The Greek Essentials – Full Day Highlights of Athens

Highlights

  • Discover Athen's cultural sites

  • Learn about myths and legends of Ancient Greece

  • Wander through the New Acropolis Museum

  • Walk along the Agora

  • Explore the oldest district in the city, Plaka

  • Immerse yourself in local life at the Monastiraki flea market

  • Visit the marbled Panathenaic Stadium

Summary

Explore the highlights of both Ancient and Modern Athens in one single, magical, day

Tour info

Duration
8 hours
Group Size
10
Pricing (From)
Commentary
English
Meeting Point

123 Main St, Main St, Kings County, New York, 11217, United States

Dropoff location

Why take this tour?

If you only have a short amount of time in Athens and want to see as much as possible in one day, then this highlight tour is the one for you. On your private full day tour, you will:

 - Discover Athen's cultural sites, including the remains of the Temple of Zeus and the iconic Acropolis
 - Learn about myths and legends of Ancient Greece
 - Wander through the New Acropolis Museum, discovering the beautiful art and architecture
 - Walk along the Agora, the heart of classical Athens, and learn about the origins of democracy
 - Enjoy a classical Greek lunch, at a place recommended by your guide (price not included in tour)
 - Explore the oldest district in the city, Plaka
 - Immerse yourself in local life at the Monastiraki flea market
 - Visit the marbled Panathenaic Stadium, constructed for the first modern Olympic Games

Classical Ruins
 
With your expert guide you will discover the city’s most important cultural sites, including the colossal remains of the Temple of Zeus and the Acropolis, a UNESCO world heritage site. On the plateau of the Acropolis you will find the awe-inspiring heights of the Parthenon pillars, gaze on the beautiful female forms of the Cartyid columns, discover on some of the earliest theatres known to man and enjoy panoramic views over the city. Your guide will explain the central role these monuments, and more, played in classical society and immerse you in the myths and legends of Ancient Greece.

Archaeological Wonders
 
After wandering the Parthenon you will visit in the spectacular New Acropolis Museum. Here you will learn firsthand the artistic wonders that once adorned the monuments of the Acropolis. You will also wander through the Agora, the heart of classical Athens. Once a bustling marketplace, in these now peaceful ruins you’ll walk in Socrates’ footsteps amongst classic temples and Byzantine churches, learning how Athens became the birthplace of democracy.

Thriving Capital
 
Following a lunch of local cuisine, you will explore bustling Plaka, the oldest district in the city. Sometimes called “the neighbourhood of the gods”, Plaka is known for its winding alleyways and scenic shopping. Immerse yourself in local life at the Monastiraki flea market, before venturing to the grand Syntagma square, home to the Greek Parliament. Watch the presidential guards, in their famous skirted costumes, and be led by your guide through the natural beauty of the National Gardens.

Finally, you will also visit the stunningly marbled Panathenaic Stadium. Constructed for the first modern Olympic Games in 1896, this immense structure is a strong reminder of the continual legacy of ancient Athens in the modern day.

What’s included?

  • A private, skip-the-line, tour of the UNESCO World Heritage Acropolis and New Acropolis Museum

  • A friendly, professional tour guide for your own private group

  • Plenty of time to take photos of your favourite places

  • Food and drink, although your guide will be happy to recommend local favourites along the way

  • Cost of hotel pick up/drop off. Your guide will accompany you in a taxi or by public transport (if required)

  • Gratuities (optional)

Things to know

Before you book

  • No transport costs are included. Your guide will help you get around on the day

  • This is a walking tour

Before you go

  • Please bring comfortable walking shoes

  • Please bring any medical requirements you need throughout the day

  •  In summer, please remember to bring a hat, sunscreen and plenty of water

Covid Policy

  • Hand sanitizer available to travelers and staff
  • Social distancing enforced throughout experience
  • Gear/equipment sanitized between use
  • Transportation vehicles regularly sanitized
  • Guides required to regularly wash hands

Cancellation Policy

    Up to 24 hours before the beginning of the activity: full refund Less than 24 hours before the beginning of the activity or no-show: no refund

About operator:

Travel Curious, based in Shoreditch/London, researches, creates and owns immersive, cultural tours and experiences in cities throughout the world. We provide our tours and experiences as a service to the travel industry and are privileged to name some of the biggest global brands as our partners