Athens is a lot of things at once: an ancient city, a modern capital, a hot, dense and noisy place with some of the most important ruins in the world sitting in the middle of it. The Acropolis rises above the rooftops from almost everywhere, and you keep catching sight of it.
It rewards a slow approach. See the big sights in the cooler hours, eat long lunches, and spend the evenings in the old neighbourhoods and on rooftops watching the light on the hill.
How many days: 3
Three days is enough for the Acropolis, the main museums and a couple of neighbourhoods. A fourth day gives you room for a trip out of the city.
The Temple of Poseidon at Cape Sounion is a popular half-day trip, and the nearby islands are reachable by ferry. Check the timetables and plan an early start.
What to do in Athens
- Visit the Acropolis early
- The Parthenon and the other temples sit on a rocky hill above the city. Go as early as you can, before the heat and the crowds. Check the official site for current ticket arrangements.
- See the Acropolis Museum
- A modern museum at the foot of the hill that holds finds from the site. It makes a good cool break after the climb.
- Walk through the Ancient Agora
- The old marketplace of the city, with a well-preserved temple and shaded paths. It gives a good sense of ancient daily life.
- Wander the Plaka
- The old district below the Acropolis, with narrow streets, shops and tavernas. Busy by day, and prettier in the evening.
- Climb Lycabettus Hill
- The highest point in the city, with views across to the sea. Go up for sunset.
- Browse Monastiraki
- A lively square and flea market district, good for people-watching and souvenirs.
- Visit the National Archaeological Museum
- One of the world's major collections of ancient Greek art and artefacts. It is a good rainy-day or midday option, and big enough to take a few hours.
- Spend a day on the coast
- The Athens coast has beaches within reach by tram from the centre. It is a good way to cool off after days of sightseeing.
What to eat and drink
- Souvlaki and gyros
- Grilled meat on a skewer or in a pita with tomato, onion and sauce. The standard cheap lunch.
- Greek salad
- Tomato, cucumber, olives, onion and a block of feta, with good olive oil. Simple and good in summer.
- Moussaka
- A baked dish of aubergine, minced meat and béchamel. A traditional taverna main.
- Meze
- Small dishes to share. A good way to try several things, ideally with a glass of wine or ouzo.
- Spanakopita
- A flaky pastry filled with spinach and cheese, sold in bakeries.
- Loukoumades
- Small fried dough balls drizzled with honey. A popular dessert and street snack.
- Greek coffee and frappé
- Traditional Greek coffee is served in a small cup, and frappé is an iced instant coffee that has become a local summer staple. Both are part of the cafe routine.
Getting around
The historic centre is walkable, but pavements are uneven and the heat is real. Take water and sun protection in summer.
The metro is clean and quick, and some stations contain archaeological displays. Check the transport operator's website for current tickets and passes.
From the airport, the metro and an express bus both run to the centre. Taxis are available, and it helps to confirm how fares work before you travel.
Good to know
- Summer is very hot. Plan sights for early morning and late afternoon, and rest at midday.
- Many archaeological sites close early in the afternoon. Check the official site before you plan a visit.
- Wear flat, grippy shoes. The marble paths at the Acropolis are polished and slippery.
- Street signs and metro stations are in Greek and English. A few letters of the Greek alphabet help with maps.
- Opening hours at sites and shops can differ on Sundays and public holidays. Check before you plan around them.