by Katerina Kamposou
Plaka, Thissio, Dionysiou Areopagitou. These storied neighborhoods in Athens draw throngs of tourists, all eagerly waiting for Tuk Tuks, buggies, fat bikes and scooters. One group after another is whisked away, following a tight schedule. Along the route, tour escorts share little-known city secrets, offer generous travel tips for enjoying Athens, and hand out bottles of water – a must under the blazing Athenian sun. These quirky vehicles weave through the narrow lanes, blending seamlessly into the vibrant mosaic of the historic center.
Riding a Trikke
A group trikke tour through the historic center typically lasts around an hour and a half. The adventure begins at 18 Hatzichristou Street, near the Acropolis, and winds past iconic landmarks like the Temple of Olympian Zeus, Zappeion Hall, the Panathenaic Stadium (Kallimarmaro), the National Garden, the Presidential Mansion, and the Hellenic Parliament, just in time to witness the ceremonial changing of the Guard, before looping back via Monastiraki.
Tuk Tuk
A touch of Asia reaches Monastiraki with the arrival of modern, eco-friendly Tuk Tuks. Unlike Bangkok’s flashy models, these Athenian vehicles are quiet, seat 6 passengers and travel up to 40 km/h. Three tour options are available: A 90-minute route covering the Parliament, Numismatic Museum, Academy of Athens, Lycabettus Hill (30-minute stop), Benaki Museum and Syntagma Square. A two-hour route adding the Panathenaic Stadium, Temple of Zeus, Acropolis and Thissio. A three-hour route that also includes Monastiraki and Plaka. Itineraries can be tailored –such as pickups from Piraeus or evening rides–, night tours being especially popular.
Vintage Tours on Motorcycles with Sidecars
Beyond the historic center, guided tours along the Athenian Riviera have also gained popularity. Quite popular are rides on vintage motorcycles with sidecars, offering a retro-style tour of Athens from a fresh perspective. The two-hour ride to Lake Vouliagmeni starts with a coffee by the lake and continues with a tour of the area’s unique geological features and the beaches. The city center tour includes routes and special shortcuts that avoid traffic, making the ride more pleasant. These sidecar motorcycles cruise through the narrow alleys of Psyrri, Plaka, around the Acropolis and the city’s main streets – Stadiou, Amalias and around Omonia Square. Depending on the passenger’s preference, the ride can last from one to four hours.
Onboard the Iconic Red Bus Seeing Athens in style
Looking for a fun, effortless way to take in everything Athens has to offer? Jump on one of the signature red open-top buses from City Sightseeing, the global leader in hop-on, hop-off city tours. Whether you're cruising through ancient streets or along the scenic coastline, this ride gives you a front-row seat to the city's layered history, with fascinating audio commentary available in 12 languages. Three routes –Athens, Piraeus and the Beach-Riviera– cover 36 key stops, from legendary landmarks to lively neighborhoods, beaches, museums, galleries and shopping hotspots. Ride up top for panoramic views and let the stories of ancient gods, philosophers and local legends unfold as the city passes by. Your 24-hour ticket (which actually spans two calendar days) gives you the freedom to explore at your own pace. Hop off whenever something catches your eye, and hop back on when you’re ready – no stress, no rush. With reliable schedules and stops at all the right places, this is sightseeing made simple, with just the right amount of sunshine and breeze. Athens is ready for you. Let City Sightseeing-Athens be your guide!
