The NightCrawlers | Athens Bar Hopping | Pub Crawl

If you’re thinking about adding a fun, social experience to your Athens adventure, this pub crawl by The NightCrawlers could be just what you need. It’s designed for those who want to mingle, enjoy local drinks, and explore some of the city’s best nighttime spots—all in a single evening. From the perspective of honest reviews and detailed info, this tour has a few standout perks and a couple of points to consider.

What we really like about this experience is the personalized touch of a private tour, which means you’ll get a more tailored vibe than a big group. Plus, the complimentary shots at each bar are a nice touch that adds a little extra fun without breaking the bank. On the downside, the duration and bar choices might not meet everyone’s expectations, especially if you’re used to more extensive pub crawls or different types of venues.

This tour is best suited for lively travelers who enjoy socializing over drinks, love discovering local hotspots, and don’t mind a night that might be a little loud or crowded as the night progresses. If you’re in Athens and want a relaxed, friendly way to meet people and experience the city after dark, this could be a good pick. Just keep in mind the specific stops and the fact that guide participation varies, which some reviews mention as a mixed experience.

Key Points

• Personalized Experience: Since it’s a private tour, you get a more tailored night out.
• Great for Social Travelers: The tour encourages mingling through games, drinks, and relaxed atmospheres.
• Complimentary Shots Included: Each bar offers a free shot, adding fun and value.
• Limited Venue Variety: The stops are mainly bars and a club, which might not suit those looking for more diverse nightlife.
• Duration & Timing: Starts at 9:00 pm, lasting about 3 to 5 hours—perfect for an evening out.
• Price Point: At around $19, it’s a budget-friendly way to explore Athens after dark.

A Detailed Look at the Pub Crawl Experience

Starting Point and Overall Atmosphere

The tour kicks off at Pl. Monastirakiou, a lively central square known for its vibrant street life and easy access to public transport. Meeting here makes it convenient to hop straight into the night without extra hassle. The atmosphere tends to be friendly and relaxed, which is ideal if you’re the kind of traveler who enjoys socializing with fellow travelers and locals alike.

First Stop: Favorita – Greek Island Style Magic

The first bar, Favorita, sets the tone for the evening. It’s described as a Greek island-themed spot, which sounds like an inviting way to start your night. The owner greets everyone with a shot, which is a nice touch that immediately breaks the ice. Reviewers mention that it’s a great place to get to know your group, as it’s not overly crowded at the start, making conversation easier.

Expect to sample some unique shots and cocktails here. The setting is more laid-back, giving you a chance to relax, chat, and enjoy the vibe. This stop lasts about an hour, giving plenty of time to settle in and get comfortable.

Second Stop: Dos Gardenias – Latin Flair and Dancing

Next, the tour moves to Dos Gardenias, a Latin-inspired bar with a touch of elegance and a dance-focused element. A dance instructor is available, which gives this stop a lively, fun feel. You’ll probably find yourself tapping your feet or trying a salsa step, adding a playful element to the night.

While some reviews mention that this is a less crowded spot, it’s appreciated for its ambiance. The inclusion of a dancing instructor means you can learn a move or two, even if you’re not a seasoned dancer. The review from a guest highlights that the bar isn’t usually packed, which makes it easier to enjoy a conversation while still soaking in the lively music.

Third Stop: Backdoor Athens – Live Shows and Karaoke

The final venue is Backdoor Athens, an eclectic spot where the tour often coincides with live shows or karaoke nights. This makes it a fun way to end the night, especially if you’re into live music or singing your favorite tune. The atmosphere is described as lively, but some reviews note it can get quite loud, which might be a downside if you prefer mellow venues.

This stop lasts about two hours and includes free entry and skipping the lines, which adds ease, especially during busy nights. The place tends to attract a mixed crowd, and the reviews suggest that it can sometimes feel a little like a club, depending on the night.

What’s Included and What to Expect

The value of this tour largely hinges on the free shots at each bar, skip-the-line entry, and cocktail discounts. These perks allow you to enjoy the night without worrying about cover charges or overly inflated drink prices, especially in popular areas of Athens.

However, it’s important to note that drinks are not covered beyond the free shots. Several reviews mention that guests paid for their own drinks, which is typical but worth keeping in mind. The host’s role is more to facilitate movement and ensure the pace, rather than to be overly involved in social activities.

The Reality of the Guide’s Role

Some reviews express mixed feelings about guide participation. While many appreciated the friendliness and knowledge of the guides, others felt they were less engaged, especially at the last stop. For example, a reviewer mentioned that the guides left early and did not participate in drinking games, which could impact the overall social energy for some.

On the flip side, many other guests praised the guides’ friendliness and their local knowledge, which helped enhance the experience. If you’re someone who enjoys a guide actively participating, it’s good to keep in mind that their involvement might vary.

Timing and Duration

Starting at 9:00 pm, the tour typically lasts between 3 to 5 hours. This gives you a nice window to enjoy a relaxed evening—enough time to explore several venues without feeling rushed. The last stop usually ends around 1:00 am, giving you time to continue your night on your own if you wish.

Price and Value

At roughly $19 per person, this pub crawl is quite affordable considering what’s included—free shots, skip-the-line entrance, and discounts. For those on a budget, it offers a fun way to experience Athens nightlife without deep-pocketed bar tabs. The reviews reflect satisfaction with the value, especially for solo travelers or small groups looking to meet new people.

Who Should Consider This Tour?

This experience suits travelers who enjoy social atmospheres, like meeting new people, and prefer venues that are lively but not overly crowded. It’s ideal for those who want a relaxed yet energetic night out, with the added bonus of local drink tastings and the opportunity to discover some of Athens’ popular nightlife spots. However, if you’re after a more curated or quieter experience, or want to visit more diverse venues, this might feel a bit limited.

Final Thoughts: Is It Worth It?

This pub crawl by The NightCrawlers offers a straightforward, friendly way to see Athens by night. With its good mix of venues, free shots, and friendly guides, it can be a highlight of your trip if you enjoy socializing over drinks and music. The overall rating of 4.0/5 reflects its general popularity and positive experiences, though it’s clear that some guests had different expectations.

If you’re traveling solo or with a small group, and you’re comfortable with some variability in how lively or involved the guides are, this could be a fun introduction to Athens’ nightlife. The price point makes it accessible, and the stops chosen give a nice taste of local and international styles.

On the other hand, if you prefer highly curated experiences with more structured activities or more venues, you might want to look for other options. Pay attention to the reviews about guide participation and the types of venues visited, to ensure it matches your vibe.

FAQs

How long does the pub crawl last?
The tour runs approximately 3 to 5 hours, starting at 9:00 pm. The timing can vary depending on how long you stay at each venue and the group’s pace.

Are drinks included in the price?
Only the free shots are included at each stop. You’ll need to pay for any additional drinks, and prices will depend on the venue.

What’s the dress code?
Since most venues are bars and a club, casual smart attire is recommended. No specific dress code is mentioned, but dressing neat and comfortable helps.

Can I join if I’m traveling alone?
Absolutely. Many reviews mention solo travelers joining and making new friends. The social setup and friendly guides help create a welcoming atmosphere.

Are there age restrictions?
While not explicitly stated, as it involves alcohol, you’ll need to be of legal drinking age in Greece (18+).

Is transportation provided between stops?
No, the tour starts at a specific meeting point, and you are responsible for moving between venues. It’s walkable, especially in central Athens.

What happens if I arrive late or miss the start?
The meeting point and start time are fixed, so punctuality is important. If you’re late, it’s best to contact the tour provider directly, but the experience is based on the group starting together.

All in all, this pub crawl offers a relaxed, social way to get a taste of Athens’ nightlife. It’s best suited for travelers who enjoy meeting people, sampling local drinks, and exploring some lively venues—all without a hefty price tag. Keep expectations aligned with the reviews, and you’re likely to have a memorable night out.