Acropolis & City Drive

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. Ahead, the mighty Acropolis dominates the landscape. Your guided walking tour begins there, as you climb the 80 steep steps through the Propylaea, the monumental gateway that extends 150 feet across its western side. From there, the views of the city of Athens below are incredible.

Beyond the Propylaea, on the highest point of the Acropolis, stands the Parthenon, one of the greatest monuments of ancient civilization. Dedicated to the virgin goddess Athena, the white Pentelic marble temple was built 446 - 437 B.C. Its architectural sophistication has captivated visitors for centuries.

Beyond the Parthenon lies the Erectheum, situated on the most sacred site of the Acropolis, where Athena and Poseidon are said to have held a contest to decide who would be Patron of the city. When Poseidon thrust his trident into the ground, water burst forth, but when Athena touched the ground with her spear and an olive tree grew, she was named ruler of the city. The building itself contains the graceful Porch of the Caryatids, which features replica columns of marble maidens supporting the roof of the temple. Local legend says that when Lord Elgin took one of the maidens to decorate his Scottish mansion, you could hear the other statues crying in the night.

Your Athens tour continues as you drive through the city viewing its major highlights. Your narrated drive will cover a host of celebrated sites, including Hadrian's Arch, the statue of Lord Byron, the Temple of Olympian Zeus, Constitution Square, the former Royal Palace, the National Gardens, the Academy, and the University Library.

Along the way you will pass the Old Olympic Stadium, where a brief photo stop is offered. Re-built to host the first modern Olympic Games in 1896, and used again in the 2004 Olympics for the finish of the marathon and the archery competition, this marble stadium stands on the site of the original stadium of Ancient Athens, which dated from the 4th century B.C. At the completion of your tour you will return to the pier.

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.

Security restrictions at the Acropolis prohibit entrance with large bags and backpacks. Passengers should expect lines and crowds at the Acropolis.

The tour involves climbing approximately 80 steps at the Acropolis as well as walking over some uneven and slippery paths. Wear comfortable walking shoes. Passengers with limited mobility should take this into consideration before booking this tour.

Use of an audio headset (included) will enhance your tour experience.