Athens: Jingle Bells Segway Tour

If you’re visiting Athens during the holiday season, you’ll find this Jingle Bells Segway Tour a cheerful way to explore the city’s winter magic. While I haven’t personally joined this tour, I’ve seen plenty of reviews and details that make it sound like a memorable holiday experience. Whether you’re a Segway enthusiast or just looking for a unique way to see Athens, this tour combines the city’s most famous sights with a joyful seasonal vibe.

What really draws us to this experience are two things – first, how the festive decorations and lights transform Athens into a Christmas wonderland, and second, the opportunity to cover a lot of ground on a Segway without tiring out. However, a quick heads-up: if you’re pregnant or prefer walking tours, this might not be the best fit. Overall, it’s perfect for those wanting a lively, fun shortcut to see Athens’s top landmarks while soaking in the holiday cheer.

Key Points

• Festive Atmosphere: Enjoy Athens decorated for Christmas, with twinkling lights and seasonal displays.
• Comprehensive Sights: Visit key landmarks like Syntagma Square, the Odeon of Herodes Atticus, and the Panathenaic Stadium.
• Fun Mode of Transport: Glide effortlessly on a Segway, which makes sightseeing both easy and enjoyable.
• Small Group Experience: Limited to 8 participants for a more personalized feel.
• Expert Guides: Tours are led by guides speaking multiple languages, including English, Spanish, Hebrew, and German.
• Flexible Cancellation: Cancel up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund, keeping your plans adaptable.

You can check availability for your dates here:

An In-Depth Look at the Tour Experience

Starting Point and First Impressions

The tour kicks off at Eschinou 9, a central location that’s easy to reach and a good launch pad into Athens’s festive streets. From there, the guide introduces you to the basics of riding a Segway if you’re new, setting a relaxed, friendly tone. Once everyone’s comfortable, the real fun begins.

Exploring the Festive Streets

As you glide through Athens, you’ll instantly notice how the city transforms during the holiday season. The streets are decked out with lights, ornaments, and seasonal displays, turning familiar landmarks into festive photo ops. We loved the way the lights shimmered and how the holiday spirit made even well-known spots feel fresh.

Landmark Highlights

Each stop on the itinerary offers something special, blending sightseeing with the holiday ambiance. For example:

• Makrygianni: A quick scenic ride here offers views of the Acropolis beyond the decorated streets. The guide might stop for photos or a brief guide, making it easier to appreciate the area’s history amid the sparkle.

• Odeon of Herodes Atticus: This ancient amphitheater, usually a grand relic of history, feels like part of a holiday stage, lit up and lively. The guide’s commentary adds context, making it more meaningful.

• Areopagus and Pnyx: These historic hilltops provide some of the best panoramic views of the city, especially stunning when the city is lit up at night. The tour typically includes photo stops here, which many reviewers find highlight the experience.

• Thiseio and Kerameikos: Less crowded, these neighborhoods offer scenic views and a chance to soak in the local vibe, all while riding a Segway with ease.

• Monastiraki and Syntagma Square: These are the holiday hotspots, bustling with shoppers and decorated for Christmas. Syntagma, in particular, is a festive spectacle, with the square transformed into a kind of Christmas paradise. You can expect to see beautifully lit trees and festive displays, making it ideal for holiday photos.

• National Garden and Panathenaic Stadium: The lush greenery contrasted with holiday lights makes for a relaxing change of pace. The stadium, with its white marble exterior, is striking against the seasonal backdrop, and the views from higher points are often praised for their beauty.

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Tour Duration and Group Size

Spanning about 3 hours, this tour is a comfortably-paced way to see a lot without feeling rushed. The group size is limited to 8, which means fewer crowds and more personalized attention from the guide. That’s especially helpful if you’re unfamiliar with Segways or if you want some insider tips.

The Ride and Technical Details

Most reviews mention the ease of riding the Segway, especially with the guide’s clear instructions. The rides vary in length — from 5-minute quick cruises to longer stretches around key landmarks (up to 30-minute rides). The Segway itself is a fun, effortless mode of transport that allows you to enjoy the sights without tiring out.

What You’ll Love

The stunning views from elevated spots like Pnyx and Areopagus are a highlight, giving a sense of the city’s layout and holiday sparkle. The guide’s commentary often adds historical tidbits, making the experience both fun and informative. Plus, the festive atmosphere makes the ride feel special — lights, decorations, and the cheerful holiday mood are in the air.

Possible Drawbacks or Considerations

Since the tour involves riding a Segway, it’s not suitable for pregnant women or those uncomfortable on this type of vehicle. Also, depending on your expectations, some might find the stops brief or wish for more time at certain landmarks. Lastly, the tour is quite active — if you prefer a laid-back experience or walking, this might feel a bit fast-paced.

Is It Worth the Price?

Considering the small group format, guided commentary, and the festive experience, many find this tour offers good value. It’s not just a sightseeing ride — it’s a holiday celebration, and the ability to see many landmarks quickly makes it efficient. Plus, the capacity to cancel for a full refund if plans change adds flexibility.

The Bottom Line: Who Should Consider This Tour?

This Jingle Bells Segway Tour is a delightful choice for travelers who love a bit of adventure and want to experience Athens uniquely during Christmas time. It’s especially suited for those eager to see multiple landmarks in a short period, enjoy the city’s holiday decorations, and have some fun on a Segway. If you’re with a partner, friends, or even solo (the small groups foster a friendly vibe), you’ll likely enjoy the lively atmosphere and scenic views.

However, if you prefer a more relaxed, in-depth exploration of specific sites or aren’t comfortable on a Segway, you might want to look elsewhere. Pregnant travelers or those with mobility issues should also consider other options, as this tour isn’t suitable for them.

Frequently Asked Questions

Is this tour suitable for children?
While not specifically tailored for kids, some teenagers comfortable on a Segway could enjoy it. The focus is on sightseeing and fun, but always check with the provider for age restrictions.

How long is each stop?
Stops vary from about 5 to 30 minutes. They include photo opportunities, brief visits, guided commentary, and scenic views. The pace is designed to keep the tour engaging without rushing.

Do I need previous Segway experience?
Nope. The guides provide instructions, and most people find the Segway easy to learn. It’s a relaxed way to cover a lot of ground.

Can I cancel this tour?
Yes, you can cancel up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund, making it flexible if your plans change.

What languages are offered?
Guides speak English, Spanish, Hebrew, and German, ensuring a variety of options for travelers.

Is the tour suitable for seniors?
If they’re comfortable on a Segway, yes. But if mobility or balance is an issue, it might not be ideal.

What should I wear?
Comfortable shoes and dress for the weather. Since it’s outdoor, check the forecast and layer accordingly.

Are there any safety precautions?
Guides give safety instructions, and helmets are typically provided. Follow their advice, and you’ll be fine.

In the end, if your idea of holiday fun involves bright lights, scenic overlooks, and a playful way to see Athens’s landmarks, this tour offers a cheerful and efficient way to do just that. It’s a lively, photo-friendly experience that captures the spirit of Athens in December — perfect for those who want a bit of adventure amid their holiday sightseeing.

You can check availability for your dates here: