Athens in one day, let’s say it upfront, is not enough to cover it entirely. After all, it’s one of the oldest capitals in the world. You’ll certainly want more! If your schedule limits you to 24 hours in the city (for example, if you’re in transit to the Greek islands), this itinerary packs history, beauty, and culinary experiences as you visit the streets of the Greek capital.
From the Acropolis Museum to the best views for the sunset over the historic center, passing through the picturesque Monastiraki district, we’ve thought of everything for your day in Athens!
What can you do in Athens in 24 hours? Visit the ancient Acropolis!
If you visit Athens for a day, you must see the imposing Acropolis, which dates back to ancient Greece. The entire city grew up around this monumental hill; you can see it from almost everywhere.
At the heart of the archaeological site, admire the many ruins leading up to the jewel of this ancient crown: the Parthenon. Dedicated to the goddess Athena, patroness of Athens, the Parthenon provides an excellent example of a Doric temple. Builders completed it between 447 and 438 BC. Over the years, people converted it into a church and a mosque and severely plundered it, but conservation efforts continue. The site is a real treat for your eyes during your stay in Athens!
When you finish visiting the wonderful ancient treasures on the UNESCO World Heritage list, descend the hill to discover more at the Acropolis Museum. Bernard Tschumi designed this modern museum, and builders completed its construction in 2007; it remains one of the capital’s flagship activities. The contemporary building boasts over 150,000 square feet of exhibition space and strikes you with its contrast to Athens’ older surrounding buildings.
See Monastiraki Square in the Plaka district
Once out of the museum, walk through the Plaka district located a few minutes’ walk away. It is the oldest district of Athens, below the Acropolis. Have a Greek coffee or a Gyro – the quintessential Greek street food – in one of the many cafes and bars that overflow into the cobblestone streets.
The Plaka district in Athens is very touristy, but it is a must-see. If you are looking for a more authentic culinary experience, have a kebab, a Greek salad and a fresh beer from Thanisis, one of the locals’ favorites.
Then emerge onto Monastiraki Square and its world-renowned flea market. Stroll through the narrow alleys teeming with shops selling everything from clothes to cheap souvenirs, unique antiques, carpets and much more. Exercise your bargaining skills—almost a national pastime in Greece. This will get you the best price for your finds in Monastiraki.
Eating at Diporto, an Athens classic
It’s time for a little break! Head to the central market, also known as Varvakios Agora. It is a cornucopia of spices, fresh local produce, olives, cheeses, meat, fish and more. It’s the ideal place to stock up on authentic Greek oregano to take home with you. Stop to enjoy a strong Greek coffee and a sweet pastry in one of the surrounding taverns.
Our suggestion? Diporto, one of Athens’ best kept secrets. Open since 1887, this basement tavern is a true journey back in time. The cuisine is simple and traditional, with hearty dishes prepared from seasonal products. You may have to order using sign language, as English-speaking staff are rare, but it is the most authentic meal you will taste in Athens.
Accompany your feast with a glass (or two) of Retsina, a white wine infused with pine resin produced in Greece for more than 2000 years.
Walk in Kolonaki
After lunch, head to the Kolonaki area for a leisurely afternoon stroll. The chic district is full of beautiful residences, green parks, high-end boutiques and chic cafes. If you have time, hike or take the cable car to the top of Lykavittos, the highest hill in the city, for breathtaking views of Athens and beyond.
What are the best things to do in Athens, Greece? Admire the sunset from a rooftop!
Once aperitif time arrives, you’ll want to be on a rooftop terrace to admire the sunset. The Hilton Hotel and the Grande Bretagne Hotel are both excellent options. Sit with a cocktail in hand and drink in the breathtaking view of the Acropolis at sunset, a moment you won’t soon forget. Take the time to linger for a moment; Athenians dine late, and the night is still young.
End your one day in Athens on a high note by eating Greek for dinner
Air Transat’s two gastronomic favorites in Athens: For a more discreet traditional meal, go to Tzitzikas & Mermigas where you can taste dishes like chicken fillet served in a “kadaifi” pastry nest and cuttlefish risotto. Dionysos, a gastronomic establishment with a breathtaking view of the Acropolis.
What can you do in Athens at night? Party in Gazi!
After dinner, head to Gazi in the north of the city, the coolest place in Athens! The old gas factory building has been cleaned and transformed into a chic industrial complex housing art galleries, cafes, bars and nightclubs. Athenians and tourists, as well as tourists, flock here to discover the latest art exhibition or dance all night long.
