Athens: Athenian Riviera Private Tour by Van

Explore the stunning Athenian Riviera on a private 5-hour tour designed for those wishing to see both historic sites and breathtaking coastal scenery. For $361 per group of up to 3, this experience provides a deep dive into central Greece’s highlights, all with the comfort of a private vehicle and a knowledgeable driver and guide team. Departing from various pickup points in Athens, the tour offers a personalized way to enjoy some of the most scenic and historic spots along Greece’s coast.

What makes this tour particularly appealing is its combination of cultural exploration and natural beauty. From the ancient ruins of Lavrio to the iconic Temple of Poseidon atop Cape Sounion, and the tranquil waters of Vouliagmeni Lake, travelers get a well-rounded experience within a manageable 5-hour window. The inclusion of local guide insights and spacious, clean transportation makes this a convenient and engaging option, especially for those seeking a tailored adventure.

While the tour covers many highlights, it does not include attraction entrance fees or a professional archaeological guide at the sites, which could be a consideration for history enthusiasts. The informal yet informative guidance from the driver ensures a smooth and enjoyable journey. This experience suits travelers looking to combine scenic beauty, archaeological sites, and local culture in a flexible, private setting.

Key Points

• Private 5-hour tour exploring Athens’ coast with a personal driver and guide
• Visit to Lake Vouliagmeni, renowned for its clear waters and scenic setting
• Explore Lavrio, an ancient Greek town known for its precious stones and historic ruins
• See the Temple of Poseidon at Cape Sounion, with panoramic views and sunset options
• Stops include Piraeus, Mikrolimano, Varkiza, Lagonisi, Charakas Beach, and Thorikos archaeological site
• Transportation is in a spacious, clean van, with bottled water provided

You can check availability for your dates here:

Starting Point and Transport: Convenient Pickup from Multiple Locations

This tour begins with a pickup outside your Athens hotel, with seven pickup options including Alimos, Voula, Glyfada, Athens center, Palaio Faliro, Vouliagmeni, and Pireas. The driver then takes you along the Athenian coastline, providing narration about local history and geography throughout the drive.

The transportation is described as super spacious and very clean, ensuring comfort during the 5-hour journey. The private nature of the tour means no need to worry about large crowds or rigid schedules, making it a flexible way to experience Athens’ coastal attractions.

Exploring Lavrio: An Ancient Town Known for Its Stones and Ruins

A highlight of the tour is a stop in Lavrio, a historic Greek town famed for its precious stones and ancient ruins. Visitors walk through the ancient mine and learn about Lavrio’s role in Greek history as a significant mining center.

This stop offers a chance to see the original borders of Athens and absorb the local archaeological significance. The walk through Lavrio’s streets provides a glimpse into a less touristy, authentic part of Greece’s past, with historic sites that add depth to the coastal exploration.

Cape Sounion and the Temple of Poseidon: Panoramic Views and Historic Significance

The Temple of Poseidon at Cape Sounion is a key highlight, perched atop Cape Sounion Hill. The panoramic vistas from this spot are described as stunning, with views in every direction.

This site holds historical importance as an ancient Greek temple dedicated to the sea god Poseidon. Visitors enjoy free time here to walk around, take photos, and contemplate the breathtaking scenery, especially if they choose to visit during sunset hours. The temple’s location offers classic Greece coastal vistas and a sense of historical grandeur.

Coastal Drive: From Piraeus to Varkiza and Lagonisi

Throughout the tour, the driver passes by several notable coastal neighborhoods such as Glyfada, Varkiza, and Lagonisi. These areas are known for their luxurious seaside homes, beach clubs, and local charm.

While the tour mainly passes by these spots, the drive offers continuous views of the coastline and the opportunity to appreciate the scenic beauty of Greece’s Athenian Riviera. This section provides a relaxed, picturesque experience without the need for extra walking or site visits.

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Lake Vouliagmeni: The Hidden Gem for Relaxation and Photos

A favorite stop is Vouliagmeni Lake, described as a pristine and beautiful body of water with clear turquoise waters. The tour allows photo stops and offers visitors time to explore the lake’s shores.

Guests can cool off by dipping their feet into the waters or simply relax at the shoreline. The lake’s unique mineral composition and calm environment make it a peaceful break during the busy day of sightseeing.

Thorikos Archaeological Site: An Off-the-Beaten-Path Ancient Theatre

Another engaging stop is the Ancient Theatre of Thorikos, an archaeological site where visitors can walk among ruins and learn about the ancient Greek settlement. This less-visited location provides a quieter, authentic archaeological experience.

The site’s sightseeing element complements the tour’s mix of history and scenic coastline, adding variety for those interested in ancient Greek architecture and history.

Flexible Itinerary and Optional Lunch Breaks

The itinerary includes multiple photo stops, pass-by moments, and walks. The guide offers informal commentary throughout, making the experience both informative and relaxed.

There is time allocated for a lunch or snack at a small tavern or café along the coast, providing an authentic taste of Greek cuisine. This can be arranged if requested in advance, adding a personal touch to the trip.

Practical Tips and What to Bring

Travelers are advised to carry passport or ID, wear comfortable shoes and clothes, and bring sunglasses, a hat, and a camera to capture the scenic moments. The tour explicitly prohibits drinks and food in the vehicle to maintain cleanliness.

Since the route may change and times may vary, flexibility is key. The pickup and drop-off are included, eliminating worry about logistics, and the tour operates in Greek and English.

Final Thoughts on the Athens: Athenian Riviera Private Tour

This private experience offers a well-rounded look at the coastal beauty and historic sites of Athens. The guides’ knowledge and careful driving are praised in reviews, providing a comfortable, informative, and personalized day.

While it does not include entry fees or professional archaeological guides at every site, the informal guidance ensures a smooth and engaging visit. The scenic drives, stunning viewpoints, and peaceful stops make it especially attractive for those wanting a relaxed yet educational exploration of the Athenian Riviera.

This tour is a solid choice for small groups eager to enjoy Greece’s seaside charm, its history, and beautiful landscapes in a luxurious, private setting.

Frequently Asked Questions

• What is the duration of this tour? The tour lasts 5 hours, with flexible starting times based on availability.
• How many people can join? It is designed for a private group of up to 3 people.
• What is included in the price? The pickup and drop-off, transportation, driver and guide, and bottled water are included.
• Are attraction entry fees covered? No, entrance fees are not included.
• Can I modify the itinerary? Yes, the guide allows modifications, especially for lunch arrangements or specific site visits.
• What should I bring? Passport or ID, comfortable shoes, sunglasses, hat, and camera.
• Is this tour suitable for families? The tour’s relaxed pace and scenic stops make it suitable for most travelers, but specific needs should be considered.
• Can I see the sunset at Cape Sounion? Yes, the sunset option is available if scheduled accordingly.
• Is transportation comfortable? Yes, the vehicle is spacious and very clean.
• What makes this tour stand out? The personalized service, scenic coastal stops, and expert guiding make it a popular choice for those wanting a balanced mix of history and nature in Greece.