit if you don't mind the heat.

September

29° / 19°

September is a fantastic time to visit Athens, with less crowds and still warm weather. The sea is also at its warmest, perfect for swimming.

October

25° / 15°

October sees the return of cooler, more comfortable temperatures. It's a great time to visit if you want to avoid the summer crowds and heat.

November

21° / 11°

November is a quiet time to visit Athens, with mild weather and fewer tourists. It's a good time to explore the city's museums and historical sites.

December

17° / 7°

December is the start of winter in Athens, but the weather remains relatively mild. It's a good time to visit if you want to experience the city's Christmas festivities.

Did you know?

Did you know that Athens is one of the oldest cities in the world, with its recorded history spanning over 3,400 years?

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