Athens Markets Exploration Tour: From Ancient to Modern Times

You begin your Athens walking tour by meeting your local guide in Kotzia Square, one of Athens’ most beautiful squares that is surrounded by gorgeous neoclassical buildings of the early 19th century and ancient ruins.

Passing by the Mayor of Athens’ building, you’ll head to Athina Street, one of the busiest in Athens. Feel the morning vibes when the shop owners get ready for a day of business and Athenians flock to the city’s shops and markets, as they have done for the past 2,000 years. Your guide will explain the practices of food’s commerce, the soul of Greek life, which have existed for thousands of years.

While exploring Athenian markets, you’ll experience local produce and with your guide’s help, you’ll be able to pick out all the local favourites, such as Mediterranean fruits, vegetables, meat and cheese.

While exploring Athenian markets, you’ll experience local produce and with your guide’s help, you’ll be able to pick out all the local favourites, such as Mediterranean fruits, vegetables, meat and cheese.

After awakening your senses with all these warm colours, tastes, and smells, you’ll head to Monastiraki Square. Located in the center of the square, the Pantanassa Monastery is the square’s symbol, and the reason why the square is called Monastiraki as its name derives from the Greek word for monastery.

Here, you’ll also admire other Athens’ landmarks such as the Hadrian Library, an archaic temple constructed in the Corinthian-style, and the 18th-century Tzistarakis Mosque, which nowadays houses the ceramics museum.

Next, you’ll venture through the Square’s flea market where you’ll chat with merchants and discover ancient monuments as you uncover even more Athens history.

Moving on, you’ll explore the bazaar streets of Ifaistou and Pandrossos discovering handcrafts and other specialties such as leather sandals, handmade icons, Greek music instruments, and antiques. Here is the perfect place to feel the authentic vibes of the bustling Athens market culture.

Afterwards, walking by the ancient Agora, where merchants traded during Greek and Roman times, you’ll head to the vibrant neighbourhood of Thission, passing 17th and 18th-century old houses along the way.

Next up, you’ll explore Plaka neighborhood, Athens’ continuously inhabited area since ancient times, where you’ll enjoy a freshly brewed coffee and a local mouthwatering sweet in a cozy coffee shop.

Your tour comes to an end at the entrance of the Acropolis. From here, you can continue your personal exploration to the Acropolis Archaeological Site or Athens’ downtown, or follow your guide’s advice on the best way to get back to your hotel.

Before we part ways, your local guide will share with you more hints and tips on how to get the best of your trip in amazing Athens.