Visiting Athens in 3 days is a special experience. The city combines a rich history with a lively atmosphere. In this blog you will find a practical day plan for three days in Athens. We give tips, share our experiences and show you step by step how to get the most out of your stay.
How much time do you need to really explore Athens?
Athens is a compact city, but rich in culture and history. Three days are enough to see the main sights see and get a good idea of the Greek capital. You have enough time to explore highlights such as the Acropolis, the ancient Agora and atmospheric neighborhoods like Plaka and Monastiraki.
Athens in 3 days: day 1- discover the Acropolis and Plaka
Start your 3-day city break in Athenswith a visit to the Acropolis, the most famous symbol of Athens. Come early in the morning to avoid the crowds. Your starting point is the Acropolis Museum, where you will learn a lot about the ancient city. Then walk up the hill to the Parthenon, the Erechtheion and the Theater of Dionysos.
After your visit, walk down Dionysiou Areopagitou Street toward the Plaka neighborhood. This district is car-free, atmospheric and perfect for lunch on a terrace. Try a traditional moussaka or souvlaki, for example.
In the afternoon, you can visit the Ancient Agora. Here you will find the Temple of Hephaistos and the Stoa of Attalos. End the day on Filopappou Hill for a magnificent view of the city at sunset.
Athens in 3 days: day 2 - culture, museums and modern atmosphere
Start the day at the National Archaeological Museum. This museum has the largest collection of Greek antiquities in the world. Be sure to set aside two hours for this.
After the museum, take the subway or cab to Syntagma Square. Here you will see the Greek Parliament and the changing of the guard at the Tomb of the Unknown Soldier. An impressive moment not to be missed.
Then walk through the National Gardens to the Panathenaic Stadium, the only stadium in the world made entirely of white marble.
In the afternoon, it is fun to explore the Psiri neighborhood. This neighborhood is known for its street art, creative stores and cozy cafes. You can also dine here in one of the modern taverns with live music.
Day 3 of your Athens city break - Discover the local atmosphere and hidden gems
Your third day starts in the Monastiraki district. Visit the famous flea market and enjoy the view from the rooftop terrace of A for Athens. Then you can visit Hadrian’s Library and the Roman Agora.
Around noon, take the cable car or hike to the top of Lykavittos Hill. This is the highest point in Athens. From here you have a magnificent 360-degree view of the city, the sea and the mountains all around.
End your trip in the Kolonaki district. Here you can quietly store, visit a museum or relax on a terrace. This upscale neighborhood gives a different view of Athens and is ideal for your last evening.
What does Athens cost in 3 days? Prices and budget tips
The cost of a three-day stay in Athens can vary depending on your travel style. Below we give an indication based on an average budget:
1. Air ticket return (low season): €100 – €200 per person
2. Hotel or apartment (2 nights): €120 – €180 for mid-range accommodation
3. Food and drink: €25 – €40 per day per person
4. Public transportation and entrances: €30 – €50 total
5. Total indication per person: €300 – €450 for 3 days
Want to save money? Then opt to stay just outside the center, eat at local taverns and buy a combination ticket for sightseeing.
Our opinion on a 3-day visit to Athens
A three-day city break to Athens is a good choice. You’ll see the main sights and have room to really experience the city. The combination of culture, history and relaxation makes it an ideal destination for a short vacation. Although Athens has a lot to offer, we found three days perfect to get a good idea of the city without feeling rushed.
Sightseeing Athens: our 5 tips for a 3-day city break
Based on our experience, we share 5 practical tips for visiting Athens in three days:
1. Start your day early
Many attractions are quieter and less hot in the morning. So you have more time to enjoy yourself.
2. Buy a combination sightseeing ticket
This gives you access to multiple sites, such as the Acropolis and the Agora. It saves time and money.
3. Wear comfortable shoes
Athens has many hills and cobblestone streets. Good shoes will make your day a lot more pleasant.
4. Use public transportation or walk
The subway is clean and fast, but many places are also easily accessible on foot. That way you can see more of the city.
4. Try local food off the tourist streets
In the smaller streets you often eat cheaper ánd tastier. Ask locals about their favorite places.
Edward and Raziye
Authors Cities To Travel
Combitickets for sightseeing in Athens
If you want to visit Athens in 3 days it is best to buy a combination ticket. This will give you access to multiple attractions and save you money on admission tickets.
Athens in 3 days: Sights and tips
Visiting Athens in 3 days is a special experience. The city combines a rich history with a lively atmosphere. In this blog you will find a practical day plan for three days in Athens. We give tips, share our experiences and show you step by step how to get the most out of your stay.
How much time do you need to really explore Athens?
Athens is a compact city, but rich in culture and history. Three days are enough to see the main sights see and get a good idea of the Greek capital. You have enough time to explore highlights such as the Acropolis, the ancient Agora and atmospheric neighborhoods like Plaka and Monastiraki.
Athens in 3 days: day 1- discover the Acropolis and Plaka
Start your 3-day city break in Athens with a visit to the Acropolis, the most famous symbol of Athens. Come early in the morning to avoid the crowds. Your starting point is the Acropolis Museum, where you will learn a lot about the ancient city. Then walk up the hill to the Parthenon, the Erechtheion and the Theater of Dionysos.
After your visit, walk down Dionysiou Areopagitou Street toward the Plaka neighborhood. This district is car-free, atmospheric and perfect for lunch on a terrace. Try a traditional moussaka or souvlaki, for example.
In the afternoon, you can visit the Ancient Agora. Here you will find the Temple of Hephaistos and the Stoa of Attalos. End the day on Filopappou Hill for a magnificent view of the city at sunset.
Athens in 3 days: day 2 - culture, museums and modern atmosphere
Start the day at the National Archaeological Museum. This museum has the largest collection of Greek antiquities in the world. Be sure to set aside two hours for this.
After the museum, take the subway or cab to Syntagma Square. Here you will see the Greek Parliament and the changing of the guard at the Tomb of the Unknown Soldier. An impressive moment not to be missed.
Then walk through the National Gardens to the Panathenaic Stadium, the only stadium in the world made entirely of white marble.
In the afternoon, it is fun to explore the Psiri neighborhood. This neighborhood is known for its street art, creative stores and cozy cafes. You can also dine here in one of the modern taverns with live music.
Day 3 of your Athens city break - Discover the local atmosphere and hidden gems
Your third day starts in the Monastiraki district. Visit the famous flea market and enjoy the view from the rooftop terrace of A for Athens. Then you can visit Hadrian’s Library and the Roman Agora.
Around noon, take the cable car or hike to the top of Lykavittos Hill. This is the highest point in Athens. From here you have a magnificent 360-degree view of the city, the sea and the mountains all around.
End your trip in the Kolonaki district. Here you can quietly store, visit a museum or relax on a terrace. This upscale neighborhood gives a different view of Athens and is ideal for your last evening.
What does Athens cost in 3 days? Prices and budget tips
The cost of a three-day stay in Athens can vary depending on your travel style. Below we give an indication based on an average budget:
1. Air ticket return (low season): €100 – €200 per person
2. Hotel or apartment (2 nights): €120 – €180 for mid-range accommodation
3. Food and drink: €25 – €40 per day per person
4. Public transportation and entrances: €30 – €50 total
5. Total indication per person: €300 – €450 for 3 days
Want to save money? Then opt to stay just outside the center, eat at local taverns and buy a combination ticket for sightseeing.
Our opinion on a 3-day visit to Athens
A three-day city break to Athens is a good choice. You’ll see the main sights and have room to really experience the city. The combination of culture, history and relaxation makes it an ideal destination for a short vacation. Although Athens has a lot to offer, we found three days perfect to get a good idea of the city without feeling rushed.
Sightseeing Athens: our 5 tips for a 3-day city break
Based on our experience, we share 5 practical tips for visiting Athens in three days:
1. Start your day early
Many attractions are quieter and less hot in the morning. So you have more time to enjoy yourself.
2. Buy a combination sightseeing ticket
This gives you access to multiple sites, such as the Acropolis and the Agora. It saves time and money.
3. Wear comfortable shoes
Athens has many hills and cobblestone streets. Good shoes will make your day a lot more pleasant.
4. Use public transportation or walk
The subway is clean and fast, but many places are also easily accessible on foot. That way you can see more of the city.
4. Try local food off the tourist streets
In the smaller streets you often eat cheaper ánd tastier. Ask locals about their favorite places.
Edward and Raziye
Authors Cities To Travel
Combitickets for sightseeing in Athens
If you want to visit Athens in 3 days it is best to buy a combination ticket. This will give you access to multiple attractions and save you money on admission tickets.
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