The Perfect 2 Days in Athens Itinerary You’ll Want to Steal

Last Updated on 28th October 2023 by Sophie Nadeau

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Athens, the capital of Greece, is a fantastic destination for a short city break, and great trip idea if you’re also planning to visit Mykonos or Santorini. You can spend a couple of days in the city before boarding your ferry to the islands, taking advantage of all the things that Athens has to offer. If you’re thinking about spending some time there, then this guide with the best things to do in 2 days in Athens in will come in handy. Take a look…

For more Greece inspiration, be sure to check out our guide to the best-kept secrets of Greece and our guide to the best quotes about Greece.

If you’re looking to escape Athens for a little while, then be sure to check out our guide to the best day trips from Athens. And if it’s a romantic escape that you’re planning? Here’s how to spend the perfect honeymoon in Greece.

Is 2 days enough time in Athens?

As the capital city of Greece, Athens is a large city with plenty of attractions and even more to see. As such, you won’t be able to cover everything that there is to do in Athens over the course of 48 hours.

With that being said, you’ll definitely have sufficient time to see all of the major highlights, monuments, and attractions. The ideal amount of time to explore Athens is two to four days (depending on how fast you travel).

Day 1 in Athens: Historical Sites

As the former capital of the Classical World, there are tons of museums and archaeological sites that you can visit on your first day in Athens. Start by discovering the most famous ones in the early morning, to avoid extreme heat if you’re traveling in summer, as well as crowds during the whole year. 

Then you will be able to devote the rest of the day to enjoy some of its traditional neighbourhoods and go for a drink or a traditional meal in the historical neighbourhood of Plaka.

The Acropolis

One of the most important places to discover in the city is the Acropolis of Athens, situated atop a high rock and visible from almost every corner of the metropolis. Inside the archaeological site, it is possible to see the ruins of several buildings that were key to the cultural life of Ancient Greece. 

Most of the constructions in the Acropolis are ancient religious temples that date back to the fifth century BC, while most of the buildings related to Athens’ political and social activities are located around the Acropolis Hill, closer to the centre of town.

If you’re looking to discover The Acropolis together with a local guide and visit first thing in order to beat the crowds, then consider booking this Best of Athens City Tour: First Entry Acropolis Tour, Ancient Agoras & Plaka Walk. Otherwise, let’s take a look at the most important remains that you can visit once at the Acropolis.

The Propylaea

This ceremonial entrance gateway granted access to the temples in the Acropolis and it is believed to have been a highly protected bastion guarding the treasures and wealth sheltered in the ancient temples. 

The Parthenon

The utmost example of Athens’ magnificence is the Parthenon. This impressive example of perfect Dorian architecture dates back to the year 432 BC and it was dedicated to Athena the virgin, daughter of Zeus, and protector goddess of Athens. 

However, there is also another temple devoted to the goddess Athena in the Acropolis, the small temple of Athena Nike. And while the Parthenon was built to honor the virgin goddess, the temple of Athena Nike was dedicated to Athena seen as the goddess of victory. 

The Temple of Athena Nike

This is the smallest temple in the religious citadel and it has been fully reconstructed. It was dedicated to worshiping a victorious Athena. The most important feature of this gorgeous, tiny temple is a frieze that depicts Victory (Nike) fixing her sandal. 

The Erechtheion

Another famous sight on top of the Acropolis is the beautiful temple, also dedicated to the cult of goddess Athena as well as the god Poseidon. The most remarkable part of the building is the so-called Porch of the Maidens featuring six impressive columns that take the shape of females dressed in classical clothes, the Caryatids. The columns at the temple are replicas, while the original ones can be seen at the Acropolis Museum, right opposite the archaeological site.

Once you have visited the top of the Acropolis, on your way down, you can make a stop at the magnificent Theater of Dionysus, on the southern slope of the hill, considered one of the best-preserved ancient Greek theatres. And you can also discover the Odeon, a unique amphitheater that is still used today for music performances, especially in summer.

The visit to the Acropolis can take you anything from one hour to the whole morning, depending on how interested you are in the temples and the history of Athens. 

It can be a good idea to visit the citadel with a guided tour that will explain you the most important details of the site, keep in mind that if you’re visiting during the high season, the place is usually crowded, so, when visiting Athens in just a couple of days, a skip-the-line-tour like this one will save you some time.

Other Ancient Sites to Check Out in Athens

Temple of Olympian Zeus

You can either visit the ruins of the Olympeion, or the Temple of Olympian Zeus either by visiting the site or admiring the majesty of its columns from the top of the Acropolis. The remains of the temple are located across from the Acropolis. 

The colossal temple is dedicated god Zeus, the most important of all the Greek gods. Today, the only remaining visible parts of the building are just 16 of the 104 massive columns in Dorian style. The temple was destroyed during a barbaric invasion of Athens and it was never reconstructed. This massive building was known as the largest temple in Greece during its years of glory.

Ancient Agora of Athens

Located about 15 minutes on foot from the Acropolis, you can also visit the Ancient Agora. This was a public space that had a central role in the ancient Greek polis for all the matters concerning the arts, the businesses, and the social and political life of the city-state. The Ancient Agora of Athens is the most perfect example in Greece of these places of public assembly. 

Inside the archeological site, you can check impressive colonnades and statues, as well as one of the most magnificent examples of ancient Dorian temples, the Hephaisteion, the temple devoted to honoring the god Hephaestus.

Once you’ve visited the most notable examples of Classical architecture in the Acropolis and the Agora of Athens, it is easy to head to Monastiraki Square to experience a taste of a more modern Athens. Here, you can grab a quick lunch in one of the many gyro restaurants and traditional taverns along the streets that surround the square. It is easy to reach Monastiraki from the Ancient Agora, which is within walking distance of the area.

Afternoon in Modern Athens

Monastiraki Square is the pulsing heart of the city, it is the place where you will not only find great views of the Acropolis, but also informal eateries, souvenir shops, and the entrance to the flea market of Athens, another place worth a stop during your time in town.

Athens Flea Market

If looking for an original souvenir from Athens, then you can head to the Monastiraki Flea Market, only steps from the iconic Monastiraki Square. You won’t only find cute mementos, but also cheap clothing, leather sandals, and more. In the area, you can also visit the Athens Antique Market, where you will be able to find anything from vintage vinyl albums, to odd furniture, unique pieces of jewelry, war relics, and a lot more. 

Instead, if you prefer to purchase modern pieces of clothing, shoes, and other fashionable items, you can head in the opposite direction to walk along Ermou Street. This is one of the most popular shopping streets in the city for an affordable shopping spree.

Syntagma Square and the Hellenic Parliament

Since you’re already on Ermou Street, why not head to Syntagma Square to witness the change of the guard in the Parliament of Greece, next to the Tomb of the Unknown Soldier. Start by exploring this Athenian central square, taking a sit, and observing the many street artists that often perform in the area. 

After visiting the square, you will only need to cross the street and get to the austere nineteenth-century Royal Palace that houses the Greek Parliament where every hour, on the dot, the change of the guard takes place. 

The evzones guarding the Tomb of the Unknown Soldier are two soldiers part of an elite division of the Greek army and you will easily recognize them not only for their spectacular uniforms but also for the solemn ceremony that the change of the guard entails. Every Sunday at 11 am, the ceremony is even more pompous and impressive. 

Try to reach the Hellenic Parliament a bit before the hour so as to get a good observing position as the ceremony is really popular and the place is often packed with both locals and tourists.

Syntagma Square is not just the heart of Greek politics and commercial activity, the area is one of the busiest transport hub in the capital with the station of two metro lines and dozens of different bus stops scattered around the square. Many touristic buses also depart from Syntagma.

Anafiotika and Dinner in Plaka

If you’ve spent your whole day walking in town, then it’s time to have dinner in the nearby area, this way you’ll avoid walking a lot more, but you will also explore two of the most picturesque parts of town, the neighborhoods of Plaka and Anafiotika.

Not far from the northeastern slope of the Acropolis, there is a scenic, small quarter that nobody should miss when visiting Athens. Known as Anafiotika, this tiny neighborhood, which is part of the broader area of Plaka, is dotted with small island-style that date from the 1800s.

The small, Cycladic houses were made by workers that came to Athens from the Aegean island of Anafi to work in the construction of the Royal Palace. The atmospheric streets of Anafiotika feature whitewashed homes, with tiny gardens covered with colorful flowers and fragrant bushes.

A curious fact about the area as the few streets that make the neighborhood do not have names, they are simply known as Anafiotika 1, 2…etc. If you love the vibe of the Greek islands, then pay a visit to this tranquil maze of cubic homes scattered along narrow alleys and small terraces with flowerpots and dozens of cats lazily lounging under the shadows of the trees.

When the time for dinner arrives, move towards the central area of the neighborhood known as Plaka, just meters from the stairs to Anafiotika. This historic quarter of town features unique Neoclassical buildings, dozens of traditional tavernas and several souvenir shops too.

If you’re looking for a place to spend the night, then Plaka can be the best option. The area is filled with rental homes, small hotels, and studios where you can spend the night.

Day 2: Museums of Athens and More Things to Do in Town

Get up early and head directly to the Acropolis Museum, one of the most important museums in the world, built to maintain visual harmony and connection with the nearby Acropolis which can be seen from the highest floors of the museum. If you would prefer to not visit another museum, then you can scroll down for another idea to fill your morning.

Inside this impressive museum, you will be able to admire the original pieces of art and sculpture found at the Acropolis, as well as enjoy magnificent vistas of the city and the Archaeological site.

The museum also offers seasonal exhibitions, and workshops about Ancient Athens, and is home to one of the most visited bars and restaurants in Athens where you can enjoy a cup of coffee with impressive views.

Before accessing the place, it is a good idea to visit the excavations under the premises that, during the construction of the museum, came to light uncovering traditional neighborhoods of Ancient Athens, with homes, streets, and other constructions. 

You might need a different ticket to access the excavations, however, there are several tours available that combine the entrance to the museum and the visit to the underneath archaeological site with a convenience fee. Purchase your tickets here in advance.

A visit to the Acropolis Museum can take from one to two hours, and even more if you’re an authentic fan of Ancient Greece. However, this is not the only museum you can check out in the capital of Greece.

Other interesting museums include the National Archaeological Museum of Athens, the most important archaeological museum in the country, as well as the Benaki Museum, exhibiting more than 100,000 artefacts from Greek history, and the Museum of Cycladic Art.

Ultimate Athens Food Tour

If you would prefer to skip out on more historical activities in lieu of discovering the local foodie scene, then taking a food option might be a better option for you. This four hours small group tour (the maximum number of people is 10) will take you on a foodie voyage across the city.

Included in the price is the opportunity to taste 13 different kinds of food across 9 different establishments together with a local knowledgable guide. Throughout the tour, you’ll learn about the history of Greek food as well as sample local staples like cheese, honey, coffee and more. Find full tour details here.

Athens Street Art

Take the afternoon to discover a different face of Athens, the one that portrays the recent history of the city, its economic struggles, but also, most importantly, the impressive cultural movement that has been agitating the local scene in the last decades. 

It is a good idea to begin the tour in the neighborhood of Psirri, located within walking distance of Monastiraki Square. In the neighborhood, you can check beautiful murals and street decorations, as well as enjoy a quick lunch or a refreshing drink in one of the many traditional restaurants and small modern pubs in the area.

For a better understanding of the local street art and its connection with the Greek culture and society, the best thing you can do is book a guided tour like this one that focuses on the history behind the most remarkable pieces of street graphics and visuals that you can find in the city. 

It will take you to visit alternative neighbourhoods such as Psirri, Gazi, Exarchia, and Metaxourgio. A knowledgeable guide that knows his way in town will certainly guarantee that you find the most famous graffiti without getting lost.

Cocktail with a View

As your days in Athens arrive at a closure, you will probably feel that you’ve missed a lot of what this incredibly beautiful and contrasting city has to offer. Don’t be surprised if an odd sense of nostalgia invades you even before leaving. In fact, Athens, with its ever-changing rhythm and chaotic vibe, manages to conquer you and leaves an ever-lasting impression. 

So if you think that Athens still has the best of it to offer, you’ve guessed correctly… wait until the sun starts to set behind the horizon and head to one of the many rooftop bars located all over the city to enjoy a cocktail, a few Greek appetizers (locally known as mezedes), and the most incredible views of the Acropolis at night.

If you’re looking for the right rooftop bar in Athens, then check any of these three venues to decide which one better suits your taste.

A for Athens: Perfect if you want to remain in the area of Monastiraki, A for Athens has long been one of the must-go places in town to enjoy the unique views of the Acropolis and the city skyline at dusk. A for Athens is located on top of a hotel and offers a creative cocktail list based on Greek Mythology and the country’s legendary hospitality.

Point a (Acropolis Point): Directly facing the Acropolis and the Acropolis Museum, Point a (Acropolis Point) is a gorgeous open bar and restaurant situated on the terrace of the herodion Hotel, on Rovertou Galli Street. Here, thy serve the most creative drinks and unique dishes that mix Greek flavors with fusion cuisine.
Couleur Locale: Another favorite place in the backstreets of Monastiraki, this stunning rooftop bar can be difficult to find, it does not have a super easy-to-spot entrance, sheltered under an old arcade dotted with antique shops, on Normanou Street. The place features a postcard-like panorama of the Acropolis and serves unique cocktails and savory treats, but also coffees and pastries any time of the day.

If you have 3 days in Athens or more

Of course, a simple 48 hours trip to the Greek capital is definitely not enough to explore everything that Athens has to offer. And so, if you have extra time to discover the city, then here are some great further suggestions:

 Roman Agora

The Roman Agora is known in Greek as the Ρωμαϊκή Αγορά. The Roman Forum of Athens is located to the North of the Acropolis and is one of the most important archaeological monuments in Athens. Though not quite as large or as impressive as the Ancient Agora, it’s well worth checking out if you have the time.

Library of Hadrian

As its name would suggest, the Library of Hadrian was created by the Emperor Hadrian in 132 CE to the North of the Acropolis. These ruins are situated close to the Roman Forum and are pretty delightful to visit in the evening (after dark) if you get the opportunity.

Mount Lycabettus

Those who love bird’s eye views and a bit of a workout might consider climbing Mount Lycabettus, which is also known as Lykabettos and Lykavittos. The limestone hill is located in the very heart of the Greek Capital city and is the highest point in central Athens. The walk to the top takes between half an hour and an hour and a half depending on your pace.

The National Garden

A wondrous green space comprising of 15.5 hectares, the National Garden is free to visit and is the perfect place to escape the hot sun and find some shade, if only for a few hours.

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Gabi Ancarola is a journalist and travel writer who has lived over 20 years in Italy, and has been living in Crete for the last five years. She hosts culinary tours, translates and writes for her Crete travel blog The Tiny Book. She’s written for Greek Reporter and published several travel guides about Greece.