Athens Shore Excursion: Perfect for First-Time Cruise Visitors

Athens Shore Excursion: Perfect for First-Time Cruise Visitors

By Vexperio

Free cancellation available

See tickets

Features

Free cancellation available
6h
Mobile voucher
Instant confirmation

Overview

Your first cruise ship trip to Athens? This shore excursion is the perfect way to discover the city’s treasures. Meet your guide at Piraeus Port and travel in an air-conditioned minibus to see key sights: explore the Acropolis on your own or opt for an easier nearby viewpoint, watch the iconic Changing of the Guard ceremony, and stroll Plaka’s historic streets, perfect for photos. Enjoy around an hour to shop for souvenirs, savour souvlaki, or relax at a café with Acropolis views. With a small group, this short tour ensures ample time to return to your ship, or we refund if it can’t dock.

First-Time Visitor Focus: Lively, clear stories make Athens easy to explore.
Flexible Sights: Choose the Acropolis or an easier nearby viewpoint.
Photo-Worthy Stops: Changing of the Guard and Plaka’s Greek charm.

Activity location

Port of Piraeus
- Akti Miaouli 10
- 185 38, Piraeus, Greece

Meeting/Redemption Point

Cruise Terminal B - Piraeus
- 185 38, Piraeus, Greece

Check availability

Round-Trip without Acropolis

6h
English

Shared Tour: This is a shared tour, you will be travelling with other passengers on the bus. Limited to 19 people per guide.
Piraeus Port Pickup & Dropoff: The tour starts and ends at the Piraeus cruise ship port.
No Acropolis Visit: This option does not include Acropolis entry; instead, guests will explore Areopagus Hill and the Odeon of Herodes Atticus.

Travellers

Language options: English

Starting time

Price details

AU$212.05 x 1 AdultAU$212.05

Total

Round-Trip with Acropolis

6h
English

Shared Tour: This is a shared tour, you will be travelling with other passengers on the bus. Limited to 19 people per guide.
Acropolis Tickets included: This option already includes Acropolis tickets which the guide will bring for you.
Acropolis Self-Guided Visit: The guide will walk with you to the entrance of the Acropolis, explain what to expect, and wait for you outside.
Piraeus Port Pickup & Dropoff: The tour starts and ends at the Piraeus cruise ship port.

Travellers

Language options: English

Starting time

Price details

AU$265.51 x 1 AdultAU$265.51

Total

What's included, what's not

Free time for fast meal & souvenir shopping
Modern, comfortable, air-conditioned minibus
1 piece per person luggage storage (Disembark Tour only - if you have more, please contact us)
Professional local English-speaking tour guide (if option selected)
Full refund if your ship cannot dock
Tour options 'with Acropolis' include a ticket to the Acropolis
Small Groups: 19 guests per guide for Round-Trip Tour and 15 guests per guide for Disembark Tour
Guaranteed return to ship on time
Please note the options 'without Acropolis' do not include an Acropolis ticket.
For private tours Acropolis entry ticket is not included, it is an optional visit
Service charge (Recommend 10% for guides, and 5% for bus drivers)
Food and drinks
Private Tour (if option not selected)

Know before you book

Infants are required to sit on an adult’s lap
Not recommended for travellers with spinal injuries
Not recommended for travellers with poor cardiovascular health
Travellers should have at least a moderate level of physical fitness
Please note that the Acropolis may close due to extreme heat for safety reasons. If this happens and you've booked entry tickets, you will be able to get a full refund. We will notify you accordingly.
This tour begins and ends at Piraeus Port. If you're disembarking from your cruise and staying in Athens, you may bring your luggage on the bus. You can end the tour at our final stop in Monastiraki, before the bus returns to the port. Please inform us in advance so we can accommodate your plans.
IMPORTANT ACCESSIBILITY INFORMATION: Please note that visiting the Acropolis requires extensive walking, including climbing 75 steps at the entrance and navigating uneven, slippery marble paths. This can be physically demanding, especially during summer when crowds are large, and temperatures can be high. For those with limited mobility, we recommend following the guide and exploring Areopagus and Herodion instead.
Please note that this tour involves walking, including on uneven surfaces, and is not suitable for individuals with mobility limitations. Wheelchairs, walkers, scooters, or similar mobility aids cannot be accommodated. We kindly ask you to assess your ability to participate before booking, as refunds cannot be issued if, on the day of the tour, you are unable to join due to mobility-related concerns.

Activity itinerary

Port of Piraeus

As soon as your cruise ship docks, a friendly team will be there to greet you right in front of the ship. From there, you'll be escorted to a modern, comfortable, and air-conditioned minibus, designed to make your journey as relaxing as it is enjoyable. Prepare for an unforgettable adventure as you explore the fascinating history and vibrant culture of Athens. Let your exploration begin!

Pasalimani (Pass by)

As you leave Piraeus Port, you’ll pass by Pasalimani, a lively harbour tucked in the heart of the city. The waterfront is lined with cafés and small shops, while the marina itself is filled with sleek yachts and colourful sailboats. It’s a relaxing, scenic drive that gives you a first glimpse of Greece’s everyday maritime life.

Mikrolimano (Pass by)

As the drive continues, you’ll pass Mikrolimano, another small harbour much like Pasalimani. If traffic allows, your guide will make a short stop so you can take photos of the sea, the boats, and the view of the city around you.

Temple of Olympian Zeus (Pass by)

Next, you’ll pass the Temple of Olympian Zeus, one of the largest temples ever built in ancient times. Though only a few of its massive Corinthian columns still stand, their size and detail are easy to see from the road. Dedicated to Zeus, the king of the gods, this historic site offers a clear look at the scale and ambition of ancient Athens—even in its ruined state.

Arch of Hadrian (Pass by)

As you continue your drive, you’ll pass the Arch of Hadrian—a tall, stone gateway built to honour the Roman emperor. It once marked the boundary between old Athens and the newer Roman city. Even from the road, you can see its detailed design and strong, simple lines. It’s a clear reminder of how Greek and Roman history come together in the heart of Athens.

Panathenaic Stadium

Next, you’ll see the Panathenaic Stadium, also called Kallimarmaro. Made entirely of marble, this historic site once hosted the Panathenaic Games in ancient Athens. Its long, open shape and stone seating make it easy to imagine crowds gathering here centuries ago. Still used for special events today, the stadium stands as a clear reminder of Greece’s deep connection to sports and tradition.

Acropolis

1h
Admission ticket not included

For those who choose to visit the Acropolis, your guide will walk you to the entrance. From there, you’ll explore the site on your own. At the centre stands the Parthenon, known for its design and its place in the history of democracy—an important symbol of ancient Athens. Please note: Visiting the Acropolis requires climbing 75 steps and walking across uneven, often slippery marble paths. In summer, it can be hot and crowded. If you have limited mobility, you may prefer to stay with the guide and visit Areopagus and Herodion instead.

Areopagus Hill

For those who choose not to walk up to the Acropolis, your guide will lead you to Areopagus Hill, a historic site just below the main entrance. In ancient times, this hill was home to Athens’ high court and was known for legal debates, political decisions, and public discussions. The large rocks under your feet were once worn smooth by centuries of use. From here, you’ll enjoy wide, open views of the Acropolis above, the city stretching out below, and the hills beyond—all without the steep climb.

Odeon of Herodes Atticus

Next, your guide will lead you to the Odeon of Herodes Atticus, also known as the Herodion, located on the southern side of the Acropolis. Built in 161 AD by the Roman official Herodes Atticus in memory of his wife, this stone theatre is still used for performances today. With its high arches and tiered seating, it stands as one of Athens’ most recognisable landmarks and a lasting piece of the city’s Roman-era history.

Syntagma Square

Then, you’ll return to the bus and head to Syntagma Square, the central gathering place of modern Athens. Located in front of the Hellenic Parliament and the Tomb of the Unknown Soldier, the square is known for its changing of the guard ceremony. Every hour, the Evzones—Greece’s elite Presidential Guards—carry out this formal tradition in full uniform. You’ll make a stop here to watch the ceremony up close and take in this well-known part of Greek public life.

The Academy of Athens

Next, you’ll see the University of Athens, the oldest university in Greece, known for its neoclassical architecture, grand entrance, and tall marble columns. Just a short distance away is the National Library of Greece, another striking example of neoclassical design, with elegant staircases and detailed stonework. Alongside these buildings stands the Academy of Athens, home to statues of great Greek philosophers such as Socrates, Plato, and Aristotle. Together, these three form the neoclassical trilogy. If traffic allows, your guide will make a photo stop so you can capture the full view of these impressive and historic landmarks.

Monastiraki

Finally, you’ll arrive at Monastiraki, a lively square known for its busy markets, traditional shops, and colourful street life. The area is full of energy, with locals and visitors moving through narrow lanes lined with stalls and small stores selling everything from handmade crafts to one-of-a-kind souvenirs. You’ll have time to explore at your own pace, take photos, and enjoy the sights and sounds. It’s also a great spot to try authentic Greek food at a local restaurant or relax with a coffee at a nearby café.

Plaka

The tour will conclude in Plaka, one of the oldest and most beloved areas in Athens. Often called the “Old City,” Plaka sits just below the Acropolis and is known for its narrow alleys, traditional homes, and peaceful feel. As you explore, you’ll find small shops selling handmade crafts, jewellery, and local goods. It’s also a perfect place to enjoy a quiet meal or drink at a local café or taverna. Whether you’re walking through its winding streets or simply taking in the view, Plaka offers a calm, lasting impression of Athens and its deep history.

Cruise Terminal A (Pass by)

At the end of the tour, you’ll return to your cruise ship feeling relaxed and fulfilled. From ancient ruins to lively areas, you’ve seen the best of Athens in a calm, well-paced way. With helpful guidance and smooth transport throughout the day, this experience offers a thoughtful, memorable introduction to one of the world’s most historic cities.

Location

Activity location

Port of Piraeus
- Akti Miaouli 10
- 185 38, Piraeus, Greece

Meeting/Redemption Point

Cruise Terminal B - Piraeus
- 185 38, Piraeus, Greece

Best Deals on Things to Do

Experience the wonders of the world up close with great deals on things to do near and far. We offer one-of-a-kind activities that allow you to explore Piraeus your way. Whether you love nature, culture, food or a bit of adventure, we have the perfect activity for you.