Overview
Explore the heart of Athens, including a private, guided visit to the Acropolis.
Journey to the city centre via a scenic drive through the picturesque Marinas of Zea and Microlimano. This tour will take you to all the must-see sights of Athens: The Acropolis, Agora, Stoa Attalus, and the Monastiraki area. This tour is not all history, however. You will have lots of time to relax in the Plaka--shop, eat, shop, people watch, and shop.
Begin your tour at the Acropolis, one of the most photographed and recognizable hills in the entire world. The Acropolis dates from the 5th century B.C., when Athens set the tone for civilization in Europe. On the sacred rock of the Acropolis, the monuments date from the prehistoric period to the end of antiquity. Accompanied by your guide, you will walk up the uneven footpath leading to the summit. Sights include the Propylaea, the Temple of Apteros Niki, the Erectheum, and the architectural triumph of the Parthenon.
After your guided visit to the Acropolis, you will walk the short distance to Thesseion, a temple dedicated to Hephaistos, the god of fire and the patron of craftsmen, and Athena, the goddess of wisdom, war, arts, and justice. Situated on the western edge of the Agora, it is the best preserved of the ancient temples.
You will then visit the heart of the Agora, a single architectural complex that consists of a vast rectangular court surrounded by colonnades. In the past, the Agora served as a political, cultural, and religious center. Athenians would gather on a daily basis, not only to buy and sell their goods, but also to learn the news, to criticize the government, to debate issues or simply to gossip.
Your journey of discovery will also include a stop at the Stoa of Attalus. This two-story building was donated to the city of Athens by Attalos III, King of Pergamos. It is thought to have been an ancient shopping center that housed 21 shops on each of its floors.
You will then have some free time to visit the Monastiraki area, or Flea Market. Here, you will have the chance to immerse yourself in the bustle of the marketplace and browse through vibrant displays boasting an enormous array of treasures. Or, choose to just relax and enjoy some refreshments at a local cafe.
The extended time of this tour allows for a late afternoon transfer to your cruise ship or Athens area hotel.
- The Acropolis may only be accessed by walking uphill. It is a strenuous walk and you must be in good physical condition. There is a pathway, but there are also steps near the top. Keep in mind that the weather may be very hot during the summer.
- Groups of 2 people will be transported in a pre-booked Mercedes taxi. Please note that while the vehicles are used primarily for private tours and transfer services, it is the law for the meter to be on and for the vehicle to have a taxi sign on top. You will not be expected to pay the meter.
- Please note that the Sunday Supplement also applies to the following Public Holidays in 2020: January 1; March 2nd; March 25th, April 17th-19th; May 1st; June 8th; August 15th; October 28th and December 25th and 26th.
- Supplement is per group and not per person.
- Please note that this service does not include pickup or drop-off at hotels near the airport or the Lagonissi or Sounion area, including the Sofitel, Holiday Inn, Grand Resort Lagonissi, Plaza Anavyssos, and Grecotel. You must request a special rate if you need transfers to/from here. Please call us at 888-355-0220 to request a price!
Days offered: 7 days a week
Departures:- 08:30 AM, duration: 7.5 hours Feel free to tell your guide if you wish to return early.
