Athens Highlights Half Day Tour

Rising above Athens, the Acropolis is a UNESCO World Heritage Site and one of the most important landmarks of ancient Greece. Its most famous structure, the Parthenon, was built between 447–432 BC during the Golden Age of Athens under the leadership of Pericles. The Acropolis served as a religious and political center, dedicated to Athena, the city’s patron goddess. Other key monuments include the Erechtheion, with its famous Caryatids, and the Temple of Athena Nike. The Acropolis reflects the height of classical art, architecture, and democracy—and still inspires the world today.

Standing as a symbol of ancient Greek grandeur, the Temple of Olympian Zeus was once one of the largest temples in the ancient world. Construction began in the 6th century BC but wasn’t finished until the reign of Roman Emperor Hadrian in the 2nd century AD. The temple originally featured 104 towering Corinthian columns, of which 15 still stand today. Dedicated to Zeus, the king of the gods, it was a monument to both divine power and imperial ambition, showcasing the blend of Greek and Roman influence.

Hadrian’s Arch (Gate of Hadrian)
Built in 131 AD, Hadrian’s Arch marked the symbolic gateway between ancient Athens and the new Roman city built by Emperor Hadrian. Made entirely of marble, the arch bears two inscriptions—one honoring Theseus, the legendary founder of Athens, and the other honoring Hadrian himself, reflecting the city’s dual heritage. Once a ceremonial entrance, the arch still stands tall today near the Temple of Olympian Zeus, blending Roman grandeur with Athenian pride.

Kallimarmaro (Panathenaic Stadium)
Built entirely of white marble, Kallimarmaro is the only stadium of its kind in the world. Originally constructed in the 4th century BC for the Panathenaic Games, it was rebuilt in marble by Herodes Atticus in 144 AD. In modern times, it hosted the first Olympic Games of the modern era in 1896. Still used for events today, it stands as a powerful link between ancient and modern sports history in the heart of Athens.

Presidential Mansion
Located next to the National Garden, the Presidential Mansion is the official residence of the President of the Hellenic Republic. Originally built in the late 19th century as a royal palace for Crown Prince Constantine, the neoclassical building has served as the presidential residence since 1975, after the abolition of the monarchy. Surrounded by beautiful gardens, it is also where the Evzones perform part of the changing of the guard ceremony. Though not open to the public, it remains a symbol of modern Greek statehood and dignity.

Hellenic Parliament
Located in the heart of Athens, the Hellenic Parliament is housed in the former Royal Palace, built in the 19th century for Greece's first king, Otto. It became the seat of the Greek parliament in 1934. Visitors can witness the famous changing of the guards at the Tomb of the Unknown Soldier, located in front of the building. The Parliament is the center of Greece’s political life and a symbol of the country's democratic traditions.
The Changing of the Guards at the Hellenic Parliament is a captivating and ceremonial event that takes place every hour, with a grand ceremony on Sundays. The Evzones, elite soldiers dressed in traditional uniforms, perform this ritual in front of the Tomb of the Unknown Soldier, paying tribute to fallen soldiers. The guards’ precise movements and the colorful attire make this a must-see for visitors, symbolizing Greece’s respect for its history and those who served the nation.

The Athenian Trilogy
A neoclassical masterpiece in the heart of Athens, the Athenian Trilogy consists of three grand 19th-century buildings: the Academy of Athens, the National Library, and the University of Athens. Designed by Danish architect Theophil Hansen, the trilogy blends classical Greek style with modern elegance. Inspired by ancient temples, these buildings symbolize the revival of Greek culture after independence and represent knowledge, learning, and philosophy—core values of ancient and modern Greece alike.

The Ancient Agora of Athens was the heart of public life in ancient times, serving as a bustling center for politics, commerce, philosophy, and social gatherings. Located beneath the Acropolis, it was home to important buildings like the Stoa of Attalos and the Temple of Hephaestus. Great thinkers like Socrates once walked its paths, making it a true symbol of Athenian democracy and culture.