3 Perfect Days in Athens: The Ultimate Itinerary by a Local

Last updated: April 2025

Planning your first trip to Athens and not sure how to make the most of it in just 3 days? I’m Chrysoula — born and raised here — and I’ve compiled the perfect 3-day Athens itinerary for 2025. From ancient landmarks to my favorite local tavernas, this guide includes everything you need to explore Athens like an insider. Whether it’s your first time or your fifth, you’ll uncover the city’s hidden gems, best views, and authentic flavors. Let’s get started!

Staying three days in Athens can be a bit challenging as you might not know where to begin, so here’s our recommendation on more things to do in Athens!

You might be interested in this 10-day Greece itinerary.

Disclaimer: This post contains affiliate links. This means that should you click on certain links and then subsequently purchase a product, I will receive a small commission.

Day 1 in Athens: Ancient Athens & Acropolis

Your first day in Athens is all about going straight to its soul — the Acropolis and the surrounding ancient wonders. Trust me, even as a local, the beauty and scale of these sites never gets old. And if you time your visit well, you’ll beat both the crowds and the heat.

The Acropolis

The name Acropolis means “high city” — and that’s exactly where you’re headed. This UNESCO World Heritage site has stood tall for thousands of years and remains the crown jewel of Athens.

You’ll enter through the Beulé Gate, then pass through the impressive Propylaea. Make sure to pause at the Temple of Athena Nike before reaching the centerpiece — the Parthenon.

💡 Local Tip: Visit the Acropolis as close to 8:00 AM as possible. It gets extremely busy by 9:30, and the summer sun is unforgiving. Early birds get better photos too!

Theater of Dionysus

Just below the Acropolis lies the Theatre of Dionysus, the cradle of Western drama. Imagine this: thousands of Athenians once gathered here to watch the plays of Sophocles, Euripides, and Aristophanes — some of which are still performed today.

The theatre could accommodate 17,000 spectators, and back then; it was not only used for performances but also for festivals that honored the god Dionysus.

Odeon of Herodus Atticus

Further along the southern slope is the Odeon of Herodes Atticus, a Roman-era open-air theatre still used today during the Athens Epidaurus Festival.

It was actually built in 161 AD by Herodes Atticus, the Roman philosopher and teacher in memory of his wife.

💡 Local Tip: If you’re visiting between May and October, check if there’s a live performance — it’s unforgettable under the stars.

Tickets & Entry Info for the Acropolis and Sites

Instead of standing in long queues (especially under the summer sun!), the best thing you can do is book your ticket online in advance — and now, it’s more important than ever.

Why? Because since 2024, the Acropolis has a daily visitor cap of 20,000 people, and walk-ins are not always guaranteed entry — especially from April to October.

New Rules You Need to Know:
– Entry is organized in hourly time slots.
– You must select a specific time slot when booking.
– Tickets are only valid from 15 minutes before to 15 minutes after your chosen time.

Example: If you book for 9:00–10:00 AM, you can enter between 8:45–10:15 AM.

Most popular slots like early morning and late afternoon sell out fast, so if you want to visit when it’s cooler and less crowded, book at least a few days in advance — especially in high season.

👉 Click here to check availability and reserve your Acropolis ticket

Ticket Prices:
General Admission: 30,00 €
Over 65y (EU): 15,00 € (from October 1st to May 31st of each year)
Up to 25y (EU): Free entry
Up to 18y (Non EU): Free entry

Optional Guided Tour Recommendation

If you’re into history and mythology, a guided tour can bring the ruins to life.

Here are my favorite options:

Option 1: If you are interested in a guided tour of the Acropolis I recommend the Acropolis and Parthenon Guided Walking Tour. The tour lasts 2 to 4 hours.

Option 2: If you are interested in a guided tour of both the Acropolis Museum and the Acropolis, I recommend the Athens: Acropolis, Parthenon & Acropolis Museum Guided Tour. The tour lasts 3 to 4 hours.

OPTIONAL: If You Would Rather Have A Mythology Highlights Tour

If you find it hard to visit all of the ancient monuments on your own, or need someone to guide you through them and explain their history to you, then you can take a 4-hour guided tour from 8:30 am every day in either English or French where you will be able to visit the most important monuments the Acropolis, the Zeus Temple, the Ancient Agora, and much more.

Not only will you be visiting all of the monuments in a systematic tour, but you’ll also learn about the Gods and their history, the city’s ancient history, the society and how it worked, and how people lived back then.

Find here more information about the Mythology Highlights Tour.

After soaking in the glory of the Acropolis, it’s time to explore more of Athens’ ancient treasures just a short walk away. This part of your day balances history with relaxation, and offers the perfect cooler afternoon break with indoor stops and photo-worthy sights.

Acropolis Museum

Just a few steps from the Acropolis exit, the Acropolis Museum is one of the most important and beautifully designed museums in the world. It’s dedicated to the Parthenon and the surrounding temples, offering deep insights into ancient Athenian life.

Inside, you’ll find:

• Original sculptures and artifacts from the Acropolis site
• A stunning glass floor showcasing ancient ruins beneath your feet
• Panoramic views of the Acropolis itself from the upper gallery

Ticket Prices:
General Admission: 20,00 €
Over 65y (EU): 10,00 €
Up to 25y (EU): Free entry
Children up to the age of 5, from non-EU countries: Free entry
Children and young people aged between 6 and 25 years, from non-EU countries: 10,00 €

💡 Local Tip: You can enjoy a light lunch or a refreshing drink at the museums cafe while enjoying one of the best views of the Acropolis.

A good way to save money and time on your visit to Athens is to buy the Athens City Pass. I reccommend the Classic or Complete Athens City Pass. For more information: Athens City Pass.

Temple of Zeus

Walk just 10 minutes from the museum to the Temple of Olympian Zeus, one of the largest temples ever built in the ancient world.

• Construction started in the 6th century BC and took over 700 years to complete!
• Only 15 of the original 104 Corinthian columns remain, but they’re stunningly tall — over 17 meters.
• Nearby you’ll spot remnants of Roman baths and houses.

Ticket Prices:
General Admission: 20,00 €
Over 65y (EU): 10,00 € (from October 1st to May 31st of each year)
Up to 25y (EU): Free entry
Up to 18y (Non EU): Free entry

Arch of Hadrian

Right next to the Temple of Zeus is the striking Arch of Hadrian, built in 131 AD to honor the Roman Emperor.

It marked the symbolic boundary between Old Athens and the “new” Roman city. Look closely and you’ll see two inscriptions:

One reads, “This is Athens, the ancient city of Theseus” while the second reads, “This is the city of Hadrian and not of Theseus.”

💡 Local Tip: This is a quick stop, perfect for photos with the Acropolis in the background.

Plaka

You can end your day by walking around and having dinner at one of the oldest neighborhoods in Athens, where most of the streets are closed to just pedestrians.

You will be walking around neoclassical houses, pedestrian streets, and beautiful views in one of the oldest districts in Athens. Today it has become an area full of restaurants, little taverns, jewelry stores, and cafes, and you can find all types of diverse shops, from normal ones to traditional ones, to more touristy ones.

As you wander the streets around Plaka walk up through Anafiotika, a secret island-style village just beneath the Acropolis. It’s one of the most picturesque corners of the city.

💡 Local Tip: My favorite taverna in Plaka is Platanos. A great place to taste traditional flavors under a big plane tree. If you’d rather have an Acropolis view then Kuzina is the place to go.

Prefer visuals over reading? I’ve got you covered!

Check out my YouTube video guide where I walk you through how to spend 3 days in Athens— with real footage from the sites, local tips, and practical advice for your visit.

Just hit play below and let Athens come to life before your trip!

Day 2 in Athens: Local Life, Food & Art

After soaking up the ancient spirit of Athens, it’s time to dive into its contemporary heartbeat — where history, creativity, and everyday life collide. Today you’ll explore vibrant neighborhoods, taste local life in food markets, and discover a completely different side of the city.

Ancient Agora

Start your morning at the Ancient Agora, located just below the Acropolis. This was once the civic and commercial center of classical Athens — a place for gatherings, political debates, trade, and public life. It was the place where Socrates used to lecture young students.

• Don’t miss the Temple of Hephaestus — one of the best-preserved temples in the ancient world, sitting quietly atop a small hill
• Wander through shaded ruins, columns, and olive groves
• Visit the Stoa of Attalos, now a museum showcasing everyday life in ancient Greece

Ticket Prices:
General Admission: 20,00 €
Over 65y (EU): 10,00 € (from October 1st to May 31st of each year)
Up to 25y (EU): Free entry
Up to 18y (Non EU): Free entry

Syntagma Square

Walk about 14 minutes to reach Syntagma Square, Athens’ modern center and transport hub.

This is where locals meet for coffee, shopping, or protest. It’s also home to:

• The Parliament Building
• The Tomb of the Unknown Soldier — guarded by the Evzones, in their traditional white skirts and pom-pom shoes
• The Changing of the Guard ceremony happens every hour, but Sunday at 11 AM features the full ceremonial version with music and full dress uniforms.

💡 Local Tip: Walk through the adjacent National Garden for a shady, scenic shortcut.

Panathenaic Stadium

Just a short walk away, this stadium is the only one in the world made entirely of marble and was the venue of the first modern Olympic Games in 1896.

• You can walk onto the track and even stand on the medal podium
• Originally built in 330 BC, it still seats up to 60,000
• It’s also the finish line of the Athens Marathon every November!

Ticket Prices:
General Admission: 10,00 €
Students: 5,00 €
Children up to the age of 5: Free entry

Check out the street art in Athens

Usually, when we think of Athens, images of completely ancient monuments come to mind, right?

However, the streets of Athens are filled with incredible pieces of graffiti, making it a very colorful town with all sorts of art and graffiti, from posters to murals, on the walls.

Head to Psiri and Exarchia for the best murals, graffiti, and urban installations. The messages range from whimsical to deeply political, reflecting Greece’s artistic and activist energy.

If you are interested in Street Art, you can book a tour here.

The Psiri neighborhood

This area has been turned from one of the most dangerous in Athens to one of its quirkiest, trendiest, edgiest, and most fashionable neighborhoods.

As you wander around, you will be able to see not only wonderfully authentic craftsmen’s stores but also a lot of street art that evolved due to the economic crisis and art galleries like Sarilla 12 and AD Gallery. You have to look out for Alexandros Vasmoulakis and Vangelis Hoursoglou, who brought public art into the streets for the first time.

Monastiraki Square

End the afternoon with a visit to Monastiraki, one of Athens’ liveliest and most colorful neighborhoods.

• Have a coffee at a rooftop café like Anglais or 360 Cocktail Bar
• Browse the famous Monastiraki Flea Market, packed with everything from leather sandals and vinyl records to antiques and quirky souvenirs
• Stop at Tzistarakis Mosque, and take in views of the Acropolis rising above

A good way to save money and time on your visit to Athens is to buy the Athens City Pass. I reccommend the Classic or Complete Athens City Pass. For more information: Athens City Pass.

Athens Central Market

Walk 9 minutes from Monastiraki to Athens Central Market (Varvakeios Agora) — the beating culinary heart of the city.

• It’s split into two massive halls — one for meat and one for seafood
• Outside, you’ll find stalls with olives, nuts, fruits, and spices

If you want to feel the chaotic energy of daily Athenian life, this is the place.

💡 Local Tip: Come hungry — grab a bite at Epirus Taverna inside the market, famous for hearty soups and slow-cooked stews.

OPTIONAL: Athens Food Tour

What better way to discover a country than by exploring its gastronomy? In this tour, you will see Athens in a different light than you have in the past day as you will embark on a journey of discovering the best Greek pastries, wine, cheese, and salamis.

You’ll be going on a guided culinary tour of Athens, have an authentic Greek breakfast at a café that is a century old, purchase your choice of cheese and meat from a market, sample different types of food, try some Athenian coffee, and purchase souvenirs to take home.

Find here more information about this Athens Food Tour.

National Archaeological Museum

The National Archaeological Museum is one of the most important museums in the world. The museum is devoted to Ancient Greek art, and it contains and protects the principal exhibits from a variety of archaeological locations across Greece.

Ticket Prices:
General Admission: 12,00 €
Over 65y (EU): 6,00 € (from October 1st to May 31st of each year)
Up to 25y (EU): Free entry
Up to 18y (Non EU): Free entry

Day 3: Best Day Trips from Athens

Two days are enough to see all of the main attractions in Athens, and now it’s time to get out of Athens and discover its neighboring cities.

Full-Day Cruise to Aegina, Poros, and Hydra 

A classic and super-convenient day trip, this cruise lets you visit three Saronic Gulf islands in one relaxing day — without needing to plan a thing.

What’s Included:

• Aboard a comfortable cruise ship with lounges, sun decks, and optional upgrades (like VIP service)
• Live music, buffet-style lunch, and optional island walking tours

The Islands:

• Hydra – No cars here! Stone mansions, donkeys, seaside cafés, and clear water
• Poros – Tranquil, pine-covered, and perfect for a quiet stroll
• Aegina – Known for pistachios, cute harbors, and the Temple of Aphaia

Read here my experience about the 1-day cruise.

Find here more information about the day cruise to three islands.

Or: Half-Day Trip to the Temple of Poseidon Sounion

If you’re short on time but still want a mythical adventure, this 4-hour trip to Cape Sounion is ideal. It combines history, sea views, and one of the most famous sunset spots in Greece.

Highlights:

• The Temple of Poseidon, perched dramatically on a cliff above the Aegean
• Amazing coastal drive along the Athens Riviera
• Learn about Poseidon, sea myths, and ancient maritime routes

💡 Local Tip: Go for the sunset tour — it’s one of the most breathtaking views in Attica.

Click here for more information and to book this tour

For more day trips from Athens, check here.

How to get from and to Athens airport

Getting from Athens International Airport (Eleftherios Venizelos) to the city center is straightforward — and there’s an option for every budget and travel style.

1. By Metro (Line 3 – Blue Line)

• Connects the airport directly to Syntagma and Monastiraki stations.
• Trains run every 30 minutes, from 06:30 to 23:30 daily.
• Journey time: Around 40 minutes.
• Ticket price: €9 one-way for adults, €4.50 for under 18s/over 65s.
• Buy tickets at the airport metro station or use a contactless card.

✅ Local Tip: Metro is the fastest and easiest way to get into the city if you’re traveling light.

2. By Airport Bus (X95 to Syntagma)

• The X95 Express Bus runs 24/7 from the airport to Syntagma Square.
• Leaves approximately every 15–20 minutes.
• Journey time: 50–60 minutes, depending on traffic.
• Tickets: €5.50, available at the kiosk between Exits 4 & 5 or on board.

✅ Local Tip: If you’re arriving late at night or early morning, the X95 is a safe and reliable choice.

3. By Taxi

• Official taxis line up just outside Exit 3 at Arrivals.
• Fixed fare to the city center:
  • €40 (daytime: 05:00–00:00)
  • €55 (night: 00:00–05:00)
• Prices include all charges: tolls, VAT, and luggage.

✅ Local Tip: Always confirm the flat rate before getting in. Avoid unofficial drivers inside the terminal.

4. By Private Transfer (Hassle-Free Option)

If you want a smooth arrival with no stress, I recommend booking a private transfer in advance.
Your driver meets you at the arrivals hall holding a sign with your name, offers bottled water, a local map, and helps with luggage.

• Fixed price: €46 by day, €61 by night
• Ideal if you’re traveling with family or have a lot of bags

For more information and to book your private transfer, check here.

Where to Stay in Athens (By Budget)

Athens offers a wide range of accommodations — from cozy guesthouses to boutique hotels and luxurious rooftop stays. To help you decide, here are my hand-picked hotels organized by budget and traveler type, all in convenient locations for sightseeing.

Pro Tip: Athens gets booked out quickly between April and November, especially around major holidays — so be sure to book early for the best rates and availability.

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Budget Hotels in Athens – Central & Comfortable

Attalos Hotel – Budget with a View

• Location: Monastiraki
• Rooftop bar with Acropolis views, great for sunset drinks
• Close to restaurants, metro, and sights
• Perfect for: First-time visitors on a budget
• Check availability at Attalos Hotel

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Arethusa Hotel – Simple & Well-Located

• Location: Plaka
• Daily American-style breakfast, views of the Acropolis from the rooftop
• Perfect for: Travelers who want easy access to historical sights
• Book a room at Arethusa Hotel

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Mid-Range Hotels in Athens – Value Meets Style

360 Degrees Hotel – Urban, Central & Trendy

• Location: Monastiraki Square
• Rooftop restaurant/bar with full view of the Acropolis
• Rooms for every budget, from doubles to stylish suites
• Perfect for: Couples and city explorers
• Book a room at 360 Degrees Hotel

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Boutique Hotels in Athens – Stylish & Local

Herodion Hotel – Culture Meets Comfort

• Location: Just below the Acropolis
• Rooftop with 2 hot tubs, Point A Restaurant with Acropolis views
• Ideal for museum lovers and romantic travelers
• View rates for Herodion Hotel

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5-Star Hotels in Athens – Luxury & Location

St George Lycabettus Hotel – Elegant with Epic Views

• Location: Kolonaki (upscale neighborhood)
• Rooftop pool, spa, and restaurant with panoramic views of Athens
• Stylish rooms, some with private balconies
• Perfect for: Luxury travelers, honeymooners, or business travelers
• Check prices for St George Lycabettus Hotel

Where Locals Eat in Athens

• Klimataria (near Omonia) – A rustic taverna with a warm, old-school vibe, Klimataria is beloved for its hearty stews and occasional live Greek music — a real local hangout that feels like a step back in time.
• Epirus Tavern (inside Central Market) – Tucked inside the buzzing Varvakeios Market, this no-frills spot is famous for its comforting traditional dishes like tripe soup and slow-cooked beans — a true taste of Athens in its rawest form.
• Platanos (Plaka) – A local favorite since 1932, this classic taverna sits under the shade of a giant plane tree and serves timeless Greek dishes in a quiet square that feels like a hidden island inside the city.
• To Triantafyllo tis Nostimias (near Syntagma) – This cozy and authentic eatery is a local secret, known for its generous meze, home-style cooking, and seasonal specials that make you feel like you’re eating at a Greek family table.
• Souvlaki Kostas (Filellinon Street) – One of the most iconic souvlaki spots in central Athens — small, fast, and always with a line of locals waiting for their fix of perfectly grilled pita wraps.

Local Tips for Visiting Athens

Whether you’re exploring Athens under the blazing summer sun or during its quieter winter charm, these local tips will help you travel smarter and enjoy the city like a true Athenian.

• Tap water is safe to drink in Athens — refill your bottle instead of buying plastic ones.
• Avoid walking alone late at night in Omonia and some parts of Exarchia if you’re unfamiliar with the area.
• Carry some cash. While cards are accepted almost everywhere, smaller kiosks or local tavernas may prefer cash.
• The metro is fast and reliable, but like in most big cities, watch out for pickpockets, especially at Syntagma and Monastiraki stations.
• Tipping isn’t required but appreciated. Round up or leave 5–10% in restaurants and cafés.
• Shops close early on Sundays. Most supermarkets and local stores shut by Saturday evening.
• Get to the Acropolis early! Especially in high season, the morning is your best bet for fewer crowds and cooler weather.
• Enjoy the coffee culture. Athenians love to linger over a freddo espresso or Greek coffee — follow their lead and take your time.

If you are visiting during the summer months you should also keep in mind the following:

• It gets very hot. Sightseeing between 12:00–16:00 can be intense, so plan indoor activities or lunch breaks during this time.
• Sunscreen, sunglasses, and hats are non-negotiable — even locals use them daily.
• Stay hydrated and take breaks in shaded cafés or museums with AC.
• Book major attractions in advance — especially the Acropolis and guided tours. Spots can fill up fast!
• Evenings are lively. Summer means late dinners, rooftop bars, and open-air cinemas — a must-do!
• Watch for mosquitoes, especially near gardens or hills in the evenings. Bring repellent or wipes.

From standing on the steps of the Parthenon to sipping coffee in a quiet corner of Plaka, Athens is a city that blends ancient history with vibrant modern life. In just three days, you’ll experience world-famous monuments, buzzing neighborhoods, street markets, delicious food, and timeless sunsets. Whether it’s your first visit or your fifth, Athens always has something new to offer.

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