Visit Athens' most iconic landmark, the Acropolis, and discover the ancient temples of the Parthenon, the Erectheion, and the Temple of Athena Nike. Continue your day at the Acropolis Museum, where you'll see fascinating archaeological finds from the Acropolis and the surrounding area.
Enjoy a leisurely morning at the Athens National Gardens, a large and peaceful park in the heart of the city. Afterward, head to Syntagma Square, the central square of Athens, and see the Changing of the Guard ceremony outside the Parliament building.
Go back in time and visit the beautifully restored Panathenaic Stadium, which was used for the first modern Olympic Games in 1896. Afterward, take a cable car up to the top of Mount Lycabettus, the highest hill in Athens, and enjoy spectacular views of the city.
Spend a day outside the city and visit the Attica Zoological Park, which has over 350 species of animals from all over the world. Afterward, head to the beautiful Vouliagmeni Beach, with its crystal-clear waters and lovely golden sand. Relax and soak up the sun, or go for a swim and cool off in the Aegean Sea.
Most of the locations can be reached by walking or using public transportation. Taxis are also readily available and affordable, with fares starting at €3.50. Consider purchasing an Athens City Pass or Hop-On Hop-Off Bus Pass for convenience and cost savings. Expect to pay around €10-€15 for a one-way ticket from Athens International Airport to the city center.
If you have more time, visit the Ancient Agora, the Temple of Olympian Zeus, or the Archaeological Museum of Athens. If you have less time, consider skipping the Attica Zoological Park and spending more time at the beach.
Athens International Airport (ATH) is located 33 km southeast of Athens city center. It's the largest airport in Greece, with direct flights to and from many international destinations. The airport has plenty of shops, restaurants, and services, as well as good public transportation links to the city center.