Old Athens + Acropolis Tour
Description
Embark on a captivating journey through ancient Athens and the Acropolis, where history unfolds at every turn. This tour allows you to explore significant sites, including the majestic Parthenon and the vibrant districts of Monastiraki and Plaka.
Tour Overview
We will convene at 26 Athanasiou Diakou at the appointed time, marking the start of our enlightening tour of ancient Athens. Here, we will uncover the profound history of a city that traces its roots back over three millennia.
The first highlight will be Hadrian's Arch and the magnificent Temple of Olympian Zeus, renowned as the largest temple in Greece during the Hellenistic period. Following this, we will make our way to the iconic Acropolis of Athens, a renowned archaeological site that attracts visitors from around the globe.
As we enter the archaeological site via the Propylaea, the ancient gateway, we will marvel at the Parthenon, the Temple of Athena Nike, and the Erechtheion. Throughout this segment, we will delve into the intriguing aspects of their architectural design and the role they played in ancient society, providing a deeper understanding of Hellenistic culture.
Our exploration continues with a visit to the Odeon of Herodes Atticus, a venue once alive with musical performances, and the bustling Agora, the heart of social, political, and economic activity in ancient Athens. We will also appreciate the Neoclassical architecture of the National Observatory of Athens while ascending to a scenic overview that reveals the stunning hills of Philopappos, Mars, and Pnyx.
Proceeding through the Monastiraki area, we will encounter the remnants of Hadrian's Library and explore the intriguing Tower of the Winds. Are you curious about its purpose? We'll uncover that shortly!
To conclude our tour, we will stroll through the picturesque Athenian neighborhoods of Plaka and Anafiotika, wrapping up our journey approximately 3.5 hours after we began at our departure point in Anafiotika.
Acropolis Admission Tickets
For those interested, there is an option to reserve the guided tour of the Acropolis without tickets. If you choose this route, you will need to secure your own admission ticket, aligning with the timing of the guided experience. For an 8 am booking, ensure your ticket corresponds to the 8 am to 9 am slot; for an 8:45 am booking, the appropriate ticket would be for 9 am to 10 am.
Please be aware that availability of tickets on the day of the tour at the Acropolis ticket office is not guaranteed, so we highly suggest obtaining them online in advance.
EU citizens under 25 and non-EU citizens under 18 are eligible for complimentary entry with valid ID presented at the ticket counter. Adults over 65 can receive a 50% reduction, applicable only at the ticket office or the official Acropolis website. If members of your party qualify for these discounts, opting for the guided tour without tickets is advisable, enabling you to purchase your tickets ahead of time and take advantage of the complimentary access for applicable groups.
What's included
- English–speaking guide
- Entrance tickets (depending on selection)
Cancellation policy
Cancellazione gratuita fino a 24 ore prima (local time)
Accessibility
Not wheelchair accessible.
Important information
We'll meet 15 minutes before the selected time at Key Tours offices. The address is 26, Athanasiou Diakou, Athens 11743. The nearest metro station (only 3 minutes walking distance) is Acropolis.
We recommend wearing comfortable clothes and shoes.
Ticket Info
EU citizens under 25 and non-EU citizens under 18 may enter free of charge by presenting their ID at the ticket office. Adults over 65 will have a 50% discount, only at the ticket office or on the Acropolis website.
To purchase free or discounted tickets, you must show an identity card or passport.
Baby strollers are not allowed at the Acropolis. You will have to leave them at the Key Tours office and carry babies in your arms during the visit.
Tour Without Tickets
If you have booked the tour without tickets, you will have to buy your own ticket at the entrance to the Acropolis, taking into account the timetable of the guided tour. If you book the tour at 8 am, you'll need to purchase tickets for the 8 am to 9 am time slot; if you book the tour at 8:45 am, you'll need to purchase tickets for the 9 am to 10 am time slot.
Closing of Monuments
Please note that the monuments will be closed due to a holiday in Greece on the following dates: January 1, March 25, April 12, May 1, December 25, and December 26.
Additional Info
Sometimes tours can get mixed up with other groups, so it's important that you follow the guides' instructions carefully. After the visit to the Acropolis, you should keep an eye out for the meeting point to continue with the second part of the tour to avoid possible confusion.
You might also like
Athens Riviera Cruise
On this boat cruise along the Athens Riviera, you'll admire one of the lesser-known Greek coastlines and swim on the ...
Athens Philosophy & Democracy Tour
Calling all history buffs! What legacy did Plato and Socrates leave behind? Join us to find out on this fascinating t...
Electric Bike Tour of Athens
Explore Athens on an electric bike! With this guided cycling tour, we'll experience the rich history and culture of t...
Meal at the Dinner in the Sky Restaurant in Athens
Enjoy excellent panoramic views of Athens while enjoying a dinner served 40 m up in the sky at the Dinner in the Sky ...