Extension program Athens Three Days in the Greek Capital Would you like to spend a few extra days in Athens and take part in an exciting program that offers both pre-organised activities as well as plenty of free time to discover the Greek capital on your own? Then we recommend our three-day extension program in Athens. Transfers are included as well as two overnight stays in a hotel in the city centre, a guided bike tour through Athens, entrance to the Acropolis, and dinner at a typical Greek tavern. Extension Inquiry
A journey through 2,500 years of history The 2004 Olympics brought about a very positive change to the face of the lively 5-million strong metropolis of Athens. Large sections of the inner city were transformed into pedestrian areas and an impressive archaeological park was created, stretching from the Acropolis across the Ancient Agora to Kerameikos, the old potters’ and cemetery district. Enjoy an unforgettable stroll through the winding alleys of Plaka, the charming old town district, where you can not only stop to admire the many different souvenirs available, but can also delight at the treats in one of the countless cosy cafés. Old Town Quarter Plaka Plaka is one of the oldest districts of Athens, located at the foot of the Acropolis. Many of the houses have foundations that date back to antiquity, though most of the façades were built in the 18th century. Until the 19th century and modern urban planning, Plaka made up the core of the city of Athens. In 1840, 19,000 people still lived in the old town. After that, Plaka became a tavern district, which today is home to numerous picturesque alleys and cosy cafés and bars. The Acropolis The Acropolis of Athens is the great citadel situated on the rocky outcrop in the heart of Athens, dedicated to the goddess Athena, patron, and protector of the city. The Acropolis has been a UNESCO World Heritage Site since 1987. Here you can discover several temples dating back to the 5th century BC and enjoy spectacular panoramic views of the entire city of Athens. Without a doubt, a visit to Athens is unimaginable without a tour of the Acropolis. This is why our Athens extension program also includes an entrance ticket to the Acropolis. The Panathenaic Stadium The Panathenaic Stadium or 'Kalimarmaro' is built on the foundations of an ancient stadium. It was constructed in a natural ravine between the hills of Agras and Ardittos around 330 BC to host the annual Panathenaic Games, the most important sporting event in ancient Athens. The stadium, made entirely of marble, is an impressive testament to sports history. In 1896, during the first Olympic Games of the modern era, the Kalimarmora served as the Olympic stadium and the venue for archery competitions. Street Art Quarter of Psyri In the street art quarter Psiri, you can experience the Greek capital at its most colourful. This district is not to be missed during a visit to Athens! A few years ago, the district was in disrepair, but today it has transformed itself into a must-see spot and a popular nightlife district for Athenians thanks to its remarkable street art. Psiri is located in the heart of the vibrant metropolis, less than a five-minute walk from the central Monastiraki Square. Overview Old Town Quarter Acropolis Panathenaic Stadium Street Art Quarter
Accommodation Charming hotels in the city center You can choose to stay in a three- or four-star hotel in the heart of Athens. Each of our partner hotels is located centrally near the Acropolis and Athens’ charming old town of Plaka. All major sights are within walking distance. Hotel Elia Ermou (4 Stars) The Elia Ermou Hotel is located on Athens' famous Ermou shopping street, just 150 m/500 ft. from Syntagma Square. An ideal location from where to reach all the major sights of the Greek capital on foot. The carefully chosen décor of the 123 luxurious rooms and suites leave nothing to be desired. All rooms have modern furnishings, a bathroom and are equipped with air conditioning, high-speed internet access, smart TV, telephone, and minibar. Hotel Hera (4 Stars) The Hera Hotel is located a short distance from the new Acropolis Museum and just a stone's throw away from the Acropolis, making it the perfect home base from where to explore the historic centre of Athens on foot. The hotel has 38 rooms and suites spread over five floors. The rooms range in size from 17-25 m²/180-270 ft² and are characterised by modern, functional architecture and exquisite interior design. All rooms have a bathroom and are equipped with air conditioning, TV, telephone, and minibar. Hotel Pan (3 Stars) The family run, three-star Hotel Pan is located in the historical centre of Athens, just a stone’s throw away from the picturesque old town of Plaka and in walking distance of all the must-see sights. The hotel’s 33 rooms are furnished with all the modern comforts you could possibly need, equipped with TV, free WIFI, air conditioning and a mini bar. The hotel also has an in-house café and offers guests an excellent breakfast with a wide range of Greek specialities. Location Hotel Elia Ermou Hotel Hera Hotel Pan
Included Activties Athens by bike tour This eventful bike tour through the historic city centre of Athens runs daily, starting at 9:30 am near the Acropolis metro station. It offers a perfect introduction to all the most important sights of Athens. The three-hour tour also takes you to great lookout points from where you can see large stretches of the city. A knowledgeable guide leads you safely along roads with little traffic while sharing the exciting history of Athens. This tour is therefore particularly suited to help you find your way in the urban jungle. For this reason, we recommend booking it on the first full day of your trip. Visit of the Acropolis Without a doubt, it is hard to imagine visiting Athens without also visiting the Acropolis. This is why the entrance ticket for the Acropolis is included in the tour price. This ticket is valid for three months, so you can visit any time you wish. However, we strongly recommend visiting either in the early morning or late afternoon. Not only do these hours offer the best light for stunning photos, but you will also miss the largest crowds. Dinner at Taverna To Kafenio An authentic Greek dinner awaits you at the To Kafenio restaurant in Plaka, a delightful traditional tavern in the middle of the old town of Athens.. We will reserve a table at the restaurant on an evening of your choice and you will dine á la carte. Drinks are not included. Tip: If you would like to spend even more time in Athens, please do not hesitate to contact us. We can simply extend the program by one or more nights at an extra charge!
Prices and Services Price per person (Season 2023) 3-star hotel – double room with breakfast: 350 euro 3-star hotel – single room with breakfast: 490 euro 4-star hotel – double room with breakfast: 420 euro 4-star hotel – single room with breakfast: 580 euro Included services 2 overnight stays in Athens either at a three-star hotel (Pan or similar) or a four-star hotel (Hera, Elia Ermou or similar) in the centre of Athens Taxi transfers to or from the airport to the hotel as well as to or from the hotel to the ship Entrance fee to the Acropolis 1 dinner at the TO KAFENEION restaurant (drinks excluded) in the old town of Plaka 1 guided city bike tour with ATHENS BY BIKE (three-hour tour, English speaking tour guide) All tourist taxes Detailed booklet with useful tips for your stay at Athens
IMPORTANT NOTE If you would like to book this additional package, please select it when making your reservation or use our inquiry form "Extension Inquiry" and include the following information: Which travel date would you like to book the package for? How many people would you like to book the package for? In which hotel category would you like to stay at and what type of room? On which day and at what time would you like to dine in the TO KAFENEION restaurant? On which day would you like to go on the city bike tour with ATHENS BY BIKE? (daily at 9.30 am) Provide detailed flight information to ensure a smooth transfer Voucher delivery After booking you will receive a simple confirmation/invoice as well as all vouchers in digital form by email in good time before departure. If desired, these can also be printed out and left at the reception desk of your hotel.
