2 Days in Athens: Ancient & Modern Delights

Experience the birthplace of Western civilization in Athens, Greece.

03 May 2023

A trip to Athens, Greece as a tourist is a perfect blend of ancient history and modern culture. You can explore famous landmarks such as the Acropolis Museum, Parthenon, and Ancient Agora. The city is also home to vibrant neighborhoods, delicious cuisine, and stunning beaches.

Travel plan

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Day 1

Exploring Ancient Athens

  • Stay: Hotel Grande Bretagne This historic hotel offers luxurious rooms and a rooftop bar with incredible views of the Acropolis.
  • Start the day with a visit to the Acropolis to see the Parthenon and other ancient temples.
  • Explore the Ancient Agora, the heart of ancient Athens' social and political life.
  • Visit the Temple of Olympian Zeus, the largest temple in ancient Greece.
  • Head to the National Archaeological Museum to see an impressive collection of ancient Greek artifacts.
  • Have lunch at the charming Plaka neighborhood, where traditional Greek tavernas line the streets.
  • End the day with a stroll through Monastiraki Flea Market, a bustling bazaar with vendors selling everything from vintage clothing to jewelry.
Day 2

Modern Athens & Sunset Views

  • Stay: St. George Lycabettus This trendy boutique hotel offers stylish rooms and stunning views of the city from its rooftop restaurant.
  • Start the day with a visit to the Benaki Museum, which showcases Greek art and culture from ancient times to the present day.
  • Take a walk along Ermou Street, Athens' main shopping avenue, lined with high-end fashion brands and local shops.
  • Enjoy a delicious lunch at Karamanlidika tou Fani, a unique deli and restaurant that specializes in Greek charcuterie and wine.
  • Visit the trendy Koukaki neighborhood for a glimpse of modern Athens' thriving arts scene, with galleries and street art lining the streets.
  • Head up Mount Lycabettus to watch the sunset and enjoy breathtaking views of the city from above.
  • For dinner, head to Kuzina, a chic restaurant with contemporary Greek cuisine and a stunning Acropolis view.

How to get there

Plane

The best way to get to Athens, Greece by plane is to fly into Athens International Airport, also known as Eleftherios Venizelos International Airport. It is the largest airport in Greece and is served by multiple airlines from around the world.

Car

The best way to get to Athens by car is to take the Egnatia Odos highway if you are coming from the north of Greece. From the south of Greece, take the A7 highway. There are also several toll stations along the highways.

Train

There is no direct train to Athens from outside Greece. However, you can take a train to Thessaloniki, and then take a connecting train to Athens. The journey takes about 5 hours and the main station in Athens is the Larissa railway station.

Boat

The best way to get to Athens by boat is to take a ferry from some of the Greek islands. The main ports in Athens are Piraeus and Rafina ports. Ferries travel regularly from popular islands like Santorini, Mykonos, and Crete.

Bus

The best way to get to Athens by bus is to take a long-distance bus from major cities in Europe. The main bus station in Athens is Kifissos Bus Terminal. There are also domestic buses that connect Athens with other parts of Greece.

More travel plans

5-Day Adventure: Athens, Greece & Beyond

As a tourist, visiting Athens is a must for history enthusiasts as it offers a wealth of ancient monuments and ruins such as The Acropolis, Parthenon, and Ancient Agora. In addition to cultural sights, visitors can also enjoy the lively city center with its vibrant nightlife and indulgent street food scene. For an overall authentic experience, it's recommended to take strolls around local neighborhoods such as Plaka and Monastiraki to gape at Greek architecture, colorful alleys, and souvenir shops.

Athens Unleashed: 4 Day Family Adventure on a Budget

Experience the ancient wonders and vibrant culture of Athens on a family-friendly trip. Explore the majestic Acropolis, where kids can marvel at the grandeur of the Parthenon and discover fascinating myths and legends. From captivating museums to delightful outdoor parks, Athens offers a perfect blend of educational and recreational activities for a memorable family adventure.

Discover Athens: A 4-Day Adventure!

Experience a romantic getaway to Athens, Greece, where stunning ancient landmarks, diverse cuisine and breathtaking views come together to create an unforgettable vacation. Stroll through the picturesque streets of Plaka, explore the iconic landmarks such as the Acropolis and the Parthenon, and savor delicious Greek food and ambience at a cozy taverna. Indulge in the city's vibrant nightlife and take in breathtaking sunset views from the rooftop bars.

Experience a Weekend of Romance in Athens

: Athens is a city that embodies classic romance with its ancient ruins, historical architecture, and stunning views of the Mediterranean. Walk hand in hand through the Parthenon and the Acropolis or visit the Temple of Olympian Zeus for a truly magical experience. Spend your evenings indulging in authentic Greek cuisine in the Plaka district, while admiring the beauty of the city lights.