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Athens: Acropolis, Parthenon and Museum Guided Tour with Entry Tickets

Athens: Acropolis, Parthenon entry tickets and text guide

Athens: Acropolis, Parthenon Guided Tour with Entry Tickets

Making people happy, this guided tour of both the acropolis museum and the acropolis was perfect our tour guide alexia, also an archaeologist and very knowledgeable, was absolutely wonderful we did the museum first which was in reverse order compared to what most people do which lessened the crowds at both the museum and the acropolis itself. very smart of alexia to do this the walk to the top of the acropolis was easy with multiple stops where alexia would give great history, background, and context. we were at the top in no time and never felt like we had hiked anything especially too steep..

Monday, March 13, 2023 by John (United States) | GYG-AM-TI | Athens: Acropolis & Museum Tour with Optional Entry Tickets

Book this tour you will not regret it. I learned so much about historical Athens but was also given relative information about Athens today. The guide was very knowledgeable and the pace was perfect.

Friday, March 10, 2023 by Gabriela (United States) | GYG-AM-TI | Athens: Acropolis & Museum Tour with Optional Entry Tickets

Thank you for an amazing experience! Anna-Maria was a fantastic guide. She’s very knowledgeable, friendly, and patient. She also timed the tour well to help us avoid the crowds which was really helpful. I’d strongly suggest getting a guided tour for the Acropolis and the museum, there’s so much information that people don’t get to learn by doing it themselves!

Friday, March 10, 2023 by Safwaan (United Kingdom) | GYG-AM-TI | Athens: Acropolis & Museum Tour with Optional Entry Tickets

So much fun! No one else booked so we had a private tour and got to try a lot of food we wouldn’t have on our own. Tons of stops and our guide was amazing. So knowledgeable and funny and answered all of our questions.

Monday, February 20, 2023 by Carly (United States) | GYG-FT | Athens: Small-Group Food Walking Tour with Local Guide

An immersion on history, geography and Greek mythology. Our guide Eva is very knowledgeable and passionate about the history and teach us a lot!

Saturday, February 11, 2023 by GetYourGuide traveler (Brazil) | GYG-AM-TI | Athens: Acropolis & Museum Tour with Optional Entry Tickets

One of the best experiences, the guide was excellent and explained everything with detail, definitely worth the price!

Monday, January 2, 2023 by Mário Manuel Vilamarim (Portugal) | GYG-AM-TI | Athens: Acropolis & Museum Tour with Optional Entry Tickets

We were privileged to have Gregory, a history Professor, passionate about his job, history and art, to be our guide. His impeccable planning of the tour allowed us to have an almost (save for few people) private tour of the Museum which doubled the amazement. His intricate knowledge of every detail was never pedantic, on the contrary had us engaged for more than 4 hours. That we would love the Acropolis, the Museum and all the monument was granted, to have it all explained by Gregory made it memorable and special. Bravo Gregory.

Friday, December 30, 2022 by GetYourGuide traveler (United States) | GYG-AM-TI | Athens: Acropolis & Museum Tour with Optional Entry Tickets

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Private Tours in Athens and Greece

Onoufrios dovletis licensed tourist guide.

Perfect Tour

We have been to Athens, the Acropolis, and the Acropolis Museum several times before, but this time we took a tour with Onoufrios. It was fantastic. He does a wonderful job conveying the historical, Archaeological, and linguistic importance of everything we saw. We loved It and couldn’t recommend him more. Will definitely be back to hire him for other tours.

Excellent Tour Guide

Four of us booked Onoufrios for a 3 day tour of Athens and surrounding areas. He is extremely knowledgeable and truly a fun person to spend time with. Be sure to book the Corinth Canal day which included super driver, George. He treated us like royalty! Look no further. This is the guide that you want. Check out Onoufrios' website.

Seen the best of Athens!

We hired Onoufrios for a private 1/2 day tour of the Acropolis and surrounding areas. He met us on time, and did an amazing job of keeping us away from the crowds while we toured. He was knowledgeable but more importantly, he was personable and so enthusiastic. Not only did he give us an excellent tour, he also suggested restaurants and other places to visit. Highly recommend!!

Ancient Greece Comes Alive

Onoufrious' expert commentary made our day in Athens as much about the people of ancient Greece as the architecture. He had a special way of conveying visual details to help us understand and retain the historical timelines. We also did his Corinth, Mycenae, Epidaurus and Nafplio Private Tour, which augmented and reinforced what we learned in Athens. Since we had heard numerous times "This is a replica--the original is in Athens", we squeezed the National Archaeological Museum Private Tour in on our last day. He found many interesting artifacts in a rather stody museum. Highly recommended.

I'm Onoufrios,

an OFFICIAL TOURIST GUIDE licensed by the Ministry of Tourism to give tours, both inside and outside sites and museums . The official guides are required to wear a blue badge . It doesn’t get more private and personal than this, as I am not an agency and I don't arrange packages. ‍

                            * * *

I have a profound love for Greece and I enjoy giving awareness tours to people who are interested in art , history , local culture , politics and want to have a nice time .   If you are not interested, if you are looking for a shopping/eating tour or if people call you 'high-maintenance', I am definitely ( not probably) not the right guide for you.

                             * * *

Once upon a time, Αθήνα used to be the centre of... everything! It was the birthplace of Democracy ; home to philosophers , such as Socrates , Plato and Aristotle ; it gave birth to theatre itself. There's a reason why it was called the ' School of Greece '.

This is indeed where Europe and 'Western Civilization' began!

The city offers:

• numerous museums (two of the world's most important ones: the National Archaeological Museum and the Acropolis Museum, ranked in the World Top 10)
• several hills for hiking
• plenty of ancient sites , in the centre & nearby
• cafés and restaurants in the old town ( Plaka ) or other modern areas in the centre or by the sea
• very vibrant nightlife
• a lot of beaches as well as a lake and
• easy access to many islands !

So allow yourselves   a  f e w  d a y s   in this great city that started it all...

     athens deserves it.

* The meeting point is always a pre-designated spot. I do not provide hotel pick-up or drop-off unless it's a day trip including a vehicle.

Tours in Athens

Athens full day.

Athens Full Day for Outdoors Lovers

2 Full Days in Athens

3 Full Days in Athens

National Archaeological Museum

Athens Half Day

2/3 Half Days

Gods and Myths

Outside of Athens

Delphi & arachova.

Corinth, Mycenae, Epidaurus & Nafplio

St. Paul Tour in Athens & Corinth

Click "Chat Now" and chat directly with me.

© 2020 Onoufrios Dovletis All rights reserved

The BEST Tours in Athens

The Acropolis is easily the most visited attraction in Athens, and for a good reason. Taking a guided tour will create a timeline of Greek history and tie it to the ruins through stories & anecdotes, bringing this ancient society to life! Below you'll find different options, including a full Acropolis tour, with the Acropolis museum. It's a half-day experience that leaves no stop uncovered. We also feature a highlights tour, an abridged version that covers the essentials of the archeological site, including the Parthenon. No trip to Greece is complete without heading out on the waters of the Aegean--Greeks are seafaring people. Take a look at one of our local-run boat tours, including secret islands near Athens. We've all learned about the oracles of Delphi in school which makes a day trip to the Archeological site an attractive option. Join a local-run trip to Delphi, see the Temple of Apollo, the Sanctuary of Athena Pronaia, and have time to explore local villages and get lunch! Greek food is also one of the main draws to this fair city. Food tours are a popular selling item, and customers can't say enough good things about them. Join a local foodie that will run you through local food culture and bring you to the must-try spots.

Book tours to the Acropolis, day trips to Delphi, cooking classes, boat tours, and other great experiences in Athens!

18 Tours Found

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Skip-the-Line Acropolis Tour with Parthenon and Museum

Discover the ancient mythology and historic landmarks of Athens with an expert archaeologist guide

Essential Highlights Tour of the Acropolis and Parthenon

Skip the line and get to know Greece’s most important ruins, including the Temple of Athena Nike

Athens Local Food Tour in Monastiraki

Discover the real taste of Greece with a fun foodie guide and explore amazing Varvakios Agora Market

Athens Sightseeing Tour by Golf Cart

Glide around the ancient city in order to see all the top spots of Athens!

Athens Cooking Class with Dinner and Rooftop View of the Acropolis

Create Authentic Greek Dishes with Local Ingredients in a Small Group

Greek Islands Boat Tour by Wooden Ship from Athens

Cruise clear blue seas to the gorgeous Saronic Islands, with snorkeling, meals, and drinks included

Delphi and Arachova Day Trip from Athens

Take a journey to the center of the ancient Greek world to see the Temple of Apollo and more

Athens Wine Tasting Tour Under the Acropolis

Sample Greek wine varieties paired with traditional food alongside an expert guide

Classical Athens Bike Tour

E-bike with ease around Athens to see the highlights of the city!

Half-Day Sailing & Gastronomy Cruise From Athens

Indulge in authentic Greek cuisine cooked onboard the Aiolis Alfa, expertly paired with local wine

Athens Street Food Tour in Psyrri

Delight in six traditional Greek dishes, paired with beverages, on this local secrets foodie tour

Cape Sounion and Temple of Poseidon Half Day Tour from Athens

Cruise along a coastal road near the Aegean Sea and watch the sunset over the Temple of Poseidon

Athens Wines, Spirits, and Gourmet Bites Tour

Join a local expert for a three-hour introduction to Athens’ vibrant nightlife, drinks, and bites

Athens Half-Day Tour with Acropolis

See the city’s most historic sites and explore the Acropolis with skip-the-line tickets!

Classical Athens by E-Bike Shore Excursion

From the cruise terminal, cycle to Areopagus Hill, the Roman Forum, the Olympic Stadium, and more!

OUR BEST SELLING TOURS AT A GLANCE

Most Popular Tours

Privileged entrance vatican tour with sistine chapel.

Skip the line and gain direct access to the Raphael Rooms, Creation of Man, and St. Peter's Basilica

Rome in a Day Tour with Colosseum and Vatican Museums

Explore the Sistine Chapel, St. Peter's Basilica, Roman Forum, Pantheon, Trevi Fountain, and more!

Ultimate Palace of Versailles Tour from Paris

Breeze past the lines for the palace and gardens with a friendly English speaking guide

Semi-Private Vatican Tour with Sistine Chapel

Enjoy a premium and exclusive tour of the Raphael Rooms, St.Peter's Basilica, and more!

Special Access Colosseum Arena Floor Tour through the Gladiator's Gate

Walk in the footsteps of gladiators on the Colosseum floor and see the Roman Forum and Palatine Hill

St. Mark’s Basilica & Doge’s Palace Half-Day Tour with Gondola Ride

Explore St. Mark's Square's most iconic attractions with skip-the-line tickets and an expert guide

Privileged Entrance Colosseum Tour with Roman Forum & Palatine Hill

Skip the line at the Colosseum, plus Arch of Titus, Temple of Julius Caesar, and more!

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Athens Full Day

The Athens essentials that you just can’t miss! This Athens full day 8 hours private tour combines the historical part of the city of Athens with the contemporary way of living of the Athenians. A great tour to navigate among all the fundamental must-see sights in Athens from the locals’ perspective.

You will enjoy a personal hassle free experience without having to worry about getting around in a city that you visit for the first time. We will wait for you right in front of your accommodation and one of your most memorable tours will begin.

• Admission Fees
• Opening Hours
• Usefull Info
• Photo Gallery

The reference list of what you will see and experience during the Athens Full Day tour includes but is not limited to:

• Temple of Wingless Nike
• Odeum of Herodes Atticus
• Temple of Olympian Zeus
• Hadrian’s Arch
• Old Olympic Stadium
• Presidential Palace
• Changing of the Guards
• Constitution (Syntagma) Square
• Lycabetus Hill
• Trilogy of Culture (Academy, University, Library of Athens)
• Authentic Greek Lunch
• Ancient Greek Agora
• New Acropolis Museum or National Archaeological Museum of Athens or any other museum of your choice

We can customize this tour to your needs. If you want to skip or add something, please let us know in advance.

On this superb full day tour the first thing to do is definitely to visit the Acropolis Hill , before the crowds and the heat begin to rise. There you will explore the magnificent gate of Propylaea, the Temple of the wingless Nike, the Erectheion with the imperious maidens Karyatides, and last but not least the masterpiece of Classical architecture, the Parthenon . The Acropolis gives you the chance to enjoy a panoramic view of the theater of Dionysus, the Odeum of Herodes Atticus , the Ancient Greek Agora, the modern city of Athens and even the port of Piraeus.

After your visit to the sacred rock of the Acropolis, you can lay back in our luxurious, comfortable and air conditioned vehicle and your chauffeur will drive you to explore the rest of the city in the most stylish and convenient way. Next comes the visit the Temple of Olympian Zeus and the Hadrian’s Arch. Your next stop is the Old Olympic Stadium.

Right after you will have the chance to witness the intricate changing ritual of the guards in front of Athens’ Presidential Palace. Continue with the driving tour and see the greatest examples of 19th century neoclassical architecture like the Trilogy of Culture, the masons on Queen Sophia’s Av., the House of the Parliament on Constitution Sq. (Syntagma Square) where the Tomb of the Unknown Soldier exists.

After all this soaking in of history and culture we suggest a break and can organize a nice home cooked family style lunch to taste the real side of Greek Food. After having a rest we are ready to hit the road once again and take some pictures that will last a lifetime. A drive through the old aristocratic neighborhood of Athens named Kolonaki, is incumbent.

From there on, your chauffer will drive you to the most beautiful balcony of Athens on Lycabettus Hill where you can take a spectacular panoramic picture of the city. Whether you are an expert in photography or simply a lover of all things beautiful you will definitely be tempted to capture the stunning view through your lens and create a memento that will stay with you and help you remember your unique day in Athens.

And because our purpose is to offer you what suits you best, do not forget that you can customize the last 2 hours of your tour by adding to your itinerary one of the following options:

• The New Acropolis Museum is undeniably among the best museums of the World. The beautiful new museum You can delve further into the magical stories behind the Acropolis in a place where ancient history meets the modern world of 21st century.
• The ancient Agora with its wonderful Temple of Hephaestus, can be visited on our tour after your lunch while also providing an excellent chance for a walk through the beautiful neighborhood of Thiseio.
• The National Archeological Museum of Athens where you can view an exquisite selection of the most important and representative exhibits of Greek culture is the ideal alternative for guests who are not planning on visiting historical sites outside Athens. If you want to have an all-inclusive experience and have a taste of every period of Greek history just by visiting one place, this museum will cover all your specifications.
• Any other Museum in Athens of your choice can also be visited at this point of our tour.

On the way to your accomondation if time permits we can have a quick stop to enjoy Greek delicacies and something cool to drink just like the locals do during the summer months.

Entrance fees, to the Acropolis, Temple of Zeus, and Ancient Agora, are 30 Euro total pp (combined ticket obtained at the ticket office of any site) and 20 Euro for just the Acropolis.

Entrance fee to the Acropolis Museum is 10 Euro pp.

Free admission for:

• Journalists Persons under 18 (with current identification to prove age)
• University students from Greece and the E.U

Free admission (regardless age) on the following dates:

• 18 May (International Museums Day)
• The last weekend of September annually (European Heritage Days)

For prices updates please click here

To buy your tickets in advance click here

For the Acropolis

• Winter period: 8:30am – 15:00
• Summer period:8:00am – 19:30

For Acropolis Museum:

• Winter period: Monday to Thursday: 9:00 a.m. – 5:00 p.m. (Last admission: 4:30 p.m.) Friday: 9:00 a.m. – 10:00 p.m. (Last admission: 9:30 p.m.) Saturday and Sunday: 9:00 a.m. – 8:00 p.m. (Last admission: 7:30 p.m.)
• Summer period: Monday: 8:00 a.m. – 4:00 p.m. (Last admission: 3:30 p.m.) Tuesday to Sunday: 8:00 a.m. – 8:00 p.m. (Last admission: 7:30 p.m.) Friday: 8:00 a.m. – 10:00 p.m. (Last admission: 9:30 p.m.)

All sites and museums are closed or have reduced opening hours, on the following holidays:

• Shrove Monday: 08.30-15.00
• 25 March: closed
• Good Friday: until 12:00 closed
• Holy Saturday: 08.30-15.00
• Easter Sunday
• Easter Monday: 08.30-15.00
• Holy Spirit Day: 08.30-15.00
• 15 August: 08.30-15.00
• 28 October: 08.30-15.00
• 25 December
• 26 December

For updates on opening hours please click here

There are a few things that are useful for you to know before participating in one of our tours.

• Comfortable clothing and sensible, flat-soled walking shoes are recommended for most locations. Sun glasses, a hat and sun screen are also suggested since the Mediterranean sun is extremely hot during the summer months. As far as walking is concerned you have to keep in mind that climbing up to the Acropolis is a rather challenging task. Guests must be able to walk over paved, inclined paths, some with steps and then climb a series of steps to reach the Propylea. The walking surface on top of the Acropolis is rather raw and uneven. It has been preserved in this manner in order to showcase the authentic environment of the monuments.
• Photography is permitted in almost every site throughout the tours and if it is prohibited you will be informed beforehand.
• Local currency (euros) might be needed in order to pay at the spot small entrance fees and small expenses.
• In case one of our guests has some special needs, is under certain medication or has a limited walking endurance you can let us know during the organization of your customized tour and we will make sure that small breaks are incorporated into your itinerary.
• Also it is suggested that you bring with you a small bottle of water or something small to eat in case you need to during the tour. Furthermore if an individual has advanced accessibility needs you can let us know and allow us to customize the tour to fit your needs.

• Tel: +30-6944294320
• WhatsApp: +30-6944294320
• E-mail: [email protected]

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George's Private Tours

…we create your private tour experience.

Private Tours Athens LCC is a professional, fully licensed tour company committed to making your Greek stay a memorable one.

Private Tours Athens is staffed by a team of the BEST English speaking drivers, licensed tour guides & archeologists who live in the city and every day inhabit her history and traditions in their present shape. We love to share our enthusiasm and knowledge with you, covering all of its important sites and topics with an accessible and engaging approach.

With our well-planned and carefully studied itineraries, you will be able to maximise your time experiencing the culture, the history and the art of the past in the most direct and meaningful manner possible. We know that your time in Athens is precious and is often the fulfilment of a life-long dream. We care about this and don’t want you to miss this great opportunity to enrich your mind and your life, experiencing at first hand the roots of our present societies and institutions . This is the goal that all of our team will help you to realize.

We hope you will find our website useful and different from the others. In this website you will find dozens of proposals for day Tours in Athens, Tours around Greece and Shore Excursions all divided by tour length. Don’t worry! If you don’t find your “perfect” tour,send us your request and we’ll be happy to help you build your perfect itinerary.

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Private tours in athens, private tours around greece, private shore excursions.

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Private transfers, we offer reliable and exclusive private door-to-door transfer services in order your stay proceeds without any difficulty., find your roots, we will be honored to escort & assist you on your journey to rediscover your family's heritage with care & respect for the bond you share., whether you’d like to experience the wonders of ancient athens, or enjoy your own athenian holiday, we have designed a tour that’s perfect for you., our most popular tours, trip to amphiareion of oropos, immerse yourself in athens, trip to cape sounio, a taste of athens & ancient corinth, a taste of athens & cape sounion, a taste of athens, testimonials.

We would like to write to say how happy we were with your recent service in Athens. We will be definitely recommending the service to anyone we know off to Greece!

I would like to say on behalf of myself and family that we all very much enjoyed our tour around Athens with our tour guide. We would like to thank you and your company for our lovely tour of Athens and hope to be back one day.

I just wanted to let you know we were very happy with the taxi service for our day in Athens with Billy. We would never have been able to see all that we did without Billy driving us. He was professional, had great information and was lots of fun.

SantoriniDave.com

Best tours & things to do in athens.

Greece › Athens › Athens Tours Updated: March 12, 2024 By Santorini Dave

See Also • Where to Stay in Athens • Best Hotels in Athens • Best Family Hotels in Athens • Best Museums in Athens • Best Archaeological Sites in Athens

The Parthenon (the building, pictured above), Acropolis (the entire site, which includes the Parthenon and several other structures), and Acroplis Museum (a stunning modern building, just down the hill from the Acropolis) are the must-see highlights of Athens. The Acropolis Private Tour and the Acropolis Small Group Tour are the best ways to visit and explore these sights.

The 7 Best Tours in Athens Original Greek Food Tour of Athens The single best tour for exploring the urban core of modern Athens. This is a fun walking tour of the best food and restaurants in central Athens. There’s also a stop at the iconic Central Market (fruit, vegetables, fish, meat, spices). You’ll get a good overview of the city’s culture (and a bit of history) while eating some great food with a friendly guide. There’s a 10am morning tour and a 2pm afternoon tour. I know I sound like a broken record on this but food tours are an awesome way to explore a new city. Acropolis & Acropolis Museum Tour with Entry Tickets A 4-hour small-group guided tour of the Acropolis, Parthenon, and nearby Acropolis Museum. Includes entrance tickets to both the Acropolis and the Acropolis Museum. (A huge advantage of doing a tour is that you get skip-the-line tickets. When you visit on your own you need to queue for tickets and that line can be insanely long.) The entrance to the marvelous Acropolis Museum, with the Parthenon visible in the background. Athens City Highlights Tour (Private Tour) This is a great private tour of the Acropolis and surrounding area (Parthenon, Erechtheion, Propylaea, Temple of Nike, Dionysus Sanctuary, Odeon of Herodes Atticus, and Ancient Agora) and is the best way to see the highlights of Athens and learn the city’s history. Like all tours, your guide will have access to skip-the-line tickets for the Acropolis which allows you to bypass the long entrance queues. This tour is very flexible with time, duration, and route. Athens Original Street Art Tour Awesome tour of the graffiti and street art of central Athens. Many tours describe themselves as “off the beaten path” that only visit the expected top sights. This one really does explore a side of Athens tourists rarely explore or think about. Very cool and great for families with teens. Traditional Greek Cooking Lesson Great introduction to Greek food and how to make it. Recipes will be sent to you so you can prepare them at home. Very family-friendly. There’s also an excellent Night Food & Wine Tasting Tour . A Bike Tour is a great way to see the highlights of central Athens. Old Town Highlights Electric Bike Tour Fun and easy-going tour of the highlights of central Athens on simple-to-use electrick bikes. The 9 KM route takes in most of the top historic sights and tours Plaka and National Gardens. Tour starts at 10am in an easy-to-find spot in Plaka. Private Wine Tour and Lunch The best wine tour from Athens with an excellent tour guide (usually Spyros – he really knows his wine). Includes hotel pick up and drop and a good quality lunch at a seaside taverna.

The Best Things To Do in Athens 1. The Acropolis and Parthenon One of the most important archaeological sites in Greece, this ancient hilltop citadel houses the remains of several temples, including the Parthenon. The Acropolis was inhabited from the 4th millennium B.C., though its most recognizable landmarks date to the 5th century B.C. The Acropolis site includes the Parthenon (a temple of Athena, goddess of wisdom, civilization, and war), Temple of Athena Nike (a temple to Athena, triumphant in war), the Erechtheion (temple of Athena and Poseidon – god of the sea, earthquakes, and horses), and more. On the way up to the Acropolis, you’ll see the Odeon of Herodes Atticus and pass by the trail to the Sanctuary of Dionysus, both on the slope of the hill beneath the Acropolis. Tickets to the Acropolis can be purchased on their own or bundled with the Ancient Agora, Hadrian’s Library, Acropolis Museum, the Roman Agora, and more. I strongly recommend doing a guided tour of the Acropolis . Guides will have skip-the-line tickets and lines can often be two hours long. If you’re part of a tour you’ll skip right by the queues. Best Acropolis & Parthenon Tours • Acropolis Tour (small group) • Acropolis & Acropolis Museum Tour (small group) • Acropolis Tour (private) • Acropolis & Acropolis Museum Tour (private) 2. Acropolis Museum This spectacular and relatively new museum is a highlight of a visit to Athens. It’s located a short walk from the Acropolis (head south down the hill towards the Odeon of Herodes Atticus), so the two sites are easy to visit together and complement each other well. (If you have 5 hours or less in Athens then visit the Acropolis and Acropolis Museum.) The museum houses and displays artifacts sourced from the Acropolis and its slopes, and rests upon huge pillars over the excavated ruins of an ancient Athenian neighborhood (which is included in the admission fee). There’s an excellent cafe on site, with terrace seating in the shadow of the Parthenon. Doing a guided tour of both the Acropolis and Acropolis Museum is a great way to save time (as tour guides will have skip-the-line tickets to both attractions). You can also buy skip the line tickets for the Acropolis Museum separately. 3. National Archaeological Museum The single best museum in Greece, loaded with archaeological treasures. It’s one of the few top attractions that isn’t a short walk from the Plaka/Acropolis area so you’ll need to take a taxi (5 minutes), metro (10 minutes, get out at Omonia station), or walk (about 25 minutes from Plaka or Syntagma Square). If you have only one day in Athens you might be forced to miss this. If you have 2 days or more then make an effort to get here. The experience is dramatically enhanced if you get a private tour guide to explain all the history and top exhibits. If you don’t do a tour then you can get tickets in advance here .

Visit the charming and chaotic Central Market on the Original Greek Food Tour of Athens .

4. Plaka and Monastiraki These adjacent neighborhoods at the base of the Acropolis are filled with historical sites like the Agora, Hadrian’s Library, Temple of Hephaestus, and Stoa of Attalos. Largely pedestrianized throughout, Plaka and Monastiraki feature a fun and lively atmosphere that’s great for wandering, shopping, eating, and sightseeing. They’re also two of our favorite areas to stay in Athens , and are home to many of our favorite restaurants and hotels . 5. The Agoras Agora means marketplace in Greek, and there are two archaeological sites in Athens that house the remains and artifacts of these communal gathering spaces. Combination tickets to the Athens archaeological sites are available that include both Agoras, the Acropolis, Hadrian’s Library, the Acropolis Museum, and more. The Ancient Agora lies between Monastiraki and the base of the Acropolis. It’s easy to make out the ancient streets and squares here that were once the haunting ground of Socrates and Plato. This sprawling area includes sites such as the Temple of Hephaestus (shown above), the Stoa of Attalos (which houses a small and interesting museum), and the Byzantine Church of the Holy Apostles. Much of the Ancient Agora dates to the 2nd Century BC or even earlier. The Roman Agora was built during the reigns of Julius Ceasar and Ceasar Augustus in the 1st century BC. It has an impressive entrance (the Gate of Athena Archegetis), but not as much going on as in the Ancient Agora. The most famous structure in the Roman Agora is the eight-sided, marble Tower of the Winds: combination weather vane, water clock, and sundial, built by a Macedonian astronomer in the 2nd century BC. The Roman Agora lies on the border between the Monastiraki and Plaka neighborhoods of central Athens. 6. Changing of the Guard (Evzones) Every hour on the hour, there is a changing of the guard at the Hellenic Parliament building on Syntagma Square. The guards, known as Evzones, stand stock-still before the Tomb of the Unknown Soldier until the ritual begins: a slow-motion dance of precision and strength. Usually, the practice involves two guards who are wearing a more understated version of the traditional uniform in khaki, black, and white (shown above). On Sunday mornings at 11am, however, visitors can expect to see many more guards and a more elaborate ritual, with Evzones led by a military band and dressed in the more traditional and colorful uniforms that are reserved for special occasions. (Interesting fact: the kilt of the Evzone uniform has exactly 400 pleats; one for each year of Turkish occupation.) It is free to watch the ceremony; arrive early on Sundays to secure a good view.

See the Changing of the Guard at the Unknown Soldier Monument on the excellent Private Guided Tour of Athens, Acropolis, and Acropolis Museum .

7. The National Garden A short walk from Syntagma Square and the Greek Parliament buildings, The National Garden provides a relaxing break from the chaos of busy Athens. Take a picnic, let the kids run around and watch the ducks and turtles (there’s a nice children’s playground in the garden’s southeast quadrant), or simply relax in the shade for a bit. In addition to the greenery, the National Garden also has some ancient ruins, Corinthian columns, mosaics, and a small botanical museum on site. And it’s free. 8. Temple of Olympian Zeus The Temple of Olympian Zeus dates back to the 6th century BC; it once featured over 100 17-meter columns and was filled with statues of gods and emperors, but after centuries of damage, only 15 columns remain standing. It is the namesake and most prominent feature of the Olympieion archaeological site, which also includes ruins of Roman baths, Classical residences, a 5th century basilica, and a portion of the city’s fortification wall. The well-preserved marble Arch of Hadrian (132 A.D.) sits just outside the Temple of Olympian Zeus, and they’re both only a 5-minute walk from the Acropolis Museum, making them an easy stop in the central area. The Temple of Olympian Zeus is included on the combination ticket of Athens archaeological sites. 9. Eco & Wildlife Tours There is more to Athens than ancient ruins. The city makes an excellent home base for trekking into the wilds of Attica and beyond, a welcome break from the crowds. Natural Greece offers several sustainable tours where travelers can participate in conservation efforts on land or at sea, while led by a team of environmental scientists. Day tours leaving from Athens may focus on birdwatching, wildflowers, butterflies, or hiking. Multi-day tours are best (though day trips are possible) for studying the ultra-rare Mediterranean monk seal (seen above), one of the rarest marine mammals in the world. Private or small group tours available. 10. Athens Central Market A wonderful and lively slice of modern Athens. Meats, olives, feta, spices, olive oil, fruits, vegetables – you name it, it’s here. The adjacent side streets are lined with shops of all kinds. The excellent Original Greek Food Tour of Athens stops here and explains the markets origins and history. Located about 500 meters north of Monastiraki Square in central Athens. 11. Benaki Museum of Greek Culture Established in 1930, this well-curated collection of Greek artwork and artifacts (ranging from ancient to modern) is set in the beautiful neoclassical family mansion of Antonis Benaki, who also donated over 35,000 pieces of his own art collection. Along with paintings and sculpture, the museum houses terrific examples of historic Greek textiles, jewelry, and other cultural artifacts. The Benaki also maintains satellite galleries throughout Athens, which include the Museum of Islamic Art, The Ghika Gallery, and the Toy Museum. Located in central Athens near Syntagma Square, across the street from the Parliament building and the National Garden. Closed Tuesdays.

The Athens’ restaurant scene is lively and fun. The Nighttime Food and Wine Tasting Tour is a great way to explore some of the best dining spots.

12. Monastiraki Flea Market On Mondays to Saturdays, the “Flea Market” adjacent to Monastiraki Square is mostly a collection of narrow pedestrian lanes lined with souvenir and sandals shops, but on Sundays people come from miles around to sell all manner of used, cheap, and antique goods: books, clothing, trinkets, toys, furniture, textiles, home goods, electronics, anything you can think of and then some. It’s crowded and cramped, but fun and free and always interesting; arrive before 11am to avoid the crush. The best stuff is usually found at the stalls crowded into the market’s epicenter at Avissinias Square, with lanes of quirky vendors branching out from there in every direction. 13. National Historical Museum The oldest of its kind in Greece, the National Historical Museum in Athens was founded in 1882, and has found its permanent home in the building that housed the Greek Parliament from 1875 to 1932. The museum’s permanent collection tells the story of Greek culture throughout the ages; corridors and rooms narrate different centuries and periods. Items on display include weapons, personal belongings and memorabilia from historical personalities such as Lord Byron, historical paintings by Greek and foreign artists, authentic manuscripts, and a large collection of traditional Greek costumes and jewelry from various regions of Greece. Located one block northwest of Syntagma Square. General admission fee is 3€, with free entrance on Sundays; closed Mondays. 14. Athens Churches Visiting churches in Athens offers a unique insight into Greece’s deep religious traditions and architectural beauty. From the historic significance of the Byzantine-era Panagia Kapnikarea nestled within Athens’ bustling district to the serene majesty of the Metropolitan Cathedral (pictured above) and it’s diminutive neighbor the “ Little Metropolis “, each distinct church is a testament to Greece’s rich spiritual heritage and artistic achievement. These sacred sites not only serve as places of worship, but also as testaments to the city’s centuries-old history and singular spaces in which art, history, and spirituality intertwine. Note that modest dress is required in Greek Orthodox churches and monasteries, which means avoiding exposed knees and shoulders for both women and men. If you’re wearing shorts, a short skirt, or a tank top, covering up with a wrap before entering is appropriate and appreciated. 15. Outdoor Cinema Watch a movie in the heart of Plaka under the lights of the Acropolis at Cine Paris rooftop outdoor theater. Films are typically American (in english) with Greek subtitles. Beer, wine, and light snacks are available. Tickets are sold at the theater box office only; we recommend queueing up early or buying tickets in advance, as shows often sell out. With theaters generally operating from May to October, outdoor cinema is a highlight of summer in Greece. More great outdoor cinemas in central Athens: Cine Thisio – Another excellent spot with Parthenon views, located on the Acropolis’ western side. Tickets sold at the theater only. Cine Aegli – Atop Zappeion Hall in the National Garden. Wonderful food and service. Tickets sold at the theater only. Cine Dexameni – In Kolonaki, at the foot of Lycabettus Hill. Online tickets available. 16. Hadrian’s Library Built by the Roman Emperor Hadrian in 132 A.D., this complex once housed three stories of books, as well as areas dedicated to academic instruction, reading, philosophical walks and reflection, and athletic recreation. The site also includes what is believed to be the oldest Christian church in Athens. Hadrian’s Library is located very near Monastiraki Square and is included on the combination ticket of Athens archaeological sites. 17. Panathenaic (Olympic) Stadium Also known as Kallimarmaro , this 50,000 capacity stadium hosted the first modern Olympic Games in 1896, and was built on the site of the original stadium for the Panathenaic Games (330 BC), which were held every 4 years in honor of the goddess Athena. It is the only stadium in the world built entirely out of marble. The stadium continues to hold regular concerts in the summer, as well as host significant cultural, sporting, and ceremonial events. It is the finishing point for the annual Athens Classic Marathon, and during an Olympic Games year, it is the hand-off location for the Olympic flame from Greece. Enjoy impressive views of Mt. Lycabettus and the Acropolis by climbing to the top. Located in the district of Pangrati in central Athens, near the National Garden and the Temple of Olympian Zeus; about a 1km walk from Syntagma Square. Daily runs are held every morning from 7:30am to 9:00am. 18. Benizelos Mansion Located in the Plaka neighborhood, the Benizelos Mansion is the oldest surviving house in Athens, built between the 16th and 17th centuries. The residence’s original occupants were Athenian aristocrats with Byzantine roots, and their 2-story house gives modern-day visitors a sense of the traditions and lifestyles of wealthy Athenians before the Greek revolution against the Ottoman Empire. The house is also known as the House of Saint Philothei, in honor of the couple’s daughter, Revoula, a philanthropist and freedom-fighter for Greek women enslaved into harems by the Ottomans. Severely beaten and later succumbing to death from her injuries, she is revered as a martyr and has been canonized as Saint (Agia) Philothei, which translates to “friend of God”. The Benizelos Mansion is open limited hours, entrance fee is by donation and goes to charity. 19. Mount Lycabettus The highest point in Athens with dramatic panoramic views out over the entire city. Located across Plaka and Syntagma Square from the Acropolis (and shown here on the left), the 300 meter hilltop can be reached by foot or via a funicular tram that travels in a tunnel inside the hill. At the top sits the quaint and beautiful St George’s Chapel, an all-day cafe, and a panoramic fine-dining restaurant. 20. Temple of Poseidon at Cape Sounio This ancient site is an 80-minute drive southeast of Athens. It’s super interesting, but only worth the trip if you have 3 days or more in the capital (any less and your time is better spent in central Athens). The excellent Cape Sounion Small-Group Tour with Sunset Viewing includes hotel pick up from central Athens. 21. Voluntourism at Let’s Be S.M.A.R.T. This cat sanctuary south of the city has been caring for Athens many, many stray cats since 2011, nursing them to health and sheltering them until they can be adopted, often into homes abroad. Volunteers and veterinary interns are always needed to assist with daily operations of the shelter, feeding kittens, caring for elderly and infirm cats, aiding nearby feral cat colonies, and more. Multi-day stays at the shelter include accommodations, breakfast and lunch, organized activities, and more. Duties vary according the the volunteer’s or intern’s skill set and shelter needs.

The Best Places to Eat & Drink in Athens

Highly recommended: The Original Athens Food Tour – a great introduction to the city’s food and culture. Visit markets, top restaurants, specialty shops, and trendy neighborhoods.

22. Best Gyros and Souvlaki in Athens Athens is loaded with great restaurants , but for good cheap eats, nothing beats an authentic gyro from a local shop. There’s a strip of good gyro places just off Monastiraki Square (opposite the metro station). Our favorites in central Athens include Kostas and O Thanasis . If you have time, Kavouras in the Exarcheia neighborhood (and not far from the The National Archaeological Museum) and O Elvis in Kerameikos are worth seeking out. 23. Best Restaurant in Athens The best restaurant in the Plaka area is Psarras Taverna . With a magical setting and great traditional Greek food, Psarras (also known as The Old Tavern of Psaras) has been around since 1898 – and for good reason. It’s wonderfully romantic, with a casual vibe, great house wine, and live music on weekend nights. If you only eat at one spot in Athens, make it this one. Reservations are recommended for dinner. (+30 21 0321 8734) 24. Best Bar in Athens Warm and lively Baba Au Rum is my favorite place to get a drink in the tourist center. It’s world renowned for its excellent cocktails and often packed, but staff are friendly and helpful even when it’s busy. 25. Best Rooftop Bar in Athens 360° Cocktail Bar , the rooftop bar of Hotel 360° in Monastiraki, features signature cocktails, regional wine and food pairings, and killer rooftop views to the Acropolis. Go at sunset, but make a reservation in advance to secure a good table. (+30 21 0321 0006) 26. Best Gelato in Athens Coco’s has the best gelato in Athens. It’s worth seeking this place out when you’re wandering through Plaka. La Greche in Syntagma is also really good.

I know I’ve recommended a ton of stuff. If you’re still undecided, then remember the Parthenon and Acropolis are the must-see attractions for first time visitors to Athens. Doing an Acropolis Private Guided Tour is an awesome way to learn and explore.

About Santorini Dave

Dave Love your site If I am interested in the private Acropolis tour with skip the line, are entry tickets included? If not how do we get those? Thanks

Yes, they are usually included in a private tour. And even when they’re not tours have access to a faster ticket line when queueing for tickets.

I have read so much about Delphi and Meteora and would like to join a tour so it is easy for us. Which is the best tour you would recommend and should I just do Meteora or both and should I do day or overnight trips? I looked and saw many tours are either large group or private tours only. Are there any that has a small group-small bus kind?

If I could only do one it would be the Meteora. Absolutely stunning! For both Delphi and the Meteora it’s much better to do an overnight trip and get to the sights early in the morning before the tour buses arrive. (And late afternoon after they’ve departed.) The Meteora tour I listed above is a private tour and very well done. Private tours are just about always worth the extra cost if it’s within your budget.

Dave! Thanks for putting this together.

Would love to do a food tour, unfortunately, the “Original Athens Food Tour” is sold out on our day in Athens. Do you have another recommendation that tours good Greek food and restaurants in Athens?

Taste of Athens also does a very good food tour of Athens. Try them.

Hi Dave, We need your advice on how to go to Delphi from Kalambaka. My plan is to stay 1 night in Kalambaka and the next day we will visit Delphi and back to Athens.

Thanks to you and this blog, it is very helpful!

Getting from Kalambaka (the Meteora) to Delphi involves taking the bus via Trikala. The route is different depending on the day but takes between 5 and 7 hours. The latest you can leave Kalambaka is 2pm. If you’re starting from Athens and want to visit both sights then the Delphi and Meteora tour is good value.

Is there a tour or event that we could see traditional Greek dancing and music in central Athens?

Thanks Santorini Dave!

This is a good tour for Greek dancing . Yes, it’s for tourists but the dancing is great and food very good. It’s a fun atmosphere.

Your blog is very helpful. Thank you. I have a question. I have a spare day in Athens (after covering the Parthenon, Plaka, and area) and I really want to visit Meteora. I know it seems like overkill for one day. The other two options are the tour to Delphi or the 3 islands tour (Hydra, Poros, Aigina). Let me know what you would think about the one day trip to Meteora. Thanks again!

The Meteora is awesome. If you have the interest then definitely bite the bullet and make it happen. Yes, it’s a long day but unforgettable.

Hello Dave,

I will be in Athen from Frankfurt in end of June, my flight landing in Athens @ 9:40PM. Do you think I will have enough time to catch a metro going to Monastiraki? Not sure how long the custom, and how far walking to buy a ticket and find metro. I believe the last metro train from the airport is at 11:30PM. Any tip and information is appreciated.

Yes, you should have plenty of time. It’s a short walk from the arrival terminal to the metro station (2 minutes). Just follow the signs and buy ticket from the electronic kiosk. Then down the stairs to the train. If your plane is late and you do miss the last train then buses run 24 hours a day.

Hi Dave, love your site! Interested in your recommendation to hire a tour guide at the gates of the Acropolis. Do you negotiate a price for the tour or is it a set price?

Generally, the price is set but there is a little room for negotiation (sometimes).

Love your website! My brother used it to plan his honeymoon, now I’m planning a girls’ trip for October. Our initial itinerary: Day 1: Leave US Day 2: Arrive in Athens Day 3: Athens Day 4: Ferry to Milos Day 5: Milos Day 6: Milos Day 7: Ferry to Santorini Day 8: Santorini Day 9: Santorini Day 10: Santorini/ Fly back to Athens Day 11: Fly home Any concerns with that itinerary? Also, since I haven’t booked flights yet, does it matters if the weekend we’re in Greece is in Athens or Santorini. I don’t love crowds, and hopefully going in early October will help that. But is there any concern that things will be closed or extra busy at either location? Sarah

Looks like a great itinerary. Milos will be quiet (but still mostly open). Athens and Santorini will be busy, but not crazy busy.

Hi Santorini Dave, this is the best website on Greece by a wide margin. You’re a legend.

Would you recommend doing a tour of the Acropolis or is that something we can do on our own? Is it easy to get around and see?

I would recommend doing it with a small tour. It’s a totally different experience doing it on your own or doing it with a tour guide. It’s certainly easy to walk around the grounds on your own and look at the buildings (the Acropolis does not cover a large area). But unless you’re a Greek history major (with some art history) 90% of the sights and significance will be lost on you. Even with a detailed book it’s hard to match the insight and intimacy of a good tour guide. As I say, they seem like the same experience, but with a guide and on your own – you might as well be visiting a different attraction.

Hi Dave, I am travelling to Athens, Santorini and Crete this September. I just found out that I am pregnant and I want to make sure I can eat the food (for example: pregnant women can only eat cooked meat and milk products that are pasteurized). Do you know if most cheese over there is made of pasteurized milk? It would be a shame to not be able to eat cheese since it is one of the main ingredients in sallads etc. Do you think “gyros” will be fine ? I think the meat is well cooked (not red), but not sure about hygiene. Any information you have would be much appreciated. Thanks! Lynn

All feta in Greece is pasteurized. The soft goat cheese that you might get at a farm-style restaurant is more likely to be unpasteurized.

The blog is awesome. Thank you for all the suggestions. We are a group of 6 travelling to athens for 3 days in August. We were planning to take the hop-on hop-off bus with a 24 hour validity. Is it worth it or should be instead pick our locations and go there by Metro?

Thanks in Advance. Cheers Vaibhav

Personally, I would not do the hop on hop off bus tours. Most of the top sights in Athens are in the Plaka area and easy to get between on foot (actually the bus will not go near many of them). Most of the hop on/hop off tours do go by the Archaeological Museum which is great and not close to the other sights (but it’s also easy to get to by metro, taxi, or a 30 minute walk). Some tours go by the beaches and Piraeus but I wouldn’t waste time driving out to either in a bus. With only 3 days stick to the central area.

What restaurants do you recommend to eat at when in Athens?

Psaras Taverna in the Plaka is my favorite. Outdoor tables spill down the steps and onto the sidewalk. Great atmosphere, great food. The best restaurant with views of the Acropolis in Athens is Strofi in Koukaki.

My return flight from Santorini stops at Athens for 4 1/2 hours. We get to Athens for 7:30am and my flight leaves at noon. Do you think it’s enough time to go to see the Acropolis and Parthenon in Athens?

Thanks, Julie

It’s possible but there’s some risk too. Assuming you have some luggage you’d have to store that at the airport (arrivals level, turn left out of baggage claim) which will take a few minutes. Let’s say you’re in a taxi by 8pm you could be to the Acropolis by 8:40 if traffic isn’t bad (Saturday and Sunday have lighter traffic). If you hurried you could do a super-quick tour of the sight in 30 minutes. Back in a taxi by 9:30 and back to the airport by 10:15 and you’re ok. But anything goes wrong and you don’t have much buffer room. And also the question of whether you have to check in for your onward flight, check baggage, or can you check in remotely on your phone and only have carry-on. I’m tempted to say, if your flight arrives on time then go for it, but just know you are taking some risk of missing your flight. But heh, the Acropolis – it’s awesome.

I land in Athens at 4pm on Thursday, 8/31. I’m meeting friends in Mykonos Saturday 9/2 at 2pm, where I will stay until 9/8.

My questions is, how would you maximize the time in between? My 2 options are either stay in Athens Thursday night, and all day Friday. Or to fly to Santorini on Aegean as soon as I land, and then ferry over to Mykonos on Saturday. Which do you think would be the better option in this case?

Thanks so much for your help. Your site is so incredibly informative.

It depends on two things: First, do you have a preference for Athens or Santorini (I’m guessing not or you wouldn’t be asking). I think most people would prefer spending time in Santorini but Athens has plenty of great historical sights. And second, is there an Athens to Santorini flight you can get on Thursday afternoon. If not then I’d just stick with Athens and catch a morning ferry on the Saturday.

Hi Dave – thanks for putting together all of your knowledge here, it’s been super useful. I am going to have a 5 hour layover at the Athens airport and I was wondering how best to use that time. I will have a few days in Athens later, so I was thinking of taking a taxi to one of the smaller coastal towns for a meal. Do you have any recommendations? Thanks! Heather

Glyfada is a trendy (and very Greek) beach town with lots of cafes and restaurants. It’s 30 minutes by taxi from the airport. That’s probably your best bet.

We have four days. I can’t decide between a day trip to Cape Sounio, Corinth, or Delphi. We don’t mind walking or hiking, and each of these seems to have their attraction. Your suggestions? Rachael Sharp

My favorite day trip from Athens is Nafplio (the 3-hour food and walking tour is excellent), second is Delphi, Cape Sounio third.

My sister and I will be travelling to Santorini, Mykonos and Athens this September. We fly in to Santorini quite late (9:00pm) for four nights (three full days). We have booked our accommodation in Santorini, but nowhere else at this stage. Our plan was to then catch a ferry to Mykonos and stay there for three nights (two full days), followed by a 9:00am flight to Athens for one night. We fly to London at 7:00pm the following night, so this would give us nearly two full days in Athens.

After researching flight options, I’ve realised that we could also catch a flight from Mykonos to Athens at 9:00am on the day we fly back to London. This would allow us to spend an extra night on Santorini or Mykonos and leave us with enough time in Athens (arriving 10:00am, departing 7:00pm) to see the Acropolis and Parthenon. I saw in one of your previous comments that it’s possible to store your luggage at Athens Airport.

My question is whether or not you would recommend spending the additional night on either Santorini or Mykonos? If so, which one – 5 nights (4 days) on Santorini and 3 nights (2 days) on Mykonos, or 4 nights on each? Or do you think it would be better to stick with our original plan and stay overnight in Athens? We’d really just be happy to visit the Acropolis and Parthenon, but I’d be interested to know if you would suggest spending the extra time in Athens to do the 5-hour Athens/Acropolis/Museum tour you’ve recommended above.

Thanks in advance for your help and for providing this extremely helpful guide!

Best wishes, Nick

I love Athens so having almost two full days there sounds just right (and Athens is great in the evening when the Plaka restaurants are bursting out onto the sidewalk and there’s a great atmosphere). That said, for most tourists, I think they would enjoy the extra day more on the islands than in the city. If you don’t mind a bit of grit and grime (and lots of graffiti) then spend the time in Athens. If you’re fine with a quick trip through the top sights of Athens then spend that extra day in Santorini.

Hey Dave, My wife and I will be in Athens in mid June, and we were wondering if its possible to tour the Acropolis and museum with an audio guide (we did something similar in Rome and Pompeii in Italy). Or would you definitely recommend having a person guide us?

Thanks! Marc

Personally, I like a real-person guide so would definitely recommend going that way.

I and my partner are planning for a honeymoon in November this year. Our dates are from November 6 to November 15. Is it a good time to travel in November? Jinal Shah

Athens is great in early November. Still warmish weather with little rain. Tourist spots are quieter than summer but everything is open year-round. Local culture feels much more vibrant outside of the tourist high season from May to October.

Hi Dave – our family of 4 are travelling to Santorini (from Australia) in July to attend my brothers wedding. Our return flights have been booked such that we will have approx. 6 hours in Athens, as our flight arrives from Santorini at 10.30am Thurs 6/7 and departs Athens at 6pm (to Dubai). Rather than spending this time hanging out at the airport, is there anything in particular that you suggest that we do? Our 2 daughters are aged 11 and 8, and I was thinking that we hop on a train / bus and travel to downtown Athens for some exploring. However, very happy to be guided by you. Thanks for such a great travel site. Lydia

The highlight of Athens is the Acropolis and Parthenon. I would hop in a taxi and go straight to the Acropolis (ask the driver to drop you as close as possible). A tour guide of the Acropolis is very much worth getting. You can book these in advance or chance finding one at the entrance gate. Afterwards either head down the north side of the Acropolis to the Plaka to wander the narrow streets and get lunch. Or go down to the south side and go to the excellent Acropolis Museum. You’ll probably want to be in a taxi heading back to the airport by 3:15pm. There’s luggage storage at the Athens Airport – when you exit arrivals/customs turn left and go all the way to the end.

Hi Dave, hoping for your valuable input. My friend and I are planning to visit Greece and Italy on August 31st til September 10th. I have been hearing that not much could be done in Athens, thus was thinking of the following itinerary below (I know you might not be able to comment on Italy, but the Greece part would definitely help me).

Thurs – arrive early morning in Athens and spend the day around Athens Friday – Take a flight/ferry to Mykonos Saturday – Mykonos Sunday – Mykonos to Santorini Monday – Santorini Tuesday – take a flight from Santorini to Florence/Rome

Is it even worth it to have both Mykonos and Santorini on our itinerary, or we can just choose one?

Reason why we packed everything together is it’s our first time to visit Greece and may possibly be a long time before we come back.

That sounds like a fine itinerary. But if you’re really not interested in Athens you could save time by flying Italy to Mykonos, ferry to Santorini, fly Santorini to Italy. Mykonos and Santorini are very different so it’s not unreasonable to include both.

Dave: My family and I will be in Athens for 2 and half days, we land on saturday early evening and depart for Crete Tuesday afternoon. I have looked through your suggestions for Athens and plan to see the acropolis, acropolis museum, archeological museum, and the central market or maybe the Sunday market? Can you hire a guide at the acropolis for an informational tour or do you need to book in advance? If you can book there is that advisable and do you pay the guide’s entrance fee too? Which day would you go? Is the acropolis museum open every day? We will be there in two weeks so it will be mid march. We’d like to do more than wander at the acropolis, and feel a guide would be helpful. What do you suggest, we’d also like to avoid the most crowded days, is there a way to predict when it’s the busiest? Thanks Carla

Yes, there should be tour guides at the main gates of the Acropolis. They’re very good and definitely worth getting. You can arrange in advance if having a guide is a must.

Dave, We are planing our trip to Athens, Santorini, and Crete in July 21017. We are planing to rent a car for Santorini and Crete. Would you suggest to book car a head of time or at time of arrival? And what are best rental places on Crete and Santorini? Nataliya

Booking after you arrive will be fine 95% of the time. There are rental companies on every street and they’re all the same: friendly, a little shady, but all’s good in the end. One exception is if you are flying into Santorini it’s often easier to have a rental car reserved for airport pickup so you don’t have to queue for a taxi. More car rental info here .

Hi Dave, we are arriving to Athens at 2 am, our hotel is located in the Syntagma square, two blocks away from the bus station, is it safe to take the bus from the airport at 3 am? or should we take a taxi for sure? Thanks! Can´t stop reading your blog!

The bus itself is certainly safe. You might feel a little anxious as you walk to your hotel from the bus stop. I consider this a safe area but if you take a wrong turn or two you might be thinking, I wish we just took a taxi. So, I’d personally feel fine busing and walking but if you want easy and no-worries then the taxi is the way to go.

Dave, Do you know anything about the Red Bicycle in Santorini?

Lee K Richman

Great little place in Oia. Nice patio and views. Good food but expensive – as most places with a view are. Make reservations.

Are there any bad areas that I need to be aware of in Athens? My hotel is located in the Syntagma Square and the markets and Acropolis are like 20 minutes walking distance. Ashley

Syntagma is a safe busy area and walking between it and the Plaka, Acropolis, or Monastiraki areas is generally fine, day or night. The main artery between Syntagma and Monastiraki is Ermou. Anything south of here feels safe. As you move north of Ermou you’ll encounter areas that feel sketchy. It’s not that they’re that dangerous but, especially as night falls, they’re not an area you want to wander about. If you want to go to the Athens central market (which is to the north) then walk Ermou to Athinas and turn right.

Hi Dave, We are getting ready for our trip to Greece and will be starting in Athens, later Mykonos, Santorini and coming back to Athens for one night and fly home the following morning. We are flying from Santorini to Athens – we decided it’s a better option that taking a ferry back – but it seems the transportation from the airport to the hotel (in Piraeus) that night and morning after would add up to 120 Euros. We are thinking renting a car at the airport that night and returning it the following morning might be a cheaper option. What are you thoughts? Is it safe and easy to drive in Athens? The car rental seems to cost 40 euros and the parking would be 14. What should we be aware if we decided to go with a car rental instead of the private shuttle offered by the hotel. Thanks in advance!! PS: Love your blog!!

Natalia Rios

If cost is a concern then take the X96 bus from the airport to Piraeus for about 3€. Metro train requires a change at Monastiraki station and costs a little bit more – but is more pleasant.

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Acropolis of Athens Tour - Budget Edition, Same Experience, with Optional Skip-the-ticket line

Explore the iconic Acropolis with our expert licensed guides and enjoy crystal-clear commentary through personal earsets, ensuring you don't miss a word of the rich history and fascinating stories behind Athens' ancient landmarks.

Acropolis & Parthenon: History, Myths, & Masterpieces, Extended Edition

Escape the crowds and experience the Acropolis like never before! This extended, small-group tour offers early access, expert guidance, and ample time to explore the Acropolis' iconic monuments and capture breathtaking photos.

Early Entry: Acropolis & Museum. Beat the Crowds. Beat the Heat.

Discover the heart of ancient Athens in tranquility. Beat the crowds, beat the heat, and immerse yourself in history with our licensed guides.

First Access Acropolis Tour: Beat the Crowds, Enjoy the Parthenon!

Unveil the Acropolis' history in an intimate tour, away from crowds and heat. Join an enriching small-group experience with a knowledgeable licensed guide.

Acropolis of Athens Tour with Optional Skip-the-ticket line

Even with limited time, you can visit to the famous ancient Acropolis. In under two hours, we’ll guide you through the storied monuments which will also be an opportunity to take incredible panoramic photos of the capital.

Golden Hour Acropolis: Acropolis Museum & Acropolis Tour in the Afternoon Light

Explore the Acropolis Museum at noon, avoiding the heat and crowds, and visit the Acropolis of Athens in the afternoon on a small-group tour with a licensed guide.

Acropolis of Athens & the Acropolis Museum Tour with optional Skip-the-ticket line

In a few hours, see two of the city’s most visited sights. Explore the Acropolis and take panoramic photos. See the famous marble sculptures and works elegantly housed at the marvelous Acropolis Museum.

Athens City Tour & Acropolis Tour with Optional Skip-the-ticket line

Explore the most significant modern and ancient sights with our knowledgeable guides. Watch the Changing of the Guards and visit the Acropolis (including the Parthenon, the Nike Temple and more).

Athens City Tour, Acropolis & Acropolis Museum Tour with Optional Skip-the-ticket line

This tour sweeps through the historic city center, stopping at three of the most loved sights. Experience a visit to the Temple of Zeus and The Acropolis, then head to the Acropolis Museum to admire the marble masterpieces uncovered at the Acropolis.

Acropolis of Athens, Ancient Agora and the Agora Museum Tour

Explore the most fascinating ancient sights where democracy was born. Walk up to the Acropolis, stroll through a central marketplace that gathered the greatest thinkers of their time, and view the treasures at the Agora Museum.

Private Athens Cooking Lesson & Dinner

You will be initiated into the Greek cuisine, learn valuable cooking secrets and take a wonderful lesson with plenty of “hands on” preparation and cooking. After the lesson you will enjoy the dinner you prepared.

Private Acropolis, Acropolis Museum and Zeus Temple

This private tour is a history buff’s delight! It covers the three top "must see" landmarks of Athens, the Acropolis, the Acropolis Museum and the Zeus Temple. It is the perfect tour for visitors with limited time.

Acropolis & Athens Highlights with Food Tasting

Join this unique, worry-free and all-inclusive tour, to combine an extended guided visit to the most important landmark of Athens, the Acropolis, with a guided visit to Plaka, Athens's picturesque old town, and its most beautiful and unknown to many Athens visitors, part of Athens, the Anafiotika area. A food tasting during the tour of some typical Greek foods at the lively area around Monastiraki Square will round up the experience.

Athens Old Town Food Experience

Immerse yourself in the tastes and aromas of Athens on this delightful food tour. Led by a knowledgeable local host and food specialist, explore the bustling Athens Central Market and discover the must-try flavors of Greece, from traditional coffee and savory spanakopita to rich olive oil and creamy Greek yogurt.

Private Acropolis, Panathenaic Stadium and Plaka

This private tour covers most major monuments and attractions of the historical part of the city. Everything a visitor should visit at a limited time.

Private Acropolis Museum Tour

Visit the Acropolis Museum with your expert local licensed guide

Private Acropolis Tour

Enjoy a private tour at one of the most important monument of the antiquity.

Private Athens Food Tour

The Most Delicious Food Tour of Athens. Enjoy this unique private tour, in the non-touristy area of Athens and acquaint yourself with Greek cuisine in the company of your food specialist guide.

Private Acropolis & Acropolis Museum Tour

Visit the Acropolis and the Acropolis Museum with your expert licensed guide

Private Acropolis and Athens City Tour

This private tour covers most major monuments of Athens including a visit inside the Acropolis, with your friendly, knowledgeable and helpful guide! Let the Myths, the history, the beauty, the culture and the modern life of Athens be revealed to you on this fascinating tour.

Private Athens Top Attractions & Mythology Tour

A private tour for all mythology lovers! Embark on a journey to discover the links between the believable and the unfathomable on this fascinating private tour!

Private Athens Ancient Agora & the Agora Museum Tour

Inclusions:  Private Local licensed guide Skip-the-line service Exclusions:  Entrance fees Hotel pick-up and drop-off service Food and beverages Gratuities (gratuity rates in Greece are around 10% of service cost) What You Will See

Athens Street Culture & Food, off-the-beaten path, afternoon

Discover an alternative neighborhood of Athens, where artists and locals meet. While strolling around with the guidance of our passionate, full of enthusiasm leaders, see beautiful works of street art and taste sweet and savory street food.

Athens Food Tour

Enjoying Greek food is about the smells, the tastes and the flavors. In a central neighborhood, frequented by locals for its markets and restaurants, discover the diversity and the deliciousness of Greek food in a matter of hours.

Private Athens City Tour, Acropolis, Ancient Agora & the Agora Museum Tour

A private tour that covers the major archaeological sights of Athens, such as the Acropolis, the Zeus Temple and the Ancient Agora.

Athens Cooking Lesson & Dinner

The flavors of Greece will come alive as you cook some of the country’s most loved dishes. With expert guidance from a local cooking instructor, you’ll prepare a Greek Sunday dinner – then dine with your classmates under the majestic site of the Acropolis!

Avoid the Crowds: Acropolis Afternoon Tour with skip-the-ticket line service (Optional: include entrance ticket)

Discover the Acropolis in an intimate tour, avoiding crowds. Unveil Greece's history with a knowledgeable licensed guide in a small group. Iconic and enriching!

Shore Excursion: Acropolis, City Tour & Acropolis Museum with Transfer

This tour sweeps through the historic Athens city center, stopping at two of the most loved sights: the Acropolis and the Acropolis Museum. Visit the ancient monuments then delve into their significance at the nearby museum.

Shore Excursion: Athens Food Tour & Free Time in Plaka

Spend your limited time in the Greek capital discovering its incredible food scene. Discover the tastes and flavors of Greek food in a neighborhood frequented by locals for its markets and restaurants. This is a tour for foodies!

Acropolis Museum Tour

See the famous marble sculptures and works housed at the extraordinary Acropolis Museum. Its seamless modern lines elegantly incorporate artifacts exclusively from the Acropolis, and excavations are also visible under glass floors and walkways.

Shore Excursion: Acropolis, City Tour & Free Time in Plaka with Transfer

In under four hours, we’ll take you through historic districts, guide you up to the Acropolis to explore its monuments such as the graceful Parthenon, and show you the city’s most impressive panoramic spots along the way.

Private Acropolis of Athens, Ancient Agora and the Agora Museum Tour

With this private tour, you will get to visit the Ancient Agora, where the Ancient Greek democracy came to life and the Acropolis of Athens, this unique UNESCO heritage monument.

Private Acropolis & Athens Food Tour

A culinary and cultural experience of Athens! Visit the Acropolis and experience Greek and traditional products as you walk through the non touristy part of the city. Create memories that will last for a lifetime!

Private Acropolis, Monastiraki & Plaka, the Athens Old Town Tour

Take this private tour and discover the magnificent Acropolis monuments as well as the magical Plaka area with its secret corners.

Private Ancient Agora, Plaka & Monastiraki Tour

With this private tour you will visit the cradle of Democracy and Philosophy, the Ancient Agora and the Plaka, with its worth- seeing ancient monuments and the modern Flea Market. Enjoy the most fascinating tour with your knowledgeable guide.

Private Sunset Tour to Sounio

An afternoon scenic journey along the Athens Riviera and an amazing sunset overlooking the Aegean sea from the Temple of Poseidon.

Private Acropolis, City Tour and Acropolis Museum

This private tour covers the three top monuments of Athens: the Acropolis, the Acropolis Museum and the Zeus Temple.

Private Athens Street Culture & Food, off-the-beaten path

Explore a different side of Athens with our guided tour that takes you to a neighborhood frequented by artists and locals. Immerse yourself in the vibrant street art scene and indulge in delicious sweet and savory street food while being led by our enthusiastic and passionate guides.

Private Best of Athens Tour

This is a tailor-made tour for those who have already visited the Acropolis and would like to see much more of Athens! It is a leisurely walking tour which includes the most important landmarks and buildings of Athens.

Private National Archaeological Museum Tour

Enjoy a prehistorical journey by visiting the National Archaeological Museum!

Private Benaki Museum Tour

You visit a representative museum of Athens, with unique & extensive collections that cover several different cultural fields. The Benaki Museum ranks among the major institutions that have enriched the material assets of the Greek state.

Our guide was amazing, made a conscious effort to keep us cool. Stopping in the shade to talk and kept us engaged with relevant history/facts often relating it to where we were from.

Ryan | Jun 24 | Acropolis & Museum Tour

Niobe was fantastic, so knowledgeable and took wonderful care of us. It was warm but we always stopped in the shade. So much information on the history of Greece & the Acropolis. We had a wonderful walk. Recommend booking early morning if possible.

John | Jun 24 | Acropolis Tour

Very well organized tour. Extremely knowledgeable and friendly Guide. Seeing the temperatures and the crowds really the best way and time to visit the Acropolis.

Marco | Jun 24 | First Access Acropolis Tour

Margarita was the absolute best — amazing English, full of information, fun to hang out with, etc. Book this tour asap!

Jason | Jun 24 | Athens City, Acropolis & Museum Tour

Angel was a wonderful and entertaining guide! He provided great descriptions and cultural contexts for each delicious dish we enjoyed. Angel also provided excellent and informative histories of the various sites and places we passed on our tour. My wife and I raved about our experience with our family. I highly recommend this tour, and Angel as a guide.

Jack | Jun 24 | Athens Old Town Food Tour

Easy skip the line - early entry allowed for good photos without the crowd. Tour was quick (1.5 hours) and left most of the rest of the day to explore on our own.

Barry | Jun 24 | First Access Acropolis Tour

Rina was amazing for our first ever walking tour. Incredibly knowledgeable and very easy to listen to. We learnt and enjoyed it so much. Great experience - our 11 and 9 year old got so much out of it. Thanks Rina!

Nicola | Jun 24 | Athens City & Acropolis Museum

The Acropolis and museum tour was great. Alice provided good historical context and explanations without overwhelming with too many facts. We were so glad we did the tour vs. going on our own and learned a few things along the way. Definitely recommend.

Maya | Jun 24 | Acropolis & Museum Tour

We had such a great Acropolis tour, Niiloletta was such a personable and informative tour guide, we learned so much and the tour went a good pace where we were truly able to experience the history of Acropolis!

Y Tresnan | Jun 24 | Acropolis Tour

I loved everything about our tour but mostly I loved Margarita! She was wonderful! So knowledgeable, just lovely, took such good care of us! You should give her a raise! She certainly deserves one! Thank you Margarita for a perfect first day in Athens!

Kim | Jun 24 | Athens City, Acropolis & Museum Tour

Great tour! It’s a really special experience to be one of the first groups to climb the Acropolis, and Niobe was a friendly and knowledgeable tour guide! Would recommend this tour to anyone visiting Athens.

Rachel | Jun 24 | First Access Acropolis

This was the highlight of our Athens stay! Eva was excellent - she was super knowledgeable, warm, friendly and funny! We learned a ton about Greek culture and tasted some awesome authentic Greek food. Would highly recommend especially with Eva - we loved her!   

Kelly Cullen | May 24 | Athens Street Culture & Food

The private tour of the acropolis + museum was so much fun! My parents aren’t as agile as they used to be, and our guide Nikoletta was EXTREMELY accommodating and made sure they could both reach the top. She was also very knowledgeable and friendly. I would highly highly recommend this tour.

Leah Procopi | May 24 | Private Acropolis & Museum Tour

Orestis led our group of four on a fabulous tasting tour of authentic Greek food. He was very knowledgeable, pleasant, and lighthearted. Great experience, delicious food, so glad we did this tour!

Susan | May 24 | Athens Food Tour

Excellent choice. Our tour guide was fantastic, very knowledgeable, kind, sympathetic and embraced the history of Greece with quite interesting and rich presentation. Will definitely recommend it. 2-thumbs-Up !

Sergio del Lupo | May 24 | Acropolis of Athens Tour

Greece Tours from Athens

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10 best Greece tour packages from Athens

Compiled by

Melissa Greece travel expert at TourRadar

Greece Classic Tour

Classical tour greece nafplion, olympia, delphi, meteora (10 destinations), 5 day group tour in delphi, meteora, mykonos, delos, santorini,, cultural athens & island hopping mykonos - santorini (self-guided), greek island hopping (plus, 11 days), greek island odyssey, greek island hopping (standard, 11 days), 9 day private tour in santorini & mykonos from athens, 6 day tour athens & santorini island to discover greece's charm, explore athens, mykonos & santorini & stay at 4* hotels (3 inclusive activities).

• In-depth Cultural
• Visit the impressive sights of Mycenae
• See the Temple of Zeus in Olympia
• Stumble across epic architectural masterpieces

“Stops were well planned and very interesting. Good was great and overall an amazing experience!”

• Sightseeing
• Tour the ancient Olympic sites in Olympia
• Visit the Theatre of Epidauros and its acoustics
• Explore the Temple of Poseidon at Cape Sounio

“The itinerary was fast paced, but it was exactly what we wanted to see in the short time we had.”

• Coach / Bus
• Admire the Monasteries of Meteora standing between Earth and Sky
• Wander in Delphi, the spiritual and religious center of ancient Greece
• Village of Oia, a seaside village with the island’s best viewpoints

“Good overall lineup of pickups & transfers. Although Santorini sunset cruise was mediocre-”

• Island Hopping
• Catch the well-known Santorini sunset
• Explore the Gems of Athens
• Visit breathtaking Acropolis

“It was a great experience and a good sampling of islands. I had an amazing time with my friends.”

• Visit traditional villages and local bakeries in Paros
• Experience a speedboat safari and village life in Ios
• Dine in a local Naoussa restaurant and enjoy nightlife

“Phenomenal time with a great group. It was a real party!”

• Meet locals and learn about Naxian culture on an authentic village tour of Naxos
• Visit the Parthenon as you get guided tour of the Acropolis
• While away the hours on the stunning beaches of Naxos and Santorini

“The group was younger and the activities were things I might have planned myself. We are already thinking about which tour we'll do next.”

• See one of world's most famous sunsets in Oia
• Visit Santorini and go on a spectacular volcano cruise
• Hit some of the hottest clubs in Europe, Mykonos

“The Contiki trip was exactly what I wanted - adult spring break. I got to travel to some of the world's most picturesque destinations with a group of fun-loving party animals.”

• Visit the iconic Acropolis of Athens
• Admire the Breathtaking and romantic sunset in Fira town

“The Santorini Sunset Cruise and Knossos Palace/ Heraklion Archeological museum were the highlights of the trip.”

• Christmas & New Year
• Admire the Breathtaking and romantic sunset in Fira town, Santorini
• Immerse yourselves in the timeless charm of Athens with a visit to the iconic Acropolis

“The tour guides and drivers were all great.”

• Tour the iconic Acropolis and its museum
• Watch the sunset in picturesque Oia
• Explore ancient and modern Athens

“Our trip gave us a great sampling of Athens and two islands, Mykonos and Santorini.”

Tours starting from Athens

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Self-Guided Walking Tour Athens

This post is a free, self-guided walking tour of Athens's historic centre.

You can complete this tour in about 90 minutes, but you may want to take more time to explore the area.

Introduction

Athens is an ancient city and the modern capital of Greece.

This city has a history dating back thousands of years, so there are a number of notable landmarks worth visiting.

This tour will take you to dozens of the most historic locations in the city centre and some of the most photographed.

Experience both the hustle and bustle of large public squares and quieter streets of small neighborhoods.

We will begin the tour at Syntagma Square and circle around the centre of Athens, returning at the end to the same location.

You can expect to visit at least 17+ historic sites along the way.

Or, why don't you join us for one of our pay-what-you-wish walking tours of Athens ?

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1. Syntagma Square

Syntagma (meaning “Constitution”) Square sits in the heart of Athens. We start our tour in the center of this Square.

It was designed in the 1830s when King Otto moved the capital from Nafplio to Athens. 

Otto was a 17-year-old Bavarian prince who the powers that be crowned King at the end of the Greek War of Independence.

Originally called Palace Square, the spot was chosen because it was the highest point in central Athens.

Its name was changed to Constitution Square in 1943 when the Greeks revolted, demanding a liberal constitution.

Today the square is full of trees and statues, a fountain, and marble benches.

Over the years, one has found everything from a concert to a festival to a demonstration or simply a spot to meet up with friends. 

Other buildings on the square include a 5-star hotel with a rooftop bar, a terminal for the Athens Coastal Tram, and even a Mcdonald's restaurant.

Within the surrounding blocks are museums, restaurants, hotels, banks, and government buildings. 

Our next stop takes us across the square to Vasilissis Amalias Street.

 You'll see a massive and imposing building on the other side. 

Cross the street to the square in front of it.

2. Hellenic Parliament

This is the Hellenic Parliament or Greek Parliament building. The cornerstone of this neoclassical building was laid in 1836.  

Royals occupied the building into the early 1900s where, after a fire, it served as a museum and hospital, eventually becoming the Parliament building in 1929.

Our next step is there in the center front of the building.

3. Tomb of the Unknown Soldier

In front of the Parliament is the Tomb of the Unknown Soldier.

The tomb honors all who died, without a name, defending their country.

Evzones guard the tomb 24/7. These are members of the military who wear a traditional uniform that includes a fustanella (a stiff white kilt) and a red baize hat with a black tassel. 

They stand in pairs in perfect stillness until it’s time to change the guard.

This is something they do every hour of every day except on Sundays when there is a bigger and more popular procession called the Grand Change.

At 11:00 (am), this procession begins, requiring blocked-off streets as all of the Evzones gather and march together to music.

Go back to Vasillisis Amalias Avenue.

Turn left and head down the street.

4. National Garden

On the left is the National Garden , a 28-acre green oasis in the center of Athens.

The garden was originally commissioned by Queen Amalia, the first queen of Greece, in 1838 and was called The Queen's Garden.

It was designed by the German horticulturist Friedrich Schmidt and was initially known as the Royal Garden.

The garden was opened to the public in 1923 and was renamed the National Garden in 1927.

The National Garden features a wide variety of trees, plants, and flowers, including species from all over the world.

Some of the highlights include the botanical museum, a duck pond, a small zoo, and a children's playground.

The garden is also home to several ancient ruins, including the remains of a Roman aqueduct and a small temple dedicated to the goddess Nemesis.

The Garden is large and peaceful and a perfect place to find shade on a hot day. 

Keep heading south on Vasillisis Amalias Avenue.

As you walk further on you’ll come across the Zappeio Roman baths on the edge of the park

The Roman baths at Zappeion were built in the 1st century AD during the Roman period and were used for bathing and socializing.

The complex included hot and cold rooms, a swimming pool, and a system of underground heating to warm the floors and walls. The baths fell into disuse and were abandoned after the decline of the Roman Empire.

In the 19th century, during the reconstruction of Athens as the capital of the newly established Greek state, the Zappeion conference center was built over the ruins of the Roman baths. 

Keep heading south on Vasillisis Amalias Avenue .

As you're nearing the corner of Vasillissis Olgas Street , in the park on your left, you’ll see a statue of the famous British Poet Lord Byron.

And on your right, you’ll find our next stop.

5. Equestrian Statue of Alexander the Great

This bronze statue was created by sculptor Giannis Pappas in 1993 and was unveiled here, in its new location in 2019.

This is young Alexander, atop his beloved horse Bucephalus.

Alexander the Great and Athens had a difficult relationship.

In spite of taking the city in 335 BC and establishing a pro-Macedonian administration, he was respectful of Athenian tradition and learning.

Alexander rescued Athens from destruction following the city's takeover and permitted the Athenians to maintain their democratic system of government.

However, despite these actions, there were multiple uprisings against the Macedonian government since Alexander's rule in Athens was not well-liked by all Athenians.

Cross Vasillissis Olgas Street and continue walking a bit further down Vasillisis Amalias.

You can’t miss our next stop, which is there on your left.

6. Arch of Hadrian

The Arch of Hadrian, built in the second century AD, once spanned an ancient road as a gateway to Athens.

It made for a symbolic transition between old Athens and a new Roman suburb, Hadrianopolis.

In the 18th century, it became one of the main gates to the city, part of a defensive wall built around Athens by the Turks.

It’s believed that the citizens of Athens originally commissioned the arch’s design and construction, possibly in honor of the Roman emperor Hadrian.

Hadrian was an admirer of all things Greek and generously sponsored many projects in the city.

The design is similar to typical Roman arches of the time, built with solid marble although the top is similar to Greek arches.

The marble was mined from Mt. Pentelikon, 5 miles away, from the same quarry which supplied the marble used in the Parthenon.

There are two inscriptions on the arch.

On the western side facing the acropolis, it reads “This is Athens, the ancient city of Theseus”.

On the eastern side,  it reads, “ This is the city of Hadrian, not of Theseus”.

Just behind Hadrian's Arch is The Temple of Olympian Zeus

The Temple of Olympian Zeus was started just shy of 650 years before Emperor Hadrian eventually completed it.

The original plan was to make it the grandest of temples in the world, in honor of the Greek god Zeus.

Money issues, invasions, and the belief that the size was too big prevented the project from being completed back in the 6th century BC.

The site originally stood with 104 Corinthian columns (although the design at large is doric).

The floor of the temple measured 5,000 square meters, about the size of a football pitch.

The columns stood 15 meters high, or 50 feet and the site was adorned with statues of gods and a number of bronze statues of Hadrian himself. 

There was a massive statue of Hadian facing the Acropolis at the back of the Temple and, of course, one of Zeus. 

Sadly only 15 columns remain.

Some columns were taken to Rome, some were used in other projects, an earthquake destroyed others, and a few came down in a storm in the 1800s.

Our next stop is about 5 minutes away. 

Cross Vasillisis Amalia Avenue, the street which runs just in front of Hadiran’s Arch. It’s a busy street, so look for the crosswalk a little further down so you can safely get across.

Once across, you’ll want to get on Lisikratous. 

Following Lisikratous, you’ll walk for about three blocks through the Plaka neighborhood.

7. Plaka Neighborhood

The historic district, which is bordered by the neighborhoods of Monastiraki, Syntagma, and the Acropolis, is situated at the foot of the Acropolis hill.

It is one of the city's oldest and most scenic neighborhoods, with quaint, winding streets and classic buildings.

Neoclassical, Byzantine and Ottoman architectural styles are mixed throughout the neighborhood, and many of the structures are from the 19th century.

It’s also known for its many historic sites and landmarks.

Shopping and dining options are also plentiful in the Plaka district.

Tourists can browse the numerous gift shops, art galleries, and boutiques while dining at one of the many tavernas, cafes, or restaurants serving traditional Greek food.

At the end of the three blocks, you’ll run right into our third stop.

8. The Choragic Monument of Lysicrates

In the Plaka neighborhood, one finds a 2.7 meter (9 ft.) tall monument (a pedestal with a tripod) on what used to be a street lined with them.

These were prizes awarded to choregos.

A choregos was a wealthy citizen, appointed as an honor, who sponsored dramatic productions in ancient Athens.

As a patron, they paid for everything from costumes to the training of chorus members, to props, to feasts for winners of competitions. 

When a drama they had sponsored scored a victory in a competition, one of these tripods would be erected in their honor.

Lysicrates received a prize for his play and commissioned a monument to set it on.

The pedestal base is of marble. Corinthian-style half-columns stand above, and at the top are friezes of scenes from the play including Dionysus turning pirates into dolphins.

The tripod, long ago lost to history, would have stood atop.

As mentioned, the street, Tripodon street, used to be full of these tripods, although sadly only Lysicrates's remain.

It is thanks to some French Capuchin monks who incorporated it into their monastery library that it was protected. 

Although the monastery was destroyed in the 1800s during the Greek War of Independence, and the monument was buried in rubble, the French government paid for its eventual restoration.

At the south end of the square is Epimenidou street. Take the staircase there up towards the Acropolis.

At the top, turn right onto Stratanos street.

Follow Stratanos north, veering to the left just outside of the Holy Church of Saint George of the Rock where the street splits.

Keep walking along that street, which has no name, for a few minutes.

9. Anafiotika

The neighborhood of Anafiotika, part of Plaka, sits below the Acropolis and is one of the most charming in Athens.

Its narrow cobblestone streets and quaint semi-ramshackle homes look out over the ceramic tile roofs and skyline of Athens.

A short distance away are the restaurants, shops, hotels, museums, and historic sites that dot Plaka. 

These were once the homes of the workers who came to help refurbish King Otto’s palace. 

Many of the workers were from the island of Anafi, so named their little village on the hill Anafiotika (little Anafi).

The homes are similar to those on the islands, with white-washed walls and flat roofs.

These homes were quickly erected under nightfall while during the day they built grand homes for the elite of the city.

Sadly many homes were destroyed in the 1950s during archeological excavations and less than 50 remain today.  

Today the residents of this quiet neighborhood are mostly owned by the descendants of those who originally built the homes.

This was directed by a law stating they can only be passed on to family members (or sold to the Greek state).

Bright colors mark some doors and walls.

Flowering bougainvillea and other colorful plants line the walkways, making this a truly picturesque neighborhood.

If you’ve gotten off the unnamed road you came in on, to take a closer look at some of the neighborhood, get back onto it.

Follow it west, away from the direction in which you came.

At the first corner turn left, and follow that street until you hit Prytaneiou.

Turn left on Prytaneiou and follow that. 

That street turns into Tholou just past the Athens University History Museum.

Follow Tholou to Pansos, just past Orange Pub. 

Turn right onto Panos following it until you come to Polignotou.

10. Roman Forum of Athens (Roman Agora)

A significant public area in antiquity was the Roman Forum of Athens, often called the Forum of Caesar or the Forum of Augustus.

The Roman general Julius Caesar began construction on it, and his successor, Augustus, finished it in the first century BCE.

Many Classical-era structures had to be demolished in order to make room for the Forum.

Public speeches, court cases, and business dealings have all taken place there as well as other events intended for civic and commercial usage.

It also hosted the Temple of Caesar and a number of significant festivals and events, such as the birthday of Augustus.

Also on the site is the Tower of the Winds, which features sundials, a water clock, and a wind vane. It's considered the world's first meteorological station.

The site of the Roman Agora was partially restored in the 20th century.

Walking on, turn left and walk a block to Dioskouron.

Turn right here.

Take Dioskouron up a block, turning left before you get to the Gate of Athena, onto Pikilis.

Stop here on the corner and look ahead.

11. Stoa of Attalos

The large building you see ahead is the Stoa of Attalos, a covered walkway donated by Hellenistic Kind Attolos II of Pergamum as a gift to the city of Athens.

The walkway was colonnaded, running along the bottom of this marble and limestone two-story building. In ancient times, the upper level had a covered gallery with rooms for shops and offices.

The Stoa was part of the Ancient Agora, as are a number of other ruins in the area such as the Temple of Aphrodite Urania, and the Monument of the Eponymous Heroes.

The Agora was the location of significant political and cultural occasions over time, such as the assembly of the people, where residents would assemble to discuss crucial topics and make decisions that had an impact on the city.

Today the Stoa itself serves as a museum, holding an impressive collection of ancient Greek statues and giving visitors a sense of what ancient Athenian life was like.

Moving on, across the street, just a short jog over to the left, you’ll see Areos street. 

Turn right there.

Stay on Areos for just a block and a half.

On the right, you’ll find our next stop, the Library of Hadrian.

12. Library of Hadrian

The Library of Hadrian was yet another of Hadrian’s grand projects in his attempt to bring pride back to Athens. 

The library was styled after the Temple of Peace in Rome, with a portico of 100 columns.

It had large walls, and a garden with a pool in its center, all of it covering an area of about 10,000 square meters.

It’s hard to imagine today how impressive it appeared, with its white exterior walls and columns made of pink marble and green cipollini marble.

It’s believed that statues of gods stood atop the columns, sculpted out of white marble.

The interior was airy and peaceful, with a courtyard for relaxing. There were also reading rooms and amphitheaters for holding meetings or lectures.

Under the porticos, there was room for philosophical walks.

And there was a“bibliostasion”, a place where reading materials were kept inside wooden cupboards. 

It’s believed to have housed over 17,000 documents made up mostly of papyrus scrolls.

Over the centuries the library saw damage due to an invasion, became part of a fortification wall, and was renovated by various rulers.

There were also multiple churches and basilicas built/destroyed/and rebuilt within its courtyard.

At one point it became an administrative center for the Turks and was the site of bazaars, mosques, army barracks, and a prison. 

Today very little remains of what was once a truly magnificent structure.

The next stop on our tour is close by .

Get back onto Areos, continuing north and downhill, past Tzistarakis Mosque and into the center of Monastiraki Square.

Stop and take a look around you.

13. Monastiraki Square

The Monastiraki neighborhood gets its name from the monastery that occupied the area during Byzantine rule.

People have been living in the area for almost 6,000 years. Today Monastiraki Square stands at the center of this neighborhood.

The square is surrounded in and around by restaurants, cafes, bars, and hotels and is the perfect spot for people-watching.

It’s bustling with tourists and locals, street food vendors, and second-hand clothing sellers. 

The Monastiraki Flea Market runs along a side street making the square one of the main shopping areas of the city.

It’s not really a flea market in the traditional sense.

It's more like a line of stalls that for the most part sell cheap touristy items (t-shirts, flip-flops, hats, trinkets, etc).

One has to dig to find the better quality items - although they are there if you look.

On the square is the Tzistarakis Mosque, the one you just passed when leaving Hadrian’s library.

It was built in 1759 and named after the Ottoman military leader ruling the city. Today it’s a  museum of folk art.

If you’re interested, you might stop at the Monastiraki Metro Station to see excavated ruins uncovered when the metro station was built.

These ruins date back to the 8th century BC, during Hadrian’s rule.  

Moving on to our next stop, at the north end of the square is Ermou Street.

Turn right there and walk two blocks.

There in the middle of the street is our next stop, the Church of Panagia Kapnikarea.

11. Church of Panagia Kapnikarea

This tiny Orthodox church, dedicated to the Virgin Mary, is one of the oldest in Athens.  It was built around 1050, in the middle Byzantine period, on the site of an ancient temple.

There are three parts: a main church, the chapel, and the outer narthex - and unique red tiles on the exterior, covering the dome.

The icons in the church were painted by Photis Kontoglou and his students in the 1940s. They were hired to replace those that had been destroyed over time.

The mosaic of the Madonna and Child over the entrance was created by Elli Viola in 1936.

Visitors are welcome although proper attire is required.

Inside it is dark and quiet - with tall arches, hanging lamps, and candelabras.

One can pay a donation for a candle which can be lit and placed in a candelabra while saying a prayer.

The little church was firebombed by the Ottomans in 1689 but survived.

In 1832, after Greek independence and a focus on the rejuvenation of Athens, there was talk of demolishing or moving the church.

Instead, it was decided to leave the church and build a thoroughfare around it. 

Continuing on, heading away from Monastiraki Square, stay on Ermou for one block and turn right. 

At the end of that block, just across Mirtopoleous is our next stop.

4. Mitropoleos Square

Mitropoleos Square sits in the Monastiraki neighborhood of Athens.

The main attraction is the domed cathedral referred to locally as the “Mētrópolis“.

It is the epicenter of the Christian faith in Athens and was dedicated in 1842, although it feels more modern. 

Inside it’s bright and simple in comparison to most cathedrals, with exquisite artwork and marble carvings along with the tombs of two highly revered saints.

Its marble came from 72 other churches that had been demolished. All are welcome although guests are asked to dress respectfully.

Also on the square stand two statues.

One is of the last reigning Byzantine emperor of the Roman Empire, Constantine XI.

Constantine XI rallied Constantinople's defenders and led the charge against the invading Ottoman forces.

Once the city fell, the Ottomans began their rule throughout the former empire, including Athens. They at times interfered in the affairs of the Christain city and the church itself.

The other is of the Archbishop of Athens and All of Greece who served during World War II, also known as Archbishop Damaskinos.

He was particularly notable because he ordered that churches distribute baptismal certificates to Jews fleeing from Nazis.

Thousands of Jewish lives were saved from sure death due to his courage.

Turning back towards the cathedral, walk to the right side of the church.

Here you’ll find our next stop.

16. The Church of Agios (St.) Eleftherios, also known as the “Little Mētrópolis.

This tiny little Byzantine church was built in the 13th century, also on the ruins of an ancient temple. 

The church's façade is made of marble blocks, some of them embellished with inscriptions and reliefs.

Its interior is simple and made of stone, with a few icons on the walls. What used to be elaborate frescoes have all but faded away with only one remaining.

We’re nearing the end of our trip.

Trace your steps back up Evaggelistrias, to Ermou.

At the corner, turn right.

You on walking on Ermou Street, the primary shopping district in Athens

It is a pedestrian-only street that connects Syntagma Square and Monastiraki Square in the middle of the city.

A wide range of stores and boutiques, including both national and international chains, fill the streets of Ermou.

It is a well-liked spot for both locals and visitors searching for a variety of shopping alternatives, from high-end fashion and luxury goods to more budget-friendly apparel and souvenirs.

There are also some monuments and landmarks there, as well as street performers, and at times holiday decorations.

Ermou, as a whole, is a bustling and lively street that provides visitors to Athens with a distinctive shopping and cultural experience.

If you’d like to do some shopping, you could stop here. Or, you can continue back to where we started. 

Ermou street runs right into Vasilissis Amalias, and just across that, you’ll find Syntagma Square.

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The Best Tours In The Peloponnese, Greece

A guide to the best tours in the Peloponnese, Greece. You will find cultural tours, food tours, historical tours, outdoor activities and lots more!

The best activities and tours in the Peloponnese, Greece

Peloponnese is the southernmost region of mainland Greece. It’s easily accessible from Athens by rental car or public transportation.

Its rich history and culture, along with its unique landscapes and beautiful beaches, makes it an ideal region to explore for a few days, or an extended holiday.

Popular towns to visit in the Peloponnese include like Nafplio, Kalamata, Sparta and Gythio.

Some of the best known attractions are Ancient Mycenae, Ancient Epidaurus and Ancient Olympia, the castles of Methoni and Koroni, the Mani peninsula, Monemvasia castle, and many more.   

While you can explore the Peloponnese on your own, there are also plenty of organized activities you can take. Here are some of the best tours you can take in the Peloponnese, Greece.

1. From Athens: Day trip to Nafplio, Ancient Mycenae and Ancient Epidaurus

This full-day trip from Athens offers you the chance to see three of the most popular destinations in the Peloponnese: the town of Nafplion, and the UNESCO sites of Ancient Mycenae and Ancient Epidaurus.

Nafplion is a picturesque coastal town, full of neoclassical architecture and narrow cobblestone streets. Overlooked by the imposing Palamidi Fortress, Nafplion offers stunning views of the Argolic Gulf and is rich in history, having been the first capital of modern Greece.

Ancient Mycenae is the area where an early Greek civilization, known as the Mycenaean civilization, first appeared during the 2nd millennium BC. The on-site museum offers plenty of background information. 

Finally, the archaeological site of Ancient Epidaurus is one of the most important sites in Ancient Greece. Its impressive theater, where performances are still held these days, is world-known for its incredible acoustics.  

This tour is ideal if you want to see three of the Peloponnese highlights on a day trip from Athens.

Book your tour here:

• Private day trip to Nafplio, Mycenae and Epidaurus
• Small-group day trip to Nafplio, Mycenae and Epidaurus

2. From Athens: Follow St Paul’s footsteps: Letters to the Corinthians

This day trip from Athens offers a fascinating journey retracing the footsteps of St. Paul, one of the most significant figures in early Christianity. Among others, you will visit the following landmarks:

• Corinth Canal, an engineering marvel completed in the late 19th century
• The archaeological site of ancient Corinth, a city that was a major center of early Christianity, where St. Paul lived and preached for a significant period
• The castle of Akrokorinthos, perched high on a hill above the ancient city
• The church of St. Paul in the town of Corinth.

Book your tour here: St Paul’s footsteps tour

3. From Athens / Nafplio: Wine tasting in Nemea 

The area of Nemea in the Peloponnese is well-known around Greece for its unique and diverse wines. During this tour, you will visit three wineries, where you will see the production facilities and learn more about the process of wine-making. 

Then comes the best part: tasting a variety of wines, accompanied by a selection of delicious local products and delicacies. The tour guide, a wine expert, will offer more information on wine tastings and pairings.  

Book your tour here: Wine tasting in Nemea

4. Nafplio: Cooking class – traditional Greek food

One of the things that most visitors love about Greece is food! And there is no better way to get introduced to the food and dishes of Greece than a cooking class in Nafplion.

This hands-on class can easily be one of the highlights of your trip to the Peloponnese. You will also get to taste what you’ve created, along with some of the best wines of the area. 

Book your tour here: Cooking class in Nafplio

5. Nafplio: Sailing cruise

A half-day small-group cruise where you will be able to see Nafplio town from the sea. You can go swimming, snorkeling, fishing, or even try SUP. The cruise includes a meal and the delicious local Nemea wines.  

Book your cruise here: Nafplio sailing cruise

6. Epidaurus: Sea kayaking

An active and fun activity for all the family, offering a unique blend of history, adventure, and relaxation.

You will delve into the mysteries of the Ancient Sunken City of Epidaurus, one of the few places in Greece where you can see ancient ruins underwater. Paddling along the stunning coastline, you will reach a tranquil beach, a hidden gem that offers a perfect spot for relaxation.

Upon reaching the beach, you’ll have plenty of time to enjoy the natural beauty, swim and snorkel to discover the marine life beneath the surface. A traditional Greek lunch is included, providing a perfect conclusion to your adventure.

Book your tour here: Sea kayaking activity in Epidaurus

7. Ancient Olympia: The birthplace of the Olympic Games

Another important ancient site in the Peloponnese is the UNESCO site of Ancient Olympia . This is where the Olympic Games were first held in 776 BC, to honor Zeus, the King of the Ancient Greek Gods .

While you can visit Ancient Olympia on your own, there are also various tours you can take. Have a look at these ones:

• Guided tour of Ancient Olympia and the museum
• Day trip from Athens to Ancient Olympia
• Transfer from Katakolon cruise port to Ancient Olympia

8. Kalamata: Olive oil and wine tour with lunch

Kalamata olives are known around the world. It should come as no surprise that olive oil from the area of Kalamata, Messinia, is considered to be the best in Greece!

During this tour, you’ll get the chance to discover the secrets behind the best extra-virgin olive oil. You’ll stroll through olive trees in a local olive grove, learn about various olive types and their cultivation, and visit an olive oil mill to observe the extraction and bottling process.

After a thorough and comprehensive guided olive oil tasting, you will enjoy a delicious Greek lunch at a local taverna.

Book your tour here: Kalamata olive oil and wine tour with lunch

9. From Kalamata: Sea kayaking in Kardamyli

Another sea kayaking activity, this time in Kardamyli, at the foot of Mt Taygetus, about an hour south of Kalamata.

You will get to explore sea caves and hidden coves that you can only reach by sea, in one of the most beautiful areas of the Peloponnese. 

Book your tour here: Sea kayaking in Kardamyli

10. From Kalamata: Hike Polylimnio waterfalls

Did you know that there are waterfalls in many areas of Greece? The ones in Polylimnio, that are nearly 30 m (100 ft) tall, are among the most famous in the Peloponnese. The area is located about a 45-50 minute drive SW of Kalamata.

This guided hike, which takes about 3 hours, is ideal for anyone who likes nature, including families. You’ll have the chance to swim and dive at the falls – if you can tolerate the cold water!

Book your tour here: Hike Polylimnio waterfalls   

11. From Kalamata: White river rafting in Lousios River

Greece is famous for its beautiful beaches – but river rafting is another activity you can enjoy in certain areas of the country.

During this rafting experience, you will cross river Lousios and river Alfios, which is the largest one in the Peloponnese.  

In summer, when the rivers are calmer, this activity is suitable for everyone, even complete beginners and families with young children. No experience is required, and you are in for a day of fun and good memories.

The meeting point is about 90 minutes north of Kalamata.

Book your tour here: Lousios river rafting  

12. From Kalamata: Try scuba diving in Messinia

Explore the underwater world with an introductory class to scuba diving. You will learn how to use the equipment, and enjoy looking for marine life in the clear waters.

Due to the very nature of scuba diving, and to guarantee safety, this is a private experience.

Book your tour here: Scuba diving in Messinia

13. Sparta: Bring out your inner artist with a mosaic workshop 

For something completely different and unique, you can try a mosaic workshop in a nice, relaxing garden that will inspire your creativity and reveal the artist in you.

In this workshop, you will create your own mosaic, based on an existing Greek / Roman pattern of your choice, or even your own design. You will learn and follow mosaic techniques that have been used for 2,000 years. At the end of the workshop, you will take your work of art with you.  

Book your tour here: Mosaic workshop in Sparta

14. Gythio: Make your own olive oil soap

A unique workshop in Gythio, where you will learn how to make soap using olive oil from the Peloponnese along with various aromatic substances. You will also make your own lip balm, using olive oil and beeswax.

Book your tour here: Olive oil soap workshop in Gythio

Hi! I’m Vanessa from Athens and I love travelling around Greece and the Greek islands. Follow me on my social media: 

• Facebook page and very active Facebook group
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