Highlights of Athens 8-h Tour

Imagine starting your day with a personalized tour through the historic city of Athens, where your own personal chauffeur will pick you up from your luxurious hotel or cruise ship. As your private tour begins, you’ll be taken past significant landmarks such as the powerful Tomb of the Unknown Soldier, situated in front of the Parliament House on Constitution Square. You’ll also have the chance to witness the impressive Panathenaic Stadium, where the first modern Olympic Games were held in 1896.

Take in the stunning sights of the Presidential Palace, former Royal Palace, government buildings, and grand residences as you make your way along the scenic Panepistimiou Avenue. Along the way, keep an eye out for the magnificent Catholic Cathedral and the iconic “Neoclassical Trilogy,” comprised of the Academy, University, and National Library. And to top it off, end your private tour with a drive through Omonia Square, soaking in the vibrant atmosphere of this bustling city.

Join our Greece tours and experience the ultimate in luxury travel. Your private chauffeur awaits to chauffeur you to the most iconic landmarks of Greece, starting with the renowned Olympian Zeus Temple and Adrian’s Arch. Prepare to have your breath taken away as you set foot on the Acropolis, the most globally recognized monument.

Explore its rich history and marvel at its majestic structures, including the Parthenon, Propylaea, Temple of Athena Nike, Erechtheion with its Porch of Maidens, and  Mars hill. Immerse yourself in the ancient city of Plaka, known for its charming old-world charm, and visit the Greek ancient agora. Before continuing our journey, take a break and indulge in a delicious home-cooked meal at a traditional Greek restaurant. Join us for an unforgettable experience in the heart of Greece.

Get ready for an unforgettable afternoon with Best Greece Tours as they whisk you away to one of the world’s most renowned museums – the Acropolis museum. Feast your eyes on the exquisite Greek marble and admire the magnificent Acropolis in the backdrop. And that’s not all – brace yourself for some jaw-dropping views from Lycabettus, the highest hill in town, where you can take in panoramic sights of Athens, the bustling port of Piraeus, and the striking Saronic gulf. To cap off your Athens adventure, your personal chauffeur will drop you off at either the cruise terminal or your hotel.

ITINERARY (break-down)

Start:  Join us on a memorable journey as we commence from your hotel in Athens, address in Athens, or the bustling cruise ship pier at Piraeus port. Our path will lead us past numerous captivating locales before reaching the awe-inspiring Acropolis.

• Duration: 20 Minutes average

Stop At The Acropolis:

Embark on an unforgettable journey through Greece by starting at the renowned hill of the Acropolis in Athens. This impressive site serves as the perfect introduction to one of the most influential cities of the ancient world. As you explore the historical hill, you will encounter the grand entrance known as Propylaea. This monumental gateway leads to the sacred area dedicated to Athena, the beloved patron goddess of Athens.

Mnesicles, the architect, used Pentelic marble in the construction of these avant-garde structures. Situated southwest of the Propylaea and safeguarding the main entrance to the Acropolis, stands the impressive Ionian temple of Apteros Nike. This temple has recently undergone restoration and is now dedicated to the goddess Athena Nike. Alongside it, stand the Erechtheion Temple of Poseidon and Athina, and the renowned Parthenon, a majestic temple honoring the virgin goddess Athena.

As you explore the famous Acropolis, you’ll be treated to a bird’s eye view of the spectacular Theater of Dionysus and the grand Odeon of Herodes Atticus. The Theater of Dionysus Eleuthereus, known as the world’s first theater, stands proudly at the base of the Athenian Acropolis. Meanwhile, on the southwest slope, the stunning Odeon of Herodes Atticus, a magnificent Roman theater made of stone, has stood since its completion in 161 AD and was recently restored in 1950.

• Duration: 90 Minutes
• Admission Ticket Not Included

Pass By: Once we’ve explored the magnificent Acropolis, our next destination will be the beloved Melina’s Mercury statue. We’ll then continue down the renowned Herodou Attikou street, which will lead us straight to the Acropolis museum and the majestic Acropolis itself. Along the way, we won’t want to miss the grand Temple of Olympian Zeus and the iconic Hadrian Arch, also known as the Athens Gate.

• Duration: 20 Minutes

Stop At The Temple of Olympian Zeus.

The Temple of Olympian Zeus, known as the Olympieion or Columns of the Olympian Zeus, stands as a mammoth structure in the heart of Athens. Its purpose was to pay homage to Zeus, the leader of the Olympian gods. Work on this grand temple began in the 6th century BC and took a staggering 638 years to complete, during the reign of Roman Emperor Hadrian in the 2nd century AD.

With an impressive 104 colossal columns, it gained recognition as the largest temple in Greece and held one of the most monumental cult statues of the ancient world.

• Duration: 15 Minutes
• Admission Ticket: Not Included

Pass by: Zapeion. The Zappeion Megaron holds a significant place in the cultural history of Greece, as it was generously donated to the state by Evangelis Zappas, a devoted patriot and philanthropist from North Epirus. Zappas’ vision of reviving the essence of ancient Greece and his dedication to promoting the Arts has resulted in the grandeur of the Zappeion today. This remarkable structure serves as a premiere venue for conferences, cultural and scientific exhibitions, as well as sporting events. Boasting expansive exhibition and congress halls totaling 4,546 square meters, as well as a central circular atrium, the Zappeion offers the ideal setting for a myriad of events.

• Duration: 10 Minutes

Stop At Panathenaic Stadium

As we journey through Athens, we’ll have the incredible opportunity to pause for pictures at the iconic Panathenaic Stadium. This historic landmark holds significant meaning as it was the site of the first modern Olympic Games in 1896. Constructed with pristine marble, the Panathenaic Stadium is not only a breathtaking sight, but also a testament to the rich history of Athens. Originally built in 330 BC by the revered Athenian leader Lykourgos, this stadium was specifically designed for the Panathenaic Games.

Fast forward to 1896, and the Panathenaic Stadium was once again in the spotlight, hosting the opening and closing ceremonies of the first modern Olympics. 2004 brought another momentous occasion as the stadium served as an Olympic venue once again. To this day, the stadium marks the finish line for the prestigious Athens Classic Marathon and proudly serves as the final stop for the Olympic flame handover ceremony to the next host nation.

• Duration: 15 Minutes
• Admission Ticket Not Included

Pass By: As you meander through Athens, you’ll be captivated by the magnificence of the city’s notable landmarks, like the glass-encased Runner statue of President Truman and the grand Megaron music hall, which doubles as a conversion center. Don’t miss a stroll through the luxurious Kolonaki district in the heart of Athens.

• Duration: 15 Minutes

Stop At: Mount Lycabettus,

Experience the grandeur of Mount Lycabettus, an awe-inspiring Cretaceous limestone hill that stands tall at 277 meters above sea level in Athens, Greece. Also known as Lycabettus, Lykabettos, or Lykavittos, this impressive landmark towers over the Acropolis, reaching almost twice its height. Its base is adorned with lush pine trees, while its two peaks boast a 19th century Chapel of St. George, a theater, a cafeteria, and a restaurant.

You cannot help but notice this majestic hill, as it rises abruptly from the heart of the city and is visible from every corner. No visit to Athens is complete without marveling at the splendor of Mount Lycabettus. Lycabettus practically dares you to climb it, and inevitably, if you find yourself with some free time in Athens and a decent level of physical ability, you’ll be tempted to take on the challenge. The primary motivation for ascending Lycabettus is to soak in the breathtaking 360° vistas offered from the city’s apex.

• Duration: 15 Minutes

Pass By: Once Lycabettus is reached, the scenic drive will continue through Kolonaki and the city’s significant landmarks, including the war museum, Byzantine museum, and museum of ancient archaeological Cyclades civilization. The route also passes by the national garden, known as the ex-royal garden, before reaching Plateia Syntagmatos, also known as Syntagma Square. It holds great historical significance as it was named after the Constitution that was granted by Otto, the first King of Greece, as a result of a popular and military uprising on 3 September 1843.

• Duration: 20 Minutes

Stop At Hellenic Parliament.

The Hellenic Parliament, also known as Voulí ton Ellínon in Greek, proudly resides in the historic Old Royal Palace overlooking Syntagma Square in Athens. As the ultimate democratic body, it serves as the voice of the people through its elected members.

Visitors can also pay their respects at the Tomb of the Unknown Soldier and witness the revered changing of the guard ceremony performed by the Euzones in front of the former royal palace, now the home of Greece’s Parliament.

• Duration: 15 Minutes
• Admission Ticket Free

Pass By: The renowned Numismatic Museum of Athens, situated in the bustling Attica shopping mall, stands proudly among the city’s other architectural marvels such as the grand Catholic cathedral and the prestigious Academy of Athens. This impressive building is part of a trilogy of neoclassical structures that were established by the Constitutional Decree of March 18th, 1926. Originally meant to be an Academy of Sciences, Humanities, and Fine Arts, it now shares its prestigious grounds with the Kapodistrian University of Athens and the National Library of Greece, the final installment of the “Architectural of Athens” trio, which was completed at the end of the 19th century.

The renowned architect Theophil Hansen masterminded the design of the building, which also features significant landmarks such as the Council of State and the Kolokotronis statue, a powerful symbol of the Greek Revolution of 1821 against the Ottomans. The old parliament house of Athens, now home to the National Historical Museum, sits proudly in Constitution Square, while Ermou Street, the bustling central shopping district of Athens, completes the vibrant scene.

• Duration: 20 Minutes

Stop At Plaka

Experience the charm of Athens’ historic Plaka neighborhood, complete with its idyllic streets, bustling cafes and restaurants, and diverse range of shops! Uncover the city’s best-kept secrets and immerse yourself in the vibrant local culture. Take some time to relax and savor a delicious lunch (not included), and indulge in some retail therapy!

• Duration: 70 Minutes
• Admission Ticket: Free

Pass By: The Metropolis of Athens (central church), Monastiraki square, Flee market, and Theseion.

• Duration: 20 Minutes

Stop At: Agora;

Back in the 6th century BC, the bustling marketplace of Athens was established. This vibrant hub was not only a center for trade and commerce, but also a place for important historical events to unfold. Notably, it was where St. Paul delivered his sermons and Socrates held public debates, during the birth of democracy. However, the agora’s ancient significance doesn’t stop there. In 399 BC, Socrates was famously accused and put to death in its state prison.

This pivotal location, commonly known as St. Paul’s meeting place, served as a crucial gathering point for over eight centuries in Athens. It was the bustling heart of the city, where administrative, commercial, political, and social matters converged. In a sense, all roads led to this central point, where governance, justice, and religion intersected. And in 51 AD, this was also where Apostle Paul made his groundbreaking efforts in spreading Christianity to the Greeks for the very first time.

During that period, around 1000 B.C., the Byzantine church of Agioi Apostoloi, also known as the Holy Apostles, underwent a restoration. One of the must-see sites in the Ancient Agora is the Stoa of Attalos, a grand structure built by King Attalos II of Pergamum in 159 BC – 138 BC. This two-story stoa was where people would gather every four years to witness the Panathenaic Procession. Today, the Stoa houses the Agora Museum, showcasing artifacts uncovered during the reconstruction in 1956.

The Temple of Hephaestus…

… in Greece, the Temple of Hephaestus stands as a remarkably well-preserved testament to classical architecture. Built in honor of Hephaestus, the divine master of fire and craftsmanship, this temple is a shining example of the sophistication and splendor of ancient Greek worship. In contrast, the Church of the Holy Apostles was constructed in the early 10th century as a tribute to St. Paul’s inspiring teachings in the Agora. While it was initially damaged, the church was skillfully restored to its original glory in the mid-20th century. Lastly, the Stoa Basileios, erected in 500 BC, once served as the central hub for regulating matters of faith in antiquity. Tragically, the Goths’ attack on Athens in AD 267 resulted in the near-complete destruction of this important building.

The Odeon of Agrippa, a grand theater constructed in 15 AD, boasts awe-inspiring statues of serpent-tailed Giants and Tritons atop its towering plinths. To this day, two Tritons and a Giant continue to grace the theater, serving as a testament to its rich history. At Tholos, the circular building known as the first parliament, the executive committee of 50 convenes to conduct their important work. Appropriately named “beehive”, Tholos operates seamlessly as a unified unit. Meanwhile, the Great Drain dutifully fulfills its purpose, channeling rainwater from the Acropolis, Areopagus, and Agora directly into the Eridanos River.

• Duration: 45 Minutes
• Admission Ticket: Not Included

Stop At the Acropolis Museum.

In the 21st century, the Acropolis Museum has emerged as one of the most highly-regarded museums worldwide. It boasts a plethora of archaeological wonders from the Acropolis in Athens, making it a prime destination for history enthusiasts. With its expansive size and top-notch quality, this museum stands as a testament to the grandeur of the ancient world and provides an unparalleled glimpse into Greece’s rich past. Whether you are a seasoned traveler or a curious tourist, the Acropolis Museum is an essential stop in this ancient city.

• Duration: 90 Minutes
• Admission Ticket Not Included

Our service has reached its conclusion. We will transport you back to the same location from which we initially retrieved you!

• Transfer offerd; Travelers pickup/drop off is offered.
• Pick up from; We will pick you up from any hotel or apartment in Athens center and Piraeus cruise port at the cruise ship pier!
• Info needed When booking make sure to include the address of your accommodation, or the name of the cruise line and the cruise ship!
• Pick up time; We propose to pick you up at 8 am in order to avoid traffic and crowed at the Acropolis.
• Drop off; We will drop you off at the same place we have picked you up or at any hotel in Athens center or cruise ship pier!

What is Included

• Professional driver with good knowledge of history and culture in Greece
• Transport by air-conditioned vehicle appropriate for the size of your group
• Accommodation is based according to availability (for multiple day tours only)
• Flexible pick up time on request (proposed 08:00AM)
• Free Pick-up from and return to your hotel
• Free Pick-up & drop off from Piraeus cruise port
• Athens Airport transfers or pickup locations outside Athens: arranged on request with surcharge
• First class transport: By Mercedes E-Class or similar; Mercedes minivan or Mercedes minibus according to the size of your party. All new models come with full leather and A/C.
• Road tolls and local taxes
• Our terminal: Leof. Andrea Siggrou 37, 117 43 Athina, Greece.
• Official licensed tour guide for guiding in archeological sites. Available on request with surcharge
• The private tour is 100% exclusive for your party

What is Excluded

• Entrance fees to the archaeological sites and museum
• Wine tasting fee (wine tours)
• Athens Airport transfer: arranged on request with a surcharge
• Gratuities (optional)
• Food and beverage
• Your private chauffeur/guide will discuss a program best suited to your interest and mobile abilities. Option for a professional tour guide with a state license at an extra cost.

Tour Type

• Private tour - Shore Excursion
• Activity level: Moderate
• Departures: Daily

Restrictions

• Due to the high complexity and uncertainty of contemporary transportation, as well as unexpected situations, the planned itinerary can change at any moment and our choices may be affected by any social, economic or environmental phenomena!

Guaranteed Departures

• Best Greece Tours is proud to be the first in the industry to offer Guaranteed Departures . A guaranteed departure means; There is no minimum number of bookings required on a trip to run and that the tour will definitely operate on the day it is scheduled and will not be cancelled. All guaranteed departures will run except in the event of a natural disaster or other similarly disruptive event that is beyond our control. Our current collection of tours can take you to exciting places in Athens and around the world.

How will we use the information you wll give us about you!

• Passenger Detail; We need basic contact details so we can send appropriate booking information to you as well as make sure the supplier can contact you should they need to.
• Flight Details; We will need to know your exact travel details so they can track flight time as well as make sure they get you to and from your destination with no delay.
• Accommodation Details; We need to know your pick-up and drop-off address to ensure the right price and that we know exactly where to meet you or take you.
• Payment Details; We will pass your payment details to our secure payment provider, but we do not see or store any of these details on our website payment details.

Importantant information!

• Dress: religious and memorial sites: shoulders and knee must be covered.
• Terms & Conditions, F.A.Q , Privacy policy & Cookies
• Confirmation will be received at time of booking
• A voucher will be emailed to you with our contact numbers and all necessary information for your tour.
• This is your ticket and proof of purchase. On the day of tour please present a paper voucher in order to redeem your tour/activity.
• Itinerary (break-down)Due to the high complexity and uncertainty of contemporary transportation, as well as unexpected situations, the planned itinerary can change at any moment and our choices may be affected by any social, economic or environmental phenomena!

Persons with Disabilities

• Due to uneven surfaces, certain sites are not recommended for persons with walking disabilities or using a wheelchair. Such sites are the Acropolis, the Temple of Poseidon at Sounion, Mycenae, Delphi and Meteora.
• In all cases, we recommend comfortable flat-solid walking shoes, sunglasses and sunscreen.
• For guests who are full-time wheelchair users a ramp vehicle will be needed. Guests may remain in their wheelchair or scooter for the duration of the excursion. Wheelchair or scooter dimensions are required in order to confirm the correct vehicle!
• Wheelchair or small scooter folding type only. (Please note that disabled passengers must be able to board the vehicle independently or with the assistance of those in their party.)

Opening hours & Admission fees

• Opening Hours: Summer April 1st to October 31st from 08:00 AM to 07:30 PM
• Winter: November 1st to March 31st from 08:30 AM to 03:00 PM
• Free admission fees: Children under 18 & Students from E.U.
• Reduced admission fees: Citizens of the E.U. aged over 65 & Students from countries outside the E.U.

Free admission days

• March 6: In memory of deceased Minister of Tourism & visionary Melina Mercouri
• June 5: Environment international day
• April 18 : International monuments day
• May 18: International museums day
• September 27: International tourism day
• The last weekend of September annually (European Heritage Days)
• National Holidays
• Sundays in the period between 1 November and 31 March
• The first Sunday of every month, except for July, August and September
• NOTE: If the first Sunday is a holiday then the second is the free admission day

Holidays in Greece

• January 1: closed
• January 6: 08:30 AM - 03:00 PM
• Shrove Monday: 08:30AM - 03:00 PM
• March 25: closed
• Good Friday: 12:00 PM - 03:00 PM
• Holy Saturday: 08:30 AM - 03:00 PM
• Easter Sunday: closed
• Easter Monday: 08:30 AM - 03:00 PM
• May 1: closed
• Holy Spirit Day: 08:30 AM - 03:00 PM
• 15 August 15: 08:30 AM - 03:00 PM
• October 28: 08:30 AM- 03:00 PM
• December 25 & 26: closed

• Sedans; Within 24 hrs of travel 100% fee will apply. Outside of 24 hrs a €2 per person cancellation charge will apply.
• Minivan; Within 36 hrs of travel 100% fee will apply. Outside of 36 hrs a €2 per person cancellation charge will apply.
• Minibus 10-20 seats; Within 96 hrs of travel 100% fee will apply. Outside of 96 hrs a €2 per person cancellation charge will apply.
• For all vehicles; No show mean, no refund