Tours/Athens/"Athens in a Glimpse with Cruise Port Pickup & Drop-Off"
Viator · Private tour

"Athens in a Glimpse with Cruise Port Pickup & Drop-Off"

5.0(19)Athens1 hour
VIATOR5.0(9)TRIPADVISOR5.0(10)

Description

"A short private tour with a well-informed driver in Athens into the short break from your cruise" You can enjoy a quick private tour of Athens with a knowledgeable driver who will share the history of the city with you. This experience can easily fit into the short break you have from your cruise: the driver will pick you up directly from the Port of Piraeus and, after your tour, return you back to your cruise ship in time for your departure. This is a wonderful opportunity to discover Greece’s capital— the birthplace of democracy and one of the world’s most historic travel destinations. Within just a few hours, you will be able to see many of the city’s highlights and enjoy the warm hospitality Athens is known for. If you would like to add a licensed tour guide, we can arrange that for you as well, depending on availability—just let us know and we will organize everything for you.

Tour Options

"By Sedan up to 3pax"
  • Private tour in 4 hours Luxurius Mercedes Benz Sedan Skip line Tickets: We will purchase the tickets and you can pay the driver directly in cash. (by card-additional charge to cover the bank fees Pickup included
"By MiniBus up to 12pax"
  • Private tour in 4hours Luxurius Mercendes Benz Skip line Tickets: We will purchase the tickets and you can pay the driver directly in cash. (by card-additional charge to cover the bank fees Pickup included
"By MiniVan up to 8pax"
  • Private tour in 4hours Luxurius Mercendes Benz Skip line Tickets: We will purchase the tickets and you can pay the driver directly in cash. (by card-additional charge to cover the bank fees Pickup included

Itinerary

Pass by

Pick up point - Piraeus port

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The Parthenon is a temple on the Athenian Acropolis, Greece, dedicated to the Greek goddess Athena, whom the people of Athens considered their patron. Its construction began in 447 BC and was completed in 438 BC, although decorations of the Parthenon continued until 432 BC. It is the most important surviving building of Classical Greece, generally considered to be the culmination of the development of the Doric order. Its decorative sculptures are considered some of the high points of Greek art.

Admission not included75 min

The Acropolis of Athens is a rocky hill 156 meters above sea level and approximately 70 meters above the level of the city of Athens. The Parthenon is a temple built in honor of the goddess Athena, patroness of the city of Athens. Τhe architects who worked were Iktinos, Kallikratis, and possibly Phidias (5th century BC). Finally, we will see the Erechtheion with the famous Karyatidis and the Propylaea.

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The Temple of Athena Nike is a temple on the Acropolis of Athens, dedicated to the goddesses Athena and Nike.

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The Theatre of Dionysus is an ancient Greek theatre in Athens. It is built on the south slope of the Acropolis hill, originally part of the sanctuary of Dionysus Eleuthereus.

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The Odeon of Herodes Atticus also called Herodion is a stone Roman theatre structure located on the southwest slope of the Acropolis.

Admission not included15 min

Like the Acropolis, the temple of Olympian Zeus has been a distinctive Athenian landmark since time immemorial. The Pillars of Olympian Zeus, the outdoor ancient temple of Athena. The Temple of Olympian Zeus is a half-complete temple dedicated to Zeus, chief of Olympian Gods. It’s impressive history and destruction make the site interesting to study and its size a popular tourist attraction. It’s surrounded by other monuments, such as the Kallimarmaro stadium, the Hadrian’s Arch, and Zappeion Megaron. It’s within walking distance from the Athens center, 500 m east of the Acropolis and south from the Syntagma Square.

Admission not included10 min

Like the Acropolis, the temple of Olympian Zeus has been a distinctive Athenian landmark since time immemorial. The Pillars of Olympian Zeus, the outdoor ancient temple of Athena. The Temple of Olympian Zeus is a half-complete temple dedicated to Zeus, chief of Olympian Gods. It’s impressive history and destruction make the site interesting to study and its size a popular tourist attraction. It’s surrounded by other monuments, such as the Kallimarmaro stadium, the Hadrian’s Arch, and Zappeion Megaron. It’s within walking distance from the Athens center, 500 m east of the Acropolis and south from the Syntagma Square.

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The Arch of Hadrian, most commonly known in Greek as Hadrian's Gate, is a monumental gateway resembling—in some respects—a Roman triumphal arch. It spanned an ancient road from the center of Athens, Greece, to the complex of structures on the eastern side of the city that included the Temple of Olympian Zeus.

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The Zappeion is a large, palatial building next to the National Gardens of Athens in the heart of Athens, Greece. It is generally used for meetings and ceremonies, both official and private and is one of the city's most renowned modern landmarks.

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The National Garden or Royal Garden is a public park (38 acres) in the center of the Greek capital. It is located directly behind the Greek Parliament building (The Old Palace) and continues to the South to the area where the Zappeion is located, across from the Kalimarmaro. The Garden also encloses some ancient ruins, side are the busts of Ioannis Kapodistrias, the first governor of Greece, and of the Philhellene Jean-Gabriel Eynard, of the celebrated Greek poets Dionysios Solomos, author of the Greek National Hymn, and Aristotelis Valaoritis.

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The Greek Parliament, the old Palace of king Othon which is located in Syntagma Square and the Unknown Soldier Monument which is guarded 24 hours a day by the Presidential Guard

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Syntagma Square is the central square of Athens. The square is named after the Constitution that Otto, the first King of Greece, was obliged to grant after a popular and military uprising on 3 September 1843. It is located in front of the 19th-century Old Royal Palace, housing the Greek Parliament since 1934. Syntagma Square is the most important square of modern Athens from both a historical and social point of view, at the heart of commercial activity and Greek politics.

10 min

We will see the changing of the guard (Euzones) in front of the old palace, which is today Parliament House, above the central square of Athens.

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National Library (Vallianeion) This glorious neoclassical reading room once housed over 2 million books and manuscripts, among them 5.200 manuscripts that include over 300 Greek New Testament manuscripts and hand-written renditions of works by Aristotle, Plato and Homer.

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The Academy of Athens is Greece's national academy, and the highest research establishment in the country. It was established in 1926, with its founding principle traces back to the historical Academy of Plato, and operates under the supervision of the Ministry of Education. The Academy's main building is one of the major landmarks of Athens.

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The National and Kapodistrian University of Athens (NKUA) is an integral part of the modern Greek intellectual tradition, life, and international presence. It successfully combines an old established name and authority with dynamic development and creative participation in modern letters and science. It is the oldest University in the country, founded by the Royal Decree of 22 April 1837 under the name “Othonian University”, as the first king of modern Greece, Otto of Bavaria, was its founder. Initially, it consisted of four Schools (of Theology, Law, Medicine, and Philosophy, the latter still comprising at that time Mathematics and Applied Sciences) with a total of 52 students. Its first seat was a neo-classical house on the north slope of the Akropolis hill, originally the home of the architect Stamatis Kleanthis (today the Museum of the University’s History is housed there).

30 min

Lycabettus is a hill of Athens . It has the small church of Agios Georgios at its top and a cable car also operates . Lykavittos is the second highest point of the Attica basin after Turkovunia and rises to 277 meters above sea level and 227 meters above the city.

60 min

Plaka is the oldest and most charming district in Athens. It lies right below the Acropolis Winding medieval alleyways with romantic narrow steps, neoclassical mansions and houses with red tiles and balconies with colorful flowers characterize the neighborhood The Greek literature often called Plaka the neighborhood of the Gods Typical Greek taverns and street cafés serving ice-cold frappés are also characteristics of the area.

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Lively Monastiraki is known for iconic landmarks including the ruins of Hadrian’s Library, the Ancient Agora and the rebuilt Stoa of Attalos, with a museum exhibiting Athenian artifacts.

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Hadrian's Library was created by Roman Emperor Hadrian in AD 132 on the north side of the Acropolis of Athens

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The agora was a central public space in ancient Greek city-states. It is the best representation of a city-state's response to accommodate the social and political order of the polis. The literal meaning of the word "agora" is "gathering place" or "assembly".

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The Stoa of Attalos was a stoa in the Agora of Athens, Greece. It was built by and named after King Attalos II of Pergamon, who ruled between 159 BC and 138 BC.

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Piraeus port - Drop off

Highlights

Hotel/Airbnb/Port Piraeus Pick up & Drop off (Without extra charge)
Mercedes-Benz vehicles equipped with A/C, Child Seats
English speaking driver with knowledge of the history. Not licensed to accompany you in any site.
Bottled water
WiFi on board
Mobile Chargers
Assistance with purchasing Skip-the-Line tickets (customer covers ticket cost)
Air-conditioned vehicle
Rafina Port/Laurio Port Pick up & Drop Off (Additional charge)
Private Transportation - Tour

What's included

Included
Hotel/Airbnb/Port Piraeus Pick up & Drop off (Without extra charge)
Mercedes-Benz vehicles equipped with A/C, Child Seats
English speaking driver with knowledge of the history. Not licensed to accompany you in any site.
Bottled water
WiFi on board
Mobile Chargers
Assistance with purchasing Skip-the-Line tickets (customer covers ticket cost)
Air-conditioned vehicle
Rafina Port/Laurio Port Pick up & Drop Off (Additional charge)
Private Transportation - Tour
Not included
Licensed Tour guide upon request depending on availability
Airport Pick Up & drop-off (Additional charge).
The tickets for all archeological places and museums.
The guide driver is not a licensed tour guide to accompany you at any site/museum.
Acropolis

Pickup Locations & Times

The driver can pick you up directly from the Port of Piraeus. He will be waiting for you outside your cruise ship, holding a sign with your name. He can meet you at any time you prefer. From there, he will take you to the center of Athens for a 5–6 hour sightseeing tour, and afterward he will bring you back to the Port of Piraeus in time to re-embark on your cruise ship. If, for any reason, you are unable to locate your driver, please contact the emergency number shown on your voucher. Additionally, one day before your tour, we will send you the driver’s full contact details so you can reach them directly if needed.

Traveller Ratings

5.0
19 reviews
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19
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2
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Important Information

  • Specialized infant seats are available
  • Service animals allowed
  • Public transportation options are available nearby
  • Infants and small children can ride in a pram or stroller
  • All areas and surfaces are wheelchair accessible
  • Transportation options are wheelchair accessible
  • Wheelchair accessible
  • Suitable for all physical fitness levels
  • Additional fees if the tour concludes at a location other than the designated meeting point.
  • Flexible Pick-Up Times - Customize pick-up times to suit your schedule.
  • Hourly Extensions - Extend your tour for a fee, adaptable to your needs.
  • Ticket prices for archaeological sites vary depending on the season, either winter or summer
  • The Acropolis is closed on January 1st, March 25th, May 1st, Easter Sunday, and December 25th and 26th.

Reviews(19)

K
Kimberly_M
June 10, 2026
Great option for cruise port

We had a great time on this tour. Nick did an amazing job getting us safely through town. We had 8 in our group and saw everything we wanted to see in Athens.

Operator response

Thank you very much for your kind review! We’re delighted to hear that you had a great time exploring Athens with us. It’s wonderful to know that Nick helped make your experience enjoyable and ensured your group traveled safely and comfortably throughout the day. We’re especially pleased that your group was able to see everything you wanted to see in Athens. Thank you for choosing us, and we hope to welcome all eight of you back again in the future! 😊

D
Dreamer63763249447
May 19, 2026
Half day tour before flight was worthed going from the cruise ship to Poseidon with coastal view, very nice stops to take photo

We had 2 trips with this company 1st one was just a drop off from hotel to the cruise ship and than we had a 2nd a half day tour from the cruise ship to Poseidon with a beautiful seacoast view with nice stops for pics and a drop off to the airpert. We were 2 couples the driver was a very nice person, he came for us with a very comfortable Big Mercedes Van with AC and cold drinks . For sure we will book again

Operator response

Thank you very much for your wonderful review! We’re delighted to hear that you enjoyed both of your experiences with us, from your transfer to the cruise port to your half-day tour to the Temple of Poseidon. It’s great to know that you appreciated the scenic coastal route, the photo stops, and the comfort of the vehicle. We’re especially pleased that our driver helped make your journey enjoyable and relaxing. Thank you for your kind words and for choosing our services during your visit. We truly appreciate your trust and look forward to welcoming you back for another memorable experience in Greece in the future! 😊

C
Christine_B
April 21, 2026
Absolutely Wonderful

INCREDIBLE! Nikos arrived early to pick us up at the cruise port and from there it only got better. He was incredibly knowledgeable about the history of Athens and the tour included everything - and more - that we had anticipated, including an up-close view of the changing of the guard at the Parliament bldg. The van was very comfortable, and the historical information Nikos provided was all encompassing. We had adequate time to explore at almost every stop, and even had time for lunch at Theta, a delightful restaurant with a view of the Acropolis. Tickets for the Parthenon were also complimentary at the last minute, and the company made an asserted effort to get them to us just prior to the visit. It was an awesome day. We were treated as welcomed guests from the moment I booked this tour on Viator. Marina assisted with all aspects of our visit including a very early morning trip to the airport the following day. (Thanks, Nikos) She made travel/tour arrangements and followed up so that I was never once worried that we'd be stranded anywhere. It was so refreshing to be with people who truly seem to love what they do. I could not be any more pleased with the experience. Thank you1

Operator response

Thank you so much for your incredible and detailed review! We’re absolutely delighted to hear that you had such a memorable experience with Nikos and our team. It’s wonderful that everything—from the tour itself to the comfort, organization, and support from Marina—met your expectations. Your kind words truly mean a lot to us, and we’re especially happy that you felt well taken care of throughout your visit. We hope to have the pleasure of welcoming you again on your next trip to Athens!

K
Kathleen_s
July 1, 2025
Very nice driver and...

Very nice driver and vehicle. It was efficient way to see Athens in short time, while keeping cool in the extreme heat. Driver was kind with children.

Operator response

Hello Mrs Kathleen, Thank you so much for taking the time to write a review on TripAdvisor — we truly appreciate it! We’re very happy to hear that our driver did everything possible to ensure the children were comfortable, especially on such an exceptionally hot day in Athens. It was a pleasure having you with us, and we hope to welcome you again in the future! Many thanks, Marina

S
swastikkumarm
June 9, 2025
Nice experience in Athens tour

My wife and I had an amazing experience. Especially, the way Andreas helped us with the rich history and culture of each and every corner of Athens.

Operator response

Thank you so much for your wonderful review! We’re truly happy to hear that you and your wife had such an amazing experience exploring Athens, and that Andreas helped bring the city’s rich history and culture to life for you. It means a lot to us to know that our efforts made your visit memorable. We’d love to welcome you back to Greece again in the future! Warmest regards, Marina

H
hyonchi
March 29, 2025
Recommend to all the tourists who wants to tour the best of Athens in just 4 hours. Thank you Andreas!!!

We had such a great experience and felt that we saw everything entire Athens in 4 hours he went beyond and above and gave us extra time for lunch we saw all the major highlights in such a short period of time didn’t feel rushed and felt very treated and we had such a pleasant experience all the way to the airport thank you for an amazing time in Athens! Our tour person Andreas was amazing kind person. Thank you for a unforgettable memorable experience

Operator response

Hello from Athens 😄 Thank you so much for choosing us for your tour in Athens. We are truly delighted to hear that you enjoyed all those hours spent with our driver, Andreas, and that you felt so comfortable and relaxed throughout the journey, all the way to your return to the airport. It was a pleasure serving you, and we would be more than happy to welcome you again whenever you visit Athens in the future. Many thanks, Konstantinos

J
Joanna_H
October 2, 2024
First class with Andreas

Our group of four thoroughly enjoyed our private tour with driver Andreas during our recent stay in Athens. He was descriptive in his explanations and knew how to minimize the lines/crowds. And he went above & beyond when one in our party fractured his ankle at the top of the Acropolis! First class service.

Operator response

Hello from Greece Athens Taxi!!!!1 Thank you very much for your review...We appreciate it!!!! We are very happy that you enjoyed our tour in Athens!!!!! We look forward to welcoming you again to Athens and offer you our services !!! Best regards, Marina Apostolou

B
bhawinp2024
July 26, 2024
Athens in 4 hour!

We highly recommend this tour, especially our driver, Andreas. He contacted us in advance to suggest a different time to avoid the extreme heat. We really appreciated his knowledge of the history and culture of Athens. His professionalism and overall customer experience were excellent. Thank you, Andreas!

1 people found this helpful
Operator response

Thank you very much for your review!!!! We are very glad that you enjoyed your tour of Athens under these conditions due to the high temperatures that prevailed. We hope we did our best and that you filled with nice memories!!!! We hope to see you again in Athens!!!! Βest regards, Marina Apostolou

J
Joanne_P
July 7, 2024
Terrific tour with a great tour guide.

Andreas was very accommodating to our needs. He had so much knowledge for every site he took us too. He was personable and warm and so easy to be with . We enjoyed our tour.

Operator response

Thank you very much for your review to Viator...We appreciate it!!!! We are very happy that you enjoyed our servises and your tour in Athens!!!!! This feedback helps us improve our ability to provide you with the best service possible. We look forward to welcoming you again to Athens and offer you our services !!! Best regards, Marina Apostolou

9
9shyb
May 20, 2024
Andreas is awesome! Great fun!

Was traveling with family and some of us are mobility challenged. We had a great tour and saw all the main sites and areas of Athens. Acropolis, Olympic Stadium, Lycabettus, Temple of Zeus, Plaka, Monasteraki. Andreas is an expert driver and we comfortably toured the entire town in one day! For a group this is a no brainer especially on time constraint (our main challenge). There is absolutely no way we could have seen this much on our own. Had a great stay and Andreas is super friendly and knowledgeable.

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