The Acropolis is the centerpiece of Athens. Therefore this blog will mostly cover the area around the Acropolis with some useful tips and food recommendations. We were amazed at the fascinating history, magnificent architecture and scenic views. We spent 1 night in Athens before island hopping to Paros, Naxos, Milos and Santorini. This is how we recommend you spend your time here.

Visit the Acropolis Museum and have food/drinks on the rooftop
Walk up the Acropolis and explore the ruins
Explore the Old Town District of Plaka

How to get from the Airport to the city centre?

From the airport we took the M3 metro towards the city. We had to wait as it departs every 30 minutes. The ticket is available at the train station for 9 euro one way and it took us 40 minutes. Alternatively, you can get a taxi which will cost about 35 Euros and takes about 50 minutes.

Where to stay?

We stayed at The Dilan. This newly renovated studio apartment was excellent. Located in the heart of the ancient historical Acropolis, it was a 5 minute walk from the Acropolis Museum and train station. We were given a code to enter the hotel and our room which made it easier to check in. We had complimentary wine, sweets, coffee, tea and water in our room. When we arrived, the host sent us recommendations for restaurants, cafes, bars and shops.

Acropolis Museum

We had lunch at the Acropolis Museum rooftop, from our outside table we could see the Parthenon sitting atop the Acropolis. We had chicken gyros in pita and it cost us about 30 euros without drinks. This modern building is an architectural masterpiece. The Archaeological Museum is built over part of the ruins from Roman and early Byzantine Athens. We could see these ruins from above through glass walkways as we entered the building. Inside are thousands of artifacts found on the Acropolis and surrounding slopes dating back to the Greek Bronze Age.

When: Opening Hours

Price: Buy your ticket
Nov - March: 5 Euro, 3 Euro (reduced)
April - Oct: 10 Euro, 5 Euro (reduced)
Note: Some eligible people get free entry

Acropolis

Opposite the museum, there is a lesser known entrance to the Acropolis. The main entrance is located on the West side. Tickets can be bought at the gate, online or as a combination ticket.

The Acropolis is one of Europe’s most important sites as it is considered to be the birthplace of democracy. It was built around the 5th century BC by Pericles, the first democratic leader of Greece.

The path up the South Side of the mountain took us past impressive ruins including the Theatre of Dionysus and Odeon of Herodes Atticus. The Odeon of Herodes Atticus is still used for summer performances and accommodates up to 5,000 people.

As we reached the top we walked through the grand colonnaded entrance of the Propylaea. The Temple Of Athena Nike stands to the right of the Propylaea as you enter.

The next monument that we laid our eyes on was the largest and most well known, the Parthenon. It was undergoing significant renovation work so some of it was covered in scaffolding.

The other main monument atop the rocky summit is Erechtheion, Pandroseion and The Old Temple Of Athena. This appears to be one building. An olive tree grows beside the building in a sacred spot. One of the most incredible features are the six female statues that act as columns to support the roof.

At the far east end is a viewpoint. From here we had a spectacular view of the Parthenon and Athens. Another popular viewpoint is from Areopagus (Mars Hill), it is located next to the main entrance and has a stunning view of the Acropolis.

When
Nov - March: 8am - 5pm
April - Oct: 8am - 7pm

Price
Nov - March: 10 Euro
April - Oct: 20 Euro
Note: Some eligible people get free entry. For example, if you are from the EU and are under 25 you get free admission

Plaka Old Town

On the way down the North Slope of the Acropolis we found the vibrant old town of Plaka. Street art, vegetation and historic buildings beautify this area. The narrow alleyways were full with outdoor dining. There are so many food options that we found it hard to decide.

Eventually we found an authentic family restaurant called Old Tavern Of Pfarrer. It was reasonably priced and the quality of food was exceptional. After we had a delicious ice cream at Arte, a small cup with 2 flavours cost us 2.50 euros.

How to get from the city to the ferry port?

The next morning we booked a Taxi through Uber at 6am. It arrived quickly, cost 15 Euro and the trip took about 20 minutes. Alternatively you can get the M1 train (16 minutes) or line 40 bus (40 minutes), both methods cost 2 Euro.

An Afternoon In Athens