Uncover the captivating history and vibrant culture of Athens through a private sightseeing minibus tour. This personalized experience whisks you away to iconic landmarks, immersing you in the city’s timeless charm. From the awe-inspiring Acropolis to the impressive Acropolis Museum, each stop unveils a new layer of the Greek capital’s rich legacy. But the journey doesn’t end there – savor an authentic Greek lunch while drinking in stunning views from the Stavros Niarchos Foundation Cultural Center. With a focus on small groups and customized itineraries, this tour promises an unforgettable exploration of Athens’ treasures. Intrigued? Let’s dive deeper into the remarkable sights and experiences that await.
Key Points
- This 6-hour private minibus tour of Athens covers major landmarks like the Acropolis, Acropolis Museum, Temple of Olympian Zeus, and Panathenaic Stadium.
- The tour includes a 1-hour lunch break at the Stavros Niarchos Foundation Cultural Center, offering a chance to experience authentic Greek cuisine and scenic views.
- Visitors can explore the Acropolis and its architectural masterpieces, such as the Parthenon, and gain insights into ancient Greek history and culture.
- The Acropolis Museum visit provides an in-depth understanding of the artifacts and sculptures from the Acropolis site.
- The tour offers flexibility, with optional stops at Plaka’s historic neighborhood and photo opportunities at the National Library of Greece and Presidential Palace.
Tour Overview
This 6-hour Athens Private Sightseeing Minibus Tour with Lunch whisks travelers on an immersive journey through the city’s iconic landmarks and hidden gems.
Priced from $292.68 per group (up to 3 participants), the tour offers the convenience of free cancellation up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund.
With personalized pickup from your accommodation or cruise ship port, you’ll explore the Acropolis, the acclaimed Acropolis Museum, and other must-see sites like the Temple of Olympian Zeus and the Panathenaic Stadium – the venue for the first modern Olympics.
Along the way, you’ll enjoy a 1-hour lunch break at the Stavros Niarchos Foundation Cultural Center, as well as optional shopping and dining in Plaka.
Itinerary Highlights
The tour begins with an 80-minute visit to the iconic Acropolis of Athens, showcasing impressive monuments like the Parthenon.
Afterwards, visitors spend 1 hour exploring the acclaimed Acropolis Museum, considered the 5th-best museum globally.
The itinerary then includes a 30-minute stop at the Temple of Olympian Zeus, which requires an additional entrance fee.
Next, the group makes a 20-minute photo stop at the Panathenaic Stadium, site of the first modern Olympics in 1896.
The tour also includes a scenic 20-minute stop at Mount Lycabettus and a 1-hour lunch break at the Stavros Niarchos Foundation Cultural Center.
Acropolis of Athens
The Acropolis of Athens, an iconic ancient citadel, forms the centerpiece of this private sightseeing tour, where visitors can marvel at its impressive monuments like the renowned Parthenon for 80 minutes.
The tour offers a chance to:
- Explore the grand architectural masterpieces, including the Parthenon, Propylaea, and Erechtheion, that have stood witness to Athens’ rich history.
- Gain a deeper understanding of the site’s significance as the spiritual heart of ancient Greece and a UNESCO World Heritage Site.
- Capture stunning panoramic views of the city from the elevated vantage point, providing a unique perspective on the grandeur of this ancient wonder.
This in-depth experience at the Acropolis sets the stage for the rest of the captivating private tour.
Acropolis Museum
After exploring the grand Acropolis, the tour continues to the acclaimed Acropolis Museum, where visitors can enjoy the museum’s impressive collection for 1 hour.
The Acropolis Museum is considered the 5th-best museum globally, housing a vast array of artifacts and sculptures from the Acropolis. Guests will have the chance to view the museum’s remarkable exhibits, which provide invaluable insights into ancient Greek history and culture.
The museum’s architecture, designed by renowned Swiss architect Bernard Tschumi, seamlessly integrates the excavation site with the exhibits.
With an entrance fee of 15 Euros, the Acropolis Museum offers an enriching and enlightening experience that complements the Acropolis visit.
Lunch Break
Typically, the tour includes a 1-hour lunch break at the Stavros Niarchos Foundation Cultural Center, allowing participants to sample traditional Greek cuisine and enjoy the local culture.
This scenic waterfront venue offers:
- A variety of authentic Greek dishes, from classic moussaka to fresh seafood.
- The opportunity to savor local wines and beverages while taking in the panoramic views.
- A chance to relax and recharge before continuing the sightseeing adventure.
The lunch break provides a welcome respite from the morning’s explorations, giving travelers a chance to refuel and experience a more leisurely aspect of Greek life before resuming the tour.
Optional Stops
Along With the main sights, the tour also includes optional stops at Plaka, where participants can spend 40 minutes exploring the historic neighborhood‘s shops and dining options.
Plus, there are stops at the National Library of Greece and the Presidential Palace, both offering 15-minute photo opportunities.
These optional stops allow tour-goers to get a more well-rounded experience of Athens beyond the major landmarks.
While not part of the core itinerary, these additional stops provide a chance to take in the local atmosphere, browse unique shops, and capture memorable photos of notable buildings.
The flexibility of the tour ensures that participants can customize their experience to align with their interests and preferences.
Important Information
There are a few important details to keep in mind for this Athens private sightseeing tour. The Acropolis Museum charges an entrance fee of 15 Euros, and the Acropolis multi-ticket, which provides access to several sites, costs 30 Euros.
Operating hours vary, with the Acropolis Museum open from 8 AM to 8 PM, and the Acropolis itself open from 8 AM to 7 PM in the summer and 8:30 AM to 3 PM in the winter.
Some additional things to note:
- The tour is closed on major holidays, including January 1st, March 25th, May 1st, October 28th, Christmas Day, and Boxing Day.
- Comfortable, athletic shoes are recommended due to the slippery conditions at the Acropolis.
- The driver can’t escort you inside the sites, so you’ll explore them on your own.
Booking Details
Flexible booking options are available for this Athens private sightseeing tour, allowing travelers to reserve now and pay later. Customers can check availability and confirm starting times for the tour on the booking platform.
The tour can accommodate up to 3 participants per group, with pickup service included from their accommodation or cruise ship port. There’s a small extra fee for hotels in the Attica region.
Visitors can easily cancel their reservation up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I Bring My Own Food and Drinks on the Tour?
The tour does not provide meals or snacks, so passengers are welcome to bring their own food and drinks. However, it’s best to check with the tour operator for any specific policies or restrictions regarding outside food and beverages.
Does the Tour Include Entrance Fees for All Sites?
The tour does not include entrance fees for all sites. Visitors must pay additional fees to enter the Acropolis Museum (€15) and the Acropolis multi-ticket (€30) which grants access to multiple ancient sites.
Are Children Allowed on the Tour?
Children are allowed on the tour. The tour is suitable for families, and children of all ages can participate. Infants may require a child car seat, which can typically be arranged with the tour operator.
Can I Request a Specific Diet or Food Allergy Accommodation?
Yes, the tour provider can accommodate dietary requests or food allergies. Guests should notify the company in advance so they can make the necessary arrangements for the lunch at the Stavros Niarchos Foundation Cultural Center.
Is There an Option to Extend the Tour Duration?
Yes, the tour’s duration can be extended. Customers can request an extended tour to explore additional sights or spend more time at specific locations. Additional fees may apply for the extended duration.
Recap
This private sightseeing minibus tour of Athens is an excellent way to experience the city’s rich history and culture.
Visitors will explore iconic landmarks like the Acropolis and Acropolis Museum, enjoy a scenic lunch at the Stavros Niarchos Foundation Cultural Center, and have the opportunity to visit additional sites.
With personalized service and a small group, this tour provides a comprehensive and convenient way to discover the wonders of Athens.
