Photos
church at Monastiraki square
looking towards Pasalimani
Goulandris Museum of Cycladic Art, Athens
Mavro Lithari
Forum Posts
Beyond the basic Athens tour
by Numberfive1
Our cruise arrives in Piraeus port on Nov 25 for a day. We've seen the spectacular sites of Athens before, so would like to find a tour that goes beyond the basics. We have about 6 hours....noon to 6:00pm. Thanks for any ideas...
Re: Beyond the basic Athens tour
by leics
As with Rome, there is much, much more to see than the sites I suspect you have already visited. I am not sure you will find a tour to meet your wishes, but I am certain you will find a car and/or private guide (if you wish]
I suggest you just take the metro to Athens and explore the city a bit more.
Wander the Monastiriki 'flea' market. Discover the superb Kerameikos site. Spend time wandering the Plata district, the oldest area in modern Athens. Go up Lycavittos hill on foot or on the funicular for superb views....lots more possibilities.
You will be perfectly safe exploring Athens on your own. Just make sure you allow plenty of time for your return (same applies to Rome); ships don't wait! :-)
Re: Beyond the basic Athens tour
by iblatt
Hi!
I don't know what the "basics" which you have already seen before include, but I would add:
1. The New Acropolis Museum: It was only opened last year, so you probably haven't seen it yet, it's a superb museum, don't miss it! It's not on the acropolis but down below - read my tip: http://members.virtualtourist.com/m/d29d6/6833c/4/
2. Other excellent museums: The National Archaeological Museum (read my tip at the link above); and the Goulandris Museum of Cycladic and Ancient Greek Art.
3. Climb Philopappos Hill, across from the acropolis, enjoy the peace and quiet and the great vire of the acropolis and the city (read my tip).
4. If you've seen and done all the above already: Visit the Olympic village, outside the city.
Enjoy Athens!
Ilan
Re: Beyond the basic Athens tour
by lynnehamman
WE really loved walking around Plaka area- there are many surprises around each corner. Fortunately the Athenian people appreciate the ancient ruins in Plaka, and one often comes across a beautiful old statue that has been 'fenced off' in one of the gardens of the pretty villas in Plaka. Many other unusual smaller historical sites set between the old houses.
There are great tavernas & coffeeshops also in Plaka, good for eating or people watching. For VERY best skin products, I found a shop in Plaka called 'The Olive Tree'- not sure of address, but in main shopping area of Plaka.
Flea market area is interesting, something for every collector here.
Re: Beyond the basic Athens tour
by Numberfive1
Thanks so much for your ideas! I've written them down and will research how to travel to these places! You've been a great help!
Re: Beyond the basic Athens tour
by Numberfive1
Thanks so much for your ideas! I've written them down, and will do a google search of your recommendations....how to get there, etc. You've been a great help....
Re: Beyond the basic Athens tour
by Numberfive1
Thank you for the idea about the plaka. It sounds like a relaxing way to see the city and people, rather than from a bus window! I appreciate your help!
Re: Beyond the basic Athens tour
by Numberfive1
Thank you for the specific ideas! It will help me do the necessary research before we leave in a few days....I appreciate your suggestions. I'll check out the websites.
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