Exploring the rich cultural tapestry of Athens has never been easier. This comprehensive tour offers visitors a chance to uncover the city’s iconic landmarks, savor its renowned culinary delights, and indulge in its renowned wines. From the awe-inspiring Acropolis to the panoramic vistas of Lycabettus Hill, this experience provides a seamless blend of history, gastronomy, and breathtaking sights. Whether you’re a history buff or a food enthusiast, this tour promises to leave you with a deeper appreciation for the vibrant spirit of Athens. Intrigued? Let’s dive further into the details that make this tour a must-experience for anyone seeking an immersive Athens adventure.
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Key Points
- This 6-hour private group tour offers a comprehensive exploration of Athens’ top attractions, including the iconic Acropolis, Lycabettus Hill, and Syntagma Square.
- The tour includes a traditional Greek lunch and wine tasting, providing an immersive cultural experience that complements the sightseeing.
- Highlights include 2 hours at the Acropolis, a 30-minute photo stop at Lycabettus Hill, and a 20-minute visit to witness the change of guards at Syntagma Square.
- The tour also features a visit to the Panathenaic Stadium, the only all-marble stadium, and the Athenian Trilogy, showcasing Athens’ intellectual and cultural legacy.
- With free cancellation up to 24 hours in advance and a ‘reserve now, pay later’ option, this tour offers flexibility and convenience for travelers.
Tour Overview and Pricing
The ‘Best of Athens‘ tour is a 6-hour private group experience that covers the key landmarks and cultural highlights of Athens, priced from $382.61 for up to 8 participants.
It offers free cancellation up to 24 hours in advance and a ‘reserve now, pay later’ option.
The tour includes sightseeing at the iconic Acropolis, a photo stop at Lycabettus Hill, and visits to Syntagma Square, the Panathenaic Stadium, and the Athenian Trilogy.
Participants will also enjoy a traditional Greek lunch and wine tasting at the central and flea markets.
Transportation is provided in an air-conditioned van, and Acropolis tickets are included.
While admission fees and lunch aren’t part of the tour price, the experience has received excellent reviews for its content and value.
Itinerary Highlights
The Best of Athens tour covers a range of iconic sights, including 2 hours of sightseeing at the Acropolis of Athens.
Guests will enjoy a 30-minute photo stop and breathtaking city views from Lycabettus Hill, followed by a 20-minute visit to Syntagma Square to witness the change of guards at the Tomb of the Unknown Soldier.
Plus, there is a 20-minute photo stop at the Panathenaic Stadium, and guests will see the Athenian Trilogy, which includes the Academy of Athens, National Library, and National University.
The tour culminates with a 2.5-hour visit to the central and flea markets, where guests can enjoy a traditional Greek lunch and wine tasting.
Acropolis of Athens
Visitors spend approximately 2 hours exploring the iconic Acropolis of Athens, marveling at its well-preserved ancient ruins and learning about its rich history from the knowledgeable tour guide.
The Acropolis, a UNESCO World Heritage Site, is the crowning jewel of ancient Greece, featuring the Parthenon, the Erechtheion, and the Propylaea.
Perched atop a rocky outcrop, the Acropolis offers breathtaking panoramic views of the city below.
The tour guide shares fascinating insights into the architectural and cultural significance of these ancient structures, bringing the site’s history to life.
Guests have ample time to wander the sacred grounds, snap photos, and truly enjoy the legacy of classical Athens.
Lycabettus Hill
After exploring the iconic Acropolis, the tour moves on to Lycabettus Hill, which offers breathtaking panoramic vistas of Athens.
This Roman Catholic chapel-topped hill stands at 300 meters, making it the highest point in central Athens. Guests will have around 30 minutes to admire the sweeping views over the city’s historic landmarks and modern skyscrapers.
On a clear day, one can see all the way to the Aegean Sea. The photo stop at Lycabettus Hill is a highlight of the tour, providing an elevated perspective to appreciate Athens’ unique blend of ancient and contemporary elements.
This scenic viewpoint sets the stage for the next stops on the exploration of the Greek capital.
Syntagma Square
From Lycabettus Hill, the tour continues to the iconic Syntagma Square, the political heart of Athens.
Here, guests witness the change of guards at the Tomb of the Unknown Soldier, a poignant ceremony honoring Greece’s fallen soldiers. The precision and discipline of the soldiers in their distinctive uniforms captivate onlookers.
Syntagma Square is home to the Greek Parliament building, a neoclassical masterpiece that serves as the seat of the nation’s government.
The guide provides insightful commentary, sharing the square’s historical significance and its role in important political events that have shaped modern Greece.
This brief stop offers a glimpse into the country’s proud heritage and the reverence for its national symbols.
Panathenaic Stadium
The tour makes a photo stop at the iconic Panathenaic Stadium, the only stadium in the world built entirely of marble. This historic venue hosted the first modern Olympic Games in 1896 and continues to captivate visitors with its impressive, U-shaped design and timeless grandeur.
Visitors can admire the stadium’s gleaming white marble seating and envision the roar of the crowds during ancient athletic competitions. The guide shares fascinating details about the stadium’s history and its role in reviving the Olympic tradition.
Though the participants only spend 20 minutes at the site, the Panathenaic Stadium’s magnificence leaves a lasting impression, a testament to Athens’ rich cultural heritage.
Athenian Trilogy
Following the photo stop at the iconic Panathenaic Stadium, the tour moves on to explore the Athenian Trilogy – a trio of neoclassical masterpieces that have become symbols of Athens’ intellectual and cultural legacy. The group will visit the Academy of Athens, the National Library, and the National University, each building showcasing the city’s commitment to education and the arts. These impressive structures, with their ornate facades and grand proportions, serve as a testament to Greece’s rich history and enduring influence on Western civilization.
| Building | Architectural Style | Notable Features |
|---|---|---|
| Academy of Athens | Neoclassical | Ionic columns, pediment sculptures |
| National Library | Neoclassical | Impressive reading room, marble columns |
| National University | Neoclassical | Ornate facade, grand staircase |
Food and Wine Experience
After exploring the iconic landmarks, the tour’s food and wine experience awaits participants.
A traditional Greek lunch features a selection of classic dishes, including a fresh Greek salad, two starters such as various dips and dolmadakia, and a main course of either meat or fish.
Complementing the meal is a wine tasting that showcases a variety of red, rosé, and white wines from small Greek producers, including:
- Agiorgitiko
- Moschato Alexandrias
- Syrah, Malagousia, Xinomavro, and Assyrtiko
The wine tasting costs €30 per guest and includes one 750ml bottle per person, providing a delightful opportunity to sample the diverse and flavorful wines of Greece.
Frequently Asked Questions
What Is the Minimum Group Size for This Tour?
The minimum group size for this tour is 1 person. The tour is a private group experience that can accommodate up to 8 participants, so a single traveler can book the tour.
Do I Need to Bring My Own Water/Snacks?
The tour typically provides bottled water, but it’s a good idea for participants to bring any additional snacks or drinks they may want during the 6-hour experience. The tour doesn’t include these, so bringing your own is recommended.
Is This Tour Wheelchair Accessible?
The tour is wheelchair accessible. The tour provider offers transportation in an air-conditioned van and ensures the Acropolis and other sites are wheelchair-friendly. Visitors should communicate any accessibility needs when booking the tour.
Can I Take Photographs During the Tour?
Yes, guests are generally allowed to take photographs during the tour. However, there may be some restrictions or rules regarding photography at certain sites, so it’s best to check with the tour guide before taking photos.
Is There a Discount for Children or Seniors?
Yes, there is a discount for children and seniors on this tour. Children under 12 receive a 50% discount, while seniors aged 65 and above get a 20% discount off the standard tour price.
Recap
This comprehensive tour of Athens offers an unparalleled experience, combining the city’s iconic sights with a delightful culinary and wine journey.
From the grandeur of the Acropolis to the panoramic views from Lycabettus Hill, it’s a captivating exploration of Athens’ rich history and vibrant culture.
The traditional Greek lunch and wine tasting provide a perfect complement, making this tour a must-do for both history enthusiasts and food lovers.
