Athens-6-day-itinerary

Day 1: Arrival and Exploring Monastiraki

Morning

  • Arrive at Athens Eleftherios Venizelos International Airport
  • Take the Metro (Line 3) to Monastiraki Station ( approx. 45 minutes, €10)
  • Check-in at Hotel Plaka or similar

Afternoon

  • Visit the Monastiraki Flea Market (Sunday only) for a unique shopping experience
  • Explore the lively streets of Monastiraki, filled with souvenir shops, cafes, and street food
  • Stop by the Panathenaic Stadium, the site of the first modern Olympic Games in 1896

Evening

  • Enjoy traditional Greek cuisine at Ta Karamanlidika Tou Fani
  • Explore the nightlife of Monastiraki, with its many bars and clubs

Day 2: Ancient Athens

Morning

  • Visit the Acropolis, the iconic citadel that sits atop a hill in the heart of Athens (€20)
  • Explore the Parthenon, a masterpiece of ancient Greek architecture
  • Stop by the Acropolis Museum to learn more about the history and significance of the site

Afternoon

  • Wander through the ancient streets of the Ancient Agora, once the heart of Athens’ civic life
  • Visit the Temple of Hephaestus, one of the best-preserved ancient temples in Greece

Evening

  • Enjoy a traditional Greek dinner at Strofi tou Psirri
  • Watch the Changing of the Guard ceremony at the Tomb of the Unknown Soldier (Syntagma Square)

Day 3: Museums and Galleries

Morning

  • Visit the National Archaeological Museum, home to some of Greece’s most important artifacts (€12)
  • Explore the Museum of Cycladic Art, featuring a collection of ancient Greek art (€7)

Afternoon

  • Stop by the Benaki Museum, showcasing Greek history and culture from prehistory to modern times (€9)
  • Visit the National Gallery, featuring an extensive collection of Greek art from the 14th to the 20th century (€6)

Evening

  • Enjoy a drink at The Clumsies, a popular bar with a great selection of cocktails

Day 4: Day Trip to Sounion

Morning

  • Take a day trip to Sounion, a picturesque town on the coast ( approx. 1 hour by car or bus, €10-20)
  • Visit the Temple of Poseidon, perched on a cliff overlooking the Aegean Sea

Afternoon

  • Enjoy lunch at one of Sounion’s many seafood restaurants
  • Relax on the beach or take a scenic coastal walk

Evening

  • Return to Athens and enjoy dinner at Ouzeri tou Laki, serving traditional Greek cuisine with a modern twist

Day 5: Street Art and Alternative Scene

Morning

  • Explore the vibrant street art scene in the Psirri neighborhood
  • Visit the Street Art Festival, featuring works by local and international artists (free admission)

Afternoon

  • Stop by the Athens Indie Market, a platform for independent designers and artisans (free admission)
  • Check out the alternative scene at Gazi, a former industrial area turned nightlife hub

Evening

  • Enjoy dinner at Bios Athens, a popular spot for vegans and vegetarians
  • Catch a live music or theater performance at one of Gazi’s many venues

Day 6: Last Day in Athens

Morning

  • Visit the Central Market, a bustling hub of fresh produce, meats, and seafood (free admission)
  • Explore the charming neighborhood of Kolonaki, with its upscale boutiques and cafes

Afternoon

  • Stop by the Museum of Greek Gastronomy, showcasing the country’s rich culinary heritage (€5)
  • Enjoy a farewell lunch at Alati, serving modern Greek cuisine with a focus on local ingredients

Evening

  • Spend your last evening in Athens exploring the city’s many neighborhoods and taking in the sights and sounds one last time

Practical Information

  • Transportation: The Metro is an efficient way to get around Athens (€1-10). Taxis are also widely available.
  • Accommodation: Hotel Plaka offers comfortable rooms starting at €60 per night. Book in advance for better rates.
  • Food and Drink: Try traditional Greek cuisine, including souvlaki, moussaka, and Greek salads. Don’t forget to try a classic Greek coffee or frappé!
  • Safety: Athens is generally a safe city, but take normal precautions to protect yourself and your belongings.
  • Tips:
    • Learn some basic Greek phrases, such as “Γεια σας” (geia sas) for “cheers!”
    • Be prepared for crowds and lines at popular attractions
    • Don’t forget sunscreen and a hat during the summer months

I hope you enjoy your trip to Athens!