Lynn H.United States
Maria was a fantastic guide—very knowledgeable and personable. She speaks excellent English and connected well with our group.
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Private tour in Athens Maria S
This is Athens! A complete orientation tour
5.0
(35) reviews
-
3 hours
Walking
Private tour for 1-6 people
Your party size
1
Tour date
View our cancellation policiesUpgrade for total flexibility with Any Reason Cancellation
Book with a depositSecure your tour today and pay your balance later
-
3 hours
Walking
Private tour for 1-6 people
Your party size
1
View our cancellation policiesUpgrade for total flexibility with Any Reason Cancellation
Book with a depositSecure your tour today and pay your balance later
Maria S.
5.0
Guide rating
458
Reviews
Tours delivered
13 hrs
Avg. response time
Greetings! I'm Maria, an archaeologist and licensed tour guide with 29 years of experience, accredited to guide you through all museums and archaeological sites in Greece. My passion for history, mythology, ancient art, religion and architecture led me to a Bachelor's degree in Archaeology (1992), postgraduate studies in Ancient Buildings Restoration and Urban development at the Department of Architecture at NTUA (1994), and a Master's in PR, Marketing, and Advertising from the Hellenic American Union (2004). I’ve worked on archaeological excavations of several Bronze Age burial sites in Western Greece and served as a cultural consultant for a UNESCO Goodwill Ambassador for four years. Since 1997, I’ve guided tours with leading operators, and since 2017, as a freelancer, I design private tours and provide travel consultation based on my extensive experience and valuable feedback from travellers on what makes the "perfect tour". With 15 unique tour options, I cater to all interests, from ancient history, archaeology and architecture to culture and politics, for groups of 1 to 40 people.All tours are private and can be arranged to start from your hotel, central meeting points that are easily accessible, or from the cruise terminal, if you're interested in a shore excursion. Do not hesitate to contact me for details. Expect a thoughtfully crafted itinerary full of fascinating insights, memorable experiences, and captivating stories. As a food enthusiast, I’ll also lead you to the best dining spots, from Michelin-starred restaurants to hidden gems. I look forward to welcoming you to Athens and sharing an enriching adventure through its rich history, culture, and daily life! *Archaeologist (University of Ioannina) * Licensed Tour Guide (Athens School of Tour Guides ): accredited by the National Tourism Organisation, to deliver guided tours into all archaeological sites and museums in Greece since 1997.
Have a question or want to customize this tour? Message Maria S.
Join the dots and experience our beloved city like a true Athenian
Overview of your Athens tour
Driven by the inquiries of my guests seeking the ideal introduction to Athens beyond the Acropolis, I present this tour as the answer to the question: "Apart from the main archaeological sites, where would you take a dear friend visiting Athens for the first time to provide the perfect orientation and the true feeling of the city?" This tour, first introduced in the 2022 season, is not only for first-time visitors but also for seasoned travellers who want to experience the city like a local. Delve into the history, architecture, politics, culture, food, and mythology, combining past and present during our 3-4 hours walking tour. This tour is not recommended for people facing walking difficulties
Recent Reviews
Kimberly R.United States
Maria is a real pro. She is extremely knowledgeable and her English is better than many native speakers. She knows how to avoid the really big crowds and her restaurant suggestions were amazing!
Roger B.United States
Maria gave a great combined driving/walking tour of Athens for my wife and me. This was our second visit to Athens, and she carefully focused on things that we had not seen on our first trip. She also was very mindful of my wife's fear of heights. She is very knowledgeable and is a pleasure to be with. I would highly recommend her for anyone seeking a guide for touring Athens.
Robert H.United States
We had tours for three days with Maria and it was a fabulous experience. Her knowledge of the ancient sites, Greek history and concise tours of the museums were amazing. She arranged all our transportation and made great dining recommendations. We enjoyed our discussions of modern Greek culture and her open and thoughtful opinions. She is one of the best tours-by-locals that we have ever had. A thoroughly delightful and lovely person. Highly recommend her.
Robert K.United Kingdom
Maria is fabulous. The best ToursByLocals guide I’ve ever had. See my review of her other Athens tour — the Acropolis.
Michael D.United States
Amazing. Great intro to Athens
Your Athens tour itinerary
This is a well-balanced walking tour, on and off the beaten track, around the historical districts, local neighbourhoods and some of Athens' hidden gems. Short stops and breaks for coffee, local snacks, delicacies etc. (Important note: this is not a food tour) * Plaka, the old town district, on and off the tourist track * Temple of Zeus-Hadrian's Arch (outside) * Zappeion and National Gardens * Syntagma square and the Athens Metro: ranked among the top 10 metros globally, discover its arts exhibits and unique archaeological displays. * Athens flavors: Enjoy coffee at one of our best cafes, explore Greek pastry and delicacies shops, and savor the famous Greek souvlaki and pies! * Athens downtown area: Central food market & Monastiraki flea market
Want to customize this tour?
Tell your guide which places matter to you, skip what doesn't, and tailor the experience for your group's needs. Not finding what you want? Message your guide to build something unique.
Transport details
Type: Walking
This is a walking tour, so wear comfortable walking shoes. If walking is challenging, a private vehicle with a driver can be arranged upon request.
What's included
Private Guide
What's not included
Public Transportation
Food Drinks Snacks
Meeting location
Athens, Greece
ByGuide: Depending on the location of your hotel / accommodation, I could meet you there and start the tour. Otherwise, I will indicate a specific meeting spot which is convenient for our itinerary. Please contact me for further details.
- You can request a specific meeting location (for example, your hotel) during the checkout.
Other details
Tour categories
City Highlights
History
Food And Drink
Tour reference number
214959
Languages
English
Greek
FrenchActivity level
Light
Accessibility
Kid Friendly
Traveller reviews
5.0
FAQs
Who is this private tour in Athens best suited for?
This private tour in Athens is perfect for both first-time visitors and seasoned travellers who want to experience the city like a local. It's designed for those interested in delving into the history, architecture, politics, culture, food, and mythology of Athens. However, it is not recommended for people facing walking difficulties.
What should I bring or wear?
Can this private tour in Athens be customized to focus on what I want to see and skip places I've already visited?
How long is the tour, and can the start time or duration be adjusted?
Where does the tour start and end?
Is transportation included?
How much walking is involved, and is it suitable for kids, seniors, or travellers with mobility concerns?
What languages is this tour offered in?
What's included in this private tour, and what should I budget for separately?
Is this a private tour? What is the maximum group size and the starting price?
AI-generated. Please confirm details with your guide
-
3 hours
Walking
Private tour for 1-6 people
Your party size
1
Tour date
View our cancellation policiesUpgrade for total flexibility with Any Reason Cancellation
Book with a depositSecure your tour today and pay your balance later
-
3 hours
Walking
Private tour for 1-6 people
Your party size
1
Tour date
View our cancellation policiesUpgrade for total flexibility with Any Reason Cancellation
Book with a depositSecure your tour today and pay your balance later
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Book with a deposit
If your tour is valued over $200 USD and booked at least 45 days before the tour date, you can book with a deposit!
How it works
- Your credit card will be authorized only for the deposit amount.
- Funds will not be withdrawn until your tour booking is fully processed.
- 30 days before your tour date, the remaining balance is automatically charged.