ITINERARY
Athens half day tour. Our Athens half day tour will begin with none other than the Acropolis of Athens, the main symbol of Hellenic heritage and the most important and iconic landmark of Greek civilization and architectural grandeur.
The Acropolis
The Acropolis, situated on a high rock above the city of Athens, hence also referred to as the “Sacred Rock” hosts several historical buildings that you will get to admire with the Parthenon being the most renowned and notable and the Erechtheion with the famous Caryatids and the Temple of Athena Nike following close behind in terms of beauty.
Syntagma Square and the Hellenic Parliament
Once you have toured the magnificent and unforgettable sanctuary of Ancient Athens next on the city sightseeing trip is a visit to the hustle and bustle of Syntagma Square, which is the central square of Athens and is named after the Constitution that the first King of Greece Otto was obliged to grant to the Greek people. The square has a long history. Some of the most significant events of Greece have either been celebrated or mourned on that same square, not to mention some of the biggest political rallies.
At the top of Syntagma Square is the Hellenic Parliament building, built between 1836 and 1840, formerly used as King Otto’s palace and characterized by the classical style of architecture, known as neo-classical, which is the prominent style found in all the old buildings, houses and mansions in Athens.
The Tomb of the Unknown Soldier
During our city tour, you will also get a chance to see the Tomb of the Unknown Soldier guarded by the elite soldiers ‘Evzones’. At every hour of the day, spectators can enjoy the changing of the presidential guard and enjoy the show as they perform a perfectly synchronized ceremonial.
Lycabettus, Kallimarmaro stadium and Plaka
The next stop of our Athens half day tour is a drive up Lycabettus Hill, the highest point in Central Athens, where you can enjoy the Lycabettus Hill viewing area and its breathtaking views of the Acropolis and the surrounding areas of Athens, while you enjoy a nice cup of Greek coffee or refreshment.
We will then head down Lycabettus Hill and make our way towards one of Athens must-see historic attractions of Athens, the Panathenaic Stadium, also known as Kallimarmaro. It is where the first Modern Olympic Games were held in 1896 and the only stadium in the world built entirely of marble.
Near the stadium, you will also get to see the Temple of Olympian Zeus which was the biggest temple in Greece during the Hellenic and Roman period and was given its name as a dedication to Zeus, the head of the Olympian gods.
Finally, our journey will end in beautiful Plaka situated at the foot of the Acropolis, where you can enjoy a nice walk in its cobblestone streets lined with sidewalk cafes, tavernas, and tiny shops selling ceramics, jewelry, and clothes.
This perfect day will then end at a taverna where you will taste a traditional Greek lunch.
Once your meal is finished and after having discovered Athens and its hidden gems, your driver will drive you back to your initial pick-up location.
IMPORTANT NOTICE: All our routes are strictly carried out by professional licensed drivers. It is against the Law for drivers to be tour guides. However, if you wish to hire a professional tour guide we can make the necessary arrangements for a certified tour guide to accompany you and give you the full history of the sites.
Included in the price are :
*Parking fees the tolls and fuel
*Fully licensed vehicle
*English speaking driver
Not Included :
*Entrance fees
*Food and drinks
*Professional tour guide
If you would prefer a more relaxed and comprehensive tour around the sights of the Athens Half Day Tour, we also offer an Athens Full Day Tour that lets you explore Athens leisurely and with no rush. Feel free to choose the version of our Athens private tours that fits you best.