A 2-hour Athens tour offers a time-pressed visitor a quick yet enriching experience. It provides a glimpse into the city's rich history and culture, highlighting key landmarks. This short tour efficiently covers iconic sites while offering insights into Greek heritage. Perfect for busy travelers, it allows one to capture the essence of Athens in a condensed, manageable timeframe, combining education with breathtaking views. The drop off points of the tour can be some of the busiest landmarks of the city like Acropolis, the Parthenon, Plaka area or Monastiraki Square so the traveler can visit these sites in their own pace!
Inclusions & Exclusions
✔ Private transportation
✔ Bottled water
✔ On-board WiFi
✔ In-vehicle air conditioning
✔ Fluent english speaking driver
✔ Hotel or Apartment pickup and drop off
✖ Gratuities
Pickup Locations
1. Foivos Hotel Athens
2. Alter Athens Hotel
3. Ruby Rooms Athens
4. Zenith Hotel
5. Athens City Plaza
6. Wyndham Athens Residence
7. Apollo Hotel
8. Titania Hotel
9. Athens Zafolia Hotel
10. Philippos Hotel
11. The Editor Athens Hotel
12. Vision Omonia
13. Anixis
14. Crowne Plaza Athens - City Centre, an IHG hotel
15. Novotel Athenes
16. Hotel Tier Collection
17. Hotel Bryon
18. Bob W. Eolou Athens
19. Ambrosia Suites
20. Exarchion Hotel
Additional Info: Pick up and drop off are included by any location. Our drivers always arrive at your location 5 minutes before the time you have set for the beginning of your experience.
Pickup from the port comes with 40€ additinal cost.
Your location details are required during the booking process (hotel name or apartment full address, ship name in case of port pickups).
Itinerary
1
The Temple of Olympian Zeus, situated in Athens, Greece, is a colossal marvel of ancient architecture and mythology. Commissioned by Athenian tyrants in the 6th century BCE, its construction spanned centuries, culminating in the 2nd century CE. Dominating the cityscape, the temple housed a colossal chryselephantine statue of Zeus, though only a few columns and ruins remain today.
With Corinthian columns reaching 17 meters in height, the temple exuded grandeur and ambition. Its sheer scale reflects the aspirations of ancient Athens. Dedicated to the king of the gods, Zeus, the temple's remnants transport visitors to a bygone era, evoking awe and appreciation for ancient Greek engineering and religious devotion. The site, now an archaeological gem, stands as a testament to the enduring legacy of Greek civilization.
Duration: 15 minutes
2
Statue of Alexander the Great
Alexander the Great, born in 356 BCE, was a visionary military tactician and one of history's most influential leaders. He ascended to the Macedonian throne at age 20 after the death of his father, King Philip II. Fueled by a desire for conquest and guided by the teachings of his tutor Aristotle, Alexander embarked on a relentless military campaign, creating one of the largest empires in history.
Known for his strategic brilliance, Alexander conquered vast territories across Asia, from Greece to Egypt, Persia, and beyond. His military success was coupled with a cultural assimilation policy, blending Greek and Persian influences, creating the Hellenistic civilization. Despite his untimely death in 323 BCE, possibly due to illness or poisoning, Alexander's legacy endured, leaving an indelible mark on history, inspiring military leaders and shaping the course of civilizations for centuries to come.
3
Panathenaic Stadium
The Panathenaic Stadium, also known as Kallimarmaro, is an iconic ancient stadium nestled in the heart of Athens, Greece. Constructed entirely of white marble, it stands as a historical masterpiece and a symbol of Greek athletic heritage. Originally built in the 4th century BCE, the stadium underwent extensive reconstruction in the 2nd century CE, resulting in its present form.
This horseshoe-shaped arena hosted the Panathenaic Games, a significant athletic event in ancient Greece. With a seating capacity of around 50,000, the stadium became the venue for the revival of the modern Olympic Games in 1896. Surrounded by lush greenery and offering panoramic views of Athens, the Panathenaic Stadium continues to capture the spirit of ancient athleticism, serving as both a historical landmark and a living tribute to the enduring legacy of the Olympic movement.
Duration: 15 minutes
4
Hellenic Parliament
The Hellenic Parliament, located in Athens' Syntagma Square, is the unicameral legislative body of Greece. Housed in a neoclassical building originally constructed as a royal palace in 1843, it has been the seat of Parliament since 1934. The building is an iconic symbol of Greek democracy and governance. Outside, the Tomb of the Unknown Soldier is guarded by the Evzones in traditional attire. The Parliament is central to Greek political life, hosting legislative sessions and significant national even
Duration: 15 minutes
5
The Tomb of the Unknown Soldier in Athens is a solemn and symbolic monument located in Syntagma Square. Erected in 1932, it pays tribute to Greek soldiers who sacrificed their lives in wars, particularly in World War I. Guarded by the Evzones, elite soldiers in traditional attire, the monument is a focal point for national remembrance.
The tomb itself is a marble structure adorned with sculpted reliefs depicting scenes of battle and mourning. An eternal flame burns at its center, symbolizing the perpetual memory of the unknown soldiers. The changing of the guard ceremony, marked by precise and ceremonial movements, occurs regularly and attracts visitors from around the world.
Surrounded by neoclassical buildings and the Hellenic Parliament, the Tomb of the Unknown Soldier stands as a poignant reminder of sacrifice and valor, embodying the spirit of Greek national identity and resilience.
Duration: 15 minutes
6
The Academy of Athens
The Academy of Athens, founded in 1926, is Greece's premier research institution, inspired by Plato's ancient academy. Situated in a neoclassical building in central Athens, it features striking architectural elements, including statues of Athena and Apollo. The Academy promotes scientific research, humanities, and fine arts, housing various research centers and libraries. Its impressive facade and grand interior make it a significant cultural and intellectual landmark, embodying Greece's rich educational heritage.
7
National and Kapodistrian University of Athens
The National and Kapodistrian University of Athens, established in 1837, is Greece's oldest and largest university. Located in central Athens, it features a neoclassical architectural style, particularly evident in its historic main building, part of the famed "Athenian Trilogy." The university offers a wide range of undergraduate and postgraduate programs across various disciplines. It is a leading institution in education and research in Greece, with a vibrant academic community and significant cultural influence.
8
National Library Of Greece
The National Library of Greece, located in Athens, is a cornerstone of Greek literary and historical heritage. Founded in 1832, it occupies a grand neoclassical building designed by Theophil Hansen, part of the "Athenian Trilogy" alongside the Academy of Athens and the University of Athens. The library houses extensive collections of manuscripts, rare books, and documents, playing a crucial role in preserving Greece's cultural legacy. Its modern facilities also support digital archives and public research, making it a vital academic resource.
9
Lycabettus Hill
Lycabettus Hill, towering 300 meters above Athens, Greece, is an iconic landmark and natural vantage point offering panoramic views of the city below. Crowned by the Chapel of St. George, the hill's rocky ascent provides a scenic escape from the urban hustle. Legend has it that Athena accidentally dropped a rock here while carrying it to the Acropolis, forming Lycabettus.
Accessible by a winding path, the summit rewards visitors with breathtaking vistas of Athens, the Aegean Sea, and the surrounding mountains. The hill's lush vegetation and the chapel's charming presence contribute to its allure. At sunset, Lycabettus transforms into a romantic spectacle, casting a golden glow over the city. The vantage point has become a popular spot for both locals and tourists seeking a peaceful retreat and an unparalleled perspective on the enchanting city of Athens.
Duration: 15 minutes
10
Parthenon
During this tour we stop and gaze at the Parthenon, a majestic temple atop Athens' Acropolis, was dedicated to Athena, the city's patron goddess. We do not enter the site!
Built between 447-432 BCE, it exemplifies Classical Greek architecture, featuring a rectangular structure with 46 outer Doric columns and a frieze depicting mythological scenes. Made of Pentelic marble, it housed a massive statue of Athena Parthenos. Despite damage over centuries, it remains a symbol of ancient Greek culture and architectural brilliance.
Duration: 15 minutes
11
Acropolis
During this tour we stop and gaze at the Acropolis, an enduring symbol of ancient Greek civilization and architectural prowess. We do not enter the site!
Dominating the city skyline, this citadel houses several iconic structures. Built in the 5th century BCE, the Acropolis reflects classical Greek ideals with its Doric columns, intricate friezes, and meticulous symmetry.
Despite enduring centuries of war, weathering, and reconstruction, the site remains an unparalleled testament to the achievements of ancient Athens. The elevated location offers panoramic views of the city below, creating a captivating blend of historical grandeur and contemporary urban life, making the Acropolis a UNESCO World Heritage site and a destination that continues to inspire awe and admiration.
Optional drop off spot of the tour if you want to explore the landmark in your own pace!
Duration: 15 minutes
Additional info
• Service animals allowed
• Suitable for all physical fitness levels
• Available child seat and booster
• Download the "WhatsApp" application for easier communication with your driver
