We will have 2 or 3 days in Athens. Is 2 days enough to see the highlights of Athens or would you recommend 3 full days? What would you recommend seeing? Bob Haas
Posted by
Camarillo, California
3122 posts
The usual suspects: Parthenon, Agora, New Acropolis Museum, National Archaeological Museum, Benaki Museum, Sunset from the top of Lycabettus Hill, Shopping in the Plaka District on the north side of the Acropolis. Ride the bus out to Sounion Bay to see the temple of Poseidon.
Posted by
Formerly Athens
72 posts
I think you could probably see most of the highlights that Lee mentions in the post above in 2 days, but seeing them in three days would allow you to linger when you find something interesting and in general you would feel a lot less rushed. The Byzantine Museum and the Cycladic Museum are also nice, but you may not have quite enough time to make a visit. Consider dinner in Psyrri for a lively evening. Have a great trip! Katie
Posted by
Vernon, Canada
32213 posts
Robert, Two days would probably be enough if you had a very well organized touring schedule, but if you wanted a more "relaxed" schedule it might be good to allow three days. As the others have said, the Parthenon, Agora and Archeological Museum would be a good start. You might want to pick up a copy of this Guidebook: travelstore.ricksteves.com/catalog/index.cfm?fuseaction=product&theParentId=160&id=400 It provides an excellent description of sightseeing and other information on touring in Athens. Happy travels!
Posted by
Brighton, UK
1388 posts
Robert I agree with the highlights other people have suggested and would add the Keramikos. This is the ancient cemetery of Athens and the origin of our word ceramics. (People were buried in pots.) There are some really nice statues, a small museum with some great exhibits, and a wonderful view of the Acropolis. http://www.panoramio.com/photo/3865102 I'd also make time for a walk up Philopappou, the hill just across from the Acropolis. It has an excellent view of the Acropolis and down to Piraeus. http://tripwow.tripadvisor.com/slideshow-photo/17-the-acropolis-from-the-philopappou-hill-by-travelpod-member-noalarmclocks-athens-greece.html?sid=13871672&fid=tp-17 I'd also vote for spending 3 days in Athens if you can spare them. (But then I'm biased. We spend several weeks a year there!) Cheers Alan