Acropolis & Ancient Agora Tour – From Sacred Heights to Civic Life

Description

Explore the full spectrum of ancient Athenian life on this private walking tour that combines the religious, cultural, and political heart of classical Greece. With exclusive access to the Acropolis and the Ancient Agora, this tour invites you to walk in the footsteps of philosophers, priests, orators, and citizens who shaped the very foundations of Western thought. Whether you’re a first-time visitor or a returning traveler with a deeper curiosity, this experience offers a profound and immersive look at both the spiritual and democratic identity of ancient Athens.

The tour begins on the Acropolis Hill, the most recognizable site in Athens. With a private, licensed guide by your side, you’ll enter through the Propylaea and ascend to the Parthenon, the temple that once symbolized the power and pride of the Athenian state. Explore the Erechtheion, with its elegant Caryatid statues, and the Temple of Athena Nike, perched strategically on the hill’s edge.

From the sacred to the civic, your journey continues with a short walk to the Ancient Agora, where everyday life in Athens unfolded. This was more than a marketplace—it was the very center of public life, a hub for trade, legislation, philosophy, and democracy. Here, you will unravel the complexities of the Athenian political system and its remarkable achievements: the world’s first direct democracy, jury trials, public voting, and open debate.

The Temple of Hephaestus still stands over the Agora, offering an unforgettable view into the aesthetics and function of Doric architecture. All of this is framed by stories of famous historical figures who shaped Western philosophy and politics—Socrates, Plato, Pericles, and more.

This private tour is fully customizable, allowing your guide to tailor the experience to your interests, whether you’re passionate about mythology, civic structure, architecture, or all of the above. It’s perfect for travelers who want to move beyond the highlights and into the heart of Athens’ historical narrative.

Highlights :

1. Explore the Acropolis, including the Parthenon, Erechtheion, and Propylaea.

2. Guided walk through the Ancient Agora, Athens’ civic and intellectual center.

3. Learn how daily life, democracy, and philosophy were practiced in ancient times.

Details :

1. Private tour, your group only!
2. Flexible time start.
3. The tour is conducted in English.
4. The tour involves a considerable amount of walking with an uphill climb to the top of the Acropolis Hill. It is not fitted well with children under the age of 6 or people with mobility impairments.
5. The tour will end after the ancient agora, in the Thission neighbourhood.
6. Restrooms will be available during the tour.

❓FAQ

What is the Acropolis?

The Acropolis is the rocky formation that looms over the city of Athens. It is considered to be an archaeological site and contains the ruins of ancient monuments dating from the pre-historic to the modern times.

What are the opening hours of the sites?

When it comes to the Acropolis Hill, the opening hours vary during the winter and the summer time as detailed below:
• Winter: 08:00 – 17:00
• Summer: 8:00- 19:30
• 16th to 30th September: 08:00 – 19:00
• 1st to 15th October: 08:00 – 18:30
• 16th to 30th October: 08:00 – 18:00

The new Acropolis Museum is open daily. (The opening hours vary as seen in the following chart)
• From 1 November to 31 March:
Monday – Thursday: 9 am – 5 pm
Friday: 9 am – 10 pm
Saturday and Sunday: 9 am – 8 pm

• From 1 April to 31 October:
Monday: 9 am – 5 pm
Tuesday – Sunday: 9 am – 8 pm
Friday: 9 am – 10 pm

What are the admission tickets and entrance fees of the sites?

Entrance fees vary depending on the site you visit

• Acropolis Hill: €30 per adult
• Other archaeological sites and museums: typically €20 per adult

These prices apply to adult visitors. Reduced admission is generally available for minors upon presentation of a valid passport or ID.

At Acanthus Tours, we ensure that all ticketing details are arranged seamlessly for you, so your focus remains on experiencing the wonders of Athens.

How many times can I use my tickets?

The tickets to both archaeological sites (the Acropolis Hill archaeological site and the Acropolis museum) are valid for ONE ENTRY ONLY. You will not need a ticket to the area of Anafiotika.

What languages are available?

Our tours are conducted primarily in English but French and Spanish are also available upon request.

What SHOULD I bring with me?

To make the most of your visit, we recommend bringing:

• A bottle of water, sunglasses and a hat (esp. during the warm months, for April to October)
• A raincoat/umbrella if the weather forecast suggests rain
• Comfortable, enclosed shoes with good support as the paths of the Acropolis Hill can feel like a light hiking experience.

 

What am I NOT allowed to bring?

For safety reasons it is NOT allowed and/or advised to bring inside any the following items:
– Any food or beverage except for water
– Any sharp items, such as knives or bottle openers
– Any large backpacks will be handed to the cloakroom in the Acropolis museum
– No pets are allowed, except for guide dogs

What is not included in the tours?

If you opt for the option without the tickets, you will have to purchase them on your own.
No food or drink is provided by the company.
In case it rains the company WILL provide you with a raincoat, but NOT with an umbrella.

Am I going to see the Parthenon during these tours?

Of course! The Parthenon is one of the monuments you are going to enjoy on top of the Acropolis Hill.

Can I have a map of the Acropolis Hill?