One Day in Athens Itinerary Overview
Morning – History
Have you ever wondered if it’s possible to explore Athens in just one day? Many people fly into Athens and only spend a day or two before catching a flight or ferry to the Greek Islands, but Athens is a magical city that deserves more time. Therefore, we have put together the perfect one-day itinerary to help you make the most of your visit.
To plan your 1 day in Athens itinerary, consider purchasing the Acropolis and 6 archaeological sites entry pass, which includes key attractions such as:
- Entry to the Acropolis of Athens during your selected date and time slot.
- One-time entry to each site with the same ticket.
- A self-guided audio tour of Athens Old Town (Plaka).
- Self-guided audio tours of the Acropolis and Parthenon (if selected).
This pass is valid for five days from activation, allowing you to plan your visits to each attraction strategically.
Acropolis
Most of the itineraries you’ll encounter recommend starting your exploration at the Acropolis, and for good reason! Visiting the Acropolis in the morning helps you avoid crowds and the midday heat.
Plan to arrive at the Acropolis by 7:30 a.m. It’s advisable to find accommodation that offers breakfast early, as most start serving around 6:30 or 7:00 a.m. Remember to book your timed entry in advance, as slots fill up quickly!
During your visit, allocate about 90 minutes to admire the Acropolis and its various temples, including the Erechtheion, the Temple of Athena Nike, and the Odeon of Herodes Atticus, which is still an operational theater today.
Ancient Agora
Next, head downhill to the Ancient Agora, aiming for a timed entrance around 10:00 or 10:30 a.m., which allows ample time to appreciate the Acropolis before heading here. The Ancient Agora is the best-preserved ancient ruin in Athens, founded in the 6th century BC, and features the remarkable Temple of Hephaestus.
Stoa of Attalos
Don’t miss the opportunity to explore the Stoa of Attalos, a museum with beautiful restored columns. Allocate about 1 hour to enjoy the exhibits and the cool shade it provides.
Roman Agora
For your next stop, plan a timed entry for the Roman Agora around 11:30 a.m. Located close, this site allows you to walk among the ruins and appreciate the ancient structures for approximately 30 minutes.
Midday / Lunch: Greek Cuisine and Local Culture
By 1:00 p.m., it’s time to indulge in genuine Greek cuisine. We recommend booking a table in advance at a rooftop restaurant overlooking Monastiraki Square for captivating views of the Acropolis. Options like A Is for Athens serve brunch from 11:00 a.m. onwards.
Afternoon
After a fulfilling lunch, prepare to explore Monastiraki Square, known for street performers, authentic food stalls, and shops that sell unique souvenirs. This area is one of the oldest neighborhoods in Athens and an excellent starting point for your afternoon walking tour.
Ermou Street
Ermou Street is a pedestrian-friendly path, perfect for casual shopping and enjoying the lively atmosphere. You can stop by the Church of Panagia, a free-entry Byzantine church known for its beautiful architecture.
Syntagma Square
Head to Syntagma Square, Athens’ main square, often alive with protests and events. Witness the Greek Parliament buildings and, if you arrive on the hour, catch the changing of the guard ceremony, which happens regularly.
Syntagma Square Metro
Take a moment to glance at the archaeological exhibition within the metro station, featuring remarkable finds from the city’s history, including a 5th-century mosaic floor.
Dinner in Plaka
After your afternoon explorations, visit Plaka, the most picturesque neighborhood in Athens, for a dinner filled with authentic Greek dishes. With various dining options overlooking the Acropolis, you’re guaranteed a delightful experience.
Nightlife
If you’re up for continuing the adventure, return to Monastiraki Square to experience the vibrant nightlife between there and Syntagma Square.
This rich one-day itinerary covers the best Athens has to offer, from the ancient sites to picturesque views, blending culture, history, and gastronomy for an unforgettable experience.
