Greece 2 Day Itinerary

Day 1: Athens

Athens Itinerary (Approx. 8 hours)

Morning:

  • Breakfast at a Local Cafe: Start your day with a traditional Greek breakfast at one of the many cafes in the Monastiraki area. Try the Greek yogurt with honey and nuts, or bougatsa (cream-filled pastry).

  • Ancient Agora & Temple of Hephaestus: Explore this archaeological site that was once the heart of ancient Athens. The well-preserved Temple of Hephaestus is a must-see.

  • Acropolis: Climb up to the Acropolis, home to the Parthenon and other iconic structures like the Propylaea, Erechtheion, and the Temple of Athena Nike.

Afternoon:

  • Lunch in Plaka: Have lunch at a taverna in the charming neighborhood of Plaka. Try moussaka, souvlaki, or gyro.

  • Acropolis Museum: Visit this modern museum housing many artifacts from the Acropolis. The architecture and exhibits are as impressive as the ancient artifacts.

  • Panathenaic Stadium: Walk to the Panathenaic Stadium, where the first Olympic Games of the modern era were held in 1896.

Evening:

  • Dinner at a RoofTop Taverna: Enjoy a sunset dinner with a view at one of the many rooftop tavernas around Monastiraki or Thisio.

  • Syntagma Square and Nightlife: End your day at Syntagma Square, where you can witness the changing of the guard and enjoy Athens’ vibrant nightlife.

Things to Know:

  1. Athens is hot in the summer (over 30°C/86°F). Carry water and sunscreen.
  2. Most attractions are closed on Mondays. Check before you go.
  3. Many shops and restaurants close for a few hours during the afternoon siesta.
  4. English is widely spoken in Athens.
  5. Tip approx. 10% in restaurants.

Visa Requirements:

For most countries, Greece is part of the Schengen Area. Check if your country requires a visa for travel to Greece and the Schengen Area.

Transportation:

Athens has an extensive public transportation system including buses, trams, and the metro. A 5-day ticket costs €12 and covers all modes of transport. Taxis are also readily available but can be expensive.

Day 2: Santorini

Santorini Itinerary (Approx. 8 hours)

Morning:

  • Ferry from Athens: Take an early morning ferry from Piraeus Port in Athens to Santorini. The journey takes approximately 5 hours.

Afternoon:

  • Explore Fira: Once you arrive in Santorini, head to Fira, the capital of the island. Wander through its cobblestone streets, visit the Archaeological Museum, and enjoy the stunning views.

  • Lunch at a Local Taverna: Have lunch with a view at one of the many restaurants in Fira or Firostefani.

Evening:

  • Sunset in Oia: Take a bus or taxi to Oia, known for its blue-domed churches and stunning sunsets. Spend the evening wandering through the picturesque streets, visiting the ruins of the Venetian Castle, and capturing the perfect sunset shot.

Return to Athens:

  • Ferry Back to Athens: Catch an evening ferry back to Athens. The journey takes approximately 5 hours.