Explore Athens’ ancient wonders on a customizable half-day private shore excursion. Tour the iconic Acropolis and Temple of Olympian Zeus with a licensed guide, who’ll provide insightful commentary. Transportation is wheelchair-accessible, and the itinerary can be adjusted to skip lines. While entry fees aren’t included, the flexibility ensures you focus on your preferred highlights. With consistent praise for attentive service and historical insights, this excursion offers an immersive yet efficient way to discover Athens’ rich heritage. Learn more about how this tour can enhance your Athens experience.
This experience made our list of the 25 Best Shore Excursions In Athens.
Key Points
- Enjoy a half-day private shore excursion to Athens’ iconic landmarks, including the Acropolis and the Temple of Olympian Zeus.
- Benefit from round-trip, wheelchair-accessible transportation with English-speaking drivers to navigate the city efficiently.
- Customize the itinerary to skip long lines and focus on preferred highlights, with the option to hire a licensed tour guide.
- Explore the ancient citadel of the Acropolis, housing the Parthenon, Propylaea, and Erechtheion, and gain deeper insights into their historical significance.
- Visit the impressive ruins of the Temple of Olympian Zeus, a testament to ancient architectural ambition, with the flexibility to adjust the duration of your stay.
Acropolis: Ancient Wonders
Visitors to Athens are drawn to the Acropolis, an ancient citadel towering over the city. This archaeological wonder houses several iconic structures, including the Propylaea, the grand entrance; the Parthenon, a magnificent temple dedicated to Athena; and the Erechtheion, known for its intricate carvings.
Nearby, the Theater of Dionysus and the Odeon of Herod Atticus provide a glimpse into ancient Greek performance arts. Though admission tickets aren’t included, exploring these legendary sites offers a profound connection to Athens’ rich history.
With an expert guide, travelers can delve deeper into the significance and stories behind these remarkable ruins.
You can also read our reviews of more tours and experiences in Athens.
Temple of Olympian Zeus
Situated just a short distance from the Acropolis, the Temple of Olympian Zeus stands as a testament to ancient Greek architectural grandeur. Construction on this colossal temple began in the 6th century BC, though it took over 600 years to complete, finally finishing in the 2nd century AD. The temple was dedicated to the Olympian Zeus, and was known for its 104 massive columns, as well as housing one of the largest cult statues in the ancient world. While the temple is now mostly in ruins, visitors can still marvel at the sheer scale and ambition of this impressive structure.
Key Facts | |||
---|---|---|---|
Construction Period | 6th century BC to 2nd century AD | Dedicated To | Olympian Zeus |
Number of Columns | 104 colossal columns | Housed | One of the largest cult statues in ancient world |
Current Status | Mostly in ruins | Duration | Approx. 15 minutes |
Admission Ticket | Not included |
Transportation and Accessibility
The tour includes round-trip, wheelchair-accessible transportation, with pickups from the Piraeus area and Athens suburbs.
Complimentary amenities like WiFi, cold mineral water, fuel, and tolls are provided.
The English-speaking drivers aren’t allowed to escort guests into sites or museums, but they can help navigate long lines.
Guests have the option to add a licensed tour guide for an additional fee.
While entrance fees to the Acropolis and Temple of Olympian Zeus aren’t included, the total cost is approximately 40 euros per person.
Cancellation is free up to 24 hours before the experience.
Customizable Itinerary
The tour’s itinerary can be adjusted to skip long lines and optimize the experience for guests. This allows them to efficiently navigate the attractions and spend more time at the sites. The tour can be customized to better suit individual preferences and needs.
Option | Description | Cost |
---|---|---|
Skip Long Lines | Bypass lengthy queues at popular sites | Included |
Adjust Itinerary | Modify the order or duration of stops | Included |
Add Licensed Guide | Enhance the experience with a knowledgeable local guide | Additional Fee |
Additional Entrance Fees | Access to certain sites and museums | Approximately 40 euros per person |
This flexibility ensures guests make the most of their limited time in Athens, focusing on the highlights that interest them the most.
Licensed Tour Guide
For an additional fee, guests can opt to have a licensed tour guide accompany them on the excursion.
These guides are experts in the history and culture of Athens, providing in-depth commentary and insights that enhance the overall experience.
With a licensed guide, guests can delve deeper into the significance of the Acropolis, the Temple of Olympian Zeus, and other iconic sites.
This personalized service ensures guests make the most of their limited time, navigating the attractions efficiently and learning fascinating details they might’ve missed on their own.
The additional cost provides tremendous value for those seeking a more comprehensive and enriching tour.
- Acropolis and Parthenon Guided Walking Tour
- Acropolis Monuments & Parthenon Walking Tour With Optional Acropolis Museum
- Small-Group Greek Traditional Food Tour Around Athens With Tastings
- Delphi One Day Trip From Athens With Pickup and Optional Lunch
- Luxury Catamaran Cruise From Athens With Traditional Greek Meal and BBQ
- Athens All Included: Acropolis and Museum Guided Tour With Ticket
Additional Costs
Aside from the base tour price, guests can expect to incur additional costs for certain services and entry fees. A licensed tour guide is available upon request for an additional fee.
Plus, guests will need to pay for admission tickets to the Acropolis and Temple of Olympian Zeus, which cost approximately 40 euros per person.
Any other incidentals like lunch, gratuity, and other miscellaneous expenses are also the responsibility of your.
The tour operator provides transparent pricing, allowing travelers to plan their budget accordingly.
Cancellation Policy
Travelers can take advantage of the tour operator’s flexible cancellation policy. This allows for free cancellation up to 24 hours before the scheduled experience. This provides peace of mind and flexibility, should unexpected circumstances arise.
Some key benefits of the cancellation policy include:
- No fees for cancellations made with at least 24 hours’ notice
- Ability to reschedule the tour for a later date if needed
- Refund of any pre-paid entrance fees or costs
- Hassle-free changes to accommodate last-minute schedule adjustments
With this worry-free cancellation policy, travelers can book the Half Day Private Athens Shore Excursion with confidence, knowing they’ve the flexibility to make changes as needed.
Guest Experiences
Guests who experienced the Half Day Private Athens Shore Excursion consistently praised the tour’s attentive service and insightful historical information.
Reviewers highlighted the knowledgeable drivers and guides, who provided personalized experiences and efficiently navigated the attractions.
Notably, guests appreciated the drivers’ thoughtful gestures, such as providing cold water during hot weather and ensuring timely pickups, which enhanced the overall experience.
Common themes in the reviews included excellent service, in-depth historical context, and a seamless flow through the Acropolis and Temple of Olympian Zeus.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can the Pickup Location Be Customized Beyond Piraeus Area and Athens Suburbs?
Yes, the pickup location can be customized beyond the Piraeus area and Athens suburbs. The tour provider offers flexible pickup options to accommodate the traveler’s needs and preferences.
Is It Possible to Extend the Tour Duration Beyond 5 Hours?
Yes, the tour duration can be extended beyond 5 hours. The itinerary can be customized to accommodate longer tours, allowing visitors to explore more of Athens’ historic sites and attractions at their own pace.
What Is the Maximum Group Size for This Private Tour?
The maximum group size for this private tour is not specified in the overview. Most private tours typically accommodate small groups, often up to 6-8 people, to provide a more personalized experience.
Do the Vehicles Have Car Seats for Children?
The vehicles have car seats for children available upon request. The transportation provided is wheelchair accessible, ensuring a comfortable and safe experience for all participants, including families with young children.
Can the Tour Be Conducted in Languages Other Than English?
Yes, the tour can be conducted in languages other than English. The provider offers guides who speak a variety of languages, so travelers can enjoy the experience in their preferred language.
Sum Up
Enjoy the captivating history of Athens on this private shore excursion. Explore iconic landmarks like the Acropolis and Temple of Olympian Zeus with a knowledgeable guide. Enjoy the comfort of private transportation and the flexibility to customize your itinerary. This half-day adventure promises an unforgettable experience that will leave you with a deeper appreciation for Athens’ rich cultural heritage.
More Private Tours in Athens
- Private Food Tour Athens, Travel like a Food Editor.
- Heraklion: Knossos Private Full-day tour
- Private Panorama all about Athens and cape Sounio (8 hours)
- Private Luxury Tour: The Sacred Way – Athens to Eleusis
- Private Excursion 2 Days: Athens – Nafpaktos & Mountainous Nafpaktia
- Private luxury tour of Mycenae, Nafplio, Epidaurus and Canal
More Tours in Athens
More Tour Reviews in Athens
Not for you? Here's more nearby things to do in Athens we have reviewed
- From Athens: Mycenae, Epidaurus & Nafplio Full-Day Tour
- Run and Discover Athens
- No Diet Club – Unique local Food Tour in Athens!
- Explore the Athenian Riviera with food and wine
- Dream Tour Athens: Acropolis Guided Tour and Wine Tasting
- Hiking in Athens: The Dragon House of Mount Hymettus
- Exclusive Athens Tour From the Acropolis to Mount Lycabettus
- From Athens: Explore Ancient Corinth & Charming Nafplion
- Combo: Acropolis Ticket & Saronic Swimming Cruise Experience
- Private Food Tour Athens, Travel like a Food Editor.
- Personalized Culinary Experience in Athens
- Modern Vibes of Athens Tour