What to Do in Athens, Greece: 2 Days of Ancient Archaeology
LAST UPDATED: SEPTEMBER 30, 2025 | TRAVEL DATES: JUNE 2025 | EST. READING TIME: 15 MIN
IN THIS GUIDE ✺
Pet friendly felines by ancient ruins, taste Michelin-star innovation alongside rustic Greek classics, and wander from lively squares to hilltop sunsets — this 2-day Athens itinerary blends archaeology, artistry, and authentic bites into a perfect first-timer’s experience.
The most common mainland entry point before getting on island time, grungy Athens is typically a required Greece stop juxtaposed significantly with the remainder of your whitewashed Cycladic experience. Nevertheless, this gritty city is not to be overlooked, even if it’s a bit rough around the edges.
Explore layers of history spanning millennia through ancient archaeological sites scattered around the city. As the birthplace of democracy and Western philosophy, this key cultural capital of Greek and later Roman civilizations is teeming with echoes of the past. In modern times, a rebellious subculture has been painted on top, with street art and graffiti murals splashed across all free surfaces. Bring textbook trivia to life on a guided Acropolis tour, feast on art for the eyes and mouth in elevated Athenian favorites, and learn from the local people (or their cats) as you uncover what to do with 2 days in Athens, Greece.
2 Days in Athens Itinerary
In a hurry? Here’s a time-stamped overview of the detailed what to do in Athens 2 day itinerary you’ll find below:
Day 1
Meeting the Locals
10:00 - 10:45 AM: 🧌 Ease into your Greek adventure with a fairytale breakfast at Little Kook (45 min)
11:00 AM - 12:00 PM: 🐈⬛ Meet the stray cat colonies around the Acropolis on a guided Airbnb tour (1 hr)
12:15 - 1:00 PM: 🍷 Grab a light bite and admire street art from cool-girl coded Wine is Fine (45 min)
1:15 - 2:00 PM: 🍯 Snack on a local-approved plate of traditional sheep-milk yogurt at STANI (45 min)
2:20 - 3:00 PM: 🧿 Shop around the flea market and souvenir stalls flanking Monastiraki Square (40 min)
3:00 - 3:30 PM: 📜 Peek at Hadrian’s Library, the Roman and Ancient Agoras from the street (30 min)
7:00 - 9:00 PM: ⭐ Indulge in an inventive, one Michelin star dinner from Hervé’s 15-course menu (2 hr)
Day 2
All Things Acropolis
9:00 - 9:30 AM: 🥐 Bite into a creamy, pistachio custard-filled croissant from Overoll Croissanterie (30 min)
9:45 - 10:45 AM: 🏟️ Peek at the Temple of Olympian Zeus, Panathenaic Stadium, and Zappeion (1 hr)
11:00 - 11:30 AM: 💂 Watch the ceremonial Changing of the Guard on Sundays in Syntagma Square (30 min)
11:45 AM - 1:45 PM: 🏺 Examine Parthenon pieces and Athena artifacts inside the Acropolis Museum (2 hr)
1:45 - 3:15 PM: 🍳 Taste Peloponnesian flavors with a modern presentation at homey MANIMANI (1 hr 30 min)
5:00 - 7:00 PM: 🏛️ Climb the fortified hill on a guided Acropolis Tour to learn about the remaining ruins (2 hr)
8:00 - 9:30 PM: 🌇 See Athens from above during a sunset dinner at Orizontes Lycabettus (1 hr 30 min)
Where is Athens?
The Greek capital with over 3 million metropolitan residents, Athens lies open to the Aegean Sea on the Attica Peninsula in southern Greece, while otherwise being completely bordered by mountains around the landmass. Its Mediterranean setting means sun-soaked days and breezy evenings engulfed in both Greek and Roman history, with easy ferry access to the Cyclades.
As Greece’s main travel hub, Athens is the gateway for island-hopping adventures. Beyond the iconic Acropolis, day trips reveal even more—lounge around Lake Vouliagmeni south of the city, discover the Temple of Poseidon at Cape Sounion, or stroll through the ruins of Delphi tucked into the mountains.
How to Get Around Athens?
WALK: Once you’ve reached your intended stomping grounds for the day, walking is the best way to get around. Unlike cities such as Paris where the scale is misleading and most tourist sites are actually quite far apart, Athens is remarkably compact—so much so that you could easily see the top landmarks in a single day. Monastiraki Square for example is tiny in practice and little distinction exists between the various neighborhoods; one flows into the next via narrow cobblestone streets bordered by shops and restaurants, meaning hidden gems tucked away in these alleys are best discovered on foot.
PUBLIC TRANSIT: Athens is connected via a network of buses, two trams, three metro lines, and a Hellenic Train railway linking the city center with suburbs and coastal regions. Common tickets are valid across the metro, buses, and trams whether they be physical ATH.ENA cards or acquired virtually through Tap2Ride contactless payment.
For the purposes of this 2 days in Athens itinerary, public transportation is rarely needed. Commuting to and from the Athens International Airport is simple and convenient with the M3 line; otherwise, consider taking transit to dinners at Hervé and Orizontes Lycabettus given they’re slightly farther away from the city center. The green M1 Petralona station is only a 4 minute walk from Hervé, and similarly the blue M3 Evangelismos stop is a 12 minute, albeit uphill walk to the Lycabettus hill funicular.
DRIVE: Whether hailed off the street or via an app, taxis are the quickest yet most expensive way to get around. Supported ride-share apps Uber and FreeNow both call licensed taxis, with the added benefit of fare transparency given the total cost is presented up front. Regardless of booking method, riders are not obliged to pay in cash, as affirmed by signs posted within these official vehicles.
How to Get from the Airport to Athens?
PUBLIC TRANSIT: The most cost-effective way to reach the center of Athens from the Athens International Airport is via the blue Metro 3 line towards Dimotiko Theatro, which heads directly to Monastiraki Square. This route initially runs above ground and resembles a train.
Follow “Trains/Metro” signs inside the airport, cross the elevated pedestrian bridge at the Departures level, purchase a one-way €9 or roundtrip €16 ticket in-person from ATH.ENA machines in the station, then head down the escalator to board the 41 minute ride over 16 stops.
TAXI: Alternatively, hop in a taxi or hail one via a ride-share app to take the 40 minute drive into the center of Athens. Uber and FreeNow both book licensed taxis, with app-based pickups operating at the Arrivals level across from Exit 4. Standard flat fee fares of €40 during the day and €55 during the evening are enforced by Greek taxi regulations.
Where to Stay in Athens?
For a short 2-day stay in Athens, it’s worth paying elevated rates for a central base allowing you to easily walk to nearby archaeological sites. The neighborhoods of Plaka, Monastiraki, Psiri, and Syntagma are the most convenient given they wrap around the north face of the Acropolis:
Plaka is notoriously the most picturesque—and touristy as a result—boasting a charming “old town” aesthetic with cobblestone streets, neoclassical houses, and a village-like feel. Tiny Anafiotika is a fan-favorite within the larger historic neighborhood.
Monastiraki sits above Plaka as a bustling flea market hub full of souvenir stalls and the often recommended rooftop bars A for Athens and Attic Urban Rooftop.
Syntagma to the right of Monastiraki is the formal heart of Athens featuring major hotels, the Hellenic Parliament building in the square, and a polished, central-city vibe.
Psiri sits the furthest north above Monastiraki as a trendy, youthful district with edgy street art, effortlessly chic wine bars, and stylish vintage shopping like Treasure House.
If you spot a cheap deal in Omonoia don’t be fooled—this seedy area is often discouraged for tourists seeking Athens accommodations given the bleak ambiance, or lack thereof, and high petty crime rates.
For a central budget backpacker option, I spent 2 nights at SafeStay Athens in Monastiraki. While not my most pleasant hostel experience—I draw the line at lacking curtains around a squeaky bunk bed—it’s located mere steps from the Metro station which is a nice perk if you have particularly heavy luggage you’d like to avoid dragging around.
What to Do in Athens?
Day 1
Meeting the Locals 🐈⬛
Breakfast - Little Kook
On the morning of your first day, kick off this what to do in Athens 2 day itinerary with a beginner breakfast at Little Kook. While not the quaint Greek grandmother’s kitchen you’ll find on islands like Paros with slow-paced, laid-back service, this eye-catching maximalist eatery in the heart of trendy Psiri is worth a stop for a quick meal to ease into your international adventure. A Snow White and the Seven Dwarfs theme permeates the expansive outdoor establishment with whimsical decor rotated seasonally, adding to the theatrics of this over-the-top sweet and savory crêpe patisserie.
The regally costumed servers are guaranteed to speak English and happily answer any inquiries you have about the city given they’re quite accustomed to serving tourists—and charging them an inherently overpriced fare. Children are treated with particular kindness when believing they’ve stumbled upon a real-life prince or princess, and you may even walk away with a helpful travel tidbit such as: always choose to be charged in euros when paying by card, not your home currency.
Cats of the Acropolis Tour
Before dedicating two days to looking at ancient architecture under the blistering Athenian sun, begin your time in the capital with an adorable Airbnb tour meeting the stray cat colonies who live around the Acropolis slopes. Hosted by a local volunteer, meet at the Thissio Metro Station upper entrance then take a leisurely 1-hour stroll in the shade while being personally introduced to each friendly feline—from Marshmallow and Bagel to June and Jos.
Even when caring for upwards of fifty cats, the host Eirini distinctly recognizes each one when approached and somehow manages to remember all their names. As a partially philanthropic endeavor, the funds from your $23 ticket go towards feeding and medicating these sweet strays.
Lunch - Wine is Fine
After the tour, grab a light bite at cool-girl coded Wine is Fine when it’s way too hot for a hearty meal in the peak of the afternoon. Walk into this no reservation café open daily with a rotating chef residency, limited lunch menu, and low entrants wine for a lowkey local experience. Sitting outside offers a prime view of nearby street art, best paired with a plate of creamy tarama toast.
Snack - STANI
Treat your sweet tooth with an authentic plate of sheep-milk yogurt at STANI, producing this traditional recipe since 1931. The grungy location is a bit out of the way of the touristic central neighborhoods, but worth the trek to try this €4 local-approved dairy delight topped with honey and walnuts.
Monastiraki Square
Head back south towards the center of the city, passing through Monastiraki Square in the middle of the Ermou shopping street. This commercial public plaza is flanked by a flea market, providing you ample opportunity to secure a souvenir from the many vendors selling leather goods, evil eye motifs, and Athens-branded merchandise. Prioritize shopping on a Sunday when the market is in full swing, or when you’re in need of refreshment given the shaded awnings, restaurant misters, and fans lining the streets provide some cooling relief.
Hadrian's Library
Directly below Monastiraki Square is Hadrian’s Library, a 132 A.D. intellectual complex of reading rooms, lecture halls, and courtyards for philosophical discussion commissioned by Roman Emperor Hadrian in an effort to enhance Athens’ reputation as a prestigious cultural capital.
Prior to 2025, Hadrian’s Library was one of seven ancient archaeological sites included in an all-encompassing €30 combination pass. This deal has since been discontinued, requiring visitors to purchase individual timed tickets to access each landmark. Sightseeing in Athens has since become astronomically more expensive, coming out to a grand total of €105 if you were to purchase tickets for each of the same sites today.
To avoid an unnecessary splurge, I don’t recommend spending €10 on Hadrian’s Library given you can fully see the external architecture through the barely-there fence that frames the space without blocking the scenery.
Roman Agora
Walking backwards in time, find the Roman Agora next door, the new grand marketplace built in the 1st century B.C. during the reign of Julius Caesar and Augustus once the older Ancient Agora became too crowded. Modernizing Athens’ urban life with this Roman-style marketplace, it included shops, a central courtyard, and the Tower of the Winds—a timekeeping and weather device.
Similarly, I wouldn’t consider this site worth €10 given you can clearly see the associated structures from the street.
Ancient Agora
Reaching the oldest landmark of the day, the Ancient Agora down the road was the original civic and social heart of Athens, dating back to the Archaic and Classical periods from the 6th century B.C. onwards. The political center where democracy was born and Socrates once taught, temples like the Temple of Hephaestus and stoas—or covered walkways—were built around it.
Following the same recommendation as the Roman Agora above, save your €20 and simply view this landmark from the street, especially since the site is mostly square foundational blocks with scattered low-lying columns and only a few significant structures left standing.
Dinner - Hervé
Instead of dropping €105 on ancient archaeological sites that can be completely seen from the street, save this splurge for a one Michelin star dinner at Hervé. Serving a seasonal 15-course tasting menu with an optional wine pairing and caviar, foie gras, or wagyu add-ons, an evening at Hervé is full of theatrics. Take the quail main presented in a two-tiered cocotte for example, a nose-to-tail ode to the creamy quail egg appetizer that’s held a spot on the menu since the restaurant’s inception. At €120 total that's less than $10 per dish, making this memorable meal more than worth the splurge.
Day 2
All Things Acropolis 🏛️
Breakfast - Overoll Croissanterie
Begin day 2 in Athens with a flaky, laminated croissant stuffed with silky custard from Overoll. This grab-and-go croissanterie has a standard lineup of favorite flavors including pistachio, Nutella, and strawberry alongside seasonal specialities like the “cronie”—a butter croissant cone filled with vanilla bean ice cream and topped with syrups and crumbles like salted caramel.
With your pastry in hand wander through the picturesque neighborhood of Plaka passing the Benizelos Mansion, the oldest house in Athens with a wine and olive press in the backyard to explore. While technically a free site, cash donations are encouraged. Thiki Greece is next door, a colorful concept store chock full of funky souvenirs with quirky, Greek-themed sayings.
Eventually you’ll reach the Arch of Hadrian, a monumental 131 A.D. gateway marking the symbolic boundary between ancient Athens and the new Roman city. The free Zappeio Roman Bath exhibition is also up the road, where you can walk around these sunken ruins from a viewing platform circling the complex.
Temple of Olympian Zeus
Continue your ancient archaeological sightseeing with a stop by the Temple of Olympian Zeus. Conceived by the tyrant Peisistratos in the 6th century B.C. as a colossal temple to honor the king of the gods, this construction project lasted centuries and remained incomplete until 132 A.D. when Roman Emperor Hadrian finished the job.
Ironically, construction continues today and the 104 massive columns meant to rival the greatest ancient temples are almost entirely obscured by scaffolding. If you were to skip out on purchasing only one ticket it should be this €20 swindle; instead, peer at the restoration project through a gap in the bushes alongside Leoforos Vasilissis Olgas, directly across the road from Tuk Tuk Athens. It will be fairly obvious to find, with other tourists congregating around.
Panathenaic Stadium
Stroll through the Zappeion Garden to the next landmark nearby, the entirely marble Panathenaic Stadium. Hosting the ancient Panathenaic Games honoring Athena with athletic and musical competitions, it was later restored for the first modern Olympics in 1896; skip the €10 ticket and observe the entire structure from the outside. The one differentiator that could make entering this landmark worthwhile is climbing the slippery stone grandstands to the top for an elevated perspective, but keep in mind that a better viewpoint awaits in the afternoon.
Zappeion Megaron
Loop back around to the Zappeion Megaron, a 19th-century neoclassical exhibition hall similarly built for the revival of the first Olympic games which now hosts cultural events and Greek political milestones. Step inside on a weekday to explore the open-air circular atrium and potentially the public foyers when no event setup is underway.
Syntagma Square
Meander through the National Garden—which occasionally closes during bad weather—to reach Syntagma Square. The central square of the city, on Sundays the Changing of the Guard occurs at 11:00 AM complete with a military band procession and the Evzones ceremonial guards in full traditional uniform wearing tsarouchia clogs topped with pom-poms. A less elaborate affair occurs every hour on the hour as the elite infantry unit switches posts at the Tomb of the Unknown Soldier, symbolizing all Greek soldiers who died during conflict.
Acropolis Museum
Finally, a historic exhibition where your hard-earned money is well spent—the Acropolis Museum preserves the treasures of the Acropolis. A must-do to learn the significance of the summit before climbing the actual slopes, this is the ideal air-conditioned site to visit during the middle of the day when it's unbearable to be outside in the summer. Read museum placards in flat, cool rooms across three floors of original sculptures and interactive reconstructions rather than while climbing a steep, hot hill.
Pro Tip:
Visit the Acropolis Museum before the Acropolis to gain an understanding of the remaining structures on the fortified hill, especially if you don’t book a guided tour of the latter.
The €20 ticket grants access to excavated artifacts spanning the prehistoric era through late antiquity which tell the story of Athens’ religious and civic life. If nothing else, visit the top floor with the same dimensions and orientation as the Parthenon to observe original frieze and sculptural decorations at eye level, an intimate view that otherwise would have been high above on the temple. The Athena collection is another highlight where photography is banned, featuring votive offerings, statues, and reconstructions dedicated to the goddess, including fragments of the massive Athena Parthenos once housed in the Parthenon.
Lunch - MANIMANI
A sophisticated taste of Mani Peninsula flavors, MANIMANI is a homey local favorite perfect for a relaxed lunch during the peak midday heat. Traditional Peloponnesian dishes are executed with a modern presentation, like the silky trilogy of fava beans, taramas, and tzatsiki effortlessly spread on handmade bread or the tsouhti pasta served since the restaurant's 2009 opening—drippy yolk break and all.
Acropolis Tour
Last but not least, the main event: climbing the infamous archaeological hill of the Acropolis to observe ancient temples on top like the Parthenon. In other words, the Acropolis and the Parthenon are not the same thing, and it’s these kinds of insights you can learn first-hand from a local guide on a walking tour dedicated to the most famous remnants of ancient Greece.
Pro Tip:
Athens travel guides often recommend an opening 8:00 AM Acropolis ticket, which has made this coveted time slot quite crowded. A late afternoon tour similarly does the trick with the setting sun providing ample shade, plus the site is significantly emptier.
There's hardly any informational placards around the Acropolis, so it's in your best interest to book a tour around this staggering site to learn the significance of all the remaining ruins. This GetYourGuide option beginning from the south slope offered the perfect amount of historical intrigue without getting too bogged down in the details of thousands of years of happenings, and the wireless audio guide system ensures you can clearly hear the live voiceover amidst tourist crowds.
If historical tours aren’t your thing, an alternative, interactive approach is to book tickets for cultural events inside the Odeon of Herodes Atticus whether it be a ballet, concert, musical, or more! One of the best-preserved ancient theaters in Greece, you’ll experience the 161 A.D. stone amphitheater as intended given it hosted similar public performances in antiquity, continuing this legacy today as one of the most atmospheric performance spaces in the world.
Dinner - Orizontes Lycabettus
End your time in Athens on a high note—literally—at Orizontes. Perched atop the highest peak of Athens on Lycabettus hill, ride the €13 funicular up to a panoramic view over the city that everybody needs to see at least once. Two friendly felines are known to frequent the establishment and may try to take a swing at your Mediterranean dinner, but it’s worth taking this risk for a prime outdoor seat.
Pro Tip:
Sunset is the most popular time to visit, so account for funicular wait times and the fact that you’ll need to physically purchase a ticket on site when planning your arrival.
If the restaurant is fully booked during your travel dates fear not, the casual Sky Bar is another dining option upstairs or simply head to the upper Church of Agios Georgios terrace to witness the magic of the city completely illuminated at night.
How Much Does 2 Days in Athens Cost?
Following the above Athens Greece in 2 days itinerary cost me $686.93, or $343.47/day as a female solo traveler on a 2-month abroad stint. I kept my travel expenses relatively low by staying in a budget-friendly hostel and skipping out on Athens archaeological landmark tickets I could plainly see from the street.
Food — $391.71
Activities — $68.66
Souvenirs — $70.31
Lodging — $71.17
Transportation — $85.08
I balanced expenses by making tradeoffs with my hostel accommodations while splurging on a multi-course Michelin star meal in addition to other upscale establishments. On a tighter budget, the evil eye souvenirs could easily be skipped and significantly more economical dining options are available around the city. Leverage Athens’ robust public transit network rather than FreeNow taxi rides as another money-saving tactic.
What to Wear in Athens?
Exude the elegance of ancient Athena during 2 days in Athens. Radiate class while strolling amongst archaeological sites—that’s a dewy shine, not sweat dripping from the sweltering heat of course—like the ancient Greeks once did while accommodating for summer circumstances with loose looks.
Locals lean into Mediterranean ease mixed with urban edge. Lightweight linen and airy sundresses are staples under the hot sun, paired with leather sandals that can handle marble slickness and uneven cobblestone sidewalks. Don’t shy away from a bit of functional flair — sleek sunglasses offer sun protection, structured handbags embody the rigidness of Doric columns, and gold meander jewelry is a classic Greek chic symbol elevating your ensemble to goddess status.
White-on-White
reflect striking sun rays while popping against the subtle golden hue of aged pentelic marble and limestone ruins
Strapless Sundresses
use the UV to your advantage with light-colored, loose linen sundresses to start working on a tan before hitting the islands
Linear Layouts
straight lines reflect the structured form of classical Greek columns seen in archaeological sites around the city
Fisherman Sandals
ditch the leather gladiators in Rome and opt for fisherman sandals as an ode to the country’s seafaring roots
Flea Market Finds
dare to be different incorporating the expressive, one-of-a-kind treasures discovered when hunting through Monastiraki
Meander Motifs
gold meander motifs incorporate one of the most recognizable symbols of ancient Greek art into your outfit
When is the Best Time to Visit Athens?
The culturally-rich Greek center, the capital remains a viable tourist destination throughout the year, with your ideal experience determining when to visit Athens:
Spring (March–May): Warm sunshine returns early in Athens, with highs in the 60s–70s °F (16–24°C). Wildflowers bloom across the hillsides and archaeological sites, while café terraces spill onto sidewalks without the heavy summer crowds. It’s an ideal shoulder season for sightseeing in pleasant, mild weather.
Summer (June–August): The city swelters under the blistering Athenian sun, with highs in the 80s–90s °F (30–35°C). Expect clear skies and long days, but also the heaviest tourist crowds. Many locals escape to the islands, leaving the city quieter in August except around the historic core. If you don’t mind heat and book ahead, it’s prime time for buzzing nightlife and al fresco dining.
Autumn (September–October): A golden season in Athens. The summer throngs thin, yet the sea is still warm enough for island-hopping day trips. Temperatures hover in the 70s °F (20–27°C) through September before cooling to the 60s (15–20°C) by late October. Crisp air, olive harvests, and fewer lines at major sites make this the sweet spot for many travelers.
Winter (November–February): The city slows into a softer rhythm, with mild highs in the 50s–60s °F (10–16°C) and occasional rain showers. While you won’t find the Christmas-market charm of Northern Europe, you will enjoy near-empty ruins and museums, plus lower hotel rates. It’s the best time for budget travelers and history lovers who don’t mind carrying an umbrella.
Although it’s the busiest, hottest season by far, I’m extremely partial to a Cycladic summer given the benefits of heading to the islands during this popping peak season. I enjoyed a delightful 2 days in Athens at the end of June, with the bustling cobblestone streets full of energy well into the early morning. Given the major tourist sites require you to book a specific time slot anyways, I didn’t encounter any issues with excessive crowding at these common hotspots.
The shoulder seasons of spring and fall may be more cost-effective, but they lack the vibrancy that makes a Greek summer so irresistible. I would argue there’s not a good reason to visit Athens in the winter given the islands will be largely hibernating—and visiting the Cyclades is the main draw in the region anyways!
Is 2 Days in Athens Enough?
When considering what to see in Athens in 2 days, some would argue that’s already too much time spent in the Greek capital. Little love is expressed for Athens in virtual forums, and it’s easy to understand why once you’ve experienced the pinnacle of travel that is summer in the Cyclades.
Nevertheless, a flight through ATH warrants a stopover for at least a day, during which it’s feasible to hit all the top landmarks given how centrally compact the most prominent archaeological sites are. Having split this experience into two days, I appreciated having time to get sufficiently settled and accustomed to a different time zone, rather than running around under the blistering Athenian sun with only one day to spare.
If Greek and Roman history doesn’t pique your interest much, then one packed day is a sufficient amount of time to explore the Athens highlights. If you prefer a more leisurely pace and the opportunity to bake in some lesser known hidden gems, two days is plenty. A third day could even be warranted if you’re seeking time by the sea; I had originally scoped out Lake Vouliagmeni for a relaxing day lounging by the water and ultimately determined I didn’t have enough time to visit during my two-day sprint. It’s located 45 minutes south of the city center, so at least a half day is warranted to properly enjoy a sun lounger, spa services, and the elevated eatery on the lake.
Assuming you have Greek islands up next on your itinerary, 2 days in Athens is enough to sufficiently explore the central districts housing the capital’s most famous ancient landmarks, plus have enough time to indulge in local experiences and fine dining. This was an adequate amount of time for a first visit, and I departed satisfied that I experienced the best of Athens!
Athens for First-Timers: FAQs
Do they speak English in Athens?
While Greek is the official language of Greece, English is incredibly common given the language has been a compulsory school subject for decades. I never encountered a language barrier once during my 2 days in Athens and successfully communicated with every local I encountered in the tourism industry.
What is the currency in Athens?
As a member of the European Union, the euro is the official currency of Greece. Card payments are widely accepted in central Athens, with cash nice to have on hand for family-run, old-school joints and flea market stalls. Tipping isn’t obligatory, but rounding up the bill or leaving 5–10% for good service is a courteous gesture appreciated by locals—especially when indulging in fine dining.
After ordering, the bill will be immediately printed and placed in a small tray on the table for your review. Upon asking to pay, the waiter will review this total and input it into a handheld card reader.
What are the best things to do in Athens?
Renowned for its ancient Greek and Roman heritage, at minimum the question of what to do in Athens Greece has to be answered with a trip to the Acropolis and associated Acropolis Museum to examine the artifacts recovered from this fortified slope. Beyond this iconic site, additional archaeological landmarks requiring paid tickets include the: Ancient Agora (site and museum), Roman Agora, Hadrian’s Library, Olympieion, Kerameikos (site and museum), and Lykeion.
In the evening, Athens demands to be seen from above at sunset as the twinkling cityscape comes alive in the fading light, best observed from Mount Lycabettus—the tallest point in the metropolis. Pairing this view with a plate of authentic Greek cuisine is the perfect way to end the day in Athens.
Where to buy the Athens combo ticket?
As of 2025, the Athens combo ticket granting access to multiple archaeological sites with a single pass has been discontinued. Now, an individual ticket with an associated entry time must be purchased to enter each of the seven landmarks listed above, totaling €105 if you were to visit the whole group.
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