Two Days in Athens? Here's How To Spend Them
Athens is a city built around ancient history and incredible archeological sites.
There is so much to see and do here, but it’s possible to see it all in just a few days in case you want to save time for the islands.
Here are my tips to help guide you if you only have a short amount of time in Athens.
Where To Stay
If you’re deciding where to book your hotel, I recommend booking near Monastiraki Square. It is always happening here and it is easy to get to all of the best sights from the square.
Some other areas that are nice to stay in are Syntagma, the heart of modern Athens, or Plaka, the oldest neighborhood in Athens. Some areas I would avoid are Omonia and Psyrri. While Psyrri is known for its trendy nightlife, I think staying in the main downtown areas of the city is best and cleanest.
Day 1: Exploring the Streets of Athens
Enjoy a Greek Breakfast
The best way to start your day in Athens is with a fresh pastry and a coffee. There are cafes on every street serving delicious cappuccinos and savory pastries. My favorites are the Spanakopita (spinach pie) and Zambonopita (ham & cheese pie).
Monastiraki Flea Market
Check out this flea market right by the Monastiraki metro station. It’s the perfect place to find antiques and souvenir gifts. It’s open daily from 10am – 10pm.
National Archeological Museum
This museum is one of the most famous in Greece, and is home to many rich ancient artifacts found from archeological sites all over Greece. I recommend setting aside 2-3 hours to explore all of the exhibits in the museum.
Cost: 6 euro (Nov. – Mar.) | 12 euro (Apr. – Oct.)
Shop Ermou Street
If you love to shop, you will find all of the best European brands on this street. The section of Ermou Street between Monastiraki Square and Syntagma Square is home to endless clothing stores with tons of lively restaurants nearby.
Sunset at Lycabettus Hill
Mount Lycabettus is the highest point in the center of Athens, and is the most beautiful sunset spot in my opinion. Take in the beauty of the city and the Acropolis from this overlook. You can get here by taking the line 3 metro to Evangelismos and take the cable car up, or you can take a taxi or walk up.
The cable car is located at the corner of Aristippou and Plutarch Streets and costs 10 euros roundtrip.
watch the changing of the guards
Every hour in front of the Hellenic Parliament in Syntagma, the changing of the guards occurs.
The soldiers of the Presidential Guard carry a historical and honorable role by guarding and staying perfectly still for an hour before changing guards. The process of changing guards is conducted in pairs so the moves of the soldiers can be perfectly coordinated.
Enjoy a Rooftop View
Enjoy a view of the Acropolis and the bustling city below while you enjoy a nice rooftop dinner. My favorite rooftop is 360 Cocktail Bar, the atmosphere is unmatched, and the drinks are delicious!
Prices at rooftops are about the same as a typical restaurant in the U.S.
Day 2: Visit the Historical Sites
Acropolis
Start your daily early and head to the Acropolis before the crowds arrive. The site opens at 8am, and I recommend going as close to this time as you can to have a crowd-free experience. It will be packed by 10am. You will need to purchase tickets to enter, you can get them ahead of time, or at the site.
Acropolis Museum and Lunch Break
The Acropolis Museum contains archeological findings from the Acropolis of Athens.
The museum is located right next to the Acropolis hill, so you can head there right after visiting the Parthenon. After exploring the museum, check out the gift shop and have a lunch or coffee break at the cafe with exceptional views.
Tip: Non EU citizens 25 and under are eligible for half priced tickets.
Stroll Around Plaka
Stroll the oldest streets of Athens in the Plaka neighborhood.
Plaka has many restaurants with lovely outdoor seating, especially at the famous Plaka Stairs. Make you way over to Anafiotika to see a few streets that resemble the Greek islands. This area is known for its quaint white homes and flowery decor.
Ancient Agora
The Agora was the heart of ancient Athens where political, social, and cultural activities took place in the 2nd century B.C. Here you will find ruins, the Temple of Hephaestus, and the Ancient Agora Museum.
Sunset at Aeropagus hill
If you have the time, I recommend catching the sunset from Aeropagus hill. It is a small hill west of the Acropolis that is very accessible via a short walk from Monastiraki Square. Here you can see the Acropolis close by and overlook the city.
Bonus Tips For Visiting Athens
- On the first Sunday of every month from November to March, all archeological sites and museums are free admission, including the Parthenon.
- Be aware of pickpockets on trains, metros, and on the streets. Keep your belongings close and zipped.
- Give yourself free time to explore the streets and look at local shops.
Athens is such a unique place, with ancient ruins scattered throughout the city. The history, food scene, and archeology make a visit here worth while. Check out my Ultimate Guide to Athens, Greece for more info about this city.
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