This fascinating tour will show you Athens in its truest sense: a complex, multilayered place comprised of centuries of history and influences from both the East and West. See Athens' most revered sites and appreciate the beauty of this special place.

About this activity

Free cancellation: Cancel up to 24 hours in advance to receive a full refund
Covid-19 precautions: Special health and safety measures apply. Learn more
Reserve now & pay later: Reserve now & pay later to book your spot without any charges today. Learn more
Duration 4 hours: Check availability to see starting times.
Live tour guide: English

Highlights

Visit the 19th century landmarks of the industrial revolution and royal palaces
Descend to a notorious prison of World War II (closed Mon and Tue)
Watch ancient rivers still flowing, and visits tombs of a foregone era
Discover landmark buildings of international architectural interest
Walk through preserved Ottoman neighborhoods

Full description

With a recorded history that spans over 3,400 years, Athens is one of the oldest cities in the world. This alternative walking tour takes you through Athens' rich history and multifaceted culture, surprising and enchanting you around every street corner. As you stroll through Athens' primeval streets, learn from your knowledgeable guide about the complex history of the ancient city. Visit landmark buildings such as the Parliament, the Academy, the University and the National Library, and come to understand their role in the construction of a contemporary European capital. Stroll through the beautiful neighborhoods of Psiri and Monastiraki, where the footprint of the Ottoman Empire is still present, to understand how the old city and its traditions mixed – or didn’t– with Western European values and ideas. Pass through Omonia Square, Kotzia Square, the central markets and many other fascinating sites, and discover the missing link between the glorious ancient past and the frantic, modern present.

Includes

English or French-speaking guide
City map highlighting the transformations of the city through 2,500 years

Food and drinks
Gratuity (optional)

Covid-19 precautions

Safety measures in place

All areas that customers touch are frequently cleaned
The number of visitors is limited to reduce crowds

Meeting point

Your meeting point is the fountain in Syntagma Square, Athens. Your guide will wait for you holding a sign with the local partner's name on it.

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Important information

What to bring

Comfortable shoes

Customer reviews

Overall rating

4.8 /5

based on 21 reviews

Review summary

Guide
5/5
Value for money
4.6/5
Service
4.9/5
Organization
4.9/5

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My son and I were absolutely delighted with this unusual experience with an exceptionally kind and professional guide. Valuable advice and explanations, a guide who adapted to our small group…. I really recommend this adventure!!! Many thanks again to Maroussa for her welcome and these rich moments shared together;) Unforgettable memories Jane

October 24, 2021

This tour was canceled the day before because we could not have a French speaking guide. In exchange, we took the street art tour with Maroussa. AWESOME. Maroussa is adorable and knows her subject inside out. She lived in Belgium for 20 years before returning to the land of her ancestors. We had a great time with her in the trendy areas of Athens. We recommend this street art tour with Maroussa. ONLY HAPPINESS

August 19, 2020

What an excellent experience this tour of Athens away from the usual places, in the heart of the "real" city ... Ariadni, our guide, made us discover many neighborhoods, explaining their history. It's really a very good experience ... Thanks again to Ariadni for her listening and her love for a country which is not hers but which has become ...

December 29, 2019

Athens: Alternative Walking Tour

Athens: Alternative Walking Tour

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