Athens, Greece is an absolute bucket list destination for those that love history and iconic architecture. Athens is the oldest capital in Europe, it’s the birthplace of democracy, it’s home to the first Olympic games, and so much more. Many of our traditions today come from Athens.
This beautiful city is full of ancient history, amazing food, and a perfect mix of old and new that makes it really fun to explore. I visited Athens for the first time last summer and spent a week working remotely and sightseeing. If youโre heading there soon, Iโd say 2 to 3 days is a great amount of time to get a feel for the city before heading out to the islands. Hereโs how Iโd spend a few days in Athens, Greece.
Where to Stay
Of course, your first main question is probably about where you should stay. Location should be your main focus in Athens because you’ll want to be close to the Acropolis and other museums.
Hostels
For digital nomads, students, and solo travelers, I highly recommend the Athens Hub Hostel near Monastiraki Square. This hostel was quiet with lots of great workspace and reliable WiFi. The beds all had their own curtains and privacy which is a non-negotiable for me now. If you’re looking for a party hostel, try Athens Backpackers. They have an unbeatable view of the Acropolis from the rooftop bar.
Hotels
Athens Hotel
The Athens Gate Hotel
Luxury Stay
King George Hotel Athens
Athens Hotel
The Arion Hotel Athens
Transportation
Athens has a great public underground metro system that can take you from the airport to the center of the city. There are metro stops at or near all of the major sights. You can also easily call Ubers around the city and they are pretty affordable. Similar to Rome, Athens is a wonderful city to explore by foot. there are more grungy areas of the city with lots of graffiti, but if you stay in the main areas like Monastiraki Square or Plaka, you will be safe and around lots of locals and tourists.
Acropolis & Acropolis Museum
VOGELLE
White Chain Shoulder Bag
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If you’re visiting Athens, there’s a very high likelihood that you’re hoping to see the Acropolis. The Acropolis is one of the most magnificent sights to see on the planet, and seeing it in person took my breath away. Because the Acropolis sits high on a hill, you can see it from most areas of Athens, especially when you’re driving around. However, going up on a tour to actually see it up close is a completely different experience.
When booking your tour, you can either book a tour of only the Acropolis, or the Acropolis and the Acropolis Museum. I recommend booking a tour guide that will take you through both spots. So much of what used to be on the Acropolis is housed in the museum, so you can’t really get the full picture until going into the museum. I loved having the same tour guide in the museum because he was able to directly connect the dots on what we saw at the Acropolis and what was on the museum. I believe we had about one hour with the guide in the museum and then the tour ended and we were able to separate and explore the museum on our own time. I did this entire tour solo and met so many travelers and learned a ton. This was one of my favorite things I have done so far on my travels. The exact tour I booked is linked HERE.
Be aware that there is zero shade at the Acropolis. This can be a very hot day! I purchased a few water bottles before and carried them with me through the tour.
Neighborhoods & Sights
Athens NEighborhoods
Monastiraki Square & Plaka
I already mentioned this briefly, but Monastiraki and Plaka are the best areas in Athens.
I felt extremely safe walking around during the day and evening. There’s a great rooftop bar in Monastiraki called Couleur Locale – don’t miss it! Watch the TikTok below to see exactly how to get there.
@lauravogelle Loved this rooftop bar in Athens, Greece! ๐ฅ๐ฌ๐ท Bookmark this for your next trip. Couleur Locale Athens. #vogelle #athens #athensgreece #rooftopbar #acropolis #acropolisview #athensrooftopbar #monastraki โฌ original sound – Laura Vogel
Make sure to spend some time at the Roman Forum of Athens, the Panathenaic Stadium, the Library of Hadrian, the Adrianou pedestrian street, and the National Archeological Museum.
The Plaka neighborhood has so many delicious restaurants scattered throughout its lively streets. Greek food is seriously amazing. I have been truly thinking about it everyday since my trip! If you want a super local and casual authentic restaurant, try Athina Souvlaki near the Acropolis. It’s a small Greek food with outdoor seating, but trust me when I say that this was one of the best meals I’ve had in Europe. Leave a comment below if you do go!
I always compare Athens to Rome, since they are both to historically rich and significant, but there is a lot less to do in Athens in my opinion. That’s why ~2 days would be sufficient to see the major sights in Athens.
@lauravogelle 48 Hours in Athens, Greece! Get all of my hotel recs, outfit recs, and tour recs on the blog. If youโre headed to the islands, I have guides on Naxos too. Monastiraki Square, Plaka, Acropolis, Acropolis Tour, Piraeus port. Hotels in Athens. Hostels in Athens. #vogelle #athens #athensgreece๐ฌ๐ท #greecetiktok #greece #travelguide #athenstravelguide #traveltiktok #greenscreen โฌ original sound – Laura Vogel
Athens to the Islands
After exploring Athens, you can head down to the Piraeus port to catch one of the many ferries that depart each day to the islands. I caught the ferry to Santorini, got off at the Naxos port, and spent a few days on Naxos. It was one of the best few days of my life – sounds dramatic, but it’s true!
Book your ferry above and either call an Uber or take the public transportation to the dock.
Pro Tip: you have to validate your ferry ticket a few hours before your departing time in order to get a valid barcode on your phone. If you don’t validate it online beforehand, you will have to wait in a long line at the port to validate your ticket which can be pretty stressful.
Enjoy your trip to Athens! I already can’t wait to come back to this special and beautiful city. Let me know your favorite things to do in Athens in the comments.
