6-day Itinerary to Explore the Best of Athens, Greece
Day 1: Visit the Acropolis Museum, the stunning monument that houses some of the most exceptional artifacts and sculptures from ancient Greek history. Also, explore the Parthenon, a UNESCO World Heritage site lying on the Acropolis Hill with breathtaking views of the city. Finish your day by strolling through the vibrant neighborhoods of Monastiraki and Plaka, where you can enjoy authentic Greek cuisine and find incredible souvenirs to take home.
Day 2: Start your day visiting the ancient ruins of the Temple of Olympian Zeus, and then head to the Panathenaic Stadium, the first modern Olympic Stadium in history. End your day admiring the sunset from Mount Lycabettus, for a magical experience overlooking the city of Athens. Don't forget to bring your camera!
Day 3: Experience the ancient agora of Athens, where the marketplace and the politics of the city thrived. Visit the Temple of Hephaestus and Plaka's streets, known for its captivating charm and picturesque alleys. Wrap up your day at Syntagma Square watching the changing of the guard ceremony.
Day 4: Take a day trip to the Aegean sea and visit Hydra Island, famous for its mesmerizing landscapes, crystal clear waters, and stunning architecture.
Day 5: Start your day at the National Archaeological Museum, which boasts an extensive collection of treasures and discoveries from ancient Athens. In the evening, visit Gazi, Athens' quirkiest neighborhood with fantastic nightlife and an electric atmosphere.
Day 6: Visit the Temple of Poseidon at Cape Sounion, one of the most picturesque destinations in the region, and watch the sun setting for a truly unforgettable experience.
Time and Costs Estimates
Acropolis Museum and Parthenon: (3 hours, €20)
Temple of Olympian Zeus and Panathenaic Stadium: (2 hours, €10)
Ancient Agora and Syntagma Square: (3 hours, €15)
Hydra Island Day Trip: (8 hours, €60)
National Archaeological Museum and Gazi: (4 hours, €25)
Temple of Poseidon at Cape Sounion: (4 hours, €30)
Total Estimated Costs: €160
Transportation
It is easy to explore Athens on foot or using public transportation, such as the metro, bus, and tram. To get from Athens International Airport to the city center, a taxi or private transfer will cost approximately €38-€50 and take around 40 minutes.
Useful Tips
If you have more time, you can visit the Ancient Theatre of Epidaurus or Delphi, a unique experience where you can discover the history of ancient Greek oracle. On the other hand, if you have less time, we suggest choosing some of the main attractions in the city, such as the Acropolis, the National Archaeological Museum, and a trip to Hydra Island, as they are not to be missed.
Airports
Athens International Airport Eleftherios Venizelos (ATH) is located approximately 33 km southeast of Athens' city center. It is well-connected to the city by public transportation, including bus, metro, and taxi, and the average travel time from the airport to the city center is around 40 minutes.