Athens Super Saver Tour Review: Is It Worth It

The Athens Super Saver Tour seems like a convenient way to pack in the city’s top sights. With hotel pickup and knowledgeable guides, it’s an attractive option for many travelers. However, the tightly-scheduled itinerary may leave little room for independent exploration, which could be a drawback for those who prefer a more flexible pace. Whether it’s worth it ultimately depends on your travel style and interests. If you’re a history buff eager to hit the highlights, this tour might be just the ticket. But if you value unstructured discovery, you may want to consider other options.

Key Points

1. The Athens Super Saver Tour offers a convenient and budget-friendly way to explore the Acropolis, Mycenae, and Epidaurus over two days with a knowledgeable guide.

2. The tour’s tight schedule and lack of independent exploration time may not appeal to travelers seeking a more leisurely experience.

3. The tour is not wheelchair accessible, and alternative options may be necessary for those with mobility issues.

4. The scenic coastal drive and exceptional guides can enhance the overall experience, though the order of the tour may be a concern for some.

5. Exploring Athens independently can provide a more personalized experience and the opportunity to discover hidden gems, though it may require more planning and logistics.

Tour Overview

The Athens Super Saver combines two of the city’s top-selling tours into a discounted package that spans two days.

On the first day, you’ll explore the iconic Acropolis and its surrounding sites, including the Athena Nike temple and the New Acropolis Museum.

The second day takes you on a scenic drive along the Saronic Gulf coast to the ancient sites of Mycenae and Epidaurus.

This comprehensive tour allows you to tick off the must-visit ancient sights without having to organize everything yourself.

The tour includes transportation, entrance fees, and a professional English-speaking guide, making it a convenient and budget-friendly way to experience Athens’ rich history.

Tour Details

The Athens Super Saver tour spans two separate days, which you can choose to take in any order that suits your schedule.

You’ll travel in air-conditioned comfort, accompanied by a professional English-speaking guide. Hotel pickup is available from select hotels, and entrance tickets to the Acropolis, Mycenae, and Epidaurus are included.

Just keep in mind that gratuities, meals, and drinks aren’t covered. The tour meets at the Amalia Hotel Athens in Syntagma Square, with pickup from 7:30 to 8:15 am and departure at 8:30 am.

At the end, you’ll return to the same meeting point. This tour isn’t wheelchair accessible, and a moderate level of physical fitness is required.

Meeting and Pickup

The meeting point for the Athens Super Saver tour is Amalia Hotel Athens, located in Syntagma Square.

Pickup service begins at 7:30 AM and runs until 8:15 AM, with the tour departing promptly at 8:30 AM.

At the end of the tour, you’ll be dropped off right back at the meeting point.

This convenient pickup and drop-off setup makes it easy to join the tour, even if you’re staying at a nearby hotel.

Just keep in mind that the tour isn’t wheelchair accessible, so those with mobility issues may want to consider other options.

Important Considerations

According to the information provided, there are a few important considerations to keep in mind when booking the Athens Super Saver tour.

First, the tour isn’t wheelchair accessible, so those with mobility issues may have difficulty. Plus, infants must sit on laps during the tour.

Children aged 5-12 will need a passport or ID to receive the discounted price.

It’s also important to note that the tour doesn’t run on Christmas Day, New Year’s Day, or Orthodox Easter.

Finally, the entrance tickets are non-refundable, so cancellations at the last minute could result in forfeiting the cost.

Highlights and Lowlights

Travelers on the Athens Super Saver tour rave about the exceptional guides who bring the ancient sites to life with their expert knowledge and captivating storytelling. The scenic drive along the Saronic Gulf coast is another highlight, offering breathtaking views of the Mediterranean. However, some travelers noted issues with the tour’s timing and organization, feeling they didn’t have enough time to explore the sites at their own pace.

Highlights	Lowlights
Knowledgeable, engaging guides	Tight, inflexible schedule
Stunning coastal scenery	Lack of independent exploration time
Convenient hotel pickup service	Concerns about tour order and logistics

While the tour provides a rundown of Athens’ top attractions, travelers seeking a more leisurely experience may prefer to explore the sites independently.

Navigating the Experience

Navigating the Athens Super Saver tour is a straightforward process. The tour includes clear meeting and pickup information, with the starting point at the Amalia Hotel Athens in Syntagma Square.

Pickup service runs from 7:30 to 8:15 AM, with a prompt 8:30 AM departure. The tour ends back at the same meeting point. An air-conditioned coach provides comfortable transportation, and an English-speaking guide is included to lead the way.

While meals and gratuities aren’t covered, entrance tickets to the Acropolis, Mycenae, and Epidaurus are provided. Just be mindful of the physical fitness requirement and age restrictions for children to ensure a smooth experience.

Exploring Athens Independently

One way to explore Athens independently and at a more leisurely pace is to simply wander the historic streets and neighborhoods on your own. This allows you to discover hidden gems, interact with locals, and set your own schedule. The table below outlines some of the top sites to explore independently in Athens:

Site	Highlights
Plaka	Charming old town with winding streets, shops, and cafes
Monastiraki	Bustling flea market and square with ancient ruins
Syntagma Square	Home to the Greek Parliament and Tomb of the Unknown Soldier
Mount Lycabettus	Panoramic views of Athens from the highest point in the city
National Archaeological Museum	World-class collection of ancient Greek artifacts

Exploring Athens at your own pace can provide a more immersive and personalized experience compared to a structured tour.

Since You Asked

What Is the Cost of the Athens Super Saver Tour?

The cost of the Athens Super Saver tour isn’t mentioned in the details provided. It’s a combined tour with a discounted price, but the exact cost isn’t specified. You’d need to check with the tour operator for pricing information.

Does the Tour Accommodate Vegetarian or Dietary Restrictions?

The Athens Super Saver Tour doesn’t explicitly mention accommodating vegetarian or dietary restrictions. However, it’s best to check with the tour operator ahead of time to see if they can cater to any special dietary needs.

Can I Book the Tours on Separate Days if Desired?

Yes, you can book the two tours on separate days if desired. The tour overview states the tour includes "two separate days, in any order", allowing flexibility to experience the Acropolis and Mycenae/Epidaurus tours on different days.

Is There a Discount for Senior or Student Tickets?

The tour operator doesn’t offer any discounts for seniors or students on the Athens Super Saver tour. Children aged 5-12 can get a discounted price by showing their passport or ID, but there are no other age-based concessions available.

How Reliable Is the Hotel Pickup Service?

The hotel pickup service is generally reliable, though some customers have reported occasional mix-ups or delays. It’s best to confirm your pickup location and time with the tour company the day before to avoid any issues.

The Sum Up

The Athens Super Saver Tour provides a convenient and budget-friendly way to see the city’s top historical sites. While the tight schedule may limit independent exploration, it’s a worthwhile option for those who want a rundown of Athens’ highlights with knowledgeable guides. Travelers seeking a more leisurely pace may find the experience less suitable, but overall, it’s a good choice for history enthusiasts.