EXPERIENCE ATHENS LIKE A LOCAL

Tour of Athens (Full)

From the Acropolis to the Riviera — Athens at Your Own Pace

Duration: 8 hours • Distance: 67 km

Begin your journey with a visit to the iconic Acropolis of Athens and marvel at the breathtaking Temple of Parthenon . Then, explore the Hill of Philopappou and Thissio , where you can take in stunning views of the city and see the impressive Temple of Hephaestus . <br / Continue your adventure with a visit to the ancient Roman Temple of Zeus and the Panathenaic Stadium , where the first modern Olympic Games were held in 1896. Pay your respects to the Tomb of the Unknown Soldier in Constitution Square, then embark through the vibrant Plaka and Monastiraki neighborhoods, where you can soak up the lively atmosphere and indulge in some shopping. <br / The full day package also includes Lycabettus Hill — offering panoramic views of the city — the picturesque Mikrolimano harbour , and the stunning Stavros Niarchos Foundation Cultural Center , housing impressive collections of art and performances. Indulge in an optional traditional lunch in the elegant Kolonaki district, making your Athens adventure a truly unforgettable experience with Ianus VIP private tour.

Highlights

• Acropolis of Athens
• Stavros Niarchos Foundation Cultural Center
• Panathenaic Stadium
• Lycabettus Hill

Itinerary

1. Acropolis of Athens — The crown of Athens and one of the most iconic monuments in the world. Perched on a rocky hill, the Acropolis has dominated the skyline since the 5th century BC and remains the defining symbol of Western civilisation.
2. Temple of Parthenon — The masterpiece of classical Greek architecture, built between 447 and 432 BC in honour of the goddess Athena. Marvel at the 46 outer columns and the extraordinary Doric design that has influenced architecture across the globe.
3. Hill of Philopappou & Temple of Hephaestus — Climb to one of the best panoramic viewpoints in Athens with sweeping views over the Acropolis and the ancient Agora. The nearby Temple of Hephaestus is one of the best preserved ancient Greek temples in existence.
4. Roman Temple of Zeus — Also known as the Olympieion, this was once the largest temple in Greece. Construction began in the 6th century BC and was completed by Emperor Hadrian in 131 AD. Fifteen of its original 104 colossal columns still stand today.
5. Panathenaic Stadium — The only stadium in the world built entirely of marble and the site of the first modern Olympic Games in 1896. Originally built in 330 BC, it seats 50,000 spectators and remains an active venue today.
6. Statue of the Unknown Soldier — Syntagma Square is the political heart of modern Athens. The monument is guarded by the Evzones, whose ceremonial changing of the guard is one of the most photographed moments in the city.
7. Traditional Lunch at Kolonaki (Optional) — The elegant Kolonaki district is Athens at its most refined — boutique shops, gallery cafés, and some of the city's best traditional tavernas. Enjoy an optional traditional Greek lunch in this upscale neighbourhood.
8. Lycabettus Hill — At 277 metres, Lycabettus is the highest point in Athens and offers a breathtaking 360 degree panorama of the city, the Acropolis, and the Saronic Gulf. The small white Chapel of St George sits at the summit.
9. Mikrolimano — A picturesque small harbour in the Piraeus area, lined with seafood restaurants and sailing boats. Once the ancient harbour of Mounikhia, Mikrolimano is now one of Athens' most charming waterfront spots.
10. Stavros Niarchos Foundation Cultural Center — One of the most ambitious cultural infrastructure projects in modern Greek history, designed by Renzo Piano. Home to the Greek National Opera and the National Library, set within a stunning waterfront park.
11. Plaka & Monastiraki Neighborhoods — The oldest continuously inhabited neighbourhood in Athens, nestled at the foot of the Acropolis. Wander through narrow neoclassical streets, browse artisan shops, and soak in the atmosphere of this vibrant historic quarter.