OVERVIEW: The ancient history and sites of Athens are considered to be among the most famous in the world.
HIGHLIGHTS: Enjoy a panoramic tour past the Temple of Olympian Zeus, Hadrian's Arch, National Gardens, the National Library and the Parliament Building. Then explore the Acropolis Museum during a guided walk and free time to shop and explore in the Plaka.
NOTES: Guests must be able to walk approx 1 mile over uneven surfaces and steps. Large bags, backpacks and oversized purses are not permitted inside the Acropolis Museum; however guests can leave their belongings in the cloakroom of the museum at no charge. No cameras or video cameras are allowed in the museum.
Overview:
The highlight of this tour is a guided visit of the Acropolis Museum which honors the ancient site and its treasures. You will also have some free time to shop and explore on your own with transportation back to the ship.
Highlights:
-Panoramic tour past the Temple of Olympian Zeus, Hadrian's Arch, National Gardens, the National Library and the Parliament Building
-Acropolis Museum: Visit the rich collection of artifacts from Acropolis Hill
-Plaka: Enjoy 1 hour free time for independent exploration or shopping
Full Description:
Begin your half-day tour with a drive to Athens city center from the pier through the suburbs along Syngrou Avenue. You will see some of the most famous sites including the Temple of Olympian Zeus, the largest Corinthian style temple in Greece which took over 700 years to build. Take time to ponder Hadrian's Arch which separates the old and new Roman towns. Other sights you will see include the National Gardens, the National Library and the Parliament Building, formerly the Royal Palace.
Proceed to the Acropolis Museum for a guided tour. The monumental complex buzzes daily with the excited chatter of visitors from around the world, each eager to see the rich collection of artifacts discovered in and around the Acropolis Hill. With light, space and angular lines, the museum design and its perfect view of the Acropolis, honors the history of this ancient site and its treasures. Your guided tour concludes at the Plaka, where you'll be escorted for free time and independent exploration. You'll later meet with your guide at a designated time and place to rejoin the coach for the return to the port.
What to Bring:
-You should always take your SeaPass card (provided onboard the ship) and photo identification when in port.
-You will need Euros and/or credit cards for any purchases (foreign currencies are not accepted).
What to Wear:
-Comfortable walking shoes are strongly recommended.
-Hats and other forms of sun protection are highly recommended.
-Ladies are recommended to wear slacks or walking shorts.
Important Notes:
- Guests must be able to walk approximately 1 mile over uneven surfaces and steps.
- Walking during free time in the Plaka is at guests' discretion. If guests should miss the return coach, transportation back to the vessel is their own responsibility and at their own expense.
- Guests should be aware that large bags, backpacks and oversized purses are not permitted inside the Acropolis Museum; however guests can leave their belongings in the cloakroom of the museum at no charge. No cameras or video cameras are allowed inside the museum.
- This tour will not operate on Monday port visits due to the scheduled closure of the museum.
