Athens is the capital of Greece and known as the birthplace of democracy. Moreover it’s Europe’s oldest capital city and also the first European Capital of Culture. Plenty of Classical civilisation’s intellectual, artistic and philosophical ideas initiated here, and the city is considered to be the place of origin of Western civilisation. In Athens you can find many historic landmarks, such as temples and theatres, which were made by ancient architects during the Classical period.
Often people come to Athens just for few days because they are taking a ferry or another flight to one of the beautiful Greek island. Here you can find more information about my favourite hidden gem, Sifnos, famous Crete and Zakynthos with it’s the most famous beach in the whole Europe! Or maybe Cyprus?
The capital of Greece was named after Athena, the patron goddess of Athens. Athens is also known as “the city of the Violet Crown.” I assume Athens is most famous for the Acropolis but it has so much more to offer! Despite going through a major economical crisis started in 2009 Athens seem to bloom again! It was so great to discover a city full of modern bars, cafés with delicious food, beautiful hotels and most importantly smiling locals.
So if you ask me is it worth visiting Athens then I won’t hesitate to say YES! It has everything to offer for everybody: Culture, really tasty food, museums, shopping, nightlife, colourful neighbourhoods, good weather and lovely vibes. The only downside that I need to mention is the busyness of the Greek capital. It is beloved by tourists and additionally more than 3 million people live here. So the traffic can get chaotic and the queues to the sites can be extremely long.
Best time to visit Athens
The best time of year to visit Athens is April until the middle of June, and September until the end of October. The summer months are very hot so it can be torturing to explore the city. Because of the heat the majority of the population leaves Athens for vacations in August. In April be aware of the Easter holidays since Greeks like to have a week off and celebrate it properly.
For budget travellers I would recommend to travel to Athens in January, February or March. It’s not too cold then and the prices for the hotels and museums are lower than during the high season. Furthermore it’s Independence Day in Greece on March 25th and it’s a national holiday. So make time to see the huge parades!
How many days to spend in Athens?
If you are planning your holidays to Athens and think how long you should spend there then I would recommend not less than 3 days. Athens is a big ancient city and has plenty to offer. So if you want to see the main attractions but also explore the culinary and coffee scene at a comfortable pace at that point 3 – 5 days are optimal. Athens has also beautiful surroundings that are worth of visiting too. We stayed 3 days in Athens but it could have been longer!
You can easily get to all the main sites in Athens on your own, but if you are looking for a more comfortable way to explore Athens, I can highly recommend the Red Hop-On Hop-Off Bus. You can book it for 1-3 days and see the main sights of the city. Since the city is compact but it offers so much to see it can get very tiring to walk everywhere. So the bus is a great option to see the best of the Greek’s capital.
Traveling with kids to Athens
If you decided to visit Athens with kids then I will give you some tips. There is a lovely company called Baby Traveller, which offers various baby & kids equipment for rent. We rented pram, scooter and baby bouncer for 3 days. All their equipment was clean and in a great condition. Our 4 year old son couldn’t ride the scooter at first (we have only a bike at home) but he learned it very fast! And it was so useful, because Athens can be very tiring for the little ones since it requires a lot of walking. Anyhow a scooter for kids is a must in a city like Athens!
For those who are travelling with babies I would recommend to try out baby carrier IZZZI. I loved it because it’s the most comfortable way to breastfeed the baby. And this is pretty important while you are travelling. Especially being in the airport, going through check-in or to your seat on the airplane. You don’t have time to stop and feed your baby but with the carrier you can do it on the go. That’s awesome!
Plus it’s very comfortable for the babies until 6 months. They feel safe and secure. There is also a hidden storage bag where you can keep small baby things or even your wallet. We chose grey colour since both of us parents want it to carry it and it should look nice with the outfit, you know!
Where to stay in Athens
We were staying in two wonderful extravagant hotels in Athens: Neoma and Athens Flair.
The first 2 nights we spent in the new boutique hotel Neoma which is tucked in the heart of the vibrant city and offers spectacular views of the Acropolis from it’s rooftop. It was very convenient to stay in a quiet area but just a short stroll from many famous sites, restaurants at the same time since we were travelling with kids. The main focus of the hotel is a modern simplicity with the accent on details. Especially the breakfast area caught my attention with the decoration and mesmerising paintings of Picasso and Matisse.
The room was nice and compact with minimal design, complete with a Nespresso machine with plenty of coffee tabs, walk-in shower, comfortable bed, a flat-screen TV, luxury amenities and a balcony. Plus there is free Wi-Fi of course. Every morning we could enjoy a sumptuous à la carte breakfast. I really preferred to order from a menu instead of having a buffet. It’s so much nicer to wait for your breakfast at the table while chatting to your partner. There is no need to rush or to stand in the queue but just to enjoy 1-2 well-cooked dishes. This is definitely a luxurious holiday feeling!
The highlight of Neoma hotel is definitely the rooftop pool area. The breathtaking view of the Acropolis while swimming or having a drink in the evening is doubtlessly memorable. While travelling as a couple it’s a must to watch the sunset over the Acropolis and enjoy a perfectly made cocktail.
All in one the calm atmosphere and friendly staff made our stay splendid. What a shame I didn’t have time to check out the gym but I think after exploring the whole day heely Athens it counts as exercise!
The last night we decided to spend in the 4 star boutique hotel Athens Flair in the fancy neighbourhood, Kolonaki. Kolonaki is the area where the elite of Athens used to live before many of them moved out to the suburbs. Nowadays it’s an upscale district of Athens, famous for its sophisticated atmosphere, fine dining restaurants and upscale shopping. Close by you can also observe the marvellous University of Athens and also enjoy the views from the famous Lycabettus Hill.
So among the beautiful neoclassical buildings in Kolonaki you can find a luxury hotel with 6 suites and a rooftop terrace with fantastic views. This special and remarkable place harmoniously combines contemporary design with well-preserved original elements of the building. High ceilings, spiral staircases and minimalistic design make the ambiente unique and charming. Important to mention that the building was built in 1906 and was linked to a famous Greek artist, Elli Lambeti. Moreover in 1985 the building was announced as a work of art from the Greek Ministry of Civilization. I told you this hotel is very special!
I suppose it’s silly to mention what you can find in the room since it’s a 4 star hotel but I will make a remark that there is coffee machine, fantastic shower, flat TV-screen, free Wi-Fi, bathrobe and slippers. More importantly is the delicious breakfast that I was so looking forward to but unfortunately we left very early to the airport and couldn’t enjoy it.
In my opinion the most outstanding point about Athens Flair is it’s design. The tremendous fabulous portraits of beautiful women hanging on the walls of rooms. It felt like being in a museum surrounded by masterpieces. I would definitely recommend this place to anyone, especially if you are travelling as a couple. You will have a sophisticated and memorable stay.
What to do & see in Athens in 3 Days?
First of all it’s important to purchase a combined ticket to visit all major sites in Athens. The best to buy it already online so you don’t need to stand in the long queues. With this ticket you will be able to visit not only the famous Acropolis but also enter the Ancient Agora, Roman Agora, Hadrian’s Library, Aristotle’s School, Kerameikos, and the Olymieion. And since there are so many various sites you will be able to use this ticket over a five-day period. You will doubtlessly save plenty of money if you plan to immerse into the Greek culture. And now let’s start our history lesson!
DAY 1: The Ancient Agora
Start your first day by visiting the Ancient Agora. It was built in the 6th Century BC and was once the pinnacle of life in ancient Athens. All of the commercial, political, and social activity took place here. It was also used as a marketplace and gathering spot, where you’d meet philosophers like Socrates, Plato or Aristotle.
First what you might visit when you enter the Ancient Agora is the Temple of Hephaestus, which is considered to be the best preserved temple in Athens. And you know when it was built? Of course not, but I will tell you: in 415 BC and it’s still in great condition!
Access to the Ancient Agora is included with The Athens Pass If you don’t have the Athens Pass, you can book your tickets directly here!
Additionally the Ancient Agora is a base for ruin remnants. Nevertheless here you should use a bit of your imagination to picture the way it used to look. Still exciting to walk around ancient pile of rocks, stumps, and fallen-down walls. Beside in the ruins you will be able to observe the Stoa of Attalos, built in the 2nd Century BC and currently open as a museum for the Ancient Agora. The Byzantine Church of the Holy Apostles, which was built in 1000AD, can also be found here.
The Kerameikos Cemetery
The Kerameikos Cemetery is also included in the combined pass and it’s another important site to visit in Athens. This area was once one of the most important regions of ancient Athens. All the famous Athenian vases were produced here. Later is has been transformed into a cemetery.
By the way if by this point you get hungry I need to inform you anywhere you eat in Athens food won’t disappoint you. Even if it’s a very touristy place the quality and taste of meals is incredible here! And hey the prices are also pretty low if I compare to countries like Belgium or Austria.
The Roman Agora
After lunch it’s time to visit the second Agora in Athens. The Roman Agora was built in the 1st century BC in the time of Caesar and Augustus and was used a gathering spot and marketplace in the city. The entrance to this Agora was dedicated to the goddess of war, Athena. Julius Caesar commissioned it to be built and called it the Gate of Athena Archegetis.
The most well-preserved building here is the Tower of the Winds. It’s a huge octagonal marble tower with the function of a sundial, water clock, and weathervane. There is a belief that it is the first meteorological station in the world. It’s definitely worth of having a look inside.
Access to the Ancient Agora is included with The Athens Pass If you don’t have the Athens Pass, you can book your tickets directly here!
Hadrian’s Library
Hadrian’s Library is north of the Roman Agora, right next to the vivid Monastiraki Square. Despite not being very well preserved, you can effortlessly imagine how tremendous the building was when it was in all it’s glory.
The access is included with your Athens Pass.
Amazing neighbourhood Plaka
No one can come to Athens and not visit it’s oldest neighbourhood, Plaka. It lies around the northern and eastern slopes of the Acropolis, and combines charming labyrinthine streets and stunning neoclassical architecture. Here you can also find alleys with colorful homes and lovely cafes. Plaka occupies the area where the main part of the ancient city of Athens used to be. It’s an awesome place to spend a few hours wandering around, exploring and taking instagramable pictures.
The Plaka Stairs are a must-see in this neighbourhood. Various cafes line these popular steps with small tables and seat pillows for comfortably sitting on the steps and tasting coffee with delicious pastry. This would be a great place to rest after a long walk and enjoy some drinks in Athens, Greece.
DAY 2: Acropolis
The second day you should start very early if you want to see the best of the Acropolis without many other tourists around it. The best is to go to the southeast gate at 7:30 a.m. because you will be able to see the site without anybody else around. The Acropolis is one of the most important site in Athens and even during the low season in spring or autumn there are plenty of curious tourists. That’s why try to get there already at the moment when the gates open, 7:30 a.m. The southeastern gates also the best choice because there the queues are smaller.
I personally would recommend to get a guide to learn more about the Acropolis and history of Greece. The duration of the guided tour that I would suggest is 4 hours and you will get to know so much! If you want to have a quicker one then check out this tour. The last one you can definitely visit with your kids too!
Did you know that the word ‘Acropolis’ is the name of every city or town built at the top of a hill or high ground level? The Acropolis is therefore not just one building, but the entire plateau. There are several buildings and the most famous is the Parthenon, the Temple of Athena Nike, and the Erechtheion – the temple best known for the Caryatids.
All of these were built under the reign of Pericles, during the Golden Age of Athens – around 460 – 430 BC. The architects were Callicrates and Ictinus. Important to mention that the Acropolis continued to be a holy place even after the time of the Ancient Greeks. During the Byzantine era, the Parthenon was converted into a Christian Church, dedicated to the Virgin Mary. In 1205, when the Latin Duchy of Athens was founded, the Parthenon became the Cathedral of Athens. Last but not least after the Ottomans conquered Athens in the 15th century, and the Parthenon became a mosque.
After the Greek War of Independence, the interventions of other religions were eliminated from the Parthenon, in order to restore it to its original spirit.
Also good to know that there are FREE admission days
There are several days within the year when admission is free for everyone:
- 6 March (in memory of Melina Mercouri)
- 18 April (International Monuments Day)
- 18 May (International Museums Day)
- The last weekend of September annually (European Heritage Days)
- 28 October
- Every first Sunday from November 1st to March 31st
Acropolis Museum
The Acropolis Museum is not another boring museum! It was voted the 6th best museum in the world according to Trip Advisor’s traveler’s choice awards. That means the Acropolis Museum ranked below Musée d’Orsay, but above the Louvre!
It’s admission free if you purchase The Athens Pass otherwise I would recommend to buy it online to save some time and not stand the queue.
The Acropolis Museum is focused on the findings of the archaeological site of the Acropolis of Athens. It houses over 3.000 famous artefacts from the Athenian Acropolis and is considered as the most significant sanctuary of the ancient city. Definitely visit the cafe on the top of the building. There you can enjoy incredible views of the Parthenon, a former temple on the Athenian Acropolis.
Syntagma Square
Time to visit an important historical public area, Syntagma Square. It is located in the heart of Greece’s capital, Athens, in front of the 19th century Old Royal Palace. Since 1934 it’s also the Greek Parliament. You can even visit the Hellenic Parliament for free.
The highlight of the Syntagma Square is the ceremonial changing of the guards at the Tomb of the Unknown Soldier. The guards remain stationary and silent for one hour.
The Evzones, dressed in the resplendent traditional national uniform, are the presidential guards. They also serve as the protectors of the monument. On Sundays, you can observe the soldiers dressed in the traditional uniforms of the 1821 Greek freedom fighters. During the week though, they wear different version of this outfit.
Monastiraki Neighbourhood
After a long day visit the charming Monastiraki neighbourhood for a delicious dinner. This area will surprise you how vibrant and colourful it is! Check out the wonderful street lantern, it is on Pittaki street near the Little Kook Tea House. Doubtlessly very mesmerising during the late hours! Adrianou Street is the perfect place to relax in an outdoor cafe or restaurant in Athens, Greece. It starts at Hadrian’s Library and ends near Thissio Metro. The perfect place to have dinner.
End your day at Monastiraki Square which is by the way the main square in Athens. It doesn’t look like that from ground level. But if you visit the A for Athens rooftop bar, you will see the beauty of it. Make sure to reserve though, it’s a popular spot in Athens. And definitely go there to watch the sunset with the Acropolis illuminated!
DAY 3:
Gourmet Food Tour
There are various alternatives what you could do on your last day. I would suggest to take it easy and explore the culinary side of Athens. There is a wonderful Gourmet Food Tour where you will be able to taste authentic Greek dishes like yummy pastries, wine, cheese and of course pita. You will start your 4-hour tour with traditional Greek breakfast, afterwards you will visit food stores and try famous Greek desserts. I think it’s an awesome way to get to know the culture and traditions of the country!
Hadrian’s Arch
The Arch of Hadrian also known as Hadrian’s Gate is a monumental gateway resembling a Roman triumphal arch. It was built to celebrate the travels of the Roman emperor Hadrian and to honour him for his contribution to the city. If you stand at a particular angle, you can see the Acropolis through the arch itself. Great opportunity for a picture!
Temple of Olympian Zeus
Just next to the Hadtian’s Arch you can see the Temple of Olympian Zeus. This half-ruined temple nowadays was once one of the largest temples in the ancient world. Construction begun about 520 BC by the tyrant Peisistratus and his sons, it was only finished under the Roman Emperor Hadrian. Which means it took more than 6 centuries for the temple to be completely built.
The access is included with your Athens Pass.
Panathenaic Stadium
This stadium is unusual because it’s the only stadium in the world built completely of marble. It was originally built for the Panathenaic Games, which is by the way inspiration for the modern Olympic Games. Afterwards Herodes Atticus, re-built it to reach a capacity of 50,000 seats. Tickets to the stadium aren’t included in the combination ticket, but the price is just 5€ per person.
National Garden
Just next to the Temple of Zeus you will find a gorgeous and huge public park, the National Garden. Located in the heart of Athens it offers a wonderful escape from the busy roads of the Greek capital. Here you can find various rare plants from all over the world, but also more ancient ruins. Definitely go to Zappeion, the marvellous building in the middle of the gardens that organizes important cultural events.
National and Kapodistrian University of Athens
After the National Garden take some time to admire the beauty of this building, the National and Kapodistrian University of Athens. Officially founded in April 14th, 1837 and is the oldest higher education institution of the modern Greek state. If you are into photography or simply searching for good Instagram content then you should definitely come here.
Lycabettus Hill
Lycabettus Hill is one of the must-visit sites in Athens. It’s the highest point in the centre of Athens and the best time to come here is in the evening so you can enjoy sunset over the city. You have two options for getting to the top: take the cable car or walk the entire way. Honestly you will do so much walking in Athens so it’s the best to take the cable car. We paid 13€ per person (kids until 5 year are free) for return tickets. Unfortunately, the cable car is under ground so you won’t be able to see a view while you are in it but once you emerge at the top of the hill you will see the incredible view. Just be prepared that it can get very windy up there!
Find the best flight prices for your 3 days in Athens
Since the price of flights to Athens can vary a lot, it’s a good idea to compare them as early as possible. For this, you can use our flight comparison tool Aviasales. I personally use them a lot.
