Athens, Greece

Things to do

3 days in Athens

Day 1

  1. MorningVisit the Acropolis right at opening time to avoid heat and crowds.
  2. AfternoonVisit the Acropolis Museum, then walk through the Plaka and Anafiotika lanes.
  3. EveningHave dinner in Psyrri, or watch the sunset from Lycabettus Hill.

Day 2

Visit Cape Sounion, or take a ferry to the island of Hydra.

Day 3

Explore the Ancient Agora and the Temple of Hephaestus, browse the Monastiraki flea market, and end with dinner in Koukaki below the Acropolis.

What to eat

Souvlaki, spanakopita and loukoumades with honey.

Local tips

Make the most of Athens

Beat the crowds

Be at the Acropolis at opening time or come in the last hours before closing. In summer, avoid the midday heat completely.

Best photo spot

Filopappou Hill and Lycabettus Hill give the best views of the Acropolis. Areopagus rock, right next to it, is great at sunset.

Getting there

The metro runs from the airport to the centre. The old town is best on foot.

Don't miss nearby

Cape Sounion, with the Temple of Poseidon above the sea, about an hour away. Go for sunset.

Good to know

Book an Acropolis ticket with a time slot. There is a combined ticket for several ancient sites in the centre. Wear shoes with grip: the marble is slippery.

Secret spots

3 secret spots near Athens

Our most hidden places around Athens: fewer people, same wow. Unlock them with a route in Google Maps and a PDF guide of Athens to take with you.

45 km away
74 km away
94 km away
Unlock the secret spots · €2.99+ VAT · one payment, valid for a year

Plan your visit

Getting to Athens

Getting there

  • Athens Airport (ATH)20 km away

The centre is best explored on foot. Distances are in a straight line.

At a glance

Best timeAll year
TypeCity
Good forOld towns & architecture, Food
Getting thereCar or public transport
Stay2 nights
CountryGreece

Questions

Athens: good to know

Is Athens worth visiting?

Yes, especially if you like historic old towns and food. The Acropolis above lively neighbourhoods full of tavernas.

How many days do you need in Athens?

Plan 2 nights. Our free 3-day plan above shows how to spend your time.

When is the best time to visit Athens?

You can visit all year. Be at the Acropolis at opening time or come in the last hours before closing. In summer, avoid the midday heat completely.

How do you get to Athens?

The nearest airport is Athens Airport (ATH), about 20 km away. The metro runs from the airport to the centre. The old town is best on foot.

What is there to see near Athens?

Nearby hidden places include Delphi (121 km), Monemvasia (156 km) and Mount Pelion (168 km).

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