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Athens Itinerary 2 Days: Is It Really Possible?

Yes, dear reader, an Athens 2 day Itinerary really is possible since you actually can see most of Athens’ top attractions in just two days!

I know, totally crazy but totally true! But 48 hours in Athens is plenty of time to explore this ancient capital since the historic center of Athens is quite small and very walkable.

Throw in a metro system that is easy to navigate, and you can experience a ton of amazing things even if you only have one or two days in Athens in December.

So in this post, you’ll learn about all the top things to do in Athens, and how to experience these magical places in a very limited amount of time (so you can spend more time on amazing Greek islands like Mykonos and Santorini); places like the Acropolis, the Acropolis Museum, the Temple of Zeus, and Hadrian’s Arch.

So if You’re Picking Up What I’m Throwing Down then read on because this Athens itinerary is for you as I reveal must know facts about the Acropolis

Pro Tip: If you want to get away from Athens and explore other parts of Greece, then consider planning your own trip to Meteora, Greece. It is a unique place that is filled with exquisite scenery and stunning monasteries that are unlike anything else in the world. ***

This post may contain affiliate links. Please see my disclosure for more information. As an Amazon Associate, I earn a small commission from qualifying purchases. 

⏰ Looking for some epic things to do in Athens? I would recommend prebooking your visit to the Acropolis. Not only do you avoid lines, it also disappointment if they are sold out! ⏰

Want To Stay At Some Of The Best Hotels In Athens?

Then check out the reasonably priced but totally luxurious Elia Ermou Athens Hotel 4-star hotel (rooms here are less than $150 per night). Otherwise, if you’re looking for something a little more budget-friendly, then check out City Circus Athens or Athens Studios.

Athens Itinerary Day One (You Can Easily Make This Into a One Day Athens Itinerary)

Hey Athens, Greece, if you could stop being so beautiful then that would make going home a lot easier. We’re Gonna be Starting Early so I eat at your hotel or buy something the night before so that you can quickly eat and go.

Visit The Famous Acropolis

The Odeion of Herodes Atticus is not to be missed during any visit to the Acropolis.
The Odeion of Herodes Atticus is not to be missed during any visit to the Acropolis.

⭐️ Rating: 4.2/5 (1,431 Reviews) Price: $27 per person Duration: Valid for 1 day 📍Meeting Point: Meeting point may vary depending on the option booked. Details: Read more on Get Your Guide Now!

Let’s start our day at the most famous site in all of Athens, the Acropolis. It’s big, it’s beautiful and it’s insanely crowded (which is one of the reasons why you may want to visit Athens in the spring).

Therefore one of my top tips for visiting the Acropolis is to go as early as humanly possible, especially in the summer.

“Easy to purchase and 100% when they say you SKIP THE LINE! I turned up at about 8.30am and there weren’t many people in the line but when I left at 10am there were at least 70/80. Buying my ticket online and being able to just show it at the gate saved me a lot of time if I had turned up later.”

Adam (read more reviews now!)

Plus, if you arrive early enough, you can catch some of the golden hour sunlight (I’m talking 8 am early) and take some amazing photos.

Also, try and enter the Acropolis via the East entrance (right across from the Acropolis Museum), since this access point is smaller and less crowded than the main entrance.

After drooling over the Parthenon’s beauty and before you leave, stop by the Theatre of Dionysus, as well as the Odeion of Herodes Atticus, and experience some truly awe-inspiring examples of ancient architectural beauty.

Pro Tip: I also recommend purchasing a skip the line ticket or booking an early morning guided tour so that you can fully appreciate the enormity of the architectural magnificence in front of you). This way you can avoid not only the oppressive heat but the masses of self-involved tourists too (I got accosted by more than one selfie stick here)!

Have A Delicious Greek Lunch At OThansis

Lunch (nom nom nom): Try OThansis for some authentic Greek food that won’t deplete your bank account.

Opened in 1964 and conveniently located at the foot of the Acropolis, this iconic Athens eatery is known throughout the city for its amazing kebabs, Souvlaki, roasted peppers, and salads; a true haven of authenticity in an overwhelmingly touristy area.

A reservation is also necessary, especially if you don’t want to end up on the sidewalk, waiting for a table.

Pro Tip: If O Thansis is too crowded, you can also try Orea Hellas; a traditional Greek coffee shop with great desserts, tapas, and an amazing view of the Acropolis.

Get Your Culture Fix At The Acropolis Museum

⭐️ Rating: 4.5/5 (226 Reviews) Price: $21 per person Duration: Valid for 1 day 📍Meeting Point: Entrance of the Acropolis museum Details: Read more on Get Your Guide Now!

After a nice, relaxing lunch, let’s escape the oppressive, mid-day heat of Athens, shall we? Yeah, I hate the heat, so that’s why I suggest retreating to the airconditioned comfort of the Acropolis Museum.

When I visited the Acropolis Museum, I was struck by the modernity of a museum that displays so many relics from the ancient past.

Just look through the plexiglass floor and you’ll see the ruins of a once vibrant Athenian community. It is this distinctive, architectural style that separates this museum from the Acropolis itself, even though this building publicly displays any surviving Acropolis relics that are still in Greek possession.

And while yes, this museum does display artifacts from the Archaic and Roman periods, (now we’re sounding fancy. Just think one word, OLD), the primary focus of this museum is on the Acropolis of the 5th century BC.Just some of the beautiful antiquities that you will find in the Acropolis Museum.

“Wonderful! Beautiful, bright, very modern and interesting. A very cool place, recommended for a hot afternoon. This is the place to go when it’s too hot to be outside at other archaeological sites. Buy your tickets in advance and avoid the long ticketing line!”

Susan (read more reviews now!)

Before you explore the museum, take some time to appreciate the artifacts in the foyer gallery (painted vases, votive offerings from the sanctuaries of the Gods, etc.), as well as the kickass, ascending glass floor that simulates the climb up the sacred hill of the Acropolis.

Next, head up to the 1st-floor or the Archaic Gallery, a virtual labyrinth of ancient statues that were created as ceremonial offerings to the God Athena.

Finally you’ll conclude your visit with a trip to the top floor, known as the Parthenon Gallery (if you’re short on time just head straight here). 

Here you’ll find a glass atrium that houses a 160m-long frieze that has been masterfully restored to its former glory. The beauty of this exhibit is that you get to see the very top of the Pantheon at eye level, a magical experience that wouldn’t be possible without this exhibit and museum.

Head To Plaka

Once you’ve had your fill of the Museum wander through the charming neighborhood of Plaka, one of the many non-touristy things to do in Athens. Explore the quaint streets here and take in some of the traditional Greek architecture, expertly adorned with cascades of vibrantly colored flowers.

Just a tiny taste of some of the amazing street art that you can find in the neighborhood of Plaka.
Just a tiny taste of some of the amazing street art that you can find in the neighborhood of Plaka.

Before you move on, don’t forget to grab some photos of the amazing street art here and to stroll along Adrianou where you’ll find some awesome souvenirs for friends and family back home (buy something nice for yourself too!).

Changing Of The Guard At Plateia Syntagmatos

Done with Day 1! Kidding!! Next up we’ll mosey on over to Plateia Syntagmatos for the changing of the guards at the Tomb of the Unknown Soldier. I actually just happened across this ceremony as I was walking past the parliament building.

I saw a huge crowd gathered (I knew they were tourists from the backpacks, sneakers, and ultra zoom camera lenses at the ready) and being overly susceptible to mob mentality, I just HAD to see what all the fuss was about.

Well not only were their outfits AMAZING (they sure know how to strut their stuff with those pom-pom shoes) but the soldiers did this elaborate dance-like sequence that is difficult to describe. Just know that there was a lot of leg lifting and foot swiping along the ground.

Athens has one of the coolest changing of the guard ceremonies that I have ever seen.

Visit The Temple Of Zeus

After the ceremony is over (this ceremony occurs every hour on the hour), walk over to the Temple of Zeus which is right down the street And while yes, the complex isn’t huge and the temple isn’t complete, it’s still well worth a visit.

Why? Just looking at the massive columns on display (they put the ass in massive), you get a sense of the scale, scope, and size of the temples that were created in ancient Athens; the only way to develop true appreciation for the amount of work that went into creating these beautiful structures.

Plus the Temple of Zeus is a fantastic place to grab an amazing photo of the Temple of Zeus with the Acropolis in the background (your Instagram followers will thank you). The exquisite view of the Acropolis from the Temple of Zeus.

Just Outside the Temple fo Zeus (quite literally a hop, skip, and jump away), you’ll find Hadrian’s Arch.

Not shockingly, this arch was created by the Roman emperor Hadrian, who had an affinity for classic architecture and who used this arch as a way to delineate where the ancient city ended and the modern, Roman City began.

Dinner At Strofi

Starving Yet? No worries because Hadrian’s Arch won’t take long. From here walk back towards the Acropolis for dinner at Strofi; a fantastic, traditional Greek restaurant that has been serving grilled meats and fish since 1975.

Since  I don’t eat meat or fish I stuck with the bread, spicy cream cheese, grilled halloumi cheese with fresh tomato in an olive oil lemon sauce, and fried Feta cheese in phyllo dough with honey and sesame. Talk about making my tastebuds sing.

Be forewarned this place is incredibly popular, so book ahead for a rooftop, Parthenon view that is the stuff that Hallmark dreams are made of.

Pro Tip: What, all that wasn’t enough for you? Curious about what to do in 2 days in Athens? Well, if you need something else to do that is very non-essential, try visiting the Pantheon Stadium. This facility hosted the first modern Olympic Games in 1896 and is a great way to learn about the history of the games.

Is it essential? No. Is it one of the more touristy things to do in Athens? Yes. So you can stop by if you have the time but don’t feel like it is essential.

If you have a little extra time, the Pantheon Stadium is another fun place to explore, even if it is a bit touristy.
If you have a little extra time, the Pantheon Stadium is another fun place to explore, even if it is a bit touristy.

Day 2 of This Super Snazzy Athens Itinerary

Let’s start this day off right with breakfast at iFeel Athens. This amazing brunch restaurant serves delicious and healthy breakfast items like egg white omelets, eggs benedict, eggs Florentine, and more!

Browse Through Monastiraki Flea Market

A great place to stop since it is an easy walk to Monastiraki Flea Market from here. Once you’ve had your fill of eggy deliciousness, stroll through the flea market and marvel at some of the unique antiques that are for sale in this historic place.

Just be mindful of pick pockets because yes, they are everywhere and ready to steal your money. But we’re going early so the market is much easier to navigate since it’s less crowded and easier to stroll through the narrow streets and see what the vendors have to offer.

Visit The Ancient Agora

The ancient Agora is a must-see for anyone visiting Athens for the first time.
The ancient Agora is a must-see for anyone visiting Athens for the first time.

⭐️ Rating: 4.1/5 (43 Reviews) Price: $40 per person Duration: 1.5 hours 📍Meeting Point: The audio tour starts at the main entrance of the Ancient Agora. Details: Read more on Get Your Guide Now!

Once you’re finished exploring the many shops with overpriced souvenirs here (Kidding but there definitely are a ton of shops like this), let’s Make Our Way Over to the Amazing, Ancient Agora!

Now I’m not gonna lie. When I saw the word “Agora” I was like huh? Is that some sort of new age pick up line?

“Audio tour was fantastic!”

Kami (read more reviews now!)

Nope. Apparently, the Agora was the commercial center of ancient Athens. Here administrative, commercial, political and social buildings were concentrated into a small but vibrant area.

Today this enchanting complex is a haven of greenery and ancient ruins amidst the trash, graffiti, decaying buildings, and stray dogs and cats that roam this urban jungle. Take your time and wander through the expansive grounds because there is a lot to take in here.

Between the charming monuments, the Temple of Hephaistos, a museum full of ancient art, and the Byzantine Church of the Holy Apostles (Built in the 10th century and a must see, for anyone visiting Athens for the first time, with its Byzantine-style frescos and Islamic style decorations), this place really is a dream for anyone who loves history.

Head Over To Kallipateira

Once you’ve done enough walking and feel like your feet are gonna fall off, stroll on over to Kallipateira, for some gastronomic authenticity amidst a sea of tourist traps. Once here, you can relax and enjoy a lovely view of the nearby ruins.

Served here are a variety of traditional, Greek small plates that include octopus with vinegar, eggplant filled with cheese, squid served with feta and tomatoes, and delightful zucchini balls.

A great place to replenish after enduring the chaotic frenzy of this tourist mecca. One of the many archeological gems that you’ll find in the National Archeological Museum of Athens.

National Archeological Museum

⭐️ Rating: 5/5 (17 Reviews) Price: $164.18 per person Duration: 2 hours 📍Meeting Point: Main entrance of the museum. Details: Read more on Get Your Guide Now!

After your meal, hop on the subway at Monastēraki station and get off at Patēsiōn. The National Archeological Museum is only about a two-minute walk from here

Now sure this museum is slightly out of the way but absolutely worth the trip since this center of archaeology houses one of the world’s finest collections of classical Greek antiquities.

I know that statement may not mean much on paper, but as you enter this museum and feel the sheer enormity of this building, the true weight of this statement hits you.

“I highly recommend taking a guided tour of this museum, especially speaking as someone who doesn’t typically seek out museums. We really got to learn the context and significance of all the artifacts and sculptures in the museum and how that relates to the history of ancient and modern Greece, all in a way that simply wouldn’t be possible without a guide. If you are going to Athens, you should take this tour.”

Kristin (read more reviews now!)

And trust me that’s a lot of weight since this building houses over 11,000 items (I don’t think I’ve ever had 11,000 of anything. Except maybe calories on Thanksgiving) that stretch from the Neolithic era (think caveman) to classical periods of Greek history.

An exquisite reminder of just how ancient, and long lasting this civilization was and is. Whatever you do though, don’t assume you’ll just whirl through this museum in an hour because no way is that gonna happen. I would spend at least the afternoon here since Greek treasures are just at the start of the collection.

Dinner At Mavro Provato

After such a busy day, you deserve to relax and enjoy some amazing Greek food, like this delicious Greek salad.
After such a busy day, you deserve to relax and enjoy some amazing Greek food, like this delicious Greek salad.

After all that history and touring, a nice dinner at Mavro Provato is a must! Just book ahead because this modern Greek restaurant, in Pangrati, is quite popular.

Here tables line a quaint footpath and delicious entrees are served, such as Saganaki with honey, Kritharoto with mushrooms, Almirikia, Choriatiki, and beef with eggplant puree in tomato sauce, just to name a few.

Just make sure you save room for some of their beautiful, homemade desserts (my favorite part).

Pro Tip: If you want to extend your stay and create a 3 day Athens Itinerary, then I highly recommend booking a day trip to the exquisite ruins at Delphi.

Between the hilltop museum, the jaw-dropping ruins, the famous amphitheater, and the Temple of Apollo, The only thing you’ll regret is that the day ended much too soon. 

Athens Itinerary 2 Days FAQ

Are 2 Days Enough For Athens?

Athens has loads to see and do. If you ask my honest opinion, you will not be able to cover it all in two days. Should you travel to Athens if you have just two days? Yes you should! This is because while you may not be able to see the whole city, you will be able to cover the highlights of the area.

Plus, Athens is insanely beautiful. It has amazing people, interesting structures and delicious food. How can you say no to that?

What Is The Best Month To Visit Athens?

The best time to visit Athens is either between March and May or September and November. This is when the summer heat has abated and the holiday rush has died down because all the kids are back in school.

Is Athens A Walkable City?

Athens is an extremely walkable city. If for some reason, you feel that you cannot head to your desired location on foot, you can always take a mode of public transport. 

How Do You Get From Athens To Santorini?

There are loads of direct flights that fly from Athens to Santorni. This makes getting to both places extremely easy. I would recommend booking your flights in advance in order to get the best price.

⏰ Looking for some epic things to do in Athens? I would recommend prebooking your visit to the Acropolis. Not only do you avoid lines, it also disappointment if they are sold out! ⏰

Athens Itinerary 2 Days Map

Click here for the whole map

And that completes my rather extensive Athens 2 day itinerary. Sorry, but I just never know when to stop talking, or typing as the case may be. But hopefully, you’ve learned a great deal about Athens, Greece travel and where to find some of the best Athens, Greece food. 

So ready to plan your next Greece vacation? Then pin this now and read it again later!

Planning a Greece vacation and in need of an Athens 2 day itinerary? Well, then you're in luck because this post details the top things to do in Athens, Greece travel and where to find some of the best Athens, Greece food. So grab a pair of walking shoes and prepare to explore such amazing places as the Acropolis, the Temple of Zeus, Hadrian's Arch, the Acropolis Museum, and more. #greece #athens #travel #wanderlust #itinerary
Planning a Greece vacation and in need of an Athens 2 day itinerary? Well, then you're in luck because this post details the top things to do in Athens, Greece travel and where to find some of the best Athens, Greece food. So grab a pair of walking shoes and prepare to explore such amazing places as the Acropolis, the Temple of Zeus, Hadrian's Arch, the Acropolis Museum, and more. #greece #athens #travel #wanderlust #itinerary
 
 

Kartik Dodia

Thursday 24th of February 2022

Love your article. Thank for sharing some helpful tips.

girlwiththepassport

Thursday 24th of February 2022

Thank you for reading! I am so glad you found this article useful.

Rose

Wednesday 28th of August 2019

Enjoyed your blog on Athens. Visiting Athens for 3 nights. We arrive at around 10 am from Chania and check to our apartment rental. By the time we get going, it will likely be by lunch time. Thinking of doing your Day 1 activities on our second day. Any suggestions on what we should do on our first day to familiarize ourselves with the city?

girlwiththepassport

Wednesday 28th of August 2019

I would hang out around the Acropolis. There's a lot to do in that area and it's pretty centrally located so you can walk through Plaka too.

Yovita Furtado

Wednesday 16th of January 2019

Njoyed ur blog ..very informative ...thanks ..

girlwiththepassport

Wednesday 16th of January 2019

Thanks so much!

Elif

Tuesday 25th of September 2018

Hey Kelly , i am going to Athens on 9th October Your posts helping me about my to do list . This blog is my first travel blog that i read without my mother language . Thank you for all inspireing to me . Well maybe you miss something if you didnt come yet to Turkey . Come and see Our hospitality and legend foods and so many history culture , add my country in your to go list :)

Best Wishes from a Turkish Girl

Elif

girlwiththepassport

Friday 28th of September 2018

I sure will and thank you so much for commenting. Turkey is high on my list and I have heard amazing things about your country. I hope I get to visit soon!

Comments are closed.