Acropolis, Plaka & Temple of Poseidon

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. Along the way, your narrated drive will pass a host of major sites including Hadrian's Arch, the Temple of Olympian Zeus, the National Gardens, and the University Library.

Ahead, the Acropolis dominates the landscape. Your guided walking tour begins as you climb the 80 steep steps through the Propylaea, the monumental marble gateway to the Acropolis. Once at the top, you'll be rewarded with spectacular views of Athens below.

Beyond the Propylaea, on the highest point of the Acropolis, stands the Parthenon, one of the greatest monuments of ancient civilization and a perfect representation of Doric-style architecture. Dedicated to the virgin goddess Athena, the white Pentelic marble temple was built 446 - 437 B.C. An enduring symbol of ancient Greece, the Parthenon has survived the passage of time, and its architectural sophistication still impresses all who study it.

On the north side of the Acropolis lays the Erectheum. This sacred site is where it is said it was decided which god would rule 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. On the south side of the building, you will discover the Porch of the Caryatids or Porch of the Maidens. Notice how these graceful sculptures are engineered to support the weight of the roof on the slender neck of each female figure.

Your motorcoach route to Plaka takes you past the Old Olympic Stadium for a brief photo opportunity (traffic permitting). This marble stadium was built to host the first modern Olympic Games in 1896.

Once in Plaka, you'll have an hour of free time to browse through this historic shopping district. The cobblestone pedestrian lanes are lined with boutiques, souvenir stands, jewelry stores, and flea market stalls offering a wide variety of items.

A wonderful hot and cold buffet lunch is served midday and includes a glass of wine and Greek pastries for dessert. Refreshed, you'll embark on a scenic one-hour drive down Attica's rugged western coast, taking in views of rocky coves and the deep-blue Saronic Gulf as you make your way to Cape Sounion.

Built on a cliff, the Temple of Poseidon looms majestically over the Aegean Sea. Your guide escorts you up the steep path to this 5th-century B.C. temple dedicated to the sea god. Built as an ancient site of worship, 15 of the original 34 white marble Doric columns remain. The setting is known to have inspired poet Lord Byron and if you look carefully at the columns, you will find his name chiseled into the marble, dating back to his first visit to Greece.

Your return drive to port is an opportunity to discuss with your guide and fellow travelers the fascinating sights you've seen throughout the day.

Special Notes:

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

The drive from Piraeus to Cape Sounion is approximately 1.5 hours each way.

Security restrictions at the Acropolis prohibit entrance with large bags and backpacks.

The tour involves climbing approximately 80 steps at the Acropolis.There will be a 10 minute walk from the motorcoach drop-off point to the Plaka area. In addition, you must walk approximately 500 yards from the drop-off point to the Temple of Poseidon, and you must walk over some uneven and slippery paths. Wear comfortable walking shoes. Passengers with limited mobility should take this into consideration before booking this tour.

Please be aware that ongoing restoration work is often carried out at the sites visited. Passengers should expect lines and crowds at the Acropolis.

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