Top 4 Itineraries in Athens

No matter how long you plan to stay, there’s a perfect trip to Athens.

If you only have a few days, Athens weekend getaways are the perfect option. A 3 to 5-day stay in Athens offers just enough time to soak in the highlights

For a balanced mix of sightseeing and relaxation, city breaks in Athens are ideal. With a few extra days, you can dive deeper into Athens’s most iconic landmarks, stroll through charming neighborhoods, and savor local cuisine at a leisurely pace.

For those who crave freedom and discovery, road trips through Athens offer the perfect opportunity to explore beyond the city. With the open road ahead, you’ll uncover Greece's most scenic landscapes, visit charming towns, and discover hidden gems along the way.

For sun seekers, beach vacations in Athens offer the perfect escape. Whether 5, 7 or 10 days, spend them unwinding on sandy shores, swimming in crystal-clear waters, and soaking up the coastal beauty.

Explore all the best trips for every travel style below and make your next trip to Athens truly unforgettable!

If you’re as convinced as we are that Athens belongs on your bucket list, you're in luck. The best trips to Athens are just a quick search away.

Enter your dates below to discover the best travel packages in Athens and start planning your next trip!

Discover the perfect Athens itinerary with our handpicked list. Whether you're in Athens for a short stay or a longer visit, there's an itinerary for you.

With detailed routes, top attractions, and insider tips, these 4 itineraries will help you experience the best of Athens without missing a thing. Dive into our list and learn how to plan the ultimate trip to Athens!

A scenic 8-day road trip through Athina, Sparti, Nayplio, Kalamata, and Mykines is one of the best ways to experience Greece. With the freedom to travel at your own pace, you’ll have plenty of opportunities to make spontaneous stops between the planned activities on your itinerary.

A 8-day itinerary means that Athens can easily be combined with other top destinations in Greece without stress. While it’s possible to travel between Athina, Sparti, Nayplio, Kalamata, and Mykines by public transport, renting a car in Greece opens up a whole new level of freedom!

So, with 8 days to spend, all you need is a rental car, some hotel reservations, and this iconic road trip itinerary:

Day 1: Arrive in Kalamata

• Arrival city: Kalamata
• Accommodation: hotel in Kalamata, e.g., The Residences Kalamata
• Sightseeing: Central Square of Kalamata

Begin your road trip adventure by picking up your rental car at the airport upon arrival in Kalamata. Drive to your centrally located hotel, which offers convenient access to local attractions. Spend the day exploring nearby sights, and in the evening, enjoy dinner at a local restaurant, sampling regional flavors and soaking up the atmosphere.

Day 2: Explore Sparti, Kalamata, and Mystras

• Destinations: Sparti, Kalamata, and Mystras
• Driving distance: 110.87 km, approx. 1 hour and 48 minutes
• Accommodation: hotel in Sparta, e.g., Mazaraki Guesthouse
• Sightseeing: Pantanassa Holy Convent, Kalamata's Castle, Archaeological Museum of Messinia, Radiotaxi Kalamatas, and Church of the Holy Apostles

Set out on a day of discovery and visit Pantanassa Holy Convent, Kalamata's Castle, Archaeological Museum of Messinia, Radiotaxi Kalamatas, and Church of the Holy Apostles. Take time to enjoy the scenery and local highlights of Sparti, Kalamata, and Mystras, with the freedom to stop at whatever sight catches your interest. By the end of the day, check-in at a new hotel, located in central Sparta.

Day 3: Discover Athina and Sparti

• Destinations: Athina and Sparti
• Driving distance: 219.02 km, approx. 3 hours and 21 minutes
• Accommodation: 5-star hotel in Athens, e.g., Electra Metropolis Athens
• Sightseeing: Statue of Leonidas, Ancient Agora of Athens, and Temple of Olympian Zeus
• Recommended tour: Acropolis monuments & Parthenon Walking Tour with Optional Acropolis Museum

Spend the day exploring Statue of Leonidas, Ancient Agora of Athens, and Temple of Olympian Zeus. Take scenic drives or walking tours to experience the area’s charm at your own pace. End the day by checking into a new hotel, conveniently located in central Athens.

Day 4: Experience Athina

• Destinations: Athina
• Driving distance: 5.3 km, approx. 1 hour and 12 minutes
• Accommodation: 5-star hotel in Athens, e.g., Electra Metropolis Athens
• Sightseeing: Acropolis Museum, Acropolis of Athens, Monastiraki Square, Athens National Garden, and Parthenon
• Recommended tour: Acropolis and Parthenon Guided Walking Tour

Continue your journey through Athina, where you can explore Acropolis Museum, Acropolis of Athens, Monastiraki Square, Athens National Garden, and Parthenon. Make time for a break at a cozy café or scenic picnic spot.

Day 5: Enjoy Sightseeing in Nayplio and Dimos Epidayroy

• Destinations: Nayplio and Dimos Epidayroy
• Driving distance: 167.77 km, approx. 2 hours and 58 minutes
• Accommodation: 3-star hotel in Nafplio, e.g., La Petite Planete
• Sightseeing: Nafplio Port, The Statue of Otto, War Museum Nafplio, Archaeological Site of the Sanctuary of Asclepius at Epidaurus, and Ancient Theatre at the Asclepieion of Epidaurus

Drive through Nayplio and Dimos Epidayroy, stopping to visit Nafplio Port, The Statue of Otto, War Museum Nafplio, Archaeological Site of the Sanctuary of Asclepius at Epidaurus, and Ancient Theatre at the Asclepieion of Epidaurus. Don't forget to embrace the opportunity to explore smaller towns and hidden gems along the way. Conclude your day by settling into a centrally located hotel in Nafplio.

Day 6: Embrace the Spirit of Nayplio and Mykines

• Destinations: Nayplio and Mykines
• Driving distance: 58.56 km, approx. 2 hours and 50 minutes
• Accommodation: 3-star hotel in Nafplio, e.g., La Petite Planete
• Sightseeing: "Treasury of Atreus" or "Tomb of Agamemnon", Lion of the Bavarians, Fortress of Palamidi, Fortress of Akronauplía, and Archeological Museum of Mycenae

Spend time discovering "Treasury of Atreus" or "Tomb of Agamemnon", Lion of the Bavarians, Fortress of Palamidi, Fortress of Akronauplía, and Archeological Museum of Mycenae, with plenty of opportunities to engage in outdoor activities or enjoy local culture.

Day 7: Spend Time in Archaia Olympia

• Destinations: Archaia Olympia
• Driving distance: 311.88 km, approx. 4 hours and 25 minutes
• Accommodation: hotel in Kalamata, e.g., The Residences Kalamata
• Sightseeing: Archaeological Site of Olympia, Temple of Hera, and Museum of the History of the Olympic Games of antiquity

Explore Archaeological Site of Olympia, Temple of Hera, and Museum of the History of the Olympic Games of antiquity at a relaxed pace. Make spontaneous stops for sightseeing, photography, or lunch at a family-run restaurant. Finish the day by checking into another comfortable hotel in the center of Kalamata.

Day 8: Bid Farewell to Kalamata

• Departure city: Kalamata
• Driving distance: 1.94 km, approx. 23 minutes
• Sightseeing: Municipal Railway Park of Kalamata

Savor an hour or two for souvenir shopping or revisiting a favorite spot before it’s time to say goodbye to Kalamata. Drop off your rental car at the airport a couple of hours before departure for a seamless end to your trip.

The estimated cost for a rental car and accommodations for each night along this route is around 744 EUR, providing a value-for-money way to experience what's beyond Athens.

Looking for something different? Explore more road trips with a stop in Athens for alternative itineraries, routes, and durations.

Enjoy a 5-day city break in Athens with the perfect itinerary, designed to showcase the city’s top sights, local flavors, and hidden corners.

With a long list of top-rated attractions in Athens and Athens's widest selection of tours and activities at your fingertips, it's easy to plan a travel itinerary filled with unforgettable moments and discoveries.

No need to stress over the details – we’ve curated the perfect 5-day itinerary to give you a seamless outline for your trip. Use this itinerary to capture the best of Athens without the hassle of planning.

Day 1: Begin Your Journey in Athens

Arrive in Athens and start your trip with a relaxing walk through town.

Take in the local charm as you wander the streets, and as evening approaches, indulge in a delicious dinner at a local restaurant. Zampano is a top-rated recommendation. Say 'cheers' and set the tone for an amazing vacation ahead!

Day 2: Discover Athens's Most Iconic Attractions

Enjoy your first full day in Athens by heading out for some must-see sightseeing. Explore around town and visit popular attractions like the iconic Acropolis Museum, Acropolis of Athens, Philopappos Hill, Choragic Monument of Lysicrates, and Parthenon.

One of the best ways to quickly learn how to navigate the city is to join one of the many great city sightseeing tours in Athens. Choose a walking tour to embrace a relaxed exploration. Alternatively, go for a tour by bus or bike to cover a larger part of Athens in the same amount of time.

In the evening, head out for another lovely dinner and raise a glass to a fantastic day of exploring!

Day 3: Learn More About the Top Sights in Athens

Use this day to discover more of Athens’s top sights. We recommend visiting Monastiraki Square, Ancient Agora of Athens, National Archaeological Museum, and Temple of Olympian Zeus.

To make the most of your time, don’t forget to book your attraction tickets and passes in Athens in advance. Beyond possible savings, booking tickets early ensures availability even for Athens's most popular attractions.

After a nice dinner, take a walk through the city center and experience Athens’s attractions in another light.

Day 4: Explore the Local Flavors of Athens

Start the day with breakfast at a local cafe before you head out to explore. Stavros Niarchos Foundation Cultural Center, Water Square, and Stavros Niarchos Park are attractions you could discover today.

Afterward, enjoy lunch or visit a local market. Spend the afternoon shopping for unique souvenirs to memorialize your city break in Athens.

For a fun and interesting evening, check out the food and drink tours in Athens. Take the opportunity to sample local specialties and learn more about the food culture of Greece!

Day 5: Savor Your Final Moments in Athens

Spend your last few hours in Athens soaking up the charm of the city at your own pace. Stroll through favorite spots or revisit local markets before bidding farewell to the city.

We recommend booking your transfers from Athens in advance.

For more inspiration, explore the complete selection of city breaks in Athens, all including pre-planned itineraries you can customize to suit your style. Start with a ready-to-go Athens travel plan and make it your own by selecting tours, accommodations, and more.

A 6-day beach vacation in Athens offers the perfect mix of sun, sand, and relaxation.

Highlights of the best beach vacation itinerary in Athens:

• Beaches: Spend your days at Avlaki beach, Erotospilia beach, and Spiders Beach.
• Accommodation: Enjoy a relaxing stay close to the beach at places like Apollo complex 1 for easy access to nearby dining and activities.
• Dining experiences: Savor the flavors of the coast at The OLD STATION, Zampano, and Marida Seafood Restaurant, and other nearby dining spots.
• Nightlife: Enjoy live music and late-night entertainment at bars like Mayros Gatos, Enigma Stoupa, and Diamond Beach Club Moudania, and more.
• Cultural experiences: Explore Acropolis of Athens and Parthenon, local markets, and souvenir shops.

With a well-planned 6-day beach vacation itinerary in Athens, you can fully unwind, knowing your time is optimized for some of the best local beaches and daily activities.

Day 1: Begin Your Beach Escape in Athens

Arrive in Athens, settle into your hotel, and take in the sea breeze as you prepare for 6 days of relaxation and adventure. Enjoy a refreshing swim at Avlaki beach or explore the attractions near your accommodation as you settle in Athens.

Day 2: Relax at a Top Local Beach

Enjoy a day under the sun at Erotospilia beach, a top beach in Athens. In the afternoon, make sure to visit Temple of Poseidon and Archaeological Site of Sounion for an exploration of local attractions. As evening approaches, head to one of the best restaurants in the area to taste the freshest local dishes.

Day 6: Say Farewell to Athens

Wrap up your trip with a leisurely morning exploring any missed highlights in Athens. Pick up last-minute souvenirs, grab a coffee at a beachfront café, and savor one last view of the sea before you say goodbye.

For more beach vacation ideas, explore all beach vacations in Athens. Whether you're seeking a brief escape or an extended stay by the sea, these trips offer pre-planned, customizable itineraries, making it simple to enjoy the best of Athens's coastline.

A 4-day weekend getaway in Athens offers the perfect break from the hustle of daily life. But with so many things to see and do in Athens, fitting it all into a short visit can easily feel overwhelming.

However, with a well-planned Athens itinerary, you can effortlessly experience the best of the city in just a few days. Picture yourself exploring iconic landmarks, savoring local cuisine, and wandering charming neighborhoods—it's all within reach as long as you know how to plan your trip properly.

With 4 days to spend, this is the perfect Athens weekend itinerary for your trip:

Day 1 - Arrive in Athens

Arrive in Athens around noon and head to your hotel for an early check-in.

• Morning: Take some time to relax and refresh after your journey, or get a head start by visiting a nearby landmark.
• Afternoon: Ease into your trip with some sightseeing, and soak in the surroundings.
• Evening: Dine at a popular restaurant and celebrate the start of the vacation with some drinks.
• Tip: Book an airport transfer to Athens in advance for a smooth journey. End the day with an evening stroll for an enchanting first glimpse of Athens by night.

Day 2 - Discover Athens’s Famous Sights

Maximize your first full day in Athens with sightseeing, food, and drinks.

• Morning: Visit Acropolis Museum early to avoid crowds and enjoy the views.
• Afternoon: Continue to Philopappos Hill, stopping by Acropolis of Athens for a break and some photos.
• Evening: Dine at a popular restaurant and cap off the day at a local bar.
• Tip: Use part of the morning to join one of the many city sightseeing tours in Athens and get a guided journey through the top attractions in the city.

Day 3 - Immerse in the Local Culture of Athens

No itinerary in Athens is complete without trying the city's top local delicacies and experiencing the culture.

• Morning: Start with a traditional breakfast to fuel up for the day and then head to Monastiraki Square.
• Afternoon: Explore Ancient Agora of Athens and National Archaeological Museum, stopping at markets, boutiques, museums, or exhibitions along the way.
• Evening: Enjoy a dinner featuring regional specialties and finish with a night tour of the city’s illuminated landmarks.
• Tip: Explore food and drink experiences in Athens and join an afternoon tour to sample the authentic flavors of Greece.

Day 4 - Depart from Athens

Make the most of your last few hours in Athens before your departure.

• Morning: Grab a light breakfast at a local bakery or café and take a final stroll nearby.
• Afternoon: If you have time, do some last-minute sightseeing.
• Tip: Schedule an airport transfer from Athens in advance to enjoy a stress-free end to your trip in Athens.

For more ideas, explore our complete selection of weekend trips to Athens. Whether you’re looking for a quick getaway or want to extend the weekend, these trips all come with pre-planned but customizable Athens itineraries, ensuring an effortless travel experience.

As you explore Athens, you’ll find countless layers of history, art, and local charm waiting to be uncovered. For those curious about the city’s highlights, our guide to the best things to do in Athens offers plenty of inspiration.

Finding the right place to stay is essential for a comfortable trip. This is why we've also gathered our top recommendations for the best places to stay in Athens for you.

If you're unsure of when to visit, don't forget to check out our insights on the best time to visit Athens. We'll share everything we know about weather, crowd levels, and price fluctuations throughout the year.

Wherever your journey takes you, we’re here to make every step memorable. From expert tips to local insights, count on us to help you experience Athens in a way that feels truly unforgettable!