Athens sites, 3 hrs?

[kittyluvrnurse]

Best suggestion of what to see or do in 3 hrs? Acropolis area? Pre cruise. We get there late the night before...

 

 

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[cruisemom42]

Only 3 hours? What time does your ship depart that you have to leave Athens so early?

 

You won't have time to do much more than the Acropolis plus maybe a quick look around the Plaka (if you are into shopping; lots of souvenir tat, not my taste) or visit the Greek Agora at the foot of the Acropolis, which I find much more interesting.

 

If your ship isn't leaving until later in the afternoon, there's no reason to leave Athens early -- it's only about 20-30 minutes to the port by taxi.

[kittyluvrnurse]

My hubby does not want to stay in Athens longer than 1pm then head to port. I'm time budgeting the am... Breakfast then touring then lunch/quick shopping

 

 

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[cruisemom42]

Just seems a shame to come so far and then see so little of one of the world's great ancient capitals. :( You will have plenty of time to get to (and enjoy) the ship -- make the most of your time in Athens!

[kittyluvrnurse]

Oh I know, but work is work unfortunately... And so is having a 6 yr old, who isn't joining. Just want tips to maximize time

 

 

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[cruisemom42]

Get over to the Acropolis early, before it opens, and purchase a ticket. Be the first ones in and enjoy the relative uncrowdedness (also avoids the heat of the day). Budget an hour here.

 

Exit the Acropolis and follow the path down and into the Greek Agora. Spend another hour here, including seeing the small but meaningful on-site museum. The Agora is included in the ticket you'll buy for the Acropolis (it includes 5-6 sites).

 

Walk the short distance to the Acropolis museum -- it is right beside the Acropolis, the new modern building is clearly visible from the top. Spend your last hour here.

 

It sounds like from what you're saying, you have already budgeted time for lunch and shopping in the Plaka. If not, then I guess that is your third hour instead of the Acropolis museum.

 

Download Rick Steves' podcasts for tours of at least the first two sites (maybe by now he has one for the museum also). There is very little signage except for in the museums. Having some kind of guidebook or audioguide is a must.

[Lam8]

Hi we also have 3 hours. Arriving at Athens airport on a Tuesday at 10:40 and flying to Santorini at 15:35. Any suggestion on what we would be able to in the time before we need to check in. Cruising after we have been to Santorini from Istanbul. Thanks for your help