How to Plan Your Athens: Early Morning Acropolis & Plaka Guided Walking Tour

Are you planning a trip to Athens and want to make the most out of your visit to the iconic Acropolis? There is no better way to experience this UNESCO World Heritage Site than with a guided walking tour. Especially an early morning tour which allows you to beat the heat and avoid the crowds! This tour is the perfect way to experience the Acropolis and Plaka, Athens’ Old Town, without any of the hassle. Read on to learn how to plan your Athens: Early Morning Acropolis & Plaka Guided Walking Tour.

Experience

The Athens: Early Morning Acropolis & Plaka Guided Walking Tour is an unforgettable experience that will take you through the rich history of the Acropolis and Plaka. From the classical architecture of the Parthenon to the cobbled streets and traditional houses of Plaka, this tour has it all. With a licensed tour guide and wireless audio guide system, you will be able to see the Acropolis up close and personal, without missing a single word of your guide’s informative commentary.

Highlights

The Athens: Early Morning Acropolis & Plaka Guided Walking Tour has a variety of highlights that will make your visit to the Acropolis something to remember. Some of the highlights include:

1. Beat the heat and crowds with an early morning tour of the Acropolis
2. Learn about the history of this iconic site from your professional guide
3. Hear every word your guide says with a wireless audio guide system
4. Enjoy quick access with a skip-the-line ticket
5. Marvel at the centuries-old architecture of this UNESCO World Heritage Site

Full Description

The Athens: Early Morning Acropolis & Plaka Guided Walking Tour is a 3-hour journey that will start at the Acropolis Museum. You will then proceed to skip-the-line access at the Acropolis and walk the narrow cobblestone streets of the historic Plaka district. Your professional licensed tour guide will guide you through the ancient ruins of the Parthenon Erechtheion and other sites, explaining their fascinating histories and architectural wonders. With a wireless audio guide system, you can hear every word your guide says without any distractions. The Athens: Early Morning Acropolis & Plaka Guided Walking Tour also includes the entrance fees to the Acropolis (if the option is selected) and hotel pickup and drop-off for a hassle-free experience.

Booking the Tour

You can book the Athens: Early Morning Acropolis & Plaka Guided Walking Tour directly on GetYourGuide, a trusted third-party booking platform. Book the tour here and get ready for an unforgettable experience, but make sure you do it in advance to avoid sold-out bookings.

What to Expect

Before you go on the Athens: Early Morning Acropolis & Plaka Guided Walking Tour, here are some important things to keep in mind:

• Wear comfortable shoes as there will be a bit of walking involved
• Bring a hat and sunscreen as it can get hot during the day
• This tour is not suitable for wheelchair users

Book Your Tour Now

The Athens: Early Morning Acropolis & Plaka Guided Walking Tour is the perfect way to experience the iconic Acropolis and Plaka. With a licensed tour guide, skip-the-line access, and wireless audio guide system, you will get an up-close and personal view of this UNESCO World Heritage Site without any of the hassle. Book your tour today and get ready for a trip through time!

Frequently Asked Questions About Athens

1. What is Athens known for?

Athens is known for its rich history, as it was one of the most powerful cities in ancient Greece and considered the birthplace of Western civilization. The city is also known for its famous landmarks such as the Acropolis and its ancient ruins, including the Parthenon and the Temple of Olympian Zeus. Athens is also known for its delicious food, bustling nightlife, and sun-soaked coastline.

2. How do I get to Athens?

Athens is served by the Eleftherios Venizelos International Airport (ATH), located approximately 20 kilometers east of the city center. There are numerous airlines that offer flights to Athens from major cities around the world. Once you arrive at the airport, you can take a metro, bus or taxi to get to your destination in the city.

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

The best time of year to visit Athens is during the spring (March to May) and fall (September to November) when the weather is mild and the crowds are smaller. During the summer months (June to August), the city can get extremely hot, crowded and expensive, but it offers the opportunity to enjoy some of the city’s beaches.

4. What are the top things to do in Athens?

There are many things to see and do in Athens, including:

• Visiting the Acropolis and the Parthenon
• Exploring the ancient ruins, such as the Temple of Olympian Zeus and the Ancient Agora
• Taking a stroll through the Plaka neighborhood, known for its winding cobblestone streets, shops, and restaurants
• Visiting the National Archaeological Museum to learn about Greece’s ancient history
• Enjoying a coffee or ouzo in one of the city’s many cafes or bars

5. Is Athens a safe city?

Athens is generally a safe city, but like any big city, it is important to take precautions to ensure your safety. Keep an eye on your belongings, especially in crowded areas and be aware of any scams or pickpocketing attempts. It is also wise to avoid any demonstrations or protests.

6. What is the local currency in Athens?

The local currency in Athens is the Euro. ATMs are widely available throughout the city, and credit cards are accepted at most restaurants and shops.

7. What is the cuisine like in Athens?

Greek cuisine is known for its fresh ingredients, simple but flavorful dishes, and Mediterranean influences. Some of the must-try dishes in Athens include moussaka, souvlaki, Greek salad, and spanakopita.

8. What are the best areas to stay in Athens?

The best areas to stay in Athens depend on your preferences and budget. The Plaka and Monastiraki neighborhoods are popular for their central location, historic charm, and proximity to popular tourist sites. The trendy neighborhood of Psirri is known for its art galleries, nightlife, and restaurants. For a more upscale experience, consider staying in the neighborhoods of Kolonaki or Syntagma.

9. What are some popular day trips from Athens?

Athens is the perfect base for exploring the surrounding areas. Some popular day trips from Athens include:

• Visiting the ancient site of Delphi
• Exploring the Temple of Poseidon at Cape Sounion
• Taking a boat trip to the nearby islands of Aegina, Hydra, or Poros

10. Is it necessary to tip in Athens?

Tipping in Athens is not mandatory, but it is customary to leave a small amount for good service. A tip of 10% is usually sufficient in restaurants, cafes, and bars. Taxi drivers do not expect to be tipped, but rounding up to the nearest euro is appreciated.

How to Spend Your Time as a Tourist in Athens

Athens is a city full of history, culture, and wonderful experiences. It can be overwhelming to decide how to spend your time as a tourist in Athens, but with the right planning, you can make the most of your trip while creating unforgettable memories.

1. Visit the Acropolis and Parthenon

The Acropolis is the most visited site in Athens and is a world-renowned symbol of Greece. It is a rocky hill overlooking the city and is home to several ancient buildings, with the most famous being the Parthenon. The Parthenon was built in honor of the goddess Athena and is considered one of the most impressive buildings in the world. The temple is a marvel of ancient engineering and is a must-visit attraction in Athens.

2. Explore the Ancient Agora

The Ancient Agora was the center of social and political life in ancient Athens. Here, you can explore the remains of ancient temples, markets, and government buildings. It’s also where democracy was born, and you can see the remains of the world’s first democratic council, the Bouleuterion. Be sure to wear comfortable walking shoes and take advantage of audio-guides or tours to make the most of your visit.

3. Stroll Around Plaka

Plaka is Athens’ oldest neighborhood and is known for its charming, narrow streets lined with neoclassical buildings adorned with bougainvillea flowers, and it’s easy to spend a day slowly wandering around. You can find plenty of cafes, restaurants, and shops in this area, and it’s a great place to unwind and soak up the local culture.

4. Visit the National Archaeological Museum

This museum contains an impressive collection of Greek artifacts and antiquities, including statues, pottery, and jewelry from ancient times. Some of the most notable items include the Mask of Agamemnon, which was discovered in a tomb in Mycenae, and the Delphi Charioteer. The museum is quite large, spanning two floors, so plan to spend at least a few hours here.

5. Go on a Food Tour

Athens is known for its delicious food and vibrant culinary scene, and what better way to experience it than with a food tour? A food tour will take you around the city’s local food markets and vendors, where you’ll have the chance to try traditional Greek dishes like souvlaki, moussaka, and baklava. You’ll also learn about the history and culture behind the food, and discover some hidden gems that you may not have found on your own.

6. Take a Day Trip to Cape Sounion

Cape Sounion is a popular day trip from Athens and is home to the Temple of Poseidon, a stunning ancient temple perched on a cliff overlooking the Aegean Sea. Not only is the temple a sight to behold, but the surrounding area is also beautiful, with rugged coastline and sandy beaches. Visiting Cape Sounion is an ideal way to escape the bustle of the city and enjoy a day in the great outdoors.

7. Explore the City’s Museums

Apart from the National Archaeological Museum, Athens is home to several other world-class museums, each focusing on different aspects of Greek history and culture. You can visit the Museum of Cycladic Art, which features ancient Cycladic antiquities, or the Benaki Museum, which showcases Greek art and culture from prehistoric times to modern day. Plan your museum visits according to your interests, and be sure to check opening hours and ticket prices in advance.

8. Attend a Traditional Greek Music Show

When in Athens, don’t forget to take in some traditional Greek music and dancing. You can find nightly performances in various venues across the city. Experience the Greek music’s rhythms and melodies, accompanied by the sounds of Laouto, the bouzouki, and other traditional instruments, and enjoy the performance with traditional dance and food.

Book Your Tour Now

As a tourist in Athens, you always have plenty of things to do and see. By planning well, you can experience the city’s rich cultural heritage and history, sample its famous cuisine, and take part in its vibrant arts and entertainment scene. Consider the suggestions mentioned above to make the most of your trip to Athens, and don’t forget to immerse yourself in the local customs and traditions for a truly authentic experience.