City Drive & Acropolis Museum

Description

Be sure to read the Special Notes further down this page for important requirements and restriction.

Board your motorcoach for a 30- to 40-minute scenic drive into the heart of Athens. The city's interesting blend of old and new architecture is immediately apparent as you approach your first stop, the New Acropolis Museum.

At the base of the Acropolis, with a direct view of the Parthenon, is the New Acropolis Museum, a stunning blend of past and present. This modern 5-story structure by architect Bernard Tschumi was designed to allow this rich collection of antiquities and sculptures to be seen in natural light. Artifacts depicting everyday life in Athens during all periods of history are dramatically showcased within glass-floored galleries. The pièce de résistance is the top floor, where visitors can see the frieze from the Parthenon, then turn around for a view of the actual Parthenon through enormous glass windows.

After viewing the museum's exquisite collection of artifacts, which were found at the base of the archeological site, take a short drive to a lookout point and view the Acropolis itself. As you gaze upon the spectacular ruins, your knowledgeable guide will describe the history of these great temples and significant buildings, including the famed Parthenon, one of the greatest monuments in ancient civilization. Dedicated to the virgin goddess Athena, the Pentelic marble temple was built 446 - 437 B.C., and its architectural sophistication and Doric style have captivated visitors for centuries. Although the remaining structure appears to be stark white marble, experts now believe that at one time much of the detail work on the building was brightly colored.

A nearby shop sells souvenirs from this historic area, and your tour includes time to browse for gifts and mementos.

Continue with a narrated city tour that passes a host of major sites, including the statue of Lord Byron, Constitution Square, the former Royal Palace, the National Gardens, the Academy, and the University Library. In addition, a photo stop will be made at the Old Olympic Stadium (traffic permitting). This marble stadium was built to host the first modern Olympic Games in 1896 and was used again in the 2004 Olympics for the finish of the marathon and the archery competition. Your tour concludes with a drive back to port.

Special Notes:

This tour is not available to passengers beginning or ending their voyage in Piraeus (Athens).

Please be aware that ongoing restoration work is often carried out at the sites visited
Use of an audio headset (included) will enhance your tour experience..