Complete Athens Itinerary: How to Spend 3 Days in Athens  (2024)

Complete Athens Itinerary: How to Spend 3 Days in Athens (1)

Wondering how to spend 3 days in Athens? You are in the right place because I have prepared a detailed Athens itinerary for 3 days with a lot of useful travel tips.

Athens is a city that breathes life into the pages of history and pulses with the rhythm of modernity. Situated in the cradle of Greek civilization, Athens witnessed the rise and fall of empires, the birth of democracy, and the intellectual fervor that shaped the course of human thought.

With its ancient ruins and vibrant neighborhoods, Athens is a tapestry of contrasts, where the whispers of philosophers echo through marble columns, and the vibrant energy of contemporary culture fills the bustling streets.

In this article, you will find a complete Athens itinerary for 3 days with other things that you should know before visiting Athens.

*Disclosure: This article contains affiliate links. If you make a purchase after clicking one of these links, I earn a small commission atno extra costto you.

Is Athens worth visiting?

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Athens is a destination that should be high on your travel list. Steeped in history, culture, and architectural wonders, this city offers an experience that will leave you enchanted.

Prepare to be transported back in time as you stand before the majestic Acropolis, home to the iconic Parthenon and other ancient ruins. These marvels showcase the city’s historical significance and its contribution to shaping the modern world as we know it.

The fusion of old and new is seamlessly woven into Athens’ fabric. Wander through neighborhoods like Plaka, where traditional Greek houses coexist with charming shops and cafes.

Art and culture enthusiasts will find themselves in Athens’ vibrant scene. Museums like the Acropolis Museum and the National Archaeological Museum house treasures that span centuries, providing an insightful journey through Greek history and artistic achievements.

And let’s not forget about the culinary delights Athens has to offer. Indulge in mouthwatering Greek cuisine, from savory souvlaki to delectable baklava. The city’s markets offer a chance to sample local flavors and engage with the hospitable locals.

With its Mediterranean climate, Athens allows you to enjoy its outdoor attractions, whether it’s strolling through historic sites or simply relaxing at a sidewalk café, soaking in the warm sun.

But Athens is not just a city confined to its boundaries. It serves as a gateway to unforgettable day trips. Explore ancient sites like Delphi and Mycenae, or gaze upon the stunning sunset at Cape Sounion.

So, if you’re a seeker of history, culture, and architectural wonders, Athens is an undeniable gem that promises a journey through time and culture. Your visit to this remarkable city will undoubtedly leave you with memories to cherish and stories to share.

And this article will help you plan the perfect 3 days in Athens itinerary for first-timers and not only.

How many days in Athens?

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3 days in Athens is the perfect amount of time to enjoy all the essentials of Athens, taste delicious Greek food, discover the most beautiful places, and try authentic local experiences. You can also join one of the many fun tours that Athens has to offer.

When you see the size of the city you might wonder: is 3 days in Athens enough? The answer is yes! Especially if you have a comprehensive Athens itinerary like this one. But you might want to add an extra day for a day trip.

In this itinerary, we will cover how to spend 3 days in Athens and how to maximize your time in this charming city. I will add some optional stops, so this itinerary suits different travelers and interests.

After spending one month in the Greek capital I had the chance to discover some of the best restaurants in Athens and added to this itinerary. I also made sure to include the most interesting museums and hidden gems around the city that will make your 3 days in Athens unforgettable.

RELATED: 17 Best Photo Spots in Athens: Most Beautiful Places + Map

How to move around Athens?

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When visiting Athens for 3 days, choosing the right method to move around is essential to save time and money. I will add more tips within the itinerary so you know what is walkable and where you will need transport, but here are the best ways to move around Athens together with pros and cons.

Walking is one of the best ways to enjoy Athens, especially if you are exploring areas like Plaka and Anafiotika. Nevertheless, walking won’t always be possible, because Athens is a pretty big city and the attractions can be spread.

In this complete Athens itinerary for 3 days I made sure that you will enjoy most of the day walking but occasionally, you might need public transport or a taxi.

The public transport works relatively well. Busses and metro will take you from point A to point B quickly and it is a great option if you are on a budget. However, if there is a protest or an event in a city, it might be complicated to orientate by using the bus.

Taxis and Uber are efficient and still quite cheap compared to other European capitals. You can just grab a taxi in the street or use an app to get one.

Where to stay in Athens for 3 days?

It is important to find the right accommodation for your trip, so I have prepared a list of the best hotels in Athens for every budget. Depending on your travel style, I am sure you will find something suitable, so take a look and decide where to stay in Athens.

If you are looking for something special, don’t miss these fantastic hotels in Athens with Acropolis views.

Luxury: Hotel Grande Bretagne, a Luxury Collection Hotel, Athens

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If you’re seeking an enchanting retreat for your 3 days in Athens and have a penchant for indulgent experiences, search no more.

Hotel Grande Bretagne stands as a pinnacle of opulence and elegance among Athens’ 5-star establishments, promising a comprehensive array of amenities to ensure an unforgettable stay.

Mid-range: Melia Athens

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Melia Athens is the perfect hotel for those travelers who are looking for a comfortable stay in a modern and fancy ambiance without squandering their finances.

Their Spa, wellness center, and pool are a real treat to recharge your batteries during your Athens trip.

Affordable: Arion Athens Hotel

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Who said that beautiful accommodations have to be expensive?

Arion Athens Hotel is a wonderful 3-star hotel in the city center and the best choice if you want to keep your 3 days Athens itinerary on a budget.

Some rooms even offer a fantastic Acropolis view.

What to do in Athens for 3 days?

  • Hunt for the best views over Athens at the Philopappos Hill and Lycabettus;
  • Visit historical places like the Acropolis, Ancient Agora of Athens, Temple of Olympian Zeus;
  • Taste the best of Greek cuisine;
  • Explore the lively district of Plaka and enjoy a drink at Brettos;
  • Go cafe hopping in some of the prettiest places in Athens;
  • Discover Anafiotika;
  • Learn about the history at the iconic National Archaeological Museum;
  • Wander around Monastiraki;
  • Relax at the Athens National Garden, Zappeion, and Panathenaic Stadium;
  • Don’t miss the guard change at the Vallianeio Megaron and visit the Academy of Athens;
  • Escape the tourist spots and hang out with the locals at Piraeus.

3 days in Athens itinerary

Overview of day 1 of your 3 days in Athens

  • Morning: Philopappos Hill, Ancient Agora of Athens;
  • Lunch: LIONDI Traditional Greek Restaurant;
  • Afternoon: Temple of Olympian Zeus, Anafiotika, Acropolis;
  • Dinner: Plaka, Brettos.

Philopappos Hill (Pnyx)

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The best way to start your 3 day Athens itinerary is by catching the sunrise at Philopappos Hill. This hidden gem of Athens offers a serene escape from the bustling city and rewards you with breathtaking views and a sense of connection to ancient history.

The full hike takes about one hour, nevertheless, if you are on a sunrise mission you can take a taxi and head to Epifanous Street. Once you get off the car, follow directions to Pnyx Panorama. From there it is just a small hike (10 minutes) to reach the viewpoint where you can have one of the best views of the Acropolis.

Yet, the allure of Pnyx extends beyond its iconic view of the Acropolis. This viewpoint graciously offers panoramic glimpses of Piraeus and the Aegean Sea and has historical importance.

The hill was once the site of the Pnyx, an ancient gathering place where citizens of Athens would convene to discuss matters of democracy and governance. Standing on this hallowed ground, you can almost hear the echoes of the past.

There is no admission fee to visit Philopappos Hill and it is open 24/7.

Ancient Agora of Athens

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A few minutes away from the Philopappos Hill, lies the Ancient Agora of Athens, which is another must-visit during your 3 days in Athens.

The Agora was the heart of Ancient Athens, and today it’s probably the best preserved archaeological site in Athens. Its fascinating history last 5000 years and it is a fantastic place to breathe the history of Greek civilization.

Despite being less popular than the Acropolis, the Agora will give you the chance to see two magnificent sites. The Temple of Hephaestus is probably one of the best-kept classical temples in Athens and the Stoa of Attalos is a building from the Hellenistic period brought back to its original state. Also, the Holy Church of the Holy Apostles of Solakis is worth a mention.

I really recommend you discover the Ancient Agora when you visit Athens. Apart from the history behind this place, it is one of the best things to do in Athens besides the Acropolis. And as a bonus, you can visit the site without the big crowd any time of the day.

The admission fee is 10 euros. Click here to see opening times and other available tickets.

LIONDI Traditional Greek Restaurant

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Complete Athens Itinerary: How to Spend 3 Days in Athens (11)

After a morning of exploration and epic views, it’s time to reward yourself with a delicious Greek meal.

An Athens vacation means discovering Greek culture through its delicious food and drinks and Liondi restaurant is a great place to start exploring Greek cuisine.

The restaurant is located a few steps away from the Acropolis, which initially made me doubtful considering that tourist areas are filled with tourist traps. But as soon as I arrived I immediately changed my mind!

Starting from the warm welcome, Liondi was a fantastic experience. The prices might be slightly higher than other similar restaurants in Athens, but let me say that it’s worth every cent.

I recommend especially the Moussaka and Saganaki. But if you are a couple there are fantastic options for 2 or 4 people where you can have a full degustation of Greek specialties.

RELATED: 18 Authentic Experiences in Athens to Discover The Best of Greek Capital

Temple of Olympian Zeus and Hadrian’s Arch

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After a delicious Greek meal take a moment to appreciate two famous spots and enrich your Athens itinerary for 3 days.

Enter the peaceful embrace of the Temple of Olympian Zeus, a remarkable archaeological park nestled within the beating heart of contemporary Athens.

It stands as iconic evidence of the ancient world’s architectural prowess. Its colossal columns, once dedicated to the king of the gods, Zeus, evoke a sense of awe as they reach toward the heavens.

Just beyond the threshold of the Temple of Olympian Zeus, a historic gem awaits your discovery: Hadrian’s Arch. This arch was carefully crafted to commemorate the triumphant entry of the Roman emperor Hadrian into the city.

While the Hadrian’s Arch doesn’t require a ticket, the Temple of Olympian Zeus has an admission fee of 8 euro in summer and 4 euro in winter. The opening times vary between the seasons so make sure you check in before visiting.

Anafiotika

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Complete Athens Itinerary: How to Spend 3 Days in Athens (14)

From the temple, find your way to Anafiotika. This tranquil ancient district of Athens is often missed by tourists, but it has to be included in any Athens itinerary for first-timers.

As you venture into Anafiotika beneath the grandeur of the Acropolis, you’ll be treated to breathtaking vistas, yet it’s the genuine atmosphere that truly sets it apart. The design of the whitewashed dwellings will transport you to the enchanting lanes of a Greek island postcard.

The peaceful ambiance is enriched by the company of cats, adding a distinct personality to the streets and embodying the cozy and delightful spirit of Greek living.

It’s essential to approach this hidden gem in Athens with a sense of respect, as Anafiotika is not just a tourist attraction, but a living residential area. As you explore, remember that you are stepping into the lives of the people who call this place home.

Acropolis

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Complete Athens Itinerary: How to Spend 3 Days in Athens (16)

After visiting Anafiotika, it is time to finally head to the famous Acropolis.

No doubt that this is the most popular attraction in Athens. For a good reason! The history and the beauty of the place are simply breathtaking, but Acropolis can be challenging when it comes to photography and crowds. Lucky for you, I am here to make this experience a bit easier for you.

Most of the guides suggest visiting Acropolis at the opening time and that is what I did, but the place was packed even at the end of the season. So I decided to give it another try and visit it 2 hours before closing time on a weekday. And that is when you can see it relatively empty.

This will give you the chance not only to take some epic photos with a golden hour but also to appreciate the beauty of the sight. I was one of the last to leave the place, so the whole experience was pure magic.

If you are particularly interested in history, come here 3 hours before closing time. Also, it says that the last entrance is 30 minutes before closing time, but you won’t be able to see anything in those 30 minutes.

The admission fee to visit the Acropolis is 22 euros and it includes all the sights. The best for the photos are Parthenon, Erechtheion, and Odeon of Herodes Atticus. I highly recommend buying the Acropolis Skip-the-Line Entry Ticket to save some precious time. Also, the price difference is very small and totally worth it.

Plaka & Brettos

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After visiting the iconic Acropolis it’s time to recharge your batteries with a satisfying dinner. My recommendation is to find a place in Plaka and enjoy the city lighten up at night.

In Plaka, there are hundreds of restaurants, but my recommendation is to stop at Taverna Saita for a typical Greek dinner in an informal ambiance. Another nearby place to try delicious Greek food is Pantheon.

After dinner head to Brettos, one of the most popular bars in Athens. The place is not only popular for its signature drinks but also for its colorful bar which became one of the most photographed places in Athens.

This will be the perfect place to celebrate your Athens vacation trying some local spirits such as Tsipouro (or Raki), Ouzo, or Rakomelo. Brettos also offers wine tasting and other experiences click here for more.

RELATED: 12 Best Tours in Athens That You Don’t Want to Miss

Overview of day 2 of your 3 days in Athens

  • Morning: Cafes of Athens, Monastiraki and Holy Metropolitan Church of the Annunciation to the Virgin Mary, National Archaeological Museum;
  • Lunch: Souvlaki Leivadia, Krinos (est.1923);
  • Afternoon: Vallianeio Megaron, Academy of Athens, Holy Catholic Cathedral, Lycabettus;
  • Dinner: A For Athens or Attic Urban Rooftop.

Cafes of Athens

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Complete Athens Itinerary: How to Spend 3 Days in Athens (19)

Exploring cafes in Athens is an essential part of your visit, and certain establishments elevate the experience to new heights, offering delightful moments and excellent photo opportunities. Depending on your routine you might start the second day of your 3 days Athens itinerary with a sweet treat.

My personal recommendations are the Little Kook, which became Insta-famous due to its stunning decorations, and Ellyz Cafe.

Little Kook is probably the most photographed and famous cafe in Athens. This themed cafe is more than just a coffee shop. It will take you directly into a fairytale world. As soon as you approach the place you will see decorations all over the street creating an outstanding atmosphere all around.

Ellyz is the pink fairytale heaven covered in flowers and cute decorations. Beyond its charming exterior, the café boasts a selection of delectable cakes that are as delightful as they are visually appealing.

It is certainly not a cheap place in Athens, but I believe a lot of you would love this romantic cafe. And this one was my personal favorite as well.

Opening times are from 9 am to 1 am, so plan accordingly.

Monastiraki and Holy Metropolitan Church of the Annunciation to the Virgin Mary

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Complete Athens Itinerary: How to Spend 3 Days in Athens (21)

3 perfect days in Athens must include a walk through Monastiraki – a fascinating district of Athens that will take you through centuries of history. And it hosts some of the most beautiful places in Athens.

In the main square, you will find the iconic Tzistarakis Mosque which dates back to the Ottoman times, and the Byzantine Church of the Pantanassa. This Church gives the name to the square as it was nicknamed “Great Monastery” and later as Monastiraki “little monastery”.

The renowned Hadrian’s Library takes center stage. Dating back to the year 132 AD, it echoes the passage of time, inviting you to retrace the footsteps of those who once sought knowledge within its halls.

And not far away, the Holy Metropolitan Church of the Annunciation to the Virgin Mary stands with pride in Mitropoleos Square. This 19th-century cathedral church boasts an architectural blend of monumental Greco-Byzantine and neoclassical influences.

Monastiraki is also the perfect place where to make shopping. As you cross its vibrant streets, you’ll encounter a lively market where a great number of goods await you. Local crafts, souvenirs, and presents lay waiting to be discovered, each a piece of the city’s essence ready to be taken home.

RELATED: 15 Amazing Hotels in Athens with an Acropolis View From Your Balcony: Where to Stay in Athens?

National Archaeological Museum

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Complete Athens Itinerary: How to Spend 3 Days in Athens (23)

In Monastiraki Square, you will find the bus that takes you to the National Archaeological Museum. As an alternative there is a taxi and walking will take you around 30 minutes.

The collection of the National Archaeological Museum includes a wide range of artifacts from different periods of Greek history, from prehistoric times to the late antiquity period.

The Mask of Agamemnon is one of the most iconic pieces on display, believed by some to be associated with the legendary king of Mycenae. The bronze statues of Zeus or Poseidon, along with sculptures of gods and mythological figures like Aphrodite, Pan, and Eros, show the Greeks’ artistic mastery and their devotion to their pantheon of deities.

The prehistoric collection gives visitors a glimpse into the lives of early Greek civilizations, and the extensive collection of vases from different regions of the country showcases the evolution of pottery and art techniques over time.

The National Archaeological Museum is not only a place to admire art and artifacts but also a window into the historical, cultural, and mythological aspects of ancient Greece.

The recommended visiting time of 1 to 4 hours allows visitors to explore the museum at their own pace, appreciating the incredible history, and beauty that it holds. Click here to see the opening times and entry fees.

Souvlaki Leivadia

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Complete Athens Itinerary: How to Spend 3 Days in Athens (25)

After this all this art you must be hungry! Not far away from the National Archaeological Museum, you will find a real icon of Athens’s gastronomy and probably the best place to try souvlaki.

Souvlaki is a quintessential Greek street food, typically made with grilled pieces of meat served on a skewer or in a pita wrap. The combination of tender meat, flavorful marinades, and fresh accompaniments like tomatoes, onions, and tzatziki sauce makes souvlaki a beloved dish.

Souvlaki Leivadia has been feeding Athenians for decades and now is becoming popular among tourists too. For a good reason! This place has simply the best souvlaki I have tried in Athens.

It is a family business and everyone will welcome you with a big smile. Greek hospitality at its best.

When is the bill time, Souvlaki Leivadia will positively surprise you with its very affordable prices. This is one of the best things to do in Athens in 3 days, so don’t leave the city without trying souvlaki.

Krinos (est.1923) or LUKUMAΔΕΣ

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Complete Athens Itinerary: How to Spend 3 Days in Athens (27)

Yes, I know you just had lunch, but who doesn’t have a little space for a delicious sweet? Krinos is the perfect place to make your 3 day Athens itinerary sweeter.

Krinos stands as a charming confectionery located within a beautiful neo-classical building, once the inaugural apothecary of Athens. It offers an array of delectable creations, both sugary and savory. Yet, it’s undeniable that their renowned loukoumades draw crowds.

Loukoumades, hailed as Greek-style doughnuts, are the epitome of Krinos’ culinary prowess. Their exclusive loukoumades recipe has graced palates for over nine decades—an astonishing feat in itself. And a visit to Athens would be incomplete without indulging in a loukoumades interlude.

For those intrigued by a modern take on this timeless delight, LUKUMAΔΕΣ presents an odyssey of flavors. Here, you’re invited to create your own unique loukoumades experience, experimenting with a variety of flavors that match your individual taste.

RELATED: 100+ Best Greece Quotes and Greece Instagram Captions + Beautiful Sharable Photos

Academy of Athens, Vallianeio Megaron, and Holy Catholic Cathedral

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Complete Athens Itinerary: How to Spend 3 Days in Athens (29)

Panepistimiou is a popular street where you can find some relevant buildings in the city. Notable landmarks such as the Academy of Athens, Vallianeio Megaron, and the Holy Catholic Cathedral grace this prominent avenue.

The Academy of Athens was established in 1926 as an Academy of Sciences, Humanities, and Fine Arts. The exteriors are neoclassical style and shaped in marble and rich in details. Here you will see the statues of philosophers Plato and Socrates and Gods like Athina and Apollo.

If this wasn’t enough to impress you, the interiors are equally stunning. The Neoclassical style dominates the design of the palace and you can find rooms with marvelous columns and paintings.

Vallianeio Megaron is technically part of the Academy of Athens, but it is a separate building, so deserves a special mention as well. You can easily combine these 2 spots as they are 5 minutes walk away from each other.

Unfortunately, I didn’t have the chance to visit The Ioannis Sykoutris Library but don’t make my mistake and plan accordingly. It looks absolutely stunning inside and shouldn’t be missed.

A few meters away you will also find the Holy Catholic Cathedral. This is one of the city’s most significant religious buildings. I consider this a little hidden gem, but if you want to plan 3 perfect days in Athens you should also explore the places that are not so popular among tourists.

Lycabettus

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After all these cultural experiences, it’s time to discover an iconic location and one of the best things to do in Athens in 3 days. Visiting Lycabettus is a must in every Athens itinerary.

Lycabettus is the tallest peak in Athens 227 meters above sea level and it can be easily recognized by its iconic shape. The best spot is Lycabettus Hill Viewing Area and you will be speechless as you see the sun setting down over the best panoramic views in Athens.

You can either climb up to Lycabettus, take the cable car, or ask the taxi driver to bring you to Prasini Tenta Cafe. The cable car will cost you 10 euros per round trip and you can see the timetable here.

A For Athens or Attic Urban Rooftop

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After you have admired Athens from Lycabettus Hill, take a taxi or a bus to enjoy a drink or two at one of the iconic bars of Athens with the best views of the Acropolis.

A For Athens is probably the most famous and most loved rooftop bar in Athens because you get a fantastic view of the Acropolis and Monastiraki Square. Considering the popularity, I highly recommend booking a table before.

Extra tip! A lot of visitors don’t know that you can visit A For Athens before opening time and try their continental breakfast for 15 euros. Breakfast is served from 7.30 am until 11 am. This way you can easily get the table with the best view and enjoy the peaceful atmosphere with stunning views.

Alternatively, Attic Urban Rooftop is also a popular rooftop in Athens where you can have drinks and snacks while enjoying an iconic Acropolis view.

Overview of day 3 of your 3 days in Athens

  • Morning: Plateia Syntagmatos, Athens National Garden, Zappeion, Panathenaic Stadium;
  • Lunch: Elvis;
  • Afternoon: Piraeus;
  • Dinner: The rocks of Peiraiki.

Plateia Syntagmatos

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Plateia Syntagmatos is the central square in the city and one of the liveliest places in all of Greece.Here locals and tourists gather, especially at sunset time, and appreciate the beautiful buildings surrounding the square.

The most important building is the Parliament House standing in the middle of the square. And you can also admire the Monument to the Unknown Soldier protected by the Evzones.

If you happen to be here on a Sunday morning, at 11 am, you can watch the official ceremony of the changing of the guards with the official dresses. If you want to assist this event, I recommend you get there at least 30 minutes earlier.

On the other days, the change of guards takes place every hour.

RELATED: 30 Best Photo Spots in Mykonos That You Can’t Miss

Athens National Garden

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The Athens National Garden, located just behind the parliament building, is a refreshing oasis in the heart of the city. This green space covers 16 hectares and offers a pleasant retreat for both locals and tourists to escape the city’s hustle and bustle.

The garden is a popular spot for leisurely strolls, especially during the warmer months when it offers the shade of trees. One of its standout features is the diverse array of flora and fauna that you can encounter as you explore the garden.

Inside the Athens National Garden, you’ll find a charming combination of elements. The narrow labyrinth-like paths, wooden benches, and small lakes create a picturesque setting that invites relaxation and contemplation

One of the garden’s highlights is the small zoo that houses various animals like wild goats, peaco*cks, chickens, and others. A particularly charming spot within the garden is the duck pond. Visitors often bring bread to feed the ducks, creating a relaxed and peaceful scene.

Zappeion

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The Zappeion is one of the most iconic buildings in Athens. It is located in the central area and it is surrounded by beautiful gardens, which is a perfect green space in the busy center of the Greek Capital. It is the best place to refresh and recharge your batteries during your busy Athens itinerary.

You can visit Zappeion Hall, however, it is open from Monday to Friday, so plan your time accordingly. Inside you will see a beautiful circular hall composed of neoclassical columns and some impressive details.

RELATED: Complete Itinerary: How to Spend One Day in Mykonos From a Cruise Ship

Panathenaic Stadium

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Panathenaic Stadium is a unique sight and another must whether you have three or two days in Athens. It lies behind the National Gardens, so it can be easily combined with Zappeion and the garden.

The stadium’s full name is the Panathenaic Stadium or Kallimarmaro, which translates to “beautiful marble” in Greek. It’s a unique architectural wonder due to its construction entirely in marble, setting it apart from other stadiums around the world.

The Panathenaic Stadium dates back to 330 BC and was originally constructed for the Panathenaic Games, a major athletic and cultural festival held in ancient Athens. Over time, the stadium underwent various reconstructions and renovations.

Notably, it was rebuilt in marble by the Athenian Roman senator Herodes Atticus, giving it the stunning marble appearance we see today. By 144 AD, the stadium had an impressive seating capacity of around 50,000 spectators.

One of the most significant moments in the stadium’s history was its role as the venue for the first modern Olympic Games in 1896. This event marked the revival of the Olympic Games after centuries of dormancy.

The stadium also played a vital role in the Athens 2004 Summer Olympics, where it was used for archery competitions and was the endpoint of the marathon.

The ticket costs 5 euro and it is open daily from 8 am to 7 pm.

Elvis

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Just a short stroll away from the Panathenaic Stadium, there’s a hidden gem named Elvis – an iconic little street food haven that’s worth every step. When we first visited, we weren’t expecting much; it was just a quick break during our day. Yet, we loved it so much that we had to return for more.

While the owner contributes an element of playful excitement to the ambiance, it’s the mouthwatering gyros and souvlaki that truly steal the show. In this spot, you’ll experience the very essence of Greek cuisine: a beautiful blend of simplicity and top-notch ingredients that elevate every bite.

But wait, there’s an extra delight in store for those lucky enough to be around on a Friday. The street transforms into a vibrant market, welcoming local farmers with their fresh produce. It’s a wonderful addition to an already exceptional experience.

Piraeus

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The Piraeus is a neighborhood located on the sea and should be a must for your 72 hours in Athens.

The whole area feels much more relaxed compared to central Athens, and you can get there quickly by using the metro. Despite being mostly a residential area, there are several places of interest to discover in this district.

You don’t want to miss the Church of Agios Nikolaos and the Archaeological Museum of Piraeus. Mikrolimano and Freatida are a couple of beaches where you can unplug from the chaos of the city and relax. For a sunset spot, head to Kastella, where you can enjoy a panoramic view of the area.

Piraeus is a great way to explore Athens beyond the main attractions and you will love the whole experience.

RELATED: 13 Best Mykonos Hotels With a Private Pool

The rocks of Peiraiki

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Piraeus is a vibrant district teeming with waterfront bars and restaurants, offering the perfect settings for a delightful dinner or a leisurely drink. Yet, my standout experience was undeniably at the Rocks Of Peiraiki.

This tavern embodies the essence of Greek cuisine and friendly hospitality. Its charming Cycladic-style decoration takes you to the feeling of being in Mykonos or Santorini, giving you a complete experience.

Considering both the culinary excellence and the picturesque locale, it’s no exaggeration to label it as one of Athens’ finest dining establishments. The combination of exceptional food and the stunning setting truly sets Rocks Of Peiraiki apart.

Further reading for 3 days in Athens

Complete Athens Itinerary: How to Spend 3 Days in Athens (39)

17 Best Photo Spots in Athens: Most Beautiful Places + Map

Complete Athens Itinerary: How to Spend 3 Days in Athens (40)

15 Amazing Hotels in Athens with an Acropolis View From Your Balcony: Where to Stay in Athens?

Complete Athens Itinerary: How to Spend 3 Days in Athens (41)

12 Best Tours in Athens That You Don’t Want to Miss

Or read more about: Athens | Mykonos | Greece

Other useful tips for visiting Greece

🏠 Need a place to stay? Browse Booking or Agoda
💃 How about fun experiences? GetYourGuide and Viator have it all
🚗 Considering renting a car in Greece? Use Rentalcars
🔒 Don’t forget about travel insurance from HeyMondo

In conclusion…

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If you were wondering what to do in Athens for 3 days, I am sure that now you are fully prepared for your trip and can’t wait to discover this unique Greek city.

I would love to hear your thoughts, so if you have any feedback or additional tips, leave a comment below. Also, check out my Instagram for regular travel videos and travel inspiration. Or explore other destinations on this travel blog.

Pin it for later and save the best 3-day Athens itinerary!

Complete Athens Itinerary: How to Spend 3 Days in Athens (43)
Complete Athens Itinerary: How to Spend 3 Days in Athens (44)

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Complete Athens Itinerary: How to Spend 3 Days in Athens  (2024)
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