First Access Acropolis Tour, Beat the Crowds, Enjoy the Parthenon

Athens , Greece

First Access Acropolis Tour, Beat the Crowds, Enjoy the Parthenon

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(128 reviews)

For a full refund, cancel at least 24 hours before the scheduled departure time.

Instant confirmation

Mobile or paper ticket accepted

About this experience

Join our Early Bird Acropolis Tour and beat the heat and crowds! Starting from the main entrance, we'll head straight to the Parthenon and see the famous Caryatids at the Erechteion. Our licensed guide will share fascinating myths and historical facts about these iconic monuments as you enjoy panoramic 360 views of Athens. We'll then head towards the south entrance, passing by the Asklepeion, Odeon of Herodes Atticus, and Dionysus Theatre. Capture more stunning views and delve deeper into the Acropolis's rich history. Please note, even in the morning, it can still be hot and crowded and that even with our skip-the-ticket-line service, there might be some waiting time required for security checks. This is because visitor numbers can fluctuate unpredictably at the sites throughout the day. The typical waiting time falls within 0 to 10 or 30 minutes, though on rare occasions, it might be longer.

Available options

Tour WITH admission ticket

With Admission Ticket : The admission tickets are included in the price

WITHOUT ticket

WITHOUT ticket:: With this option, it's up to you to purchase your admission tickets from the official site

Tour WITH admission ticket '25

WITH admission ticket: With this option admission tickets to the Acropolis are included

What's included

Athens Map

Earsets to better hear the guide

Professional local licensed guide

Athens Guide magazine for ideas on things to do

Skip-the-ticket line service

Detailed itinerary

Perched majestically above Athens, the Acropolis is an ancient citadel on a rocky hill, inviting visitors to explore iconic temples like the Parthenon and discover the birthplace of Western civilization.

Stop 2

The Propylaea serves as the entrance gate to the Acropolis, impressively framed by a marble structure that adds to the grandeur of this sacred monument. With the guidance of your expert tour guide, you'll gain insight into how the Propylaea may have appeared in ancient times, allowing you to visualize the splendor and significance of this iconic gateway.

Stop 3

Positioned prominently to the right of the Propylaea, the Temple of Athena Nike stands as a captivating monument with equally intriguing myths surrounding its creation. On our tour, you'll have the opportunity to learn about the fascinating history and significance of this temple.

Stop 4

Named after the mythical king of Athens, Erechtheus, the Erechtheion is a temple dedicated to the goddess Athena. This significant temple holds many secrets and is home to some of the most well-known myths about Athens.

Stop 5

The Parthenon, an unparalleled masterpiece of beauty and unique architecture that has dominated the center of Athens for over 2,000 years. During the tour, our knowledgeable guides will share captivating myths, stories, and historical facts about this amazing building, providing insight into the cultural and architectural significance of the Parthenon.

Stop 6

A Roman theater constructed by Herodes Atticus as a tribute to his beloved wife, Wide Aspasia. But was it solely an act of love or something more? Join us on our tour to uncover the secrets behind this stunning monument

Stop 7

Dedicated to the god of wine and fertility, Dionysus, it holds the honor of being the birthplace of theater. Athenians flocked to this open-air amphitheater to witness plays by renowned Greek playwrights, including Aeschylus, Sophocles, and Euripides.

What's not included

Entrance fees (can be booked as an option at an additional cost)

Gratuities

Hotel pick-up and drop-off service

Food and beverages

Available languages

Guide guide

Reviews breakdown

Viator 4.9

107 reviews

5★

4★

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1★

Tripadvisor 4.7

21 reviews

5★

4★

3★

2★

1★

Important information

Public transportation options are available nearby

Not recommended for travelers with poor cardiovascular health

Travelers should have at least a moderate level of physical fitness

Strict Acropolis entry times mean we can't wait for latecomers. No refunds will be given.

All visitors undergo airport-style security; expect peak season waits of up to 30+ minutes.

Cutoff times sync with Athens local time.

Tours run rain or shine.

If you selected the WITHOUT ticket option follow the instructions on your voucher to purchase the tickets

When entrance to the Acropolis is free, the cost of the entrance fee is already deducted from the tour price

Meeting point

ACROPOLIS MAIN ENTRANCE
Our staff, holding the orange Athens Walking Tours sign, will be waiting for you at the main Acropolis Entrance, across the canteen. Please be at the meeting 15 minutes prior to tour departure time.

Important notes

1. Please be at the meeting point 15 minutes prior to the given tour departure time.
2. Comfortable walking shoes, sun-screen & a hat are recommended
3. If you select the WITHOUT entry ticket option, you must purchase your Entrance Tickets separately here https://athenswalkingtours.link-twist.com/product/acropolisadmissiontickets-tourupgrade
• Select the correct category (e.g. Adult, Student) and enter your Booking Reference Number.
• If you select the WITH entry ticket option, your Entrance Tickets are already included — no further action needed.
• If you're eligible for a reduced or free Entrance Ticket, please bring official documentation or/and a valid ID showing your age and nationality.
Failure to present an ID may result in denied entry or a need to pay the full ticket price (subject to availability). In such cases, the tour fee is non-refundable.
4. Be On Time: Acropolis has strict timed entry. Latecomers cannot be accommodated or refunded.
6. All visitors undergo airport-style security; expect peak season waits of up to 30+ minutes.
7. Not suitable for mobility impairments, wheelchairs, or strollers.
8. Cutoff times sync with Athens local time.
9. Tours run rain or shine.
10. Strollers and big backpacks are not allowed

About Athens

Athens, the capital of Greece, is a city rich in history and culture, often considered the cradle of Western civilization. It is home to iconic ancient landmarks, vibrant neighborhoods, and a thriving modern scene.

Top Attractions

Acropolis of Athens

The Acropolis is the most iconic landmark in Athens, featuring ancient ruins and temples, including the Parthenon.

Historical 2-3 hours €20 (combined ticket for multiple sites)

Ancient Agora of Athens

The heart of ancient Athens, featuring the Temple of Hephaestus and the Stoa of Attalos.

Historical 1-2 hours €8 (included in the combined ticket)

Plaka

A charming, historic neighborhood with narrow streets, neoclassical houses, and vibrant nightlife.

Cultural 2-3 hours Free to explore

Acropolis Museum

A modern museum showcasing artifacts from the Acropolis and its surroundings.

Museum 1-2 hours €10

Temple of Olympian Zeus

An ancient temple dedicated to Zeus, once the largest temple in Greece.

Historical 30 minutes to 1 hour €6 (included in the combined ticket)

Must-Try Local Dishes

Moussaka

A baked dish with layers of eggplant, minced meat, and béchamel sauce.

Dinner Vegetarian versions available

Souvlaki

Grilled meat skewers, often served with pita bread and tzatziki.

Snack Can be made with chicken, pork, or vegetarian options

Tzatziki

A yogurt-based dip with cucumber, garlic, and herbs.

Snack Vegetarian and vegan options available

Baklava

A sweet pastry made with layers of filo, nuts, and honey syrup.

Dessert Vegetarian

Popular Activities

Hiking in the mountains Rock climbing Scuba diving Beach visits Spa treatments Café hopping Museum visits Theater performances

Best Time to Visit

April to June, September to October

The best time to visit Athens is during the spring and autumn months when the weather is pleasant and the tourist crowds are smaller.

18°C to 32°C 64°F to 90°F

Practical Information

Language

Official: Greek
Widely spoken: English, French, German
English: Moderately spoken

Currency

Euro (EUR)

Time Zone

GMT+2 (EET)

Electricity

230VV, 50HzHz

Safety Information

Overall Safety Rating: Generally safe

Athens is generally safe for travelers, but petty crime and pickpocketing can occur in tourist areas. Be cautious with your belongings and avoid poorly lit areas at night.

Important Precautions:

• Keep valuables secure
• Use licensed taxis or ride-sharing apps
• Be cautious with ATMs and credit cards

Getting there

By air

Eleftherios Venizelos International Airport • 30 km from city center

By train

Athens Central Railway Station

By bus

KTEL Bus Station

Getting around

Public transport

Clean, efficient, and air-conditioned. Easy to navigate with clear signage in English.

Taxis

Available • Apps: Beat, Uber

Rentals

Car, Bike, Scooter

Neighborhoods

Plaka Monastiraki Psiri Koukaki Kolonaki

Day trips

Cape Sounion

65 km from Athens • Half day to full day

A scenic coastal area featuring the Temple of Poseidon with stunning views of the Aegean Sea.

Delphi

180 km from Athens • Full day

An ancient archaeological site and home to the famous Oracle of Delphi.

Meteora

350 km from Athens • Overnight

A unique landscape featuring rock formations and medieval monasteries perched atop cliffs.

Festivals

Athens Festival • May to October Athens Epidaurus Festival • June to August Athens International Film Festival • October

Pro tips

Visit major attractions early in the morning or late in the afternoon to avoid crowds and heat
Use the metro for easy and efficient travel around the city
Explore local neighborhoods for an authentic Greek experience
Try local street food for a quick and delicious meal
Learn a few basic Greek phrases to enhance your experience and connect with locals