Essential Athens Highlights Full-Day Private Tour with Flexible Options
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September 2026
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Adults
Age 13 and over
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Age 12 and under
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Free cancellation up to 24 hours before. Same price on Viator, Outty earns a commission.
Traveler rating
4.9/5
Based on 22 traveler reviews. Ratings and reviews provided by Viator and Tripadvisor.
Quick answer
Is Essential Athens Highlights Full-Day Private Tour with Flexible Options worth booking?
Essential Athens Highlights Full-Day Private Tour with Flexible Options is a 7-hour experience in Athens, Greece, from $73 per person. It scores 74 out of 100 on the Outty Ranking, which we label “Strongly Recommended”, based on a 4.9/5 rating across 22 reviews. Cancellation is free up to 24 hours before the start time. Same-day spots are currently showing.
- Outty Ranking
- 74 / 100
- Rating
- 4.9/5 (22)
- Duration
- 7 hours
- From
- $73 per person
From pick up at your Cruise ship, Hotel, or Athens residence sit back in the comfort of one of our new Luxury Class Mercedes Vehicles as your experienced informative professional tour driver takes you on a private tour o
What you get
About this experience
From pick up at your Cruise ship, Hotel, or Athens residence sit back in the comfort of one of our new Luxury Class Mercedes Vehicles as your experienced informative professional tour driver takes you on a private tour of all the Athens Highlights including the Acropolis, New Acropolis Museum, Arch of Hadrian, Temple of Zeus, Olympic Stadium, Parliament & Traditional National Guards, and National Archaeological Museum, so you won't miss anything during your visit. Our Flexible Booking Options allow you to include a wonderful Traditional Lunch (Silver Package), Expert guiding with a Licensed Professional Guide who will be with you for 3 hours to cover the Acropolis and Acropolis Museum (Gold Package), or both Lunch plus Guide (Platinum Package); whilst a Family & Discount Option is also available, as well as a Half-Day Option including an expert guide for those preferring a shorter tour. Please note that for bookings of 8 or more persons, a private guide is automatically included.
What's included
Included
- SILVER PACKAGE: Includes Traditional 3-Course Lunch
- LUXURY CLASS MERCEDES VEHICLES. All New Models with WiFi, A/C, Chilled Bottled Water
- FAMILY & DISCOUNT OPTION: Tour without Lunch or Expert Guide. Standard Sedan Class.
- HALF-DAY OPTION: 5-Hour Itinerary including an Expert Guide for the Acropolis & Acropolis Museum
- GOLD PACKAGE: Includes Expert Guide for the Acropolis & Acropolis Museum
- Professional English speaking experienced Tour driver throughout the day
- PLATINUM PACKAGE: Includes Lunch & Expert Guide for the Acropolis & Acropolis Museum
- A PROFESSIONAL GUIDE. Included for the Acropolis & Museum with groups of 8 or more persons
Not included
- Entrance Fees
- Licensed guide for archaeological sites unless specified by tour package. Available on request
- Athens Airport transfers or pickup locations outside Athens: arranged on request with surcharge
- Expert Guiding at the National Archaeological Museum. Availabe on request at additional cost.
- Alcoholis Drinks are not included with any Lunch Package
What you'll see and do
Athens
PICKUP IN ATHENS. Your friendly Private Tour Driver will be at your Hotel, Cruise Ship or Athens Residence ready to meet you at the agreed time and outline the tour ahead as you make yourself comfortable in one of our new Mercedes Models with complimentary chilled bottled water and Wifi.
5 minutes here
Acropolis
Our day starts with the Acropolis, focus of life in Ancient Athens & surrounded by its amazing cyclopean' wall, ' wall, wall built by the Myceneans thousands of years ago. The Acropolis is home to the Parthenon, but also many other amazing monuments. You will first enter through the giant ‘Propylaia’ behind which once stood a gold encrusted statue of the Goddess Athena. You will also see the Temple of Athena Nike (or 'Viktory') from 420 BC before other important sites such as the mythical Erechtheion, unique in its construction with its iconic statues of the Caryatids, and the World’s oldest Theatre of Dionysus from the 6th Century BC, which would have seen the very first performances of ancient plays by Sophocles and Euripides among others. The impressive & fully renovated Roman theater, Herodius Atticus, completed in AD 161, also in the site, was dedicated to the wife of a rich benefactor and still hosts a vibrant public summer program.
60 minutes here · Admission not included
Parthenon
Considered widely as a masterpiece of science, engineering and culture, the Parthenon was dedicated to the goddess Athena and would have originally housed her impressive statue. Its decorative sculptures are considered some of the high points of classical Greek art, some of which can be seen in the nearby Museum.
10 minutes here
Acropolis Museum
Explore the New Acropolis Museum situated adjacent to the Acropolis which houses the many masterpieces from the site. If you prefer you can continue without entering also.
60 minutes here · Admission not included
Temple of Olympian Zeus
This Colossal temple at the center of Athens was dedicated to the God Zeus, head of the Olympian gods. Construction began in the 6th century BC and the temple was home to a richly adorned statue, one of the seven wonders of the Ancient World.
10 minutes here · Admission not included
Arch of Hadrian
Classic Triumphal Arch built by the Ancient Athenians for the Roman Emperor Hadrian & seen together with the Temple of Zeus in the same location
10 minutes here
Panathenaic Stadium
Also called 'Kallimarmaro' stadium is one of the highlights of Athens where the classic Marathon ends & the only stadium in the world built entirely of marble
20 minutes here · Admission not included
Syntagma
Main square of Athens housing the Hellenic Parliament building & focus of much of Athenian life & Politics. At the square you will also see the Tomb of the Unknown Soldier and impressive Changing Of The Guard’s ceremony, with the iconic 'Evzone’s' in their traditional uniform.
20 minutes here
Monastiraki Square at the heart of the Old-Town is a vibrant center of life in the city
Pass by without stopping
Athens
LUNCH OPTION: (No street food) If choosing our lunch option during booking you will enjoy a Traditional 3-Course Greek Lunch in one of the best local family restaurants. Fish, Meat or Vegetarian options are available together with Greek Salad and Starter or Dessert (daily menu's may vary). If you do not choose the lunch option your driver will still make time for you for a lunch break
60 minutes here
Ancient Agora of Athens
ON REQUEST. We can add this site to your itinerary on request, and as a replacement of one or two of the others on our existing schedule. The Agora was the marketplace of the Ancient Greeks & centre of political & social life in Athens. A significant site home to the philosophers, craftsmen & housing the remains of many important buildings including an on-site museum in a recreation of an ancient market and the Temple of Hephaestus, best preserved ancient temple in existence.
10 minutes here · Admission not included
National Archaeological Museum
Recognized as one of the greatest of the world’s museums its exhibits contain the largest collection from Greek antiquity with unmissable and seminal pieces from the Gold 'Deathmask of Agamemnon', leader of the Greeks in the Trojan war, to the 2000-year-old 'Antikithera mechanism' and worlds first computer; the Cup of Nestor referred to in Homer's Iliad, to the 'Ring of Theseus' to Masterpieces of sculpture such as the statues of Aphrodite & Poseidon. Please note that we are able to add a private expert guide for this site on request (additional cost).
60 minutes here · Admission not included
Athens
DROP OFF. Finally, your driver will see you back safely & directly to your Athens Residence or Cruise Ship before wishing you a fond farewell and hope to see you back soon again!
5 minutes here
Where it starts and ends
Hotel pickup
Pickup is included for all travelers. Pickup begins about 10 minutes before departure.
Options you can book
PLATINUM / LUNCH & GUIDE
EXPERT GUIDE INCLUDED: A Licensed Guide to join your group for private guiding of the Acropolis and New Acropolis Museum (3hrs duration). INCLUDES LUNCH: Traditional Greek cuisine in one of the best local restaurants. Vegetarian options are available (excludes alcoholic drinks). TRAVEL IN LUXURY: New Luxury Class Mercedes: Groups of 1-3 E-Class Sedan; 4-7 Minivan; 8-19 Sprinter. Free WiFi / AC / Bottled Water. Pickup included
FAMILY & DISCOUNT OPTION
TRAVEL IN STYLE: Groups of 1-3: Superior Class Sedan; 4-7 Luxury Mercedes Minivan; 8-19 Mercedes Sprinter. Free Wifi / A/C / Bottled Water. Pickup included
GOLD PACKAGE / GUIDE
EXPERT GUIDE INCLUDED: A Licensed Guide will join your group for private guiding of the Acropolis and New Acropolis Museum (3hrs duration). TRAVEL IN LUXURY : New Luxury Class Mercedes: Groups of 1-3 E-Class Sedan; 4-7 Minivan; 8-19 Sprinter. Free WiFi / AC / Bottled Water. Pickup included
SILVER PACKAGE / LUNCH
INCLUDES LUNCH: Traditional Greek cuisine in one of the best local restaurants. Vegetarian options are available (excludes alcoholic drinks). TRAVEL IN LUXURY: New Luxury Class Mercedes: Groups of 1-3 E-Class Sedan; 4-7 Minivan; 8-19 Sprinter. Free WiFi / AC / Bottled Water. Pickup included
HALF-DAY OPTION / GUIDE
EXPERT GUIDE INCLUDED: A Licensed Guide will join your group for private guiding of the Acropolis and New Acropolis Museum (3hrs duration). Duration: 5 hours TRAVEL IN LUXURY: New Luxury Class Mercedes: Groups of 1-3 E-Class Sedan; 4-7 Minivan; 8-19 Sprinter. Free WiFi / AC / Bottled Water. Pickup included
Before you book
- Cancellation
- For a full refund, cancel at least 24 hours before the scheduled departure time.
- Languages
- en
- Ticket
- Mobile Only
- Runs on
- Every day
- Group size
- Up to 15 travelers per booking
- Operated by
- WARMPENGUIN
Know before you go
- Service animals allowed
- Public transportation options are available nearby
- Specialized infant seats are available
- Not recommended for travelers with poor cardiovascular health
- Suitable for all physical fitness levels
- LUNCH OPTION: You may add this later on request or choose either Silver or Platinum Package during booking. Vegetarian dishes available. Please inform us of any allergies
- GUIDING/LICENSED GUIDES: Please note your knowledgeable tour driver can inform you thoroughly en-route but can not enter Archaeological sites. You can add an expert Guide for the Acropolis & Museum by selecting either the Gold or Platinum Package.
- EXTENDED EXPERT GUIDING TIME: If you prefer a guide to be with you for the other sites, please ask for details.
- PICKUP FROM ATHENS AIRPORT & LOCATIONS OUTSIDE CENTRAL ATHENS: May require a supplement. Please inquire for details.
Photos
What travelers are saying
Outty’s summary of the themes that recur across 22 traveler reviews. Written by us, not quoted from reviewers.
The guide
10 mentionsTravelers single out the guide as the reason the experience works.
Food and drink
5 mentionsThe tastings and food stops are a highlight for most reviewers.
Knowledge and storytelling
4 mentionsReviewers describe the commentary as informative rather than scripted.
Small groups
4 mentionsThe group size is repeatedly described as intimate rather than packed.
Photo opportunities
2 mentionsThe views and photo stops come up again and again.
Value for money
2 mentionsTravelers feel they got more than they paid for.
Traveler reviews
22 verified traveler reviews for Essential Athens Highlights Full-Day Private Tour with Flexible Options. Ratings and reviews provided by Viator and Tripadvisor.
Highly recommend private tour with expert guide.
Great experience with Alex as our driver and guide for the day and Marina as our expert guide at the acropolis. Highly recommend having the dedicated guide. Marina’s knowledge and expertise made all the difference. We had the included lunch option which had a great view over the Aegean with just ok food.
Response from the operator: Dear Jill Your wonderful review was really nice for all of us to read. Thank you so much for choosing us for your tour! We hope to see you back again in the future. Best Wishes from all of us at Warmpenguin Tours
via Viator
Acropolis and other sites
We had such a fantastic time! It was very hot but went early and managed! Vicki, our guide was amazing! A wealth of knowledge. We visited the Acropolis & museum as well as the Archaeological museum. Highly recommend getting a guide, you learn so much more! Well worth it! Can’t say enough about Bill, our driver! Very friendly & personable as well as a book of knowledge! He made the trip & site seeing extra special for all of us! Will miss seeing him everyday!!
Response from the operator: Dear Pamela Your wonderful review was really nice for all of us to read. Thank you so much for choosing us for your tour! We hope to see you back again in the future. Best Wishes from all of us at Warmpenguin Tours
via Viator
Fabulous Day in Athens
We did the full day tour in Athens. We visited the Acropolis, the Acropolis Museum, the Ancient Agora, the Archaeological Museum, drove past many other sites such as the Academy, National Library, Parliament and others. Really enjoyed the day especially with Thenia who guided us to Mycenae, Nafplio, Epidaurus and Corinth last year. She was our guide for the Agora and Archaeological Museum. Thenia is wonderful! Our Driver Nikos was tremendous. The best ever! WarmPenguin Tours are great.
Response from the operator: Your wonderful review was really nice for all of us to read. Thank you so much for choosing us for your tour! We hope to see you back again in the future. Best Wishes from all of us at Warmpenguin Tours
via Tripadvisor
Amazing 1 Day Private Tour with Guide in Athens and Poseidon's Temple
This fantastic tour was just what we were hoping for with only 1 day to visit all the major sites in Athens. They even managed to fit in Poseidon's Temple with a lovely seaside lunch. If your time is limited, you want to skip the lines, and have an amazing private guide to all the sites, you can't do better than this tour! Thank you!!!
via Tripadvisor
Get the Guide, It’s a Must
Nice tour, but choose the guide and premium option if you’re interested. Anything less when on your own and it’s difficult to navigate the sites due to the massive crowds. Do yourself a favor and get the guide.
via Viator
Good to know
- Duration
- 7 hours
- Free cancellation
- Up to 24h before
- Minimum age to book
- All ages
- Availability
- Bookable today
- Runs on
- Every day
- Price range
- $73 to $1063
- Hotel pickup
- Included for all travelers
- Booked in 30 days
- 8
- Verdict
- Strongly Recommended
Why this scores 74
The Outty Ranking is a weighted composite. Here is how this experience performed on each component.
Essential Athens Highlights Full-Day Private Tour with Flexible Options: questions travelers ask
Practical detail on this experience, plus the wider planning questions for Athens.
How much does Essential Athens Highlights Full-Day Private Tour with Flexible Options cost?
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Prices start at $73 per person. The final price depends on the date, the time slot and the number of travelers, and peak weekends in Athens usually price higher than midweek mornings. Live pricing and remaining availability are confirmed on the booking screen before you pay.
How long does Essential Athens Highlights Full-Day Private Tour with Flexible Options take?
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Plan for about 7 hours from start to finish, not counting travel to the meeting point. Most travelers leave another 30 minutes on either side so the rest of the day in Athens is not rushed.
Is Essential Athens Highlights Full-Day Private Tour with Flexible Options worth it?
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It holds an Outty Ranking of 74 out of 100, which we label "Strongly Recommended". That score blends traveler sentiment (4.9/5 across 22 reviews), the depth of that review evidence, recent booking momentum, value for money against comparable last minute in Athens, and how flexible the cancellation terms are.
Can I cancel or reschedule Essential Athens Highlights Full-Day Private Tour with Flexible Options?
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Yes. Cancel free up to 24 hours before the start time for a full refund. Inside that window the booking is non-refundable, and no-shows are not refunded.
Is Essential Athens Highlights Full-Day Private Tour with Flexible Options suitable for kids and families?
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Yes, all ages are welcome. Families should still weigh the 7-hour running time, and strollers are easier on the earlier, quieter departures.
How far in advance should I book Essential Athens Highlights Full-Day Private Tour with Flexible Options?
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Around 8 people booked this in the last 30 days, so popular slots go early. Two to three weeks ahead is comfortable in shoulder season, while summer weekends and holidays in Athens can sell out a month out. Same-day spots do open up when other travelers cancel, so it is worth checking if you are already in town.
What should I bring or wear?
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Bring photo ID, your booking confirmation on your phone, a refillable water bottle and comfortable shoes. Dress for the weather in Athens and add a light layer if any part of the 7-hour experience runs outdoors or after sunset.
Where does Essential Athens Highlights Full-Day Private Tour with Flexible Options start and how do I get there?
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The exact meeting point and directions are on your voucher once you book, and they sit in central Athens within reach of public transport. Arrive 15 minutes early: late arrivals are treated as no-shows by most operators.
What are the best things to do in Athens?
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On Outty we rank every Athens experience on the same 0 to 100 scale, and alongside this one the highest scorers right now include Athens Small Group E-Bike Tour, Small Group Greek Traditional Food Tour in Athens 20+ Tastings, Athens Scenic Bike Tour with Regular or Electric Bike + Acropolis. The city page groups everything into most popular, highest reviewed, last minute and family-friendly so you can build a day around what actually delivers.
When is the best time to visit Athens?
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Booking patterns follow the same curve: prices and queues climb in peak weeks, while shoulder season gives you better availability on the top-ranked experiences and more room to change plans.
How many days do you need in Athens?
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Three full days covers the headline sights without sprinting. A workable rhythm is one anchor experience each morning, such as this one, an unhurried afternoon in a single neighborhood, then a food or nightlife booking in the evening. Five days lets you add a day trip outside the city.
Do I book through Outty or through the operator?
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Outty ranks and explains the experiences, then hands you to Viator to complete the booking with the operator directly. The price is the same as booking on Viator yourself, and Outty earns an affiliate commission on the referral, which is how the rankings stay free to read.
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