The Best of Athens in Three Days – A Complete Itinerary

Plaka neighbourhood in Athens

When it comes to the romantic holiday of a lifetime, the Greek Islands are at the top of most people’s lists! But, after a three-day visit to Athens, Tanya Joslin says that no trip to Greece is complete without at least a few days in Athens. Here she maps out an easy three-day itinerary.

Day One Athens: Check-In and Explore

Check into NEW Hotel, one of Athens’ most character-filled boutique hotels. A proud member of Design Hotels, this creative gem was envisioned by renowned Brazilian designers Humberto and Fernando Campana, in collaboration with architecture graduates from the University of Thessaly. Housed in a reinvented 1950s building, the hotel features bespoke furniture crafted from recycled materials by local artists, giving it a unique personality. Don’t miss the quirky wall-mounted characters in the 79 guest rooms—a playful nod to Greek mythology and superstition.

Guest room, New Hotel Athens

For couples seeking timeless luxury, consider the Hotel Grande Bretagne, a Luxury Collection Hotel in Syntagma Square. With over 150 years of history, this iconic landmark is elegant and sophisticated, and you’ll be treated to impeccable service and spectacular views of the Acropolis from its rooftop terrace.

Hotel Grande Bretagne, athens
Hotel Grande Bretagne

Whichever hotel you choose, you’ll be perfectly positioned near Plaka, the historic neighbourhood that feels like a charming village in the heart of the city. Just a short stroll away, it’s the perfect place to begin your Athens adventure.

Afternoon – Explore Plaka

After settling in, stroll through Plaka, the city’s oldest neighbourhood and a beautifully restored corner of 19th-century Athens. Often compared to a village in the heart of the city, Plaka is a labyrinth of colourful houses, cobblestoned streets, vibrant markets, and inviting coffee shops. Its charm lies in the seamless blend of neoclassical architecture and contemporary energy.

White church Anafiotika, Athens
Anafiotika, Athens

Start your exploration in Anafiotika, a picturesque area with Cycladic-style whitewashed houses nestled into the Acropolis’s rocky slopes. Built by stonemasons from the island of Anafi in the 19th century, this tranquil enclave offers cascading bougainvillaea, marigold-filled courtyards, and narrow alleyways perfect for wandering.

For a refreshing stop, head to Brettos, a landmark bar dating back to 1909, famed for its colourful, backlit shelves of liquor bottles. Grab a seat by the wooden barrels and explore their vast menu featuring 50 liqueur flavours, Greek brandies, ouzos, or a bespoke cocktail crafted by their bartenders. Prefer something sweet? Order a traditional Greek wine.

Next, take a break at Yiasemi, a quaint café-bistro tucked along Mnisikleous Street. Known for its homemade tarts, pies, and baklava, Yiasemi offers seating spilling onto the stone steps, creating a quintessentially Plaka experience. Pair your treat with a Greek coffee or enjoy a light lunch of beetroot salad or roast pork with plums.

For shopping, Plaka offers some unique options. Stop by Ioanna Kourbela, a boutique showcasing sustainable Greek fashion. Inspired by the human form and movement, the brand uses organic and locally sourced materials to create elegant, handcrafted designs. Located at Adrianou 109, it’s a must-visit for ethically conscious travellers.

Another gem is Flâneur Souvenirs and Supplies, a quirky shop that caters to urban explorers. From designer bags and maps to ceramics and one-of-a-kind jewellery, this store is packed with beautifully crafted items perfect for gifts or keepsakes. Their playful, stylish approach makes shopping here a delight. You can find it on Adrianou Street in the heart of Plaka.

Evening

For dinner, book a table at Soil, a Michelin-starred gem in Pangrati. This celebrated restaurant combines sustainable practices with culinary artistry, offering a seasonal tasting menu inspired by ingredients grown in the chef’s private garden.

Soil’s intimate outdoor setting, designed to feel like a hidden urban oasis, creates an ideal atmosphere for a romantic evening. Let the staff guide you through a journey of flavours, each dish presented with care and precision, reflecting the farm-to-table philosophy that has made Soil a standout in Athens’ dining scene.

Day Two Athens:

Morning at the Acropolis

Today is the busiest day on your itinerary so we hope you got a good night’s sleep last night! You’ll need an early breakfast as we will begin today at The Acropolis, one of the world’s most recognised and significant ancient sites and we want to beat the crowds.

Perched on a prominent hill, the Acropolis—meaning “high city” in Greek—was the heart of religious and political life in the 5th century BC Athens, symbolising the city’s power and devotion to Athena.

Acropolis Athens
Acropolis

Dominating the hilltop is the Parthenon, a temple dedicated to Athena, the goddess of wisdom and war, whose construction began in 477 BC. Alongside the Parthenon are other notable structures, including the Temple of Athena Nike, the Erechtheion with its famous Caryatid columns, and the Propylaea, the monumental gateway to the Acropolis complex.

As we mentioned, it’s important to try to arrive early to avoid the worst of the crowds and the summer heat. You’ll also want to wear comfortable walking shoes since the ground can be uneven and slippery, and pack some water, sunscreen and a hat.

Tickets can be purchased online, allowing you to skip the ticket queue and head straight to the entrance. A single-use ticket costs €20 during the peak season (April to October) and €10 during the off-season (November to March). Alternatively, you can opt for the €30 combo ticket, which provides access to the Acropolis and six other archaeological sites over five days.

Guided tours are highly recommended, as the detailed historical insights and stories truly bring the ancient ruins to life.

Acropolis Museum

Next is the nearby Acropolis Museum, a modern architectural marvel that complements the ancient site. Built to house artefacts from the Acropolis and its slopes, the museum offers a fascinating journey through history. Highlights include the Parthenon Gallery, where the friezes are displayed in their original sequence, and the glass floor revealing excavated ancient streets beneath the building. Plan to spend at least two hours here to appreciate the exhibits fully. Entry costs €10 during the summer and €5 in winter.

Lunch and Afternoon in Kolonaki

It’s time to shift gears and explore Kolonaki. Located at the base of Mount Lycabettus, the highest poiint in Athens, it’s known as Athen’s upscale neighbourhood where old-world elegance seamlessly blends modern charm.

Start with a meal at one of Kolonaki’s chic cafes or restaurants – you are no doubt hungry after a big morning at The Acropolis. For something hearty and delicious, head to Queen Bee, a hip bistro known for its breakfast bowls, croissants, and open-faced sandwiches. Alternatively, Philos Athens serves up creative takes on Greek classics in a beautifully curated space.

For a spot of people watching, grab a cappuccino at Da Capo, a Kolonaki institution on Tsakalof Street, where locals (young and old) gather to catch up and soak up the atmosphere. Or, if you’ve got a sweet tooth, make sure you swing by Désiré, an old-school pastry shop beloved for its millefeuille, syrupy chestnuts, and other indulgent treats. You’ll feel like you’ve stepped back in time—but don’t be surprised to see a mix of genteel regulars and trendy Gen Z-ers embracing this delightful tradition.

Once fueled up, stroll through Kolonaki Square and its surrounding streets, like Patriarchou Ioakeim and Skoufa, lined with high-end designer boutiques, sophisticated shops, and cutting-edge galleries.

For an artsy interlude, pop into one of the neighbourhood’s many galleries or the Benaki Museum of Greek Culture, where you can admire everything from ancient artifacts to modern masterpieces.

Mount Lycabettus at Sunset

Athens mount lycabettus at sunset

Located just behind Kolonaki, Mount Lycabettus offers a breathtaking vantage point over Athens. Rising nearly 300 metres above the city, the hill is steeped in mythology and history. According to legend, the goddess Athena dropped the rock here while carrying it to the Acropolis. Ascend the hill by foot through pine-lined paths or take the funicular for a quicker ride.

St. George’s Chapel, athens
St. George’s Chapel

At the summit, you’ll find St. George’s Chapel, a charming whitewashed church, and a panoramic view stretching to the Aegean Sea. Watching the sun dip below the horizon as the city lights twinkle is a moment of pure romance – try to time your visit with the sun going down!

Nightlife in Psirri

After freshening up, head to Psirri, a neighbourhood famed for its street art and lively atmosphere. If you’re hungry, book a table at LS and SIA, blending Greek culinary traditions with modern flair, before heading to Jazz in Jazz, a cosy bar exuding vintage charm, for a nightcap.

Day Three Athens:

Morning Escape to Lake Vouliagmeni

Today, leave the buzz of the city behind and head to Lake Vouliagmeni, a hidden gem on the Athens Riviera. The lake’s name, meaning “sunken,” comes from the ancient cave that collapsed to form this stunning spot, surrounded by dramatic limestone cliffs. There’s a hint of magic, too—local legends claim the lake was once a hangout for nymphs.

Lake Vouliagmeni in Athens

The waters here are fed by underground thermal springs and keep a blissful 22-29°C all year round, making them perfect for a dip, no matter the season. Minerals are said to have therapeutic properties, so this is where you can float your cares away or simply lounge by the shore, soaking up the peaceful atmosphere.

How to Get There: Lake Vouliagmeni is about a 30-minute drive from central Athens. Visitors can also take public transport—Bus 122 or the KTEL Athens-Sounio line—or opt for a taxi or organised tour. The lake has facilities, including changing rooms, sunbeds and an on-site café.

Afternoon in Monastiraki

Return to central Athens and if you are still looking to explore more of this vibrant city, explore Monastiraki, one of the city’s most historic neighbourhoods. Start at Monastiraki Square, a lively meeting point where street performers, vendors and locals congregate. Admire the Tzistarakis Mosque, a fascinating Ottoman-era structure now housing a collection of traditional ceramics.

Monastiraki Square in Athens
Monastiraki Square in Athens

Stroll through the famed Monastiraki Flea Market, where you’ll discover an eclectic mix of vintage goods, handmade jewellery, antiques, and quirky souvenirs.

For history buffs, nearby sites include the Roman Agora with the impressive Tower of the Winds and Hadrian’s Library, offering a glimpse into Athens’ storied past.

Be sure to pop into the Monastiraki Metro Station, which doubles as an archaeological exhibit showcasing fragments of the ancient Eridanos River uncovered during construction.

Final Feast in Plaka

Make your final evening in Athens memorable with dinner at the Electra Palace Roof Garden Restaurant, a renowned venue in the heart of Plaka known for its unparalleled views of the illuminated Acropolis.

Electra Roof Garden RestaurantAthens
Courtesy of  Electra Palace Athens

Start with a plate of vibrant, locally sourced greens or grilled vegetables enhanced with olive oil from Greece’s finest producers. Follow with tender seafood or perfectly seared lamb and a glass of wine from the Peloponnese or Santorini.

As you dine, the Acropolis shines in the evening light, its golden glow reflecting the city’s timeless charm. Savour a shared dessert and raise a final toast to Athens—a city that has shown you first-hand how it magically bridges the past and present.

Athens Travel Tips:

Porch of the Maidens Acropolis Area - Athens
Porch of the Maidens Acropolis Area
  • Best Time to Visit: Spring (April to June) and autumn (September to October) offer mild weather and fewer crowds. Avoid July and August if you dislike heat.
  • Getting Around: Athens is walkable, but the metro is efficient and affordable. You should only need to use taxis sparingly.
  • Tickets: Book online for major attractions like the Acropolis to skip queues.

As you can see, Athens is more than a gateway to the islands; it’s a city where ancient history meets modern romance, offering couples an unforgettable blend of discovery and intimacy.

Read more: Three Tranquil Greek Islands for a Romantic Escape //Unforgettable Romantic Holidays in Greece

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