Athens in a Day Tour with Acropolis Early Entrance and Lunch
Enjoy morning guided access to Parthenon Hill and its museum, paired with a delightful Greek meal
Athens is brimming with awe-inspiring ancient marvels, but did you know experiencing the best of them in one day takes careful planning and an early start? That’s why we’ve crafted this immersive eight-hour tour, featuring early access to the Acropolis and guided tours through the Acropolis Museum, Plaka, and Monastiraki Square. In addition, a delicious lunch of traditional Greek dishes and an expert guide leading the way ensure you uncover the secrets of Athens' past and present.
- Meet your guide near Acropolis
- Acropolis
- Parthenon
- The Erectheum
- Temple of Athena Nike
- Acropolis Museum
- Traditional Greek lunch
- Plaka neighborhood
- Monastiraki neighborhood
- End at Monastiraki Square
Discover the renowned sites of Athens through the eyes of an expert historian on this 8-hour walking tour. Starting at 8:30 am near the Acropolis, enjoy a crowd-free tour of the magnificent Parthenon, the Erechtheum, and the Temple of Athena Nike; then, head inside the Acropolis Museum to come face-to-face with relics that reveal the storied Athenian life and its artistry.
Next, break for a mouth-watering feast of Greek specialties, including stuffed eggplant rolls, moussaka or souvlaki, and a refreshing yogurt mousse before continuing to the Plaka neighborhood. Here, a guided tour featuring the Tower of the Winds and the Roman Agora awaits, followed by a stroll to the lively Monastiraki Square, where your adventure is topped off with an exploration of its colorful flea market.
Athens Highlights Walking Tour with Lunch
Your 7-hour tour includes:
Entry ticket for Acropolis and Acropolis Museum
Guided tour of the Acropolis
Guided tour of the Acropolis Museum
Traditional Greek lunch
Walking tour of Plaka and Monastiraki Square
Early start for crowd-free experience
Expert, English-speaking guide
Small group for a personalized experience
Welcome to the Acropolis!
Before eager visitors fill up the streets of Athens, meet your guide and fellow group members at 8:30 am near the Acropolis. This early start allows you to see a side of the city most tourists miss out on, one of the delightful stillness that makes its Roman ruins appear even more magnificent. And soon, you’ll be making your way up to its most renowned—the Parthenon.
This architectural masterpiece, dedicated to Athena, the goddess of wisdom and warfare, shows the height of ancient Athens's greatness. As you stand under its mighty columns, your guide will reveal fascinating stories that tell of many uses through history and how, even against odds, it has withstood the test of time.
Beyond the Parthenon, you’ll also explore the Temple of Athena Nike, perched on the edge of the Acropolis, and the gateway of the Propylaea. Then, continue to the Porch of the Caryatids, which is renowned for its statuesque maidens, and in between, be sure to pause to take in the panoramic views of Athens surrounding you.
Acropolis Museum
Next on your itinerary is a two-hour tour of the Acropolis Museum, which was built to house every artifact found on the surrounding slopes and provides a comprehensive overview of Athenian life from the Greek Bronze Age to Roman and Byzantine Greece. Inside, you'll see sculptures from the Parthenon, the Erechtheion, and the Temple of Athena Nike. In addition, the museum's see-through floors offer a unique view of the excavations below, while its galleries are arranged to take you on a journey through Athens' history. Take your time wandering around, and tune into your guide sharing insightful stories that further bring ancient Athens to life.
Greek Lunch
By now, your stomach will surely be grumbling, and coincidently, it's time for a traditional Greek lunch! Follow your guide to a local restaurant, where you'll be treated to a feast of Greek specialties. While the menu changes with the seasons, you can look forward to a two-course meal including a starter (Greek salad and pan fried mushrooms or eggplant rolls stuffed with Greek cheese), a main dish (Chicken or pork souvlaki, traditional moussaka or zucchini in egg lemon sauce with gemista, depending on the season), and a delightful dessert, such as a yogurt mousse with cracked biscuits.
Plaka and Monastriraki
Refueled and ready for more, your journey continues to Plaka—Athens' oldest neighborhood. Here, with its cobblestone streets and neoclassical architecture, you'll feel like you've stepped straight back in time. Pause to learn about the sundials decorating the Tower of Winds, the ruins of the Roman Agora, and the striking Cathedral of Athens.
Then, just a short stroll away, you'll find the bustling Monastiraki Square. Check out its bustling flea market, Tzistarakis Mosque, and its many small shops brimming with spices and traditional foods before bidding farewell to your group and guide. You can expect to wrap up the tour around 4:30 pm at Monastiraki Square, leaving plenty of time to refresh and relax before enjoying the rest of your evening in Athens. Thanks for joining!
What you get with this tour
See what people are saying
2 total reviews
Leave a reviewJennifer Bozarth
A fantastic tour
Melody Jean
Anna was great! Such a bonus to have someone who studied archaeology as a tour guide for the Acropolis and Athens. The detail and stories we were told was fantastic and definitely added to the experience. This is a trip and a tour I will remember, and recommend, always.
Frequently Asked Questions
What to bring?
It's always smart to wear comfortable shoes since you'll be on your feet for most of the tour. A good camera and a water bottle are also recommended.
What to bring?
It's always smart to wear comfortable shoes since you'll be on your feet for most of the tour. A good camera and a water bottle are also recommended.
Is this tour run by The Tour Guy?
This tour is operated by one of our trusted and vetted partners in Athens.
What if I have concerns about my mobility on this tour?
If you have any doubts about your mobility, please let us know beforehand. This Athens walking tour includes navigating uneven paths, stairs, and busy sidewalks. We'd also like to recommend the Athens Sightseeing by Golf Cart tour.
What happens if it rains?
We run our Athens walking tour rain or shine. If the weather is extremely bad and we cannot proceed with the tour, we'll let you know as soon as possible.
Is there any chance my tour might be canceled?
On the rare occasions the tour is canceled, we'll inform you as soon as possible and work together on rescheduling or on a refund.
Is there a dress code to join this Athens walking tour?
. While there is no specific dress code, we recommend wearing comfortable, casual, and respectful clothing that you're comfortable walking short distances in. Keep in mind that you’ll be exposed to the elements throughout the tour.
Does the Acropolis in Athens ever experience sudden closures?
During adverse weather events or due to maintenance or safety reasons, the Acropolis may be closed unexpectedly and without much notice. If this occurs, we will let you know as soon as possible.
How much walking is involved in this tour?
This is a walking tour but an easy one, with plenty of stops and a gentle pace. If you’re concerned about the pace, we offer private tours, which ensure more flexibility.
Is lunch included in the price of the tour?
Yes, a delicious Greek lunch is included in the price of this Athens walking tour. While the exact offerings change day by day, depending on what is in season, you can look forward to traditional Greek dishes paired with water and bread.
What if I'm vegetarian?
No problem! A vegetarian option is available, please contact us after booking if this is required for any of your party.
What if I have food allergies, intolerances, or other dietary requirements?
We are happy to offer alternative food options for vegetarians and can tailor the tour to accommodate gluten-free or other dietary requirements. Please contact us in advance so we can do our best to accommodate your needs.
Are drinks included in the price of the tour?
Besides water, drinks are not included in the price of the tour. However, during lunch, you’re welcome to purchase wine, beer, or soft drinks to enjoy.
Can I bring my kids, and do I have to pay for them?
Yes, everyone is welcome on our Athens walking tour. We offer a reduced rate for children and teens under the age of 18, while infants under two are free.
Where does this tour end?
This tour ends at Monastiraki Square. Here, our guides can help arrange a taxi back to your hotel or point you in the direction of a restaurant or bar to grab a celebratory end-of-adventure drink or snack.
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