Athens and the New Acropolis Museum
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Port
Piraeus (Athens), Greece
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Activity Level
Strenuous Activity
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Excursion Type
All
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Wheelchair Accessible
No
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Starting At (prices in USD)
$120
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Minimum Age
Information Not Currently Available
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Duration
Approximately 4½ Hours
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Meals Included
Meals not included
Acropolis, Athens
The Acropolis of Athens and its monuments are universal symbols of classical spirit and civilization and form the greatest architectural and artistic complex bequeathed by Greek Antiquity to the world. An exceptional group of artists under the guidance of the sculptor Pheidias, transformed the rocky hill into a unique monument of thought and the arts. The most important monuments were built during that time: the Parthenon, the Erechtheon, the Propylaea, the monumental entrance to the Acropolis and the small temple Athena Nike.
Milton elegantly introduced Athens as 'the eye of Greece, mother of arts and eloquence' -- immortal words for a seemingly immortal city. Your visit today will begin with the most famous temple of the Ancient City -- the Parthenon, dedicated to Athena, the patron goddess of Athens.
Walking up a winding path towards the Acropolis, you will pass through the Propylaea, and see the Erechtheum temple and the Porch of the Caryatids in the distance. Reinforced by the hand of man, the natural fortress of the Acropolis stands 230 feet above the city. You cannot help but be in awe of the view below.
Next, you will visit the New Acropolis Museum where, for the first time ever, all the surviving treasures of the Acropolis can be seen together in one place. Works previously held in storage, in other Athenian museums and museums abroad, are on display and these include finds of the Acropolis, Post Parthenon, Roman Period and the excavation site when the new museum was built. The highlight is the display of the Parthenon Frieze, which is located on the top floor. Upon completion of the guided tour of the new museum, you will take a scenic drive through Athens. Along the way, watch for the Parliament building, the tomb of the Unknown Soldier, and the stadium used for the modern Olympics.
Please note: This tour is available only to guests whose cruise does not begin or end in Piraeus. Although not particularly strenuous, this tour requires considerable walking over uneven slippery surfaces. Participants will encounter approximately 80 steps. Not advisable for guests with mobility limitations. Shade is limited; please dress accordingly. Bring a hat and wear sunscreen. Tour does not operate on Mondays. Use of an audio headset (included) will enhance your tour experience.