Overview
Imagine stepping off your ship and right into the heart of Athens. With easy port pickup and drop-off, our small-group semi-private shore excursion brings you face-to-face with the stories, traditions, and magic that make this city so unforgettable.
Semi-Private Tour ID
- Tour type: Small group semi-private shore excursion, semi-private tour
- Duration: Half day / 5 Hours
- Destinations: Athens
- Region: Attica
- Starting Point: Piraeus Cruise Port, Athens
- Tour Language: English
- Age Range: 1 to 99 years old
- Available: April – October
- Departures: Daily
Highlights of the Best of Athens: A Semi-Private Tour Designed for Small Groups, 5 Hours
- Relax and enjoy a small-group guided tour with easy port pickup and drop-off, so you can focus on soaking in the sights.
- Stand in awe before the Temple of Olympian Zeus, walk through the iconic Arch of Hadrian, and visit the historic Panathenaic Stadium.
- Explore the legendary Acropolis and marvel at the Parthenon — a UNESCO World Heritage Site.
- Wander through the lively markets of Plaka and its charming, winding streets of Plaka.
- And don’t miss the unforgettable moment when the guards change — a true Athens tradition.
Description of the Best of Athens: A Semi-Private Tour Designed for Small Groups, 5 Hours
As your cruise ship arrives, our friendly team will be waiting to greet you right by the ship. From there, you’ll hop onto a modern, air-conditioned Mercedes-Benz vehicle, setting the stage for a comfortable and relaxing journey.
We’ll kick things off with a scenic drive through Piraeus, passing by charming harbors filled with yachts and sailboats — a perfect glimpse into the area’s vibrant maritime life. If traffic allows, we’ll even pause for a quick photo stop to capture the beautiful views.
Next, we’ll head toward some of Athens’ most iconic landmarks. You’ll catch sights like the grand Temple of Olympian Zeus, with its soaring Corinthian columns, and the impressive Arch of Hadrian, built to honor the Roman Emperor. We’ll also stop for a closer look at the Panathenaic Stadium — the birthplace of the modern Olympic Games and a true symbol of ancient Greek athletic pride.
The Acropolis of Athens
Once we arrive in Athens, you’ll have the option to visit the world-famous Acropolis. Your driver/guide will lead you to the entrance, where you’ll be free to explore at your own pace. Take your time admiring the Parthenon — a masterpiece of architecture and a lasting symbol of democracy, the grand Propylaea, the Temple of Athena Nike, the mesmerizing Erechtheion, the graceful Caryatids, and the majestic Herodion theater.
But wait, there’s more — get ready to explore atop the historic Areopagus, or Mars Hill, and the legendary Theater of Dionysus.
Important to note: Visiting the Acropolis involves quite a bit of walking, with uneven paths and steep steps, especially challenging during the warmer months. If you’d prefer a less strenuous option, you can join the guide for a visit to nearby Areopagus Hill instead, where you’ll enjoy stunning panoramic views of the Acropolis and Athens, along with fascinating historical insights. You’ll also see the beautifully preserved Odeon of Herodes Atticus, a remarkable ancient stone theater.
After regrouping, we’ll make our way to Syntagma Square, home to one of Athens’ most beloved traditions, and the Hellenic Parliament (the ex-royal palace).
The changing of the guards and the picturesque Memorials
Do not miss the changing of the guard ceremony in front of the presidential house. It’s a must-see moment filled with history and national pride.
As we continue our tour, you’ll pass elegant neoclassical buildings like the Catholic Cathedral, the University of Athens, the National Library, and the Academy of Athens, adorned with statues of great philosophers. We’ll stop for photos whenever traffic allows, making sure you don’t miss any of the beauty around you.
Discover Plaka Athens: A Travel Guide to the Oldest Neighborhood in Athens
Before heading back to the ship, we’ll visit the charming neighborhood of Plaka — often called the “Old City” of Athens. Nestled at the foot of the Acropolis, Plaka feels like stepping back in time with its winding alleys, colorful architecture, and warm, welcoming vibe. It’s the perfect spot to soak up the heart and soul of Athens.
Explore Plaka, the oldest and most charming neighborhood in Athens, Greece. Discover top attractions, things to do, nearby landmarks, local shops, and travel tips.
Explore Plaka, Athens – The Heart of Ancient Greece
Welcome to Plaka, the most historic and scenic neighborhood in Athens. Nestled at the foot of the Acropolis, Plaka is known for its neoclassical architecture, winding streets, ancient ruins, and vibrant culture. Whether you’re visiting Athens for the first time or returning to soak in the atmosphere again, Plaka is a must-visit destination.
Top Attractions in Plaka, Athens
Anafiotika: Hidden within Plaka, Anafiotika is a whitewashed village built by craftsmen from the Cycladic island of Anafi. Its tranquil alleys offer stunning views and Instagram-worthy backdrops.
The Acropolis & Acropolis Museum: Just steps from Plaka, the Acropolis is a UNESCO World Heritage Site and Greece’s most famous ancient monument. Visit the nearby Acropolis Museum to explore over 4,000 years of history.
Adrianou Street: A popular pedestrian street with shops, cafés, and artisans selling traditional Greek products.
Roman Agora & Tower of the Winds: Explore ancient Athens with a walk through the Roman Agora, featuring one of the world’s first meteorological towers.
Best Things to Do in Plaka, Athens
- Dine at a traditional Greek taverna with live music
- Browse for handmade souvenirs and jewelry
- Visit Byzantine-era churches like Agios Nikolaos Rangavas
- Enjoy a coffee at a quiet courtyard café
- Catch a street performance by local musicians
After an amazing day of unforgettable sights and experiences, we’ll bring you back to your cruise ship, leaving you with lasting memories of Athens’ history, culture, and timeless charm. We can’t wait to share this special day with you!
Details
- Tours Available all year round
- Small groups max 19 people– Book on time
Persons with Disabilities
- Due to uneven surfaces, certain sites are not recommended for persons with walking disabilities or using a wheelchair.
- Such sites are the Acropolis, the Temple of Poseidon at Sounion, Mycenae, and Delphi
- In all cases, we recommend comfortable flat-solid walking shoes, sunglasses, and sunscreen.
Cruise port meeting
- Pick up and drop off from your ship dock as per the voucher’s instructions, and the indicated time on the voucher.
- Your ship will dock at Terminal A, B, or C. Please walk outside the exit of your designated terminal after disembarking. Our team will meet you there! Look for our team holding a sign that reads ‘PLANETOURAMA’.
- The maximum waiting time will be twenty (15) minutes. If you miss the minibus, please contact the emergency numbers to give you directions on how you meet the group in the city center. You will have to pay the transportation expenses on your own to the city center of Athens.
What you need to know
- We will send you the final instructions for joining our tour a few days prior. Please make sure to check your inbox and Spam folder before your tour.
- The tours are specifically designed for your cruise ship, its docking times, and its passengers. If your ship is delayed, the starting time will be postponed.
- Please note that the entry ticket to the Acropolis is NOT included in the tour price.
- Important Accessibility Information: Visiting the Acropolis requires extensive walking, including climbing 75 steps at the entrance and navigating uneven, slippery marble paths. This can be physically demanding, especially during the summer when crowds are large and temperatures can be high. For those with limited mobility, we recommend following the guide and exploring Areopagus and Herodion instead.
- What to bring with you: Passport or ID, Comfortable shoes, Sunglasses, Sun hat
Included in the Tour
- Pick up and drop off at the cruise ship pier. Optional pickup: Any hotel, accommodation, or central location in the city of Athens and Piraeus.
- Guaranteed return to ship on time
- Modern, comfortable, air-conditioned minibus
- Professional local English-speaking tour driver/guide
- Semi-Private Small Group: 19 guests for Round-Trip and 15 guests for Embark or Disembark Tour
- Luggage storage (Embark-Disembark Tour): 1 piece of luggage per person. If you have more, please contact us
- Free time for a light fast meal and souvenir shopping
- One complimentary bottle of water per person
- Full refund if your ship cannot dock
Excluded from the Tour
- Entrance fees per person (The Acropolis 30€ per person)
- Lunch in Plaka is optional (Own pay)
- Food and drinks
- Tips are welcome if you enjoy your tour. We recommend 10%
Cancellation Policy for Athens Semi-Private Shore Excursion in a Small Group 8 hours
- Semi-private tour bookings canceled up to 36 hours before the agreed date and time receive a full refund.
- 100% cancellation fees apply for any tour bookings canceled within the last 36 hours before the arrival date.
- Of course, if for any unforeseen reason, the ship does not dock at the port, then there will be a full refund.
