2 Days in Athens: Complete Acropolis Travel Guide
2 Days in Athens
The Acropolis of Athens is one of the most famous landmarks in the world and a must-see on any trip to Greece. This ancient citadel, perched high above the city, is home to some of the most iconic ruins of classical Greece, including the Parthenon, the Erechtheion, and the Temple of Athena Nike. Whether you’re a history lover or a casual traveler, visiting the Acropolis is an unforgettable experience. This has been on my list of dream destinations for years, and it totally lived up to the hype I had built up in my mind.
Why Visit the Acropolis?
The Acropolis isn’t just a collection of ruins—it’s a symbol of ancient Greek history and culture. Highlights include:
The Parthenon – The most famous temple of the Acropolis, dedicated to Athena, protector of Athens.
The Erechtheion – Known for the Porch of the Caryatids, with six elegant female statues supporting the roof.
The Propylaea – The impressive gateway that welcomes you into the Acropolis.
Temple of Athena Nike – A small but striking temple symbolizing victory.
Practical Tips for Visiting the Acropolis in Athens
Best time to visit the Acropolis: Arrive early in the morning or late in the afternoon to avoid crowds and the midday heat. We bought our tickets for when they open through Get Your Guide.
What to wear: Comfortable shoes with a good grip—the marble stones can be slippery. I cannot tell you how many people were not wearing good shoes. It’s a lot of walking, be prepared!
Tickets for the Acropolis: Buy online to skip long lines. A combination ticket also includes other sites like the Ancient Agora. Again, we bought our ticket through Get Your Guide.
Guided tours of the Acropolis: A licensed guide or audio tour can give context to the mythology and history. We wanted to go at our own pace, so we bought individual tickets.
Bring essentials: Water, sunscreen, and a hat—shade is limited.
Don’t Miss the Acropolis Museum
Just below the hill is the Acropolis Museum, one of the best museums in Athens. Its modern design showcases artifacts from the Acropolis, including the original Caryatids and Parthenon sculptures. Walking across its glass floors, you can even see ancient ruins beneath your feet. We almost skipped the museum, but a neighbor told me not to miss it! Thank goodness it was fabulous and well worth the visit. We bought our tickets through Get Your Guide.
They also have a nice restaurant on site at the museum. We enjoyed a cheese plate with a view of the Acropolis.
Final Thoughts: Is the Acropolis Worth Visiting?
Absolutely. From the sweeping views of Athens to the chance to walk among ruins that shaped Western civilization, the Acropolis is a must-see in Athens. Visiting this UNESCO World Heritage Site is more than sightseeing—it’s stepping into history. It is a definite must if you are a history lover like us.
Heading to Athens? Check out my review of the Grand Hyatt Athens. We also did an amazing food tour that you need to check out. It was a great culinary journey! Athens Food Tour
