Athens tours

Here is a selection of the best guided tours in Athens: 1) Panorama of Athens, Full Day Private City Tour with a Luxurious Mercedes 2) Thermopylae, Meteora and Delphi Full Day Trip from Athens 3) A 'Cool' Acropolis Experience - Half Day Tour in Athens 4) Cape Sounio Tour with Sunset from Athens 5) National Archaeological Museum Tour: a panorama of the Greek civilization

Athens, the capital of Greece, is a city steeped in history and culture. There are plenty of must-do things when visiting Athens to make the most of your trip. Here are some of the top recommendations: - No visit to Athens is complete without seeing the Acropolis, a UNESCO World Heritage site. The Parthenon and other ancient ruins on the Acropolis hill are iconic symbols of Greece. - Explore the Acropolis Museum, located at the base of the Acropolis. It houses numerous artifacts and sculptures from the Acropolis and offers stunning views of the ancient site. - Wander through the charming Plaka neighbourhood, known for its narrow streets, neoclassical buildings, and a plethora of restaurants, shops, and cafes. - Visit the Ancient Agora of Athens, a historic gathering place and marketplace. Don't miss the Temple of Hephaestus. - National Archaeological Museum: one of the world's most important archaeological museums, which houses a vast collection of ancient Greek artifacts. - Watch the changing of the guard at the Tomb of the Unknown Soldier, located in front of the Hellenic Parliament building. - Stroll through Monastiraki, a lively neighbourhood with a flea market, numerous shops, and a great place to find souvenirs. - Hike or take the funicular to the top of Lycabettus Hill for panoramic views of the city. - Relax in the lush National Garden, a peaceful oasis in the heart of the city. - Explore the ancient cemetery and archaeological site of Kerameikos, which provides insight into the history of Athens. - Discover Greek culture and art at the Benaki Museum, known for its diverse collection of historical and contemporary exhibits. - Savor traditional Greek dishes at local tavernas, and be sure to try moussaka, souvlaki, and baklava. - Head to the Central Market (Varvakios Agora) to experience the vibrant atmosphere of a traditional Greek market. - Sip Greek coffee at a traditional kafeneio and experience a taste of local culture. - Athens has a thriving street art scene, and you can take a guided tour to explore some of the city's impressive street art. - Experience Athens' vibrant nightlife by visiting bars, clubs, and live music venues in areas like Psiri and Gazi. Remember that Athens can get quite crowded, especially during the peak tourist season, so plan your visits to popular attractions accordingly. Athens offers a rich blend of history, culture, and modern life, making it a fascinating destination for travelers.

The cost of a private tour in Athens can vary depending on several factors, including the duration of the tour, the specific attractions or areas you wish to visit, the level of customization, and the number of people in your group. Additionally, prices may vary among different guides, as they set their own prices with ToursByLocals. The cost of a private tour in Athens typically ranges from around $400 - $900. It's important to note that each guide sets their own prices, which is why there can be a large variation between one guide and another. When planning a private tour, be sure to read the 'what's included' and 'what's extra' sections of the tour page. If you don't quite see what you are looking for, you can send a message to the guide and discuss customizing a tour to meet your specific needs and budget.

Here are some of the top tours in Athens, each highly rated with over 100 reviews! 1) Athens Extended Half Day Private Tour with a Luxurious Mercedes Minivan 2) Acropolis and its museum half day walking city tour 3) Athens Full Day Private Tour 4) Athens Highlights Full Day City Shore Excursion 5) The Classical Acropolis Tour

ToursByLocals guides set their own prices in order to compensate themselves fairly for the hard work they do and the time spent preparing for the private tour as well as delivering the tour itself. Therefore there is no expectation for ToursByLocals customers to tip their guide. Writing a review after the tour is a great way to show your appreciation to your guide as it helps them receive more inquiries in the future.

Guided tours are perfect for getting in-depth knowledge about the history, culture, and significance of the places you're visiting. If you're interested in learning about Athens from a local expert, a guided tour can be very informative, and an excellent use of your vacation time. Whilst English is widely spoken in the tourist areas, a guided tour can help bridge the communication gap and ensure you don't miss out on important information. If you have limited time in Athens and want to see as much as possible in a short period, a private guided tour can be efficient. That way you are not restricted by a set schedule and can prioritise what you want to see in the time you have. Although private tours are generally more expensive than a group tour, they’re remarkably value: a good guide can provide you with insider tips, hidden gems, and local recommendations that will help you avoid tourist traps or overpriced places during your stay. ToursByLocals guided tours can be tailored to specific interests, such as art, history, or food. If you have a niche interest, a specialised tour can enhance your experience.

Yes, you can hire a tour guide in Athens. Hiring a tour guide can be a great way to enhance your travel experience and gain valuable insights into the local culture, history, and attractions. ToursByLocals has over 40 local guides in Athens who are local experts and offer a wide range of customizable private tours. They will work with you to customize an itinerary based on your interests and preferences. Private tour guides can provide a more personalized experience and offer flexibility in terms of scheduling and activities.

Athens is a great base for exploring the surrounding region of Attica, which is rich in historical, natural, and cultural attractions. Here are some popular day trip destinations from Athens: - Visit the ancient site of Delphi, a UNESCO World Heritage site, where you can explore the ruins of the Temple of Apollo, the theatre, and the Delphi Archaeological Museum. It's about a 2.5-hour drive from Athens. - Discover the ancient city of Mycenae, known for its impressive archaeological ruins, and then visit the ancient theatre of Epidaurus, famous for its remarkable acoustics. Both are around a 2-hour drive from Athens. - Explore the ancient city of Corinth and its archaeological site, which includes the Temple of Apollo and the Acrocorinth fortress. Corinth is about an hour's drive from Athens. - Enjoy the stunning Temple of Poseidon at Cape Sounion, situated on a promontory overlooking the Aegean Sea. It's an easy day trip from Athens, just about an hour's drive. - Head to the picturesque town of Nafplio, known for its historic old town, charming streets, and the Palamidi Fortress. It's about a 2-hour drive from Athens. - Take a ferry from Piraeus port to the nearby island of Aegina. Explore the town, visit the Temple of Aphaia, and enjoy fresh seafood by the waterfront. - Hydra and Poros: these two beautiful islands are accessible by ferry from Piraeus and offer a peaceful escape from the city. Hydra is known for its car-free streets and charming architecture, while Poros is a quieter option with lovely beaches. - Visit the Marathon Tomb and Archaeological Museum to learn about the historical Battle of Marathon. It's a short drive from Athens. - Explore the Byzantine beauty of the Daphni Monastery, a UNESCO World Heritage site known for its well-preserved mosaics. - Enjoy nature by hiking or taking the cable car to Mount Parnitha, a national park located just north of Athens. - Discover the ancient site of Eleusis, an important religious centre in antiquity, and visit the Eleusis Archaeological Museum. - In the winter, consider a day trip to the charming mountain town of Arachova, known for its ski resorts and traditional Greek mountain culture. Remember to plan your day trips according to your interests and the season. Some destinations, like the islands, are best visited during the warmer months, while others, such as Delphi and Epidaurus, can be enjoyed year-round.

The number of days you should spend in Athens depends on your interests and the pace at which you like to explore a city. Here are some general recommendations: 1-2 Days: If you're extremely limited on time, you can get a taste of Athens in a day or two. You can see the Acropolis, visit the Acropolis Museum, and take a walk around Plaka and Monastiraki. While it's a whirlwind visit, you'll see the most iconic sites. 3-4 Days: This is a more comfortable duration to explore Athens. You can spend more time at the Acropolis and its surrounding sites, visit a few museums, enjoy Greek cuisine at different restaurants, explore some neighbourhoods like Kolonaki or Exarchia, and take a day trip to a nearby destination like Cape Sounion, Delphi, or Epidaurus. 5-7 Days: If you have a week or more, you can delve deeper into Athens and its surroundings. In addition to the above, you can explore more neighbourhoods, discover hidden gems, and perhaps take multiple day trips to the nearby islands or historical sites. You'll have time to truly immerse yourself in the city's culture and history. Beyond a week: If you're passionate about history, art, and Greek culture, you could easily spend more than a week in Athens. This allows for a leisurely exploration of the city and its outskirts, including less-visited sites, art galleries, and even more distant day trips. Remember that Athens is a city with a rich history and vibrant contemporary culture, so the more time you can allocate, the more you'll be able to experience and appreciate what the city has to offer. However, even a shorter visit can be quite fulfilling if you plan your time wisely.

The cost of a 7-day trip to Athens from the United States can vary significantly depending on several factors, including your departure city, travel dates, accommodation preferences, dining choices, and activities. Here's a rough breakdown of potential expenses for a 7-day trip to Athens: Flights: The cost of round-trip flights from the US to Athens can vary greatly depending on the time of year, airline, and your departure city. On average, you might expect to pay anywhere from $600 to $1,500 or more for a round-trip ticket. Accommodation: The cost of accommodation in Athens can range from budget hostels and guesthouses to luxury hotels. On average, you might spend $50 to $200 or more per night, depending on your choice of lodging. Food: Dining costs can vary. You can find inexpensive meals at local tavernas or street vendors, or enjoy fine dining at upscale restaurants. On average, plan for about $25 to $50 per person per day for meals, but this can vary widely. Transportation: Athens has an efficient public transportation system, and you can use the metro and buses to get around. A 7-day transportation pass can cost around $15. Entrance Fees: Admission fees to attractions like the Acropolis and museums will add to your expenses. Budget around $50 or more for entrance fees to various sites. Entertainment and Activities: The cost of activities, tours, and entertainment will vary based on your interests. Budget anywhere from $50 to $400 or more for activities during your 7-day stay. Travel Insurance: It's important to have travel insurance, which can add a cost of around 5% to 10% of your trip's total expenses. Based on the above estimates, a rough budget for a 7-day trip to Athens from the US could range from $1,500 to $4,000 or more per person, excluding international airfare. Keep in mind that these are just rough estimates, and your actual expenses may vary based on your choices and preferences. Be sure to research and plan your trip according to your budget and preferences.

When choosing where to stay in Athens, it's important to consider your budget, interests, and the kind of experience you want to have. Athens offers a variety of neighborhoods and accommodation options. Here are some popular areas to stay in Athens: Plaka: Plaka is the historic neighborhood at the foot of the Acropolis, making it one of the most popular and picturesque areas to stay. It offers charming streets, traditional Greek architecture, and proximity to major attractions. This is a great option if you want to be in the heart of the city's historical center. Syntagma: The Syntagma Square area is the city's central square and home to many upscale hotels. It's close to the Greek Parliament, upscale shopping, and the National Gardens. Staying in this area offers convenience and easy access to public transportation. Monastiraki: Monastiraki is known for its vibrant atmosphere and the famous Monastiraki Flea Market. It's a hub for shopping, dining, and nightlife. This area is popular with younger travelers and those looking for a lively scene. Kolonaki: Kolonaki is an upscale, residential area known for its boutique shops, high-end restaurants, and posh hotels. It's a more peaceful option if you want to stay in a fashionable neighborhood. Exarchia: Exarchia is a bohemian and artistic neighborhood, known for its alternative scene, street art, and vibrant culture. It's a good choice for budget travelers and those looking for a unique atmosphere. Gazi: Located near Kerameikos, Gazi is famous for its nightlife, with numerous bars, clubs, and restaurants. It's a trendy area with a younger crowd and a thriving arts and music scene. Koukaki: Koukaki is a residential neighborhood just south of the Acropolis, offering a more local and laid-back vibe. It's a good choice for those who want to stay in a quieter area but still have easy access to the main attractions. Psiri: Psiri is a trendy neighborhood with a mix of traditional and modern elements. It's famous for its nightlife and is home to many bars and restaurants. Ultimately, the choice of where to stay depends on your preferences and interests. If you want to be close to ancient ruins and historic sites, consider Plaka or Koukaki. For shopping and upscale dining, look at Syntagma and Kolonaki. If you prefer a more alternative scene, areas like Exarchia and Psiri might be a better fit. Budget travelers can find options in various neighborhoods, including Monastiraki and Exarchia.

The best time to visit Athens depends on your preferences and what you want to experience during your trip. Athens has a Mediterranean climate, which means it experiences distinct seasons. Here's a breakdown of the different times of year to visit Athens: Spring (April to June): Spring is considered one of the best times to visit Athens. The weather is pleasantly warm, and the city's parks and gardens are in full bloom. This is an excellent time for sightseeing and outdoor activities without the intense summer heat. However, it can be quite crowded with tourists. Summer (July to August): Summer in Athens is hot and dry, with temperatures often exceeding 90°F (32°C). It's a popular time for tourists, but it can be sweltering, especially in July and August. If you can handle the heat, this is a great time to enjoy the city's vibrant outdoor cafes, beaches, and open-air theaters. Fall (September to November): Autumn is another pleasant time to visit Athens. The weather is warm but not as scorching as in summer. Crowds begin to thin, and it's an ideal time for exploring historical sites without the summer rush. September is particularly pleasant as the sea is still warm for swimming. Winter (December to February): Winter in Athens is mild compared to many northern destinations, but it can be wet and chilly. While it's not the best time for beaches, it's a good time for lower prices on accommodations and fewer tourists. It's also a great time to explore museums and indoor attractions. The city may experience occasional rain, so be prepared for some wet days. Festivals and Events: Consider planning your visit around major festivals or cultural events in Athens. For instance, the Athens Epidaurus Festival runs from June to August and features numerous cultural performances, while the Athens International Film Festival takes place in September. In summary, the best time to visit Athens for most travelers is during the spring (April to June) and early autumn (September to October). You'll enjoy pleasant weather, manageable crowds, and a great balance of indoor and outdoor activities. However, if you prefer warm summer weather and don't mind the crowds, July and August are also an option, especially if you want to enjoy the beaches and outdoor cafes.