Athens isn’t just about the Parthenon and ancient ruins; it’s a city bursting with options for full-day tours that cater to history lovers, culture seekers, and those simply wanting a break from the bustle. Our favorites include private experiences like Athens Greece Full Day private tour that combine comfort and flexibility, and the Delphi Full Day Private Tour from Athens for a trip into Greece’s mythic past. These tours stand out for their personalized approach, expert guides, and hassle-free logistics, making them perfect for travelers who want to maximize their time and see the highlights without the crowds.
Athens is a city that offers a rich mix of ancient sites, scenic drives, and cultural experiences, all within easy reach. Whether you’re interested in exploring the Acropolis with a private guide, discovering the mythical site of Delphi, or combining history with a relaxing thermal spa visit, there’s a full-day tour that fits your style. Today, we’ll walk through the top options, highlighting what makes each one special and helping you pick the best fit for your trip.
Below, you’ll find sixteen standout full-day tours in Athens—each with its own unique flavor, from private archaeological adventures to full-day excursions that include scenic drives and visits to lesser-known sites. Read on for all the details to plan your perfect day.
1. Athens Greece Full Day private tour
At number 1, the Athens Greece Full Day private tour is a top choice for history fans wanting a flexible, private experience. With a 5.0/5 rating from over 700 reviews, this tour packs the major highlights into roughly 8 to 9 hours. The best part? It’s customizable—so you can focus on what interests you most, whether that’s the Parthenon, the Acropolis Museum, or the Ancient Agora. The private Mercedes-Benz makes for a comfortable and stylish ride, with onboard Wi-Fi and charging stations.
All entrance fees are at your own expense, but the driver provides historical insights along the way. Past travelers love how seamless and stress-free this tour is, with many mentioning their driver/guide as knowledgeable and engaging. It’s ideal for those who want to see Athens’ key sights without the chaos of public transport or large groups.
Bottom Line: Perfect for history lovers seeking full flexibility and a touch of luxury in a private setting.
2. Athens Full Day Private Tour
Number 2 on our list, the Athens Full Day Private Tour, offers a comprehensive yet flexible journey in approximately 8 hours. For around $201 per person, you get door-to-door service in a climate-controlled vehicle, with Wi-Fi and USB charging—perfect for staying connected while avoiding Athens’ heat and crowds. This tour includes visits to the iconic Acropolis, the Theatre of Dionysus, and the Herod Atticus Odeon, with the option to add a licensed guide for deeper insights.
Reviews praise the professionalism of the driver and the flexibility of the itinerary, especially for those with specific interests or limited time. The driver, Nasos, was described as engaging and attentive, making the experience even more memorable.
Bottom Line: Best suited for travelers who want a custom, private experience with comfort and flexibility.
3. From Athens: Mycenae, Epidaurus & Nafplio Full-Day Tour
This full-day trip is a great way to explore beyond Athens into the Peloponnese, visiting ancient Mycenae, the theater of Epidaurus, and the charming town of Nafplio. It’s a 10-hour adventure with a focus on archaeology and scenic beauty. Visitors rave about the knowledgeable guide, Katarina, and appreciate the environmentally conscious approach of this gas emission-neutral tour.
Highlights include the Lion Gate, royal tombs, and the acoustic marvel of Epidaurus Theater. The tour also includes a scenic drive along the Corinth Canal, making it a rich cultural experience packed into one day.
Bottom Line: Ideal for history buffs wanting a well-paced, environmentally friendly tour of key Peloponnese sites.
4. Delphi Full Day Private Tour from Athens
Number 4, the Delphi Private Tour takes you on a 8-to-9-hour journey to one of Greece’s most revered archaeological sites, a UNESCO World Heritage site. Travel in your private air-conditioned vehicle, with the driver prearranging skip-the-line tickets, and explore the Temple of Apollo, Delphi Archaeological Museum, and the mountain sanctuaries.
Many travelers appreciate the flexibility of this tour, which can be tailored to your interests. The driver, well-informed and engaging, makes the trip educational and enjoyable. For roughly $219 per person, it provides a personalized experience to uncover Greece’s mythic past.
Bottom Line: Perfect for those seeking a private, flexible day trip to explore Greece’s sacred history.
5. Lake Vouliagmeni Thermal Spa And Temple Of Poseidon Private Full Day Tour
Number 5 is a delightful mix of relaxation and sightseeing. The Lake Vouliagmeni Thermal Spa and Temple of Poseidon combines a dip in mineral-rich thermal waters with a visit to the cliff-top Temple of Poseidon. It’s perfect if you want a day that’s both restorative and scenic.
The tour includes stress-free private transportation, avoiding crowded buses, and a culinary welcome gift. Past travelers mention the thermal lake’s calming waters and the spectacular views from Cape Sounion as highlights.
Bottom Line: Suited for travelers craving relaxation paired with iconic ancient sites in a private setting.
6. Athens: Ancient Corinth & Nafplio Full Day Trip with Swim
At number 6, this full-day Peloponnese adventure combines archaeological exploration with leisure. Visit the ruins of Ancient Corinth, walk through the alleys of Nafplio, and enjoy a swim at Arvanitia Beach. It’s a 10-hour tour that balances sightseeing and relaxation, with a friendly driver and flexible schedule.
Many reviewers appreciated the pace, noting there’s enough time at each stop to explore without feeling rushed. The opportunity to swim in the Aegean after visiting ancient sites makes this trip stand out.
Bottom Line: Ideal for those who want to combine history with a relaxing seaside break.
7. Mycenae, Epidaurus, Nafplio Full Day Private Tour from Athens
This private Mycenae, Epidaurus, Nafplio tour offers the comfort of personalized service with a driver-guide. Covering these three highlights in about 8-9 hours, it’s perfect for travelers who want an intimate experience. The guide’s knowledge about the ancient sites and their mythology brings history alive.
Guests mention that the tour is well-paced, with special mentions of the knowledgeable guide, and appreciate the flexibility of private transport. The visits include famous sites like the Lion Gate and the ancient theater of Epidaurus.
Bottom Line: Best for travelers seeking a private, in-depth look at key Peloponnese archaeological sites.
8. Private Delphi and Thermopylae Full Day Tour from Athens
Number 8, this Delphi & Thermopylae tour is for those wanting a deep dive into Greece’s historical battlefields and sacred sites. It’s a 10-hour private trip that includes visits to Thermopylae’s battlefield, the Museum, and then to Delphi.
The tour provides insightful commentary from your driver, with the option to add a licensed guide for even more context. Many travelers like the combination of historic significance and scenic mountain views.
Bottom Line: Ideal for history enthusiasts interested in Greece’s military past and mythic sites in one day.
9. Ancient Corinth, Epidaurus, Nafplio full day private tour from Athens
This private full-day tour mirrors the earlier Peloponnese trip but with a focus on comfort and flexibility. It covers Corinth, Epidaurus, and Nafplio in 8-9 hours, with no entrance fees included but the option to upgrade to a Greek lunch.
Guests highlight the knowledgeable driver and the smooth logistics, making it a hassle-free way to see a lot in one day. The tour is perfect for those on a tight schedule yet eager to see Greece’s ancient sites.
Bottom Line: Best for travelers wanting a private, relaxed exploration of key archaeological sites.
10. Thermopylae, Meteora and Delphi Private Full Day Tour
For a 14-hour epic, the Thermopylae, Meteora, and Delphi private tour is for travelers with energy and time. It hits three of Greece’s top historic sites, with round-trip transportation by Mercedes-Benz, guided visits, and an included dinner.
Guests love the flexibility to explore independently or with guides at each site, making it a comprehensive, seamless experience. The long drive is balanced by the opportunity to absorb Greece’s diverse landscapes and history.
Bottom Line: Ideal for serious history fans or those eager to see Greece’s most iconic sites in one day.
11. Essential Athens Full Day Private Tour – Best Shore Excursion
This shore excursion is perfect for cruise passengers. With a 5.0/5 rating, it offers a flexible, private itinerary that covers the Acropolis, Temple of Olympian Zeus, and other highlights. The tour is customizable, with skip-the-line tickets and hotel or port pickup.
Reviewers mention its efficient pacing and the personal touch of the guide. It’s a good choice for those with limited time but wanting a thorough introduction to Athens’ top sights.
Bottom Line: Best for cruise travelers wanting a private, customizable experience without worry.
12. Athens Full-Day Private Sightseeing Trip
Number 12, the full-day private sightseeing combines major ruins like the Acropolis and Temple of Zeus with cultural highlights such as Plaka. It’s a flexible 8-hour tour with private transport and skip-the-line tickets, ideal for travelers who want to control their schedule.
Reviewers praise the attentive driver and the balance of sightseeing and leisure. It’s a solid, all-around option for those who want a comprehensive visit to Athens’ historic core.
Bottom Line: Suitable for travelers who want a personal, in-depth overview of Athens at their own pace.
13. Meteora Full Day Private Tour from Athens including Lunch
Number 13 offers a private Meteora experience, with a full day of sightseeing. Travel comfortably, visit up to three monasteries, and enjoy a scenic drive. The tour includes lunch, making it a well-rounded day trip for those who want to see Greece’s famous rock monasteries without the hassle of planning.
Guests note the knowledgeable driver and the flexibility to explore the monasteries at their own pace. The long drive is balanced by the breathtaking views and cultural depth.
Bottom Line: Great for travelers wanting a private, relaxed day exploring Meteora’s monasteries.
14. Athens: All Day Cruise to Agistri Moni Aegina with Lunch & Drinks
Number 14, the cruise to islands blends island-hopping, swimming, and sightseeing on a 10-hour day. Visit Agistri and Aegina, dock for land exploration, and enjoy on-board lunches with drinks and snacks. It’s perfect for those who want a relaxing day on the water with plenty of swimming and sunbathing.
Reviewers love the crew’s friendly service and the chance to swim in clear waters. The tours include snorkeling gear, making it easy to cool off after sightseeing.
Bottom Line: Ideal for travelers looking for a full-day, scenic island adventure with casual relaxation.
15. Ancient Corinth, Mycenae, Epidaurus, Nafplio full day private tour from Athens
Finally, this full-day private tour covers four key sites of the Peloponnese, combining archaeological wonders and scenic towns. Travel comfortably in a private vehicle, with the driver sharing insights along the way. The tour emphasizes flexibility, allowing you to prioritize sites like Mycenae or Epidaurus.
Guests find this tour excellent for its in-depth storytelling, and the ability to customize the visit makes it a favorite among those eager to learn and see a lot.
Bottom Line: Best for those who want a personal, flexible day exploring Greece’s ancient and scenic highlights.
How to Choose Your Perfect Full-Day Tour in Athens
When selecting a full-day tour, consider your budget, interests, and fitness level. For a luxurious, private experience that maximizes comfort, options like the Athens Greece Full Day private tour are ideal. If you prefer a more active or scenic experience, tours combining visits to Nafplio, Epidaurus, and Mycenae offer a deeper look into Greece’s history away from the crowds.
For travelers with limited time, the Essential Athens Full Day Private Tour provides a tailored, efficient way to see the highlights. Book early, especially for private or popular excursions, to ensure availability and the best rates.
Final Thoughts
Athens offers a wide range of full-day tours to suit different tastes and travel styles. Whether you’re after a private, flexible exploration of the Acropolis, a scenic trip to Delphi, or a relaxing cruise to nearby islands, the options above cover it all. For history lovers, the private tours such as Athens Greece Full Day private tour and Mycenae, Epidaurus, Nafplio Full Day Private Tour deliver depth and comfort. For those wanting a mix of scenery and archaeology, tours visiting Corinth, Nafplio, or Meteora bring the landscape into the story.
Don’t forget to plan ahead and book your preferred tour early, especially in peak months. With so many excellent options, you’re sure to find a full-day adventure that makes your Athens trip unforgettable.
