Acropolis, Plaka and Folkloric Show

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.

You’ll then reboard your coach and take a short drive to the famed Plaka neighbourhood. Once in Plaka, you'll be given free time to browse through this historic shopping district. The cobblestone lanes have been closed to automobile traffic, making it easy to browse through the boutiques, souvenir stands, jewelry stores, and flea market stalls.

From the Plaka, walk to the venue for your traditional Greek lunch and folkloric show. Here you’ll enjoy a variety of authentic Greek specialities including the famous Mousaka, tzatziki and ouzo while dancers in traditional costumes perform regional classics. After the performance, it is time to get into the act for a dancing lesson, Zorba-style! Opaaaa!

 

Special Notes:
Comfortable walking shoes and 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.

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

 

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-> 03hr15 Guided tour of the Acropolis & the Parthenon

03hr15-> 03hr30 Drive to Plaka district

03hr30-> 05hr00 Free time at Plaka

05hr00-> 07hr00 Lunch and Greek style fiesta

07hr00-> 07hr30 Drive back to port

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