OVERVIEW: Designed for guests who prefer a more leisurely visit to Athens.
HIGHLIGHTS: Enjoy a panoramic tour past Hadrian's Arch, Temple of Olympian Zeus, Constitution Square, the Tomb of Unknown Soldier, Parliament, Academy, University, and National Library. From the pedestrian zone,enjoy an exterior view and guide commentary of the Acropolis and Parthenon.At the Plaka, you'll enjoy approximately 1 ˝ hours free time for shopping.
NOTES: Guests must be able to walk approximately 1 mile over pedestrian zone (cobblestone) and steps. Walking during free time in the Plaka is at guests' discretion.
Overview:
Designed for guests who prefer a more leisurely visit to Athens, this tour includes a panoramic tour of some of the highlights, an exterior view of one of the most recognizable monuments in the world, Acropolis, as well as free time to shop on your own with transportation back to the ship.
Highlights:
- Panoramic tour past Hadrian's Arch, Temple of Olympian Zeus, Constitution Square, Tomb of Unknown Soldier, Parliament, Academy, University, and National Library
- Acropolis and Parthenon: Exterior view and guide commentary of Acropolis site from pedestrian zone
- Plaka: Enjoy approximately 1 ½ hours free time for shopping
Full Description:
Your tour begins with a city drive from Piraeus into Athens passing the main points of interest both ancient and modern as your guide provides interesting commentary. Upon arrival to the exterior pedestrian zone of the Acropolis, your guide will provide a short explanation on the Acropolis and Parthenon. From a scenic viewpoint, you can photograph the famous Acropolis, which stands in the distance on a rocky hill high above Athens. Imagine how the Parthenon must have looked thousands of years ago when it was decorated with sculptured metopes, statues and a frieze over 500 feet long.
Re-board your coach for an orientation drive of Athens from the comfort of your coach. You will see Hadrian's Arch, Temple of Olympian Zeus, Constitution Square, Tomb of the Unknown Soldier, Parliament, the Academy, the University, and the National Library. At the conclusion of the guided tour, you will enter the Plaka and follow your guide on a short walking tour of Athens's oldest and most picturesque neighborhood. The maze of cobblestone pedestrian streets is lined with shops, boutiques, souvenir stands, and flea market stalls that beckon all to enter. You will have approximately 1.5 hours to browse through the many shops and souvenir stalls or you can relax in one of the many tavernas or cafes. Meet your guide at the designated time and place to rejoin your coach for your return drive to the ship.
What to Bring:
-You should always take your SeaPass card (provided onboard the ship) and photo identification when in port
- Camera
- 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.
Important Notes:
-Guests must be able to walk approximately 1 mile over pedestrian zones and steps.
-Walking during free time in the Plaka is at guests' discretion.
-Due to new regulations, buses may be required to park some distance from the archaeological site and this may involve additional walking.
-If guests should miss the return coach, transportation back to the vessel is their own responsibility and at their own expense.