24 Hours in Athens: A Luxury Yacht Insider’s Guide
Only have a day in Athens? This 24-hour guide takes you from ancient wonders to buzzing neighborhoods, with plenty of delicious bites along the way.
Eastern Mediterranean yachting itineraries have grown in popularity in recent years, with Greece emerging as the standout choice for a summer yachting vacation. Most travelers typically pass through Athens and head straight to the islands. But Athens is a destination in itself and well worth exploring. With easy international connections and a range of marinas in Piraeus, Athens makes a perfect city break that complements life onboard.
As one of the oldest cities in the world, Athens is a Mediterranean capital full of contrasts. You can wander ancient sites and streets, then step into a bustling, cosmopolitan neighborhood. The city offers a variety of experiences, from boutiques to ruins, photogenic neighborhoods to historic squares.
Athens’ sights are beautifully complemented by its evolving food scene. The city offers classic Greek staples alongside international cuisine, found in fine dining establishments, local spots, and markets.
Here’s how to experience 24 hours in Athens, the capital where the roots of Western culture were formed:
Morning: Explore Ancient Wonders
Start the day like a local at Mokka, one of the best spots for traditionally brewed Greek coffee. Near the Athens central market, this lively café lets you sip your strong coffee while watching the city come to life—a perfect introduction to the authentic spirit of Athens.
Before the heat and crowds arrive, head to the Acropolis. Be sure to pre-book tickets, as there is a daily visitor cap. Early morning is the best time to visit, especially in summer. “High city” is the translation of Acropolis, and it overlooks modern Athens as one of the most important archaeological monuments in the world.
Take a privately guided tour to make the most of your visit. Highlights include the Parthenon, Theater of Dionysus, Herod Atticus Odeon, Erechtheion, and the Temple of Athena. Learn about each site and its links to mythology and history. Wrap up you tour at the Acropolis Museum—an air-conditioned refuge filled with priceless artifacts and glass walkways that let you peer straight into the ruins below.
Photos from various sources
Afternoon: Charming Neighbourhoods & Greek Bites
After the tour, you’ll likely be craving a break with refreshments. While at the base of the Acropolis, take time to weave your way through the charming district of Plaka. Meander the narrow streets, admiring the architecture that is now home to boutiques, souvenir shops, and restaurants.
While it’s not particularly known for its fine dining options, you’ll find some excellent, authentic, and traditional restaurants to dine at here. One popular spot in the area for lunch is Ella Greek Cooking, serving up some famous Greek dishes, from Greek salad to warm baked feta and souvlaki.
To walk off lunch, consider a short detour to Anafiotika. This area feels like a slice of the Cyclades, with whitewashed houses draped in bougainvillaea along narrow alleyways. Quieter than Plaka, it is perfect for an afternoon stroll.
If you skipped dessert at lunch, visit one of Plaka’s Lukumades shops. These warm dough balls, drizzled with honey and cinnamon, are unforgettable.
With your sugar boost, take a 15-minute walk to Syntagma Square, the city’s political hub. At its center is the Tomb of the Unknown Soldier, guarded by soldiers in traditional dress who perform a choreographed changing of the guard every hour. Surrounding the square is grand neoclassical architecture, luxury hotels, and shopping.
The square borders the National Garden of Athens, a peaceful oasis that offers afternoon shade from the summer sun. On the other side of the garden is the Panathenaic Stadium. Originally built for the Panathenaic Games and rebuilt for the first modern Olympics, this striking marble stadium invites you to walk its 4th-century track.
Photos from various sources
Early Evening: Golden Hour With a View
While the Greek islands may steal the spotlight with their postcard-perfect sunsets, Athens has its own share of stunning spots to watch the day fade.
A popular place for watching the sunset is atop Lycabettus Hill. It’s the highest point of Athens, providing panoramic views of the city, so if your legs are done for the day, you can head to the top via the funicular. From here, watch the skyline glow with sunset hues, framed by the sea and ancient ruins in the distance.
Back in the city, A for Athens offers a rooftop perch above Monastiraki Square, perfect for sunset cocktails or nighttime skyline views. The location is in the heart of the city and directly opposite the Acropolis, offering you another perspective of the iconic attraction at night, paired with a signature pre-dinner cocktail.
If you are looking for a deeper cultural experience in the capital, there are always plenty of alternative options. Check out the schedule at the city’s Concert Hall, also known as Megaron, where you can catch operas, classical music, theatre, and dance performances. Throughout the summer months, there are also live music events hosted within the garden here.
Photos from various sources
Evening: Tasting Athens, After Dark
If you are joining a yacht here, or departing from one, indulging in a dinner on the water’s edge could be very fitting to close your 24 hours in the city. Down at Piraeus, the port area of Athens, you will find Varaoulko Seaside restaurant. Holding a Michelin star, a table here will deliver a relaxed ambience and port views. Crafted from the freshest local ingredients, the tasting menus highlight the catch of the day—hauled in by boats you can see bobbing just offshore.
For a recommended restaurant back in the heart of the city, book a table at Nolan. This Michelin-starred restaurant, near Omonia Square, puts an innovative Greek twist on Asian cuisine within its small dishes. A stone’s throw from here, you can also find the rooftop garden restaurant of Zillers, another Michelin-starred venue, complementing the views with a take on modern Greek flavours and local seasonal ingredients.
Wherever you choose to dine, finish off your evening by sipping on award-winning cocktails at The Clumsies, full of mixologist expertise. This cocktail bar is on the world’s best 50 list, and along with the stylish interior and friendly staff, makes it the perfect evening venue. For rum-inspired drinks, try out Baba au Rum, another one of the city’s best, with a rum list of around 400 labels. Areas like Monastiraki, Psiri, and Gazi are the go-to for lively bars and clubs for those who want to extend an evening, where the energy of Athens continues.
Photos from various sources
A Day Well Spent
Spending just 24 hours in a city as exciting as Athens may seem ambitious, but with the right itinerary, you can easily experience its charm and attraction highlights. Thanks to the walkable nature of the historic center, you can cover iconic ruins, scenic neighbourhoods, and modern spots all in one day. This itinerary offers the perfect introduction to the Greek capital, just enough to leave you wanting more—perhaps on your return from a Greek island yachting experience?