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15 Exciting Tours to Discover the Best of Athens, Greece

There are landmarks on every corner in Athens
There are landmarks on every corner in Athens | ©Cavan Images / Getty Images

Athens is a city steeped in culture with iconic landmarks on every corner. Whether you’re looking to explore ancient landmarks, indulge in great food and wine, or simply bask in the sunshine and the beautiful views along the coast, the Greek capital offers a plethora of things to do.

Athens Half-Day Sightseeing Tour with tickets of Acropolis

Historical Landmark

Athens, Greece - August 30, 2022: A crowd of visitors observe the remains of the famous Parthenon, in the Acropolis of Athens, Greece, in a panoramic format
nito / shutterstock

Discover the rich history and vibrant culture of Athens on a half-day sightseeing tour that includes tickets to the Acropolis. Start your journey by exploring the city’s most iconic landmarks, including the Panathenaic Stadium, the Temple of Olympian Zeus, and the Parliament building with its ceremonial guards. As you travel through the historic streets, learn about the city’s ancient and modern heritage from your expert guide. The highlight of the tour is a visit to the Acropolis, where your included tickets grant you easy access to this world-famous site. Walk among the ancient ruins, marvel at the Parthenon, and enjoy panoramic views of Athens from the hilltop. This half-day tour offers a perfect introduction to the city’s timeless beauty and historical significance.

City Sightseeing Athens, Piraeus & Beach Riviera Hop-On Hop-Off Bus Tour

Tours

Explore Athens, Piraeus, and the stunning Beach Riviera at your own pace with the City Sightseeing Hop-On Hop-Off Bus Tours. This flexible tour allows you to discover the best of Athens and its surroundings with ease. Hop on and off at any of the conveniently located stops, visiting iconic landmarks like the Acropolis, Parthenon, and the ancient Agora. Take a stroll through the bustling streets of Piraeus, Greece’s largest port, and soak up the vibrant atmosphere. Then, unwind along the Beach Riviera, where you can relax on sandy shores or enjoy a refreshing swim in the crystal-clear waters. With informative audio commentary available in multiple languages, this tour offers a comprehensive and convenient way to see the sights of Athens, Piraeus, and the beautiful coastline.

Athens: 1-Day Cruise to Poros, Hydra & Aegina Islands with Lunch

Natural Feature

Set sail on an unforgettable 1-day cruise from Athens to the enchanting islands of Poros, Hydra, and Aegina, complete with a delicious onboard lunch. Begin your journey with a visit to Poros, where you can explore its charming streets and take in stunning views of the Peloponnese coastline. Next, head to the picturesque island of Hydra, renowned for its well-preserved architecture and serene atmosphere, free from motor vehicles. Stroll along the waterfront, visit local shops, or simply relax by the sea. Finally, arrive at Aegina, an island steeped in history and famous for its pistachios and the ancient Temple of Aphaia. Enjoy a leisurely lunch onboard, featuring traditional Greek dishes. This day cruise offers a perfect blend of culture, relaxation, and scenic beauty, all within easy reach of Athens.

Delphi guided tour from Athens

Historical Landmark

Explore the heart of ancient Greece on a full-day trip to Delphi from Athens, complete with entrance tickets. Travel through the picturesque Greek countryside, passing traditional villages and stunning landscapes, as you make your way to the legendary site of Delphi. Once considered the center of the world in ancient times, Delphi is home to the famous Oracle and the majestic Temple of Apollo. With your entrance tickets in hand, delve into the rich history and mythology of this UNESCO World Heritage site, guided by expert commentary. Wander through the ancient ruins, visit the Delphi Archaeological Museum, and marvel at the breathtaking views of the surrounding mountains. This English-guided day trip offers a fascinating journey into Greece’s ancient past, all in the comfort of a well-organized tour.

Cape Sounion and Temple of Poseidon Half-Day Small-Group Tour from Athens

Admission

Discover the ancient wonders of Greece on a half-day small-group tour to Cape Sounion and the Temple of Poseidon from Athens. Journey along the scenic coastal road, enjoying panoramic views of the Aegean Sea as you make your way to one of Greece’s most iconic landmarks. Upon arrival, explore the majestic Temple of Poseidon, perched high on a cliff overlooking the azure waters below. Learn about the rich history and mythology surrounding this ancient site from your knowledgeable guide. Take in the breathtaking sunset, where the golden light casts a magical glow on the ruins and the sea. This intimate tour offers a perfect blend of history, culture, and natural beauty, making it an unforgettable experience just a short drive from Athens.

Luxury Catamaran Cruise from Athens with Traditional Greek Meal and BBQ

Natural Feature

Embark on a luxury catamaran cruise from Athens and immerse yourself in the breathtaking beauty of the Athenian Riviera. Set sail on crystal-clear waters, bask in the Mediterranean sun, and enjoy unparalleled views of Greece’s stunning coastline. As you glide across the azure sea, unwind in the comfort of our spacious catamaran, complete with modern amenities and a dedicated crew catering to your every need. Indulge in a traditional Greek meal prepared on board, featuring fresh, local ingredients and authentic flavors. Savor a delicious BBQ on deck, surrounded by the serene ambiance of the open sea. Whether you’re seeking relaxation, adventure, or a taste of Greek culture, this luxury cruise offers an unforgettable experience on the water.

Free Walking Tour of Athens

Historical Landmark

Picturesque Panorama of Athens with Acropolis hill at sunset, Athens, Greece. The Old Acropolis is the main attraction of Athens.
Saga Photo and Video / Shutterstock

Uncover the beauty of Athens by joining a free walking tour that starts at the Athens Metropolitan Cathedral and ends around Athens’s flea market. Led by local guides, you’re taken to key spots around the city, introducing you to some of its history, culture, food and shopping. The three-hour tour is ideal for getting the lay of the land, seeing some of Athens’s most popular tourist attractions while giving you the opportunity to interact with the locals.

Athens: Alternative Neighbourhoods Half-Day Walking Tour

Historical Landmark

Once you’ve seen the major sights of Athens there’s still plenty more to explore. This three-hour tour of alternative neighbourhoods takes you away from typical tourist traps and introduces you to boho bars and authentic boutique shops that show visitors Athenian culture. Starting off three times per day, you’ll get to see the city like never before, discovering hidden markets and secret restaurants, while learning about the history of the city from locals who have lived it.

Athens Original Street Art Tour

Art Gallery

Athens may not be a city that you associate with street art, but don’t let the ancient architecture overshadow the more modern works of art that are on display. See the city like never before by joining the street art tour led by a real street artist who will take you around three of the city’s most vibrant neighbourhoods.

Athens: 3-Hour Gods, Myths & Legends Tour w/ a Local

Historical Landmark

You can’t visit Athens and not learn about the ancient Greek gods. Not only will you hear the tales of mythical gods, but you’ll also see the sights and structures that inspired them, from spectacular views of the Acropolis to discovering lesser-known spots like the Varvakios Market. This private tour starts at the Trilogy of Athens, a complex of three elegant buildings representing the 12 Olympian gods.

Athens: Morning Bike Tour

Natural Feature

Seeing the sights of Athens may be too much to handle by foot, making this morning bike tour the perfect way to explore the city’s most popular attractions including the Panathenaic Stadium, the National Gardens and the picturesque streets of Plaka at the foot of the Acropolis. The three-and-a-half-hour bike tour starts at 9.30am, meaning you can avoid the midday heat and busier city crowds while still having time to grab breakfast beforehand. No more than 12 people are allowed on each tour, leaving plenty of opportunities to ask your guide for insider tips.

Original Gourmet Food Tour of Athens

Market, Greek

Time for souvlaki in Athens
ushashots / Shutterstock

If you’re looking to indulge in authentic Greek cuisine, you need to hit the streets. This gourmet food tour introduces you to all the mouth-watering delights that Athens has to offer. The four-hour tour starts with a traditional Greek breakfast in a 100-year-old café, but be sure to leave plenty of room to sample loukoumades (Greek donuts) and custard-filled filo squares, as well as pies, olives, meats and cheeses. Ideal for foodies, you’ll visit traditional stores, hole-in-the-wall restaurants serving local favourites, and the local meat and fish markets.

Athens Old City: Wine Tasting Experience

Wine Bar, Greek

The ancient Greek gods were known to drink wine when celebrating, and now you can too on this small, semi-private wine tasting experience. Starting at 6pm, this one-and-a-half-hour tour offers an introduction to Greek wines, their history and regions, paired with tales of Dionysus – the Greek god of wine. As you sample five local wines while overlooking the legendary Acropolis, you’ll learn how to be the perfect sommelier.

Athens Coastal Bike Tour

Natural Feature

Athens is a city that sits on the coast, meaning that stunning blue oceans are a stone’s throw away from the city centre. Take advantage of the breathtaking views and add some sea breeze and ocean views to your trip with this coastal bike tour. Starting in the centre of Athens, this four-and-a-half-hour morning bike ride takes you along the length of the Athens Riviera, giving you plenty of time to admire the deep blue water of the Saronic Gulf. Just remember to keep your eyes on the road. Stops along the tour include the SNFCC New Opera House, National Library of Athens and the luxurious Flisvos Marina, with a pit stop at Kalamaki Beach.

Athens: Sailing Cruise along the Coast

Natural Feature

Panoramic aerial view of the popular beach of Moni island, next to the village Perdika on Aegina island with turquoise sea, Saronic Gulf, Greece
Sven Hansche / Shutterstock

You don’t necessarily need to stay in Athens in order to enjoy the sights of the city. Spend the day swimming, snorkelling and sunbathing with views over the stunning Athens coastline. Starting at 9am, the five-hour morning cruise will sail towards Vouliagmeni Bay, past the Athenian Riviera and out off the coast where you’re free to swim or simply snack on authentic Greek tapas and have a cheeky glass of Greek wine.

This article is an updated version of a story created by Ethel Dilouambaka.

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