Athens, Greece

Athens, the cradle of Western civilization, is known for its ancient ruins, vibrant neighborhoods, and delicious Mediterranean cuisine. This 3 to 5-day itinerary will guide you through the city’s historical landmarks, cultural gems, and even a few day trips to explore the surrounding beauty of Greece.

Day 1: Acropolis and Ancient Athens

Morning:

• Start your journey at the iconic Acropolis, the crown jewel of ancient Greece. Walk up the hill and explore the Parthenon, the Erechtheion, and the Temple of Athena Nike. Take in the panoramic views of Athens and visit early to avoid crowds.

• Next, head to the Acropolis Museum, where you can view artifacts from the Acropolis site, including the Parthenon frieze and the Caryatids from the Erechtheion.

Afternoon:

• For lunch, dine at Arcadia Restaurant, near the Acropolis Museum, for traditional Greek dishes like moussaka, souvlaki, and tzatziki.

• Explore the Ancient Agora, the heart of ancient Athens' social and political life. Visit the Temple of Hephaestus, one of the best-preserved temples, and the Stoa of Attalos, which now houses the Agora Museum.

• Continue to Hadrian’s Library and the Roman Agora, two key archaeological sites that offer more insight into Athens’ ancient past.

Evening:

• End your evening in the charming Plaka district, where you can dine at Yiasemi, a cozy taverna serving authentic Greek cuisine on the picturesque steps of Plaka’s narrow streets.

  
  

Day 2: Syntagma Square and National Garden

Morning:

• Begin at Syntagma Square, the central square of Athens. Watch the Changing of the Guard at the Hellenic Parliament, where the Evzones perform the ceremony in traditional dress.

• Take a stroll through the National Garden, a peaceful green space in the heart of the city, and visit the nearby Zappeion Hall.

• Continue to the Temple of Olympian Zeus, once the largest temple in Greece, and see the towering columns that still stand today. Nearby is Hadrian’s Arch, a monumental gateway built by Emperor Hadrian.

Afternoon:

• Have a healthy lunch at Avocado, a popular vegetarian spot near Syntagma Square.

• Explore the Benaki Museum, which showcases Greek art and history from ancient times to the present, including Byzantine art and modern Greek pieces.

• For a different cultural experience, visit the Museum of Cycladic Art, which focuses on the ancient Cycladic civilization and its art.

Evening:

• Hike or take a funicular up Lycabettus Hill, the highest point in Athens, for spectacular sunset views over the city.

• Dine at Orizontes Lycabettus, a restaurant perched atop the hill offering fine Greek cuisine and panoramic views.

  
  

Day 3: Athens Riviera or Piraeus

Option 1: Athens Riviera

• Morning: Head to the Athens Riviera, a short ride from the city center. Visit the beach towns of Glyfada or Vouliagmeni for a relaxing day by the sea.

• Afternoon: Have lunch at Ithaki Restaurant in Vouliagmeni, known for fresh seafood and stunning sea views. After lunch, visit Lake Vouliagmeni, a natural thermal lake perfect for a relaxing swim.

• Evening: Return to Athens and dine at Dionysos Zonar’s, a restaurant offering gourmet Greek dishes with spectacular views of the Acropolis illuminated at night.

Option 2: Piraeus

• Morning: Take a short metro ride to Piraeus, Athens’ historic port city. Stroll around Mikrolimano, a picturesque harbor filled with fishing boats and seafood restaurants.

• Afternoon: Dine at Varoulko Seaside, a Michelin-starred restaurant in Mikrolimano known for creative seafood dishes. Afterward, visit the Archaeological Museum of Piraeus to see ancient maritime artifacts.

• Evening: Return to Athens and explore the Psiri neighborhood, known for its vibrant nightlife. Enjoy dinner at Taverna tou Psiri, a traditional taverna with live music.

  
  

Day 4: Day Trip to Delphi or Cape Sounion

Option 1: Delphi

• Morning: Take a full-day trip to Delphi, about 2.5 hours from Athens. Visit the famous Temple of Apollo, the Treasury of the Athenians, and the Theater. Explore the Delphi Archaeological Museum to see artifacts like the Charioteer of Delphi.

• Evening: Return to Athens and dine at Diodos, a cozy restaurant near Monastiraki offering classic Greek dishes.

Option 2: Cape Sounion

• Morning: Visit Cape Sounion, about 1.5 hours from Athens, to see the Temple of Poseidon, perched on a cliff overlooking the Aegean Sea. The temple is one of Greece’s most iconic landmarks, especially at sunset.

• Afternoon: Have lunch at To Steki Tou Mina, a seaside taverna in Lavrio serving fresh seafood.

• Evening: Return to Athens and enjoy dinner at Aleria, a chic restaurant offering modern Greek cuisine in a stylish setting.

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Day 5: National Archaeological Museum and Monastiraki

Morning:

• Visit the National Archaeological Museum, home to one of the world’s most important collections of ancient Greek art, including the famous Mask of Agamemnon.

• Afterward, explore the Exarchia district, known for its alternative culture and street art. Stop for coffee at Kafe Exarcheia and soak up the local vibe.

Afternoon:

• Head to Monastiraki and browse the bustling flea market for antiques, jewelry, and souvenirs. Have lunch at Ta Karamanlidika tou Fani, a restaurant known for its meze and cured meats.

• Visit the Ancient Roman Agora and the Tower of the Winds, both located just a short walk from Monastiraki Square.

Evening:

• For your final dinner in Athens, indulge at Spondi, a Michelin-starred restaurant offering exquisite modern Greek and Mediterranean cuisine.

  
  

Tips:

• Public Transport: Athens has a well-connected public transport system, including metro, buses, and trams. Get a 3-day or 5-day tourist pass for unlimited travel.

• Acropolis Tickets: To skip long lines, buy a skip-the-line ticket or a combined ticket that includes other archaeological sites.

• Best Time to Visit: Visit Athens in spring (April-June) or autumn (September-October) for pleasant weather and fewer crowds.

• Greek Cuisine: Try local specialties like gyros, spanakopita, souvlaki, and sweet treats like baklava. Don’t forget to taste ouzo, Greece’s traditional anise-flavored spirit.