Athens is filled with historical sites, ancient ruins, temples, and hilltop views. Although we recommend 2 full days in Athens, below is an itinerary of this great city that can easily be completed in just 24 hours.
Morning in Athens
1. Grab some Loukoumades at Lukumades
Deep fried fluffy doughnut-like balls drizzled with honey and sprinkled with cinnamon. If that description does not sound heavenly enough, Loukoumades were offered up to the gods during the time of ancient Greece, meaning they should certainly satisfy the sweet tooth of any of us commoners. Perfecting this ancient and traditional recipe is Lukumades. While they do offer many different topping for your Loukoumades, be sure to order plain Loukoumades drizzled it honey and cinnamon for an authentic taste.
Try: Order plain Loukoumades drizzled in honey cinnamon at Lukumades
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Timeframe: 5th century BC
Cost: €20 (€10 from Nov 1st - March 31st) or *Free on Select Days
As the birthplace of democracy, with much historical and archeological significance, visiting the Acropolis is a must while in Athens. Most people confuse the Acropolis & Parthenon. The Acropolis is a fortress that was built in the 5th century BC and houses many ancient buildings such as the Temple of Erechtheion, the Temple of Athena Nike, the theater of Odeon of Herodes, and the most famous being the Parthenon.
Admission: €20 (€10 from Nov 1st - March 31st)
The Parthenon is a marble temple dedicated to the goddess of wisdom & war, Athena. Located at the very top of Lycabetous hill, the Parthenon has withstood many battles, natural disasters, and lootings. The walk up Lycabetous hill takes about 20 minutes and is not too strenuous. There are archeological sites to view throughout the entire Acropolis hill, therefore, depending on your interest and appreciation, the time spent at the Acropolis could be anywhere from one to three hours.
Walking on these grounds is truly walking through history, which to us, was priceless. However, there are ways to see the Acropolis for free. If you plan your trip around the below *free entry days, you will be able to walk right into any archeological site, monument or museum in Greece for free
Free Entry Days to the Acropolis
March 6th: Melina Mercouri Remembrance Day
April 18th: International Monuments Day
May 18th: International Museums Day
Last weekend in September: European Heritage Days
October 28th: Oxi Day
1st Sunday of each month: November 1st - March 31st