The Best of Athens

A brief city drive will take you from Piraeus into Athens covering the main points of interest both ancient and modern as your guide provides interesting commentary. Arriving in Athens you will commence your city orientation which will take you by the Temple of Olympian Zeus, the Hadrian's Arch, the National Gardens, the tomb of the Unknown Soldier, guarded by the ‘evzones’ dressed in their traditional costume, the Parliament, the Presidential Palace and the Panathinaikon Stadium where the first Olympics of modern times were held in 1896.

Your first stop of the day will be at the awesome Acropolis site on which is the Parthenon, the symbol of classical architecture. The entrance to the top of the hill is through the Propylea, the ‘gates’ through which the Panathinea processions used to enter, built totally of white marble and covering an area of 50 meters across the whole western front of the Acropolis. Next to these is the temple of Athena Niki also known as the ‘Wingless Victory’. The Parthenon is the major temple built in honour of Goddess Athena. Her statue decorates the center of the temple and it was made of ivory and gold. Next to the Parthenon is the smaller Temple of Erechthion with lovely sculptured young maidens supporting the roof of the porch. From the top of the Acropolis you will also be able to admire the ancient theatre of Herodus Atticus with its remarkable acoustics.

Your tour continues with a visit to Athens’ National Archaeological Museum. This neo-classically-designed building is considered one of the great museums of the world, containing the richest collection of Greek antiquities in the whole world. Marvel at the power of the bronze statue of Poseidon along with a plethora of gold items such as the Mask of Agamemnon. Recent expansions include exhibits dedicated to Minoan Frescos and Egyptian antiquities.

A delicious meal with Greek specialities will be then served for your enjoyment at a leading Athens’ venue. You’ll then enter the old part of the city called the Plaka and explore its predominately pedestrian streets with the picturesque houses, shops and numerous cafes. After an hour of free time in this area you’ll return to the motorcoach for your transportation back to port.

 

Special Notes:
Comfortable walking shoes and a sun hat recommended.

Tour not suitable for elderly and assisted, physically challenged persons.

Please be aware ongoing restoration work is often carried out at the Acropolis.

The tour involves climbing approximately 80 steps at the Acropolis, as well as walking over some uneven and slippery paths.

There will be a 10-minute walk from the motorcoach drop-off point to the Plaka area.

Passengers with limited mobility should take this into consideration before taking this tour.

Security restrictions at the Acropolis and Archaeological Museum prohibit entrance with large bags and backpacks.

Passengers should expect lines and crowds at the Acropolis.

Flash photography is not permitted in the National Archaeological Museum.

Tour sequence may vary however all features and inclusions will remain unchanged

 

 

 

Tour Timings:

Tours begin at times suitable for the ship's arrival in port. The breakdown of the excursions is as follows:
00hr00 -> Depart from Piraeus Port
00hr00-> 00hr30 Drive to Athens
00hr30-> 01hr15 City orientation ending at the Acropolis site
01hr15-> 03hr00 Guided tour of the Acropolis & the Parthenon
03hr00-> 03hr15 Drive to the National Archaeological Museum
03hr15-> 04hr45 Guided tour of the Museum
04hr45-> 05hr00 Drive to lunch venue
05hr00-> 06hr00 Serving lunch
06hr00-> 06hr15 Drive to Plaka area
06hr15-> 07hr30 Free time at Plaka
07hr30-> 08hr00 Drive back to port

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