Visit Athens & admire the phenomenon of Evia Island 8-hour tour
A visit to Athens would not be complete without an 8-hour sightseeing trip to marvel at the wonder of Evia Island. Aimed at tourists coming with cruises or any other persons interested in the cultural as well as natural features, this tour combines a personal 8-hour journey around Athens’ city with observing the Evia Island phenomenon including some six hourly occurrences of various geologic phenomena as well as unique romantic sceneries.
Your day in Athens includes visits to
- The Acropolis Museum: Experience the grandeur of the Parthenon, Propylaea, Erechtheion, Temple of Athena Nike, Odeon of Herodes Atticus, Theater of Dionysus, and Mars Hill/Areopagus.
- Historic Athens: See the Temple of Olympian Zeus, the Panathenaic Stadium, the former Royal Palace, and witness the changing of the guard at the Greek Parliament and the Tomb of the Unknown Soldier.
- Plaka: This historic district, with its cobblestone streets, neoclassical architecture, and vibrant atmosphere, is a must-visit destination for anyone exploring the vibrant city of Athens.
- Panoramic Views: Enjoy breathtaking views of Athens from Lycabettus Hill on a panoramic sightseeing tour that includes highlights such as Hadrian’s Arch, Syntagma Square, the National Garden and more.
- Cross the second biggest bridge in Europe from mainland Greece to the island of Evia
- Observation of the world’s unique phenomenon of Chalki
- Professional English-speaking tour driver
- Pickup and drop off at your cruise ship pier in Piraeus, or your hotel in Athens
Panoramic Sightseeing Highlights (from inside the vehicle)
Hadrian’s Arch, Temple of Olympian Zeus, Syntagma Square, National Garden, Catholic Cathedral, Academy of Fine Arts, University of Athens, National Library, and Kolonaki, the prestigious area of Athens.
Embark on a journey through Athens that blends historical discovery with the luxury and ease of a private vehicle for a full day of exploration and excitement.
- Combines Athens modern and classical sites guided by our experts
- Explore the wonders of the new Acropolis Museum, the extension to the trademark of Athens, the Acropolis
- Highlights of modern Athens, including neighborhoods, Plaka, Constitution Square, Panathenian Stadium, Kolonaki-the high end of Athens, Lycabettus-the highest hill of Athens
- Chalcis town in Evia Island
- The new cable bridge of Calcis
- The unique phenomenon of Euripus waters
- The unique Evripus bridge
- English-speaking driver, willing to answer your questions about Athens, its history and monuments
- Pickup and drop off from your hotel in Athens or cruise terminal at the Port of Piraeus
Athens Acropolis
The Cradle of the western civilization!
Your personalized tour of Athens begins bright and early, departing from your accommodation or preferred location, such as your cruise terminal.
The pinnacle of our tour awaits – the awe-inspiring Acropolis of Athens, with its iconic Parthenon.
Here, we will marvel at the majestic Propylaea, the elegant Temple of Athena Nike, and the renowned Erechtheion, known for its infamous Caryatid statues and the exquisite Porch of Maidens.
The Area of Plaka
Plaka, the neighborhood of the Gods!
After the Acropolis, explore the colorful Plaka neighborhood, known for its charming cafes and amazing shops.
Plaka is one of the most picturesque areas of the city, where you can find lovely coffee shops to relax and browse tourist shops for memorable souvenirs to bring back home.
Immerse yourself in the quaint atmosphere of this historic district at the foot of the Acropolis.
Tomb of the Unknown Soldier and House of Parliament
The tour continues to significant landmarks like the Tomb of the Unknown Soldier and the House of Parliament at Syntagma Square.
Witness the changing of the guard ceremony at the Tomb of the Unknown Soldier, a monument dedicated to Greek soldiers who died in service.
Admire the neoclassical architecture of the Old Royal Palace, which now houses the Hellenic Parliament.
Panathenaic Stadium
Driving towards the Panathenaic Stadium, you’ll pass the imposing Hadrian’s Arch.
The Panathenaic Stadium, also known as Kallimarmaron, hosted the first modern Olympic Games in 1896. It is the only stadium in the world built entirely of marble. Learn about its fascinating history and imagine the excitement of ancient athletic competitions.
Trilogy of Athens
On Panepistimiou Avenue, see the Trilogy of Athens – the Academy, University, and National Library.
These neoclassical buildings are architectural gems. The Academy features statues of Athena and Apollo, while the University is the oldest higher education institution in Greece. The National Library holds an extensive collection of books and manuscripts.
Kolonaki and Lycabettus Hill
Experience modern Athens in the fashionable Kolonaki district, known for its upscale boutiques, trendy cafes, and art galleries. This chic neighborhood is a favorite among locals and offers a glimpse into contemporary Athenian life. Stroll along the tree-lined streets and enjoy the sophisticated atmosphere.
The tour concludes at Lycabettus Hill, the highest point in Athens. Take in stunning panoramic views of the city from this vantage point. Snap memorable photos and admire Athens from above, with its mix of ancient monuments and modern buildings stretching out before you. This final stop provides a perfect ending to your comprehensive tour of the city.
Later on, we will move further northwards along this same highway until when we get to Chalkis found on the island of Evia.
Chalcis (Chalkida)
Chalkida: Exploring the Enchanting Gateway to Evia Island
After almost one hour we’ll cross the bridge, that connects the mainland of Central Greece with the island of Evia. The second part of the tour is dedicated to the beautiful island of Evia or Evoia, starting with its capital town, Chalcis or Chalkida.
Just one hour from Athens, Chalcis has been “declared” in recent years the new suburb of the capital, due to its taverns with ouzo and meze for Sunday outings and the beautiful beaches to the north and south. Chalcis has the advantage that it extends along the coast, which allows splendid views almost from every part of the town.
The national road passes by the new suspension bridge, but the old sliding bridge Negroponte (the “black bridge”, as it was called by the Venetians) has not lost its grace.
From here you can watch the changing of the direction of water every six hours in the Evripos (Euripus) channel, a classic family attraction for the last decades.
Besides the lovely seaside aspect, Chalkida hides a very beautiful inside part as well. Stroll through the narrow streets with the carved stones, watch the store windows that combine old-fashioned dresses with contemporary fashion, to reach the Market Square, where there is a small flea market on Sundays. One of the most atmospheric neighborhoods of Chalkida spread around the church of Agia Paraskevi. Poor but picturesque houses dig up memories of the old Turkish neighborhood, while the nearby Syntagma Square raises the minaret of the only extant mosque of the city.
Euripus (Evripos), the first drawbridge in the world is located in Greece and is designed and built by Greeks
The water-flow in Evripos channel, Chalkis
One of the most significant highlights of Chalcis is the tide of the Evripos channel. The tide of Euripus is a unique complex phenomenon, which due to tidal forces is observed only in the Strait of Euripus in Chalkida, hence the name.
The channel of Euripus is a narrow strip of sea width 39 m, length 40 m, and a depth of about 8,5 m connecting the North with the South Evia Gulf, between Central Greece and Chalkida. In this area, you can see the unique complex phenomenon: waters moving continuously while changing the direction of movement. Sometimes the water is directed towards the North and sometimes to the South Evian Gulf.
This constant movement of the waters has inspired the imagination of the ancient and modern Greeks; hence, numerous poems and texts have been written about it, either praising its charm or discussing its origins. It was said that this phenomenon is so unique that the great Aristotle did not manage to solve the mystery throughout his lifetime.
The old bridge of Chalkida is built on the narrowest part of the channel, allowing a great observation to point for those interested in watching the reversion of water flow, which takes place every six hours. The position of the moon determines the exact reversion time. From there, you will be able to take some truly gorgeous pictures or videos of the phenomenon.
Transfer back to Piraeus cruise ship pier or your accommodation in Athens, where your Athens private shore excursion ends, carrying with you the best of Greece.
Special Notes:
Due to certain restrictions in the visiting hours of the Acropolis, the order of the program can be changed. Alternatively, you can visit the Acropolis Museum or any other museum that would be open.
Highly recommended for cruise passengers, visiting Athens for hours to enjoy this spectacular private cruise shore excursion
Resources:
- View the route of the tour on Google maps
- Acropolis, the complete visitor’s guide
- Parthenon, the crown jewel of Athens
- Temple of Athena Nike
- Euripus, the first drawbridge in the world is located in Greece (Chalkida on Evia Island)
Tour Type
- Shore Excursion – Private tour
- Activity level: Moderate
Included in the tour
- Transport by air-conditioned Mercedes-Benz vehicle or similar appropriate for the size of your group
- Your tour will be accompanied by a professional English-speaking driver or escort possessing in-depth knowledge of Greece’s history and culture. They will provide insightful commentary throughout the journey, guiding you until the entrance of archaeological sites and museums. However, please note that drivers are not licensed to accompany you inside these venues.
- If you desire a licensed state tour guide to escort you within the archaeological sites and museums, providing comprehensive insights and explanations, we can gladly arrange one for an additional cost. These licensed guides are freelance professionals, and their availability is subject to your tour date.
- When a licensed tour guide or English-speaking tour escort accompanies a group, the professional driver may not necessarily speak English fluently. Their role is focused on providing safe transportation.
- Pick up and drop off at your hotel in Athens. Extra charge for hotels outside Athens.
- Pick up and drop off at Piraeus Port or Athens Airport.
- Pick up and drop off at our terminal: Leof. Andrea Siggrou 37, 117 43 Athens, Greece.
- Accommodation is based according to availability (for multiple-day tours only)
- Road tolls and all local taxes
Excluded from the tour
- Wine tasting fee (for wine tours)
- Olive oil tasting fee (for olive oil tasting tours)
- Optional Gratuities
- Food and beverage
- Your private chauffeur/guide will discuss a program best suited to your interest and mobile abilities. Option for a professional tour guide with a state license at an extra cost. Read more for the Differences between a Tour Guide and a Tour Driver
Cancellation Policy
Additional info
- Dress Code: When visiting religious sites, shoulders and knees must be covered out of respect for the cultural norms.
- Please review our Terms & Conditions and Frequently Asked Questions
- Upon booking, an electronic voucher will be emailed to you containing our contact information, tour details, and all necessary instructions. This voucher serves as your ticket and proof of purchase. Please present a printed or digital copy of the voucher on the day of your tour to redeem your activity.
- City Tax for Hotel Stays: Effective from January 1st, 2018, a City Tax for hotel overnights is applicable and not included in our excursion rates. Clients will need to pay this tax directly at their hotel upon check-out. The amount per room is as follows: 5-star hotel: €4/overnight || 4-star hotel: €3/overnight || 3-star hotel: €1.50/overnight
- Opening Hours and Entrance Fees for Archaeological Sites and Museums in Greece
- Entrance Fees for Children from Non-EU Countries: Starting November 1st, 2019, children aged 6 and above from non-European Union (non-EU) countries will be required to pay the full entrance fee for Museums and Archaeological sites. For children from EU countries, the existing rates remain in effect. However, it is crucial to have their passports readily available to prove their nationality.
Persons with Disabilities
- Due to uneven surfaces, certain sites are not recommended for persons with walking disabilities or using a wheelchair. Such sites are the Acropolis, the Temple of Poseidon at Sounion, Mycenae, Delphi and Meteora
- In all cases, we recommend comfortable flat-solid walking shoes, sunglasses, and sunscreen.
