Athens 2 weeks

The iconic ancient citadel crowned by the Parthenon. Marvel at the Erechtheion, Propylaea, and the Temple of Athena Nike. The Acropolis introduced a daily visitor cap of 20,000 people in September 2023, requiring timed-entry tickets booked in advance via hhticket.gr or odysseus.culture.gr. A new accessible elevator and pathway ensure easier access for visitors with mobility needs.

• Book timed-entry tickets at least 1-2 days in advance, especially during peak season (April-October).
• Arrive early for your timed slot to avoid crowds and the midday heat.
• Consider the combined ticket option for access to multiple archaeological sites.

Located at the foot of the Acropolis, this modern museum houses artifacts found on the Acropolis, including the Caryatids and the Parthenon Marbles. Its design offers stunning views of the ancient site it complements.

• The museum is air-conditioned, offering a cool respite after visiting the Acropolis.
• Check for temporary exhibitions which may require separate tickets.

Athens' oldest neighborhood, a charming labyrinth of narrow streets, neoclassical architecture, and vibrant shops. It's the perfect place to wander, shop for souvenirs, and soak in the atmosphere.

• Look for small, family-run shops for authentic crafts and jewelry.
• Be aware of tourist traps; venture down side streets for more local experiences.

A traditional taverna in Plaka offering classic Greek dishes in a lively, old-world setting. Enjoy live music and authentic flavors.

• Reservations are recommended, especially on weekends.
• Try the moussaka or lamb kleftiko.

The heart of ancient Athenian public life, this vast archaeological site features the remarkably preserved Temple of Hephaestus and the Stoa of Attalos museum. It was the center of political, commercial, and social activity.

• Wear comfortable shoes as the terrain is uneven.
• The Stoa of Attalos houses a fascinating museum detailing daily life in ancient Athens.

A bustling hub known for its vibrant flea market, souvenir shops, and street performers. The square offers a lively atmosphere and connects to various historical sites.

• Bargaining is expected at the flea market.
• Look for unique handmade items and vintage goods.

Once a grand public building commissioned by Emperor Hadrian, this archaeological site features impressive ruins including a colonnade and a rectangular courtyard. It served as a center for learning and culture.

• Often included in the combined ticket for Athenian archaeological sites.
• Imagine the scrolls and scholars that once filled this space.

Perched atop a hotel in Monastiraki Square, this popular bar offers breathtaking panoramic views of the Acropolis and the city. It's an ideal spot for evening drinks.

• Arrive early to secure a good spot with a view.
• Cocktails are pricey, but the view is arguably worth it.

One of the world's most important museums, housing an extensive collection of ancient Greek art and artifacts from prehistory to late antiquity. Highlights include the Antikythera Mechanism and the Mask of Agamemnon.

• Allocate at least 3 hours to properly explore the vast collections.
• Focus on specific wings or periods if time is limited.

A classic Athenian kafenio near the museum, offering traditional Greek coffee, pastries, and light snacks in a local setting. A great spot to rest and people-watch.

• Try a Greek coffee (ellinikos kafes) or a freddo espresso.
• Perfect for a quick, authentic snack.

Home to an impressive collection of Greek and European art, with a significant focus on post-Byzantine and modern Greek painters. The museum reopened after extensive renovations in March 2021.

• Explore the works of renowned Greek artists like Parthenis and Gaitis.
• Check their website for current special exhibitions.

Consistently ranked among the world's best bars, The Clumsies offers innovative cocktails in a stylish, speakeasy-inspired setting. It's a must-visit for cocktail enthusiasts.

• Reservations are highly recommended.
• Be adventurous and try their signature or experimental cocktails.

The historic stadium that hosted the first modern Olympic Games in 1896, built entirely of marble. It's a symbol of athletic achievement and ancient tradition.

• Walk the track and imagine the roar of the crowds.
• Visit the small museum inside for Olympic memorabilia.

The colossal ruins of what was once the largest temple in Greece, dedicated to Zeus. Only a few towering columns remain, but they offer a sense of its former grandeur.

• Best viewed in the morning or late afternoon light.
• Often included in the combined ticket.

A modern marina on the Athenian Riviera, offering a pleasant promenade, green spaces, and sea views. It's a great spot for a leisurely stroll by the sea.

• Enjoy the sea breeze and watch the yachts.
• Plenty of cafes and ice cream parlors available.

A stylish beachfront cafe and restaurant in Glyfada, offering modern Mediterranean cuisine with excellent sea views. Perfect for a relaxed dinner by the water.

• Book a table with a sea view.
• Offers a good range of seafood and international dishes.

This museum showcases Greek culture from prehistory to the present day, featuring an eclectic collection of art, costumes, ceramics, and Islamic art. It provides a comprehensive overview of Greek heritage.

• Don't miss the stunning collection of traditional Greek costumes.
• The museum cafe offers a pleasant break with Acropolis views.

Athens' vibrant central market, a bustling place for fresh produce, meat, fish, and local delicacies. It's a sensory experience and a great spot to observe local life.

• Visit the meat and fish sections for the most lively atmosphere.
• Sample local olives, cheeses, and honey.

Dedicated to the ancient cultures of the Aegean, with a significant focus on Cycladic art from the 3rd millennium BC, known for its minimalist marble figurines. It also houses Greek and Cypriot antiquities.

• Admire the serene and abstract beauty of the Cycladic figurines.
• The museum often hosts excellent temporary exhibitions.

A modern Greek restaurant in a beautiful neoclassical building, offering creative interpretations of traditional dishes with a focus on fresh ingredients. Known for its elegant ambiance.

• Reservations are strongly advised.
• Try their contemporary take on Greek mezedes.

The highest point in central Athens, offering unparalleled 360-degree views of the city, the Acropolis, and the Saronic Gulf. You can hike up or take the funicular.

• Visit at sunrise or sunset for the most magical views.
• The funicular is an easy option, but the walk offers great photo opportunities.

An upscale district known for its designer boutiques, art galleries, and chic cafes. It's a stylish area for window shopping and enjoying a sophisticated atmosphere.

• Explore the side streets for charming cafes and galleries.
• A good place to find high-quality souvenirs.

This museum, housed in a beautifully restored industrial building, focuses on urban and folk art, crafts, and everyday life in modern Greece. It offers a different perspective from the ancient history museums.

• Check for temporary exhibitions which often highlight contemporary artists.
• Appreciate the adaptive reuse of the building.

A popular organic bistro in Kolonaki offering healthy and delicious dishes made with fresh, local ingredients. It has a relaxed yet chic ambiance.

• Great for brunch, lunch, or dinner.
• They offer vegetarian, vegan, and gluten-free options.

A UNESCO World Heritage site, Delphi was considered the center of the ancient world and home to the Oracle. Explore the Temple of Apollo, the Treasury of the Athenians, and the ancient theater.

• Wear sturdy shoes and bring water, as the site is extensive and uphill.
• The views of the surrounding mountains are spectacular.

Adjacent to the archaeological site, this museum houses important artifacts found at Delphi, including the Charioteer of Delphi and the Sphinx of Naxos.

• The museum complements the site visit perfectly.
• Don't miss the statue of Antinous.

A picturesque mountain village near Delphi, known for its traditional architecture, artisanal crafts, and stunning mountain scenery. It's a charming place for lunch or a coffee.

• Sample local cheeses and honey.
• Browse the shops for hand-woven textiles and ceramics.

Located in Piraeus, this museum chronicles Greece's rich maritime history, featuring ship models, historical artifacts, and navigational instruments. It offers insight into the country's seafaring legacy.

• Explore the detailed ship models.
• Understand the importance of the sea to Greek identity.

A picturesque small harbor in Piraeus lined with seafood restaurants and cafes. It's a charming spot for lunch with views of colorful fishing boats.

• Enjoy fresh seafood by the water.
• A more relaxed atmosphere than the main port areas.

A major indoor sports arena in Piraeus, known for its distinctive architecture. While primarily a sports venue, its exterior is notable.

• Admire the unique dome structure.
• Check if any events are scheduled during your visit.

A highly-rated restaurant in Piraeus known for its contemporary Greek cuisine and excellent service. Offers a refined dining experience.

• Reservations are recommended.
• A good choice for a special dinner in Piraeus.

Housed in the magnificent former residence of Heinrich Schliemann, this museum displays a vast collection of coins, medals, and ancient weights from Greece and around the world. The building itself is a work of art.

• The architecture of the Iliou Melathron is as impressive as the collection.
• Learn about the economic history through coinage.

A bohemian and intellectual hub known for its vibrant street art, independent bookstores, cafes, and alternative atmosphere. It's a dynamic area with a strong local character.

• Keep an eye out for impressive murals and graffiti.
• Explore the unique shops and cafes.

Located within the Ancient Agora site, this museum is housed in the reconstructed Stoa of Attalos. It displays artifacts found in the Agora, illustrating daily life in ancient Athens.

• This museum is often included with the Agora entrance ticket.
• Provides context for the Agora's historical significance.

A popular taverna in Exarcheia offering traditional Greek mezedes and main courses in a lively, authentic setting. Known for its good food and value.

• A great place to sample a variety of Greek small dishes.
• Expect a bustling atmosphere.

Focusing on contemporary Greek and international art, MOCAG showcases a dynamic range of exhibitions. It's a key institution for modern artistic expression in Athens.

• Check their schedule for temporary exhibitions and events.
• Offers a contrast to the city's ancient historical sites.

A rocky outcrop near the Acropolis offering excellent views of the Agora and the city. It's historically significant as the seat of the ancient Athenian court.

• The smooth rock surface can be slippery, especially after rain.
• A great spot for sunset photos.

A tiny, charming enclave on the slopes of the Acropolis, designed to resemble a Cycladic island village. Its narrow, winding paths and white-washed houses offer a tranquil escape.

• Feels like stepping into a different world.
• Respect residents' privacy as this is a residential area.

A unique delicatessen and mezedopoleio near the Central Market, specializing in cured meats and traditional Greek small plates. It offers a gourmet experience in a cozy setting.

• Try their famous 'pastourma' (spiced cured beef).
• Excellent selection of Greek wines.

Perched dramatically on a cliff overlooking the Aegean Sea, this ancient temple dedicated to Poseidon offers breathtaking views. It's a iconic sunset spot, but also stunning in daylight.

• The drive along the coast is scenic.
• Be prepared for strong winds.
• Lord Byron was inspired by this site.

A popular sandy beach on the way back from Sounion, offering clear waters and amenities. It's a great place to relax and swim.

• Rent sunbeds and umbrellas for comfort.
• Enjoy a refreshing swim in the Aegean.

A unique thermal spring lake with mineral-rich waters, set in a picturesque cave-like environment. It's a tranquil spot for a dip and relaxation.

• The water is warm year-round.
• Offers a different kind of swimming experience.

A Michelin-starred seafood restaurant in Mikrolimano, Piraeus, offering exquisite dishes with stunning sea views. A luxurious dining experience.

• Reservations are essential, often weeks in advance.
• Indulge in their tasting menus.

Housed in the former villa of Duchess of Plaisance, this museum boasts an exceptional collection of Byzantine art, icons, mosaics, and religious artifacts spanning centuries.

• The collection offers a deep dive into a significant period of Greek history.
• Don't miss the beautiful courtyard.

The ancient cemetery of Athens, featuring impressive funerary sculptures and ruins of the city walls. It offers a poignant glimpse into ancient Athenian burial customs and art.

• Look for the striking marble stelae and sarcophagi.
• The site is less crowded than the Acropolis.

Explore Athens' vibrant street art scene with a guided tour or self-guided exploration through neighborhoods like Exarcheia, Psiri, and Gazi. Discover dynamic murals and political graffiti.

• Athens has some of the most impressive street art in Europe.
• Consider a guided tour for deeper insights into the artists and messages.

A trendy bar in the Metaxourgeio area known for its unique cocktails and lively atmosphere. It's a popular spot for locals and visitors seeking a vibrant nightlife experience.

• Arrive early as it gets crowded.
• Enjoy their creative drink menu.

A guided culinary tour focusing on the vibrant Central Market, sampling local produce, cheeses, olives, and street food. A delicious way to experience Athenian gastronomy.

• Come hungry! This is a tasting-intensive tour.
• Learn about Greek ingredients and culinary traditions.

A tiny, charming enclave on the slopes of the Acropolis, designed to resemble a Cycladic island village. Its narrow, winding paths and white-washed houses offer a tranquil escape.

• Feels like stepping into a different world.
• Respect residents' privacy as this is a residential area.

A beautiful public garden in the heart of Athens, offering a peaceful green oasis with shady paths, ancient ruins, a small zoo, and a pond. It's a perfect spot for a leisurely stroll.

• Escape the city heat under the trees.
• Look for the sundial and the small botanical museum.

A traditional ouzeri in the Psiri neighborhood, serving authentic mezedes and ouzo in a lively, authentic atmosphere. A quintessential Greek dining experience.

• Pair your food with a glass of ouzo.
• Great for sharing plates with friends.

Athens' premier shopping street, featuring a wide range of international and Greek brands, from high-end fashion to more affordable options. It's ideal for last-minute souvenir shopping.

• Look for Greek leather goods and local designer boutiques.
• Can get very crowded, especially on weekends.

The central square of Athens, home to the Hellenic Parliament and the Monument to the Unknown Soldier. Witness the Changing of the Guard ceremony by the Evzones.

• The Changing of the Guard occurs hourly, with a more elaborate ceremony on Sundays at 11 AM.
• A good place to get a feel for the city's pulse.

A charming cafe near Syntagma Square, offering a relaxed atmosphere for a final coffee or light meal before heading to the airport. It's a good place to reflect on your trip.

• Enjoy a traditional Greek pastry.
• Conveniently located for last-minute sightseeing.

Athens' main international airport, serving as your departure point. Ensure ample time for check-in and security.

• Consider the express bus or metro for transport to the airport.
• Check flight status in advance.