Discover Athens: A 2 Day Guide Through Its Timeless Treasures

Founded in 508 BC, Athens stretches over 1,131 square miles (2,929 square kilometers) and is home to over 3 million people. With over 5,000 years of history, you'll find some of the world's largest collections of Greek ruins and artifacts everywhere from the iconic Parthenon overlooking the city all the way to the subway stations.

Athens is one of those cities that everybody knows about, from its rich history to its captivating mythology. This city was on my bucket list for a long time, and after my cruise in the Aegean Sea, it became the final stop. I was eager to dive into its ancient charm, so I crafted a 2-day itinerary to see as much as possible. Here, I'll share how I used my time in this incredible city.

Where to Stay in Athens

The Editor Hotel in Athens - a perfect blend of comfort and convenience.

After disembarking from the Norwegian Viva at 8 am, I headed straight to my hotel, brimming with excitement. I chose The Editor Hotel, a small boutique hotel located just a few steps from Monastiraki Square. Let me tell you, this area is perfect with easy access to the subway and walking distance to some of the ruins and archaeological sites.

The hotel itself has only a few rooms, giving it an intimate feel. My room was spacious, featuring a small balcony and a modern design. Plus, the area is full of restaurants and rooftop bars you can't go wrong staying here.

First Impressions of Athens

The city of Athens has an unpretentious, raw, and unpolished vibe. Graffiti adorns the walls, and the friendly charm of the people balances the majestic archaeological and historical sites scattered throughout the city. Be ready for lots of character.

Day 1: Exploring the Archaeological Sites

Battling the Heat to Discover History

Leaving my luggage at the hotel, I set out on foot toward the archaeological sites. It was the middle of summer, and Athens was grappling with a heatwave—temperatures soared around 39°C (102°F). This weather was going to push me to the limit, so finding the balance between exploring and resting was key to enjoying the experience.

Purchasing the Combo Ticket

For the archaeological sites, I purchased the combo ticket for 30 Euros. You can buy this ticket online or at any of the included sites. This ticket grants access to the following sites over five consecutive days:

• Acropolis of Athens

• Ancient Agora and Museum

• Roman Agora

• Hadrian's Library

• Olympieion

• Kerameikos and Museum

• Aristotle’s School (Lyceum)

Purchasing the combo ticket was a no-brainer—it saved me money and time waiting in lines. You can purchase the tickets on the official site HERE

Immersing in Ancient Marketplaces

Roman Agora

I began with the Roman Agora, built between 19 and 11 BC under Emperor Augustus and later expanded by Emperor Hadrian. This rectangular space, 100 meters long, housed the central market, public latrines, and various shops. Located between the Acropolis and Monastiraki Square, it was a major center of trade and social activity in ancient Athens.

Walking among the ruins, I could almost hear the buzz of merchants and shoppers from centuries past. The Tower of the Winds, an ancient clock tower, stands gracefully within the site.

Hadrian's Library

Next, I explored Hadrian's Library, also known as the “Library of the Hundred Columns,” built in 132 AD by Emperor Hadrian. This grand building held a vast collection of books and served as a reading room and convention center, with a central courtyard surrounded by Corinthian columns.

Standing amidst the towering remains, I felt a profound connection to the pursuit of knowledge that this place once embodied. The juxtaposition of ancient ruins against the modern cityscape was surreal.

Agora of Athens

Then, I visited the Agora of Athens, the heart of public life in ancient Greece. It was a hub for political, commercial, social, and cultural activities, where citizens gathered to discuss important issues, trade, and participate in religious events.

The Agora is known as the birthplace of Athenian democracy, where philosophers like Socrates and Plato debated ideas. As a history enthusiast, walking the same grounds was surreal. The Temple of Hephaestus, one of the best-preserved ancient temples, stands proudly here.

Ancient Agora Museum

By the way, take your time visiting the Ancient Agora Museum, housed in the Stoa of Attalos. It's a historical gem you don’t want to miss, with an impressive collection of artifacts. The museum provided fascinating context to the ruins outside, from pottery to ancient coins.

Seeking Shade in the Acropolis Museum

After hours of walking in the intense heat, I needed shade. What better place to go than a museum? Visiting the Acropolis Museum before heading to the Acropolis itself enhanced the experience. This wasn’t planned but I’m so glad it happened this way because you get so much insight

Entrance Fee: 20 Euros but recently I read an article saying it may increase the price to 30 Euros HERE is the official website so you can check the price.

The museum provides a wealth of historical information, making the Acropolis visit even more special. Many questions that arise while walking through the ruins are answered here.

Exploring the treasures inside the Acropolis Museum.

The museum is packed with incredible archaeological pieces. One of the most fascinating to me was how the pediments from the Acropolis tell two stories:

• The battle between Athena and Poseidon for control of Athens.

• Athena's birth from Zeus’s head.

The sculptures and artifacts brought the myths to life. If you're a fan of history and mythology, this museum is a must-see. The top floor, with its panoramic views of the Acropolis, is the cherry on top.

Strolling Through Plaka

After the museum, I was exhausted. Walking in the heat takes its toll, but instead of taking a taxi, I decided to walk back to the hotel, passing through Plaka.

This neighborhood, full of restaurants, cafes, and shops, was beautiful. The narrow, winding streets and historic buildings gave it a charming village feel right in the heart of the city.

I stumbled upon a quaint cafe where I tried a Freddo, a foamy iced coffee that's both refreshing and delicious. So if you are a coffee lover try this beverage.

Tip: Stay hydrated! Athens' weather is no joke, especially if you're visiting during a heatwave like I did. Carry water and take breaks as needed.

Evening Delight: Sipping Cocktails with a View

After a much-needed shower and rest, it was time to enjoy the sunset. And there's no better way than heading to one of the rooftops overlooking the Acropolis. The hotel receptionist recommended Attic Urban Rooftop, and it was an excellent choice.

The view of the Acropolis was as breathtaking as the sunset. Live music from a DJ set the perfect ambiance, and the friendly bartender crafted cocktails that were anything but boring. The signature cocktails were a delightful twist on classics. I highly recommend this place for a memorable evening.

Authentic Greek Cuisine at Μπαχανέζος

Now let’s talk food. I spent a while looking for an authentic restaurant away from the touristy spots and found one named Μπαχανέζος (Bachanézos).

Authentic dining at Μπαχανέζος.

If you're looking for an authentic experience, this is the place to visit. It’s not a fancy establishment, but it's full of locals, and the food was amazing flavorful, fresh, and genuine Greek cuisine. The moussaka and souvlaki were to die for. This is the address of the restaurant in Google Maps

Tip: Don’t be afraid af trying new dishes I did it and it was a success.

Tips for Day 1

• Nightlife Starts Late: If you want to experience the nightlife in Athens, be sure to go to the clubs after midnight. I tried going earlier, and to my surprise, the places were closed. Keep this in mind when planning your evening.

• Avoid Tourist Traps: Avoid restaurants near touristy areas. The prices are higher, and the food isn't as good as the authentic spots off the beaten path. Take your time to find local gems like Μπαχανέζος.

• Try a Freddo: If you love coffee, be sure to try a Freddo. This foamy, iced coffee drink tastes amazing and is incredibly refreshing on a hot day.

• Wear Comfortable Shoes: The cobblestone streets and archaeological sites require good footwear.

Day 2: Sunrise at the Acropolis and Hidden Gems

Beating the Crowds and the Heat at the Acropolis

After ending the night in a local bar, I woke up early to visit the Acropolis. Here's another valuable tip: be sure to get there around 7:30 am (the site opens at 8 am). Arriving early means you avoid the excessive crowds and the intense heat of midday.

During my visit, the heat was so extreme that the Acropolis was closed after noon. Many people were experiencing heat strokes, so visiting in the early hours is not just pleasant but safer.

Standing atop the hill, with panoramic views of Athens below, was a moment I'll never forget. The Parthenon, dedicated to the goddess Athena, is as magnificent as I'd imagined. The morning light gave it a golden hue.

Exploring the Olympieion and Syntagma Square

Olympieion (Temple of Olympian Zeus)

After the Acropolis, I visited the Olympieion, also known as the Temple of Olympian Zeus. Originally, it had 104 Corinthian columns, but today only 16 remain standing.

The sheer scale of the remaining columns hints at the grandeur that once was. It's humbling to stand beside structures that have withstood the test of time.

Changing of the Guard at Syntagma Square

Another recommendation was to watch the Changing of the Guard at Syntagma Square, in front of the Greek Parliament. Every hour on the hour, the elite guards perform a choreographed ceremony to relieve their comrades.

I was lucky to see the special Sunday ceremony at 11:00 am, accompanied by an orchestra. This event is not only a tribute to fallen Greek soldiers but also a popular tourist attraction. While it's quite long, it offers a glimpse into Greek traditions and customs. In the Vlog, you can see a glimpse of this ceremony.

Venturing into Kerameikos and Beyond

After the Changing of the Guard, it was time to visit Kerameikos, known both as the ancient potters’ quarter and home to the largest necropolis in Greece.

This archaeological site dates back to the 11th century BC, and its museum exhibits artifacts found during the excavations. One of the most interesting pieces for me was a Spartan shield. The peacefulness of the site contrasted with the bustling city.

Panathenaic Stadium

The only place from my ticket that I didn’t visit was Aristotle’s School because after seeing the others, I didn’t feel there was a reason to go since there were no structures left. Instead, I went to the Panathenaic Stadium, the site of the first modern Olympics in 1896.

Here, you can pay 5 Euros to visit the museum or just contemplate the structure from the outside. The stadium, made entirely of marble, is an impressive sight and a testament to Greece's athletic legacy.

Capturing Athens from Mount Lycabettus

The last attraction I visited was Mount Lycabettus, one of the highest points in Athens, offering breathtaking panoramic views of the city.

Getting There:

• Cable Car: A funicular railway runs every 30 minutes and costs 7.50 Euros for a round trip.

• Hike: If you're feeling adventurous and full of energy, you can hike to the top.

At the summit, you'll find the Church of St. George. According to Greek mythology, the mountain was created by the goddess Athena. From the top, you can see iconic monuments like the Acropolis and the Temple of Olympian Zeus. Watching the city transition from day to night was magical.

Final Thoughts and Recommendations

I feel like these two days in Athens were enough to see the city’s main attractions. However, if you plan to visit places like the Temple of Poseidon or Meteora, I recommend adding a few extra days.

Athens is an incredible city, and walking through a place with millennia of history—from metro stations adorned with artifacts to the top of the Acropolis—was a dream come true.

It’s worth mentioning how kind the Greeks are. From the hotel staff to the restaurant servers, the service and hospitality were always present. Without a doubt, Greece is one of the most hospitable countries I’ve visited.

Additional Tips

• Transportation: Getting around Athens is relatively easy. I mostly walked to immerse myself in the city, but the subway system is efficient and connects major points of interest. Consider purchasing a 24-hour transport ticket for 4.50 Euros if you plan to use public transit extensively. Also, you can take the subway to the Airport the ride is super easy and way cheaper than taking a taxi. To take the subway from Monastiraki to Athens Airport, simply get on the blue line (Metro Line 3) at Monastiraki station and ride it all the way to the end, which is the "Airport" station (Στ. Αεροδρομιου).

• Language and Currency: English is widely spoken in tourist areas, but learning a few Greek phrases is appreciated. The currency is the Euro (€).

• Respect Local Customs: When visiting religious sites, dress modestly. Shoulders and knees should be covered, especially in churches.

• Plan Ahead: Purchase tickets online when possible to save time. The combo ticket is a great value if you plan to visit multiple sites.

• Monastiraki Flea Market: Don't forget to visit the Monastiraki Flea Market if you're a shopping enthusiast. You're sure to find something unique—from antiques to handmade crafts.

Final Thoughts

My time in Athens was nothing short of amazing. From walking among ancient ruins to sipping coffee in charming neighborhoods, every moment was a blend of history and modern life. I can't wait to return and explore even more of what Greece has to offer.