The Perfect 3 Days in Athens Itinerary

Planning to spend 3 days in Athens but don’t exactly know what else is to do there besides visiting the iconic Acropolis? You’re in the right place!

With its stunning architecture and delicious food, Athens is definitely a city you’ll fall in love with. But with so much to see and do, it can be tough to know where to start – but don’t worry, I’ve got you covered.

This 3 day Athens itinerary includes visits to some of the city’s top attractions, like the Acropolis and the Parthenon, as well as some lesser-known spots that are worth exploring. Plus, there’s plenty of time for shopping and dining in some of Athens’ best neighborhoods.

So if you’re looking for ideas on how to spend your time in this iconic city, read on!

*Disclosure: This post contains a few affiliate links, which means I may receive a small commission, at no cost to you, if you make a purchase through my link.*

Overview of Your 3 Day Athens Itinerary

Breakdown of your 3 days in Athens

• Day 1: Acropolis of Athens, Aeropagus Hill, Plaka, Anafiotika, Hadrian’s Arch, Temple of Olympian Zeus, Acropolis Museum, Dinner on Mnisikleous Street
• Day 2: Ancient Agora of Athens & Stoa of Attalos, Roman Forum of Athens, Hadrian’s Library, Monastiraki Square, A for Athens Rooftop Bar, Dinner at The Greco’s Project
• Day 3: Panathenaic Stadium, Zappeion Garden & Zappeion Hall, National Garden, Syntagma Square, National Archaeological Museum, Stroll around Kolonaki, Lycabettus Hill, Dinner either in Kolonaki or Plaka

Map for your 3 day Athens itinerary

Below you can find a customized map that includes all the locations you’re going to visit on this Athens itinerary.

I marked your 3 days in Athens with different colors – I used blue for the first day, red for the second day, and green for the third day, so you can easily see which places you’re going to visit each day.

How to use this map: This map is fully interactive, so you can move around, zoom in/zoom out, and click on the icons. If you want to see a larger map, click on the bracket in the upper right corner. To see more details and the different layers, click on the tab in the upper left corner. If you want to save it for later, click on the star icon next to the name of the map. Then simply open Google Maps either on your desktop or phone, go to ‘Saved’/’Maps’, and open the map whenever you need it.

Day 1

Acropolis of Athens

The first stop on your 3 day Athens itinerary is the Acropolis of Athens. This ancient citadel is one of the most famous archaeological sites in the world, and it’s an absolute must-see when you’re in Athens.

The citadel was constructed over a period of several centuries, starting in the 5th century BC. It is perhaps most famous for its iconic Parthenon temple, which was dedicated to the goddess Athena.

Despite its fame, the Acropolis is actually a complex of several different buildings, including the Parthenon, the Propylaea, the Erechtheion, and the Temple of Athena Nike.

The best way to see all of these sights is with a guided tour. I recommend taking a small group tour of the Acropolis, as this will allow you to avoid the crowds and learn more about the history and significance of the site.

If you want to visit the Acropolis on your own, I recommend doing so first thing in the morning when it opens at 8 am. This is the best time to beat the crowds, as well as the heat. I would also recommend arriving with a pre-booked ticket as this way you don’t need to stand in line and waste valuable time.

The Acropolis has two entrances: the main entrance on the west side and another side entrance on the southeast. I recommend using the side entrance as it’s usually a lot less crowded and it’s also located right next to the ‘Acropoli’ metro station so it’s really easy to get to.

Once you’re inside, make sure to allow yourself plenty of time to explore all of the different buildings and ruins. I would also recommend taking a break in the middle to enjoy the incredible views over Athens.

Aeropagus Hill

When you’re finished exploring the Acropolis, make your way down to the Aeropagus Hill. This rocky outcrop is located just below the citadel and it offers stunning views over Athens.

If you take my advice and use the side entrance to enter the Acropolis and the main entrance for the exit, you will find yourself right in front of the hill.

Aeropagus Hill was once the site of a court where murderers were tried. These days, it’s a popular spot for locals and tourists alike to enjoy the views and take in the tranquillity of the area.

Word of warning though: This spot is usually very windy and the rocks are also super slippery, so be careful when visiting!

Plaka

After taking in the views from Aeropagus Hill, it’s time to head to Plaka. This atmospheric neighborhood is located right at the base of the Acropolis and it’s one of the most popular tourist spots you can’t miss when spending 3 days in Athens.

Plaka is often referred to as the ‘old city’ or the ‘historical center’ as it’s full of neoclassical buildings and has a really traditional feel. There are plenty of things to see and do in Plaka, but some of the best activities include exploring the narrow streets, doing some shopping, and grabbing a bite to eat.

When it comes to food, there are plenty of great options in Plaka. However, if you’re looking for a traditional Greek breakfast, I recommend Pantheon. This local spot is known for its delicious Greek yogurt and honey, as well as its fresh-baked pastries.

Anafiotika

After exploring Plaka, take a walk up to the Anafiotika neighborhood. This traditional Greek island-style village is located on the north slope of the Acropolis and it’s one of Athens’ best-kept secrets.

The village is made up of whitewashed houses with colorful doors and flower-filled balconies. It’s the perfect spot to take a break from the city and enjoy some peace and quiet.

To get to Anafiotika, simply walk up Mnisikleous street until you reach the end. From here, follow the signs and take the stairs up to the village.

Don’t forget to climb all the way up to the top of the village for some incredible views over Athens! Anafiotika is super small, so you won’t need more than an hour to explore the area.

Hadrian’s Arch & The Temple of Olympian Zeus

Next up on your 3 days in Athens itinerary is a visit to Hadrian’s Arch and the Temple of Olympian Zeus.

Hadrian’s Arch is located right next to the National Gardens, so it’s the perfect spot to start your morning. The arch was built in 131 AD to honor the Roman Emperor Hadrian and it’s one of Athens’ most iconic landmarks.

After taking some photos in front of the arch, make your way over to the Temple of Olympian Zeus. This colossal temple is one of the largest temples ever built in the ancient world and it took over 600 years to complete!

Although it’s now in ruins, the temple is still an impressive sight and it’s definitely worth a visit. Even if you’re not a history buff, you’ll be impressed by the size of the columns!

Visiting Hadrian’s Arch is completely free but entrance to the Temple of Zeus costs €6 per person. Or, if you’ve taken my advice and purchased the Archaeological Sites Combo Ticket, it’s already included in the price!

Acropolis Museum

The Acropolis Museum is located right at the base of the Acropolis and it’s one of Athens’ most popular attractions. The museum houses a collection of artifacts from the Acropolis, as well as an excavation site where you can see the foundations of the Parthenon.

The museum is huge, so you could easily spend a few hours here. However, if you don’t have that much time, I recommend doing a quick lap of the museum to see the highlights.

You can purchase an entry ticket to the museum separately or you can also decide to buy a combo ticket that grants access to both the Acropolis and the Acropolis Museum. Sadly, this one is not included in the Archaeological Sites Combo Ticket.

Dinner on Mnisikleous Street

After a busy day of sightseeing, it’s time to relax and enjoy a nice dinner. And there’s no better place to do that than on Mnisikleous Street!

Mnisikleous Street is located in the Plaka neighborhood and it’s one of Athens’ most popular spots for dinner. It’s a steep-stepped pedestrian street lined with traditional Greek restaurants, cafes, and bars, making it the perfect place to enjoy a meal or a drink.

If you’re looking for a traditional Greek dinner, I recommend Yiasemi or Geros Tou Moria Restaurant. Both of these spots serve delicious Greek food at reasonable prices.

Or, if you’re in the mood for something lighter, Anafiotika Cafe is a great option. This cafe has an extensive menu of salads, sandwiches, and desserts, so you’re sure to find something to your liking.

After dinner, take a stroll through the Plaka neighborhood one more time and enjoy the atmospheric streets. This is one of Athens’ most charming neighborhoods and it’s the perfect place to end your day.

Day 2

Brunch

You’ve had a busy day yesterday so I recommend taking the second day of your 3 day Athens itinerary easy and starting with a delicious brunch.

If you’re looking for a unique brunch spot in Athens, you have to check out Little Kook. This charming cafe is decorated like a children’s storybook and it serves up some of the most creative and mouthwatering dishes. If you decide to dine elsewhere, it’s still worth strolling around to see the decorations!

Two other great choices in the Psyrri neighborhood are iFeel Brunch Restaurant and Kalimeres. These two spots have more traditional brunch menus with items like eggs Benedict and pancakes, but they’re both delicious nonetheless.

And finally, if you’re on a girls’ trip or you’re looking for a really cute cafe, you have to put Ellyz Cafe on your list. The whole cafe is decorated with flowers and it has the prettiest outdoor seating area. Not only the food is super delicious but it definitely belongs to the most Instagrammable places in Athens!

Ancient Agora of Athens & Stoa of Attalos

After brunch, it’s time to start exploring! Head to the Ancient Agora of Athens, which was one of the most important public squares in Ancient Greece. It served as a center for political and social life, as well as a marketplace.

Today, the site is home to ruins of several ancient buildings, including the Temple of Hephaestus, one of the most well-preserved temples from Ancient Greece. It was built in the 5th century BC and it’s dedicated to the Greek god of blacksmiths and fire, Hephaestus.

The Stoa of Attalos is another important building in the Ancient Agora of Athens. It was built in the 2nd century BC and it served as a covered marketplace. Today, the Stoa of Attalos houses the Museum of the Ancient Agora, which is definitely worth a visit.

The area of the Agora is huge and there’s a lot to explore, so I recommend spending at least an hour or two here. Tickets can be purchased at the site for €8 per person. Alternatively, entrance is included in the Archaeological Sites Combo Ticket.

Roman Forum of Athens

Only a 5-minute walk from the Ancient Agora you will find another important landmark and the next item on your 3 day Athens itinerary, the Roman Forum of Athens. Built between 19 and 11 BC, the Roman Forum of Athens was the center of public life during the Roman period.

It was commissioned by Augustus, the first emperor of Rome, and it was used for a variety of purposes, including political meetings, public speeches, and judicial proceedings. It was also a popular spot for shops and businesses.

The most important building in the Roman Forum of Athens is the Tower of the Winds, also known as the Horologion of Andronikos Kyrrhestes. It was built in the 2nd century BC and it served as a clock, a sundial, and a weather vane.

Entrance to the Roman Forum of Athens is €8 per person and it’s open daily from 8 am to 5 pm. The Roman Forum is also included in the Archaeological Sites Combo Ticket.

Hadrian’s Library

After exploring the Roman Forum, walk 2 minutes to Hadrian’s Library. As the name suggests, Hadrian’s Library was built by Roman Emperor Hadrian in 132 AD. It was the largest library in ancient Greece and it housed almost 200,000 books and scrolls.

The library was damaged by fire in 267 AD but it was later rebuilt by Herculius, the Prefectus of the Illyricum. Today, only the ruins of Hadrian’s Library remain but it’s still definitely worth a visit.

Entrance to Hadrian’s Library is €6 or free if you’ve purchased an Archaeological Sites Combo Ticket.

Monastiraki Square & Flea Market

Next on your list of things to do in Athens in 3 days should be Monastiraki Square and the famous Monastiraki Flea Market.

Monastiraki Square is one of the most popular spots in Athens and it’s always packed with tourists. It’s located in the heart of the city and it’s surrounded by cafes, restaurants, and shops.

The Monastiraki Flea Market is one of the most popular markets in Athens. It’s located in the square and it’s the perfect place to find souvenirs, gifts, and antiques.

If you’re looking for something specific, I recommend checking out the shops on Ifestou Street, which is located just off Monastiraki Square. This street is known for its jewelry shops and it’s definitely worth a visit.

A for Athens Rooftop Bar

No Athens itinerary is complete without visiting at least one of the city’s iconic rooftop bars! A for Athens is one of the most popular rooftop bars in Athens and it offers stunning views of the Acropolis, the Parthenon, and the city.

The bar is located on the top floor of the A for Athens Hotel and it’s open daily from noon to midnight. It has two different floors so there’s plenty of space to enjoy the views.

However, it does get crowded, especially in the peak summer season, so it’s best to go early or make a reservation in advance. That’s why I recommend visiting in the afternoon before dinner but you can always flip this itinerary around and go for sunset instead.

Entrance to the A for Athens Rooftop Bar is free and there is no minimum consumption either but keep in mind that drinks are slightly on the pricier side. However, their Aperol Spritz is so good that it’s worth every buck!

Dinner at The Greco’s Project

If you’re looking for a budget-friendly dinner after splurging on drinks at A for Athens, The Greco’s Project is the perfect place for you.

The Greco’s Project is a chain of restaurants that offer traditional Greek food at affordable prices. The menu features a variety of dishes, including Souvlaki, Gyros, Mousaka, and plenty of vegetarian options.

They have multiple locations but I recommend visiting the one at Monastiraki Square, which is just a few minutes walk from A for Athens.

Day 3

Panathenaic Stadium

Start your third and final day in Athens with a visit to the Panathenaic Stadium. The Stadium was originally built in the 4th century BC and it was used for the Panathenaic Games, which were held every four years to honor the goddess Athena.

The stadium was rebuilt in 140 AD by Herodes Atticus to accommodate 50,000 people. During the centuries the stadium fell into disrepair but it was restored in the late 19th century and it hosted the first modern Olympic Games in 1896.

Today, the Panathenaic Stadium is once again used for sporting events and it’s also open to the public. You can enter the stadium for €10 and it’s open every day.

Keep in mind that there are no shades in the stadium so it’s best to visit first thing in the morning to avoid the heat.

Zappeion Garden & Zappeion Hall

After visiting the Panathenaic Stadium, head to the nearby Zappeion Garden. The garden is located just behind the stadium and it’s a great spot to relax and escape the heat. It’s also one of the most popular photo spots in Athens so make sure to have your camera ready!

Zappeion Hall is located in the center of the garden and it’s one of the most iconic buildings in Athens. The hall was built in 1874 and it has been home to various significant events throughout the years such as European summits and political conferences. Today, Zappeion Hall is used as a conference and exhibition center.

National Garden

Another green oasis in the heart of the city that you should include in your 3 days in Athens itinerary is the National Garden.

The National Garden is a large park that covers an area of 40 acres. It’s a great spot to relax and it’s also home to numerous statues, fountains, and a small zoo.

If you’re visiting with kids, they will definitely enjoy the playground and the petting zoo. The National Garden is open every day from sunrise to sunset and the entrance is free.

Syntagma Square

No visit to Athens is complete without a stop at Syntagma Square, which is considered the central square of the city.

The square is home to the Greek Parliament and the Tomb of the Unknown Soldier. Before 2020 it was possible to visit the Parliament building on guided tours but unfortunately, the building is closed to the public until further notice due to the pandemic.

You can still watch the changing of the guards in front of the Parliament building though. The guards change every hour on the hour but the biggest ceremony takes place on Sundays at 11 am so if you happen to be in the area, definitely don’t miss it!

National Archaeological Museum

Founded at the end of the 19th century, the National Archeological Museum is one of the unmissable places to see when spending 3 days in Athens. It’s the largest museum in all of Greece and also one of the most important archaeological museums in the world.

The museum houses an extensive collection of artifacts from the Greek Bronze Age, the Mycenaean period, and the Cycladic civilization.

Some of the most famous exhibits in the museum include the Mask of Agamemnon, a gold death mask dating back to the 16th century BC, and the statue of Kouros, a life-size marble statue of a young man from the 6th century BC.

The National Archaeological Museum is open every day from 8 am to 8 pm in the summer period (the only exception is Tuesday when it only opens at 1 pm) and the entrance is €12.

Stroll around Kolonaki

Kolonaki is one of the chicest and most upmarket neighborhoods in Athens. It’s located just behind Syntagma Square and it’s the perfect spot for a leisurely stroll and some people watching.

The next destination on your 3 day Athen itinerary, Lycabettus Hill, is located in Kolonaki so it’s worth spending some extra time in the neighborhood before heading up to the hill.

Make sure to check out Stadiou Street, which is one of the busiest streets in Kolonaki with numerous high-end shops and boutiques. If you get hungry, there are also plenty of great restaurants and cafes in Kolonaki where you can grab a bite.

Lycabettus Hill

Another unmissable thing to do in Athens in 3 days is to spend some time on Lycabettus Hill, which offers the best views of the city.

The hill is located in the center of Athens and it’s easy to spot thanks to its white limestone cliffs. There are two ways to reach the top of Lycabettus Hill: either by taking the funicular railway or by hiking up the hundreds of steps that lead to the summit.

If you’re visiting Athens in the summer, I definitely recommend taking the funicular railway as it can get quite hot and there is very little shade on the hiking trail.

The funicular runs every 30 minutes from 8.30 am to 2.30 am, a return ticket costs €9 while the one-way ticket is €7. Sadly, the funicular runs inside a closed tunnel so it doesn’t provide any views.

Just a heads up: Although getting on the funicular definitely helps as you don’t need to tackle the hike, getting to the funicular is quite a workout itself.

The funicular station is located at the bottom of a long flight of steps so unless you’re taking a taxi, be prepared for a steep walk!

If you’re feeling energetic, you can also hike up to the top of Lycabettus Hill. It’s a pretty strenuous hike but it only takes about 20-30 minutes to reach the summit.

Once you reach the top, you will be rewarded with panoramic views of Athens, the Acropolis, and the Aegean Sea. It’s worth timing your visit so that you can watch the sunset from Lycabettus Hill, it’s a pretty magical experience!

There is also a cafe and a restaurant at the top of the hill if you want to enjoy a drink or a bite while taking in the views.

Dinner either in Kolonaki or Plaka

After taking in the views from Lycabettus Hill, it’s time to enjoy a delicious dinner in one of Athens’ best neighborhoods. It’s the final day of your 3 day Athens itinerary after all!

Kolonaki and Plaka are both great options for dinner as they offer a wide variety of restaurants to choose from. Kolonaki is a bit more upmarket while Plaka is a bit more touristy but both offer great food options.

One of the top-rated restaurants in Kolonaki is Kiouzin, which serves up traditional Greek food with a modern twist. Alternatively, you can head back again to Mnisikleous Street in Plaka and try one of the numerous taverns that line the street, such as Geros Tou Moria Restaurant.

Useful Info for Visiting Athens

Where to stay in Athens

Athens offers a wide range of accommodations to suit every budget, from hostels and budget apartments to boutique and luxury hotels. For travelers on a budget, the Psyri neighborhood is a fantastic choice. Centrally located and within walking distance of many top attractions, it offers a variety of affordable hotels and hostels.

If you’re seeking something mid-range or boutique, Plaka is an excellent option. This charming and atmospheric area sits right next to the Acropolis, with plenty of delightful streets to explore and a good selection of mid-range and upscale hotels.

For those looking for a luxurious stay, Kolonaki is the place to be. This sophisticated neighborhood is home to chic hotels, high-end restaurants, and stylish bars, perfect for an indulgent experience in Athens.

If you want to know more about each neighborhood in detail, make sure to check out my guide about the best areas to stay in Athens.

In case you’re in a hurry, here are my top picks for different budgets.

• Luxury: Electra Palace Athens
• Mid-Range: The Athens Gate Hotel
• Budget: Plaka Hotel

How to get to Athens

The easiest way to reach Athens is by flying into Eleftherios Venizelos International Airport, located 30 km outside the city center. The airport is well-connected to European cities, and direct flights from the US, like New York, are available during the summer season.

To get into the city, taxis are the most convenient option, while the metro offers a cheaper alternative. Budget travelers can opt for the X95 express bus, which connects the airport to Syntagma Square.

Best time to visit Athens

The best time to visit Athens is during the shoulder season from late April to mid-June or late September to early October. You’ll enjoy warm weather and fewer crowds compared to the summer months when temperatures can soar to 40°C.

Winter is a quieter and more affordable time to visit, with milder temperatures and reduced prices at attractions. Just pack a jacket for cooler evenings.

How to get around in Athens

Athens is very walkable, with many attractions close to each other. For longer distances, the metro is efficient and easy to use. Buses and trolleys also cover the city and are included with public transport tickets.

A single-ride ticket is valid for 90 minutes across all forms of transportation, while daily and multi-day passes offer unlimited travel. Note that airport rides require a separate ticket.