This full-day tour begins with a convenient morning pick-up by bus and your guide. Once collected, we will park the bus and explore Athens on foot. The pick-up time will be provided upon booking, whether you choose to join a regular group tour or opt for a private tour. Pick-up locations include Piraeus Harbour, Athens Airport, or your hotel, depending on your tour preference.
To visit Athens Acropolis – Monumental Gateway – Parthenon – Erechteion will take about 2 hours
Once all guests have been collected, the tour will commence with a visit to the Parthenon, undoubtedly the number one attraction in Athens. People from all walks of life come to Athens specifically to witness this magical site, as no visit to the city would be complete without it. Upon reaching the Parthenon, we will ascend the hill, passing by the Temple of Athena Nike along the way. This temple, where Athena was worshipped as the protector of Athens during times of war, remains remarkably well-preserved to this day. Following the Temple, we will proceed through the grand Propylaea, a monumental gateway constructed between 437 and 432 B.C., offering breathtaking views before entry. Continuing onward, we arrive at the iconic Parthenon, visible from every corner of Athens, radiating majestically over the city below, much like the sun in the sky. Built as a tribute to Athena, the Parthenon is an architectural marvel and provides the perfect backdrop for unforgettable photographs to cherish. Adjacent to the Parthenon stands the Erechtheion, a smaller structure steeped in legend, believed to be the site where Athena first planted the olive trees by casting the seeds to the ground.
To visit Hadrian's Gate – the Temple of Olympian Zeus will take about 30 minutes.
After exploring the captivating site of the Acropolis, we will descend and proceed to Hadrian’s Gate, also known as The Arch of Hadrian. Situated not far from Syntagma Square, this impressive structure is nestled between the rock of the Acropolis and the Temple of Olympian Zeus. Crafted from exquisite marble and towering at a height of 18 meters, the gate boasts a symmetrical design reminiscent of Roman arches. Interestingly, the true origins of its construction remain shrouded in mystery, yet its symbolic significance is clear—it marked the boundary between ancient Athens and Hadrian’s new city.
While in the vicinity, we will visit the Temple of Olympian Zeus, a grand monument dedicated to the revered god, Zeus. Once the largest temple in all of Greece, towering even above the Parthenon, this monumental structure stands at the heart of Athens. Originally soaring to a staggering height of 17 meters and featuring 104 Corinthian columns, only 15 columns remain standing today due to centuries of wear and tear. Among its most renowned features was a magnificent gold and ivory statue of Zeus, counted among the wonders of the ancient world. Despite the loss of much of its former glory, the temple still offers breathtaking views, with the iconic Parthenon serving as a striking backdrop.
To visit Panathenic Stadium - National Royal Gardens will take about 1 hour
Continuing our journey, we will stroll together to visit the Panathenaic Stadium, located nearby. This remarkable stadium holds the distinction of being the only one in the world constructed entirely of marble. Renowned not only in Athens but throughout Greece, it was originally built in the 4th century B.C. Over the centuries, it has undergone numerous transformations, but it was in the late 19th century that architects restored it to its current form.
During its heyday, the stadium hosted various track events and championships for nude male athletes. With a seating capacity of 50,000 spectators, one can only imagine the bustling atmosphere it once experienced. As you explore the stadium grounds, you'll still sense the vibrant energy of the crowds from days gone by.
Just a brief 10-15 minute walk from the stadium lies the National Royal Gardens, known for its historical significance and natural beauty. Originally belonging to the palace where the Greek royal family resided, these gardens were exclusively reserved for the enjoyment of kings and queens. Today, they are open to the public and offer a tranquil retreat from the hustle and bustle of the city. Lush with a diverse array of trees from around the world, the gardens boast vibrant colors and fragrant aromas. Situated alongside a meandering stream, they provide a serene oasis, ideal for relaxation on a warm summer day.
To visit Zappeion & Syntagma Square / Parliament Building ( Change of Guards ) will take about 1 hour
Just a brief 5-minute stroll away, we'll arrive at Zappeion, a neoclassical building of immense significance to Athens. This architectural gem is steeped in modern history, serving as a venue for both public and private exhibitions and ceremonies. In 1869, the Greek government allocated 80,000 square meters of public land for the construction of Zappeion, strategically situated between the royal palace, the National Gardens, and the ancient Temple of Zeus. Remarkably, Zappeion was the world's first building erected exclusively for the Olympic Games. Over the years, it has hosted a plethora of notable events, often with political undertones. Dubbed the "Small Parliament" due to its proximity to key governmental institutions, it served as a gathering place for elder Athenians engaged in political discourse.
Continuing our journey, we'll make our way to the vibrant Syntagma Square. This square derives its name from the constitution that King Otto of Greece was compelled to grant following a military uprising in 1843. Here, we'll encounter the Memorial of the Unknown Soldier, solemnly guarded around the clock by Evzones. If we're fortunate enough to witness the changing of the guard ceremony, it's a truly magnificent sight, as the Evzones don their distinctive traditional uniforms. Nearby, two stairways and an elevator provide access to Syntagma Metro Station, which boasts its captivating museum showcasing artifacts discovered during its construction.
Continuing our stroll, we'll pass by the Numismatic Museum. Established in 1834, this expansive museum houses a vast collection of coins, medals, and precious stones spanning ancient to modern times, making it a repository of immense historical significance.
To visit Akademi - University & National Library will take about 1 hour (short visits)
As the day draws to a close, our final destination awaits – the Akademi, the library, and the university, conveniently situated side by side for easy exploration. Our first stop is the Akademi, a striking edifice constructed by a Danish architect and adorned with magnificent statues of Apollo, Athena, and Socrates, courtesy of Greek financing.
Adjacent to the Akademi stands Athens University, established in 1837. Both its interior and exterior are adorned with captivating wall paintings depicting scientific advancements and the revival of arts, providing ample opportunities for your camera and eyes to capture the beauty of these remarkable works.
Our last leg of exploration leads us to the National Library, a veritable treasure trove renowned not only for its architectural splendor but also for its invaluable contents. Housing over 5,000 manuscripts dating from the 9th to the 19th century, along with a vast array of historical documents and archives, the library safeguards a rich tapestry of culture and history. It's a place where one can easily become immersed in the fascinating tales woven by ancient Greeks.
Upon conclusion of our tour, your guide will escort you to the bus meeting point. From there, you'll be dropped off at your designated drop-off points, where you can unwind and reflect on the enriching experiences of the day.
*This Athens Walking Tour is available all year round in private.
INCLUSIONS
*Pick up and Drop Off
*Professional Licensed Guide
*Parking Fees
*Transport and Driver
EXCLUSIONS
*Lunch – Drinks
*Entrance Fees
*Gratitude’s
ACROPOLIS AND PARTHENON
General admission fee: €20
The price is reduced by 50% during winter (1 November and 31 March). Children under 18 (with proof of ID), students and others (scroll down for the full list) pay €10 for their tickets (€5 during winter). Entry to the Acropolis not only gives you access to the Citadel (where you can see the Parthenon and the Erechtheion) but also the North and South slopes, where you will find the Odeon of Herodes Atticus and the Theatre of Dionysus – amongst other features.
ROMAN AGORA TICKET
General admission fee: €8, Reduced: €4
Ancient Agora of Athens - Museum of Ancient Agora of Athens
Special ticket package: Full: €30, Reduced: €15
According to the common ministerial decision ΥΠΠΟΑ/ΓΔΑΠΚ/ΔΜ/ΤΑΜΣ/Φ32-Φ56/370862/218709/12209/7831 (FEK 2916 b’/31.12.2015) from the 1st of April 2016 the ticket price for the site (Ancient Agora and Museum of Ancient Agora of Athens) changes to 8 Euros (reduced 4 Euros). The price for the unified ticket changes to 30 Euros (reduced 15 Euros) and has valid for 5 days. Valid for: Acropolis of Athens, Ancient Agora of Athens, Archaeological Museum of Kerameikos, Archaeological Site of Lykeion, Hadrian's Library, Kerameikos, Museum of the Ancient Agora, North slope of Acropolis, Olympieio, Roman Agora of Athens, South Slope of Acropolis.
THE PANATHENAIC STADIUM
General Admission ticket :5,00 € Reduced Admission ticket , 2,50 € (students and visitors over 65 year old).
Visitors with diasbilities and person accompanying them Free Admission ticket Children under 6 years of age free entrance.
TEMPLE OF OLYMPIAN ZEUS
General Admission ticket :6,00 € Reduced Admission ticket , 3,00 € (with Acropolis pass free,students and visitors over 65 year old).
