City Gems in Athens – Get Lost in Athens With an Insider

Looking for an exciting way to explore the Greek capital? Look no further than the City Gems in Athens tour! This insider tour is designed to help you discover the real Athens, beyond the top tourist attractions. Let’s take a closer look at what this tour entails.

Overview

Experience the delights of eclectic Athens on a tour that includes bustling markets, ancient marvels, and traditional coffeehouses. This tour will take you through the vibrant neighborhoods of Psiri and Kolonaki, where you can explore markets, coffeehouses, and street art galleries. You will pass by historic sites like Kerameikos Cemetery and the Temple of Hephaestus. Along the way, discover bold street art, foodie hotspots, handicraft workshops, and secret local hangouts.

Insider Tour of Athens

On this tour, you will get off-the-beaten-track in neighborhoods like Psiri and Kolonaki. Your local guide will take you to places that most tourists miss, revealing the real Athens beyond the top attractions. Experience local life as you explore markets, coffeehouses, and street art galleries together with a knowledgeable insider. You will pass by historic sites like Kerameikos Cemetery and the Temple of Hephaestus, with your guide giving you the inside scoop on their history and significance.

Experience the Real Athens Beyond the Top Attractions

This tour is perfect for travelers who love to immerse themselves in local culture. You’ll stroll through the streets of Athens, taking in the sights and sounds of daily Athenian life. Along the way, you’ll visit traditional coffee shops, where you can relax and enjoy a hot Greek coffee. In these places, you can experience everyday Athenian life and learn more about the city’s unique culture.

Several Departure Times Available Throughout the Day

This tour is available at several different times throughout the day, making it easy to fit into your schedule. Whether you’re an early bird or a night owl, you can find a departure time that suits you. Most tours begin in the morning or early afternoon, making it a great activity to add to your itinerary.

What’s Included

The City Gems in Athens tour provides you with everything you need to have an enjoyable and insightful experience. In addition to a knowledgeable local guide, you can enjoy a hot Greek coffee in a hidden traditional coffee shop. Plus, you’ll have guaranteed admission to skip long lines. Food and drinks are also included in the tour, so you won’t have to worry about additional expenses.

The Bottom Line

If you’re looking for an insider tour of Athens that takes you beyond the top tourist attractions, look no further than the City Gems in Athens tour. You’ll explore vibrant neighborhoods, experience local culture, and discover the real Athens with a knowledgeable guide. Book the tour here and get ready to discover the hidden gems of Athens.

Frequently Asked Questions About Athens

1. What is Athens, and where is it located?

Athens is the capital and largest city of Greece. It is situated in the region of Attica, on the eastern coast of the country, overlooking the Aegean Sea.

2. What is the history of Athens?

Athens is one of the oldest continuously inhabited cities in the world, having been inhabited for over 7,000 years. It is known as the birthplace of democracy and the cradle of Western civilization, as it was the center of learning, philosophy, and the arts in ancient Greece. The city was also home to many famous landmarks such as the Acropolis, the Parthenon, and the Temple of Olympian Zeus.

3. What are some popular tourist attractions in Athens?

There are plenty of must-see sights in Athens. These include:

i. The Acropolis

This ancient citadel is a UNESCO World Heritage Site and home to some of the most famous landmarks in Western civilization, including the Parthenon, the Temple of Athena Nike, and the Erechtheion. Visitors can take a guided tour or explore the site on their own.

ii. The Acropolis Museum

This museum showcases artifacts from the Acropolis and the surrounding area, including the Parthenon frieze and the Caryatids.

iii. The National Archaeological Museum

This museum is dedicated to Greek antiquities and features a vast collection of artifacts from the Neolithic period to the Roman era, including the famous gold Mask of Agamemnon.

iv. The Ancient Agora

This was once the political and commercial center of ancient Athens and features a range of well-preserved ruins and artifacts.

v. Plaka

This charming neighborhood is the oldest in Athens and is known for its winding alleyways, quaint shops, and restaurants serving traditional Greek cuisine.

4. What traditional Greek foods should visitors try in Athens?

Greek cuisine is renowned for its fresh, Mediterranean flavors. Some must-try dishes when visiting Athens include:

i. Moussaka

A baked dish made with layers of eggplant, minced meat, and potatoes, covered in a creamy béchamel sauce.

ii. Souvlaki

Grilled skewers of meat, usually pork or chicken, served with pita bread, tzatziki sauce, and fries.

iii. Greek salad

A refreshing salad made with feta cheese, olives, cucumbers, tomatoes, and onions.

iv. Spanakopita

A savory pastry filled with spinach, feta cheese, and onions.

v. Baklava

A sweet pastry made with layers of phyllo dough, honey, and chopped nuts.

5. What is the best time of year to visit Athens?

The best time to visit Athens is during the shoulder seasons of spring (March to May) and autumn (September to November). The weather is pleasant, the crowds are smaller, and the prices are more reasonable than during the peak summer months. However, do note that it can rain quite heavily in Athens during the winter months (December to February).

6. How can visitors get around Athens?

Athens has an extensive public transportation system, including buses, trams, and a metro system that connects most of the city’s major sights. Visitors can purchase a multi-day pass or individual tickets. Taxis are also readily available but can be quite expensive. Many visitors also choose to explore the city on foot, as many of the top attractions are located within walking distance of each other.

7. What are some other places to visit near Athens?

There are many day trips and excursions that visitors to Athens can take. Some popular destinations include:

i. The Temple of Poseidon at Sounion

Located on a cliff overlooking the sea, this temple is a stunning example of ancient Greek architecture.

ii. The island of Hydra

This quaint island is known for its picturesque harbor, old-world charm, and rugged coastline.

iii. The archaeological site of Delphi

This ancient city was once home to the Oracle of Delphi and holds significant cultural and historical importance.

iv. The island of Aegina

Known for its beautiful beaches and charming towns, Aegina is a popular day trip destination from Athens.

8. What are some useful Greek phrases for travelers to know?

Some handy phrases to know when traveling in Athens include:

i. Kalimera

(Good morning)

ii. Parakalo

(Please)

iii. Efharisto

(Thank you)

iv. Signomi

(Excuse me)

v. Poso kani afto?

(How much does this cost?)

vi. Thelo na paro ena map

(I would like to have a map)

vii. Pote anoigei to mousio?

(When does the museum open?)

How to spend your time as a tourist in Athens

As the capital of Greece, Athens is a city that attracts millions of visitors every year. It is a city rich in history, culture and art, and it is the perfect destination for anyone looking for an engaging vacation experience. From ancient ruins to modern amenities, there is something for everyone in Athens. In this article, we will provide you with a detailed guide on how to spend your time as a tourist in Athens.

Getting around Athens

The easiest and most common way to get around Athens is by using the metro system. The metro system in Athens is clean, reliable, and affordable. It covers most of the city, including the airport, and it is the fastest way to get from one point to another. There are also buses that operate 24/7, but they can be slower and less convenient than the metro.

Exploring the Acropolis

The Acropolis is perhaps the most famous landmark in Athens. It is a must-visit for any tourist in the city. The Acropolis is a complex of ancient buildings and ruins, including the world-renowned Parthenon. The best time to visit the Acropolis is early in the morning to avoid the crowds and the heat. Be sure to wear comfortable shoes and bring water along with you.

Visiting the National Archaeological Museum

The National Archaeological Museum is one of the most important museums in the world. It houses an impressive collection of ancient Greek artifacts, including sculptures, pottery, and jewelry. The museum is open from 8:00 am to 8:00 pm, and admission is €10.00. A guided tour is highly recommended to fully appreciate the exhibits and their historical significance.

Taking a stroll through Plaka

Plaka is one of the oldest neighborhoods in Athens. It is located at the foot of the Acropolis and is known for its narrow streets, traditional houses, and quaint cafés. A stroll through Plaka provides tourists with a glimpse of the old-world charm of Athens. There are also many souvenir shops and restaurants selling traditional Greek food.

Exploring the Anafiotika neighborhood

Anafiotika is a small, picturesque neighborhood located on the slopes of the Acropolis. It is a hidden gem that many tourists overlook. The neighborhood is characterized by its white-washed houses, narrow alleyways, and stunning views of the city. It is the perfect place to take a walk and escape the bustling crowds of the city.

Shopping in Monastiraki and Psirri

Monastiraki and Psirri are two of the most vibrant neighborhoods in Athens. They are known for their flea markets, shops selling souvenirs, and traditional food stalls. These neighborhoods are perfect for travelers looking for unique gifts to bring back home.

Enjoying Greek cuisine

Greek cuisine is famous all over the world. From moussaka to gyros, there is something for everyone in Athens. Be sure to try traditional dishes such as fresh seafood, stuffed vegetables, and feta cheese. Tavernas are the best places to sample authentic Greek cuisine.

Getting a bird’s-eye view of Athens

Finally, a visit to Athens is incomplete without getting a bird’s-eye view of the city. There are several vantage points in the city that offer stunning views of Athens, including the Lycabettus Hill, the hill of Philopappos and the rooftop bars of some of the hotels downtown. These places are perfect for taking memorable photos and enjoying a drink while watching the sunset.

Book Your Tour Now

Athens is a city that offers endless opportunities for tourists to explore, discover and enjoy. From ancient ruins to modern amenities, there is something for everyone in Athens. We hope that this guide has provided you with the necessary information to plan a fun and engaging vacation in Athens. Remember to wear comfortable shoes, stay hydrated, and above all, enjoy your time in this historic and beautiful city.