Athens, Greece - 10 Days Itinerary

Arrival & Check-in

Arrive at Athens International Airport (ATH), transfer to your accommodation, and check in.

Settle in and prepare for your Athenian adventure.

Acropolis & Parthenon

Ascend to the iconic Acropolis, home to the Parthenon, Erechtheion, Propylaea, and Temple of Athena Nike.

Marvel at these ancient architectural masterpieces and enjoy panoramic views of Athens.

Wear comfortable shoes. Best visited in the late afternoon to avoid crowds and enjoy the golden hour. Book tickets online to save time.

New Acropolis Museum

Explore the impressive Acropolis Museum, housing artifacts found on the Acropolis site.

The museum is built over existing archaeological ruins, visible through glass floors.

The museum is modern and well-organized. Check for late opening hours on specific days.

Dinner in Plaka

Enjoy a traditional Greek dinner in the charming Plaka district, nestled at the foot of the Acropolis.

Wander through its narrow streets filled with tavernas and shops.

Try moussaka, souvlaki, or fresh seafood. Many restaurants have outdoor seating.

Ancient Agora

Explore the Ancient Agora, the heart of public life in ancient Athens.

See the Temple of Hephaestus, the Stoa of Attalos, and learn about its historical significance.

Included in the Acropolis combined ticket. The Stoa of Attalos houses a museum with fascinating artifacts.

Roman Agora & Tower of the Winds

Visit the Roman Agora, a later market complex, and the well-preserved Tower of the Winds, an ancient meteorological station.

Also included in the combined ticket. Located a short walk from the Ancient Agora.

Lunch & Monastiraki Square

Have lunch in Monastiraki Square, known for its vibrant flea market and street performers.

Enjoy local street food like gyros or souvlaki.

A lively area perfect for people-watching and souvenir shopping.

Explore Psirri

Wander through the trendy Psirri neighborhood, known for its street art, artisan workshops, and quirky cafes. A great place to experience modern Athenian culture.

Discover unique boutiques and art galleries.

Sunset from Areopagus Hill

Witness a beautiful sunset over Athens with views of the Acropolis from Areopagus Hill, a historically significant rocky outcrop.

Can get crowded for sunset. Be mindful of uneven surfaces.

Dinner in Psirri

Enjoy dinner at one of Psirri's many tavernas or modern restaurants, offering a diverse culinary scene.

National Archaeological Museum

Visit one of the world's most important archaeological museums, housing an extensive collection of ancient Greek art and artifacts from prehistory to late antiquity.

Allow plenty of time to explore its vast collections. It's a must-see for history enthusiasts.

Lunch near Syntagma Square

Have lunch in the bustling area around Syntagma Square, the central square of Athens.

Changing of the Guard

Witness the ceremonial Changing of the Presidential Guard (Evzones) in front of the Hellenic Parliament at the Tomb of the Unknown Soldier.

The full ceremony takes place on Sundays, but a smaller one occurs hourly.

The hourly change is less elaborate but still impressive. Arrive a few minutes early for a good spot.

Stroll through National Garden

Relax and enjoy a leisurely walk through the National Garden, a peaceful oasis in the heart of Athens.

Visit the Zappeion Hall and look for shaded paths.

A great escape from the city bustle, especially on a warm day.

Explore Kolonaki

Discover the upscale Kolonaki neighborhood, known for its designer boutiques, art galleries, and chic cafes.

Enjoy a coffee or aperitif.

Dinner in Kolonaki

Dine in Kolonaki, offering a range of stylish restaurants from traditional Greek to international cuisine.

Day Trip to Cape Sounion

Take a scenic drive along the Athenian Riviera to Cape Sounion, home to the ancient Temple of Poseidon.

Enjoy breathtaking views of the Aegean Sea and the dramatic cliffs.

Public buses (KTEL) depart from Pedion Areos in Athens, or you can join an organized tour. Pack swimwear if you wish to enjoy a dip at a nearby beach.

Lunch with Sea Views

Enjoy fresh seafood at a taverna near Cape Sounion, overlooking the beautiful Aegean Sea.

Return to Athens

Travel back to Athens, enjoying the coastal scenery along the way.

Relax & Dinner

Enjoy a relaxed evening and dinner in a neighborhood closer to your hotel after a day out.

Lycabettus Hill & Views

Ascend Lycabettus Hill, the highest point in Athens, for unparalleled 360-degree views of the city, the Acropolis, and the Aegean Sea.

You can walk or take the Funicular.

A beautiful spot for photos. There's a chapel and a cafe at the top.

Ermou Street Shopping

Enjoy some last-minute shopping or browsing along Ermou Street, Athens' main commercial street, or explore charming smaller boutiques.

Farewell Greek Lunch

Savor a final delicious Greek lunch, perhaps trying a dish you haven't yet, or revisiting a favorite.

Free Time & Packing

Enjoy some free time for relaxation, last-minute souvenir hunting, or begin packing for your onward journey.

Transfer to Airport

Transfer to Athens International Airport (ATH) for your onward journey to Peru.

(The next part of your itinerary will cover Cusco, Peru.)

Travel from Athens to Cusco

Begin your journey from Athens, Greece, towards Cusco, Peru.

This will be a long travel day involving multiple flights and layovers. Upon arrival at Alejandro Velasco Astete International Airport (CUZ) in Cusco, you will be met by a pre-arranged transfer to your hotel. The elevation in Cusco is significant (3,400m or 11,200ft), so it's crucial to take it easy to acclimatize.

Drink plenty of water, avoid alcohol and heavy meals, and move slowly. Consider having coca tea, a traditional remedy for altitude sickness. Pre-booking an airport transfer is highly recommended for convenience and safety.

Hotel Check-in & Rest

Check into your hotel in Cusco and take time to rest and settle in after your long journey.

Prioritize relaxation to help your body adjust to the high altitude.

Inform the hotel of your estimated arrival time. Many hotels offer oxygen if needed, which can be helpful for initial acclimatization.

Gentle Evening Stroll & Dinner

Enjoy a light dinner at a local restaurant near your hotel.

Take a gentle stroll around the immediate vicinity of your accommodation, but avoid strenuous activity. Sample some traditional Peruvian cuisine adapted for a lighter meal.

Try a local soup or light chicken dish. Many restaurants in the historic center cater to tourists and are safe for solo diners. Ensure you are aware of your surroundings.

The Textile Workshop Experience

Participate actively in every stage of the creation of Peruvian textiles, examining wool texture, cleaning fibers, and dyeing them.

This immersive experience offers deep insight into a world-famous craft.

This is a wonderful opportunity to learn about traditional Andean weaving techniques. Booking in advance is recommended. Wear comfortable clothing.

Lunch & San Pedro Market

After your workshop, head to the bustling San Pedro Market, a vibrant local market where you can find everything from fresh produce to artisan crafts.

Have a simple, authentic Peruvian lunch from one of the many food stalls (choose wisely for hygiene).

Enjoy the sights, sounds, and smells of local life. Be mindful of your belongings in crowded areas. This is a great place to pick up souvenirs.

Qorikancha & Plaza de Armas

Explore Qorikancha, the Inca Temple of the Sun, which was later incorporated into the Santo Domingo Convent by the Spanish.

Then, wander through the historic Plaza de Armas, admiring the cathedral and colonial architecture.

Entry fees apply for Qorikancha and the Cathedral. Dress respectfully when visiting religious sites. The Plaza de Armas is a great spot for people-watching.

Dinner in Cusco

Enjoy a delicious dinner at one of Cusco's many excellent restaurants.

Choose from traditional Andean cuisine to more modern Peruvian fusion dishes.

Consider restaurants in the San Blas neighborhood for a charming ambiance. Many offer options for various dietary preferences.

Private Tour to Sacred Valley & Machu Picchu (Day 1)

Embark on the first day of your private 2-day/1-night tour.

Today, you will explore the captivating Sacred Valley, visiting Chinchero, the Maras salt mines, Moray terraces, and the Ollantaytambo fortress. You'll travel with a private guide, offering personalized insights into Inca history and culture. In the late afternoon, you'll take a scenic train from Ollantaytambo to Aguas Calientes (Machu Picchu Pueblo), where you'll check into your hotel for the night.

Dinner in Aguas Calientes

After checking into your hotel in Aguas Calientes, enjoy dinner at one of the town's many restaurants.

Your guide can recommend a suitable option.

Machu Picchu Private Tour (Day 2)

Today is the highlight of your trip!

With your private guide, take an early morning bus from Aguas Calientes up to the citadel of Machu Picchu. Explore the magnificent Inca ruins, learn about its history and significance, and soak in the breathtaking views. Your private tour allows for a more personal and in-depth experience.

Wear comfortable walking shoes, bring water, sunscreen, and insect repellent. The entry time for Machu Picchu is strict, so ensure you arrive punctually. Consider bringing a light rain jacket regardless of the forecast.

Return to Aguas Calientes

After your incredible visit to Machu Picchu, take the bus back down to Aguas Calientes.

You'll have some free time for lunch and last-minute souvenir shopping before heading to the train station.

Train & Transfer back to Cusco

Board your train from Aguas Calientes back to Ollantaytambo or Poroy.

From there, a private transfer will take you back to your hotel in Cusco. Enjoy the scenic journey through the Andean landscape.

Relaxation & Dinner in Cusco

After a long and fulfilling day, enjoy a relaxing evening back in Cusco.

Treat yourself to a comforting dinner and reflect on your unforgettable Machu Picchu experience.

Consider trying a Pisco Sour, Peru's national drink, to celebrate your adventure (in moderation, given the altitude).

Morning at Leisure & Shopping

Enjoy a relaxed morning in Cusco.

You can revisit a favorite spot, explore a different part of the city, or do some last-minute souvenir shopping for alpaca products, ceramics, or local art.

Bargaining is common in markets. Check for ethical sourcing when buying alpaca wool products.

Farewell Peruvian Lunch

Savor a final delicious Peruvian lunch in Cusco.

Try a dish you haven't experienced yet, or revisit a favorite.

Cusco offers a wide range of culinary experiences, from traditional to modern.

Transfer to Cusco Airport & Departure

Arrange for a private transfer or taxi to Alejandro Velasco Astete International Airport (CUZ) for your departure.

Allow ample time for traffic and airport procedures.

Confirm your flight details and departure terminal in advance. Be sure to have any necessary documents ready.