Byzantine and Ottoman Athens Tour
Active
3h - 4h
For a full refund, cancel at least 24 hours before the scheduled departure time.
Instant confirmation
Mobile or paper ticket accepted
About this experience
It is a comprehensive visit to Plaka offering a guided tour to important monuments and landmarks related to the Byzantine and Ottoman periods of Athens, both of which gave Athens its modern identity.
We visit Byzantine Churches and historical landmarks on the streets of Athens . We see and speak about frescoes and icons. There is an option that we visit a monastery in the middle of the capital. There is an option to vist the Smyrna Refugees landmarks in Piraeus. In this case we visit less churches in Plaka.
The tour is suitable for people who like to walk and want to learn new cultures, or are accustomed to the Ottoman and Christian interaction. Τhe tour comprises entrance to relevant museums (no added cost)
Available options
20th century
MORE SIGHTS: We will visit The Rebetis Bridge and the Lipasmata Park in Piraeus.For keen walkers
Byzantine and Ottoman Athens Tour
What's included
In-person guide which the driver also
Small talk and personal stories from the lives of Byzantine Emperors
Detailed itinerary
1
Stop 1
Pass by
The story of the mosque
2
Stop 2
We will talk about the architecture, the story of the church, and the life and deeds of two martyrs. We will visit the heirloom
3
Visit the mansion and see the architecture and operation of each part of it. Alms are welcomed
4
Stop 4
Its story and architecture
5
The Byzantine architecture, the interior of the church, secret stories about famous byzantine personalities, the role of women in Byzantium, an iconic item
6
The story of the monument
7
The story, the architecture and a special link to a personality discussed in the tour
8
Stop 8
The story, the architecture, the wall paintings, and the frescoes of the church
9
The medieval architecture, special wall paintings at the interior, the church's role in the Greek Revolution.
10
Stop 10
The church's role in the Greek Revolution. The cell of a famous writer, and the greek-ottoman culture
11
Stop 11
Pass by
The story of a lost neighborhood, its culture
12
The importance of baths in art and history
13
Stop 13
The Byzantine Architecture, the special icons and wall paintings at the interior, the link of the church with the Orthodox Tradition
14
Stop 14
See it and discuss it as a place of torture. No entrance unless asked
15
Its masonry and the church's important story in Byzantine times
16
Stop 16
The most ancient street in Europe and its attractions
17
A secret baptistery
18
We visit the museum of Karagiozis
19
The life story of a hero and the craft of its statue
20
The life story of the last Emperor of the Byzantine Empire
What's not included
Snacks
Metropolitan Cathedral of Athens (Admission per person is 3 Euros) this just optional
Reviews breakdown
Viator
3.0
2 reviews
5★
1
4★
0
3★
0
2★
0
1★
1
Tripadvisor
5.0
3 reviews
5★
3
4★
0
3★
0
2★
0
1★
0
Important information
Public transportation options are available nearby
Not recommended for travelers with spinal injuries
Not recommended for pregnant travelers
Not recommended for travelers with poor cardiovascular health
Travelers should have at least a moderate level of physical fitness
Not recomended for people they dont usually walk
Not recommended for travelers with hearing problems
Meeting point
You will find me right beneath the arch, on the side of the Olympian Columns. I ll be cholding a blue A4 paper with your name on it
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
From $25
per person
Price varies by option
Secure booking
Free cancellation available
Instant confirmation
