Have you ever wondered if it is possible to explore Athens in just one day? We are here to tell you that it is possible! Many people fly to Athens and only spend a day or two before catching a flight or a ferry to the Greek islands, but Athens is a magical city that deserves more time. However, in today’s world, everyone is running out of time, so we have compiled the perfect one-day itinerary for Athens so that you can make the most of your stay.
One-day itinerary in Athens
Morning Story
To plan your one-day itinerary in Athens, consider purchasing The Acropolis and 6 archaeological sites, including the Roman Agora, Hadrian’s Library, The Ancient Agora, and the Temple of Olympian Zeus. Aristotle School and the ancient cemetery of Keramikos.
You have five calendar days from activation to use this Pass. So if you are spending more time in Athens, you can book timed entrances to see each of these attractions first thing in the morning or after in the day.
Acropolis
Most likely, any itinerary in Athens that you have read will tell you to go directly to the Acropolis, and you are right! The Acropolis is the Star Of Athens and should be the first place to visit. Going to the Acropolis first thing in the morning can help you beat the crowds and the heat!
Plan to get to The Acropolis at 7:30 am. We highly recommend booking a hotel with breakfast, and most start with breakfast at 6:30 or 7 am. So, everything should be fine. The Acropolis opens at 8:00 am and you must book your timed entrance in advance. So do it now. Times are booking up fast, and you’ll want to make sure you get your slot.
We have stayed in many places in Athens, but on our last visit we loved the Astor Hotel for its location, its view of the Acropolis and its price — it didn’t break the bank!
We booked the combination of The Acropolis and the 6 most important archaeological sites that still works. This is the best way to see Athens in one day, because the same ticket gives you 1 timed entrance to each place. You have to plan smartly to be on time for your entries, but trust me, you will want to see everything!
The rules are constantly changing and can be a little fuzzy. Therefore, visit the tickets website and our blog post How to spend a day at The Acropolis? to see what the updated rules are. We will continue to monitor it if Greek tourism changes its mind.
You will want to spend about 90 minutes admiring The Acropolis and its other temples, including The Erechtheion, the Temple of Athena Nike and the Odeon of Herod Atticus. The Odentheater still works today and it is spectacular to see.
Ancient Agora
Book your timed entrance to the Ancient Agora for 10:00 am or 10:30 am. This will give you time to explore the highlights of the Acropolis in advance.
From the Acropolis, you will descend for about 15 minutes to the Ancient Agora and the Temple of Hephaestus. You will pass by the Acropolis Museum, but time is running out, and if you want to visit the museum, save it for after in the day. It is open until 9:00 am.
The Ancient Agora is the best preserved ancient ruin in the city. We found it more impressive than the Parthenon, especially in the morning light. Be sure to walk around to see it from all angles.
It was founded in the 6th century BC. The Ancient Agora of Athens was originally used as a gathering place or gathering place. In fact, the word Agora translates as “an assembly of the people”.”The highlight here is the Temple Of Hephaestus, which is magnificent. The intricate details and the beautiful fluted columns make this temple a must-see in Athens, especially if you like Greek architecture.
