Athens Full Day Tour: Acropolis, Parthenon & Historic Sights

Itinerary

1. 1
   Temple of Olympian Zeus 30 minutes

   The Temple of Olympian Zeus is a colossal ancient edifice, once the largest temple in the Hellenistic world. Constructed over several centuries, it honors the king of the Greek gods, Zeus. Its imposing ruins include towering Corinthian columns, offering a glimpse into ancient Greek architectural grandeur.

2. 2
   Acropolis 1 hour

   The Acropolis, a renowned citadel overlooking Athens, epitomizes classical architecture and history. Dominated by the Parthenon, a Doric temple devoted to Athena, it symbolizes Western civilization's cultural significance. With its ancient structures and stunning views, the Acropolis is a UNESCO World Heritage site, captivating visitors with its enduring legacy.

3. 3
   Panathenaic Stadium 20 minutes

   The Panathenaic Stadium is a historic marvel and the site of the first modern Olympic Games in 1896. This white marble stadium, built on ancient foundations, embodies Greek sporting heritage. With its horseshoe-shaped design and grandeur, it's a testament to the enduring Olympic spirit and ancient athletic traditions.

4. 4
   Hellenic Parliament 15 minutes

   The Hellenic Parliament is the nation's central legislative institution housed within the neoclassical Old Royal Palace. It embodies Greek democracy and is responsible for lawmaking, governance oversight, and citizen representation. The iconic Evzones, traditional presidential guards, add a ceremonial touch to its sessions, harmonizing modern governance with historical grandeur.

5. 5
   Monument to the Unknown Soldier 15 minutes

   The Tomb of the Unknown Soldier is a war memorial located in Syntagma Square in Athens, in front of the Old Royal Palace. It is a cenotaph dedicated to the Greek soldiers killed during war. It was sculpted between 1930 and 1932 by sculptor Fokion Rok.

6. 6
   Mount Lycabettus 20 minutes

   Lycabettus Hill, is a scenic limestone peak soaring 300 meters above the city. The summit hosts the Chapel of St. George and offers sweeping, panoramic views of Athens and the mesmerizing Aegean Sea, creating a stunning vista that captures the essence of this iconic Greek landmark

7. 7
   National and Kapodistrian University of Athens Pass by

   The University of Athens, founded in 1837, is Greece's oldest and largest university. It's renowned for its academic excellence, diverse programs, and historical significance. Located in Athens, it plays a pivotal role in Greek higher education and research.

8. 8
   National Library of Greece Pass by

   he National Library of Athens, founded in 1832, is a cultural landmark in Greece. Housing millions of books, manuscripts, and historical documents, it serves as a hub for research, preservation, and the dissemination of knowledge in Athens.

9. 9
   Academy of Athens Pass by

   The Academy of Athens, established in 1926, is Greece's preeminent research institution. This prestigious academy focuses on sciences, humanities, and arts. Its mission includes advancing knowledge, promoting culture, and fostering intellectual excellence in the nation's capital.

10. 10
    Stavros Niarchos Foundation Cultural Centre 30 minutes

    The Stavros Niarchos Foundation Cultural Center (SNFCC) in Athens is a modern architectural marvel designed by Renzo Piano. It houses the National Library of Greece and the Greek National Opera, seamlessly blending culture, sustainability, and innovation. Surrounded by a lush 21-hectare park, it offers walking paths, gardens, and stunning sea views. The building features cutting-edge design with a sloping green roof and energy-efficient technologies. A favorite for locals and visitors alike, the SNFCC hosts concerts, exhibitions, and open-air events, making it a vibrant cultural hub. It symbolizes Athens’ dynamic blend of classical heritage and contemporary creativity.

11. 11
    Temple of Aries 30 minutes

    Optional visit for 30 minutes at the temple of Hephaestus by selecting the "Best of + Anc. Agora 5H" option of this tour. This option also includes the Ancient agora and the total duration is about 5 hours. The Temple of Hephaestus, located in Athens' Ancient Agora, is one of the best-preserved ancient Greek temples. Dedicated to Hephaestus, the god of metalworking and craftsmanship, it features stunning Doric architecture. Built around 450 BCE, its marble columns and friezes showcase intricate details of ancient Greek artistry.

12. 12
    Ancient Agora of Athens 30 minutes

    Optional visit for 30 minutes at the Ancient Agora by selecting the "Best of + Anc. Agora 5H" option of this tour. This option also includes the Temple of Hephaestus and the total duration is about 5 hours. The Ancient Agora is a historical marketplace and civic center dating back to 6th century BCE. It served as the heart of ancient Athens, where citizens gathered for commerce, politics, and philosophical discourse. Dominated by the Temple of Hephaestus, it's a testament to the city's rich cultural and democratic heritage.

13. 13
    Acropolis Museum 1 hour

    Optional visit for 1 hour by selecting the "Best of + Acropolis Museum 5H" option of this tour. The Acropolis Museum is an archaeological museum focused on the findings of the archaeological site of the Acropolis of Athens. The museum was built to house every artifact found on the rock and on the surrounding slopes, from the Greek Bronze Age to Roman and Byzantine Greece.

Good to know

• Public transportation options are available nearby
• Infants are required to sit on an adult’s lap
• Suitable for all physical fitness levels