It's with a head full of mythological stories that you set foot in Athens. From the Acropolis to the Agora, by way of the Olympiion, it's a real plunge into history that awaits you through the activities to do in Athens in 3 days! Follow the Petit Futé itinerary step by step, to fully discover Athens during your extended weekend or getaway in the Greek capital.
Day 1: What to do in Athens in 3 days? Acropolis, Monastiraki and Agora
Start your 3 days in Athens with one of the city's must-sees: the Acropolis, one of the most beautiful archaeological sites in Ancient Greece.
Morning: Athens Acropolis and the Acropolis Museum
L'Acropolis overlooks the city in all its majesty, offering a host of historic sights accessible via the Propylaea, the site's majestic gates. Among the exceptional monuments of this UNESCO World Heritage site is the famous Parthenon, dedicated to Athena and known for its symbolic role in democracy. You can also visit the Temple of Nikè, celebrating the Greek victory over the Persians.
To book: Discover the Athens Acropolis with a pre-booked ticket sent straight to your phone and two audioguide options by booking right here.
Good to know: the famous Nike brand takes its name from the goddess Nikè, whose name means Victory. What a symbol!
The archaeological complex also includes the Erechtheion, a fascinating sanctuary combining myth and history. Finally, at the foot of the Acropolis, you'll find the Theater of Dionysus, cradle of Greek tragedy, and the Odeion of Herod Atticus, still used for shows. Allow a few hours to visit the entire site.
The morning ends nearby at the Acropolis Museum, with its rich collection of sculptures and artefacts, including those from the Parthenon. The icing on the cake: a spectacular view of the Acropolis!
Tip: If you want to save money and avoid the queues at the Acropolis, buy a combined ticket here, which gives you direct access to the Acropolis and the Parthenon, as well as historic sites such as the ancient Agora, the Keramikos and the Olympiion.
Afternoon: Monastiraki district and Athens Agora
Athens guided tours to book explore Athens by booking this audio tour by bus bus tour. You hop on and off whenever you like on an itinerary that takes you to the city's main attractions and monuments. You can also opt for this electric bike tour of Athens.
The afternoon begins peacefully in Monastiráki Square, the vibrant heart of the eponymous district. Your steps will take you past the Panagia Pantánassa church, the remains of a former convent, and the Tzistarakis mosque, now... a museum! Unusual and instructive: a visit like no other.
It's also in this district that you can stroll through the famous flea market, if you visit on a Sunday. Lively and eclectic, it promises 1001 antiques and other original souvenirs.
A short distance away, you'll find Hadrian's Library, a superb, albeit partially destroyed, reminder of Roman times. You'll then make your way up to the ancient Agora, passing the Stoa of Attalus, a Hellenistic portico with numerous aligned columns, which today houses the Agora Museum. On display: ceramics, jewelry and coins, witnesses to Athenian daily life of yesteryear.
Here you are at last: theAncient Agorathe ancient nerve center of Athens! If Athens is one of the world's most beautiful capitals to visit, it's for the beauty of its sites. At a crossroads, it was in turn a political site, a sacred space and a place of communal life. The wonderfully preserved Temple of Hephaestus dominates this exceptional site.
To book: Enjoy a hassle-free visit to the ancient Agora, one of Athens' most popular attractions , by booking this pre-booked ticket combined with an audio tour on your smartphone.
Time to spare? If time permits, a climb up the Pnyx hill will complete this immersion in Greek history, while offering you a magnificent view of the city.
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Day 2: What can you do in Athens in 3 days? Panathenaic Stadium, Olympiion and Pláka
Between history, colorful neighborhoods and nature, this second day promises to be rich in discoveries.
Morning: Panathenaic Stadium and National Garden
Your second morning in Athens begins at the Panathenaic Stadiuma perfectly preserved white marble masterpiece. Witness to the first modern Olympic Games in 1896, it's a place steeped in history, which has preserved its bleachers and beautiful sports track. The tour, accompanied by an audioguide, is fairly short but totally captivating!
The original activity to book enjoya fun outdoor experience in Athens by booking this Olympic training session at the Panathenaic Stadium with a certified sports trainer.
Just a few minutes' walk away, head for the National Garden of Athens, a green oasis in the heart of the city. Established in 1839, it is home to over 500 species of exotic plants brought here from the four corners of the globe. Suffice to say, it's a resolutely romantic place, ideal for a declaration of love or a marriage proposal. As you stroll around, you'll discover a pond populated by aquatic birds, a botanical garden, ancient ruins and even a small zoo with goats and chickens. Children and parents alike love it. A must for any family trip!
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Afternoon: Olympiion, Syntagma Square and Pláka district
The afternoon begins at the Temple of Olympian Zeus, or Olympiion. Although only 15 Corinthian columns remain, this is still an impressive temple. Nearby, Hadrian's Gate, an 18-metre-high marble arch, invites the imagination to travel back in time, giving a glimpse of buildings of great beauty.
Your afternoon continues on to Syntagma Square, the historic heart of Athens, home to the Parliament.
Good to know: in front of Parliament and the Tomb of the Unknown Soldier, you can watch the hourly changing of the Evzones guards. The most impressive, however, is the 10 a.m. changeover on Sunday mornings.
Finally, spend the afternoon in the Pláka district, a real invitation to stroll. You'll find your footsteps treading labyrinthine cobbled streets lined with neoclassical houses. Between souvenir stores and Greek tavernas, you'll immerse yourself in the bohemian atmosphere of an authentic Athens neighborhood. You'll love it!
To book: Discover the historic center of Athens on this guided e-bike tour. You'll pass through the charming neighborhoods of Thission and Plaka.
Day 3: What to do in Athens in 3 days? Archaeological Museum, Exarcheia and Mount Lycabette
The final stretch of your 3 days in Athens begins with a magnificent museum, a quirky neighborhood and an incredible vantage point from which to bid farewell to the city.
Morning: Archaeological Museum and Exarcheia district
The morning begins at the Athens Archaeological Museumhome to one of the richest collections on ancient Greece. From prehistoric artifacts to Egyptian works of art, discover a multitude of priceless treasures: gold funerary masks, ivory figurines, marble sculptures and ancient vases.
To book : Discover the National Archaeological Museum at your own pace by booking your ticket here your entrance ticket, which will be sent to you by e-mail, including an audio-guided tour on smartphone.
Your last morning in Athens continues in the Exarcheia district, known as the cradle of social protest and political activism. This authentic area has preserved its bohemian soul, far removed from the usual tourist circuits. Greece's tumultuous history still resonates in its streets, marked by vibrant murals. An interesting visit off the beaten track!
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Afternoon: the view from Mount Lycabetta
Get some height during your last hours on Greek soil, by climbing the lycabette Hill278 metres high. The result: spectacular views of Athens! From the summit, the Acropolis, the Aegean Sea and the city's rooftops unfold in an unforgettable panoramic view, for 100% Instagrammable photos. It's also up here that you'll find the charming Orthodox chapel of St. George, all in white, overlooking this unique landscape.
There are several options for reaching the summit. If you're a keen walker, you can make the ascent on foot, winding through a pine forest. The funicular is a more unusual and child-friendly alternative.
Where to stay in Athens for 3 days? Our selection of the best hotels
Athens is an ideal destination in November or early spring, thanks to its mild temperatures. In fact, Athens is one of the sunniest cities in Europe: make the most of it! Here are some of the best places to stay.
- The cheapest
Relax on a budget at the Marble House, a beautiful establishment as simple as it is cosy. Comfortable and warmly decorated, it offers an inexpensive base for visiting Athens. Click here to book your room.
- The best value for money
Located near Monasteraki,Hotel Attalos offers air-conditioned rooms, a buffet breakfast and a beautiful view of the Acropolis. You'll feel right at home, at an affordable price. Book your room your room.
- The best view
Every morning when you wake up, every evening when you return from your visits, you'll enjoyan exceptional view of the Acropolis and Lycabetes Hill. At the Athens Was, the decor is meticulous, chic and refined. Click here to book this hotel.
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Athens, the motley capital of Greece, is a must-see for an extended weekend or longer stay. Its main site, the Acropolis, is one of the wonders of antiquity that can still be visited today. Ready for a dream weekend? Just a few hours from France, Athens is a magical destination to visit at least once in your life!
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