Spending two days in Athens is like stepping into a living museum where ancient history seamlessly blends with vibrant modern culture. If you're planning a short getaway to this iconic city, you'll be amazed at how much you can experience in just 48 hours. I did just that recently and felt like it was a sufficient amount of time to get a feel for the city and see the highlights.  Here's how to make the most of your time in Athens, capturing both its historical grandeur and contemporary charm.

Getting there

The two easiest ways to get to Athens is by air or by boat/ferry, which is likely how you'll get there whether you're coming from another Greek island or a different country.  The Athens airport is quite a distance from the city itself.  You can take a cab or an Uber from the airport to the heart of Athens.  This ride takes anywhere between 45 minutes and 1 hour.  There is also a metro line from the airport that will take you through central Athens.  The metro takes about 40 minutes to reach the city.

If you are coming to Athens by either large cruise ship or a ferry from another Greek island you will likely be docking at the Piraeus Port.  This port is closer to the city than the airport and there is a direct metro line that will take you to the city center in about 15 minutes.

Where to stay

Monastiraki Square is where all the action is in Athens.  Restaurants, rooftop bars and markets are all located in and around this square that is located at the foot of the Acropolis.  This part of the city seemingly doesn't sleep.  I stayed at the O&B Athens Boutique Hotel which was about 6 blocks from Monastiraki Square.  And while it was nice to walk most places from the hotel and the metro line was close, we could hear the noise from the bars and activity for much of the night.

For a quieter area that is still close to many of the attractions, you'll want to find a hotel in the Plaka area a bit further from Monastiraki Square.  The Plaka area still has plenty of shops, restaurants and bars to enjoy within easy walking distance.  If I stay in Athens again, I would find a hotel near this area.

What to do

No trip to Athens is complete without a visit to the heart of ancient Athens—the Acropolis. As you ascend the rocky hill, you'll be greeted by the awe-inspiring sight of the Parthenon, a testament to the architectural genius of ancient Greece. Standing atop the Acropolis, you can't help but feel a sense of wonder at the history that unfolded here. The panoramic views of Athens sprawling beneath you are breathtaking, offering a glimpse into the city's past and present. Be sure to take your time exploring the other ancient structures, like the Erechtheion with its iconic Caryatids, and imagine the vibrant life that once filled these sacred grounds.

You will want to book your tickets to the Acropolis in advance as it does sell out daily.  The crowds will be there for most of the day but if you are staying in Athens in the summer you will find less crowds in the evening, so I recommend going later in the day if you can.  When you purchase your tickets to the Acropolis, you have the option to purchase a combo ticket that will get you into the Acropolis and 5 other sites within a 5-day period.  This is what I did and I highly recommend purchasing this ticket to gain quick access to some of Athens' most historic ancient sites.

After immersing yourself in history, dive into the lively atmosphere of Monastiraki Market, located at the foot of the Acropolis. This bustling bazaar is a sensory delight, with its colorful stalls offering everything from handmade crafts and vintage treasures to aromatic spices and delicious street food. As you wander through the maze of vendors, be sure to sample some traditional Greek snacks, like koulouri or loukoumades, for a true taste of Athens. The market's vibrant energy and eclectic offerings make it a perfect spot to pick up unique souvenirs and experience the local culture firsthand.

Head to one of the city's renowned rooftop bars for an unforgettable evening. A is for Athens and 360 Bar are two popular choices that I was able to enjoy on separate evenings. Each offers stunning views of the illuminated Acropolis. Sipping on a cocktail while watching the city come alive at night is an experience not to be missed. The atmosphere is lively yet relaxed, providing the perfect setting to reflect on the day's adventures and soak in the beauty of Athens by night.  If you have to pick just one, I would go with A is for Athens. It is smaller but the views are superior.

One morning of your trip you'll want to make your way to Mount Lycabettus, the highest point in Athens.  Offering a breathtaking panoramic view of the city and rising 277 meters above sea level, this limestone hill is accessible via an underground funicular railway or a pleasant hiking trail, allowing visitors to soak in the beauty of the Acropolis and the sprawling Athenian skyline. At the summit, you’ll find the charming Chapel of St. George, a perfect spot for photography.  At the bottom of the hill is a nice street market that I was able to take a stroll through before moving on for the rest of my day.

Not far from Mount Lycabettus is the Panathinaiko Stadium, a marvel of ancient architecture and a symbol of the Olympic spirit. Built entirely of marble, this stadium hosted the first modern Olympic Games in 1896 and continues to be a site of historical significance. Walking through the stadium, you can almost hear the echoes of cheering crowds and feel the excitement of athletes who once competed here. It's a humbling experience that connects you to the timeless legacy of athletic excellence.

From the Panathinaiko Stadium, about half a mile walk is the Temple of Olympia Zeus. Once hailed as one of the largest temples of the Greek gods, it was constructed over several centuries, with its most significant development occurring in the 6th century BC under the rule of the Athenian tyrant Peisistratus. Walking by the huge columns made me in awe of just how large the structure was.  It doesn't take long to walk through the site, but it is worth the stop, especially if you purchased the combo ticket.

If you have time, the Ancient Agora of Athens and Roman Agora of Athens are also included in the combo ticket and provide a glimpse of the evolution of social, political, and commercial practices in Athens.  The Ancient Agora of Athens, a pivotal site in the heart of the city, served as the bustling center of public life and democracy in Ancient Greece, where philosophers, politicians, and citizens gathered to discuss ideas and governance. This archaeological marvel is dotted with ruins, including the iconic Temple of Hephaestus and the Stoa of Attalos, which offers insight into Athenian life and culture. In contrast, the Roman Agora, established later during the Roman conquest, reflects the blend of Greek and Roman influences, featuring the impressive Tower of the Winds and remnants of shopping arcades that were once vibrant marketplaces. Both sites are located in the footsteps of the Acropolis so it's likely you'll walk by them at some point during your stay in Athens.

Wrapping Things Up

Two days in Athens may seem brief, but the city's rich tapestry of history, culture, and modern allure ensures that every moment is packed with unforgettable experiences. From the ancient splendor of the Acropolis to the contemporary buzz of rooftop bars, Athens offers a journey through time that will leave you inspired and yearning for more. What would you want to do first during your two days in Athens?