Athens Private Full Day Tour
Description
Discover Athens in an 8-hour private experience designed to showcase the birthplace of Western Civilization in comfort and style with a professional English-speaking driver. Begin at the iconic Acropolis of Athens, followed by the legendary Panathenaic Stadium and a drive past the Temple of Olympian Zeus. Continue to Syntagma Square to witness the Changing of the Guard in front of the Hellenic Parliament, then admire the neoclassical elegance of the Academy of Athens. Ascend Mount Lycabettus for panoramic city views before enjoying a traditional lunch in the historic neighborhood of Plaka. After lunch, continue to the Acropolis Museum, where the masterpieces of ancient Athens are brought to life. Why HP Tours – Hellenic Private Tours? Flexible tailor-made itineraries, certified English-speaking tour drivers, modern Mercedes fleet (fully licensed for tourism), excellent global reviews, dedicated customer support, and optional licensed expert guides upon request.
Tour Options
Itinerary
Greece’s most famous monument that houses the pride and crown jewel of Athens, the Parthenon. Dedicated to the city’s ancient patron, Athena – the Goddess of wisdom, the Parthenon is globally considered an enduring symbol of Democracy, Culture and Civilization. Housed on top and in the surroundings of the sacred rock are some of the most important sites of the capital’s ancient heritage, such as: Propylaea, the entrance to the rock. The Temple of Wingless Victory, which was devoted to Goddess Athena-Nike. Erechtheum, with the temple’s best-known feature being its south porch, whose roof, instead of being supported on columns, rested on the heads of six Korai statues – the famous Caryatides. The Odeon of Herodes Atticus, a 5000-seat stone Roman theatre which was carved into the rock and is still used for music festivals The Theatre of Dionysus where the Athenians listened to the immortal works of Sophocles, Aeschylus, Euripides and Aristophanes.
We continue our tour by passing by the Temple of Olympian Zeus – King of the Greek Pantheon. The now half-ruined temple, which is also known as Olympieion, was at its peak consisted of 104 columns of 17 meters (56 ft) high and 2 m (6 ft 7 in) in diameter!
Following the visit to the temple, we will make a brief stop at the Panathenaic Stadium, also known as Kallimarmaro, a multi-purpose stadium, where the first modern Olympics were held in 1896. Interesting fact! The Panathenaic Stadium, also known as the Kalimarmaro, is the only stadium in the world that was built entirely out of marble.
Our next stop will be at the Greek parliament – a building which was originally built with the purpose of being the palace of Otto, the first King of Greece.
Housed outside of the Parliament building is the Tomb of the Unknown Soldier, guarded by the presidential guard. This light infantry unit, dressed in the traditional Evzone's uniform, conducts a famous changing of the guard ceremony.
We will then drive along Panepistimiou Street which connects Constitution (Syntagma) Square with Concord (Omonia) Square. During this short drive in the heart of the capital, you will come across three beautiful buildings: the Academy, the University and the National Library. Interesting fact! Constructed in the 19th century, these three mansions are commonly referred to as the “neo-classical trilogy” of Athens.
Our driving session continues with a stop at Lycabettus Hill, one of the city’s highest viewpoints, which offers one of the best panoramic views of downtown Athens and its suburbs.
After enjoying the view, you will have lunch at a traditional Greek restaurant, tasting authentic Greek cuisine with its’ unique Mediterranean characteristics. Continuing the exploration of the city, we will head to the oldest and most famous part of the city, the Plaka district. Known for its picturesque streets filled with neoclassical buildings and small shops, Plaka is an area of interest for both tourists and locals alike.
Strolling through the beautiful neighborhood, you will come across both the Roman & the ancient Athenian Agora. The agora was considered to be the heart and soul of Athens during the city’s peak, having the role of a business, political, and legal center. Nowadays, a large open area of ancient ruins and greenery, the Agora attracts more than half a million international visitors annually due to the important monuments that it houses. Two of the most notable highlights of the Agora are: I. The Temple of Hephaestus, a 5th century BCE temple dedicated to Hephaestus – the God of metal working, craftsmanship, and fire – which remains largely intact. & II. The Stoa of Attalos, a stoa (covered walkway) built by and named after King Attalos II of Pergamon.
The new Acropolis Museum opened in 2009 and is located under the south slope of the Acropolis. The museum contains mostly pediment sculptures, reliefs, and statues found on the sacred rock, which formed its decoration. Displaying over 4,000 exhibits, the Acropolis Museum is considered one of the best and most significant museums in the world.
Highlights
What's included
Pickup Locations & Times
Airport Pickup:Your driver will meet you upon your arrival at the Athens International Airport - “Eleftherios Venizelos”, at the customs exit, holding an H.P. Tours sign with your name on. Port pickup: Your driver will meet you at the Piraeus Port cruise ship terminal, holding an H.P. Tours sign with your name on. Notice that Piraeus port has three terminals, Terminal A, B and C. Depending on the terminal that your ship will dock at, your driver will be waiting for you at the corresponding exit. (e.g. If your ship docks at Terminal A, your driver will meet you at the Terminal A exit etc.) In case your ship docks at Terminal B or Terminal C and the corresponding exit gate is closed, you will need to take the shuttle bus to come to Terminal A (3 MIN RIDE), where your driver will be waiting for you.
Traveller Ratings
Important Information
- Wheelchair accessible
- Specialized infant seats are available
- Infants and small children can ride in a pram or stroller
- Public transportation options are available nearby
- Transportation options are wheelchair accessible
- Suitable for all physical fitness levels
- This is a fully private tour, with no other guests joining your group.
- Infant car seats are available upon request
- Your professional English-speaking tour driver will enrich your journey with curated insights into the monuments you visit, along with fascinating stories from both ancient and modern Greek history. Please note that, in accordance with local regulations, tour drivers are not permitted to accompany guests inside archaeological sites or museums. For a more in-depth experience, a licensed professional guide can be arranged to accompany you inside the sites upon request, at an additional cost.
Reviews(241)
Excellent communication pre arrival. Tour bus was very comfortable. Would definitely recommend to friends visiting Athens
Dear Sir/Madam, We would like to extend our heartfelt thanks once again for choosing H.P. Tours and for sharing such a wonderful review. Your feedback is truly invaluable to us, and we deeply appreciate your kind words. It was our pleasure to serve you, and we’re delighted to hear that you had a positive experience. We look forward to the opportunity of welcoming you back and providing our services again in the future. Kind regards, Frank Kotsiopoulos Managing Director H.P. Tours
Our guide Helen was knowledgeable, professional and kind and she worked well with our driver Ocean to show us highlights in Athens such as the Acropolis, Acropolis Museum, Parliament changing of the guards, Olympic Stadium, Athens highest point and richest neighborhood, the Agora and a wonderful local restaurant for lunch. It was a perfect day and they made the experience easy and organized.
Dear Elizabeth, We are truly thrilled to read your wonderful review. Thank you for your kind words and for taking the time to share your experience with us. It was our pleasure to be part of your journey and to help create a memorable experience. We look forward to the opportunity to welcome you back and provide our services again in the future. Best regards, Frank Kotsiopoulos Managing Director H.P. Tours
We had a fantastic tour through the Museum and historic sights! Lastly the ladies got in some downtown shopping! Our driver was great and our guide very knowledgeable!
Dear Steve, Thank you so much for your wonderful review. We’re truly delighted to hear that you had such a fantastic time with us! Your satisfaction is our highest priority, and we’re pleased to know we could contribute to a memorable experience. We look forward to the opportunity of welcoming you back and providing our services again in the future. Until then, please accept our warmest regards and best wishes. Sincerely, Frank Kotsiopoulos Managing Director H.P. Tours
Thanks Frank (The owner), George and Jimmy (his Greek name is Dimitri by the way - our Driver & Guide) for arranging the best Athens tour! We booked a 2day tour (Athens city tour and outside Athens Tour) with them. Check them out in TripAdvisor! They have excellent 5/5 stars review.. if you don't book with them, you are missing out for sure! Also, forgot to mention, our photographer Vicky & her team from Santorini for recommending H.P. tours! She is excellent too for Santorini day tours and especially the flying dress shots.. check them out in TripAdvisor as well for their 5/5 stars reviews.. Will definitely recommend both them to our friends and colleagues when they travel to either Santorini and Athens :) If I could give them more, it will be 10/5 stars!
Dear Kiat, Thank you once again for choosing H.P. Tours and for sharing such a wonderful review. Your feedback means a great deal to us, and we truly appreciate you taking the time to share your experience. We’re honored to have been a part of your journey and look forward to the opportunity to welcome you back and serve you again in the future. Kind regards, Frank Kotsiopoulos Managing Director H.P. Tours
Wow. Trip was amazing and Frank K. was unbelievable - scheduling, coordination, information, and even his driving through that traffic were all top-notch. His lunch selection was perfect. We saw it all at our own pace. Highly recommend both the trip and Frank K. as a driver.
Dear Frank, Thank you so much for your wonderful review. We’re truly delighted to hear that you had such a fantastic time with us! Your satisfaction is our highest priority, and we’re pleased to know we could contribute to a memorable experience. We look forward to the opportunity of welcoming you back and providing our services again in the future. Until then, please accept our warmest regards and best wishes. Sincerely, Frank Kotsiopoulos Managing Director H.P. Tours
Frank was awesome! We really enjoyed our private tour in Athens with him. Since we were coming off a cruise ship, our time was limited, and Frank helped us make the most of it. By the end of the tour, it felt like Frank was part of our group. He was very personable, easy to talk to, and had a wealth of knowledge about the history of Greece and Athens. If I ever travel to Greece again, he’ll be the guide I hire!
Dear Sir/Madam, Thank you for your kind words and for sharing your experience with fellow travelers. Your feedback means a great deal to us and motivates our entire team. We truly appreciate your trust and support. It’s our goal to exceed expectations, and we’re delighted to have made your journey memorable. We look forward to welcoming you back and creating more wonderful experiences together. Warm regards, Frank Kotsiopoulos Managing Director H.P. Tours
Frank was truly one of the highlights of our trip to Greece! His knowledge of Greek history, culture, and local traditions was absolutely incredible, but what made the experience even more special was his personality. Frank was warm, engaging, funny, and genuinely passionate about what he does. He made every stop feel meaningful and brought the history of Greece to life in a way that was both educational and entertaining. From navigating Athens to sharing hidden gems and local recommendations, Frank went above and beyond to make sure everyone had an unforgettable experience. What stood out most was how attentive and personable he was. He made the tour feel comfortable, seamless, and personal rather than rushed or generic. You can tell he truly cares about his guests and takes pride in showing people the beauty of Greece. If you are lucky enough to have Frank as your tour guide, you are in for an amazing experience. Highly recommend — 5 stars all the way!
Dear Sir/Madam, We would like to extend our heartfelt thanks once again for choosing H.P. Tours and for sharing such a wonderful review. Your feedback is truly invaluable to us, and we deeply appreciate your kind words. It was our pleasure to serve you, and we’re delighted to hear that you had a positive experience. We look forward to the opportunity of welcoming you back and providing our services again in the future. Kind regards, Frank Kotsiopoulos Managing Director H.P. Tours
Jimmy is the best tour guide we have had on our trip so far. It was a delight to be taken everywhere and know our bags were safe in the car. Great communication as well.
Dear Josh, Thank you for your kind words. We’re delighted to hear that we were able to exceed your expectations. Providing our guests with a memorable experience is our top priority, and we’re pleased to know we succeeded in doing so during your time with us. We look forward to the opportunity of welcoming you back and offering our services again in the future. Kind regards, Frank Kotsiopoulos Managing Director H.P. Tours
An excellent day today in Athens with our driver Kyriakos and guide Helen. They were friendly, knowledgeable and attentive. Learned a lot ... great time and fun. Many thanks.
Dear William, Thank you for your wonderful review and for choosing H.P. Tours for your recent journey. Your satisfaction is our top priority, and we're delighted to hear that you had such a positive experience with us. We genuinely appreciate your trust and support. It would be our pleasure to welcome you again in the future for another memorable adventure. Warm regards, Frank Kotsiopoulos Managing Director H.P. Tours
Our 2 days in and around Athens were well spent. They took care of most of the admission tickets, maintained a flexible schedule and gave us ample time to see the places we wanted. We had a 20+ seater van and the ride was super-comfortable.
Dear Sir/Madam, We are truly thrilled to read your wonderful review. Thank you for your kind words and for taking the time to share your experience with us. It was our pleasure to be part of your journey and to help create a memorable experience. We look forward to the opportunity to welcome you back and provide our services again in the future. Best regards, Frank Kotsiopoulos Managing Director H.P. Tours
