Athens is an amazing destination with rich history, amazing food, and vibrant culture. It is a city where visitors can see where modern democracy was born, see some of the iconic ancient Greek landmarks, and enjoy a cuisine celebrated for its use of fresh ingredients, Mediterranean flavors, and healthy options all in one day.

Many visitors only spend one day in Athens or 2 on their way coming to or from a trip visiting some of the popular Greek islands or before hopping on a Virgin Voyage or other cruise from the port in Athens. While it’s worth planning a couple of days in Athens, a lot can be seen during a one-day trip.

Here is our one day in Athens itinerary, along with an easy-to-follow free map and travel tips. 

 

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Where to Stay in Athens For a Day

Before we get into the specifics of the itinerary, it is crucial to find the most suitable accommodation considering the short time you will be staying.

With only 24 hours in Athens, you should stay in the city center, that is to say in the districts of Plaka, Monastiraki, Syntagma, or Psiri. Here are some good recommendations that will allow you to easily follow this itinerary:

✅ Best Hotel – Mythodea Athens Suites: this huge apartment boasts an excellent location in Monastiraki and offers top-notch equipment, stylish modern decor, and some units even come with a balcony and a view. You will feel like in a 5-star in this place, which actually has an unbelievable rating of 9.9/10.

💰 Best Budget Hotel – Kimon Hotel Athens: this place is the best value for money accommodation you could find in Athens. Right inside Plaka, this hotel offers everything you could need and even some extra (balcony, roof terrace with view…) for a very affordable price.

✨ Best Luxury Hotel – NYX Esperia Palace Hotel Athens by Leonardo Hotels: located in the Syntagma neighborhood, this 5-star hotel is simply perfect. The rooftop restaurant and the rooftop pool both provide stunning views of the Acropolis, which is reason enough to book your stay at this place.

Compare accommodation prices in Athens on Booking.com

 

 

view of athens

 

How to Get Around in Athens

The last thing to clear up to make this Athens one day itinerary work is transportation. Several possibilities are available to you:

🚶 Walk: Getting around the heart of Athens can be a bit bustling – streets are often one-way, traffic can be a challenge, and sidewalks might not be in their prime. But walking is,  by far, the easiest and most pleasant way to visit the city center. Especially if you are spending only 1 day in Athens. 

The charming narrow streets of the old town are perfect for leisurely strolls, and you will find some pedestrian zones in places like Plaka, Acropolis, Tisio, and Monastiraki.

🚎 Public transport: The public transport network includes trains, metros, streetcars, and trolleybuses. This network not only offers efficient travel but also proves cost-effective thanks to budget-friendly fares, especially for longer journeys.

Metro, tram, bus, and trolleybuses all use the same ticket, which is really convenient. There are 3 types of tickets available at any of the city’s transport stations: the reusable paper ticket, the anonymous card, and the named card. 

Since you are visiting Athens in one day only, the paper ticket will be more than sufficient. Opting for the 24-hour ticket, priced at a mere €4.10, grants you unlimited access to all modes of public transportation. The best is to mix walking with public transport so as not to exhaust yourself too much.

Just be aware that the Airport express buses don’t fall under this coverage. You have to buy a separate ticket which is €5.5 (one way) for the Express bus line or 9€ (one way) for the Metro Airport ticket. 

🚌 Hop-on hop-off bus: During rainy or extremely hot days, you might consider the hop-on-hop-off bus. These buses cover all the well-known attractions of the city every 15 or 30 minutes, allowing you to board and disembark as often as you wish. And it is a very efficient way to visit Athen’s best sights in a day. Book here.

🚕 Taxi: Of course, there are cabs everywhere in Athens, so you can simply flag them down and tell them where you want to go. However, you should know that during peak hours, taxi drivers may carry more than one person, so you may have to share. If this is the case, make sure you share the cost so you don’t pay for yourself and all the other passengers. 

 

1 Day in Athens Free Map

I’ve made a map of this 1-day itinerary in Athens to make it super easy for you to follow, especially while you’re exploring.

Get it for free right here! 👇

 

Now, keep scrolling to discover this Athens in one day itinerary in details + insider tips👇  

 

Athens in One Day Step-by-Step Itinerary

I recommend being at the first step of this route at 9 am at the latest so you can enjoy Athens to the fullest.

I have included breakfast in this Athens 1 day itinerary because it is going to be a busy day. But if you are not much of a breakfast person, start the day earlier and make sure to pack some snacks along to keep you going through the morning.

Enjoy your day!

 

9 am – Try a traditional Greek breakfast

Start at or before 9:00 am; allow about 30 minutes

trying a greek breakfast is a must if you spend one day in athens greece

 

First, take advantage of the amazing Greek food. Start with a Greek coffee, the freddo, which is an iced coffee, or a freddo cappuccino for an iced coffee with milk.

The simple ingredients shine for breakfast like Greek yogurt with honey, nuts, and fresh fruit. Another typical breakfast item is a flakey Greek pastry that can be savory with a cheese filling or sweet with a custard filling.

Sin Athina or The Underdog are nice spots to indulge in Greek breakfast in Athens, both located only 10 minutes walk away from the Acropolis. But some accommodations also offer great breakfasts too, so it is worth exploring what is available at your place of stay beforehand!

 

9.45 am – Visit the Acropolis

Allow about 90 minutes

parthenon is a must of your athens one day itinerary

The Parthenon

The first stop of the day should be the Acropolis, the most popular landmark and tourist attraction in Athens. Getting there as early as possible will help avoid the crowds and the heat of the day.

The Acropolis is an ancient citadel set on a hill and a UNESCO World Heritage site. Entering it allows you to explore iconic structures like the Parthenon, the Erechtheion, and the Propylaea.

The most famous of them, the Parthenon, is an ancient temple dedicated to the goddess Athena Parthenos, the patron deity of Athens was built in the 5th century BCE and is renowned for its classical Doric architecture and intricate decorative sculptures.

Nearby is the Erechtheion which is dedicated to various mythological figures, including Athena and Poseidon. It is best known for the Caryatids, a group of six sculpted female figures that serve as supporting columns. These are actually replicas, but five of them are on display at a future stop in the itinerary.

 

erechtheion is a must for your 1 day in athens itinerary

Erechtheion

Completing the visit will include visiting the Propylaea, Temple of Athena Nike, and the Odeon of Herodes Atticus before moving on to the Acropolis Museum.

Buy tickets in advance to avoid lines at the ticket window. There are multiple pass options available including a pass that is just for the Acropolis, a combo of the Acropolis and Acropolis Museum, or a combo pass that includes admission into 6 additional museums. For this itinerary, get the Acropolis and Acropolis Museum combo since there will not be enough time to visit enough of the other attractions to make it worth the price.

Beware of marked-up tickets being touted as “Skip the line” tickets. These allow visitors to skip the line to purchase tickets on-site, which is included in any ticket purchased in advance.

 

🕗 Opening hours: From April to October: 8 am – 8 pm (last entry at 7.30 pm) / From November to March: 8 am – 5 pm (last entry at 4.30 pm)

💰 Entry fee: Acropolis 6 sites + Acropolis museum ticket costs €51,5

💸 Best deal: Acropolis and Museum Entry Tickets with Audio Guide

 

11.30 am – Acropolis Museum

Allow about 90 minutes

acropolis museum is a must for one day in athens itinerary

 

Now it is time to learn more about ancient Greece and see more artifacts related to the Acropolis. The modern museum is a 10-minute walk from the Acropolis that is designed to house and showcase the archaeological findings and artifacts from the Acropolis site.

The museum artifacts are well marked with explanations in English of their significance and separated based on time period.

Sculptured that previously lined the Parthenon are preserved here and are arranged as they were when in place on the temple. It really gives an idea of the grandeur of the Parthenon in its glory days. The previously mentioned Caryatids are here as well, positioned as they were originally, with a spot left for the Caryatids that was taken by Thomas Bruce, the seventh Lord Elgin, and now remains in the British Museum.

Not only is this the best museum in Athens, but it is airconditioned which might be appreciated depending on how deep the weather outside which can be very hot during high tourist seasons.

 

🕗 Opening hours: 8 or 9 am – 4 to 10 pm depending on seasons and days. 

💰 Entry fee: Acropolis 6 sites + Acropolis museum ticket costs €51,5

💸 Best deal: Acropolis and Museum Entry Tickets with Audio Guide

 

1.15 pm – Eat Lunch

Allow 1 hour

By now it should be time for lunch. Take the opportunity to eat some Greek classics.

 

trying souvlaki is in the top things to do in athens in one day

Traditional Slouvaki plate

Souvlaki is the most well-known street food which is skewered and grilled meat served with pita bread, tzatziki sauce, and some vegetables or french fries. Not only is it very flavorful but always tender. Moussaka is a baked dish with layers of eggplant, ground beef or lamb, potatoes, and a creme sauce. And of course, there is a Greek salad with feta, tomatoes, onions, olives, cucumbers, and olive oil. Best case scenario, order it all and share amongst travel friends.

To find a restaurant, there are several options within the line of restaurants outside the Acropolis Museum. There are also dozens of restaurants at the Athens Central Market or even more to choose from in the Plaka area.

 

2.30 pm – Explore Plaka

Allow 1 hour 

Plaka is a picturesque and popular neighborhood known for its winding sometimes narrow cobblestone streets that have been used for thousands of years.

 

plaka is a must of any athens in one day itinerary

 

The streets are lined with traditional tavernas, cafes, and restaurants where you can grab an afternoon freddo cappuccino or a scoop of gelato. It is also the best place in Athens to go shopping. While there are many shops with cheap goods, you’ll also find high-quality linen clothes, handmade leather sandals, and other quality products in boutiques.

If you happen to be there in the evening, the area becomes a party with traditional dance performances, among other things. 

 

3.45 pm –  See Syntagma Square’s Changing of the Guard

Allow 30 minutes

Next up is Syntagma Square where you can watch the guards called Evzones keeping the Tomb of the Unknown Soldier. The change of guard happens every hour.

 

syntagma square's evzones is one of the best things to see in athens in one day

 

If you are lucky and come by on a Sunday, modify the itinerary to come at 11 am when they have the official ceremony of the changing of the guards with the official dresses.

The square is located in front of the 19th-century Old Royal Palace which has housed the Greek Parliament since 1934.

 

4.15 pm – Walk through Athens National Garden

Allow 30 minutes

athens national garden

 

Crossing the street toward the Old Royal Palace, you will arrive at the Athens National Garden. Spend some time walking around here or getting some refuge from the sun under the trees.

There is a small cafe on one end of the gardens and within you will find ponds, fountains, and shaded paths. If you brought kids along there is even a playground for them there.

 

🕗 Opening hours: 6 am to 7 pm 

💰 Entry fee: Free

💡 Tip: the Athens Gardens Festival takes place here every year in June. Don’t miss it if you are there during this month! 

 

4.45 pm – Temple of Olympian Zeus

Allow 30 minutes

temple of olympian zeus

 

Across the street from the Athens National Garden is another area where the remnants of the Temple of Olympian Zeus are. The temple which was once the largest in Greece has since been left in ruins.

A corner of columns still stands to admire the size as well as a toppled column that gives you a better appropriations for the size and effort taken to construct such a building.

 

🕗 Opening hours: From April to October: 8 am – 7 pm / From November to March: 8 am – 3.30 pm. 

💰 Entry fee: €6/adult – €3/kids – free for European citizens under 25 

 

5.15 pm – Have a Break

loukoumades in athens

Loukoumades are Greek doughnuts served with honey or spread

At this point, it has been a long day for exploring Athens which would make anyone worn out and likely tired of the heat of mid-day.

This is a great time to take a power nap and a shower at your accommodations before heading out for the evening. 

Or, if you would rather make the most of every moment in the city, grab a gelato or any other delicious Greek snack and relax in the shade while you cool down and recharge. 

 

Option 1 – Watch the sunset at Areopagus Hill

Check the forecast to know when to expect sunset and arrive at least 30 minutes before; allow 60 minutes

view from the areopagus hill

View from the Areopagus Hill

If you still have some energy left for a last historical visit, make your way to Areopagus Hill for a stunning view of the sunset and the Acropolis.

Areopagus Hill is the place where the court was held in ancient Greece in cases of murder and where Saint Paul preached the famous “Sermon on an Unknown God”.

Eventually, make your way to dinner to finish off your Greek food checklist. Among the best restaurants close to the Areopagus Hill, there is the GH Attikos which has a beautiful terrace with a view over the Acropolis, and the Strofi Athenian Restaurant.   

 

Option 2 – Enjoy drinks & dinner with a view from a rooftop

Check the forecast to know when to expect sunset and arrive at least 20 to 30 minutes before 

Nothing beats a panoramic view of the whole city, especially the illuminated Acropolis, in a charming setting while enjoying a drink and dinner. Away from traffic and noise, the rooftops offer you a moment of relaxation, in the quiet yet right in the heart of the city center.

 

trying a rooftop is a must for your 24 hours in athens itinerary

 

Athens boasts an impressive array of terraces and rooftop bars, ensuring you’ll find the perfect spot to unwind in the evening. For a top recommendation, the Galaxy Bar stands out with its mesmerizing vistas, lively music, and inviting ambiance. Perched atop the Hilton Hotel in Athens, this bar is a must at sunset. The A for Athens bar is another great rooftop. 

Here is a tip: to secure your spot, try booking a table in advance whichever rooftop you choose, particularly for weekend visits.

💸 Best deal: Experience Athens at night like a local with 3-Course Meal

 

There you have them, the best things to see in Athens in one day!  For more advice and more points of interest, keep reading! 👇  

 

Best Athens One Day Tours & Experiences 

If you are a fan of guided tours and activities while exploring a new city, Athens won’t let you down, as it offers tons of options. Here are my top recommendations, tailored perfectly for a one-day adventure in Athens. 

 

Extending your Athens Trip

In the chance that you have more than one day in Athens, you can either choose to explore the city in greater depth or go on a day trip. 

 

Other Top Things to See in Athens 

Spending a single day in Athens may be sufficient, but it only scratches the surface of what the city has to offer. So this extra list of things to see in Athens encompasses more than just secondary sights: 

  • The Roman Agora and the Tower of the Winds, which was once a bustling hub for philosophy, politics, and commerce with its marble-pillared courtyard 
  • The National Archaeological Museum, housing an impressive collection of around 12,000 artworks spanning the Bronze Age, Cycladic, and Classical eras 
  • The Hill of the Muses and the Philopappos Monument, providing a sweeping panoramic view of the Acropolis from its elevated vantage point
  • Mount Lycabettus, another hill in the heart of Athens, famous for the legends told around its rock.
  • The Panathenaic Stadium, a historical treasure with over 2,500 years of remarkably preserved heritage.
  • The Temple of Hephaestus, a testament to ancient times, dating back to the 5th century B.C.
  • The Monastiraki district and its vibrant flea market, brimming with unique finds and local treasures.

 

panathenaic stadium

The Panathenaic Stadium

 

Best Day Trips from Athens

You can either book a day trip to take you to a nearby town or rent a car.

➡️ You can easily find day tours that will take you on cruises to a few islands nearby like Agistri, Moni, and Aegina, and include food, drinks, and time to swim and snorkel.

➡️ Another day trip worth making is to the UNESCO World Heritage site of Meteora where there are ancient clifftop monasteries.

➡️ For a laid-back day enjoying the water in the heat of the summer, check out the nearby beaches along the Athens Riviera either by car or with a cruise tour. 

If you choose to do it on your own by car, you will find several small hidden beaches amongst the cliffs or find a beach with chairs and umbrellas to rent as you go away from Athens. The further you go from the capital city, the less crowded the beaches will be.

One of the best is Kape Beach. It is no longer very hidden so it is best to get there early to get a good spot on the rocky beach if you come on the weekend or during the heat of the summer. There is also a nude beach on the other side of the rocks so you will notice people climbing over them to get to the other beach.

In the evening you can head to the nearby Posidens Temple to see the ruins, but also the scenic sea views and the amazing sunset which is perfect if you are on a romantic trip or even your honeymoon in Greece.

 

aegina is one of the best day trips from athens

Aegina is one of the best islands near Athens

 

FAQ About Visiting Athens

Is one day enough in Athens?

The answer to this question depends very much on your tastes and preferences. 

For those not particularly drawn to history and on the way to explore the Cyclades, a single day in Athens is enough to uncover the essence of the city, i.e. the Acropolis and some of the city’s famous attractions and places.

On the other hand, if you love Ancient Greek and historic monuments, you would be better off spending 2-3 days here to fully appreciate the city and enjoy other aspects of it, such as the markets and festive districts.

It’s worth noting that there are a lot of things to see beyond the city center as well, like the picturesque Riviera with its stunning beaches and towns like Piraeus or the charming village of Corinthia. You could then allocate one more day to discover these places. 

 

 

How to get to Athens? 

The most common way to get to Athens is by plane. Athens Eleftherios-Venizelos International Airport is connected by direct flights to most major cities in Europe, the Mediterranean, and beyond. 

Athens airport is situated 28 kilometers away from the city center. It is well-connected by metro line 3 (blue), providing direct access to key city locations such as Monastiraki and Syntagma stations. If you opt for this mode of transportation, anticipate around 50 minutes for a one-way journey to reach the city center. Count €9/person one way. 

Alternatively, you have the option to catch a bus or trolleybus departing every 15-25 minutes from Syntagma Square or from nearby towns such as Piraeus. It is the cheapest option (€5.5/person) and is available night and day. But be warned, it can get very crowded and it can be hard to find a seat.

If you want to avoid the queues and stress on arrival, you have the option to take a taxi, book a private transfer or utilize the Uber app (or TaxiBeat), which is operational in Athens. However, it is costly, typically ranging between €40 and €60.

 

poseidon temple is a must if you visit athens in 1 day

 

When is the best time to go to Athens? 

With its dry Mediterranean climate, Athens welcomes visitors with warm and sun-filled days almost all year long.

During the winter months, the weather remains mild but occasionally rainy. From mid-December to the end of March, the average temperature ranges between 8 and 12°C (46.4 – 53.6°F) 

Summer stretches from May to September, characterized by dry and intense heat, with temperatures hovering around 30°C (86°F) and sometimes even reaching 40°C (104°F). Despite the heat, evenings tend to be cooler and more pleasant. 

For the best experience, we recommend going to Athens between mid-May and late June, or from September to mid-October. During these periods, the weather is pleasantly mild for exploring the city, the crowds are less overwhelming, and hotel rates are more reasonable. But if you’re up for the heat, Athens can still be explored during the summer, just remember to stay hydrated and take regular breaks.

 

Is Athens safe? 

Athens is a safe city for tourists and its primary revenue source being tourism, the city prioritizes its visitors’ security. The streets are well-patrolled by police personnel to keep you safe.

However, like all big cities, there are pickpockets, so be vigilant and always keep a close watch on your belongings.

I also advise avoiding the districts of Omonia and Metaxourgeio, as they can be somewhat sensitive, particularly after dark. Fortunately, these areas don’t have points of interest, so it is unlikely you will find yourself there.

Finally, watch out for scams. On the street, don’t let strangers take you to places, avoid hailing a taxi directly in front of tourist sites and ensure the meter is active when getting in.

 

Thank you for reading all the way through! If you were wondering what to do in Athens in one day, I hope this guide has given you the answer and that you’ll have a great time there. 🙂

 

About the Author

Dan Bagby is an avid traveler, currently living in Lisbon, Portugal. Along with his wife Michelle, Dan shares travel advice for couples at HoneymoonAlways.com.