Join this walking tour to explore the UNESCO-listed Acropolis of Athens. To avoid the crowds, meet your Spanish-speaking guide early in the morning and start your tour of the Acropolis before the heat of the day sets in. Admire the Theatre of Dionysus on the south slope of the Acropolis as you make your way up the hill to view the ancient structures located there. Marvel at the Parthenon, the Erechtheion, the Propylaea, and the Temple of Athena Nike, as your guide shares the fascinating history of this ancient site. Next, head downhill and admire views of the Ancient Agora and the National Observatory as you walk. Explore the cobblestone streets of Plaka and discover secrets unknown even to the locals. Enjoy the tranquility of this village within a city as you explore the many narrow passages and discover hidden gems. See the Bathhouse of the Winds, the Roman Forum, the Fethiye Mosque Museum, and Hadrian's Library as you head towards Monastiraki Square where your tour comes to an end.
The meeting point is located next to the Royal Olympic hotel in Athens.
Meet your guide at Key Tours office, and reach the south slope of the Acropolis, where you will admire the Dionysus Sanctuary and Dionysus Theater.
Walk up the hill leading to the Acropolis significant site and have your camera ready for snapping photos of the historical monuments of Acropolis.
Then, your guide will show you the temple of Athena Nike, a beautifully proportioned small Ionic temple that once served as a defensive position. You will learn about the temple’s purpose and its historical context. Your guide will also give you insights into the artistic style: how the slender Ionic columns and elegant proportions differ from the more massive Doric style seen in the Parthenon as well as the meaning behind the "Nike Adjusting her Sandal" — representing victory not through overwhelming force but through beauty, grace, and divine support.
Before reaching the sacred heart of the Acropolis, you will pass through the monumental gateway known as the Propylaia. You guide will share amazing information about the function of the Propylaia as a checkpoint and a ceremonial threshold, controlling the flow of pilgrims during major festivals like the Panathenaia. In addition, you will learn about the political and religious symbolism: why the Athenians wanted visitors to be awed even before stepping fully into the sacred precinct.
As you approach the Erechtheion, you’ll admire this elegant, unusually shaped temple was built between 421 and 406 BC and is famous for its distinctive architecture and deep connection to Athens’ most ancient myths. with your expert guide, you will learn about the legendary contest between Athena and Poseidon, the religious significance of the Erechtheion as a center of ancient worship for multiple deities and mythical heroes as well as stories behind the Caryatids — who they were, why they were used instead of simple columns, and the tale of how one was taken to London by Lord Elgin.
Then, you will marvel at the Parthenon, which is one of the most iconic monuments of Western civilization. You will learn about the vision behind the Parthenon: how Pericles, the Athenian leader, commissioned it as a symbol of the city’s dominance and cultural supremacy. The role of Phidias, the master sculptor, in creating not just the statue of Athena but also overseeing the entire artistic program. Along with your licensed guide, you will deep into the mythology and history embedded in the sculptural scenes — celebrating reason over chaos, civilization over barbarism, ideals that Athenians saw in themselves.
Having explored the Acropolis site and going downhill, you will admire significant sights of the capital of Greece, including the Ancient Agora and the National Observatory of Athens.
Then, you will enter and walk through the unique district of the city, Plaka. For a while, forget the city sounds. Go around Anafiotika, the topmost neighborhood of Plaka and discover with your guide its tranquil, picturesque, and mystic hidden corners. Stroll around the innumerable little alleys and admire the old whitewashed mansions with the carved wooden or imposing iron doors and the colorful painted shutter. Find hidden gems of unspoiled beauty and magnificent views and learn secrets unknown even to many Athenians.
After a while, you will arrive at the Bathhouse of the Winds, the only public bath of Athens surviving at the present days. It dates from the first period of Turkish rule (1453 – 1669) and stands near the Roman forum and the Tower of the Winds.
Passing by the Roman Forum, the Fethiye Mosque Museum and the Hadrian's Library, you will end up at Monastiraki Square, perhaps the oldest surviving square of the city. After the end of the tour, you can visit the flea market, one of the best places to buy just about anything or continue strolling and enjoy your lunch or your coffee at one of the little, picturesque shops, creating memories of a lifetime.
For a full refund, cancel at least 24 hours before the scheduled departure time.
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You can cancel up to 24 hours in advance of the experience for a full refund.
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