eco tours athens

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Our tours are designed to showcase the natural beauty and cultural richness of beautiful athens while minimizing our impact on the environment., ayo's trike.

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AYO's Trike are three-wheeled e-vehicles that are used for private and tourism recreation fun use. AYO's Trike are typically designed with three wheels PATENT, two at the back and one at the front, which provides stability and balance when driving.

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Our expert guides are always smiling helpful and very attentive to the needs of our customers will surely lead you on a journey through Europe's most scenic regions, sharing their knowledge and enthusiasm of the local culture.

guided tours on AYO's Trike and self use rentals are a wonderful, easy and accessable tool to explore a new area, landscape or historical adventures while enjoying the benefits of an eco-friendly vehicle and safe mode of transportation.

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Athens Eco Tours - All You MUST Know Before You Go (2024)

Athens Eco Tours Greece

• Sample Itineraries
• Birdwatching Tours
• Walking Tours
• Wildflower Tours

Athens Eco Tours are private-guided in Athens and the surrounding region Attica. When you are looking for:

• Athens uncrowded
• Athens off-the-beaten-track
• Athens birding
• Athens’ rich natural heritage

you can drop us a line . Get a private-guided day tour with a f ocus of your choice : hiking, wellness, birds, plants or butterflies.

During this excursion, you will learn about Greek mythology too, since many of it originated and were related to nature. Expect to observe some rare and endemic species. What about the Micromeria acropolitana , the plant that grows near the Acropolis rock and nowhere else in the world? On that same Acropolis rock, you can spot the Little Owl ( Athena noctua ), resting in its holes in broad daylight!

Programs on offer:

• a nature hike and wellness experience in the Athens Riviera
• a guided eco-tour in the center of Athens or
• a private guided tour on National Park Mt. Ymmitos , walk amidst monasteries and wildflowers just a stone’s throw from the bustling city
• wetland, pine forest and beach of Schinias for the best birdwatching

Friendly and highly knowledgeable   Natural Greece  nature guides are here to customize the private-guided Athens Eco tours for you. Just contact us with your special needs and wishes and we get back to you right away.

Highlights:

• Plants. We can see, depending on the season, the endemics: S ilene spinescens, Silene corinthiaca, Dianthus diffusus, Stachys spruneri, Malcolmia graeca, Ebenus sibthorpii, Helianthemum hymettium, Consolida tenuissima, Onosma kaheirei, Campanula drabifolia, Campanula celsii, Centaurea attica, Inula methanea, Scorzonera crocifolia, Chondrilla ramosissima, Colchicum sfikasianum, Colchicum lingulatum, Bellevalia hyacinthoides, Muscari pulchellum, Fritilaria graeca, Fritillaria obliqua, Gagea pseudopeduncularis, Ornithogalum atticum, Crocus laevigatus, Crocus cartwrigthianus, Ophrys aesculapii, Ophrys leucadica, Ophrys schlechteriana, Ophrys attica, Ophrys leptomera, Ophrys melena  and many more interesting plants!
• Birds. There are more than 250 bird species flying around Athens! Including Bonelli’s Eagle  Aquila fasciata , Cretzschmar’s Bunting  Emberiza caesia , Ferruginous Duck  Aythya nyroca , Rufous Bush-robin  Cercotrichas galactotes or Ruppell’s Warbler  Sylvia rueppelli at some great birdwatching sites within an hour from Athens center (Vravrona, Mt. Imittos, Sounio, Oropos river, Schinias wetland).
• Butterflies. There are around 100 species that fly at the area around Athens, like: Southern Swallowtail  Papilio alexanor , Cleopatra  Gonepteryx cleopatra , Meleager’s Blue  Meleageria daphnis , Large Wall Brown  Lasiommata maera and Southern White Admiral  Limenitis reducta .

Sample program 1:

Athens Riviera Nature Hike

This hiking experience takes place along the sensational “Athens Riviera”.

Well-kept secret: Attica, the region surrounding Athens has a  rich natural heritage . You can observe some 1.500 flora species and over 300 bird species in the region and take in vistas that will take your breath away. This venue is located around 21 km/13 miles South of the Athens city center.

Many flowers here are connected to  Greek mythology : Narcissus, Anemone, Crocus or Iris. This is where they flower in the wild, each with their own intriguing story! The best way to discover this is on foot and with a naturalist guide.

Enjoy  stunning views  from the hills to the  Mediterranean Sea  and islets in the distance a stone’s throw away from Athens! See many wildflowers blooming, among them many endemics (= unique plants that only can be found in Greece and nowhere else in this world!).

Apart from  Sage  we will discover many more remarkable plant species such as  Thyme, the   wild olive tree, numerous orchid species  and  bluebells . Hear stories from  Greek history  that are linked to Greek flora and fauna. We could even embark on a hunt for  tortoises, chukar partridges  and  lizards !  Food foraging  could be part of the experience. Picking  capers  in Summer,  olives  in Winter or aromatic  herbs & wild greens  called “Horta” year-round.

Combine this tour with a wellness experience: a visit to the Lake Vouliagmeni !

Contact us with your Athens Eco Tours wish list.

Sample program 2:

Birdwatching in Athens

Your bird guide will come and meet you at your place in Athens. The green hills of Pnyx, Philopappou & Mars are located opposite the Acropolis in Athens. We will take a pleasant stroll, looking for the winged inhabitants.

Apart from its great cultural significance, the city of Athens boasts a rich biodiversity. During this excursion, you will learn about Greek mythology too since much of it originated and was related to nature.

On our walk, depending on the season, we will see several native and migrating bird species.

Among them, there may be many different  tits ,  warblers ,  flycatchers  some  falcons  and  kestrels , as well as the famous  little owl , symbol of the city. Expect some amazing views of the Acropolis (actually: the best angle for taking pictures is from Pnyx Hill) and the Ancient Agora.

Sample program 3:

Nature & Culture of Vravronas wetland 

Meet your  local bird  guide in the lobby of your Athens hotel (or alternatively port or airport). Drive to  Vravronas  wetland and Ancient site & Archeological Museum , near  Athens Airport.   Vravronas wetland  extends from the borders of the archaeological site to the coastal zone, following the mouth of River Erasinos. In this area, Erasinos retains freshwater flow all year round. Several fish species live in these waters, from the rare and endangered Marathon Minnow to the common Mosquito Fish. Other common species include the Striped Terrapin, Marsh Frog, Grass Snake , and Eel. The reedbeds that cover the banks of Erasinos are nesting sites of the Moorhen and the Water Rail, while Little Bitterns and other herons can be seen during migration. In the wet meadows, Glossy Ibis is a frequent sighting and passerines like the Nightingale sing from the dense shrubs and bushes that cover a large part of the wetland.   During this trip, you will walk the trails and discover nature in this remarkable landscape, famous already from antiquity.    The area became well known when the Temple of Artemis was built (late 6th century BC). Every five years a procession, starting from the Athens Acropolis and ending to Vravrona, signaled the opening of the religious feast of the Great Vravronia. Near the ancient temple is the Archeological Museum of Vravronas. A visit  gives you an overview of the site, the excavations and the various findings here in Vravronas. Transfer back to either your hotel, the port or the airport.    

Sample program 4:

Birdwatching at Ymmitos & Marathon

In the morning we will be visiting  Mt. Ymmitos , near Athens, looking for specials like Rock Nuthatch, Ruppel’s Warbler, Cretzschmar’s Bunting, Barred Warbler, Black-eyed Wheatear, Eastern Orphean Warbler, and more.

Next destination: Marathon and Schinias National Park. Marathon and Schinias are located North of the airport of Athens, approx. half an hour drive. You will visit the historical sites and top archeological museum and learn about the Battle of Marathon (490 BC), arguably the most defining battle in Western history. It is also the birthplace of the marathon run. Visit nearby  Schinias National Park , which is part of Natura 2000 network and considered the most important coastal ecosystem of Attica. It has a total of 19 habitat types, 240 bird species while there are threatened species of freshwater fish, amphibians, and reptiles. Highlight species include permanent residents Long-legged Buzzard, Little Owl, Chukar, Blue Rock Thrush, Penduline Tit, Short-toed treecreeper, and Cirl Bunting. Transfer to your hotel in Athens.    

Tour Reviews

We are just recovering from a mammoth day’s birding around Athens. All the logistics were perfect and Demitra provided a home-cooked lunch that was better than good.

I wanted to let you know I had a great time with Chris yesterday. We saw a great variety of birds — raptors, shorebirds, warblers and many others. It was hot but Chris changed our itinerary accordingly. And he was really easy to spend 10 hours with. I had a great time. Thanks so much for making all the arrangements.

We have partnered with Natural Greece for organizing outdoor activities for our global volunteers and our Let’s be S.M.A.R.T. Greece team. We all had an amazing time when participating in the Mediterranean Monk Seal expedition to Leichadonissia, the nature hike in the Athens Riviera and sea-kayaking at the Varkiza coast! Chantel and her team went out of their way when organizing our tours and we greatly appreciate their professional and reliable services as well as their warm and friendly communication. Our Let’s be S.M.A.R.T. team and our global volunteers learned so much from the expert tour leaders about the unique animals and eco-systems in Greece and had an opportunity to explore some great places and enjoy the outdoors in the Attika region. We look forward to participating in forthcoming tours with Natural Greece!

Chantel went above and beyond what we expected. We went kayaking but since the winds were very strong we had to shorten that part of the tour. She allowed us to substitute swimming in the Aegean Sea instead. She was very accommodating when it came to our needs. She really listens.

Chantel once again provided a wonderful day for us outdoors in Athens. She organised sea kayaking for us with an expert guide and changed her schedule to make our experience happen based on the current weather/wind conditions. After a nice kayak paddle to a small uninhabited island and back, we headed back for a short hike to see the sought after endemic saffron producing crocus plants just now blooming! Then a trip to the beautiful and rejuvenating Vouliagmeni /lake. The garrarufa cleaned our feet!

We had an amazing time in Athens in September with Chantel K. We hired her for 2 days. Communication prior to travel was outstanding and she went above and beyond to accommodate our somewhat hectic and complicated schedule. I would highly recommend her services and plan to use her again next time I’m in Athens with customers. 15 out of 10! Audrey Chan

Chantel was amazing! We had a vertical enjoyable swim at the lake and got a free manicure and pedicure from the fishies!!! Then she took us on a beautiful nature hike and she knew so much about the local flora and fauna that it was really interesting. She even stopped and got us ice cream at the end of the hike! The beach was stunning and we had a wonderful time. Go to the Athens Riviera with Chantel! I promise you won’t forget it 🙂

Thanks to my guides I had a great afternoon of birding and saw several new species for my life list. It’s a trip I could not have done on my own so I am glad for the expertise and customer service of Natural Greece. Our conversations about ecology and conservation added to my enjoyment. I recommend that more travelers get out of Athens with this group!

Our family European odyssey was challenging with 8 people but successful. Although we were limited in birding, by being a tad early for migrants, we managed to see 92 species – of which 11 were Lifers! What a treat to get the pictures and triplist! I am so appreciative of the polished and professional way that you have wrapped up our trip. We are all very glad we “found you” and entrusted most of our time in Greece to your capable hands. All 3 of you are top notch!

Best Wishes and Good Birding!

Thanks for a great day. I enjoyed it immensely, including seeing some new birds, getting some good pictures, and seeing the southern Mainland coast. How beautiful.

We did a wonderful hike and lake swim with Chantel. Her knowledge of the local flora and fauna is outstanding. We travelled with a visually impaired friend and Chantel tailored the hike exactly to our needs. We are so grateful for her kind and generous spirit. Natural-Greece is really taking eco tourism to new heights. Thank you for such a wonderful experience and magical memories.

This was an informative and exciting afternoon excursion. Chantel, was prompt, picking us up at the hotel to safely drive us through mad Athens traffic. Chantel was genuine and personable, sharing her life and experiences in Greece. She had a wide breadth of knowledge about the locales she took us to. Her education in agriculture and botany taught us a lot during the nature hike. Kayaking on the sea was a blast, we saw flying fish! I recommend Chantel to any traveller visiting Athens

Tobias Lowe Canada

Our tour with Chantel was one of the BEST tours we have ever had. She showed us the REAL Greece. We swam in Vouliagmeni Lake (spa fish lake). HIGHLIGHT-a place most “tourist” do not know about. We hiked and saw vegetation and looked at wildlife. We found capers and prepared a wonderful lunch at Chantel’s BEAUTIFUL home. Everything was DELICIOUS. Then we swam in the Mediterranean Sea. Kayaked around the swim area. PERFECT. PERFECT. PERFECT. Would go again in a heart beat. Chantel listens to your needs.

Marcia Reynolds USA

Thank you for kind support and I enjoyed many flowers. You introduced me to very good places which I cannot go by myself.And I was surprised that you know all of plants with academic name. I think you are a real professional.Thank you again for your kindness.

Noda Hideto Yaroslavl, Russia

We had a swim and were nibbled by fish, then walked through a nature reserve finding interesting plants and birds (and a tortoise) and finished the morning with a picnic. For the afternoon Chantel arranged for us to go on a sea kayak trip with another really great guide. We couldn’t have felt better looked after.

Elizabeth Lindley Leeds, UK

If you have a chance to do this excursion you should! The hike was amazing! It was very informative and you can see some amazing views of the islands and sea. The kayaking trip was well worth the money as well. The whole trip was well organized, you had everything you needed. Chantel was so kind and she packed snacks and lunch. Could not have asked for a better way to see the coast of Athens. Can not recommend this enough!!

Cheyenne Maastricht, The Netherlands

Even though we contacted Chantel on a very short notice asking for something very precise (sea kayaking), Chantel answered us very quickly and managed to organize a very nice day during which we did both hiking in nature and sea kayaking. She was eager to answer our questions and to share her knowledge while the kayaking trip was safe, adventurous and perfect! Thanks!

Marion Riffault Paris, France

Chantel hosted an amazing activity which I was lucky enough to attend. Chantel made an excellent tour for us in the hills around Athens and swimming in the lake and ocean. Thanks once again for showing us such a great day 🙂

Chloe Coulson Brussels, Belgium

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Best Tours & Things To Do in Athens

Greece › Athens › Athens Tours Updated: March 12, 2024 By Santorini Dave

See Also • Where to Stay in Athens • Best Hotels in Athens • Best Family Hotels in Athens • Best Museums in Athens • Best Archaeological Sites in Athens

The Parthenon (the building, pictured above), Acropolis (the entire site, which includes the Parthenon and several other structures), and Acroplis Museum (a stunning modern building, just down the hill from the Acropolis) are the must-see highlights of Athens. The Acropolis Private Tour and the Acropolis Small Group Tour are the best ways to visit and explore these sights.

The 11 Best Tours in Athens Original Greek Food Tour of Athens The single best tour for exploring the urban core of modern Athens. This is a fun walking tour of the best food and restaurants in central Athens. There’s also a stop at the iconic Central Market (fruit, vegetables, fish, meat, spices). You’ll get a good overview of the city’s culture (and a bit of history) while eating some great food with a friendly guide. There’s a 10am morning tour and a 2pm afternoon tour. I know I sound like a broken record on this but food tours are an awesome way to explore a new city. Acropolis & Acropolis Museum Tour with Entry Tickets A 4-hour small-group guided tour of the Acropolis, Parthenon, and nearby Acropolis Museum. Includes entrance tickets to both the Acropolis and the Acropolis Museum. (A huge advantage of doing a tour is that you get skip-the-line tickets. When you visit on your own you need to queue for tickets and that line can be insanely long.) The entrance to the marvelous Acropolis Museum, with the Parthenon visible in the background. Athens City Highlights Tour (Private Tour) This is a great private tour of the Acropolis and surrounding area (Parthenon, Erechtheion, Propylaea, Temple of Nike, Dionysus Sanctuary, Odeon of Herodes Atticus, and Ancient Agora) and is the best way to see the highlights of Athens and learn the city’s history. Like all tours, your guide will have access to skip-the-line tickets for the Acropolis which allows you to bypass the long entrance queues. This tour is very flexible with time, duration, and route. Athens Original Street Art Tour Awesome tour of the graffiti and street art of central Athens. Many tours describe themselves as “off the beaten path” that only visit the expected top sights. This one really does explore a side of Athens tourists rarely explore or think about. Very cool and great for families with teens. Traditional Greek Cooking Lesson Great introduction to Greek food and how to make it. Recipes will be sent to you so you can prepare them at home. Very family-friendly. There’s also an excellent Night Food & Wine Tasting Tour . Private Wine Tour and Lunch The best wine tour from Athens with an excellent tour guide (usually Spyros – he really knows his wine). Includes hotel pick up and drop and a good quality lunch at a seaside taverna. Old Town Highlights Electric Bike Tour Fun and easy-going tour of the highlights of central Athens on simple-to-use electrick bikes. The 9 KM route takes in most of the top historic sights and tours Plaka and National Gardens. Tour starts at 10am in an easy-to-find spot in Plaka. A Bike Tour is a great way to see the highlights of central Athens. Athens Eco Tours (6 hours) Bespoke private tours exploring the natural heritage and biodiversity just outside the city, whether hiking, birdwatching, spotting butterflies and wildflowers among the monastaries, or seeking out the elusive Mediterranean monk seal. Tours are led by ecologists, botanists, biologists, and other environmental scientists, depending on the particular excursion. Delphi Day Trip from Athens (10 hours) Hotel pickup (in Athens) and transportation to one of the top historical sites in Greece. Tour guide and lunch included. There’s also a private Delphi tour if that’s what you prefer. Meteora Monasteries (12 hours) The Meteora is my favorite destination in mainland Greece. It’s spectacular. Delphi is great, but you do need to have a keen interest in Greek history to make it worth the trip. The Meteora, on the other hand, will appeal to anyone with a pulse. The dramatic and awesome setting is stunning. It’s very hard to visit the Meteora in one day unless you do a private Meteora tour . With this tour, you’ll get picked up from your hotel (in Athens) and make the 3-hour drive to the Meteora. A stop for lunch and a few other historical sights are built into the itinerary but most of the focus is on seeing the monasteries of the Meteora. There is also a cheaper Meteora tour that involves taking the train; an overnight tour that allows for a complete tour of all 6 monasteries (worth it if you have the time); and a combination tour that visits both Delphi and the Meteora . Full Day Tour & Sailing to Agistri, Moni, & Aegina (10 hours) Great boat tour of 3 wonderful islands a short boat ride from Athens. Lots of swimming and sunbathing. Includes traditional Greek lunch, made and served onboard. Highly recommended!

The Best Things To Do in Athens 1. The Acropolis and Parthenon One of the most important archaeological sites in Greece, this ancient hilltop citadel houses the remains of several temples, including the Parthenon. The Acropolis was inhabited from the 4th millennium B.C., though its most recognizable landmarks date to the 5th century B.C. The Acropolis site includes the Parthenon (a temple of Athena, goddess of wisdom, civilization, and war), Temple of Athena Nike (a temple to Athena, triumphant in war), the Erechtheion (temple of Athena and Poseidon – god of the sea, earthquakes, and horses), and more. On the way up to the Acropolis, you’ll see the Odeon of Herodes Atticus and pass by the trail to the Sanctuary of Dionysus, both on the slope of the hill beneath the Acropolis. Tickets to the Acropolis can be purchased on their own or bundled with the Ancient Agora, Hadrian’s Library, Acropolis Museum, the Roman Agora, and more. I strongly recommend doing a guided tour of the Acropolis . Guides will have skip-the-line tickets and lines can often be two hours long. If you’re part of a tour you’ll skip right by the queues. Best Acropolis & Parthenon Tours • Acropolis Tour (small group) • Acropolis & Acropolis Museum Tour (small group) • Acropolis Tour (private) • Acropolis & Acropolis Museum Tour (private) 2. Acropolis Museum This spectacular and relatively new museum is a highlight of a visit to Athens. It’s located a short walk from the Acropolis (head south down the hill towards the Odeon of Herodes Atticus), so the two sites are easy to visit together and complement each other well. (If you have 5 hours or less in Athens then visit the Acropolis and Acropolis Museum.) The museum houses and displays artifacts sourced from the Acropolis and its slopes, and rests upon huge pillars over the excavated ruins of an ancient Athenian neighborhood (which is included in the admission fee). There’s an excellent cafe on site, with terrace seating in the shadow of the Parthenon. Doing a guided tour of both the Acropolis and Acropolis Museum is a great way to save time (as tour guides will have skip-the-line tickets to both attractions). You can also buy skip the line tickets for the Acropolis Museum separately. 3. National Archaeological Museum The single best museum in Greece, loaded with archaeological treasures. It’s one of the few top attractions that isn’t a short walk from the Plaka/Acropolis area so you’ll need to take a taxi (5 minutes), metro (10 minutes, get out at Omonia station), or walk (about 25 minutes from Plaka or Syntagma Square). If you have only one day in Athens you might be forced to miss this. If you have 2 days or more then make an effort to get here. The experience is dramatically enhanced if you get a private tour guide to explain all the history and top exhibits. If you don’t do a tour then you can get tickets in advance here .

Visit the charming and chaotic Central Market on the Original Greek Food Tour of Athens .

4. Plaka and Monastiraki These adjacent neighborhoods at the base of the Acropolis are filled with historical sites like the Agora, Hadrian’s Library, Temple of Hephaestus, and Stoa of Attalos. Largely pedestrianized throughout, Plaka and Monastiraki feature a fun and lively atmosphere that’s great for wandering, shopping, eating, and sightseeing. They’re also two of our favorite areas to stay in Athens , and are home to many of our favorite restaurants and hotels . 5. The Agoras Agora means marketplace in Greek, and there are two archaeological sites in Athens that house the remains and artifacts of these communal gathering spaces. Combination tickets to the Athens archaeological sites are available that include both Agoras, the Acropolis, Hadrian’s Library, the Acropolis Museum, and more. The Ancient Agora lies between Monastiraki and the base of the Acropolis. It’s easy to make out the ancient streets and squares here that were once the haunting ground of Socrates and Plato. This sprawling area includes sites such as the Temple of Hephaestus (shown above), the Stoa of Attalos (which houses a small and interesting museum), and the Byzantine Church of the Holy Apostles. Much of the Ancient Agora dates to the 2nd Century BC or even earlier. The Roman Agora was built during the reigns of Julius Ceasar and Ceasar Augustus in the 1st century BC. It has an impressive entrance (the Gate of Athena Archegetis), but not as much going on as in the Ancient Agora. The most famous structure in the Roman Agora is the eight-sided, marble Tower of the Winds: combination weather vane, water clock, and sundial, built by a Macedonian astronomer in the 2nd century BC. The Roman Agora lies on the border between the Monastiraki and Plaka neighborhoods of central Athens. 6. Changing of the Guard (Evzones) Every hour on the hour, there is a changing of the guard at the Hellenic Parliament building on Syntagma Square. The guards, known as Evzones, stand stock-still before the Tomb of the Unknown Soldier until the ritual begins: a slow-motion dance of precision and strength. Usually, the practice involves two guards who are wearing a more understated version of the traditional uniform in khaki, black, and white (shown above). On Sunday mornings at 11am, however, visitors can expect to see many more guards and a more elaborate ritual, with Evzones led by a military band and dressed in the more traditional and colorful uniforms that are reserved for special occasions. (Interesting fact: the kilt of the Evzone uniform has exactly 400 pleats; one for each year of Turkish occupation.) It is free to watch the ceremony; arrive early on Sundays to secure a good view.

See the Changing of the Guard at the Unknown Soldier Monument on the excellent Private Guided Tour of Athens, Acropolis, and Acropolis Museum .

7. The National Garden A short walk from Syntagma Square and the Greek Parliament buildings, The National Garden provides a relaxing break from the chaos of busy Athens. Take a picnic, let the kids run around and watch the ducks and turtles (there’s a nice children’s playground in the garden’s southeast quadrant), or simply relax in the shade for a bit. In addition to the greenery, the National Garden also has some ancient ruins, Corinthian columns, mosaics, and a small botanical museum on site. And it’s free. 8. Temple of Olympian Zeus The Temple of Olympian Zeus dates back to the 6th century BC; it once featured over 100 17-meter columns and was filled with statues of gods and emperors, but after centuries of damage, only 15 columns remain standing. It is the namesake and most prominent feature of the Olympieion archaeological site, which also includes ruins of Roman baths, Classical residences, a 5th century basilica, and a portion of the city’s fortification wall. The well-preserved marble Arch of Hadrian (132 A.D.) sits just outside the Temple of Olympian Zeus, and they’re both only a 5-minute walk from the Acropolis Museum, making them an easy stop in the central area. The Temple of Olympian Zeus is included on the combination ticket of Athens archaeological sites. 9. Eco & Wildlife Tours There is more to Athens than ancient ruins. The city makes an excellent home base for trekking into the wilds of Attica and beyond, a welcome break from the crowds. Natural Greece offers several sustainable tours where travelers can participate in conservation efforts on land or at sea, while led by a team of environmental scientists. Day tours leaving from Athens may focus on birdwatching, wildflowers, butterflies, or hiking. Multi-day tours are best (though day trips are possible) for studying the ultra-rare Mediterranean monk seal (seen above), one of the rarest marine mammals in the world. Private or small group tours available. 10. Athens Central Market A wonderful and lively slice of modern Athens. Meats, olives, feta, spices, olive oil, fruits, vegetables – you name it, it’s here. The adjacent side streets are lined with shops of all kinds. The excellent Original Greek Food Tour of Athens stops here and explains the markets origins and history. Located about 500 meters north of Monastiraki Square in central Athens. 11. Benaki Museum of Greek Culture Established in 1930, this well-curated collection of Greek artwork and artifacts (ranging from ancient to modern) is set in the beautiful neoclassical family mansion of Antonis Benaki, who also donated over 35,000 pieces of his own art collection. Along with paintings and sculpture, the museum houses terrific examples of historic Greek textiles, jewelry, and other cultural artifacts. The Benaki also maintains satellite galleries throughout Athens, which include the Museum of Islamic Art, The Ghika Gallery, and the Toy Museum. Located in central Athens near Syntagma Square, across the street from the Parliament building and the National Garden. Closed Tuesdays.

The Athens’ restaurant scene is lively and fun. The Nighttime Food and Wine Tasting Tour is a great way to explore some of the best dining spots.

12. Monastiraki Flea Market On Mondays to Saturdays, the “Flea Market” adjacent to Monastiraki Square is mostly a collection of narrow pedestrian lanes lined with souvenir and sandals shops, but on Sundays people come from miles around to sell all manner of used, cheap, and antique goods: books, clothing, trinkets, toys, furniture, textiles, home goods, electronics, anything you can think of and then some. It’s crowded and cramped, but fun and free and always interesting; arrive before 11am to avoid the crush. The best stuff is usually found at the stalls crowded into the market’s epicenter at Avissinias Square, with lanes of quirky vendors branching out from there in every direction. 13. National Historical Museum The oldest of its kind in Greece, the National Historical Museum in Athens was founded in 1882, and has found its permanent home in the building that housed the Greek Parliament from 1875 to 1932. The museum’s permanent collection tells the story of Greek culture throughout the ages; corridors and rooms narrate different centuries and periods. Items on display include weapons, personal belongings and memorabilia from historical personalities such as Lord Byron, historical paintings by Greek and foreign artists, authentic manuscripts, and a large collection of traditional Greek costumes and jewelry from various regions of Greece. Located one block northwest of Syntagma Square. General admission fee is 3€, with free entrance on Sundays; closed Mondays. 14. Athens Churches Visiting churches in Athens offers a unique insight into Greece’s deep religious traditions and architectural beauty. From the historic significance of the Byzantine-era Panagia Kapnikarea nestled within Athens’ bustling district to the serene majesty of the Metropolitan Cathedral (pictured above) and it’s diminutive neighbor the “ Little Metropolis “, each distinct church is a testament to Greece’s rich spiritual heritage and artistic achievement. These sacred sites not only serve as places of worship, but also as testaments to the city’s centuries-old history and singular spaces in which art, history, and spirituality intertwine. Note that modest dress is required in Greek Orthodox churches and monasteries, which means avoiding exposed knees and shoulders for both women and men. If you’re wearing shorts, a short skirt, or a tank top, covering up with a wrap before entering is appropriate and appreciated. 15. Outdoor Cinema Watch a movie in the heart of Plaka under the lights of the Acropolis at Cine Paris rooftop outdoor theater. Films are typically American (in english) with Greek subtitles. Beer, wine, and light snacks are available. Tickets are sold at the theater box office only; we recommend queueing up early or buying tickets in advance, as shows often sell out. With theaters generally operating from May to October, outdoor cinema is a highlight of summer in Greece. More great outdoor cinemas in central Athens: Cine Thisio – Another excellent spot with Parthenon views, located on the Acropolis’ western side. Tickets sold at the theater only. Cine Aegli – Atop Zappeion Hall in the National Garden. Wonderful food and service. Tickets sold at the theater only. Cine Dexameni – In Kolonaki, at the foot of Lycabettus Hill. Online tickets available. 16. Hadrian’s Library Built by the Roman Emperor Hadrian in 132 A.D., this complex once housed three stories of books, as well as areas dedicated to academic instruction, reading, philosophical walks and reflection, and athletic recreation. The site also includes what is believed to be the oldest Christian church in Athens. Hadrian’s Library is located very near Monastiraki Square and is included on the combination ticket of Athens archaeological sites. 17. Panathenaic (Olympic) Stadium Also known as Kallimarmaro , this 50,000 capacity stadium hosted the first modern Olympic Games in 1896, and was built on the site of the original stadium for the Panathenaic Games (330 BC), which were held every 4 years in honor of the goddess Athena. It is the only stadium in the world built entirely out of marble. The stadium continues to hold regular concerts in the summer, as well as host significant cultural, sporting, and ceremonial events. It is the finishing point for the annual Athens Classic Marathon, and during an Olympic Games year, it is the hand-off location for the Olympic flame from Greece. Enjoy impressive views of Mt. Lycabettus and the Acropolis by climbing to the top. Located in the district of Pangrati in central Athens, near the National Garden and the Temple of Olympian Zeus; about a 1km walk from Syntagma Square. Daily runs are held every morning from 7:30am to 9:00am. 18. Benizelos Mansion Located in the Plaka neighborhood, the Benizelos Mansion is the oldest surviving house in Athens, built between the 16th and 17th centuries. The residence’s original occupants were Athenian aristocrats with Byzantine roots, and their 2-story house gives modern-day visitors a sense of the traditions and lifestyles of wealthy Athenians before the Greek revolution against the Ottoman Empire. The house is also known as the House of Saint Philothei, in honor of the couple’s daughter, Revoula, a philanthropist and freedom-fighter for Greek women enslaved into harems by the Ottomans. Severely beaten and later succumbing to death from her injuries, she is revered as a martyr and has been canonized as Saint (Agia) Philothei, which translates to “friend of God”. The Benizelos Mansion is open limited hours, entrance fee is by donation and goes to charity. 19. Mount Lycabettus The highest point in Athens with dramatic panoramic views out over the entire city. Located across Plaka and Syntagma Square from the Acropolis (and shown here on the left), the 300 meter hilltop can be reached by foot or via a funicular tram that travels in a tunnel inside the hill. At the top sits the quaint and beautiful St George’s Chapel, an all-day cafe, and a panoramic fine-dining restaurant. 20. Temple of Poseidon at Cape Sounio This ancient site is an 80-minute drive southeast of Athens. It’s super interesting, but only worth the trip if you have 3 days or more in the capital (any less and your time is better spent in central Athens). The excellent Cape Sounion Small-Group Tour with Sunset Viewing includes hotel pick up from central Athens. 21. Voluntourism at Let’s Be S.M.A.R.T. This cat sanctuary south of the city has been caring for Athens many, many stray cats since 2011, nursing them to health and sheltering them until they can be adopted, often into homes abroad. Volunteers and veterinary interns are always needed to assist with daily operations of the shelter, feeding kittens, caring for elderly and infirm cats, aiding nearby feral cat colonies, and more. Multi-day stays at the shelter include accommodations, breakfast and lunch, organized activities, and more. Duties vary according the the volunteer’s or intern’s skill set and shelter needs.

The Best Places to Eat & Drink in Athens

Highly recommended: The Original Athens Food Tour – a great introduction to the city’s food and culture. Visit markets, top restaurants, specialty shops, and trendy neighborhoods.

22. Best Gyros and Souvlaki in Athens Athens is loaded with great restaurants , but for good cheap eats, nothing beats an authentic gyro from a local shop. There’s a strip of good gyro places just off Monastiraki Square (opposite the metro station). Our favorites in central Athens include Kostas and O Thanasis . If you have time, Kavouras in the Exarcheia neighborhood (and not far from the The National Archaeological Museum) and O Elvis in Kerameikos are worth seeking out. 23. Best Restaurant in Athens The best restaurant in the Plaka area is Psarras Taverna . With a magical setting and great traditional Greek food, Psarras (also known as The Old Tavern of Psaras) has been around since 1898 – and for good reason. It’s wonderfully romantic, with a casual vibe, great house wine, and live music on weekend nights. If you only eat at one spot in Athens, make it this one. Reservations are recommended for dinner. (+30 21 0321 8734) 24. Best Bar in Athens Warm and lively Baba Au Rum is my favorite place to get a drink in the tourist center. It’s world renowned for its excellent cocktails and often packed, but staff are friendly and helpful even when it’s busy. 25. Best Rooftop Bar in Athens 360° Cocktail Bar , the rooftop bar of Hotel 360° in Monastiraki, features signature cocktails, regional wine and food pairings, and killer rooftop views to the Acropolis. Go at sunset, but make a reservation in advance to secure a good table. (+30 21 0321 0006) 26. Best Gelato in Athens Coco’s has the best gelato in Athens. It’s worth seeking this place out when you’re wandering through Plaka. La Greche in Syntagma is also really good.

I know I’ve recommended a ton of stuff. If you’re still undecided, then remember the Parthenon and Acropolis are the must-see attractions for first time visitors to Athens. Doing an Acropolis Private Guided Tour is an awesome way to learn and explore.

About Santorini Dave

Dave Love your site If I am interested in the private Acropolis tour with skip the line, are entry tickets included? If not how do we get those? Thanks

Yes, they are usually included in a private tour. And even when they’re not tours have access to a faster ticket line when queueing for tickets.

I have read so much about Delphi and Meteora and would like to join a tour so it is easy for us. Which is the best tour you would recommend and should I just do Meteora or both and should I do day or overnight trips? I looked and saw many tours are either large group or private tours only. Are there any that has a small group-small bus kind?

If I could only do one it would be the Meteora. Absolutely stunning! For both Delphi and the Meteora it’s much better to do an overnight trip and get to the sights early in the morning before the tour buses arrive. (And late afternoon after they’ve departed.) The Meteora tour I listed above is a private tour and very well done. Private tours are just about always worth the extra cost if it’s within your budget.

Dave! Thanks for putting this together.

Would love to do a food tour, unfortunately, the “Original Athens Food Tour” is sold out on our day in Athens. Do you have another recommendation that tours good Greek food and restaurants in Athens?

Taste of Athens also does a very good food tour of Athens. Try them.

Hi Dave, We need your advice on how to go to Delphi from Kalambaka. My plan is to stay 1 night in Kalambaka and the next day we will visit Delphi and back to Athens.

Thanks to you and this blog, it is very helpful!

Getting from Kalambaka (the Meteora) to Delphi involves taking the bus via Trikala. The route is different depending on the day but takes between 5 and 7 hours. The latest you can leave Kalambaka is 2pm. If you’re starting from Athens and want to visit both sights then the Delphi and Meteora tour is good value.

Is there a tour or event that we could see traditional Greek dancing and music in central Athens?

Thanks Santorini Dave!

This is a good tour for Greek dancing . Yes, it’s for tourists but the dancing is great and food very good. It’s a fun atmosphere.

Your blog is very helpful. Thank you. I have a question. I have a spare day in Athens (after covering the Parthenon, Plaka, and area) and I really want to visit Meteora. I know it seems like overkill for one day. The other two options are the tour to Delphi or the 3 islands tour (Hydra, Poros, Aigina). Let me know what you would think about the one day trip to Meteora. Thanks again!

The Meteora is awesome. If you have the interest then definitely bite the bullet and make it happen. Yes, it’s a long day but unforgettable.

Hello Dave,

I will be in Athen from Frankfurt in end of June, my flight landing in Athens @ 9:40PM. Do you think I will have enough time to catch a metro going to Monastiraki? Not sure how long the custom, and how far walking to buy a ticket and find metro. I believe the last metro train from the airport is at 11:30PM. Any tip and information is appreciated.

Yes, you should have plenty of time. It’s a short walk from the arrival terminal to the metro station (2 minutes). Just follow the signs and buy ticket from the electronic kiosk. Then down the stairs to the train. If your plane is late and you do miss the last train then buses run 24 hours a day.

Hi Dave, love your site! Interested in your recommendation to hire a tour guide at the gates of the Acropolis. Do you negotiate a price for the tour or is it a set price?

Generally, the price is set but there is a little room for negotiation (sometimes).

Love your website! My brother used it to plan his honeymoon, now I’m planning a girls’ trip for October. Our initial itinerary: Day 1: Leave US Day 2: Arrive in Athens Day 3: Athens Day 4: Ferry to Milos Day 5: Milos Day 6: Milos Day 7: Ferry to Santorini Day 8: Santorini Day 9: Santorini Day 10: Santorini/ Fly back to Athens Day 11: Fly home Any concerns with that itinerary? Also, since I haven’t booked flights yet, does it matters if the weekend we’re in Greece is in Athens or Santorini. I don’t love crowds, and hopefully going in early October will help that. But is there any concern that things will be closed or extra busy at either location? Sarah

Looks like a great itinerary. Milos will be quiet (but still mostly open). Athens and Santorini will be busy, but not crazy busy.

Hi Santorini Dave, this is the best website on Greece by a wide margin. You’re a legend.

Would you recommend doing a tour of the Acropolis or is that something we can do on our own? Is it easy to get around and see?

I would recommend doing it with a small tour. It’s a totally different experience doing it on your own or doing it with a tour guide. It’s certainly easy to walk around the grounds on your own and look at the buildings (the Acropolis does not cover a large area). But unless you’re a Greek history major (with some art history) 90% of the sights and significance will be lost on you. Even with a detailed book it’s hard to match the insight and intimacy of a good tour guide. As I say, they seem like the same experience, but with a guide and on your own – you might as well be visiting a different attraction.

Hi Dave, I am travelling to Athens, Santorini and Crete this September. I just found out that I am pregnant and I want to make sure I can eat the food (for example: pregnant women can only eat cooked meat and milk products that are pasteurized). Do you know if most cheese over there is made of pasteurized milk? It would be a shame to not be able to eat cheese since it is one of the main ingredients in sallads etc. Do you think “gyros” will be fine ? I think the meat is well cooked (not red), but not sure about hygiene. Any information you have would be much appreciated. Thanks! Lynn

All feta in Greece is pasteurized. The soft goat cheese that you might get at a farm-style restaurant is more likely to be unpasteurized.

The blog is awesome. Thank you for all the suggestions. We are a group of 6 travelling to athens for 3 days in August. We were planning to take the hop-on hop-off bus with a 24 hour validity. Is it worth it or should be instead pick our locations and go there by Metro?

Thanks in Advance. Cheers Vaibhav

Personally, I would not do the hop on hop off bus tours. Most of the top sights in Athens are in the Plaka area and easy to get between on foot (actually the bus will not go near many of them). Most of the hop on/hop off tours do go by the Archaeological Museum which is great and not close to the other sights (but it’s also easy to get to by metro, taxi, or a 30 minute walk). Some tours go by the beaches and Piraeus but I wouldn’t waste time driving out to either in a bus. With only 3 days stick to the central area.

What restaurants do you recommend to eat at when in Athens?

Psaras Taverna in the Plaka is my favorite. Outdoor tables spill down the steps and onto the sidewalk. Great atmosphere, great food. The best restaurant with views of the Acropolis in Athens is Strofi in Koukaki.

My return flight from Santorini stops at Athens for 4 1/2 hours. We get to Athens for 7:30am and my flight leaves at noon. Do you think it’s enough time to go to see the Acropolis and Parthenon in Athens?

Thanks, Julie

It’s possible but there’s some risk too. Assuming you have some luggage you’d have to store that at the airport (arrivals level, turn left out of baggage claim) which will take a few minutes. Let’s say you’re in a taxi by 8pm you could be to the Acropolis by 8:40 if traffic isn’t bad (Saturday and Sunday have lighter traffic). If you hurried you could do a super-quick tour of the sight in 30 minutes. Back in a taxi by 9:30 and back to the airport by 10:15 and you’re ok. But anything goes wrong and you don’t have much buffer room. And also the question of whether you have to check in for your onward flight, check baggage, or can you check in remotely on your phone and only have carry-on. I’m tempted to say, if your flight arrives on time then go for it, but just know you are taking some risk of missing your flight. But heh, the Acropolis – it’s awesome.

I land in Athens at 4pm on Thursday, 8/31. I’m meeting friends in Mykonos Saturday 9/2 at 2pm, where I will stay until 9/8.

My questions is, how would you maximize the time in between? My 2 options are either stay in Athens Thursday night, and all day Friday. Or to fly to Santorini on Aegean as soon as I land, and then ferry over to Mykonos on Saturday. Which do you think would be the better option in this case?

Thanks so much for your help. Your site is so incredibly informative.

It depends on two things: First, do you have a preference for Athens or Santorini (I’m guessing not or you wouldn’t be asking). I think most people would prefer spending time in Santorini but Athens has plenty of great historical sights. And second, is there an Athens to Santorini flight you can get on Thursday afternoon. If not then I’d just stick with Athens and catch a morning ferry on the Saturday.

Hi Dave – thanks for putting together all of your knowledge here, it’s been super useful. I am going to have a 5 hour layover at the Athens airport and I was wondering how best to use that time. I will have a few days in Athens later, so I was thinking of taking a taxi to one of the smaller coastal towns for a meal. Do you have any recommendations? Thanks! Heather

Glyfada is a trendy (and very Greek) beach town with lots of cafes and restaurants. It’s 30 minutes by taxi from the airport. That’s probably your best bet.

We have four days. I can’t decide between a day trip to Cape Sounio, Corinth, or Delphi. We don’t mind walking or hiking, and each of these seems to have their attraction. Your suggestions? Rachael Sharp

My favorite day trip from Athens is Nafplio (the 3-hour food and walking tour is excellent), second is Delphi, Cape Sounio third.

My sister and I will be travelling to Santorini, Mykonos and Athens this September. We fly in to Santorini quite late (9:00pm) for four nights (three full days). We have booked our accommodation in Santorini, but nowhere else at this stage. Our plan was to then catch a ferry to Mykonos and stay there for three nights (two full days), followed by a 9:00am flight to Athens for one night. We fly to London at 7:00pm the following night, so this would give us nearly two full days in Athens.

After researching flight options, I’ve realised that we could also catch a flight from Mykonos to Athens at 9:00am on the day we fly back to London. This would allow us to spend an extra night on Santorini or Mykonos and leave us with enough time in Athens (arriving 10:00am, departing 7:00pm) to see the Acropolis and Parthenon. I saw in one of your previous comments that it’s possible to store your luggage at Athens Airport.

My question is whether or not you would recommend spending the additional night on either Santorini or Mykonos? If so, which one – 5 nights (4 days) on Santorini and 3 nights (2 days) on Mykonos, or 4 nights on each? Or do you think it would be better to stick with our original plan and stay overnight in Athens? We’d really just be happy to visit the Acropolis and Parthenon, but I’d be interested to know if you would suggest spending the extra time in Athens to do the 5-hour Athens/Acropolis/Museum tour you’ve recommended above.

Thanks in advance for your help and for providing this extremely helpful guide!

Best wishes, Nick

I love Athens so having almost two full days there sounds just right (and Athens is great in the evening when the Plaka restaurants are bursting out onto the sidewalk and there’s a great atmosphere). That said, for most tourists, I think they would enjoy the extra day more on the islands than in the city. If you don’t mind a bit of grit and grime (and lots of graffiti) then spend the time in Athens. If you’re fine with a quick trip through the top sights of Athens then spend that extra day in Santorini.

Hey Dave, My wife and I will be in Athens in mid June, and we were wondering if its possible to tour the Acropolis and museum with an audio guide (we did something similar in Rome and Pompeii in Italy). Or would you definitely recommend having a person guide us?

Thanks! Marc

Personally, I like a real-person guide so would definitely recommend going that way.

I and my partner are planning for a honeymoon in November this year. Our dates are from November 6 to November 15. Is it a good time to travel in November? Jinal Shah

Athens is great in early November. Still warmish weather with little rain. Tourist spots are quieter than summer but everything is open year-round. Local culture feels much more vibrant outside of the tourist high season from May to October.

Hi Dave – our family of 4 are travelling to Santorini (from Australia) in July to attend my brothers wedding. Our return flights have been booked such that we will have approx. 6 hours in Athens, as our flight arrives from Santorini at 10.30am Thurs 6/7 and departs Athens at 6pm (to Dubai). Rather than spending this time hanging out at the airport, is there anything in particular that you suggest that we do? Our 2 daughters are aged 11 and 8, and I was thinking that we hop on a train / bus and travel to downtown Athens for some exploring. However, very happy to be guided by you. Thanks for such a great travel site. Lydia

The highlight of Athens is the Acropolis and Parthenon. I would hop in a taxi and go straight to the Acropolis (ask the driver to drop you as close as possible). A tour guide of the Acropolis is very much worth getting. You can book these in advance or chance finding one at the entrance gate. Afterwards either head down the north side of the Acropolis to the Plaka to wander the narrow streets and get lunch. Or go down to the south side and go to the excellent Acropolis Museum. You’ll probably want to be in a taxi heading back to the airport by 3:15pm. There’s luggage storage at the Athens Airport – when you exit arrivals/customs turn left and go all the way to the end.

Hi Dave, hoping for your valuable input. My friend and I are planning to visit Greece and Italy on August 31st til September 10th. I have been hearing that not much could be done in Athens, thus was thinking of the following itinerary below (I know you might not be able to comment on Italy, but the Greece part would definitely help me).

Thurs – arrive early morning in Athens and spend the day around Athens Friday – Take a flight/ferry to Mykonos Saturday – Mykonos Sunday – Mykonos to Santorini Monday – Santorini Tuesday – take a flight from Santorini to Florence/Rome

Is it even worth it to have both Mykonos and Santorini on our itinerary, or we can just choose one?

Reason why we packed everything together is it’s our first time to visit Greece and may possibly be a long time before we come back.

That sounds like a fine itinerary. But if you’re really not interested in Athens you could save time by flying Italy to Mykonos, ferry to Santorini, fly Santorini to Italy. Mykonos and Santorini are very different so it’s not unreasonable to include both.

Dave: My family and I will be in Athens for 2 and half days, we land on saturday early evening and depart for Crete Tuesday afternoon. I have looked through your suggestions for Athens and plan to see the acropolis, acropolis museum, archeological museum, and the central market or maybe the Sunday market? Can you hire a guide at the acropolis for an informational tour or do you need to book in advance? If you can book there is that advisable and do you pay the guide’s entrance fee too? Which day would you go? Is the acropolis museum open every day? We will be there in two weeks so it will be mid march. We’d like to do more than wander at the acropolis, and feel a guide would be helpful. What do you suggest, we’d also like to avoid the most crowded days, is there a way to predict when it’s the busiest? Thanks Carla

Yes, there should be tour guides at the main gates of the Acropolis. They’re very good and definitely worth getting. You can arrange in advance if having a guide is a must.

Dave, We are planing our trip to Athens, Santorini, and Crete in July 21017. We are planing to rent a car for Santorini and Crete. Would you suggest to book car a head of time or at time of arrival? And what are best rental places on Crete and Santorini? Nataliya

Booking after you arrive will be fine 95% of the time. There are rental companies on every street and they’re all the same: friendly, a little shady, but all’s good in the end. One exception is if you are flying into Santorini it’s often easier to have a rental car reserved for airport pickup so you don’t have to queue for a taxi. More car rental info here .

Hi Dave, we are arriving to Athens at 2 am, our hotel is located in the Syntagma square, two blocks away from the bus station, is it safe to take the bus from the airport at 3 am? or should we take a taxi for sure? Thanks! Can´t stop reading your blog!

The bus itself is certainly safe. You might feel a little anxious as you walk to your hotel from the bus stop. I consider this a safe area but if you take a wrong turn or two you might be thinking, I wish we just took a taxi. So, I’d personally feel fine busing and walking but if you want easy and no-worries then the taxi is the way to go.

Dave, Do you know anything about the Red Bicycle in Santorini?

Lee K Richman

Great little place in Oia. Nice patio and views. Good food but expensive – as most places with a view are. Make reservations.

Are there any bad areas that I need to be aware of in Athens? My hotel is located in the Syntagma Square and the markets and Acropolis are like 20 minutes walking distance. Ashley

Syntagma is a safe busy area and walking between it and the Plaka, Acropolis, or Monastiraki areas is generally fine, day or night. The main artery between Syntagma and Monastiraki is Ermou. Anything south of here feels safe. As you move north of Ermou you’ll encounter areas that feel sketchy. It’s not that they’re that dangerous but, especially as night falls, they’re not an area you want to wander about. If you want to go to the Athens central market (which is to the north) then walk Ermou to Athinas and turn right.

Hi Dave, We are getting ready for our trip to Greece and will be starting in Athens, later Mykonos, Santorini and coming back to Athens for one night and fly home the following morning. We are flying from Santorini to Athens – we decided it’s a better option that taking a ferry back – but it seems the transportation from the airport to the hotel (in Piraeus) that night and morning after would add up to 120 Euros. We are thinking renting a car at the airport that night and returning it the following morning might be a cheaper option. What are you thoughts? Is it safe and easy to drive in Athens? The car rental seems to cost 40 euros and the parking would be 14. What should we be aware if we decided to go with a car rental instead of the private shuttle offered by the hotel. Thanks in advance!! PS: Love your blog!!

Natalia Rios

If cost is a concern then take the X96 bus from the airport to Piraeus for about 3€. Metro train requires a change at Monastiraki station and costs a little bit more – but is more pleasant.

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• Brochure Price: US$ 1,082
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• Total Price from: US$ 920
• May 25 Only 6 seats left
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Balkan Explorer

• Activities Mountains & Local culture
• Transport Coach
• Age Range 10-99 yrs
• Brochure Price: US$ 3,475
• Special Deal (32%): - US$ 1,127
• Total Price from: US$ 2,348
• Jun 08 Only 3 seats left
• Jun 23 10+ seats left

• Starts Mykonos, Greece

Sail Greece: Mykonos to Santorini

• Accommodation Hotel & Yacht Cabin
• Transport Boat, Yacht, Taxi & Bus
• Special Deal (3%): - US$ 43
• Total Price from: US$ 1,637
• May 21 Only 4 seats left
• May 25 Only 3 seats left

Greece Eco Tour Reviews

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Athens Eco Tours

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Athens Eco Tours - All You Need to Know BEFORE You Go (2024)

Athens Eco Tours

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Athens Eco Tours - All You Need to Know BEFORE You Go (2024) - Tripadvisor

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The Best Eco Tours in Greece

Looking for a terrific eco-tour for your next trip? We've thoroughly researched a variety of ecological, environmental, and nature tours offered by highly reviewed tour companies, providing you with an incredible opportunity to experience the natural wonders of Greece. These eco-conscious tours allow you to connect with nature, witness awe-inspiring landscapes, and contribute to the preservation of our environment. With our careful evaluation of factors such as guest ratings, destinations, and activities, you can embark on a thrilling adventure. It's time to embark on an eco tour that will leave you in awe!

From sailing to hiking to horseback riding, this country offers something for everyone. Hiking trails are everywhere, as are mountain biking tracks, horseback riding trails, and more. Sailing and boating are very popular, whether for just a few hours or multi-day trips. And don't miss out on a great kayaking or canoeing trip, either. Canyoning is very popular, too. Or, if you're looking for something a bit more relaxing, you can take a trip to see the national parks, scenic islands, and mountains in a casual way with scenic viewpoints and wine tasting along the way, too. A few of the most popular places for getting out into nature are Olympus national park, the islands such as Santorini, Mykonos, and Naxos, or on Crete where there's plenty of room to explore.

• Corfu Trail Walking - North and South 15 Days, $2490.00
• Mt. Olympus Hiking Adventure - Trekking in Greece ( 3 Days ) 3 Days, $294.44
• Walking in Crete 8 Days, $1480.00

What are eco tours like in Greece?

Here are the important factors:

• 49 trip options analyzed
• $195 average price per day (USD)
• 3 to 17 days in length
• 4.76 of 5 average rating
• 15 people or less on average

You'll be surprised at the array of eco tours in Greece, as there is something for everyone. It's no wonder that visitors can't get enough of these tours, boasting an impressive average guest rating of 4.76 out of 5 stars. Picture yourself joining a group of like-minded adventurers, with an average maximum size of 15 people, ensuring a fantastic blend of social and personalized experiences. The average tour length spans 8 days, with tours ranging from 3 to 17 days long. Regarding physical activity , the tours are categorized as easy, moderate, serious, and relaxing, with the majority being easy. With our thorough analysis of 49 eco tours, we've found the best. So rest assured that Greece has something to captivate every kind of traveler.

(All tour prices are in US Dollars before taxes, and come from a base price that is reported by TourRadar. Peak season prices can vary significantly, particularly in destinations where seasonal travel fluctuates dramatically.)

So, let's get to it and see...

The 10 Best Eco Tours in Greece

Corfu trail walking - north and south.

• On Sale: 15% Off See Prices
• Great Value: the daily price is lower than average for eco tours.

This 15-day voyage is ideal for guests age 16 to 85. And priced at only $141 per day, it's a great value, too. Experience the excitment of hiking, sightseeing, mountain hikes, and coastal walks on your journey. This trip takes you on an adventure to 15 destinations, including Agios Georgios, Prinilas, Agros, and Agios Athanasios. You'll start and end this amazing trip in Corfu. It's offered by Explore! , a very popular company with rave reviews and knowledgeable guides. Act fast to take advantage of the current sale.

• Hiking & Trekking
• Sightseeing
• Walking Tour
• Mountain Hikes
• Coastal Walks
• Attraction-Based Hikes

Mt. Olympus Hiking Adventure - Trekking in Greece ( 3 Days )

Priced at just $98 per day, this terrific 3-day voyage is ideal for guests age 14 to 65. You'll create amazing memories while experiencing hiking and mountain hikes. Litochoro will be both the start and end of your journey. Organized by the reputable Greek Adventure , this is one of the best tours on this list.

Walking in Crete

Check out this incredible voyage that has received a 4.5 out of 5 rating from previous guests. Get ready to fully embrace hiking, mountain hikes, and coastal walks. With a duration of 8 days, this journey ensures an intimate group size of 16 people, and is good for guests age 16 to 85. Along the way, this journey encompasses 7 destinations, including Loutro, Hora Sfakion, Zaros, and Crete. Your journey will begin in Chania and end in Heraklion. This fantastic option, organized by Explore! , presents an unbeatable value at just $157 per day. It's also on sale right now!

Secret Cyclades: Hiking Holidays on Kythnos island

• High Quality: guest ratings are higher than average.

Spanning over 5 days, this voyage has a maximum size of 16 individuals. Welcoming guests age 8 to 89, it is organized by Trails Beyond , a very popular company with plenty of great reviews. You'll enjoy hiking and coastal walks. Athens will be the beginning and end of your trip. You'll love the emphasis on beaches and family-friendly activities, too. Available at an unbeatable price of only $136 per day, this option also has a rating of 4.9 out of 5 stars from previous guests.

Greek Cruise and Island Walking

Here's your chance to take off on an exceptional trip that has garnered a 4.7 out of 5 rating. On this amazing journey, you'll experience sailing and hiking. With a duration of 8 days, this jouney will have 16 participants, and it warmly welcomes guests age 16 to 85. Expertly organized by Explore! , this amazing trip is an incredible value at just $142 per day. Act fast to take advantage of the current sale.

Walking the Corfu Trail (South)

This memorable trip is offered by Explore! which has received plenty of positive reviews. The trip itself has a guest rating of 4.3 out of 5 stars, and is priced affordably at $132 per day. Uncover the beauty of 6 destinations on this itinerary, with highlights such as Lefkimmi, Benitses, Pelekas, and Kavos. Your journey will begin in Corfu and end in Liapades. Guests on this trip get to partake in hiking and coastal walks. The maximum group size is 16 people, welcoming guests age 16 to 85. Don't miss out on this limited-time sale.

Walking the Corfu Trail (North)

Set off on an extraordinary journey that has been awarded a 4.6 out of 5 stars by previous guests. Hiking and coastal walks are just a few of the activities on this terrific journey. With a duration of 8 days, this journey offers an intimate group setting, accommodating 16 individuals, while extending a warm welcome to guests age 16 and older. Traverse through 9 enchanting destinations, with Spartilas, Corfu, Agios Georgios, and Pagoi among the must-see stops along the route. Begin your trip in Liapades and complete it with a memorable finale in Corfu. Brought to you by Explore! , this exceptional deal is an incredible steal at a mere $147 per day. It's also on sale right now!

Corfu Trail Hiking Highlights

With this option you can experience an unparalleled journey for 7 unforgettable days. It ensures an intimate group setting with 15 participants at most. You'll start and end this amazing trip in Corfu. G Adventures , the organizer of this journey, extends a warm invitation to guests guests age 12 to 90. Guests are treated to unforgettable hiking and coastal walks experiences. This extraordinary opportunity offers exceptional value at only $164 per day.

Hiking Zagori & Meteora

• On Sale: 10% Off See Prices

This fantastic trip has a rating of 4.9 out of 5 stars. Experience the excitment of hiking and mountain hikes on your journey. Experience a trip that takes you to 7 remarkable destinations, including Vikos National Park, Papingo, Ioannina, and Vradeto. Athens will be both the start and end of your journey. Lasting 7 days, the maximum group size is 16 people, and it's good for guests age 8 to 88. Organized by Trails Beyond , this is a great deal because it's only $172 per day.

Tour of Meteora & Albania from Corfu

With a stellar 5 out of 5 rating, this extraordinary voyage, visiting Greece and Albania, is the perfect choice. You're in for an epic adventure with a strong emphasis on local culture and family-friendly activities. Explore 7 incredible locations on this trip, including Ksamil, Igoumenitsa, Kalabaka, and Gjirokastra. Your adventure starts and ends in Corfu. You'll create amazing memories while experiencing camping and mountain hikes. Spanning across 3 days, the voyage accommodates 10 individuals, and is suitable for guests age 2 to 90. Offered by Choose Balkans , this remarkable voyage is priced at just $189 per day. Don't miss out on this incredible experience.

• In-depth Cultural

See also The Best Family-Friendly Tours to Greece , The Best Hiking & Trekking Tours in Greece , The Best Historical Tours in Greece , The Best 10-Day Tours in Greece , The Best One Week (7-Day) Tours in Greece , The Best 3-Day Tours in Greece , The Best 2-Week Tours in Greece , The Best Bicycle Tours in Greece , Tours for Outdoor and Nature Lovers in Greece , The Best Christmas & New Years Tours in Greece , The Best Coach Bus Tours in Greece , The Best Adventure Tours to Greece , The Best Cruise Tours and Packages in Greece , The Best Sightseeing Tours in Greece , The Best Cultural Tours in Greece , The Best Vineyard & Wine Tours in Greece , The Best Food and Culinary Tours in Greece , The Best Romantic Tours for Couples in Greece , The Best Self Drive Tours in Greece , The Best Walking Tours in Greece , The Best Honeymoon Tours in Greece , The Best Tours Under $1000 in Greece , The Best Luxury Tours to Greece , The Best Budget Tours to Greece , The Best Tours for Seniors to Greece , The Best Contiki Tours to Greece , or The Best G Adventures Tours to Greece for more tour ideas. With so many options, there's a guided tour or vacation package for every type of traveler.

Also, if you're departing from a specific destination, see The Best 3-Day Tours from Athens , The Best One-Week (7-Day) Tours from Athens , The Best One-Week (7-Day) Tours from Corfu , The Best One-Week (7-Day) Tours from Mykonos , The Best One-Week (7-Day) Tours from Chania , The Best One-Week (7-Day) Tours from Heraklion , The Best One-Week (7-Day) Tours from Alimos , The Best One-Week (7-Day) Tours from Thessaloniki , The Best One-Week (7-Day) Tours from Milos , The Best 10-Day Tours from Athens , or The Best 2-Week Tours from Athens for more package tour options.

How much do Eco Tours in Greece cost?

Travelers to Greece will have a large number of terrific options for eco tours at a variety of great prices. The price of eco tours here can vary by type, destinations, length, and travel style. Based on thorough data from 49 eco tours, their average daily price is a very reasonable $195 per day. If you're interested in more information about tours here, see our guide to tour prices in Greece .

And for more information on Greece, see Greece Travel Costs and Greece Hotel Costs .

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Travel to Greece and the Greek islands with EcoGreece for an outdoor adventure tour you will never forget.

EcoGreece offers active Greek tours that include hiking tours, diving tours, sailing tours and horseback riding tours

Hike through the wondrous mountains and gorges of Crete. Ride by Horseback into small Greek villages where time seems to stand still. Scuba dive in the turquoise Aegean Sea. Sail with your friends to your favorite Greek Island on a chartered yacht. EcoGreece offers unique tours of Greece for the active traveler.

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Our Greek guides and skippers have spent years exploring the back roads, trails and seas of Greece and they are ready to take you on an adventurous journey to places that aren't easy to find on the map. Let EcoGreece show you our part of the world.

EcoGreece specializes in Eco Tourism

EcoGreece emphasizes adventure travel, ecology, and cultural awareness. Our hiking tours, sailing tours and horseback riding tours offer rewarding travel adventures of Greece that are designed to leave only footprints and carry out memories.

For an active vacation that will rejuvenate your senses, let EcoGreece be your guide to Greece and Crete.

EcoGreece believes that the journey should be as gratifying as the destination

Climb ancient stairs in Athens. Travel through the natural backcountry of Crete. View spectacular sunsets on the Aegean Sea. Discover Greece and Crete's pristine beaches. Become awestruck by varied landscapes of this sometimes rugged, sometimes peaceful land. Listen to different sounds of nature. Savor delicious Greek and Cretan foods. Meet the Greek and Cretan people who are proud, friendly and easygoing. The list is endless and the country utterly magical.

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