1-Day Athens Adventure: Offbeat Food, Wine & Explorations for Couples

Athens, Greece

1 days

Monastiraki Square and Acropolis
Ancient theater in Acropolis
Architecture closeup
Street cafe on the stairs in Plaka
Mikrolimano marina

About Athens, Greece

Experience the rich history and vibrant culture of Athens, Greece. As the cradle of Western civilization, Athens boasts iconic landmarks like the Acropolis, Parthenon, and the ancient Agora, offering a glimpse into its glorious past. Wander through the charming Plaka district with its quaint shops and traditional tavernas. Visit the world-class National Archaeological Museum and the modern Acropolis Museum. Enjoy the Mediterranean climate, savor delicious Greek cuisine, and immerse yourself in the city's lively nightlife. Athens also serves as a gateway to the beautiful Greek islands. Whether you're a history buff, a foodie, or a sun-seeker, Athens promises an unforgettable journey.

1-Day Itinerary

Day 1

Exploring Ancient History and Local Culture

Morning

Start your day with a visit to the less crowded but equally fascinating Kerameikos, the ancient cemetery of Athens. This archaeological site offers a unique perspective into the city's history and culture. Afterward, take a stroll through the nearby neighborhood of Psyrri, known for its vibrant street art and local artisan shops.

Lunch

Enjoy a traditional Greek lunch in a local taverna in the heart of Psyrri. Try local delicacies such as moussaka, souvlaki, and a glass of local wine. Remember, Greek cuisine is all about sharing, so order a variety of dishes to share.

Afternoon

Head to the National Garden, a green oasis in the heart of the city. Here, you can relax, enjoy the beautiful scenery, and even visit the small zoo. Later, explore the Panathenaic Stadium, a marvel of white marble and the site of the first modern Olympic Games.

Dinner

For dinner, head to a local seafood tavern in the Mikrolimano area. Enjoy fresh fish and seafood dishes accompanied by a bottle of ouzo, the traditional Greek spirit.

Evening

End your day with a romantic walk along the marina in Mikrolimano, enjoying the beautiful night view of the illuminated city and the sea. If you're up for it, join a late-night wine tasting tour to sample some of the best Greek wines.

Attractions in Itinerary (5)

Kerameikos

1
Kerameikos

Kerameikos is an area of Athens, Greece, located to the northwest of the Acropolis, which includes an extensive area both within and outside the city walls, on both sides of the Dipylon (Dipylon) Gate and by the banks of the Eridanos River. It was the potters' quarter of the city, from which the English word 'ceramic' is derived, and was also the site of an important cemetery and numerous funerary sculptures erected along the road out of the city.

Attractions
Monuments
Cultural Experiences
Architecture
Psyrri

2
Psyrri

Psyrri is a hip, vibrant neighborhood in Athens, known for its lively entertainment scene with live music venues, mainstream and alternative clubs, as well as trendy bars and tavernas. It's also home to a variety of shops, from vintage boutiques to artisanal shops, and a popular destination for street food and traditional Greek cuisine.

Neighborhoods
Food and Drink
Entertainment
National Garden

3
National Garden

The National Garden is a public park of 15.5 hectares in the center of the Greek capital, Athens. It is located directly behind the Greek Parliament building and continues to the south to the area where the Zappeion is located, across from the Panathenaiko or Kalimarmaro Olympic Stadium of the 1896 Olympic Games.

Parks
Gardens
Panathenaic Stadium

4
Panathenaic Stadium

A multi-purpose stadium in Athens, Greece. One of the main historic attractions of Athens, it is the only stadium in the world built entirely of marble.

Attractions
Sports
Landmarks
Mikrolimano

5
Mikrolimano

Mikrolimano is a beautiful small harbor in Piraeus, part of Athens, with a stunning view of the sea. It's lined with seafood restaurants and tavernas, making it a popular spot for food and drink. The harbor is also a landmark in itself, and the nearby beaches offer a place to relax and enjoy the Greek sun.

Attractions
Beaches
Food and Drink

Local Food and Drinks (12)

Moussaka

Moussaka

A traditional Greek dish made of layered eggplant, minced meat, and béchamel sauce, a must-try when in Athens.

Souvlaki

Souvlaki

Popular Greek fast food consisting of small pieces of meat and sometimes vegetables grilled on a skewer, a common sight in Athens.

Tzatziki

Tzatziki

A classic Greek appetizer or dip made from yogurt, cucumber, garlic, olive oil, and sometimes lemon juice, and dill. It's a staple in Athens.

Dolmades

Dolmades

Stuffed grape leaves with a filling of rice, often includes pine nuts, and various spices. A traditional dish in Athens.

Spanakopita

Spanakopita

A savory Greek pastry with a filling of chopped spinach, feta cheese, onions, egg, and seasoning, a popular snack in Athens.

Baklava

Baklava

A rich, sweet dessert pastry made of layers of filo filled with chopped nuts and sweetened and held together with syrup or honey. It's a classic dessert in Athens.

Horiatiki

Horiatiki

Also known as Greek Salad, it is made with pieces of tomatoes, sliced cucumbers, onion, feta cheese, and olives, typically seasoned with salt and oregano, and dressed with olive oil. A common dish in Athens.

Pastitsio

Pastitsio

A baked pasta dish with ground meat and béchamel sauce, similar to lasagna but with tubular pasta, and cinnamon, nutmeg, and allspice. A traditional dish in Athens.

Loukoumades

Loukoumades

Small, sweet fried dough balls drenched in honey syrup and sprinkled with cinnamon, a popular dessert in Athens.

Retsina

Retsina

A traditional Greek resinated white or rosé wine, which has been made for at least 2000 years. Its unique flavor is said to have originated from the practice of sealing wine vessels, particularly amphorae, with Aleppo Pine resin in ancient times. A must-try when in Athens.

Ouzo

Ouzo

An anise-flavored aperitif that is widely consumed in Greece and Cyprus, and a symbol of Greek culture. Best enjoyed in Athens.

Frappe

Frappe

A foam-covered iced coffee drink made from instant coffee, water, sugar, and milk. It's a popular drink in Athens, especially during the hot summer months.

Best time to visit

The best time to visit Athens, Greece is during the spring (April to June) or fall (September to November). During these periods, the weather is mild and pleasant, perfect for sightseeing and exploring the city's ancient sites. Additionally, these are considered shoulder seasons, so it's less crowded with tourists compared to the peak summer months. This means shorter lines at attractions and potentially lower prices for accommodations.

National holidays

Here you can find the national calendar of all public holidays for the year. These dates are subject to change as official changes are announced, so check back regularly for updates.

DateDayHoliday Name

January 1

Mon

New Year's Day

January 6

Sat

Epiphany

March 18

Mon

Clean Monday

March 25

Mon

Annunciation of the Virgin Mary

March 25

Mon

Greek Independence Day

May 1

Wed

Labor Day / May Day

May 3

Fri

Orthodox Good Friday

May 6

Mon

Orthodox Easter Monday

June 24

Mon

Orthodox Holy Spirit Monday

August 15

Thu

Dormition of the Holy Virgin

October 28

Mon

The Ochi day

December 25

Wed

Christmas Day

December 26

Thu

Synaxis of the Mother of God

Please note that during national and public holidays, opening hours for establishments, museums, etc. may vary. Don't forget to check in advance!

How to get around

The Athens Metro is a rapid-transit system in Greece which serves the Athens urban area and parts of East Attica. It incorporates the former Athens-Piraeus Electric Railways, which opened as a conventional steam railway in 1869, and which was electrified in 1904 and is now part of Line 1. The metro system provides a fast, efficient and cheap way to get around the city.

Athens has an extensive bus network that covers the city center, suburbs, and nearby areas. The buses are modern and most of them are air-conditioned. The bus network includes regular buses, express buses to the airport, and night buses.

The Athens Tram is a tram network which serves the southern coastal suburbs of Athens, Greece. It is operated by Urban Rail Transport (STASY) S.A. It provides a scenic and convenient way to travel along the coast, and connects with the metro and bus networks.

Taxis are a common way to get around in Athens. They are relatively inexpensive and can be hailed on the street or booked in advance. All taxis are equipped with a meter, and drivers are required by law to use it.

Ridesharing services like Uber and Beat are available in Athens. These services allow you to book a ride using a smartphone app. They are a convenient and often cheaper alternative to taxis, especially if you are traveling with a group or have a lot of luggage.

If you prefer to drive yourself, there are many car rental companies in Athens. Driving in Athens can be challenging due to heavy traffic and narrow streets, but it gives you the flexibility to explore the city and surrounding areas at your own pace.

Athens has a growing network of bicycle lanes, and many areas of the city are flat and easy to navigate by bike. There are several places where you can rent a bike for the day or for a longer period.

Walking is a great way to explore Athens, especially the historic city center. Many of the city's main attractions, including the Acropolis, Plaka, and the National Archaeological Museum, are within walking distance of each other.

The Lycabettus Funicular is a funicular railway in Athens, which links Kolonaki to the summit of Lycabettus hill. It provides a unique and scenic way to reach one of the best viewpoints in the city.

While we strive for accuracy in our "How to get around" section, the information may not always be up-to-date or 100% accurate; we highly recommend cross-checking with local resources before your travel.

Important information

Currency€ EUR

Time zoneUTC+2

Driving sideRight

Emergency phoneAmbulance: 112, 166; Fire: 112, 199; Police: 112, 100

Drinking waterOpt for bottled water

Power sockets

Power socket type CPower socket type F

Voltage230 V

Things to know about Athens, Greece as a first time visitor

1

The official language is Greek, but English is widely spoken in tourist areas.

2

The currency is the Euro (€). Credit cards are widely accepted, but it's also a good idea to carry some cash.

3

Tipping is customary in Greece. In restaurants, it's common to leave a tip of around 5-10% of the bill.

4

The standard voltage in Greece is 230 V, and the frequency is 50 Hz. The power plugs and sockets are of type F.

5

Greece is in the Eastern European Time Zone (EET), which is 2 hours ahead of Coordinated Universal Time (UTC+2).

6

Greece has a Mediterranean climate. Summers (June to August) are hot and dry with temperatures often above 86°F (30°C), while winters (December to February) are mild with temperatures usually between 41-59°F (5-15°C).

7

Public transportation in Athens includes buses, trolleys, trams, and the metro. Taxis are also widely available.

8

Greece is generally a safe country, but like any major city, Athens has areas that are best avoided. Always be aware of your surroundings and keep your belongings secure.

9

Greek cuisine is a highlight of any visit. Be sure to try local dishes such as moussaka, souvlaki, and tzatziki.

10

Smoking is very common in Greece and is allowed in many public places, including some restaurants and bars.

11

Tap water in Athens is generally safe to drink, but bottled water is widely available if you prefer.

12

Greece operates on a 24-hour clock, similar to military time in the U.S. For example, 1:00 p.m. would be 13:00.

13

Pharmacies in Greece are marked with a green cross and are usually open from 8:00 to 14:30 and then from 17:30 to 20:30.

14

The emergency number in Greece for police, fire, and ambulance services is 112.

15

Greece has strict laws against drug use, and penalties can be severe.

16

Public restrooms can be hard to find in Athens, and many charge a small fee.

17

It's considered respectful to dress modestly when visiting religious sites, such as churches and monasteries.

18

Greece has a strict policy against photographing military installations or personnel.

19

Most shops in Athens close on Sundays, and many also close in the afternoon for a few hours.

20

Athens can be very crowded, especially during the peak tourist season (June to August). Plan accordingly to avoid the crowds.

Basic Greek to know as a first time visitor

English phrase

Native phrase

Pronunciation

When to use it

Hello

Γεια σου

Yah soo

Greeting someone

Goodbye

Αντίο

Adio

Leaving or saying goodbye

Please

Παρακαλώ

Parakalo

Making a request

Thank you

Ευχαριστώ

Efharisto

Expressing gratitude

Yes

Ναι

Nai

Agreeing or confirming

No

Όχι

Ohi

Disagreeing or denying

Excuse me

Συγγνώμη

Signomi

Getting attention or apologizing

I'm sorry

Λυπάμαι

Lipame

Apologizing

Do you speak English?

Μιλάτε αγγλικά;

Milate anglika;

Trying to communicate

I don't understand

Δεν καταλαβαίνω

Den katalaveno

Difficulty in understanding

Help

Βοήθεια

Voítheia

In emergencies

Bathroom

Μπάνιο

Bánio

Looking for a restroom

Food

Φαγητό

Fagitó

Looking for a place to eat

Water

Νερό

Neró

Asking for water

Beer

Μπύρα

Bíra

Ordering a beer

Wine

Κρασί

Krasí

Ordering a wine

Check, please

Ο λογαριασμός, παρακαλώ

O logariasmos, parakaló

Asking for the bill

How much does it cost?

Πόσο κοστίζει;

Poso kostízei;

Enquiring about the price

Where is...?

Πού είναι...?

Pou ine...?

Asking for directions

I'm lost

Έχω χαθεί

Eho hathee

When you are lost

Packing List

  • Clothing

  • Comfortable walking shoes

  • Lightweight clothing

  • Sweater or light jacket

  • Sunglasses

  • Hat or cap

  • Swimsuit (if planning to swim)

  • Toiletries

  • Travel-size toothpaste

  • Toothbrush

  • Deodorant

  • Travel-size shampoo and conditioner

  • Sunscreen

  • Hand sanitizer

  • Face mask

  • Travel documents and essentials

  • Passport

  • Driver's license or ID card

  • Credit and debit cards

  • Cash (Euros)

  • Travel insurance documents

  • Hotel and transportation reservation confirmations

  • Emergency contacts and addresses

  • Electronics and gadgets

  • Smartphone

  • Charger for smartphone

  • Power bank

  • Headphones

  • Camera (if not using smartphone camera)

  • Adapter plug (Greece uses Type C and Type F plugs)

  • Miscellaneous items

  • Travel guidebook for Athens

  • Map of Athens

  • Reusable water bottle

  • Snacks

  • Travel pillow

  • Travel first aid kit

Weather Conditions

When visiting Athens, Greece, it's crucial to consider the weather as it can significantly impact your travel experience. Athens experiences a Mediterranean climate with hot, dry summers and mild, wet winters. During the summer months (June to August), temperatures can soar up to 95°F (35°C), so it's advisable to pack light clothing, sunblock, hats, and sunglasses to protect yourself from the heat. It's also a good idea to stay hydrated and plan sightseeing activities during the cooler parts of the day, such as early morning or late afternoon. Spring (April to June) and autumn (September to November) are considered the best times to visit Athens. The weather is typically warm and pleasant, with temperatures ranging from 60°F (15°C) to 75°F (24°C). These seasons are perfect for outdoor activities and sightseeing, as the city is less crowded and the weather is comfortable. Winter (December to February) in Athens is mild compared to other European cities, with temperatures usually between 41°F (5°C) and 59°F (15°C). However, rainfall is more frequent during this period, so packing a waterproof jacket or umbrella would be wise. Regardless of the season, it's always a good idea to check the weather forecast before your trip to ensure you're adequately prepared. Remember, the weather can sometimes be unpredictable, so packing a variety of clothing options is always a good idea.

MonthHi / Lo (°C)Weather Overview

January

15° / 5°

January is the coldest month in Athens, but it's still relatively mild compared to many other European destinations. The weather can be unpredictable, with occasional rain, so pack accordingly.

February

16° / 6°

February sees a slight increase in temperature, but rain is still possible. It's a good time to visit if you want to avoid the tourist crowds.

March

18° / 8°

March marks the beginning of spring in Athens. The weather starts to warm up, but there can still be some rainy days.

April

21° / 11°

April is a great time to visit Athens, with pleasant temperatures and plenty of sunshine. The Easter celebrations in Greece are also a unique experience.

May

25° / 15°

May is an ideal time to visit Athens, with warm, sunny weather and little rain. It's perfect for sightseeing and exploring the city's outdoor attractions.

June

30° / 20°

June is the start of the summer season in Athens. The weather is hot, but not unbearable, and the city is full of life.

July

33° / 23°

July is the hottest month in Athens, with temperatures often exceeding 30°C. It's a great time to hit the beaches, but be prepared for the heat.

August

33° / 23°

August is equally hot as July, but the city is less crowded as many locals go on vacation. It's a good time to visit if you don't mind the heat.

September

29° / 19°

September is a fantastic time to visit Athens, with less crowds and still warm weather. The sea is also at its warmest, perfect for swimming.

October

25° / 15°

October sees the return of cooler, more comfortable temperatures. It's a great time to visit if you want to avoid the summer crowds and heat.

November

21° / 11°

November is a quiet time to visit Athens, with mild weather and fewer tourists. It's a good time to explore the city's museums and historical sites.

December

17° / 7°

December is the start of winter in Athens, but the weather remains relatively mild. It's a good time to visit if you want to experience the city's Christmas festivities.

Did you know?

Did you know that Athens is one of the oldest cities in the world, with its recorded history spanning over 3,400 years?

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