4-Day Athens Itinerary: Exploring Historic Sites and Vibrant Culture

Day 1: Ancient Athens

Athens, Greece on May 5, 2025

9:00am

Acropolis Museum Visit

Explore the Acropolis Museum to view artifacts from the Acropolis site, providing context before visiting the hill itself. The museum offers insight into ancient Greek civilization.

EUR10, 2h0m

11:30am

Acropolis Hill Tour

Visit the Acropolis to see the Parthenon and other ancient temples. This UNESCO World Heritage site is central to Greek history and offers panoramic views of Athens.

EUR20, 2h0m

1:30pm

Lunch at Mani Mani

Enjoy traditional Greek cuisine at Mani Mani, located near Acropolis. Their fresh, local dishes and cozy atmosphere are perfect for a midday break.

EUR20, 1h0m

3:00pm

Wander Plaka District

Stroll through the charming Plaka neighborhood with its narrow streets, shops, and cafes. It’s an excellent area for shopping local crafts and soaking up local culture.

Free, 2h0m

6:00pm

Dinner at Strofi

Dine at Strofi, known for its rooftop dining overlooking the Acropolis. Their menu highlights modern Greek dishes paired with stunning views.

EUR30, 1h30m

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Day 2: Cultural Exploration

Athens, Greece on May 6, 2025

9:00am

Visit National Archaeological Museum

Discover Greece’s richest collection of artifacts from prehistoric to classical times. The museum opens at 8:00am and is ideal for history enthusiasts.

EUR12, 3h0m

12:30pm

Lunch at Central Market Area

Head to the Varvakios Agora (central market) and nearby tavernas to sample authentic and fresh Greek dishes in a bustling market atmosphere.

EUR15, 1h30m

2:30pm

Explore Monastiraki Flea Market

Explore the vibrant Monastiraki square and flea market for antiques, souvenirs, and street food. It’s a lively area great for walking and shopping.

Free, 2h0m

6:00pm

Dinner at Kuzina

Enjoy innovative Greek cuisine at Kuzina, located on Adrianou Street with views of the Acropolis, open till 11:30pm.

EUR35, 1h30m

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Day 3: City and Nature

Athens, Greece on May 7, 2025

8:30am

Breakfast at Meliartos

Start your day with Greek pastries and coffee at Meliartos, conveniently located near Syntagma Square.

EUR8, 1h0m

9:30am

Syntagma Square & Changing of the Guard

Visit Syntagma Square to witness the ceremonial changing of the guard at the Hellenic Parliament, a unique cultural experience occurring hourly.

Free, 1h0m

11:00am

National Garden Walk

Relax with a stroll through the nearby National Garden, enjoying the lush greenery amid the city, open all day for visitors.

Free, 1h0m

12:30pm

Lunch at Ergon House

Have lunch at Ergon House, serving modern Greek dishes made with quality local ingredients, located in central Athens.

EUR25, 1h30m

2:30pm

Climb Mount Lycabettus

Take a taxi or funicular railway to the summit of Mount Lycabettus for breathtaking views over Athens and the Aegean Sea. The funicular operates from 9am to midnight.

EUR7 (round trip funicular), 2h0m

7:00pm

Dinner at Orizontes Lycabettus

Dine at Orizontes, located on Mount Lycabettus, renowned for its elegant atmosphere and spectacular night views over Athens.

EUR40, 2h0m

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Day 4: Seaside Temple

Athens & Cape Sounion, Greece on May 8, 2025

8:00am

Breakfast at your hotel or nearby café

Fuel up early before a scenic trip to Cape Sounion for the Temple of Poseidon.

EUR10, 0h45m

8:45am

Travel to Cape Sounion

Take a taxi or organized tour (~70 km southeast), approximately 1.5-hour journey along the coastal road offering stunning sea views.

EUR50 (taxi) or EUR40 (tour), 1h30m

10:30am

Visit Temple of Poseidon

Explore the iconic Temple of Poseidon perched on the cliff overlooking the Aegean Sea, open from 8:00am to 7:00pm. It’s a breathtaking archaeological site rich with mythology.

EUR10, 1h30m