How to Experience the Acropolis of Athens with a Self-Guided Audio Tour

For history and architecture buffs, visiting the Acropolis of Athens is a must. The iconic cluster of ancient monuments is not only a UNESCO World Heritage Site, but it also represents the birthplace of democracy, philosophy and the Western civilisation. While visiting the Acropolis, getting insightful guidance is essential: with the Acropolis of Athens Self-Guided Audio Tour, available online, visitors can explore the site independently, at their own pace and in their preferred language.

Overview of the Tour

This self-guided audio tour of the Acropolis of Athens is available for Android and iOS users in English. The audio content is offline, which means you can listen to it even in places with no internet connection. Also, the package includes an interactive map, to guide you to the must-see sights of the Acropolis, without incurring internet charges. The Athens audio tour can be activated at any convenient time from the Acropolis: there’s no need to set up a meeting point.

What’s Included?

This self-guided audio tour package includes entrance to the Acropolis, access to the audio guide and a map to the site’s highlights. The audio guide is available offline, so you don’t have to worry about running out of internet data while touring the monument. Tourists can activate the audio tour at any time of the day without needing to pre-book. The package does not include a live guide, smartphone, or headphones.

Meeting and Pickup

The Acropolis of Athens self-guided audio tour begins directly from the ticket house on the west side entrance of the Acropolis. There are no meeting points, so you can activate your audio tour with the activation link whenever you reach the monument. The easiest way to arrive at the Acropolis is by taking the Red Line metro from the Acropolis station.

Start Time and Opening Hours

The Acropolis of Athens is open all days of the week as per the following schedule: From 4th January 2023 to 15th May 2023, the opening hours are from 9:00 am to 4:30 pm. From 16th May 2023 to 31st August 2023, the opening hours are from 8:00 am to 6:30 pm. From 1st September 2023 to 30th September 2023 the opening hours are from 8:00 am to 6:00 pm. From 1st October 2023 to 31st October 2023, the opening hours are from 9:00 am to 5:00 pm. From 1st November 2023 to 31st March 2024, the opening hours are from 8:00 am to 3:30 pm.

End Point

You can end the audio tour either where you started or at any other point in the Acropolis. There’s no pre-defined endpoint, as you can tailor-make your own tour according to your interests.

What to Expect

The audio guide will give you unique insights into the history and legends behind the monuments such as the Propylaea, the Temple of Athena Nike, the Erechtheion, and, of course, the iconic Parthenon. Here’s a glimpse of what you’ll get to see:

Propylaea

The Propylaea served as a grand entrance to the Acropolis: the gateway was built by Mnesicles around 437-432 BCE. The large Doric structure borrowed elements from the older Gateway of Nicias, which it replaced. The double colonnaded façade featured an ornate ceiling that’s visible even today. In conclusion, the Acropolis of Athens Self-Guided Audio Tour is a flexible and informative way to experience one of the world’s most iconic monuments. Visitors can explore at their own pace, take breaks whenever they want, and learn about the fascinating history of Ancient Greece. Book the tour here and start exploring!

Frequently Asked Questions about Athens, Greece

Athens, the ancient capital of Greece, is known for its rich history, culture, and stunning architecture. Visitors from all over the world flock to Athens to experience its history, explore its ancient landmarks and museums, and indulge in Greek cuisine. In this article, we’ve answered some of the most frequently asked questions about Athens to help you plan your visit.

1. What is Athens, Greece famous for?

Athens is famous for its ancient landmarks such as the Acropolis, Parthenon, and the Temple of Olympian Zeus. It is also known for its rich history, philosophy, art, culture, and cuisine. Athens played a significant role in the development of Western Civilization and is often referred to as the cradle of Western Civilization.

2. What are the best places to visit in Athens?

There are many places to visit in Athens, some of the must-see landmarks include:

Acropolis of Athens:

This ancient citadel is home to some of the most significant landmarks of Athens, including the Parthenon, the Temple of Athena Nike, and the Erechtheion.

Parthenon:

The iconic temple dedicated to the Greek goddess Athena is located on the Acropolis.

Agora:

The former marketplace of Athens, where visitors can see the Temple of Hephaestus and the Stoa of Attalos.

National Archaeological Museum of Athens:

A world-famous museum that houses a vast collection of ancient Greek art and artifacts.

Plaka neighborhood:

A historic neighborhood with traditional Greek architecture, cafes, shops, and tavernas.

3. What is the best time to visit Athens?

The best time to visit Athens is from March to May or September to November when the weather is mild, and there are fewer crowds. July and August can be very hot and crowded, but if you don’t mind the heat, it’s still an enjoyable time to visit.

4. What is the currency used in Athens?

The currency used in Athens is the Euro. You can exchange your currency at the airport, banks, or at currency exchange offices in the city.

5. Is Athens a safe city for tourists?

Athens is generally a safe city for tourists. However, like in any big city, tourists must be aware of pickpocketing and other petty crimes. It’s always good to be cautious and aware of your surroundings, especially in crowded areas.

6. What is the food like in Athens?

Greek cuisine is famous for its fresh ingredients, herbs, and spices. Some of the must-try dishes when in Athens include:

Moussaka:

A baked dish made with layers of eggplant, ground meat, and bechamel sauce.

Souvlaki:

Grilled meat skewers usually served with pita bread and tzatziki sauce.

Greek Salad:

A refreshing salad made with tomato, cucumber, feta cheese, and olives.

Greek yogurt:

A thick and creamy yogurt usually served with honey and walnuts.

7. What is the best way to get around Athens?

The best way to get around Athens is by the metro, which is efficient, clean, and safe. There are also buses and trams that connect most parts of the city. Taxis are also available, but they can be more expensive, especially during peak hours.

8. What is the dress code in Athens?

Athens is a modern city, and there are no specific dress codes. However, when visiting religious sites such as monasteries or mosques, it’s recommended to dress modestly and avoid wearing shorts, sleeveless tops, or revealing clothing.

9. How can I learn more about Athens?

There are many ways to learn more about Athens, including visiting the museums and landmarks, taking a guided tour, or attending a cultural event or festival. There are also many resources available online, such as travel guides and blogs, that offer valuable insights and tips for visitors.

10. What are the cultural events and festivals in Athens?

Athens hosts many cultural events and festivals throughout the year, some of the most popular ones include:

Athens & Epidaurus Festival:

A summer festival that features theater, music, and dance performances in ancient theaters such as the Odeon of Herodes Atticus.

Greek National Day:

Celebrated on March 25th, this national holiday marks the beginning of the Greek War of Independence.

Apokries:

A three-week carnival leading up to Orthodox Lent, featuring parties, masquerades, and street parades.

Christmas and New Year’s:

Athens is beautifully decorated during the holiday season, and many events are held in the city center to celebrate Christmas and New Year’s.

Book Your Tour Now

Athens is a city rich in history, culture, and cuisine. Whether you’re interested in exploring the ancient landmarks, indulging in Greek cuisine, or attending cultural events, Athens has something to offer for everyone. By following the tips and recommendations in this article, you’ll be sure to have a memorable and enjoyable trip to Athens.

How to Spend Your Time as a Tourist in Athens

As the capital of Greece and one of the oldest cities in the world, Athens is home to some of the greatest historical and cultural wonders. The city is full of charm, history, and good food. With so much to see and do, it can be difficult to know where to start. In this guide, we will provide a detailed step-by-step guide on how to spend your time as a tourist in Athens.

1. Visit the Acropolis

No trip to Athens is complete without a visit to the Acropolis. This ancient citadel is home to some of the world’s most iconic buildings, such as the Parthenon, the Temple of Athena Nike, and the Erectheion. The Acropolis is open from 8 am to 8 pm daily, and we recommend visiting early in the morning to avoid the crowds.

Tip:

Buy your tickets in advance to save time and skip the long lines.

2. Explore the Ancient Agora

The Ancient Agora was once the heart of Athens and the center of political and social activity. Today it is a sprawling archaeological site full of ancient ruins, statues, and temples. Some of the highlights of the Ancient Agora include the Temple of Hephaestus, the Stoa of Attalos, and the Agora Museum.

Tip:

The Ancient Agora is within walking distance of the Acropolis, so plan to visit both sites in one day.

3. Take a Stroll through Plaka

Plaka is Athens’ historic district full of trendy restaurants, shops, and cafes. The narrow streets and colorful buildings of Plaka make for a charming and romantic destination.

Tip:

Visit Hadrian’s Library and the Roman Agora in Plaka to see some of the ancient Roman ruins that still remain in Athens.

4. Visit the National Archaeological Museum

The National Archaeological Museum is a must-visit attraction for anyone interested in Greek history and culture. The museum is home to an impressive collection of ancient artifacts, including the golden mask of Agamemnon, the Antikythera Mechanism, and the Statue of Zeus.

Tip:

The museum is closed on Tuesdays, so plan your visit accordingly.

5. Go to the Beach

Athens may be a bustling city, but it is also home to some of the most beautiful beaches in the world. Head to the coastal neighborhoods of Glyfada and Vouliagmeni to soak up some sun and sip on cocktails at the beachside bars.

Tip:

Take a dip in the mineral-rich waters of Lake Vouliagmeni for a unique and refreshing experience.

6. Try the Local Cuisine

Greek cuisine is renowned for its fresh flavors and healthy ingredients. Some dishes to try while in Athens include moussaka, souvlaki, and spanakopita.

Tip:

Visit the central market of Athens to see the vendors selling local ingredients and food products.

7. Go Shopping in Ermou Street

Athens is a shopper’s paradise with numerous markets and boutiques. Ermou Street is the city’s main shopping district, with a wide array of stores selling everything from designer clothes to handmade souvenirs.

Tip:

Visit the Monastiraki Flea Market to find unique and vintage items.

Book Your Tour Now

Athens is a city full of wonder and excitement. With its rich history, stunning architecture, and delicious cuisine, it is no wonder that it is such a popular tourist destination. By following this step-by-step guide, you can make the most of your trip to Athens and experience all that the city has to offer.