2 Days in Athens, Greece

The Acropolis: This UNESCO World Heritage Site is one of the most iconic landmarks in the world. It was built in the 5th century BC and is home to some of the most important temples in Greek history, including the Parthenon. It can get quite busy and I recommend visiting the Acropolis early in the morning to avoid the crowds.

The Ancient Agora: This was the center of political and commercial life in ancient Athens and one of my favorite places in Athens to walk around and imagine what life would have been like back then.

The Acropolis Museum: Beautiful museum worth exploring for a few hours and learning more about Greek history in general, and the Acropolis and the Parthenon in particular. It’s also fascinating to learn more about the restoration activities associated with ancient artifacts found in the area.

The Temple of Zeus: This was one of the largest temples in ancient Greece and is still an impressive sight today.

The Panathenaic Stadium: This stadium was built in the 5th century BC, and it hosted the first modern Olympic Games in 1896. It's still used for sporting events today and every November this is where the Finish line for the ‘authentic’ marathon is located. Make sure to use one of the audio guides when you visit to truly experience the excitement of the ancient Olympic Games. It’s also a great location to enjoy the view of the Acropolis as the sun sets behind it.

The Pláka & Anafiotika: This is the oldest neighborhood in Athens and a great place to wander around and explore the narrow streets, impressive street art, charming shops and traditional tavernas. Grab a ‘mastiha’ flavored ice cream from one of the ice cream vendors.

Lycabettus hill: Climb Lycabettus hill on a clear day for a view of the whole of Athens and as far as Piraeus. Take a bottle of water with you.

Monastiraki flea market: A great selection of shops, offering artisanal products and local souvenirs.

The National Archaeological Museum: Another great museum with an extensive collection of artifacts from ancient Greece.

Flisvos Marina: Lovely place by the water, if looking to escape the city center. A few bars and restaurants are available, selling food and refreshments.

Day Trips:

Sounion: Located less than 50 miles from Athens, Cape Sounion is known for the ruins of the Temple of Poseidon. The temple with the sunset in the background is a picture-perfect moment and a classic postcard image of the cape.

Delphi: Another classic destination that Greece is known for, Delphi and the famous oracle is another UNESCO site and for a good reason. Located in Central Greece and surrounded by beautiful mountains, a visit to Delphi transports you to another time.

Mycenae: One of the major centers of ancient Greek civilization, Mycenae is known for its noteworthy architectural features such as Lions Gate, the Treasury of Atreus and the walls of Tiryns.

Athens and the port of Piraeus is the gateway to the Greek islands in the Aegean Sea. If you're looking for a beach vacation, you'll find no shortage of options. Each island offers a unique blend of Greek culture, food and natural beauty.

Acropolis Museum Restaurant: Following a visit to the Acropolis museum, the restaurant on the second floor is a great place to have lunch, dinner or even just a Greek coffee and dessert. The panoramic views of the Acropolis and a menu that gets updated seasonally make this a "must-visit" on every trip to Athens.

Kuzina: If you visit one restaurant in Athens, make it this one. During the warm months, Kuzina's terrace treats diners with breathtaking views of the Acropolis and Hephaestus temple. Whether you choose the menu degustation or go à la carte, there is an extensive Greek wine list and cocktail menu to accompany your meal.

Mani Mani: Traditional Greek cuisine with a modern delivery. Inspired by the cuisine of Lakonian Mani. Pastitsio is a personal favorite main course, followed by the orange pie for dessert.

To Kefeneio: In the heart of Plaka, housed in a 400+ year-old building with al fresco dining. Serving unpretentious traditional Greek cuisine. Top tip: Try the handmade Dolmades.

Liondi restaurant: Traditional restaurant serving authentic Greek dishes, including the best Moussaka in Athens.

Dopios restaurant: Local cuisine with a twist. Specializing in mezze, this is a great way of trying several dishes and sharing with friends and family.

Ourse patisserie: Beautiful and refined desserts and cakes. Perfect for a special occasion.

Dope Roasting Company: For the coffee connoisseur. Coffee beans are roasted in-house in small batches. Outdoor space to enjoy a brew al fresco. There is also plenty of space upstairs, popular with remote workers/students.

Ubuntu: Another popular independent coffee shop with good coffee and fresh pastries.

Tailor's House: Located on a pleasant square and featuring both indoor and outdoor space, this is a great place to visit for a few drinks and DJ music.

360 Cocktail bar: Located next to Monastiraki metro station, this bar features a great view of the Acropolis at night and is a popular location to enjoy a cocktail or two.