Spending a weekend in Athens and not sure where to start? Don’t worry; we’ve got you covered! Get ready to explore the city's best spots and historical landmarks, all in just two days.
The best way to see Athens in an authentic way is on foot! Walk through its lively streets and discover a city full of history, charm, and surprises at every step.
Kick off your day with a visit to the Acropolis, Athens’ most iconic landmark that you simply can’t miss! To make the most out of your experience, be there early in the morning to beat the crowds and enjoy some peaceful moments wandering around before the heat sets in, especially during summer.
Once at the top, take your time to explore the breathtaking Parthenon, the Temple of Athena Nike, and the Erechtheion, famous for its stunning Caryatids—the standing female statues serving as supporting columns.
Before you go, make sure you take a moment to enjoy the stunning 360° view of Athens! Spot great landmarks like Lycabettus Hill, the Temple of Olympian Zeus, and even the Athenian riviera stretching from Sounion to Piraeus.
Just a less than 10 minutes walking from the Acropolis, head to the Acropolis Museum for a journey into Greece’s rich history. Situated at the base of Acropolis Hill, the Acropolis Museum displays various artifacts that reflect the daily, religious, and political life of ancient Athenians, who considered the Acropolis as their cultural and spiritual center.
You can find more information, check any updates and buy your tickets online on the website here
After your museum visit, the best way to relax is to stroll and wander around in one of the oldest districts of Athens, Plaka. While losing your way walking on the narrow streets among neoclassical buildings, you will come across many important historical highlights, cafes, and restaurants.
Don’t miss the tiny neighborhood of Anafiotina inside Plaka, which is full of picturesque houses, cafes and restaurants.
Small tip: Plaka is one of the best areas to buy authentic souvenirs!
One of the most popular cafes is Giasemi, where you may drink greek coffee while enjoying some greek traditional deserts.
Alternatively, you can get a coffee or dine in Monastiraki, where trendy restaurants, street food, and local tavernas bring a lively, modern vibe to your Athens experience. A visit there adds a refreshing contrast to the history you’ve explored in Plaka, giving you a well-rounded taste of the city.
Enjoy traditional Greek dishes like souvlaki or moussaka at one of the many rooftop bars and restaurants with stunning views to the Acropolis.
Be sure to make some time for the Monastiraki Flea Market, the perfect place to buy antiques, handmade crafts, clothes and souvenirs.
As it’s one of the most alive and touristic neighborhoods for all day, check out some good bars and restaurants like:
The Clumsies (ranked among the world’s best bars)
A for Athens or Couleur Locale
Baba Au Rum
Buena Vista Social Bar
On your way back, make your last stop at Syntagma Square, passing through Ermou Street, Athens' most bustling shopping avenue, where you'll find everything from international brands to unique local boutiques for some shopping. Once at Syntagma, take a moment to look at the Hellenic Parliament building and get the chance to watch the Changing of the Guards ceremony in front of the Tomb of the Unknown Soldier (it takes place every hour).
Start your second day at the Panathenaic Stadium (Kallimarmaro), the site of the first modern Olympic Games that took place in 1896.
Interesting fact: The Panathenaic Stadium is one of the few stadiums in the world built entirely of marble. Its name, ‘Kallimarmaro’, literally means “beautiful marble” in Greek.
Walk to the Temple of Olympian Zeus, alternatively named Olimpeion, or the house of Olympus, the largest temple in ancient Greece. It was dedicated to Zeus, the king of the Olympian Gods. Today, you can admire 16 of the 104 Corinthian columns that survived, showcasing the temple's typical Greek architectural style, built with Pentelic marble.
Get to know more and purchase your ticket from the official website here.
Interested in art?
Make your way to the National Museum of Contemporary Art for a dose of contemporary Greek and international art.
Apart from the exhibition or performance you choose to attend, take some time to explore the building itself, as it is housed in the former FIX brewery, where historical architecture seamlessly blends with modern design to enhance your cultural experience.
Check current exhibitions and tickets on the official website here.
Next stop? Koukaki! This up-and-coming trendy yet laid-back neighborhood offers a mix of cozy cafés and bars, art galleries, and boutique shops. Spend some time exploring its charming streets, including Dionysiou Areopagitou, a scenic pedestrian street for a relaxing afternoon walk with a view of the Acropolis. While in Koukaki, visit the Onassis Cultural Centre, where you can check out exciting events and exhibitions.
To wrap up your day and unwind, get to Filopappou Hill! Reach the top of the hill, the best spot for some of the best panoramic views of Athens, including the Acropolis, and the surrounding hills.
Filopappou Hill is considered an ideal escape from the hustle and bustle of the city, allowing you to distance yourself and reconnect with nature, surrounded by tranquil paths and lush greenery.
The perfect time to visit is during sunset, when locals gather to relax, taking in the calming atmosphere while gazing over the city from above.