Athens, Greece-5-day-itinerary

Day 1: Acropolis and Surroundings

  • Morning: Start your day at the iconic Acropolis of Athens, a UNESCO World Heritage Site. Explore the Parthenon, Propylaea, Erechtheion, and Temple of Athena Nike.
  • Lunch: Head to Ta Karamanlidika Tou Fani for traditional Greek cuisine and delicious souvlaki.
  • Afternoon: Visit the nearby Acropolis Museum, which houses a vast collection of artifacts found on the site.
  • Evening: Take a stroll through the charming neighborhood of Monastiraki, known for its lively atmosphere, street performers, and souvenir shops.

Accommodation Suggestions:

  • Budget: City Circus Athens
  • Mid-range: Hotel Plaka
  • Luxury: Hotel Grande Bretagne

Day 2: Ancient Agora and Thissio

  • Morning: Explore the Ancient Agora, a historical site filled with ancient ruins, including the Temple of Hephaestus.
  • Lunch: Enjoy traditional Greek cuisine at Taverna tou Psara.
  • Afternoon: Visit the nearby Monument of Lysicrates and take in the stunning views from Thissio Hill.
  • Evening: Watch a traditional Greek dance show at Dora Stratou Theater.

Day 3: Museums and National Garden

  • Morning: Visit the National Archaeological Museum, home to over 11,000 exhibits showcasing Greece’s rich history.
  • Lunch: Relax in the beautiful National Garden, where you can find cafes and restaurants serving light meals.
  • Afternoon: Explore the Benaki Museum, which features an impressive collection of Greek art and artifacts.
  • Evening: Enjoy a cocktail at The Clumsies rooftop bar, offering stunning views of the city.

Day 4: Piraeus and Coastline

  • Morning: Take a day trip to Piraeus, Athens’ port city. Visit the Maritime Museum and explore the vibrant waterfront.
  • Lunch: Savor fresh seafood at Ta Kavouria Tou Fani.
  • Afternoon: Relax on Alimos Beach, one of Athens’ most popular beaches.
  • Evening: Enjoy a sunset dinner at Asteras Beach Restaurant.

Day 5: Flea Markets and Mount Lycabettus

  • Morning: Explore the lively Monastiraki Flea Market, where you can find unique souvenirs and antiques.
  • Lunch: Visit Louizidou, a historic bakery serving delicious Greek pastries.
  • Afternoon: Hike up Mount Lycabettus, offering breathtaking views of Athens.
  • Evening: Enjoy a farewell dinner at Varoulko Seaside Restaurant.

Things to Know

  • Be prepared for crowds and long lines at popular attractions.
  • Wear comfortable shoes for exploring the city’s hills and ancient ruins.
  • Try to avoid visiting during peak summer months (July-August) when temperatures can be extremely hot.
  • Don’t forget to try traditional Greek cuisine, including moussaka, souvlaki, and baklava.

Transportation

  • Metro: An efficient way to navigate the city, with stations near most attractions.
  • Bus: A convenient option for shorter journeys or when the metro is not available.
  • Taxi: Always negotiate the fare beforehand, as they can be more expensive than expected.
  • Walking: The best way to explore Athens’ charming neighborhoods and historic sites.

Tips

  • Learn a few basic Greek phrases, such as “Γεια σας” (geia sas) for “cheers” and “Ευχαριστώ” (efharistó) for “thank you”.
  • Be respectful of ancient ruins and historical sites.
  • Try to avoid visiting during peak tourist season (June-August) when prices tend to be higher.
  • Don’t forget to bargain at flea markets and souvenir shops!

Other Things of Interest

  • Athens Festival: A summer festival featuring performances, concerts, and exhibitions.
  • Greek Islands: Consider taking a day trip or longer excursion to nearby islands, such as Aegina, Hydra, or Mykonos.
  • Day Trips: Explore the surrounding countryside, including ancient Corinth, Nafplio, or Delphi.