Wondering what you can do in Athens in a day? Is it a Stop during your cruise? Athens in a day is not a problem! With my Athens in a day guide I will share with you exactly where to go, where to stay, who to hire and the must sees in this guide.
I have always enjoyed history so visiting Athens, Greece was on my bucket list. Although I did not travel to Athens via a cruise ship and I had a little more than a day to visit the city I can however provide you with great tips and locations of where to go and how to plan your day in this magnificent ancient city!
A few things before I share this Athens in a day itinerary. I was in Athens for 2 days and hired a driver to complete the tour I will detail below. I used Johns Taxi service http://www.athens-taxi.net/ a full service personal driver and sightseeing service. All their taxis are air conditioned new Mercedes Benz sedans. The prices are reasonable and the drivers are so courteous and knowledgeable. Prices start at 250 Euro. There are also hop-on and hop-off busses which are about 14 euro per person or you can simply walk around yourself with a map in handy. Whatever the method you decide and enjoy this mystical city of Athens in a day!
Pick Up- You can arrange a Port or Airport pick up
1st Head to the Acropolis first thing in the morning. (12 Euro)
– Beat the crowd and the heat
– Plan on wearing a hat and comfortable shoes as you walk through a lot of rubble.
– The Parthenon, Temple of Athena
– Once the heart of civilization
2nd Walk to The Arch of Hadrian
– Free to view and it is included in your Acropolis pass.
3rd Walk to the Old Olympic Stadium (Free or 3Euro to get in)
4th The Parliament & Changing of the Guards (occurs every hour 24 hours a day!)
5th Plaka Area
– Cafes, restaurants and shop lined streets
– Buy your souvenirs here.
6th Lykavittos Hill
– Highest point in Athens
– Great place to take pictures
– Panoramic view
If you have time… head to Cape Sounion to the Temple of Poseidon. (Fee 4 Euro)
Our driver too us on a ride along the the Saronic Gulf, passing through some of Athens most beautiful suburbs (Glyfada,Vouliagmeni,Varkiza) and stopped on a seaside seafood tavern for a late lunch on our way to Cape Sounion. Cape Sounion is where you will visit the 5th century B.C Temple of Poseidon with one of the most breathtaking panoramic views in the world.
Drive takes about 1 hour and worth every minute of it!
Additional tips: I high recommend staying at a hotel near or in the PLAKA area of Athens. It is walking distance to great restaurants, sights and the lively squares & shopping!
Eat well and travel often!
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