With nearly 3000 years of continuous history, a tour around Athens can be daunting: where does one begin? Well, instead of touring aimlessly around the ancient Greek and Roman ruins, look for a guide. They are the ones who know stories, legends and myths to really bring to life the dozens of temples and sanctuaries you’ll see around the city. There are plenty of guided tours, but some stand out. We toured around by bus, train, and with the funky environmentally friendly Segway. All in the name of research, of course.
Open-top buses
The open-top, double-decker sightseeing bus of Athens. Hop on at Syntagma Square. The bus traces the history and culture of Athens from ancient times to the present day, passing by a plethora of shopping opportunities along the route. Don’t feel intimidated by the choking traffic. It is by far an advantage with this sightseeing bus experience. The more you get stuck in traffic, the more time you spend enjoying the sites. Take all the snapshots you want. However, be sure to come armed with a hat and sun protection.
(+30) 210 9220604
The Red Line - The Athens Tour
Starting Point: Syntagma Square Duration: 90 min, 15 stops (every 30 min)
Tickets: Adults €18/ Children (7-14 years) €8/Free admission for children under 6 years/ Ticket Validity: 24 hours and one day for free Commentary: Pre-recorded English, French, German, Spanish, Italian, Portuguese Russian, Japanese, Chinese, Turkish and Greek
The Blue Line - The Piraeus and Athens Tour
Starting Point: Cruise Ship Terminal (from Piraeus), Acropolis (from Athens)
Duration: 70 min, 12 stops (every 35 min) Tickets: Adults €22/ Children (6-14 years) €9 Commentary: Pre-recorded English, French, German, Spanish, Italian, Portuguese Russian, Japanese, Chinese, Turkish and Greek
Happy Urban Trains
Two trains with no tracks. Kids and senior citizens alike love them. Embark either on the Happy Train or the Sunshine Express. They are toy-like street trains that squeeze their way through the narrow streets of Athens historic centre. They pass by Plaka, the Temple of Zeus, Thissio, Zapion and the Acropolis Museum.
Happy Train
(+30) 210 7255400 Starting Point: Ermou and Areos, Monastiraki Duration: 60 min Tickets: Adults €6/ Children €4/ special offers for groups Commentary: English and Greek
Sunshine Express
(+30) 210 8819252 Starting Point: Vasilissis Amalias (in front of the National Garden) Ticket Validity: 1 and 40 min approximately Tickets: Adults €5 / Children €3
Cool Segway
Ride, slide and get the best of Athens – without breaking a sweat. The only city tour in Athens that doesn’t get caught up in the hectic traffic. Hop on the most innovative personal means of transport to discover the capital’s few but scenic pedestrian walkways. The Segway is a two-wheeled, self-balancing electric vehicle with a top speed of 20,1 km/h, and it’s by far the most relaxed and effortless way to get around. There are five tours available, including one at night. No worries, drinking beer and riding a Segway is permitted.
Eschinou & Frinichou 9, Plaka (+30) 210 3222500
Acropolis Tour
Acropolis Tour
Duration: 90-150 min
Tickets: €59 p.p.
National Garden
Duration: 90-150 min
Tickets: €59 p.p.
Filopapou Hill
Duration: 60 min
Tickets: €30 p.p.
Souvlaki Tour
Duration: 150 min
Tickets: €59 p.p. (including souvlaki lunch)
Athens By Night
Duration: 180-210 min
Tickets: €85 (minimum
booking 4 persons)
Olympic Games Tour
Duration: 90 min
Tickets: €44 p.p.
