Athens, the cradle of Western civilization, captivates every traveler’s heart. With its iconic ancient sites, vibrant neighborhoods, and culinary delights, Athens offers an unforgettable vacation. You could spend a month in this wonderful city and not see it all, but unfortunately, most of us only have a week to hit the top spots. Here is how to spend 7 amazing days in Athens.
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Day 1: Explore 2 Seats of Government and an Evening in Plaka
Most flights from the US arrive in Athens mid-morning to early afternoon. Settle into your accommodation or store your bag if your room isn’t quite ready. It is time to begin your 7 days in Athens adventure!
The Two Agoras
Head straight to the Ancient Agora. The ancient Agora served as the heart of political, cultural, and commercial life in Greece during Greek times. It features grand temples and public spaces that encapsulated the democratic spirit of Athens.
Next, travel through time as you walk 5-6 minutes to the Roman Agora. The ancient Agora and the Roman Agora differ drastically in architectural style and historical significance. The Roman Agora showcases Roman architectural influences with impressive structures like the Tower of the Winds.
While both agoras played essential roles in their respective societies, the ancient Agora emphasized the ideals of Greek democracy, while the Roman Agora reflected the city’s evolution under Roman rule.
Food and Shopping
If you get hungry during the day, you will find loads of options around Monastiraki Square and its bustling flea market. This is a great place to try the street food and is near the Roman Agora.
Spend the evening wandering through Plaka, Athens’ oldest neighborhood. Discover traditional shops, cafes, and local artisanal products. Enjoy dinner at a traditional tavern in Plaka as you close the first day of your 7 days in Athens.
Day 2: Ascend the Acropolis & Catch the Olympic Spirit
This morning you visit the iconic Acropolis. Explore the Parthenon, Erechtheion, and Propylaea as you step into ancient Greece’s splendor. Take a moment to marvel at the Parthenon’s remarkable architectural style and craftsmanship. Observe the intricate marble columns and meticulous carvings on the friezes. Envision the significant historical ceremonies and events that unfolded within its walls. Capture the panoramic view of Athens from the hilltop location. The best vantage point to see the city of Athens is from this incredible spot.
Acropolis Logistics
It is important to arrive at the Acropolis either early (at least 30 minutes before opening) or time your visit for sunset. Particularly in the busy summer season. Not only are photos better in the morning and evening, but the temperatures are much more tolerable. I visited during a record-breaking heat wave (of course) so they were closing the site at noon each day for the protection of their staff. Therefore, a morning visit is the best plan. Or, with 7 full days in Athens, you could try to make it at both times!
Purchase Skip the Line Tickets or participate in a Guided Tour of the site. I much prefer using an audio guide to a tour as we saw massive groups who could not hear (or keep up with) their guide. With the audio guide we were able to go at our own pace. For a quality guide, download the Rick Steves Europe app to your phone. He has a wonderful guide free of charge. Keep in mind, Skip the Line tickets really just mean you skip the ticket line. But still get them as they are totally worth it!
Mars Hill
Don’t miss Mars Hill across from the Acropolis entrance. This is where the Apostle Paul preached to the Athenians about the “Unknown God.” Climb the hill, which is really a rock outcropping. You will have a magnificent view of the Parthenon. I can just imagine Paul standing there shaking his head at the polytheism of the Athenians!
You will likely only spend a couple of hours at the Acropolis. It is amazing that something so important takes so little time, but if you travel in summer, you will be ready for air conditioning. The Acropolis Museum is only an 8-minute walk away. But don’t rush! Take the long way and go down a few side streets to marvel at other ancient sites and ruins along the way.
The Acropolis Museum
Visit the Acropolis Museum to delve deeper into the history and significance of the Acropolis archaeological site. You’ll encounter a stunning collection of ancient artifacts and sculptures that once adorned the Acropolis. The museum’s transparent floors provide a unique perspective, allowing you to gaze directly at the archaeological remains beneath your feet.
If you are hungry, the museum houses a little café to grab a snack and rest a bit after a busy morning. After you are finish here, check out the Panathenaic Stadium. You can either purchase an Skip the Line ticket to the museum or you can get a combination Acropolis and Acropolis Museum ticket. Either way, purchase these in advance so you can skip the long ticket line. You might also choose a guided tour of both the Acropolis and the Acropolis Museum. Their are pros and cons to both group tours and self-guided tours so it is really just a matter of personal preference. I most often select self-guided tours as I like to move at my own pace.
The Olympic Spirit
Athens was the birthplace of the ancient Olympic Games, which began in 776 BC. These Games were held for centuries and drew athletes from all corners of the ancient world. These games stopped for several centuries, but in 1896, Athens hosted the first modern Olympic Games and they have been going strong ever since.
The city’s historic Panathenaic Stadium, a marble marvel, was the venue for the 1896 Games. Visit this stadium to see how they honored the grandeur of ancient sports. Athens has since hosted the Olympics again in 2004. The city’s enduring connection with the Olympics makes it a true symbol of the games’ historical legacy.
Exarchia
This evening, take a stroll through Exarchia, a bohemian neighborhood known for its vibrant street art and cafes. If you visit in winter you may want to do this earlier in the day, but the long days of summer are perfect for an early evening stroll followed by a relaxing dinner in the area.
Day 3: Take a Day Trip to Delphi
Embark on a day trip to the UNESCO-listed archeological site of Delphi. Once considered the ‘Center of the World,’ it hosts the ancient sanctuary of Apollo. Enjoy the changes in the country-side as you make your way to this mountainous region.
Stand in awe before the Temple of Apollo. Explore the ancient theater and the well-preserved Treasury of the Athenians. The Oracle’s sanctuary fuels the imagination with stories of seekers and seers. Don’t skip a visit to the Delphi Archeological Museum with its Charioteer of Delphi and the Sphinx of Naxos.
Immerse yourself in the mystique of Delphi’s history and panoramic mountain views. Find a local café for a leisurely lunch and then slowly make your way back to the city. Stop along the way in the wonderful handicraft towns of Arachova and Levadia. You are bound to find some wonderful items to remind you of your magnificent day in Delphi.
You can get to Delphi on your own by car or with public transportation. But consider a Day Trip to Delphi. Day trips allow you to soak in the scenery and provide expert guides who can explain the archeological and cultural significance of the city. This is a great way to spend one of your 7 days in Athens!
Day 4: Get to Know Modern Athens and Lycabettus Hill
Discover modern Athens at Syntagma Square. The square’s focal point, the Hellenic Parliament, commands attention with its stately presence and the changing of the Evzones guard. This ceremonial spectacle embodies Greek tradition. No 7 day trip to Athens is complete without taking time to see how the ancient and the modern intertwine in this great destination.
Explore the National Gardens
The Athens Botanical Gardens beckon with their serene oasis in the heart of the city. The meticulously curated collection of plants, both native and exotic, offers a glimpse into the Earth’s botanical diversity. Stroll along the winding paths to discover serene ponds, charming bridges, and hidden nooks that invite reflection and relaxation. A visit to the Athens Botanical Gardens is an enriching experience that rejuvenates the spirit, right in the heart of the city.
Ascend Lycabettus Hill
Lycabettus Hill stands as a majestic natural monument in the heart of Athens, commanding attention with its soaring height and panoramic vistas. Ascend to its summit, either by foot or funicular railway, for breathtaking views that stretch across the sprawling city and beyond to the Aegean Sea.
The hill’s charming chapel of St. George crowns the peak, adding a touch of serenity to the landscape. It’s an ideal spot to witness the sun’s dramatic descent over Athens or to marvel at the city lights sparkling in the night.
This evening, take in views of the illuminated Acropolis over dinner at a rooftop restaurant. Relax over a traditional Greek meal as you end your fourth day in Athens.
Day 5: Take a Day Trip to See the Monasteries of Meteora
Meteora stands as a testament to the wonders of nature and human ingenuity. With its towering rock formations crowned by monasteries that seem to touch the sky, this UNESCO World Heritage site is a destination that ignites the imagination and feeds the soul. Explore the beauty of Meteora and its cliff top monasteries when you visit Greece.
Just a 4-hour train ride from Athens, a visit to Meteora is an amazing way to get outside the city and see the countryside. While you can certainly get there independently, it is really nice to have a guide, once there, to provide insight to the history and culture of the monasteries. There are many 1-Day Tours out of Athens, but I highly recommend a 2-Day Tour if time permits.
Wear or take long pants or an ankle-length skirt to cover your legs. Neither men or women are permitted to wear shorts or a shorter skirt into the monasteries. At the same time, if you visit in summer, be prepared for the heat! I recommend wearing your shorter clothing but bringing a long wrap to tie around your waist when needed. Even some of the guys on our tour did this! It was just too hot for long pants.
Day 6: Coastal Splendor and Piraeus
Wake up early for a day of fun in the sun! First, check out Piraeus, Athens’ main port. This gateway is bustling with energy and maritime heritage. Exploring the narrow streets reveals a blend of traditional taverns, modern cafes, and lively markets, offering a glimpse into the local way of life. The bustling Mikrolimano harbor exudes a picturesque charm, lined with colorful fishing boats and waterfront eateries.
Greek Island Hopping
From Piraeus, you can embark on island-hopping adventures to the nearby Saronic Islands where you can soak in the sun, sea, and the essence of Greek island life. The Saronic Islands will enthrall you with their enchanting Mediterranean beauty.
Hop on a tour or ferry to discover a cluster of islands offering unique experiences. Aegina enchants with its ancient temples, while Hydra’s car-free streets and captivating architecture create a timelessly romantic atmosphere. Poros boasts lush landscapes, while Spetses exudes an aristocratic charm with its horse-drawn carriages and historic mansions. These islands offer a delightful blend of historical sites, turquoise waters, and vibrant local culture, making them the perfect Greek island getaway just a short distance from Athens.
The Athenian Riviera
Want to stay on the mainland? Head to the Athenian Riviera for a day by the sea. The Athenian Riviera stretches along the coastline with an irresistible blend of natural beauty and coastal allure. Pristine beaches invite you to bask in the sun and dip into the azure waters of the Saronic Gulf. The palm-lined promenades exude a laid-back charm, perfect for leisurely strolls and al fresco dining. Luxurious resorts and beach clubs offer a great day in the sun.
Just before sunset, explore the historic Temple of Poseidon at Cape Sounion. The Temple commands attention with its majestic presence atop a rugged promontory. Perched above the Aegean Sea, its imposing Doric columns and weathered marble evoke a sense of ancient grandeur. As you stand amidst the ruins, you’re treated to breathtaking vistas of the azure waters below. Time your day to watch sunset at the temple. The skies will put on a show of vibrant color and shadow providing the perfect end to a perfect day on the Athenian Riviera.
Day 7: Take a Day Trip to Corinth
Corinth’s history is steeped in myth and legend. As the crossroads of trade routes and the setting for tales of gods and heroes, this city boasts an unparalleled historical backdrop. From the Acrocorinth fortress to the ancient ruins of the Temple of Apollo, Corinth offers a glimpse into its illustrious past.
So, when in Athens, take a day (or 3) to check out the city of Corinth. I took this day trip, but I quickly realized that you really need to spend more than 1 day in Corinth! Next time I will spend 2-3 days in this great city. That said, 1 day is better than none, so if you only have a day, then seize it!
Most day trips to Corinth return to Athens mid-afternoon. Take this rest of the day to soak in any sites you didn’t quite get to, souvenir shop, and pack for an early flight home.
More Things to Do During Your 7 Days in Athens
Stay longer so you can explore all the wonderful things Greece has to offer!
- The National Archaeological Museum showcases treasures from ancient Greece’s rich history.
- Check out Little Kook for desert! This fun themed restaurant will blow you away.
- Explore the Museum of Cycladic Art.
- Visit the Byzantine and Christian Museum.
- Take a guided food tour through Athens.
- Take a guided tour of the Athens street art scene.
- Take a day trip to Nafplio.
- Learn about ancient astronomy at the Athens Planetarium.
- Enjoy the thermal spa at Lake Vouliagmeni.
- Enjoy a traditional Greek dancing.
Where to Stay for 7 Days in Athens
There are a host of great hotels to stay in while in Athens. My 7 days in Athens was actually split in the middle with a cruise up the Adriatic Coast to Croatia and Montenegro. So, I was able to experience two different locations in different parts of the city.
Before the cruise we stayed at the Astor Hotel near Syntagma Square. I loved this central hotel with a rooftop breakfast area offering an unparalleled view of the Acropolis. The rooms were simple, but nice, and the staff was very friendly. The hotel was situated in the midst of dozens of restaurants and shops. It was also very close to the hop-on/hop-off bus if you want to use that to help you get around. It can be helpful if you are alone or just want to save a few steps. I didn’t find this to be a great hoho tour, but it is reasonably priced and offers great service to Piraeus. So you might save a ride-share cost if you use it. Just a note – Uber is a great way to get around Athens when your feet need a break!
Upon our return from the cruise, we stayed at the B&O Boutique Hotel. This was a little less expensive and you could feel the difference in square footage. But we were only there a few days and we were only in the room to sleep. This hotel was conveniently located off Ermou Street. This was nice as it gave us easy access to the shopping and dining options along the street heading toward Monastiraki Square.
Within walking distance of the hotel, Little Kook is a fun place to have dessert. This over-the-top themed cafe is too fun to miss. They change the theme every few months but the focus was Alice in Kookland when we were there. Nothing like a slipper full of ice-cream and frosting to add some pep to your step! Also, check out all the great street at in this area.
How Would You Spend 7 Days in Athens?
Tell us below in the comments and then Plan Your Trip!
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