3 day itinerary for Athens

Itinerary

Athens is a fantastic city with a rich history, vibrant culture, and plenty of activities that will keep both you and your 13-year-old engaged. Let’s dive into a fun-filled 3-day itinerary that avoids starting with the Acropolis!

## Day 1: Exploring the Heart of Athens

Morning:

• Breakfast at a Local Café: Start your day with a delicious Greek breakfast. Try a traditional bougatsa (a pastry filled with custard or cheese) and a strong Greek coffee or a refreshing frappé.
• Visit the National Archaeological Museum: This museum is a treasure trove of ancient artifacts. It’s a great way to kick off your trip, as it gives context to the history you’ll see later. Your teen will love the impressive sculptures and the story behind them!

Afternoon:

• Lunch in Exarchia: Head to the vibrant neighborhood of Exarchia for lunch. There are plenty of casual eateries where you can grab a delicious souvlaki or a fresh Greek salad.
• Stroll through the National Garden: After lunch, take a leisurely walk through the National Garden. It’s a lovely green space where you can relax, and there’s even a small zoo! Perfect for a little downtime.

Evening:

• Dinner in Plaka: Make your way to Plaka, the charming old neighborhood of Athens. Enjoy dinner at a taverna with outdoor seating. Try some local dishes like moussaka or pastitsio.
• Explore the Streets of Plaka: After dinner, wander through the picturesque streets of Plaka. The atmosphere is magical at night, with twinkling lights and lively shops. Don’t forget to grab some gelato!

## Day 2: Ancient Wonders and Modern Vibes

Morning:

• Breakfast at your hotel or a nearby café.
• Visit the Acropolis: Okay, now it’s time for the Acropolis! Go early to beat the crowds and the heat. The Parthenon is a must-see, and your teen will love the stories of ancient gods and heroes. Don’t forget to take lots of photos!

Afternoon:

• Lunch at the Acropolis Museum Café: After exploring the Acropolis, head to the Acropolis Museum. The café has a great view of the Parthenon, and you can enjoy a light lunch there.
• Explore the Acropolis Museum: This museum is fascinating and interactive, with many exhibits that will engage your teen. The glass floor showing the ruins below is particularly cool!

Evening:

• Dinner in Monastiraki: Head to Monastiraki for dinner. This area is bustling with energy and has plenty of options. Try a place that serves gyros or kebabs.
• Visit the Monastiraki Flea Market: After dinner, explore the flea market. It’s a fun place to shop for souvenirs, and your teen might enjoy hunting for unique finds!

## Day 3: Culture and Adventure

Morning:

• Breakfast at a local bakery. Try some fresh bread or pastries!
• Visit the Ancient Agora: This was the heart of ancient Athens. Walk around the ruins and check out the Temple of Hephaestus. It’s less crowded than the Acropolis but equally impressive!

Afternoon:

• Lunch in the Thissio area: There are some great spots with views of the Acropolis. Enjoy a leisurely lunch and soak in the atmosphere.
• Take a Funicular to Mount Lycabettus: After lunch, take the funicular up to Mount Lycabettus for stunning panoramic views of the city. It’s a bit of an adventure, and your teen will love the ride!

Evening:

• Dinner in Kolonaki: Head to the upscale neighborhood of Kolonaki for dinner. There are plenty of trendy restaurants to choose from. Try some modern Greek cuisine!
• Catch a Sunset: If you have time, find a nice spot to watch the sunset over the city. It’s a beautiful way to end your trip!

Tips:

• Transportation: Consider getting a public transport pass for easy travel around the city. The metro is efficient and connects you to most major sites.
• Stay Hydrated: Athens can get hot, especially in the summer, so keep water handy!
• Engage Your Teen: Involve your 13-year-old in planning some activities or choosing meals. It’ll make the trip more enjoyable for both of you!

I hope this itinerary helps you have an amazing time in Athens! Enjoy your adventure! 🌞🏛️