August has traditionally been the month when most Greeks take their annual leave. Partly to escape the heat and partly to take advantage of the Feast of the Dormition of the Mother of God on August 15—which is a major holiday in the Orthodox Church and is observed as a public holiday in Greece—Athenians leave the capital in droves to go on their summer holidays. And with the crowds gone, it’s a perfect opportunity to experience the magic of the Greek capital.
So, as the sun shines in the bright blue Greek sky and the cicadas sing, let your city become your playground, waiting to be explored, experienced and enjoyed. Here are some of your favorite experiences and tours in Athens to enjoy this summer!
Ancient Wonders
If you haven’t already, take an Acropolis tour and visit the Parthenon. A private tour is the best way to make the most of the experience, with an experienced tour guide at your side to bring the sites to life, answer your questions and pace the tour to work for you. Our Greek Essentials and Classical Athens, Classically Greek tours are our most popular classical heritage tours in Athens, including a private guided tour of the Acropolis and Parthenon, a private guided tour of the award-winning Acropolis Museum, and an opportunity to experience Greek hospitality and sample some Greek flavors!
You can even combine a morning at the beach with An Afternoon in Athens, to enjoy a private afternoon tour of the capital’s most iconic landmark and a chance to admire the city’s ancient marvels in the afternoon sun. Sounds perfect, right?
Family-Friendly
For families with young kids, summertime is family time, so we’ve even got a dedicated kids-and-families range: Our Young Explorers tours are specially designed with younger travelers in mind, using principles of experiential learning to deliver cultural tours that are fun and engaging for the whole family!
Modern History and Heritage
To discover more of the city’s fascinating multifaceted heritage, take our new Faces of Athens walking tour that will take you on a journey from antiquity through to the 20th century without ever leaving the historical center of the capital.
You can also opt to explore a different side of Greek history and discover the magic and opulence of Neoclassical Athens and the 19th century Kingdom of Greece, including visits to the former royal gardens, the Athenian Trilogy and the Museum of the City of Athens.
In the Mood for Something Different?
Go for A Taste of Greece to experience Greek cuisine and the city’s fabulous local gastronomy, from traditional herbs and delicacies to some of the capital’s best street food—including the opportunity to taste a selection of Greek wines!
Alternatively, surrender to the city’s Modern Muses and experience contemporary art in true Athenian style, including gallery visits and an opportunity to meet a local artist in their workshop to learn about the city’s thriving art scene.
Try Something Unique
Treat yourself to a unique dining experience: The Heritage Dinner gives you the opportunity to enjoy a specially catered dinner in a private neoclassical townhouse in the historical and picturesque neighborhood of Plaka.
Arranged exclusively for you and your guests, dinner may be served on the roof terrace of this listed home which boasts marvelous views of the illuminated Acropolis.
Can’t wait to book? Private, guided and fully adaptable to your needs, our tours and experiences are guaranteed to help you make some fantastic memories on this trip to Athens. Get in touch and get ready for an unforgettable summer in the city!
