Ready to delve into the birthplace of democracy and a city that shaped the course of Western history? Athens beckons! This 3 day Athens itinerary will be your guide to unlocking the city’s ancient wonders, vibrant culture, and mouthwatering cuisine.
From exploring iconic landmarks like the Acropolis to getting lost in charming Plaka neighborhood, this itinerary promises an unforgettable Athenian adventure. So, pack your walking shoes, prep your appetite, and get ready to discover the magic of Athens in just 3 days!
Checkout my highlight reel here!
3 days in Athens Itinerary:
Day 1: The Acropolis & Ancient Greece
How to get to City Center from Athens Airport:
Begin your first day in Athens by taking the express X95 bus from the airport to Syntagma Square. This convenient transport gets you to the city center in about an hour for only 6 EUR.
Once in the heart of Athens, take a morning stroll through the National Garden. This oasis right in the city center has duck ponds, turtles, tortoises, exotic plants, and shady trails. One of my favorite spots was the Turtle Parthenon next to the bathroom in the park.
Next up is the famous Changing of the Guard ceremony. Head to Syntagma Square in front of the Parliament building to witness the Evzones, the elite presidential guards, perform their captivating hourly march in their traditional uniforms. Catching their synchronized footwork is a unique Athenian experience.
Pro Tip: While the ceremony occurs hourly, the most elaborate version with full traditional costumes takes place only on Sundays at 11:00 AM.
Conquering the Acropolis: In the afternoon, embark on a journey to the iconic Acropolis, the crown jewel of Athens. Maximize your sightseeing with the Acropolis & 6 Archaeological Sites Multipass, valid for 5 days and granting access to multiple locations. Purchase it in person at any of the 6 included sites for €30, or consider the €36 online option that allows you to reserve a specific time slot for visiting the Acropolis (recommended to avoid long lines).
How to Buy the Athens Combo Ticket:
- For in person sales, head over to a less crowded site like Aristotle’s School. This way, you can avoid the long lines often found at popular tourist spots.
- Reserve your Acropolis time slot and purchase the €36 Acropolis & 6 Archaeological Sites Multipass online here Aim for early mornings or evenings to avoid peak crowds and capture stunning sunset views!
- Booking online is especially recommended during peak season – even in October, reserving a morning slot a few days in advance might be necessary.
- Maximize your exploration with a free audio tour! Download Rick Steve’s Audio Tour Europe app for a self-guided walking tour of the Acropolis and the city.
Acropolis Hill & Plaka’s Delights: An Afternoon Adventure
Acropolis Ascent: Ascend the Acropolis citadel for a breathtaking close-up view of iconic landmarks. Marvel at the architectural wonders of the Parthenon, Erechtheum, Temple of Athena Nike, and the ancient Odeon of Herodes Atticus. Allocate at least 2 hours to explore these magnificent 5th-century BC monuments.
Plaka’s Culinary Charm: After conquering the Acropolis, delve into the charming streets of Plaka nestled at its base. Wander through the vibrant neighborhood and discover the perfect spot for your first taste of classic Greek cuisine. Indulge in traditional dishes like moussaka, souvlaki, Greek salad, and baklava. For budget-friendly yet delicious fare, consider Scholarhio restaurant.
Where to Stay in Athens
For backpackers in Athens, Mosaikon Hostel provides a social and budget-friendly haven. This centrally located hostel boasts easy access to must-see sights and trendy neighborhoods. Dorm options and a relaxed common area make it easy to meet fellow travelers, while a rooftop terrace with city views offers a perfect place to unwind after a day of exploration.
Day 2: Top Athens Archaeological Sites
On your second day, delve deeper into Athenian history with a visit to the Ancient Agora and Roman Agora, located at the foot of the Acropolis. These excavated marketplaces and architectural remnants were once the bustling heart of ancient Athenian life.
Utilize your Combo Ticket Athens to explore the Stoa of Attalos, now home to the Agora Museum. Here, you’ll discover fascinating artifacts and exhibits. Don’t miss the nearby Temple of Hephaestus, the most well-preserved temple in all of ancient Greece!
Following the Agora Trail: Continue your exploration with a visit to Hadrian’s Library, a sprawling complex that once housed scrolls and served as a center of learning. Just a short walk away stands the towering Temple of Olympian Zeus, a testament to perseverance – its construction spanned over 700 years, from the 6th century BC to the 2nd century AD! Snap a photo with these giant columns before heading to Kerameikos Cemetery.
Kerameikos Cemetery: A Glimpse into the Past : Immerse yourself in ancient Greek burial customs at Kerameikos Cemetery. Explore the impressive grave sculptures and monuments, offering a window into past rituals and traditions.
Sunset at Temple of Poseidon
As the day winds down, head out of the city to the Temple of Poseidon at Cape Sounion. Perched dramatically atop a cliff overlooking the Aegean Sea, this majestic temple offers stunning sunset views. Fun Fact: This 440 BC marvel shares the same architect as the Temple of Hephaestus at Athens’ Ancient Agora complex!
Reaching Cape Sounion from Athens:
Several options are available: catch a local bus or join a guided sunset tour. Consider a tour if you prefer a hassle-free experience and the convenience of a pre-arranged schedule, especially as local buses might have limited frequency. (Personally, I opted for a guided sunset tour to avoid any risk of missing the sunset due to bus timings.). For more options check out get your guide Athens!
Day 3: National Archaeological Museum and Sunset Views
Before leaving Athens, immerse yourself in the National Archaeological Museum and be mesmerized by its ancient Greek artifacts. Take in the Antikythera mechanism, Kouros statues, Mycenaean finds, and a replica of the famed Athena Parthenos. If you’re a Percy Jackson fan, this statues plays a huge role in the Heroes of Olympus series! Make sure to spend 2-3 hours to fully appreciate the world’s most impressive collections of Greek antiquities.
After the museum, head up Philopappos Hill and enjoy the breathtaking city vistas and views of the Acropolis. You can also visit Aristotle’s Lyceum and explore the charming streets of Thissio, Psirri, and Monastiraki.
Finally, savor your last Athens sunset! Watch the glowing Acropolis from Areopagus Hill as the city lights begin to twinkle in the twilight. With ancient ruins, great food, and vibrant neighborhoods, Athens offers an unforgettable travel experience steeped in culture and history.
Getting Around Athens Greece:
Exploring Athens is a breeze with its user-friendly metro system, connecting you to all the major sights and bustling neighborhoods. Here’s a quick guide to navigating Athens like a pro:
Metro Lines: Athens boasts three metro lines: Line 1 (green), Line 2 (red), and Line 3 (blue). These lines conveniently intersect at key stations like Monastiraki and Syntagma Square, allowing for easy transfers.
Purchasing Tickets: Tickets can be purchased at metro station vending machines or ticket booths. Here’s a breakdown of your options:
- Single Ticket (€1.20): Grants a single metro journey within a 1.5-hour window, including transfers.
- Ticket Packs (€5.70): Valid for 5 journeys within a period of 1.5 years (comes in other options)
- 24 Hour Ticket (€4.10): Provides unlimited travel on all public transportation (metro, bus, tram) within a calendar day.
- Multi-Day Ticket ( 5-Day: €8.20): Perfect for extended stays, offering unlimited travel on public transport for the chosen duration.
- Check their official site for all the options and up to date pricing
Ticket Validation: Remember to validate your ticket before entering the platform area by inserting it into the green or blue machines. Keep your validated ticket with you during your journey for potential inspections.
Tips for Using the Metro:
- Download a Metro Map: Having a map downloaded on your phone or a physical copy will help you plan your journeys efficiently.
- Signage & Announcements: Stations and trains have clear signage and announcements (often in English) indicating destinations and transfer points.
- Off-Peak Travel: Consider traveling during off-peak hours (early mornings or evenings) to avoid crowds, especially during peak tourist season.
Start Planning Your 3 Day Athens Itinerary Today!
This comprehensive itinerary has equipped you to conquer the top sights and hidden gems of Athens Greece in just 3 days! From the awe-inspiring Acropolis to the charming Plaka neighborhood, this Athens travel blog offers a roadmap for an unforgettable adventure.
Ready to Explore More Greece?
For those seeking to extend their Greek adventure, delve deeper into my travel blog for captivating experiences in Thessaloniki and the breathtaking monasteries of Meteora!
