How to spend a weekend in Athens
Athens is often treated as a brief stopover on the way to the Greek islands, with many travelers spending just a day or skipping it entirely. However, this historic capital deserves its own spotlight. To show you why, we’ve partnered with Riddhi from beantowntraveller, a travel blogger who recently explored the city and fell in love with its blend of ancient history and modern energy. Based on her experiences here is a guide on how to make the most of a weekend in Athens.
A Weekend Guide to Athens
For a city packed with millennia of history, planning your time is key. Athens’ city center is compact and walkable, but its layers of culture can take time to appreciate. Here are Riddhi’s top recommendations for a memorable weekend.
How Many Days to Spend
To properly explore the main historical sites without rushing, plan for at least two full days. If you want to include a day trip to nearby destinations like the Temple of Poseidon at Sounion, Delphi, or the Athens Riviera, extending your weekend to three days is ideal.
Getting Around Athens
The historical center of Athens is best explored on foot, as many of the main attractions are located within a short distance of each other. For longer distances, the city’s metro system is efficient and easy to navigate. You can purchase a 3-day tourist ticket for €20, which includes a round trip to and from the airport. Taxis are also readily available; using a ride-hailing app like FREE NOW or Uber can provide a more seamless experience with clear pricing.
Visit the Acropolis
No trip to Athens is complete without visiting the Acropolis, the ancient citadel perched above the city. Home to iconic structures like the Parthenon, the Erechtheion, and the Propylaea, this UNESCO World Heritage site is the heart of ancient Greece. To avoid long queues, especially during peak season (April to October), it is essential to book your tickets online in advance from the official Hellenic Heritage website.
Climb Areopagus Hill
Located just northwest of the Acropolis entrance, Areopagus Hill (Areios Pagos) offers stunning panoramic views of the Acropolis and the Ancient Agora. This large marble rock is free to climb and is a popular spot for both locals and tourists to sit and take in the cityscape. The steps can be slippery, so wear appropriate footwear.
Explore Anafiotika
Tucked away on the northern slopes of the Acropolis hill lies Anafiotika (Αναφιώτικα), a small, charming neighborhood that feels like a Cycladic island transported to the city. Built in the 19th century by workers from the island of Anafi, its narrow, winding pathways are lined with whitewashed, bougainvillea-covered houses. It’s a peaceful escape from the bustling streets below.
Relax on the Mnisikleous Street Stairs
In the heart of the Plaka district, the stairs of Mnisikleous Street (Οδός Μνησικλέους) are lined with cafes where patrons sit on cushions placed directly on the steps. It is an ideal spot to grab a Greek coffee or a refreshing drink, enjoy some light bites, and soak up the lively atmosphere.
Wander Through Plaka
Plaka is one of Athens’ oldest neighborhoods, located at the base of the Acropolis. Its labyrinthine streets are filled with neoclassical architecture, family-run tavernas, souvenir shops, and small museums. Spend a few hours getting lost in its alleys, discovering hidden courtyards and ancient ruins that appear unexpectedly between modern buildings.
Watch the Sunset from Filopappou Hill
For one of the best sunset views in Athens, head to Filopappou Hill (Λόφος Φιλοπάππου). This public park offers a clear, unobstructed view of the Acropolis as the setting sun bathes it in a golden glow. It’s a favorite spot for photographers and anyone looking for a memorable evening vista. The walk to the top is gentle and rewarding.
Experience Monastiraki Square
Monastiraki Square is a vibrant hub of activity day and night. Known for its flea market, the square is surrounded by shops, historic landmarks like the Tzistarakis Mosque, and Hadrian’s Library. In the evening, the area comes alive as people gather to admire the illuminated Acropolis from the square or from one of the many popular rooftop bars nearby, such as A for Athens or 360 Cocktail Bar.
Step into a Fairytale at Little Kook
For a completely different experience, visit Little Kook in the Psiri neighborhood. This patisserie is famous for its elaborate, fairytale-themed decorations that change seasonally throughout the year. The immersive decor extends from the facade to the interior, creating a magical atmosphere to enjoy decadent cakes, desserts, and drinks.
Making the Most of Athens
A weekend in Athens offers the perfect amount of time to connect with its ancient past while enjoying its vibrant present. From the monumental Acropolis to the charming streets of Plaka, the city is full of rewarding experiences. This guide, inspired by the travels of Riddhi at beantowntraveller, covers the essential stops for a first-time visitor.
For more detailed information to help you plan your travels in Greece, please visit our Athens city page.
