How to Plan Your Athens Full Day Minivan Tour

If you are planning to visit Athens and are looking for a private full-day tour that covers all the must-visit sites of the city, then the Athens Full Day Minivan Tour could be the perfect choice for you. In this how-to guide, we will take you through all the details of the tour and help you plan your day in the ancient city so that you can make the most of your time there.

Overview of the Tour

The Athens Full Day Minivan Tour is a private 8-hour tour that covers all the iconic attractions of Athens in a comfortable vehicle with a local guide. You will visit the Acropolis, the new Acropolis Museum, the Temple of the Olympian Zeus, the Ancient Agora, the National Archaeological Museum, the Old Town Plaka, and more. You will also watch the changing of the guard ceremony at the Greek Parliament Building and take in panoramic city views from atop Lycabettus Hill. The tour price is per group, based on a maximum of 7 people, and can be customized to suit the group’s preferences. You will be able to travel in a private vehicle with room for your group only, ensuring a personalized and flexible experience.

Itinerary of the Tour

Here is a detailed itinerary of the Athens Full Day Minivan Tour:

1. Acropolis and the New Acropolis Museum

Your guide will pick you up from your hotel or a central location in Athens and take you to the Acropolis – the most iconic monument of Athens. You will climb to the top of the hill and admire the Parthenon, the Propylaea, the Erechtheion, and the Temple of Athena Nike – all ancient masterpieces that represent the glory of Classical Athens. After the Acropolis, your guide will take you to the brand new Acropolis Museum, which hosts an impressive collection of ancient artifacts and stunning exhibits. You will learn about the history and culture of Athens, see the famous Caryatids, and have the chance to take amazing pictures of the Acropolis from the museum’s balcony.

2. Changing of the Guard Ceremony

Next, you will watch the changing of the guard ceremony at the Greek Parliament Building, a historic moment that takes place every hour in front of the Monument of the Unknown Soldier. The Presidential Guards, also known as the Evzones, are dressed in their traditional attire and perform an impressive march that attracts thousands of visitors every day.

3. Panoramic Views from Lycabettus Hill

After the ceremony, your guide will take you to Lycabettus Hill, the highest point in Athens, where you will enjoy breathtaking panoramic views of the city. You will have the opportunity to take stunning photos of the Acropolis, the Aegean Sea, and the surrounding mountains.

4. Temple of the Olympian Zeus and the Ancient Agora

You will then visit the Temple of the Olympian Zeus, one of the largest temples in the ancient world that took over 700 years to build. You will also visit the Ancient Agora, the heart of ancient Athens, where you will see the remains of the marketplace, the public buildings, and the temples that were once the center of political, social, and commercial life of Athens.

5. Authentic Greek Lunch in Plaka

After exploring the ancient sites, your guide will take you to Plaka, the oldest neighborhood in Athens, where you will have the chance to enjoy an authentic Greek lunch at a local taverna. You will taste traditional Greek dishes, such as moussaka, tzatziki, souvlaki, and Greek salad, and immerse yourself in the vibrant atmosphere of Plaka.

Booking the Tour

If you want to book the Athens Full Day Minivan Tour, you can visit Viator’s website at book the tour here. Viator is a trusted online platform that offers a wide range of sightseeing tours and activities worldwide. You can select the date and time of the tour, the number of participants, and pay securely online. You will also receive a confirmation email with all the details of the tour and your guide’s contact information.

Book Your Tour Now

The Athens Full Day Minivan Tour is an excellent way to discover Athens’ rich history and culture in a comfortable and private setting. You will visit all the essential sites of the city, from the Acropolis to Plaka, and enjoy personalized attention from your local guide. With this how-to guide, you can plan your day effectively and make the most of your time in Athens.

Athens: Frequently Asked Questions

If you are planning to visit Athens, Greece, you might have a few questions in your mind related to the city. This list of frequently asked questions might help you understand Athens better.

1. What is Athens famous for?

Athens is famous as the birthplace of democracy and western philosophy. It is also renowned for its ancient landmarks such as the Acropolis and the Parthenon. Athens is also known for its lively nightlife, delicious cuisine, and stunning beaches.

2. What is the best time to visit Athens?

The best time to visit Athens is from March to May or from September to November. During these months, the weather is generally mild and comfortable, and there are fewer tourists. July and August can be very hot, and many Athens residents leave the city for vacations during these months.

3. What is the currency of Greece?

The currency of Greece is the Euro. You can exchange your money at banks or currency exchange offices in Athens. Most shops, restaurants, and hotels accept credit cards, but it’s always a good idea to have some cash on hand for smaller purchases.

4. What is the time zone in Athens?

Athens is in the Eastern European Time zone (GMT+2). During daylight savings time (from March to October), Athens is in the Eastern European Summer Time zone (GMT+3).

5. What language do people speak in Athens?

The official language of Greece is Greek, and that’s what most people speak in Athens. However, many people in the tourism industry speak English, and you can easily get by with English in Athens.

6. How can I get around in Athens?

Athens has an extensive public transportation system, including buses, a metro, and trams. Taxis are also widely available, but they can be expensive during peak hours. Walking is also a great way to explore the city center, especially around the Acropolis.

7. What are some must-visit landmarks in Athens?

The Acropolis, the Parthenon, and the Ancient Agora are some of the most famous landmarks in Athens. Other must-visit sites include the Temple of Olympian Zeus, the Panathenaic Stadium, the National Archaeological Museum, and the Kerameikos Cemetery.

8. What is the food like in Athens?

Greek cuisine is famous for its fresh, healthy ingredients and delicious flavors. Popular dishes in Athens include souvlaki (grilled meat on a skewer), moussaka (layers of eggplant, potato, and meat), and feta cheese served with olives and other mezze (small dishes to share). Be sure to try some of the local wine and spirits, such as ouzo and tsipouro.

9. What is the nightlife like in Athens?

Athens is famous for its nightlife, which ranges from rooftop bars with stunning views to all-night clubs playing the latest music. Popular areas for nightlife include Psirri, Gazi, and Kolonaki. Be prepared for a late night out, as many clubs don’t get busy until after midnight.

10. What are some day trips I can take from Athens?

There are many day trips you can take from Athens, including a trip to Cape Sounion to see the Temple of Poseidon, a visit to the ancient city of Delphi, or a trip to the nearby islands of Aegina and Hydra. You can also take a bus or train to other parts of Greece, such as the Peloponnese or Thessaloniki.

How to Spend Your Time as a Tourist in Athens

Athens is a city steeped in history and culture, home to some of the most famous landmarks and monuments in the world. From the Acropolis to the Parthenon, there is no shortage of things to see and do in this ancient city. But where do you start? How do you make the most of your time as a tourist in Athens? In this guide, we will take you through some of the must-visit attractions and activities to make your visit to Athens truly unforgettable.

1. Visit the Acropolis

No trip to Athens is complete without a visit to the Acropolis. The Acropolis is a UNESCO World Heritage site, and it is one of the most important archaeological sites in the world. The Acropolis is home to the iconic Parthenon, the Temple of Athena Nike, and the Erechtheion, among other ancient ruins. You can spend hours wandering around the site and learning about the ancient history of Athens.

2. Explore the National Archaeological Museum

The National Archaeological Museum is the largest archaeological museum in Greece, and it houses some of the most important artifacts from ancient Greece. From pottery to sculptures to jewelry, there is something for everyone at the museum. The museum is located in central Athens, and it is open daily except for Tuesdays.

3. Walk through the Plaka District

The Plaka District is the oldest neighborhood in Athens, and it is full of narrow, winding streets, and charming alleyways. The Plaka is home to a variety of shops, restaurants, and cafes, and it is a great place to spend an afternoon. Be sure to stop by the Anafiotika, a small village within the Plaka that is designed to look and feel like a Greek island.

4. Visit the Temple of Olympian Zeus

The Temple of Olympian Zeus is one of the largest ancient temples in Greece, and it is located just a few minutes’ walk from the Acropolis. The temple was built in the 6th century BC and took over 600 years to complete. Today, only a few of the original 104 columns remain standing, but they are still an impressive sight to behold.

5. Take a Day Trip to Cape Sounion

Cape Sounion is located about an hour’s drive from central Athens, and it is home to the Temple of Poseidon, one of the most important ancient temples in Greece. The temple is located on a cliff overlooking the sea, and the views are truly breathtaking. You can easily spend a day exploring the ruins and soaking up the stunning vistas.

6. Visit the Ancient Agora

The Ancient Agora was the center of political and social life in ancient Athens, and it is home to some of the city’s most important historical artifacts. From the Temple of Hephaestus to the Stoa of Attalos, there is no shortage of ancient wonders to explore. Be sure to take a guided tour to learn more about the history and significance of the site.

7. Take a Food Tour

Greek cuisine is world-renowned for its delicious flavors and fresh ingredients. Taking a food tour is a great way to get an authentic taste of Athens and learn more about the city’s culinary traditions. From street food to high-end restaurants, there is something for everyone on a food tour.

8. Enjoy the Athens Nightlife

Athens has a thriving nightlife scene, and there are plenty of bars and nightclubs to choose from. From rooftop bars with stunning views of the Acropolis to underground clubs with live music, there is something for everyone in Athens. Be sure to check out the Gazi neighborhood, which is known for its vibrant party scene.

Book Your Tour Now

Athens is a city that truly has something for everyone. From ancient history to modern cuisine, there is no shortage of things to see and do in this vibrant city. By following this guide, you can make the most of your time in Athens and create memories that will last a lifetime. So start packing your bags and get ready for an unforgettable adventure!