Walking Tours

Walking Tours

Popular Tours
See More Tours

Acropolis and Parthenon Tour

Many tourists around the Parthenon in Acropolis on a sunny day, Greece.

Welcome to Acropolis walking tours, where history comes to life amidst the ancient ruins of Athens. The Acropolis of Athens isn't just a collection of old stones; it symbolizes Greece's impressive history. For centuries, it was a sacred place where Athenians worshipped Athena, their city's patron goddess, and other gods and goddesses.

This wonder was built in the 5th century BC, showcasing ancient Greek brilliance. Perched atop a rocky outcrop, the Acropolis offers stunning views of Athens and its rich heritage.

Visiting the Acropolis is like stepping back in time, where every stone has a story to tell. From the grand Propylaea to the elegant Temple of Athena Nike, each structure shows ancient Greek architectural creativity.

The Acropolis defies its status as a mere tourist attraction. It's a journey through history where visitors explore democracy's birthplace and marvel at ancient achievements.

Join a guided tour to uncover the secrets of this place, where every corner reveals a piece of Athens' past.

Tour Highlights

  • Acropolis Guided Walking Tour: Your Athenian adventure begins with a guided walking tour to the Acropolis. As you ascend the Acropolis hill, prepare to be steeped in history at every turn.
  • Dionysus Sanctuary: This is where Athenians once reveled in theatrical performances honoring Dionysus, the god of wine, festivity, and theater.
  • Propylaea Gateway: Towering before you is the Propylaea, the grand entrance gateway to the Acropolis. Admire the Doric columns and imagine the throngs of pilgrims who once processed through this monumental entrance.
  • Temple of Athena Nike: A small but exquisitely proportioned temple dedicated to Athena Nike, the goddess of victory. Perched atop a citadel, this temple offers stunning views of Athens and is a testament to Athenian military prowess.
  • Odeon of Herodes Atticus: Step into a carefully preserved Roman theater still used for performances today.
  • Asklepieion of Athens: Dedicated to Asclepius, the god of medicine, this ancient center was where Athenians sought cures and treatments. Learn about the medical practices of the ancient Greeks.
  • Erechtheion: A breathtaking temple with a unique asymmetrical design. This structural marvel is believed to have been built on the exact spot where Athena and Poseidon competed for Athens. Look at the Caryatids, the statuesque maidens who support the temple's portico.
  • Mars Hill (Areopagus): This rocky outcrop served as the supreme court of ancient Athens. Standing where prominent Athenians once debated and delivered justice is a truly humbling experience.
  • Theater of Dionysus: Imagine the roar of the crowd as you enter the Theater of Dionysus, one of the oldest theaters in the world. Dating back to the 6th century BC, this theater was the birthplace of Athenian tragedy and comedy. Envision playwrights like Sophocles and Euripides presenting their works here, forever shaping the course of Western theater.
  • Walking to the Acropolis Parthenon: Standing proudly at the center of the Acropolis, the Parthenon is a Doric temple dedicated to Athena! The goddess of wisdom, handicraft, and warfare. Construction began in 447 BC and was completed in just over a decade. Let your guide unveil the architectural wonders of the Parthenon:
  • The Parthenon frieze: Stretching nearly 525 feet, this frieze depicted a procession during the Panathenaic Festival, a celebration of Athena's birthday.
  • The pediments: The eastern pediment showcased the birth of Athena from the head of Zeus. The western pediment depicted the struggle between Athena and Poseidon for control of Athens.
  • The colossal statues: Though no longer standing, the Parthenon was once adorned with massive statues of Athena. Among them was a gold and ivory statue by Phidias, one of the most celebrated sculptors of ancient Greece.
  • The interior of the Parthenon: Explore the inner sanctum (cella) where the gold and ivory statue of Athena Parthenos once stood. The Parthenon also houses the famous Parthenon Marbles, a series of marble sculptures that once adorned its exterior. Learn about the religious significance of the Parthenon and the offerings made to the goddess.

Visitor Highlights

  • A Journey Through Time: Our guided tours let visitors step back in time and explore the Acropolis, a UNESCO World Heritage Site. Expert tour guides will help you uncover the mysteries of ancient Greece and its legacy.
  • Unparalleled Views: At the top of the Acropolis, visitors are treated to breathtaking views of Athens, a city steeped in history and culture. Take in the panoramic views and capture memories that will last a lifetime.
  • Skip the Lines: With our tours, you can skip the ticket line and avoid long waiting times, maximizing your time in Athens. Explore the Acropolis at your own pace and soak up every moment of this memorable experience.
  • Immerse Yourself in History: From the Temple of Athena Nike to the Temple of Olympian Zeus, our tours offer an extensive exploration of ancient Greek architecture and mythology. Discover the stories behind these iconic landmarks and delve into the fascinating world of ancient Greece.

Travel Tips

  • Purchase entry tickets online in advance to avoid waiting in line.
  • Visit early in the morning or late afternoon to avoid crowds.
  • Wear comfortable footwear for walking.
  • Carry water to stay hydrated.
  • Opt for guided tours for insights.
  • Respect site rules of no littering and climbing on ruins.
  • Take breaks in between when needed, as continuous walking can be tiring.

Know Before You Go

What to Bring

  • Water bottle.
  • Sunscreen, Hat, or sunglasses .
  • Comfortable walking shoes.
  • Camera or smartphone for capturing memories.
  • Snacks or light bites if needed.
  • Valid ID proof and e-ticket or passes.
  • Small umbrella.
  • Cash or credit cards for shopping.

What not to Bring

  • Weapons or sharp objects.
  • Large bags or backpacks.
  • Food or drinks (except water) to avoid littering the site.
  • Pets (except for service animals).
  • Drones or other flying devices.

Getting There

  • Guided Tour Participants: If you're part of a guided tour, follow the instructions to reach the assigned meeting point. Use public transport to reach the meeting point. 
  • Hotel Pickup: If you've arranged a guided tour with a travel company, await hotel pickup at the specified time. Ensure you're ready and waiting in the hotel lobby.
  • Metro: You can take the metro to the Acropoli metro station, which is a short walk from the entrance to the site.
  • Bus: Several buses stop near the Acropolis, including routes 060, 100, and 224.
  • Taxis: Taxis are readily available throughout Athens. Hail one on the street or request one through a ride-hailing app like Uber or Beat.
  • Tip: Invest in a pre-paid travel card, like the Athens Pass, which offers unlimited travel on public transport for a set period. This can be a cost-effective way to explore the city, including reaching the Temple of Olympian Zeus.