Meet your private guide at Syntagma station in central Athens. Then, after introductions, board the metro (own expense) and travel to Monastiraki station, situated beneath the Acropolis of Athens and right next to the site of the Ancient Agora of Athens.
Once the heart of the ancient city, the agora is one of Athens’ most important archaeological sites — the remainder of the civic center and marketplace where Greek democracy was born. With your private guide, wander amid the evocative ruins and Doric columns, and listen to tales about the site’s history. Hear how the likes of Socrates and Plato spoke here, and visit the remains of important public buildings such as the Tholos, where the senate was headquartered, and the Metroon, which housed the city archives.
Visit, too, the Church of the Holy Apostles, which is close by to Areopagus Hill and dates back to the 10th century. Discover how it was here where Christianity was first preached in Athens by St Paul. Then, continue to the shopping center of Stoa of Attalos, which now houses the Museum of the Ancient Agora. Marvel at the impressive white colonnades and then head inside with your guide to peruse the fascinating exhibits, including ancient inscriptions, pottery, sculptures and coins.
One of the highlights of your private tour is the visit to the Temple of Hephaestus, a beautifully preserved Greek temple and one of the only buildings in the Agora of Athens to survive intact since its foundations were laid. Snap photos of its towering marble columns and learn how the temple was built just two years before the Parthenon — likely by the same architect.
After roughly three hours, your tour concludes in the Monastiraki area, leaving you free to continue sightseeing or make your own way back to your hotel.
Please note: The order of events as described above is subject to change on the day of your tour.
