How to See the Best of Athens in 2 Days: The Perfect Itinerary

Even after visiting so many incredible places around the world, Greece still stands out as one of my all-time favorite destinations. It is a country with so many stunning islands and diverse regions to explore. But because of that, it can be hard to decide where to start. If you’re looking for a budget-friendly entry point to Greece with a major dose of history, culture, and good food, Athens is an ideal place to begin. 

If you only have a couple of days to spend in the capital city of Greece, you will want to prioritize convenience, culture, and cuisine. This itinerary is perfect for first-time visitors or anyone with limited time who still wants to soak up the best of ancient and modern Athens. From wandering the historic streets of Plaka to watching the sunset over the city, here’s exactly how to see the best of Athens in two days!

When to Visit

Athens is a tourist hotspot all year around. Some of the best times to visit are late spring and early fall, when the weather is warm but not too hot, and the crowds are thinner. Summers are a popular time to visit but can be sweltering with temperatures often soaring above 90°F (32°C), while winters are mild and quieter, though some attractions may have reduced hours or even be closed for the season.

Where to Stay

Athens offers a variety of neighborhoods, each with its own vibe and advantages. If you’re looking for a lively, modern feel with lots of nightlife, Psiri is a fun and trendy option. For high-end shopping, art galleries, and stylish cafés, Kolonaki is a more upscale neighborhood that’s popular with locals and visitors alike. Koukaki, just south of the Acropolis, is a quieter, residential area that’s become increasingly popular with travelers.

But for a short stay, Plaka is hands-down the best place to be.

Plaka is nestled right at the base of the Acropolis and is one of the oldest parts of the city. It’s full of narrow, historic streets and ancient architecture. Best of all, staying in Plaka means you’re within walking distance of just about everything you’ll want to see, including the Acropolis and Ancient Agora. If you stay in Plaka, you’ll spend less time commuting and more time exploring the city’s ancient ruins, charming streets, and amazing food.

The Perfect 2-Day Itinerary for Athens

Day 1: Exploring & Sightseeing

Morning: Arrive, Check In, and Explore

After checking in, head straight into the heart of Plaka to get your first taste of Athens. 

Midday: Wander Through Plaka & Eat Lunch

Stroll through the charming streets, shop for souvenirs, and stop for lunch at The Greco’s Project near Monastiraki Square. Try the dolmades and souvlakis! (For more Greek food recommendations, check out my list of the 15 Best Foods to Try in Greece!) 

Afternoon: Sightseeing Options

Depending on how you’re feeling, you have a couple of great options for how to spend the rest of your afternoon:

If you’re up for more exploring in the city:

• Ancient Agora of Athens – Once the center of ancient Athenian life, this open-air site is scattered with ruins, columns, and temples. It’s a peaceful place to walk through and imagine what daily life was like in ancient times.
  
• Panathenaic Stadium – The only stadium in the world built entirely of marble and home to the first modern Olympic Games in 1896. You can walk on the track and even stand on the winners’ podium.
  
• National Garden – A lush escape in the middle of the city, perfect for a quiet stroll among shady paths, ponds, and ancient ruins.
  
• Hellenic Parliament and Changing of the Guards – Located at Syntagma Square, this ceremonial tradition happens every hour in front of the Tomb of the Unknown Soldier. The guards, known as Evzones, wear traditional uniforms and march in slow, synchronized steps.

If you have extra time, the National Archaeological Museum is highly recommended. It’s known for its incredible collection of ancient Greek artifacts.

Or, if you’d rather escape the city and take in some coastal views, consider booking a half-day trip to Cape Sounion instead. This scenic drive takes you to the Temple of Poseidon, perched on a cliff overlooking the Aegean Sea. Tours typically last about 4-5 hours. You can either book a tour that stays for sunset or reserve an earlier time in order to beat the crowds and still make it back to Athens in time for dinner.

Evening: Dinner with a View

For your first dinner in Athens, I recommend GH Attikos Restaurant, a rooftop gem with authentic Greek food and stunning views of the Acropolis. Be sure to make a reservation or arrive early – this spot is incredibly popular at sunset. 

Day 2: Ancient History & Sunset Views

Morning: Acropolis Guided Tour

If you are traveling in the warmer months, you will want to start your day early to beat the heat (and the crowds)! While you can enter without a certified guide, I highly recommend booking a guided tour of the Acropolis. The one with Athens Walking Tours also offers optional admission to the Acropolis Museum, which is definitely worth a visit. Our guide was engaging and knowledgeable, and it was the perfect way to learn more about Athens’ incredible history.

Midday: Acropolis Museum, Temple of Olympian Zeus & Hadrian’s Arch

After your visit to the Acropolis, head over to the Acropolis Museum to cool off and dive deeper into the history behind the ruins you’ve just seen. The museum is beautifully designed, with views of the Acropolis itself, and it does an excellent job connecting the dots between the museum artifacts and the monuments outside.

If you still have the energy for more ruins, make your way to the nearby Temple of Olympian Zeus. Once one of the largest temples in the ancient world, only a handful of columns remain, but you can still get a sense of just how massive and impressive this site once was. The Arch of Hadrian is also worth a stop, even if just for a photo!

Afternoon: Snack Break

Fuel up with a cup of fresh Greek yogurt from Fresko Yogurt Bar and try loukoumades (Greek donuts!) from LUKUMAΔΕΣ.

Evening: Sunset Picnic & A Final Walk Through Plaka

Many visitors head to Mount Lycabettus for sunset, and it’s easy to see why. The hill is perched high above Athens and offers a dramatic view, but it also draws large crowds, requires a longer trek from the main historic center, and it takes a pricey funicular ride to reach the top. 

Pro Tip: If you are planning to watch the sunset from Mount Lycabettus, skip the cable car to the top and opt for a taxi instead. On my first trip to Athens I took the cable car expecting scenic views, but it’s enclosed in a tunnel with no windows. A cab ride is about the same price as the funicular.

If you’re looking for a more peaceful and convenient alternative to Mount Lycabettus, I highly recommend packing a few snacks and heading to the Hill of the Nymphs instead. This less-popular location is just a short walk from Plaka and the Acropolis, and the views are just as stunning. It’s the perfect place for a sunset picnic.

Stop by a local shop or souvlaki stand on your way and grab some gyros, olives, fruit, or a cold drink to enjoy at the top. The path to the hill takes you through Pnyx Park, where you’ll pass ruins like the Prison of Socrates and the Themistoclean Wall. When you reach the top, find a spot on the rocks, unpack your snacks, and take in the view as the sun sets over Athens. 

After sunset, take one last leisurely stroll through the streets of Plaka, stopping for a late-night gelato or browsing for last-minute souvenirs, before returning to your hotel. Get a good night’s sleep before your flight home or the next leg of your Greek adventure (like to Santorini or another Greek island). 

Final Thoughts

Unfortunately, many people skip over Athens in favor of the islands, but this city has so much to offer. Even with just two days, you can experience a great mix of history, culture, and incredible food all within walking distance. It’s a destination that’s absolutely worth your time!

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