The 15 Best Tours in Athens
Athens is a city that perfectly combines ancient wonders with lively modern life. Its legendary landmarks, like the Acropolis and Parthenon, attract millions of visitors each year, but Athens offers much more than just ruins. We’ve sifted through dozens of options to bring you the best tours for different interests—whether you’re after archaeology, food, or scenic outings.
One tour we especially love is the Athens: Cape Sounion & Poseidon Temple Sunset Half-Day Trip. It’s a fantastic way to end your day, catching a breathtaking sunset over the Aegean from the iconic Poseidon Temple. If history is your passion, the Acropolis, Parthenon & Acropolis Museum Guided Tour offers a comprehensive look at Athens’ most famous archaeological sites. For those craving local flavor, the Greek Foodie Tour with Tastings takes you into Athens’ vibrant markets and tavernas, sampling authentic Greek dishes.
Below, you’ll find a curated list of the 15 best tours in Athens, each offering a distinct experience—from historic walks to scenic day trips, culinary explorations, and lively bike rides. Whatever your interests, Athens has a tour that will deepen your appreciation for this city’s layers of history and culture.
1. Athens: Cape Sounion & Poseidon Temple Sunset Half-Day Trip
This half-day trip to Cape Sounion is a favorite for its perfect mix of history, scenery, and romance. Starting from Halandri Metro Station, you’ll ride a comfortable coach for about 40 minutes to the site. The main event is exploring the Temple of Poseidon, where you’ll get about 1.5 hours to wander freely, soak in the wild sea views, and snap photos of the stunning sunset.
What makes this tour special are the ancient ruins of Thorikos, the world’s oldest theater, and the panoramic views from the southeastern peak of Cape Sounion. Many guests mention their friendly guides and the quiet, less crowded atmosphere—perfect for getting those iconic sunset shots. The tour wraps up in Syntagma Square, after about 5.5 hours of exploring.
Bottom line: An excellent choice for sunset lovers and history fans alike, especially if you want a memorable, less crowded experience that includes mythic scenery.
2. Athens: Acropolis, Parthenon & Acropolis Museum Guided Tour
This guided tour of the Acropolis and the Parthenon is perfect for those who want a deep dive into Athens’ most iconic monument. It skips the line, so you won’t waste precious time waiting for tickets. The tour also includes a visit to the new Acropolis Museum, where you’ll see artifacts uncovered from the site, like the famous Caryatids.
Guests praise their knowledgeable guides, who explain the mythology, architecture, and significance of each ruin. The tour lasts between 2 and 4 hours, making it flexible for your schedule. Keep in mind, it’s a walking tour without breaks, so come prepared.
Bottom line: Best suited for history and architecture enthusiasts who want an informative, streamlined experience at Athens’ most famous site.
3. Athens: Acropolis & up to 5 Archaeological Sites Combo Pass
If you’re eager to see more than just the Acropolis, this combo pass grants access to five top sites, including the Roman Agora, Ancient Agora, and Temple of Zeus. It’s ideal for travelers who want flexibility and self-paced exploration.
With a professional audio guide, you’ll learn about Athens’ ancient history, while enjoying 500MB of free mobile data to share your photos instantly. Guests mention the ease of wandering at their own pace and the value of combining multiple sites in one ticket. The pass is valid for one day, making it a good investment if time allows.
Bottom line: Perfect for independent travelers eager to explore many highlights without rushing or paying multiple entrance fees.
4. Athens: Acropolis and Parthenon Guided Walking Tour
This guided walking tour of the Acropolis and Parthenon has been running for 20 years and shows it in its experienced guides and well-planned route. The tour begins at Dionysiou Areopagitou and takes you past the Erechtheion, Propylaea, and Temple of Athena Nike, with a total walk time of about 10 minutes between stops.
Enhanced with personal earsets, the guide shares myths and facts that make the ruins more meaningful. Visitors particularly enjoy the breathtaking views of Athens from the top, along with the stories that bring the ruins to life. The tour lasts roughly 2–3.5 hours and is suited for those who want a personal, narrative-rich experience.
Bottom line: Ideal for travelers who prefer a relaxed, story-driven exploration led by local experts.
5. Athens: Greek Foodie Tour with Tastings
For a delicious change of pace, this Greek foodie tour takes you into Athens’ vibrant Varvakios Agora, a bustling food market. Over four hours, you’ll taste pastries, mezze, gyros, and local wines, stopping at traditional stores and tavernas.
Guests love the enthusiastic guides and the generous tastings, which include honey, olives, and fresh bread. It’s a great way to experience local life and learn about Greece’s culinary traditions firsthand. The tour is perfect if you want a laid-back, social experience with lots of flavors and stories. It’s especially well-rated for its friendly guides and authentic food stops.
Bottom line: Best suited for culinary enthusiasts and those eager to explore Athens through its tastes and smells.
6. Athens: Meteora Monasteries Day Trip with Caves and Lunch
This full-day trip to Meteora combines stunning scenery, history, and local food. Starting early, it takes you across 14 hours to visit three monasteries, the Hermit Caves, and enjoy a Greek lunch with panoramic views.
The guides are locals who share authentic insights, and guests consistently praise the breathtaking landscapes and the chance to walk inside monasteries and explore caves. The tour includes convenient return transportation from Athens. It’s best for active travelers who enjoy a mix of sightseeing and cultural stories. The price reflects the extensive itinerary, making it a great value for such a comprehensive day.
Bottom line: Ideal for history lovers and scenery seekers eager for a full-day adventure outside Athens.
7. From Athens: Day Trip to Delphi & Arachova with Audio Guide
This Delphi and Arachova tour offers a 10-hour immersion into Greece’s religious heart. Traveling by coach, you’ll explore the Oracle of Delphi, the Temple of Apollo, and the Delphi Museum.
Guests appreciate the audio guide, which enhances understanding of the site’s myths and history. A stop in the charming mountain village of Arachova lets you experience local life and enjoy a traditional lunch. The tour is well-rated for its balance of cultural and scenic highlights, suitable for those with a full day to spare.
Bottom line: Perfect for travelers interested in classical mythology and scenic mountain villages, with a good balance of guided insight and free time.
8. Athens: Mycenae, Epidaurus & Nafplio Day Trip w/ Audio Guide
On this day trip to Mycenae, Epidaurus, and Nafplio, you’ll explore the legendary kingdom of Agamemnon and its impressive archaeological sites. The tour includes a visit to Nafplio, Greece’s first capital, and the famous Epidaurus theater with its perfect acoustics.
Guests praise the expert commentary and the seamless itinerary. Highlights include taking photos at the Isthmus of Corinth and exploring the ancient ruins at your own pace. The tour is a good option for history and architecture fans who want a full day of exploration without the hassle of planning.
Bottom line: A solid choice for cultural enthusiasts interested in Greece’s Mycenaean past and scenic coastal towns.
9. Athens: Mythology of Delphi, Museum and Arachova Guided Tour
This mythology-focused tour emphasizes Greece’s legendary stories tied to Delphi’s ruins and Arachova’s charm. It combines visits to the Temple of Apollo, the Delphi Museum, and a scenic stop in Arachova.
Guests rave about the knowledgeable guides who connect myths and history seamlessly. It’s a great pick for travelers who love stories and want a well-rounded picture of Greek myth and archaeology. The tour lasts 10 hours and is ideal for history and mythology aficionados wanting an environmentally friendly, full-day experience.
Bottom line: Best for those who enjoy storytelling and want to see Greece’s mythic sites with expert narration.
10. Athens to Meteora: Monasteries, Caves & Seaside Stopovers
This extended Meteora tour takes 14 hours, including stops for lunch, seaside brunch, and sunset dinner. It’s perfect for travelers who want the full Meteora experience plus some relaxing seaside moments.
Highlights include visiting monasteries, exploring Hermit Caves, and savoring regional dishes at a beachfront restaurant. The guides are local experts, and many reviews mention the stunning scenery and good value for the long day. It’s suited for active, scenery-loving travelers who don’t mind a lengthy trip.
Bottom line: An excellent pick for serious culture and scenery lovers who want a mix of mountain monasteries and beachside relaxation.
11. Athens: Acropolis and Mythology Highlights Small Group Tour
This small group tour offers an intimate look at Athens’ key ancient sites. Led by a passionate guide, you’ll visit the Temple of Olympian Zeus, the Acropolis, and the Erechtheion, with personal attention and smaller crowds.
The guide explains the myths and stories behind the ruins, making history come alive. The tour lasts about 4 hours and is highly rated for its friendly, knowledgeable guides and manageable size. It’s ideal for travelers who want a personal touch and a deeper understanding of Athens’ mythic past.
Bottom line: Great for those who prefer a small-group experience with lots of storytelling.
12. Athens: 4-Hour Cooking Class with Central Market Visit
This cooking class combines market shopping with hands-on cooking in Athens. You’ll visit the central food market, pick out fresh ingredients, then learn to prepare Greek classics with a local chef.
Guests rave about the interactive lessons and the delicious meal they create. It’s an excellent choice for food lovers who want to learn authentic recipes and take home new skills. The class lasts around 4 hours and includes a glass of wine or soft drink.
Bottom line: Perfect for culinary travelers who want an authentic, hands-on experience of Greek cuisine.
13. Athens: Cruise to Agistri, Moni & Aegina with Lunch & Drinks
This cruise offers a full day sailing the Saronic Gulf, stopping at three islands. You’ll swim, snorkel, and explore, with unlimited drinks and a Greek buffet lunch onboard.
Guests especially appreciate the easy cruising, the chance to relax, and the fun of swimming in clear waters. The boat’s crew is friendly and attentive, and many travelers mention the beautiful islands and the lively atmosphere. It’s ideal for those who want a leisurely day out on the water.
Bottom line: Great for relaxing, scenic island hopping, and sampling Greek food in a friendly, social setting.
14. Athens Small Group Electric Bike Tour
This e-bike tour is a fun way to cover a lot of ground in just 2.5 hours. The electric bikes make hills easy and let you see the Acropolis, Panathenaic Stadium, and neighborhoods like Plaka with ease.
Guests love the personalized attention with small group sizes and guides who are passionate about the city. The route includes photo stops, making it ideal for capturing memories while getting some exercise. The tour is perfect for active travelers who want a quick yet rundown of Athens.
Bottom line: A lively, eco-friendly way to discover Athens’ top sights with a friendly guide and plenty of photo opportunities.
15. Athens: Delphi Oracle & Museum Tour with a Licensed Guide
This Delphi & museum tour takes you 11 hours into Greece’s mythic past. Traveling comfortably by air-conditioned vehicle, you’ll visit the ancient Oracle of Delphi, the Temple of Apollo, and the Delphi Archaeological Museum.
Guides share stories about the prophet Pythia and the significance of the site, making the ruins come alive. The tour includes a free time in Arachova, a scenic mountain town with charming shops and cafes. Many reviewers highlight the knowledgeable guide and the well-paced itinerary.
Bottom line: A top pick for mythology fans and those wanting a full-day immersive experience outside Athens.
How to Choose the Right Tour in Athens
When selecting your tour, consider your interests and fitness level. If you’re passionate about archaeology, the guided Acropolis & Parthenon or small group mythological highlights are excellent. For travelers eager to experience Greek cuisine, the foodie tour offers delicious insights.
Budget is also a factor—half-day trips like Cape Sounion or full-day excursions to Meteora and Delphi provide different value propositions. For those with limited time, quick but immersive options like the acropolis walking tour are perfect.
Booking early is advisable, especially in summer, when popular tours fill quickly. Always check for availability and consider your interest in history, scenery, or food to pick the best fit.
Final Thoughts
Athens offers a broad spectrum of tours that can deepen your understanding of Greece’s past and present. If you want a romantic sunset, the Cape Sounion trip is a highlight. For culture, the Acropolis guided tour or the small group mythological tour are excellent choices.
Food lovers should not miss the Greek foodie tour, which combines local flavors with lively market scenes. For scenic day trips, Meteora and Delphi remain unmatched for their stunning landscapes and ancient secrets.
Remember, Athens’ mix of history, culture, and scenery means there’s a perfect tour for everyone—just pick the one that suits your interests and schedule best. Book early, and get ready for a memorable adventure through Greece’s historic heart.
