3 Days in Athens, Greece | A Photographer’s Guide by Jennifer Lind Schutsky
I had never been to Greece before this trip and I knew I wanted to see Athens and all the famous historical sites!
Athens is where mythology meets modern life — a city filled with golden light, whitewashed marble, and endless stories waiting to be captured. Whether you’re a travel photographer, a curious explorer, or both, here’s how to spend three unforgettable days in Athens with your camera (and your curiosity) in hand.
These are some of my favorite and best photo spots in Athens…
where to stay in Athens
What Photography Gear to Pack for Greece
Before we dive in, here’s what I recommend bringing as a travel photographer:
DSLR or Mirrorless Camera – great for architecture and low light at golden hour.
Wide-Angle Lens (16–35mm) – perfect for capturing the full scale of the Acropolis or Parthenon. I used my fisheye lens for bigger impact on the sites.
Prime Lens (35mm or 50mm) – for portraits, details, and everyday street photography.
iPhone with Lapse or Portrait Mode – great for on-the-go captures or when you’re exploring narrow streets.
Charger for Batteries & extra SD Cards – because every corner of Athens is photogenic.
Suggested Itenerary (we did most of the things on my list!)
Day 1: Ancient Athens & Sunset Views
Breakfast: Bougatsa Thessaloniki (Psirri)
Start your day the Greek way with a bougatsa — a warm filo pastry filled with custard or cheese — and a strong coffee. Around €4–5 total.
Morning: Acropolis & Parthenon (€20)
Arrive early (8:00 AM) to beat the crowds and harsh light. This UNESCO World Heritage site offers some of the most iconic photography opportunities in Greece — from the Parthenon’s columns to the sweeping city views below.
Late Morning: Temple of Olympian Zeus (€6)
Just a short walk away, this massive temple once housed a statue of Zeus himself. Even with only a few columns remaining, it’s a dream for architectural shots.
Lunch: Kostas Souvlaki (Monastiraki)
Grab a quick, delicious pita wrap (€3–5) — because nothing fuels exploration like souvlaki.
Afternoon: Ancient Agora (€10)
Wander through the birthplace of democracy. The Temple of Hephaestus here is one of the best-preserved temples in Greece — ideal for symmetrical compositions and texture studies.
Evening: Monastiraki Flea Market & Dinner at Ta Karamanlidika tou Fani
Photograph street vendors, antique finds, and the colorful chaos of Monastiraki. Then unwind with meze platters and Greek cheeses (€8–10 per person).
🎨 Day 2: Museums, Culture & Creative Corners
Breakfast: Nancy’s Sweet Home (Psirri)
Order a galaktoboureko (custard pie) and coffee (€4–5).
Morning: New Acropolis Museum (€15)
Photograph the marble sculptures and ancient relics in minimalist modern light — the contrast between old and new is stunning here.
Lunch: Lefteris O Politis (Omonia)
Authentic gyro wraps (€5–6) that make the perfect midday break.
Afternoon: National Archaeological Museum (€12)
Home to the Mask of Agamemnon and breathtaking bronze sculptures — ideal for macro or detail photography.
Evening: Stroll through Plaka & Dinner at Epirus Tavern (Varvakios Market)
Capture the pastel-colored facades and winding cobblestone streets of Plaka. End your day with local favorites like lamb stew or roasted chicken (€8–10).
🌿 Day 3: Art, Gardens & Local Life
Breakfast: Stani Dairy Bar (Omonia)
Try traditional Greek yogurt with honey or loukoumades (€4–5).
Morning: Benaki Museum (€12)
Explore Greek art from ancient to modern times. Don’t miss the Byzantine icons — the lighting here is perfect for moody editorial shots.
Lunch: Feyrouz (Monastiraki)
Mediterranean street food with a twist — falafel wraps and manakish (€5–7).
Afternoon: Temple of Olympian Zeus (if missed Day 1) & National Garden
Stroll through the National Garden, a calm, photo-worthy break filled with locals, statues, and botanical beauty — all free to enjoy.
Dinner: Diporto (Athinas Street)
Hidden beneath the street, this old-school tavern serves simple, soulful Greek meals (€8–10). Bring your low-light lens for that authentic local ambiance.
Quick Cost & Highlights Summary:
Acropolis & Parthenon: €20
Temple of Olympian Zeus: €6
Ancient Agora: €10
New Acropolis Museum: €15
National Archaeological Museum: €12
Benaki Museum: €12
Free: Plaka, Monastiraki, and the National Garden