Start your trip with a visit to the Acropolis. This ancient citadel contains several awe-inspiring historical monuments, such as the Parthenon and the temple of Athena Nike.
Spend the day at the National Archaeological Museum, which is home to an extensive collection of artwork and artifacts from ancient Greece. Don't miss the Antikythera mechanism, a complex ancient Greek astronomical calculator.
Explore the charming historic district of Plaka, which boasts narrow streets and traditional architecture. This area also offers numerous museums and ancient sites, such as the Roman Agora and the Tower of the Winds.
Visit the Panathenaic Stadium, an incredible marble stadium that hosted the first modern Olympics in 1896. You can even run a lap around the track!
Take a cable car or hike to the top of Mount Lycabettus for stunning views of the city. There's also a cafe and restaurant at the summit where you can enjoy a meal with a panoramic view.
Take a day trip to the picturesque port of Piraeus, which has a lively seafood market and a charming marina. You can also visit the National Archaeological Museum of Piraeus or take a ferry to the nearby islands.
End your trip at the bustling Syntagma Square, the heart of Athens. This area is home to numerous shops, restaurants, and cafes. Don't miss the changing of the guard ceremony in front of the Parliament Building.
While Athens has an extensive public transportation system, including metro, bus, and tram networks, it's also easy to explore on foot. Taxis and ridesharing services are also readily available, although they can be expensive during peak hours. Most attractions are within a short distance of each other, and a single metro ticket costs €1.50 and is valid for 90 minutes.
If you have more time, consider taking a day trip to the nearby island of Aegina or visiting the ancient city of Delphi. If you have less time, skip Piraeus and spend an extra day in Athens exploring the neighborhoods of Psirri and Monastiraki. Don't forget to sample some delicious Greek cuisine, such as souvlaki, moussaka, and dakos!
Athens International Airport (ATH), also known as Eleftherios Venizelos, is located approximately 20km east of the city center. It is easily accessible by metro, bus, or taxi.