How to Plan Your Athens Sightseeing Half Day Tour

If you are looking for a history-themed sightseeing tour of Athens, the Athens Sightseeing Half Day Tour is an excellent option for you. This tour provides exceptional service, courteous drivers, licensed guide, and air-conditioned buses. In this blog post, we will guide you on how to plan your Athens Sightseeing Half Day Tour, from start to finish.

Overview

The Athens Sightseeing Half Day Tour is an incredible experience that allows you to travel back in time to ancient Athens. During this tour, you will get a sense of the wealth of historical sites in Athens during the panoramic drive past attractions. The tour includes a visit to the UNESCO World Heritage-listed Acropolis to explore the Parthenon and Temple of Athena.

What’s Included?

The following are included as part of the tour:

• Professional and licensed guide
• Transport by luxury air-conditioned bus
• Hotel pick-up/drop-off service (select hotels only)

Tour Itinerary

The Athens Sightseeing Half Day Tour itinerary consists of the following:

Pickup and Panoramic Drive

You will be picked from your hotel (select hotels only) at around 8:30 am in the morning by the tour bus. The tour starts with a sightseeing panoramic drive around the city of Athens. Your guide will point out the main attractions of the city, including Hadrian’s Arch, the National Library, the Parliament Building, and Syntagma Square.

Panathenaic Stadium

The tour then heads towards the Panathenaic Stadium. This stadium was constructed for the first ‘modern’ Olympic Games in 1896 and was later used for the 2004 Olympic Games. You will have an opportunity to relive the athletic glories of the first ‘modern’ Olympics and take pictures.

Acropolis and the Parthenon

After visiting the Panathenaic Stadium, the tour moves on to the Acropolis. You will get an opportunity to explore the Parthenon and the Temple of Athena, which are both located at the top of the Acropolis hill. Your licensed guide will tell you about the history of the Acropolis and the buildings located on it.

Acropolis Museum

The tour ends with a visit to the Acropolis Museum. The museum is located near the Acropolis and houses artifacts and statues from the Acropolis. You can take pictures and buy souvenirs from the museum.

Booking the Tour

Booking this tour is simple and straightforward. You can book the tour through the Viator website using the following link: book the tour here. Simply select the date you want to take the tour and the number of people, and you will receive confirmation of your booking.

Book Your Tour Now

The Athens Sightseeing Half Day Tour is an excellent opportunity to explore the historical sites of Athens. From touring the Panathenaic Stadium to exploring the Parthenon and the Temple of Athena on top of the Acropolis hill, this tour is every history lover’s delight. We hope this guide will help you plan your Athens Sightseeing Half Day Tour and enjoy your experience to the fullest.

Frequently Asked Questions about Athens

Athens, the capital city of Greece, is one of the oldest continuously inhabited cities in the world. With a history that spans over 3,400 years, Athens is known for its ancient monuments, fascinating culture, and vibrant lifestyle. Here are some frequently asked questions regarding Athens:

1. What is the best time to visit Athens?

The best time to visit Athens is from March to May and from September to November. At this time, the weather is milder, and there are fewer crowds. In summer, from June to August, the temperatures can rise above 30 degrees Celsius, and it can be extremely crowded. However, if you’re looking for beach adventures, summer is the best time for you!

2. What are the top tourist attractions in Athens?

Athens is home to several top tourist attractions, including:

Acropolis:

The Acropolis, a UNESCO World Heritage Site, is the most famous landmark in Athens. It’s a 5th-century BC citadel, located on a rocky outcrop overlooking the city of Athens. The Parthenon is one of the most famous landmarks in the Acropolis, but there are other ruins worth visiting too.

Plaka:

The Plaka is one of the most charming neighborhoods in Athens. It’s filled with narrow cobblestone streets, traditional houses, and a vibrant atmosphere with many bars and restaurants.

Ancient Agora:

The Ancient Agora of Athens is a historical site that dates back to the 6th century BC. It was once the heart of the city, used for political, religious, and commercial activities.

National Archaeological Museum:

The National Archaeological Museum in Athens is the largest archaeological museum in Greece. It contains artifacts ranging from prehistoric times to ancient Greece.

3. What is the official language spoken in Athens?

The official language spoken in Athens is Greek. However, as a tourist, you will find that most Greeks speak English, and signs are also translated in English.

4. What is the currency used in Athens?

The currency used in Greece is the Euro. Major credit cards, such as Visa and Mastercard, are widely accepted in Athens too.

5. Is Athens a safe city for tourists?

Athens is generally a safe city for tourists. However, petty crime, such as pickpocketing is common in crowded areas. It’s important to take precautions, such as keeping your valuables secure and being mindful of your surroundings.

6. What are the transportation options in Athens?

Athens has an extensive public transportation system, including buses, a metro, trams, and taxis. The metro system is the easiest and cheapest way to get around Athens. Taxis can be hailed on the street or booked via an app. It’s important to note that traffic in Athens can be heavy, especially during peak hours.

7. What is the local cuisine in Athens?

Greek cuisine is known for its fresh ingredients, Mediterranean flavors, and healthy ingredients. Some of the local dishes to try in Athens include:

Moussaka:

Moussaka is a traditional Greek dish made with layers of sautéed eggplant, ground meat, and a creamy béchamel sauce.

Spanakopita:

Spanakopita is a savory pie made with spinach, feta cheese, and phyllo pastry.

Souvlaki:

Souvlaki is a classic Greek dish, consisting of grilled meat (usually pork or chicken) served on a skewer.

Tzatziki:

Tzatziki is a refreshing yogurt dip made with cucumber and herbs. It’s usually served as a side dish with meat or as a dip with pita bread.

8. What are the best areas to stay in Athens?

Some of the best areas to stay in Athens include:

Plaka:

Plaka is the oldest neighborhood in Athens and is filled with historical sites, cafes, and shops. It’s a great area to stay if you want to be near the main tourist attractions.

Koukaki:

Koukaki is a trendy neighborhood located near the Acropolis. It has a laid-back atmosphere, with many restaurants, cafes, and bars.

Kolonaki:

Kolonaki is an upscale neighborhood in Athens, known for its high-end boutiques, galleries, and restaurants.

9. What is the dress code in Athens?

There is no strict dress code in Athens, but it’s important to dress appropriately when visiting places of worship or main attractions. Generally, casual attire is acceptable, but it’s always a good idea to dress a little nicer for evenings out and upscale restaurants.

10. What is the nightlife like in Athens?

Athens has a vibrant nightlife scene, with many bars, clubs, and pubs. Some of the best neighborhoods for nightlife include Psiri, Gazi, and Monastiraki. The nightlife scene in Athens usually starts late, with most clubs opening around midnight and closing in the early hours of the morning.

How to Spend Your Time as a Tourist in Athens

Athens is a city full of history, culture, and beautiful architecture. It is the perfect destination for anyone who enjoys exploring ancient ruins, visiting museums, and experiencing local culture. There are so many things to do and see in Athens that it can be overwhelming for first-time visitors. In this guide, we will provide you with an itinerary for spending your time in Athens, including must-see attractions, delicious food, and hidden gems.

Day 1

Acropolis

The Acropolis is the most famous landmark in Athens and is a UNESCO World Heritage Site. It is home to several ancient ruins, including the Parthenon, the Temple of Athena Nike, and the Erechtheion. The best time to visit the Acropolis is early in the morning to avoid the crowds and the heat of the day. You can easily spend a few hours exploring the Acropolis and taking in the amazing views of Athens.

Acropolis Museum

Located at the foot of the Acropolis, the Acropolis Museum is one of the best museums in Athens. It contains a collection of artifacts and sculptures from the Acropolis, including the Caryatids, which are the original decorative female statues from the Erechtheion. The museum also provides a great panoramic view of the Acropolis from its top floor.

Plaka

After visiting the Acropolis and the museum, head to Plaka, the old town of Athens. It is a charming neighborhood full of small alleys and traditional Greek architecture. You will find many shops selling souvenirs, as well as cafes and restaurants.

Syntagma Square

Syntagma Square is the central square of Athens and is surrounded by beautiful neoclassical buildings. It is home to the Parliament and the tomb of the unknown soldier. If you visit at the right time, you can witness the famous changing of the guard ceremony, which occurs every hour.

Day 2

National Archaeological Museum

The National Archaeological Museum is the largest archaeological museum in Greece and is home to a vast collection of ancient artifacts. It includes exhibits from prehistoric times to late antiquity, such as the Mask of Agamemnon, Mycenaean pottery, and ancient sculptures. You can easily spend a few hours exploring the museum and admiring the stunning collection.

Monastiraki Flea Market

Monastiraki is a busy neighborhood full of shops, cafes, and restaurants. The Monastiraki Flea Market is a must-visit for anyone who enjoys shopping. You will find a variety of goods, including antique furniture, jewelry, and souvenirs. Bargaining is common here, so be prepared to negotiate for the best price.

National Gardens

After a busy day of sightseeing and shopping, head to the National Gardens for a peaceful break. The gardens are located near the Parliament building and offer a tranquil oasis away from the city’s noise and crowds. You can explore the gardens’ paths and ponds, or relax on a bench and enjoy the beautiful scenery.

Day 3

Lycabettus Hill

Lycabettus Hill is the highest point in Athens, and it offers a spectacular panoramic view of the city. You can reach the top by hiking, taking a cable car or taxi. At the top, there is a small chapel and a restaurant where you can enjoy a meal while admiring the incredible views.

National Museum of Contemporary Art

The National Museum of Contemporary Art is located in a former brewery building in the heart of Athens. It features works of contemporary Greek and international artists, including installations, paintings, sculptures, and videos. The museum also hosts temporary exhibitions, so check their website for current events.

Gazi

Gazi is a trendy neighborhood that emerged from an industrial area. It is known for its nightlife and entertainment. You can find many restaurants, bars, and clubs, as well as the Technopolis cultural complex. The complex consists of several buildings hosting exhibitions, concerts, and events, making Gazi a vibrant destination.

Day 4

Temple of Olympian Zeus

The Temple of Olympian Zeus is one of the largest ancient temples in Greece and is located near the Acropolis. It took over 700 years to complete the construction and contains a huge standing column, as well as fallen fragments of other columns. A visit to the temple is a great way to get a feel for the scale of ancient Greek architecture.

Panathenaic Stadium

The Panathenaic Stadium is also known as the Kallimarmaro Stadium and is located in the heart of Athens. It was originally built in 330 BC to host the Panathenaic Games, and it was later reconstructed using marble for the first modern Olympic Games in 1896. You can visit the stadium and take a tour to learn more about its history and significance.

Psyrri

Psyrri is a bohemian neighborhood full of street art, bars, and restaurants. It is a great place to explore during the day or night and to experience the local culture. You will find many places serving traditional Greek food, as well as unique shops and galleries.

Final Thoughts

Athens is a vibrant and diverse city that offers something for everyone. Whether you enjoy ancient history, contemporary art, or delicious food, you will find it all in Athens. We hope this guide has provided you with an itinerary for spending your time in Athens and discovering some of its hidden gems. Remember to wear comfortable shoes, stay hydrated and take breaks when needed. Enjoy your time in Athens!