Visiting Athens but only have one day to explore?
Don’t worry… I’ve got you covered!
Athens is popular as a stopover before visiting the famous Greek islands. To be honest, I never really thought too much about visiting Athens until recently, when the group I was travelling with decided they wanted to see it.
And I am so glad I went! We spent four days in Athens, which gave me a great overview of the city.
But I get it, time isn’t always on your side.
With this well-planned itinerary, you can see all the best parts of Athens in just 24 hours! From historical landmarks to must-visit neighbourhoods and delicious Greek food, you can experience it all in one day.
Here’s how to make the most of your day in Athens, based on my last trip!
⏰ Short on time?
👉 Acropolis View Hotel
– 101 Adrianou Apartments
– Electra Metropolis Athens
– Herodion Hotel
– AthensWas Hotel
– The Zillers Boutique Hotel
👉 Things to Do in Athens
– Visit the Acropolis & Parthenon
– Wander through the Plaka
– Catch the sunset from Lycabettus Hill
– Explore the Ancient Agora
– Eat your way through Monastiraki
Disclaimer: Please note that some of the links in this article may be affiliate links. This means that, at no extra cost to you, I may earn a small commission if you click on or make a purchase through these links.
Where to Stay in Athens
Choosing the right accommodation can make a big difference, especially if you’re short on time. Here are my top recommendations based on location, convenience, and budget:
- Plaka: Perfect for first-time visitors, Plaka’s charming streets are filled with tavernas, shops, and historic architecture. It’s also within walking distance of the Acropolis and other major attractions. I recommend staying at 101 Adrianou Apartments (it even has views of the Acropolis!). Check availability and book now to get the best rates!
- Monastiraki: Known for its vibrant nightlife and street markets, this area is lively and close to public transport links. Stay in Monastiraki for easy access to Athens’ bustling nightlife.
- Syntagma Square: A central hub with easy access to the metro and airport bus. It’s great if you’re looking for a more modern, cosmopolitan vibe. Check out accommodation options in Syntagma Square for a convenient and stylish stay!
Where I stayed in Athens
👉 Watch our hotel review staying at 101 Adrianou Apartments.
- Budget: Pella Inn Hostel – Ideal for budget travellers, with rooftop views of the Acropolis. Book early to secure your spot at this popular budget-friendly hostel!
- Mid-Range: Ava Hotel & Suites – Located in Plaka, offering spacious rooms and excellent service. I stayed here and loved it! Book your stay now for a comfortable experience in the heart of Athens.
- Luxury: Electra Metropolis Athens – Featuring a rooftop pool with stunning views of the Acropolis and high-end amenities. Treat yourself to luxury and book a room with incredible views here!
Tip: Book your accommodation close to a metro station or within walking distance of the Acropolis to save travel time. Compare prices and find the best location for your stay in Athens.
How to Spend One Day in Athens
(This is a jam-packed itinerary, so be prepared!)
Kick off your day at Athens’ most iconic landmark, the Acropolis. I recommend getting there early to beat the crowds and the heat. Wander through ancient ruins and marvel at the Parthenon, the Temple of Athena Nike, and the Erechtheion with its famous Caryatids.
Tip: Grab your tickets online to skip the line. I found this really helpful, especially during peak season. You don’t want to waste time waiting!
Guided tours are also a great way to learn about the history behind these impressive structures.
Check out this guided tour option for a deeper dive into ancient Athens.
Just a short walk away, the Acropolis Museum offers a deeper dive into the history and artifacts of the Acropolis. It’s modern, air-conditioned, and provides fantastic views of the Parthenon from its terrace café.
I recommend visiting right after the Acropolis to get the full historical context! Skip the line and get your tickets in advance.
Walk down from the Acropolis to the Ancient Agora, where philosophers like Socrates once taught. Explore the Temple of Hephaestus, one of the best-preserved ancient temples, and imagine life in ancient Athens.
You’ve probably worked up an appetite because you would have walked up and down a lot of hills. Head to Plaka, a charming neighbourhood filled with narrow streets, colourful buildings, and plenty of traditional Greek tavernas.
I recommend trying souvlaki or moussaka. Both are delicious and quintessentially Greek. Check out this food tour if you want to taste the best local dishes in Plaka!
After lunch, make your way to the Temple of Olympian Zeus. This ancient temple was once the largest in Greece, dedicated to the king of the gods. Only a few massive columns remain, but they give you an idea of its former grandeur.
Book your entry ticket in advance to save time!
Right next to the Temple of Olympian Zeus is the National Garden, a peaceful oasis in the middle of the bustling city. It’s a lovely place to rest your feet, grab a cold drink, and enjoy some shade before continuing your exploration.
Before you head back to your hotel to freshen up for dinner, go to Syntagma Square to catch the changing of the guard at the Hellenic Parliament. It’s a fascinating ceremony that happens every hour.
Book a guided city tour that includes this unique cultural experience!
End your day in Monastiraki, known for its vibrant atmosphere, street vendors, and rooftop restaurants with stunning views of the Acropolis lit up at night.
What to Pack and How to Dress
- Comfortable Walking Shoes: Athens’ historical sites have uneven, rocky terrain. Choose sturdy shoes with good grip. I recommend these walking shoes for all-day comfort!
- Lightweight Clothing: Summers are hot, so breathable, light fabrics are recommended. In cooler months, layers are key.
- Sun Protection: Sunglasses, a hat, and sunscreen are a must, especially at the Acropolis, where shade is scarce. Check out my favourite sunscreen for travel that fits perfectly in your day bag!
- Evening Outfit: If you plan to visit rooftop bars or upscale restaurants, pack a slightly dressier outfit.
Frequently Asked Questions
One day isn’t enough to see everything, but with a well-planned itinerary, you can cover the main highlights and get a taste of Athens’ history, culture, and food.
Wear comfortable shoes as you’ll be walking a lot, especially on uneven ancient ruins. Light clothing, a hat, and sunscreen are essential in the warmer months.
Yes, buying tickets online helps you skip the lines and save time. I found this skip-the-line ticket super convenient! I would definitely get it again to avoid the long queues.
Plaka and Monastiraki are great neighbourhoods for traditional Greek food. Look for family-owned tavernas for the most authentic experience. Join this food tour to taste the best Greek dishes in Athens!
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