Essential Highlights Tour of the Acropolis and Parthenon
Skip the line and get to know Greece’s most important ruins, including the Temple of Athena Nike
Prefer a shorter tour of the Acropolis that still explores all of the ruins? This Acropolis tour won't disappoint since you'll follow an expert guide through ancient paths, into the Parthenon, around the Temple of Athena Nike, and into the Theater of Dionysus. All that and a bit more in just a couple of hours! Your skip-the-line tickets are included, and your archaeologist guide knows how to entertain you with stories and facts of these historic ruins that you would miss on your own.
- Meet your guide near the Acropoli metro station
- Enter the Acropolis
- The Parthenon
- Temple of Athena Nike
- Theater of Dionysus
- Odeon of Herodes Atticus
- End inside the Acropolis
After meeting your friendly guide at a convenient location near the Acropolis, it's time for you and your group of no more than 16 people to make your way up Athens' most famous hill. Along the way, you'll listen to your guide begin to craft the story of ancient Greece as you step where legends once walked. Wandering among the columns of the Parthenon and Temple of Athena Nike just might bring chills as you consider how important and historic these monuments are.
Acropolis Tour Description
Your 2-hour tour includes:
Skip-the-line entry and guided tour of Acropolis
Tour of Parthenon and Temple of Athena Nike
Other ruins and monuments
A fun, archaeologist guide
Maximum group size of 16
Explore the Acropolis
Your journey begins at the entrance of the Acropolis where you will pass through the Propylaea, the imposing gateway that’s stood since the 5th century B.C. Stepping inside, you will feel the weight of history on your shoulders as your guide explains the significance of this gateway to ancient Greek culture.
The Imposing Parthenon
This is the building you usually think of when talking about the Acropolis. Step inside the columns and listen to its rather remarkable history as a treasury, temple, mosque, church, and even an arsenal! Dedicated to the goddess Athena, the Parthenon is considered one of the greatest achievements of ancient Greek architecture. Marvel about its construction, its role in ancient Greek culture, and the secrets of its stunning beauty as you stand inside.
The Temple of Athena Nike
Perched on a rocky outcropping of the Acropolis, the Temple of Athena Nike awaits you with stories to tell of her own. You’ll be impressed by the intricate carvings and impressive architecture while learning about its history in the ancient Greek world. This temple was a symbol of victory in war and peace, and it nearly didn’t survive on more than one occasion.
Theater of Dionysus and Odeon of Herodes Atticus
The adventure doesn't end there! You'll follow your guide to the ancient Dionysus Theater, one of the world's oldest theaters (6th century B.C!), and imagine the magnificent performances and dramatic spectacles that once took place here. A whopping 17,000 used to sit here, so be sure to take a seat and imagine them sitting next to you. Then, explore the smaller Odeon of Herodes Atticus from Roman times. It’s another amphitheater that is still used for concerts and events even today.
Breathe in the majestic aura of the ruins that you understand so well now before you head off to explore more of Athens. Be sure to ask your guide for a lunch or dinner recommendation!
What you get with this tour
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See what people are saying
28 total reviews
Leave a reviewWonderful Tour!!!
Dale Busic
A great experience made perfect by our amazing tour guide.
Liesl Funnell
If you're looking for the best tour guide in Athens, look no further than Harry!
Ron Shuman
If you're looking for the best tour guide in Athens, look no further than Harry! From start to finish, his infectious energy and deep expertise in the Acropolis and Parthenon made the tour a truly unforgettable experience. Harry has an incredible knack for breaking down complex historical events into fascinating stories that lay the perfect foundation for exploring these iconic sites. His passion for ancient Greek history is evident in every word, and he kept us engaged and entertained throughout the entire tour. I highly recommend Harry and would give him the highest rating possible—this tour was a highlight of my trip!
Frequently Asked Questions
What to bring?
This is a 2-hour walking tour, so make sure you're wearing comfortable shoes and bring some water, sunscreen in summer months, and a camera.
What to bring?
This is a 2-hour walking tour, so make sure you're wearing comfortable shoes and bring some water, sunscreen in summer months, and a camera.
How much walking is involved in this tour?
Quite a lot. There will be opportunities to take a break occasionally, but you'll be on your feet and moving around for most of the 2 hours.
Will I skip the line on this tour?
Yes, your guide will lead you into the Acropolis without the wait.
Is this tour run by The Tour Guy?
No, this tour is operated by one of our vetted partners in Athens.
Does this tour include the Acropolis Museum?
No, this is a shorter tour that only goes to the ruins of the Acropolis. If you would like to also tour the museum, check out our other Acropolis Tour.