Historic Athens and the Acropolis
Duration: 3 1/2 hours
Tour Code: pir-001
Offering a glimpse of history, both ancient and recent, this tour begins at the Olympic Stadium, where the Olympic games were revived in 1896 and played again in 2004. Drive by the former Royal Palace, now the Parliament Building, which stands proudly on Constitution Square. You'll notice the ceremonial President Guard, known as the Evzones, guarding the Greek Tomb of the Unknown Soldier.
Next, you will enter the Acropolis through the Propylaea, the sacred gates guarding the sanctuary of Athena. Elegant Doric and Ionic columns stand in tandem and the magnificent Parthenon appears before you. It's a remarkable sight, as is the nearby Erechtheion Temple with its renowned Caryatids, six lovely maidens delicately carved into the columns that support the Caryatid Porch. You may also explore the graceful Temple of Athena Nike. Looking down from the Acropolis, don't miss the two ancient theaters in its shadow: the Greek theater of Dionysos, where the masterpieces of Sophocles and Euripides debuted, and the Odeon of Herod Atticus, a restored Roman theater that's still used for concerts and plays.
Please note: This tour includes approximately 1.5 hours of walking and/or standing and there is a considerable amount of steps to negotiate at the Acropolis (approximately 80 steps); therefore, this tour is not considered suitable for wheelchair guests or those with mobility concerns. Comfortable walking shoes are recommended. This tour does not include visit in the Museum of the Acropolis. Order of sights visited may vary. The actual tour duration may vary due to traffic conditions in Athens.