Athens has been mainly considered as a stopover destination before heading to the Greek islands. In the last couple of years, a number of travellers have opted for spending at least a day or two in Athens. However, if you want a proper introduction to one of the most historical cities in the world, then you must spend at least 4 days in Athens.
Before I tell you what you must see in Athens in 4 days, you must trust me right? For sure you will find many itineraries and articles on Athens by searching the web — this one has been written, tried and tested by someone who has been living in Greece for 26 years. Having studied and worked in the hospitality industry for the past 17 years — I like to believe that I do know Athens well. From actually taking guests on private tours of Athens, to recommending places to friends and travellers, going on numerous tours myself and having visited the Acropolis at least 50 times (no joke, it was a Sunday ritual to take all my parent’s business partners to the Acropolis since 1992) — let me introduce you to my Athens.
A Local’s Guide to Athens: How to Spend 4 Days in Athens
There is more to Athens than the city centre and the Acropolis. In fact Athens has one of the most beautiful rivieras in the world, the Athenian Riviera — with beautiful sandy beaches (Top 10 Beaches of Athens), world class marinas and luxury seaside resorts. A coastal road which begins in Palio Faliro and ends at the southernmost tip of Athens at the Temple of Poseidon — that’s the Athenian Riviera you absolutely must experience.
Temple of Poseidon
Arriving in Athens: Transportation from and to Athens International Airport
There are numerous transportation options which you can choose from when arriving at the Athens International Airport.
Book Your Private Airport Transfer with Welcome Taxi
If you do like to travel in comfort then a taxi would be your best option. To avoid the hassle of waiting in line and to be sure that you are getting your own personal driver you can pre-book a car online prior to your arrival. You will be met by the driver holding a name sign as soon as you come out at the arrivals with a bottle of water and city map.
The flat taxi rate is €38 from the airport to the city center. For arrivals from midnight until 5 am the cost is €54. Your trip will take approximately 35 minutes depending on the traffic. Book your Athens Airport Transfer
Regular Athens Taxis
There are plenty of taxis lined up right outside the Exit 3 on the Arrivals level. You will have to wait in queue to get your taxi.
Taxis are a convenient option, specifically if you have a lot of luggage and you’re not tight on budget. You’ll find dozens of taxis standing at the designated Taxi waiting area, right after you get out of Exit 3 of Arrivals Level.
The flat taxi rate is €38 from the airport to the city center. For arrivals from midnight until 5 am the cost is €54.
Metro
One of the fastest means of transportation is the metro. Take line 3 which goes straight from the Athens International Airport to the city Centre (Syntagma Square). It runs every 30 minutes, 7 days a week, from 6:30 am to 11:30 pm. The duration of the trip is around 40 minutes and the price of the ticket is €10.
The Athens metro is easy to use, there are escalators everywhere and elevators too.
Suburban Railway (Proastiakos)
The Suburban railway is an electric train that leaves from the airport and goes to the main Athens Railway Station or also known as Larissa Station. From here you can catch the train to other destinations in Greece. If you opt for this option you will have to switch and continue to the city centre (Metro Line 3 to Egaleo). The same ticket applies. Cost €10.
Bus
The express bus station is located outside the Arrivals. You can buy the ticket in one of the ticket booths located outside. There are five different bus lines depending on where you are going. The trip can take somewhere between 35 to 60 minutes.
X95 is the bus that goes to Syntagma Square and can take from 30 to 60 minutes depending on the time of day. Cost €6.
The Athens City and Athenian Riviera Itinerary
4 Days in Athens: Day 1
Climb up to the Acropolis
On your four day in Athens itinerary let’s start with the all time classic — the Acropolis. As cliche as it may sound you cannot leave Athens without climbing to the top of the oldest historical monuments in the world, a UNESCO World Heritage Site.
I recommend that you start your Athens city break with a visit to the Acropolis as it will give you the required knowledge and understanding of the ancient Greek civilisation before you explore the rest of the city.
Erechtheion
Crowning the highest point of the city of Athens (150 meters above sea level) — Acropolis has taken its name from two words Akron meaning the highest point and Polis translating as the city.
Findings show that the hill where Acropolis stands until this day, was inhabited during the Neolithic period (4000/3500-3000 BC). In mid 5th century BC the Acropolis was the greatest cultural centre of its time.
The most famous building at the Acropolis is the Parthenon which was dedicated to the goddess Athena and is considered to be the abiding symbol of Ancient Greece. The Parthenon was completed in 438 BC and is considered to be a pinnacle of the Doric order. Following a 10 year restoration and reconstruction period (2007- 2017) carried out by the Greek Ministry of Culture — the Parthenon is one of the highlights of the Acropolis. What else is there to see?
Don’t miss the Propylaia (the gateway to the Acropolis), the Erechtheion (the Temple which was dedicated both to Athena and Poseidon, decorated with the 6 female figures – Caryatids) and the Temple of Athena Nike (found right at the entrance of Propylaia).
Themed Walking Tours of Athens with Greek TravelTellers
For those who are seeking a more interactive experience, I recommend the selection of unique tours offered by the Greek TravelTellers. I have done the Life and Death walking tour of Athens and found it extremely informative, fun and a great way to discover the fascinating history of the ancient Greeks. It is also great for families with children. Read my review of the tour here.
Odeon of Herodes Atticus
This ancient theatre is one of the must see attractions in Athens. Located at the foothill of the Acropolis overlooking the pedestrian street of Dioysiou Aeropagitou this magnificent amphitheater was built in AD 161 by an affluent Roman Herodes Atticus for his wife Regilla.
During the summer the Athens & Epidaurus Festival takes place at the Odeon of Herodes Atticus where you can enjoy some of the most fantastic performances of art, drama dance and music. Over the years, the theatre of Herodeon has welcomed some of the world’s most famous performance such as Luciano Pavarotti, Frank Sinatra, Sting, Maria Callas, just to name a few.
The events are held here between May and October. Check out this website for performances, dates and tickets.
The Acropolis Museum
Since its opening in June 2009, the new Acropolis Museum has been voted as one of the best museums in the world. Constructed from large glass panes it stands tall in the heart of Athens’ historical city center.
The museum was designed and completed by New York’s, Bernard Tschumi who also designed the Museum of Modern Art in New York among other world famous buildings. Together with the local Greek architect Michael Photiadis they created a spectacular home for Greece’s most valued historical possessions.
The Acropolis Museum spans over three floors: on the top floor you will discover the frieze of the temple of Parthenon as well as 92 relief panels which were once part of the temple and depict the legendary battles which took place in the Greek mythology.
On the first floor of the museum you will find the five Caryatids which are the original version of the maidens that supported the porch of the Erechtheion. The sixth one is housed in the British Museum in London, as it was moved there by Lord Elgin. The permanent exhibition on level one displays remnants from the archaic period — one of the highlights is the depict of Heracles wrestling a mythological beast, a lioness attacking a taurus, and a three bodied monster holdings objects. On the same level you will find the Archaic Gallery lined with statues dating back to the 7th century BC.
The ground floor which is also the entrance of the museum is the Gallery of the Slopes that displays a collection of artefacts which depict how life was like in ancient Greece. The glass floor allows you to witness the excavations which were uncovered during the construction of the museum.
Tips:
The Acropolis Museum features a restaurant which is open from 8am in the summer and 9am in the winter months. It serves breakfast, lunch and beverages throughout the week. Dinner is served until 10pm on Fridays.
In the summer you can also enjoy the view of the Acropolis and the Acropolis Museum from the rooftop bar & restaurant POINT a.
Admission fee: €10
If you wish you can also book a 4 hour Acropolis and Acropolis Museum Tour with Entry Tickets
Opening hours:
Summer Season (1 April – 31 October)
Monday 8am – 4 pm (last admission: 3:30 pm)
Tuesday – Sunday 8am – 8pm (last admission: 7:30 p.m.)
Friday 8am – 10 pm (last admission: 9:30 p.m.)
Winter Season (1 November – 31 March)
Monday – Thursday 9am – 5pm (last admission: 4:30 p.m.)
Friday 9am – 10 pm (last admission: 9:30 p.m.)
Saturday – Sunday 9am – 8 pm (last admission: 7:30 p.m.)
Hadrian’s Arch
Located on the main road which leads to the Syntagma Square, the Hadrian’s Arch was build in 131 AD by Emperor Hadrian to separate the new and old cities of Athens.
From one side of the arch there is an inscription that reads “This is Athens the former city of Theseus” while the other side says “This is the City of Hadrian not Theseus”.
The Temple of Olympian Zeus
Soaring 500 meters above sea level the Temple of Olympian Zeus is located right next to the Hadrian’s Arch. Its construction began in 515 BC by Pisistratus, the son of Hippocrates however it was only completed by Emperor Hadrian in 129 AD.
The temple was built out of marble which was from Mount Pentelus and the structure was supported by 104 columns, only 15 of which remain standing until this day.
Wander Around the Neighborhood of Plaka and Anafiotika
One of the most picturesque neighborhoods of Athens is Plaka and the quaint little historical village of Anafiotika which resembles the feeling of being on a Greek island. Wandering past this quiet neighbourhood you will quickly forget that you are in the heart of a major metropolis.
Anafiotika was built in 19th century by builders who moved here from the Cyclades island of Anafi, located close to Santorini. This small authentic island has not been touched by mass tourism.
The houses resemble the same architecture, whitewashed buildings completed with colourful doors and windows, adorned with plants and bougainvillea pathways.
There are no souvenir shops in this neighbourhood, but you can enjoy a refreshing beverage, lunch or dinner in one of the cafes and taverns that line the narrow streets. You can easily spend the entire afternoon wandering around and soaking in the tranquility of this special place.
Visit a local Hammam
If you wish to treat yourself to a relaxing afternoon after a full day of exploring Athens, then a visit to an authentic Hammam will leave your body relaxed and ready to tackle your second day of the Athens itinerary.
You can read all about my experience of visiting the Al Hammam which is located in Plaka.
4 Days in Athens: Day 2
On your second day of the 4 days in Athens itinerary you can choose to visit the proposed Athens attractions based on your interests.
The Panathenaic Stadium
The Panathenaic Stadium which is also commonly referred to as the Kallimarmaro stadium is one of Athens’ most important landmarks.
Its history is closely linked to the modern Olympic Games which were held here for the first time in 1896. It also played a vital role in the Athens Olympic Games in 2004. The stadium is also the place where the Olympic flame commences its journey to the host cities of Olympic Games — Winter, Summer and Youth. It is one of the most visited sites therefore the best times to visit are either in the morning or in the evening.
Operating hours:
March – October: 08 am – 7 pm (last admission at 19:00)
November – February: 08 am – 5 pm (last admission at 17:00)
Entrance Fee: € 5,00 full price and € 2,50 reduced
National Gardens
The National Garden is set right in the heart of Athens and was once a private refuge of the King and Queen.
Queen Amalia was greatly fond of the garden and would spend endless hours there. This peaceful retreat is a wonderful oasis inside the bustling city of Athens. You can either enjoy it at your own leisure or join one of the suggested Athens tours. You can read about the Neoclassical Athens and Dine Like Athenian Aristocracy tour which I have been on.
Changing of Guards at the Hellenic Parliament
The beautifully dressed guards that you will encounter in front of the Hellenic Parliament are members of the Presidential Guard and are known as the Evzones.
It is considered an honour for the young gentlemen to be selected to serve this position during their military obligations. You can watch the changing of the guards every day, every hour on the hour.
Syntagma Square
Syntagma Square is the main square of Athens and the one that received its name from the Constitution that the first King of Greece Otto was obliged to grant.
Here you will find the Greek Parliament building which initially served as a palace of Kings Otto and George I. From here the square extends to the Ermou Street which is the central shopping street of Athens and is one of the first three streets that were designed in modern Athens. Read more about my experience with Discover Greek Culture Athens tour.
Shopping in Athens
At a close walking distance from Syntagma Square you will find the Voukourestiou Street in the Kolonaki district which is lined with high-end boutiques like Prada, Dior and Louis Vuitton.
There is also the Attica Department store where you can shop for anything from cosmetics to designer clothes.
For souvenir shopping head to Monastiraki where you will find endless shopping opportunities.
On the second day of your four day Athens itinerary, I recommend that you take a break from exploring the city centre and head out to discover the Athenian Riviera. Unless you have rented a car and decide to visit the Cape Sounio by yourself, the best and easiest way to do it is book an afternoon tour.
Watch the Sunset at the Temple of Poseidon
Visiting the Temple of Poseidon which is located on the southernmost tip of Attica region is a must when you are in Athens.
Apart from being an important historical landmark it has also been voted as one of the most spectacular sunset spots in Greece. You will see why when you get there (please note that the opening hours are slightly different during the summer)
The afternoon tour ( Cape Sounion with Guided Tour in the Temple of Poseidon) will take you along the coastal road past the famous beaches of Glyfada, Vouliagmeni, Varkiza and other coastal towns. The duration of this tour is approximately 4 hours which means you will be back in Athens in time for dinner. Check out our post on the best Restaurants and Bars in Athens.
4 Days in Athens: Day 3
On the morning of your third day in Athens, your 4 day Athens itinerary will take you to discover more of the city center.
The Varvakeios Central Market is located a short walking distance from the Monastiraki Square. Continue your 4 days in Athens itinerary with the following options. Of course you can always move your program around depending on whether or not you are going to do any tours.
Walk Through the Varvakeios Central Market
This bustling central market is an absolute must experience when in Athens. Selling everything from fresh fish, meat, fruits, vegetables, spices and other products — it is an exciting part of the city.
The best time to visit the market would be in the morning or the first part of the day. If you wish to get a closer introduction to the fascinating food culture you can either opt for a Food Tour of Athens (read about my Food Tour experience here) or even better learn how to cook Greek food with Vasia (book the same experience here). Watch the video of my cooking experience below.
Monastiraki Square
The lively Monastiraki Square is a juxtaposition of eras and cultures, an all day centre of activity it includes attractions such as Hadrian’s Library, the Ancient Agora as well as the popular Flea market selling souvenirs, sandals and Greek artisan products.
The square is connected with the Athenas Street which is the location of the famous Varvakeios Central Market. Here you will also find a few popular rooftop bars such as A for Athens and 360 Bar.
At a close walking distance from Monastiraki Square, you will come across the famous Instagrammable street that is home to the Little Kook Cafe. The Pittaki Street leads towards the lively neighborhood of Psyrri — where you will find many restaurants, bars, and local taverns.
Hadrian’s Library
Built-in a typical Roman style Hadrian’s Library was completed by Emperor Hadrian in AD 132 — it also housed music and lecture rooms.
The impressive columned facade has been well preserved until this day. It is best to visit this landmark in the first part of the day as it closes at 3pm.
Ancient Agora
Once the heart of ancient Athens, the Ancient Agora was the hub for all the political, commercial, administrative and social activity. It was also a religious and cultural centre.
This landmark is important for the significance of its history rather than the buildings which are found here, thus if you do find history fascinating my advice for you is to take a guided tour. There are various tours which you can take — the Athens Mythology Highlights Tour or if you specifically just want the tour of Agora you can book the Guided Tour of Ancient Agora and Agora Museum.
Athens Street Art Tour
Athens may not come to mind as a city famous for street art — however you will be surprised.
The street art in Greece was around since the 1980’s however it gained momentum in 1998 when the Greek capital organized the first international graffiti festival, an initiative of the Hellenic-American Union, which was held northwest of the Acropolis. A group called Carpe Diem, one of whose founders was Vangelis Hoursoglou (a.k.a Woozy), was established to support graffiti artists and to provide them with legal basis as well as with canvases.
With Woozy
Visit the three neighbourhood of Athens on a 3 hour Street Art tour and learn all about the fascinating masterpieces which decorate the walls of Athens. You can also read about my experience of this tour here.
4 Days in Athens: Day 4
On your fourth day in Athens we recommend that you take a day trip to either the Greek islands or Delphi, depending on the season. If you are visiting Athens in the summer you can also spend the day on the beach in the Athenian Riviera.
Glyfada Beach
OPTION 1: Beaches of the Athenian Riviera
If you decide to go to the beach and you are staying in the centre of Athens, you can take the tram from Syntagma Square (number 5) with the final stop in Voula.
You can also spend the morning shopping in the area of Glyfada which is filled with numerous boutiques, coffee shops and restaurants.
OPTION 2: Day trip to Three Greek Islands
Start your day early at 8 am and board the vessels which will take you on a vibrant excursion around three Greek islands — Hydra, Poros and Aegina.
Discover the beautiful island life, enjoy onboard entertainment and experience some of the famous Saronic Islands. Weather permitting you can do this cruise at all times of year. Read all about my experience here.
You can book the same experience here. If you do opt for the three island day cruise from Athens, make sure to visit the Temple of Aphaia. The temple was built at an equal distance from the Parthenon in Athens and the Temple of Poseidon.
OPTION 3: Day Trip to Delphi
If you are visiting in winter and swimming is not an option you might like to take a day trip to Delphi.
On this trip you will explore the Omphalos which is the Navel of the Earth and visit the remains of the Sanctuary of Apollo Pythios. You will also pass the towns of Livadeia and Arachova set on the slopes of Mount Parnassus, a popular winter ski destination in Greece.
This is a full day tour. You can book you experience here.
As you can see for yourself Athens offers its visitors a whole array of experiences, from historical monuments to endless cultural activities, fun tours, world class dining, shopping, fantastic beaches and much more. You can easily spend 4 day in Athens or more. I hope that this itinerary will give you a glimpse of what this wonderful city is all about. If you have any questions, don’t hesitate to get in touch! In the meantime have fun planning your trip to Athens.
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