For cruise passengers arriving in Piraeus for only few hours to see the beautiful city of Athens and what it has to offer, this private guided shore excursion is the best option. Visit some of the Athens major monuments of Greek antiquity with a professional expert guide. Meet your private air-conditioned vehicle at the pier and head to Athens city centre. The first stop at the Panathinaikos Stadium cradle of the first Olympic Games took place in 1896. Pass by the Prime’s Minister's residence, Ex Royal Palace, (guarded by colorful Evzones), Zappeion Hall and the Roman Temple of Olympian Zeus. Continue passing by the main modern monuments and buildings of the city and finally reach the UNESCO-listed Acropolis. Climb up to the Acropolis and visit Parthenon, the monumental marble gates of the Propylaea, the Temple of Athena Nike, and the famous Porch of Maidens at the temple of Erechtheion. Explore the site at your own pace and enjoy unique panoramic views. Continue with a pleasant short walking tour passing by Herodion and Dionysos Theater, in order to visit the new Acropolis museum. Main attractions such as votives, artifacts of everyday life, statues from the archaic period, Caryatids, and of course the Parthenon hall with the metopes, the pediments and the frieze will impress you. After a morning full of experiences and images you will have free time to explore on your own the area of Plaka for walking or optional lunch. Then head back to the port on time for the embarkation back to your ship.