Shore Excursions

Shore Excursions

Best Tours in Athens
See More Tours

Shore Excursions in Athens Greece

Aerial view of the famous luxury beach Astir in south Athens, bay of Vouliagmeni, Greece, with water sports over turquoise sea

Exploring Athens, Greece, offers an array of shore excursion tours that promise unforgettable experiences for travellers. Athens has many sights to see at the Piraeus Cruise Port and throughout the city. You can arrive by cruise or explore independently. The city offers a variety of attractions for visitors. The Piraeus Cruise Port is a popular starting point for exploring Athens. There are also many historical and cultural landmarks to visit in the city. 

Athens is steeped in history and culture, making it a treasure trove of attractions and activities. Shore excursions often begin with visits to iconic landmarks like the Acropolis, a symbol of ancient Greece. Here, travellers can marvel at the Parthenon, the Temple of Athena Nike. And also, other ancient sites. Guided tours provide fascinating insights into the history and significance of these archaeological wonders.

Day trips from Athens allow you to explore nearby ancient sites for those interested in Greek history. Visitors can take trips to places such as Delphi, a sanctuary dedicated to the god Apollo. They can also visit Corinth, an ancient city known for its rich history and old ruins. Private shore excursions provide personalized experiences, allowing travellers to tailor their itinerary to their interests and preferences.

Athens is not only renowned for its ancient landmarks but also for its vibrant culture and modern attractions. Shore excursions often include visits to bustling neighbourhoods like Plaka. This is where travellers can wander through narrow streets lined with shops, cafes, and tavernas. The Monastiraki flea market is another popular destination, offering everything from souvenirs to antiques.

Food lovers will delight in the culinary experiences available in Athens. Highly recommended are traditional Greek tavernas, where visitors can sample authentic dishes like moussaka, souvlaki, and tzatziki. Athens has a lively street food scene, with vendors selling gyros and loukoumades (Greek donuts).For those seeking a more leisurely experience, Athens offers plenty of options for relaxation and rejuvenation. Visitors can indulge in spa treatments, take leisurely strolls through scenic parks, or simply soak up the sun on one of the city's beautiful beaches.

Nature enthusiasts will appreciate the scenic beauty surrounding Athens. Day trips often include visits to picturesque coastal areas like Cape Sounion, home to the stunning Temple of Poseidon. These are one of the best tours in Greece. Here, travellers can admire ancient ruins while taking in breathtaking views of the Aegean Sea. Many shore excursions also offer opportunities to explore the beautiful beaches that dot the Athenian coastline. 

Athens tours offer a diverse range of experiences for travellers. Whether you're interested in history, culture, food, or nature, there's something for everyone to enjoy. With guided tours, day trips, and private excursions available, exploring Athens and its surroundings promises to be an unforgettable adventure.

Tour Highlights

  • Explore the iconic Acropolis, including the Parthenon and Temple of Athena Nike.
  • Wander through the historic Plaka neighbourhood, known for its charming streets and traditional tavernas.
  • Visit the Acropolis Museum to marvel at ancient artifacts and sculptures.
  • Enjoy panoramic views of Athens and the Aegean Sea from Cape Sounion.
  • Discover new things to see in Athens like the ancient city of Corinth and its archaeological remains.
  • Experience the bustling Monastiraki flea market, offering a variety of souvenirs and local goods.
  • Relax on the beautiful beaches of the Athenian Riviera, such as Glyfada and Vouliagmeni.
  • Take a day cruise to the nearby Greek islands, including Hydra, Poros, and Aegina.
  • Enjoy a traditional Greek meal at a local taverna, sampling dishes like moussaka and souvlaki.

Visitor Highlights

  • Wander through the picturesque streets of Plaka, lined with shops and cafes.
  • Explore the fascinating exhibits at the Acropolis Museum, showcasing artifacts from ancient Greece.
  • Visit the historic Monastiraki flea market for unique souvenirs and local treats.
  • Embark on a day cruise to the nearby Greek islands of Hydra, Poros, and Aegina.
  • Discover the archaeological site of Delphi, known for its ancient ruins and Oracle of Apollo.
  • Indulge in traditional Greek cuisine at a local taverna, sampling dishes like moussaka and tzatziki.
  • Enjoy a leisurely stroll through the National Garden or along the scenic Filopappou Hill.

Travel Tips

  • Plan ahead and book your shore excursions or transportation in advance to avoid last-minute hassles.
  • Check the weather forecast before your trip and pack accordingly, especially if you plan to spend time outdoors.
  • Wear comfortable shoes for walking, as many shore excursions involve exploring historical sites and neighbourhoods on foot.
  • Stay hydrated and carry a refillable water bottle to keep yourself refreshed throughout the day.
  • Be mindful of your belongings, especially in crowded areas like markets and tourist sites.
  • Familiarize yourself with local customs and etiquette to show respect for the culture and traditions of Greece.
  • Consider purchasing a city pass or hop-on-hop-off bus ticket for convenient access to popular attractions and transportation.
  • Opt for early morning or late afternoon tours to avoid the crowds and make the most of your time at each destination. 
  • Exchange currency or carry local cash for small purchases and transactions, as not all vendors may accept credit cards.
  • Don’t forget to bring a camera or smartphone to capture memorable moments during your shore excursions in Athens.

Know Before You Go

What to bring

  • Weather-appropriate clothing.
  • Comfortable shoes.
  • Passport or ID card.
  • Water.
  • Sunscreen.
  • Guidebook or map.
  • Portable phone charger.

What not to bring

  • Pets.
  • Drones.
  • Aerosol sprays.
  • Any kind of weapons or sharp objects.
  • Luggage or large bags, including smaller bags with wheels.

Getting There

By Bus

Utilize the efficient public bus system to reach various shore excursion destinations from Athens.

By Walking

Some attractions may be within walking distance from the cruise port, offering a scenic journey through the city.

By Private Transfer

Arrange for a private transfer or shuttle service to take you directly to your chosen destination.

By Taxi

Hail a taxi for a convenient and quick transportation option to shore excursion sites.

By Cruise Ship

Many shore excursions are organized directly from the cruise ship, providing easy access to popular Athen’s attractions.

By Hop-On-Hop-Off Bus

Hop on a sightseeing bus tour to reach key attractions and landmarks in Athens and beyond.