Ever since I watched My Big Fat Greek Wedding back in my 20s, I’ve had a healthy obsession with traveling to Greece and Greek culture. I wanted to dance like Toula’s cousins, savor Greek cuisine, and yell “Opa!” without judgment. Fast forward a couple of decades—and a few laugh lines later—and I finally made it to Athens. And let me tell you, it was just as wonderful as I had imagined and well worth the wait! I embraced the 40-year-old approach, with fewer late-night escapades and more focus on sampling the finest feta and kalamata olives. If you're over 40 and planning an Athens getaway, I've got you covered. If you're pressed for time, here's how to enjoy the best of Athens in just 24 hours with options for one-day itineraries.

Getting Around Athens, Greece

Before you dive into Athens’ famous sights and tasty food, let’s talk about how to get around this ancient city without losing your way. Thankfully, navigating Athens can be straightforward, much like finding a good souvenir shop!

The metro system runs 24/7 and has over 50 stations, making it easy to reach popular spots like Syntagma Square and Monastiraki. It is known for being clean and safe. Just a heads up, if you're traveling during peak hours, it tends to get crowded, so be ready to experience Greek culture up close and personal.

Taxis are also available, as is Uber, providing convenient transportation options for travelers. Utilizing these services can be particularly useful if you're traveling late at night when public transportation may be limited or less frequent. You can use the Uber app, which will direct you to the national taxi service.

If you really want to soak in the beauty of the city, then walking is your best option. The city is pedestrian-friendly in many areas, like Plaka and Monastiraki neighborhoods. You'll get in some extra steps along the way, so you won't feel so guilty when you eat more than one gyro, but make sure you wear supportive shoes. That said, cobblestone streets, hilly terrain, and uneven sidewalks can be hard on your feet, so make sure to wear some comfortable shoes and maybe skip the stilettos. You can still be stylish and comfortable without having to wear orthopedic Velcro sneakers.

If you're looking to experience local life, the Athens City Sightseeing Bus is a great option. It provides an easy way to travel between major attractions without the hassle of too much walking. With various stops at key sites, you can plan your own itinerary and focus on what interests you, making it an ideal way to maximize your 24 hours in this lively city. And if you’re over 40, you might want to consider a bus that offers a complimentary nap service between ancient ruin sites.

Where to Stay in Athens for One Night (and Not Regret It Later)

If you’re in Athens for just one night, location is everything. When selecting your accommodation, prioritize comfort, safety, and convenience to ensure that your 24-hour stay is both enjoyable and memorable. Here are a few great areas to consider for your overnight stay:

Plaka: For budget-conscious travelers, the Plaka neighborhood provides a delightful, walkable, and scenic area. It offers convenient access to major attractions, enabling you to explore all the must-see locations within a 24 hour period.

Koukaki: Koukaki is an up-and-coming, enchanting, and quieter neighborhood nestled close to the iconic Acropolis Museum. The streets of Koukaki are lined with boho-chic cafés that offer a cozy ambiance, perfect for sipping on coffee or indulging in freshly baked pastries. It's a wonderful spot to unwind and appreciate the beauty of Athens.

Pro tip for over-40s: Avoid noisy party hostels unless you enjoy 3 a.m. drunken karaoke renditions of “I Will Survive.”

Best Local Foods to Try in Athens: A Foodie's Dream

Prepare your taste buds for a delightful journey through Greek cuisine.

Begin your day with a robust Greek coffee. If you notice coffee grounds at the bottom of your cup, it doesn't indicate a broken filter; in fact, that's what makes Greek coffee unique.

Souvlaki – Souvlaki is a popular Greek dish consisting of small pieces of marinated meat and sometimes vegetables grilled on a skewer. Traditionally, it is made with pork, but it can also be prepared with chicken, lamb, or beef. Souvlaki is often served wrapped in pita bread along with toppings such as tomatoes, onions, and sauces like tzatziki.

Greek Salad (Horiatiki): When they serve you a Greek salad without lettuce on your plate, don't panic; you haven't been served someone else's leftovers! A traditional Greek salad is a colorful masterpiece featuring fresh tomatoes, hefty slabs of feta (not crumbled bits), olives, cucumbers, and onions, but lettuce doesn't make the cut. If you're a salad lover like me, it might take some getting used to, but as the saying goes, when in Rome...or in this case, in Greece, do as the locals do.

Moussaka – A rich, comforting dish that’s basically Greek lasagna. It typically consists of layers of eggplant, minced meat, and béchamel sauce, baked to perfection. You’ll need a digestive walk afterward.

Baklava: Baklava is a rich, sweet pastry made of layers of filo dough filled with chopped nuts, sweetened, and held together with syrup or honey. Flaky, honey-drenched, and totally worth the sugar spike.

Best things to do in Athens in 24 hours

Let’s explore some of the top attractions to see in Athens in one day to ensure you make the most of your 24 hour adventure.

Sample Itinerary 1: Historic Highlights

1. Acropolis Museum: Start your day at this location, where you'll dive into Greek history. Be sure to see the stunning Parthenon marbles, originating from the 5th century BC. The museum is air-conditioned, providing a refreshing break on a warm day in Athens.

   
   

2. The Acropolis: A short hike up leads you to the heart of ancient Greece. It’s uphill, yes, but there’s a paved path and lots of benches. Totally worth the climb for the stunning panoramic views and rich history. The sun can get intense so remember to bring a hat and a water bottle. You might want to consider doing some stretches before and after the ascent; your knees will thank you for it.

   
   

3. Plaka District: Spend the afternoon wandering through this picturesque neighborhood filled with cobblestone streets, artisan shops, and cute cafés. Take time to shop for souvenirs and enjoy a leisurely lunch at a local taverna, soaking up the vibrant scene and people-watching.

   
   

4. Temple of Olympian Zeus: Just a quick stroll away, marvel at one of the largest temples in the ancient world. These towering pillars have stood for thousands of years, and if they could talk, I'm sure they'd have some fascinating Grecian stories to tell.

   
   

5. Dinner Under the Stars: End your day at a rooftop restaurant with views of the Acropolis. Dining amidst ancient ruins creates a magical moment that embodies the essence of Greece. After all that walking you've earned a special treat!

   

Sample Itinerary 2: Culture and Caffeine

1. National Archaeological Museum: Start your morning surrounded by the treasures of ancient Greece. Take in the beauty of countless artifacts and sculptures that showcase the country’s rich heritage.

   
   

2. Coffee Break: Stop at a nearby café for a quick yet revitalizing coffee break. Just remember, over 40 is when your coffee needs coffee to keep up with you!

   
   

3. Psiri District: Explore the trendy boutiques and vibrant street art in this artsy neighborhood. You’ll feel at home in a place bustling with creativity.

   
   

4. A Modern Twist: For lunch, book a table at Funky Gourmet, where the creative dishes will both intrigue and inspire you.

   
   

5. Evening Stroll: After dinner, wander through Syntagma Square. Take a moment to appreciate and capture the traditional changing of the guard, a spectacle full of history. Just a reminder, if you're over 40, embrace the relaxed pace and savor each moment rather than rushing to see everything!

Athens Awaits You!

Athens is brimming with history, tantalizing food, and vibrant energy. Exploring Athens in 24 hours is totally doable—and downright enjoyable—when you plan it with your fabulous 40+ self in mind. This city invites exploration and discovery, allowing you to experience its charm within just a day. Whether you delve into its historical sites or indulge in culinary delights, rest assured that Athens offers a 24-hour adventure worth every moment.

This journey reminds you that age is simply a number; your adventurous spirit is what truly matters. You don’t have to see everything to fall in love with the city. All you need is good food, a sensible pair of walking shoes, and you can appreciate the ruins at your pace. So go ahead, Greece is waiting for you! Opa!

Have you been to Athens? Drop your favorite spot in the comments below or share this guide with a fellow traveler!

Looking for more travel advice?

Check out my blogs on Rome in 48 Hours and Planning a Stress Free European Vacation

Please comment, like, and share this post!

You'll find links to some of my favorite Amazon products for travel, so feel free to take a look!

As an Amazon Associate, I earn from qualifying purchases.