Planning your first trip to Athens? Our local editor shares exactly how to spend 48 hours in the Greek capital, from the Acropolis and Plaka to favourite neighbourhoods, rooftop views, the Athens Riviera and authentic local dining.

Athens has been my home for years, and whenever friends visit for the first time, they usually leave the planning to me. With just 48 hours, there’s no way to see everything, but there is enough time to experience the places I return to time and time again.

From historic landmarks and neighbourhood cafés to favourite restaurants, rooftop views and evenings that stretch well into the night, this is exactly how I’d spend a weekend introducing someone to my city.

Day 1: Ancient Landmarks, Neighbourhoods and Sunset Views

Morning

Whenever I’m showing Athens to friends for the first time, I always begin at the Acropolis Museum. It’s the perfect introduction to the city’s ancient past before making your way up to the Acropolis itself.

From there, wander into Anafiotika, the tiny neighbourhood tucked beneath the Acropolis, where whitewashed houses and narrow laneways feel worlds away from the city below. Afterwards, take your time exploring Plaka and stop for a Greek coffee or freddo. If you’re looking for somewhere a little quieter, Anefani is one of my favourite spots to pause for a while.

Midday

For lunch, I’d head to Koukaki, one of Athens’ most relaxed neighbourhoods. Sitting just beneath the Acropolis, it’s filled with excellent tavernas, cafés and independent shops, yet still feels distinctly local. Book a table at Mani Mani or Sfika, where traditional Greek flavours are given a contemporary touch.

Afternoon

Head back towards the city centre along Panepistimiou Avenue, passing the Academy of Athens, the National Library and the University of Athens, three of the city’s most impressive neoclassical buildings.

Later in the afternoon, make your way up Lycabettus Hill. Whether you walk or take the funicular, the panoramic views across Athens are worth it. Settle in at Prasini Tenta for an aperitif and watch the city slowly change as the sun begins to set.

Evening

As night falls, I’d take friends to Exarcheia, one of Athens’ most interesting neighbourhoods. Independent bars, creative spaces and a lively atmosphere give the area its distinctive character. Start with a cocktail or glass of wine at Warehouse or Sousourada before continuing on to Stepa or Mple Falaina if you’re in the mood to stay out a little longer.

And if a late-night sweet treat is calling, Sorolop’s profiterole is one stop I never skip.

Day 2: Brunch, the Athens Riviera and an Open-Air Cinema

Morning

Nowadays, Athenians take brunch seriously, so I would start the day at Ergon House  where they serve excellent coffee alongside an impressive brunch menu, and there is a grocery store where you can pick up a few local edible items to take home- making it the perfect place to ease into the day.

From there, head to the Stavros Niarchos Foundation Cultural Center. With its landscaped gardens, striking architecture and views towards the Saronic Gulf, it’s one of modern Athens’ standout cultural spaces.

Midday

When the afternoon heat arrives, it’s time to head for the coast. Lake Vouliagmeni offers a refreshing change of pace, with its naturally warm waters surrounded by limestone cliffs. Afterwards, settle in for a long seafood lunch at Ithaki, one of the Athens Riviera’s best-known waterfront restaurants.

Evening

Back in the city, spend your final evening at Cine Thissio. Watching a film beneath the Acropolis is one of those experiences I always recommend to first-time visitors and never tire of myself.

Afterwards, wander through nearby Kerameikos before finishing the night at Technopolis in Gazi, where live music, exhibitions and summer events keep the neighbourhood buzzing well into the evening.

Before leaving Athens, there’s one final stop to make. Pick up a pita gyros from Thanasis or Kalamaki o Elvis, two long-time favourites that continue to draw both locals and visitors.

Main image by Anefani