Planning our Greece trip for next October and trying to figure out how much time Athens actually needs. Everyone seems to say 2 days max, see the Acropolis, eat in Plaka, and get out to the islands. But I feel like there’s more there?
We’re big history nerds and also love just wandering neighborhoods and finding good cheap food. Is there enough beyond the main archaeological sites to fill a third day, or will we just be bored and wishing we’d gone to an island sooner? Thinking about maybe doing a day trip to Cape Sounion if we have the time.
Well, we’re not most people.
The question is do you just want to visit ‘tourist sites’ or really explore Athens?
I get the feeling it’s the latter; so don’t be like most people. The islands can wait; especially in October.
Cape Sounion is gorgeous at sunset; with the Temple of Poseidon perched over the Aegean one of the most dramatic views in Greece. But I’m not sure if it’s really worth a day away from the historical vibes of a living city.
Don’t miss the Ancient Agora. If the Acropolis is the symbol of Athens, the Agora is the story. You can walk the same ground where Socrates taught and where democracy literally happened.
There’s also the National Archaeological Museum; possibly the best museum in Greece.
We tend to do the historical in the morning, before the crowds, then explore the neighbourhoods in the afternoon.
Just be sure to bring good walking shoes.
Michel.
I definitely think 3 full days is a good amount of time for Athens — 2 days would feel rushed to me. Beyond the Acropolis and the main archaeological sites, there’s a lot of atmosphere in the older neighborhoods too. I loved just wandering around places like Plaka, Anafiotika, and Psiri, stopping for coffee and taking things slowly instead of rushing from sight to sight.
And honestly, the evenings were one of my favorite parts. Sitting in a taverna for hours, listening to music, eating mezze, and soaking up the energy of the city felt very ‘Athens’ to me 
If you enjoy history, local neighborhoods, and food, I really don’t think you’ll be bored on a third day.
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What is the problem with the islands in October? Are they closed down or still overcrowded?
Not a problem, but it’s getting late in the ‘season’ so more life to explore in Athens.
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Thanks TravelNotes. I am hoping to visit Athens next year and probably at least one island. Maybe Rhodes.Is late September okay?
Perfect, although it’s not close
Rhodes is a 15-hour ferry from Athens, or three hours by plane.
Michel.
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