Best of Athens, Acropolis, Food & Wine Tour All in One

This comprehensive tour of Athens offers an unparalleled opportunity to take in the city’s rich history, iconic landmarks, and captivating culinary delights. From the awe-inspiring Acropolis to the panoramic vistas of Lycabettus Hill, the tour guides visitors through the city’s most significant sites. Complementing the cultural exploration, the experience culminates in a traditional Greek lunch and an exclusive wine tasting, showcasing the vibrant flavors that have made Athens a renowned gastronomic destination. Whether you’re a first-time visitor or a seasoned traveler, this tour promises to leave you with a deeper appreciation for the multifaceted charm of the Greek capital.

Key Points

• This comprehensive tour provides a full-day experience in Athens, covering the Acropolis, panoramic city views, historical landmarks, and a traditional Greek lunch with wine tasting.

• The tour offers a guided visit to the Acropolis, allowing in-depth exploration of the Parthenon and other ancient ruins with a dedicated guide.

• Participants will enjoy a photo stop at Lycabettus Hill, providing breathtaking panoramic views of the city, and visit Syntagma Square to witness the changing of the guard.

• The tour includes a visit to the Panathenaic Stadium, the only all-marble stadium that hosted the first modern Olympic Games in 1896.

• The immersive food and wine experience features a 2.5-hour traditional Greek lunch and a wine tasting session, showcasing the local flavors and Greek wine selection.

Tour Overview and Pricing

Priced at $447.72 for groups of up to 8 participants, the "Best of Athens" tour offers a comprehensive 6-hour (possibly extending to 7 hours) exploration of the city’s top attractions.

Guests can cancel up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund, and no payment is required to reserve a spot.

The tour features 2 hours at the Acropolis, a photo stop at Lycabettus Hill, and visits to Syntagma Square, the Panathenaic Stadium, and the Athenian Trilogy.

The experience culminates with a 2.5-hour traditional Greek lunch and wine tasting.

Transportation and a dedicated guide for the Acropolis are included, though entrance fees are not.

Itinerary Highlights

The tour’s itinerary showcases Athens’ iconic landmarks, offering visitors a comprehensive exploration of the city’s rich history and cultural heritage.

Over the 6-7 hour experience, guests will spend 2 hours sightseeing at the renowned Acropolis, snap photos of the breathtaking views from Lycabettus Hill, and visit Syntagma Square to see the Parliament and Tomb of the Unknown Soldier.

The tour also includes a stop at the Panathenaic Stadium, the only all-marble stadium, as well as the chance to explore the Athenian Trilogy of neoclassical buildings.

Throughout the day, you will enjoy the local markets before enjoying a traditional Greek lunch and wine tasting.

Acropolis of Athens

At the heart of the Best of Athens tour lies the captivating Acropolis of Athens, where visitors will spend 2 hours exploring this iconic ancient citadel.

The tour highlights include:

• Marveling at the magnificent Parthenon, the temple dedicated to the goddess Athena and a symbol of ancient Greek civilization.
• Wandering through the ancient ruins, imagining the bustling life of the ancient Athenians.
• Admiring the breathtaking views of the city skyline from the elevated vantage point of the Acropolis.

The guided tour provides an in-depth understanding of the Acropolis’s rich history and significance, allowing participants to fully enjoy the grandeur of this UNESCO World Heritage site.

Lycabettus Hill

Following the stunning Acropolis of Athens, the Best of Athens tour takes visitors to the breathtaking Lycabettus Hill.

This 30-minute stop provides panoramic views of the city. Towering over Athens at 277 meters, Lycabettus Hill offers a picturesque photo opportunity with the Acropolis and the city skyline in the background. Guests can admire the quaint chapel of St. George at the summit.

The tour then continues to Syntagma Square, where you will see the Parliament building and Tomb of the Unknown Soldier.

Syntagma Square

Next, the tour proceeds to Syntagma Square, where you will spend approximately 20 minutes exploring the area.

This prominent square in central Athens is home to the Greek Parliament building and the Tomb of the Unknown Soldier.

Visitors can:

• Observe the changing of the guard ceremony, where elite soldiers in traditional Greek uniforms perform a precise, choreographed routine.
• Capture photos of the neoclassical Parliament building and its grand facade.
• Explore the lively square, bustling with locals and travelers alike, soaking in the vibrant atmosphere of the city’s political and cultural heart.

The tour then moves on to the next stop, the Panathenaic Stadium, where you will learn about its unique history and architecture.

Panathenaic Stadium

The tour then proceeds to the Panathenaic Stadium, the only stadium in the world built entirely of marble. This iconic venue hosted the first modern Olympic Games in 1896 and continues to serve as a venue for various events today. Visitors can explore this historic site and capture stunning photos from its marble steps.

Feature	Description
Construction	Built entirely of marble
Hosted Events	First modern Olympic Games in 1896
Current Use	Hosts various events
Photo Opportunities	Marble steps offer great city views
Visit Duration	Approximately 20 minutes

Athenian Trilogy

The Athenian Trilogy refers to the trio of neoclassical buildings that stand as architectural masterpieces in the heart of Athens.

During the tour, visitors get to witness the grandeur of these structures:

• The Academy of Athens, home to Greece’s premier institution of higher learning
• The National Library, a repository of knowledge and culture
• The National University, a symbol of academic excellence

These buildings, with their harmonious facades and classical elements, embody the city’s rich intellectual heritage and serve as a testament to its enduring commitment to education and scholarship.

Food and Wine Experience

Savoring the local flavors is an integral part of the Best of Athens tour. The lunch includes a traditional Greek salad, two starters like dips and dolmadakia, and a choice of a main dish – either meat or fish.

To complement the meal, the tour offers a wine tasting of five Greek varietals, including Agiorgitiko, Moschato Alexandrias, Syrah, Malagousia, and Assyrtiko. The wine tasting fee of €40 per guest isn’t included in the tour price, but it provides an opportunity to explore the rich and diverse Greek wine selection.

This immersive food and wine experience is a highlight of the comprehensive Best of Athens tour.

Frequently Asked Questions

What Is the Dress Code for the Tour?

The tour doesn’t specify a dress code, but comfortable walking shoes and weather-appropriate clothing are recommended. Guests should dress casually and be prepared for some walking during the tour.

Can We Make Any Dietary Requests for the Lunch?

Yes, guests can make dietary requests for the included lunch. The tour provider offers flexibility to accommodate various dietary needs, such as vegetarian, vegan, or gluten-free options, upon prior request.

Are Gratuities Included in the Tour Price?

No, gratuities are not included in the tour price. Customers are expected to provide tips for the guide and any other service staff, as is customary in the local culture. The tour price covers only the specified inclusions.

What Is the Maximum Group Size for This Tour?

The maximum group size for this tour is 8 participants. According to the tour overview, the price is for a group of up to 8 people.

Can We Purchase Acropolis Tickets on the Day of the Tour?

Acropolis tickets cannot be purchased on the day of the tour. The tour price does not include Acropolis tickets, which cost €20 for full price and €10 for reduced price. Tickets should be booked in advance.

Recap

This comprehensive tour offers a perfect blend of Athens’ iconic landmarks, rich history, and delectable local cuisine. Visitors can marvel at the Acropolis, enjoy panoramic city views, and savor traditional Greek flavors complemented by fine wines. It’s an immersive experience that allows travelers to fully enjoy the cultural and culinary essence of Athens.