Athens Markets Exploration Tour: From Ancient to Modern Times

1. Kotzia Square
   15m
   You begin your Athens walking tour by meeting your local guide in Kotzia Square, one of Athens’ most beautiful squares that is surrounded by gorgeous neoclassical buildings of the early 19th century and ancient ruins.
2. Athens Street
   30m
   Passing by the Mayor of Athens’ building, you’ll head to Athina Street, one of the busiest in Athens. Feel the morning vibes when the shop owners get ready for a day of business and Athenians flock to the city’s shops and markets, as they have done for the past 2,000 years. Your guide will explain the practices of food’s commerce, the soul of Greek life, which have existed for thousands of years.
3. Central Market
   30m
   While exploring Athenian markets, you’ll experience local produce and with your guide’s help, you’ll be able to pick out all the local favourites, such as Mediterranean fruits, vegetables, meat and cheese.
   
   While exploring Athenian markets, you’ll experience local produce and with your guide’s help, you’ll be able to pick out all the local favourites, such as Mediterranean fruits, vegetables, meat and cheese.
4. Monastiraki
   15m
   After awakening your senses with all these warm colours, tastes, and smells, you’ll head to Monastiraki Square. Located in the center of the square, the Pantanassa Monastery is the square’s symbol, and the reason why the square is called Monastiraki as its name derives from the Greek word for monastery.
5. Hadrian's Library
   25m
   Here, you’ll also admire other Athens’ landmarks such as the Hadrian Library, an archaic temple constructed in the Corinthian-style, and the 18th-century Tzistarakis Mosque, which nowadays houses the ceramics museum.
6. Avysinias Square
   30m
   Next, you’ll venture through the Square’s flea market where you’ll chat with merchants and discover ancient monuments as you uncover even more Athens history.
   
   Moving on, you’ll explore the bazaar streets of Ifaistou and Pandrossos discovering handcrafts and other specialties such as leather sandals, handmade icons, Greek music instruments, and antiques. Here is the perfect place to feel the authentic vibes of the bustling Athens market culture.
7. Ancient Agora of Athens
   20m
   Afterwards, walking by the ancient Agora, where merchants traded during Greek and Roman times, you’ll head to the vibrant neighbourhood of Thission, passing 17th and 18th-century old houses along the way.
8. Plaka
   1h
   Next up, you’ll explore Plaka neighborhood, Athens’ continuously inhabited area since ancient times, where you’ll enjoy a freshly brewed coffee and a local mouthwatering sweet in a cozy coffee shop.
9. Acropolis
   Pass by
   Your tour comes to an end at the entrance of the Acropolis. From here, you can continue your personal exploration to the Acropolis Archaeological Site or Athens’ downtown, or follow your guide’s advice on the best way to get back to your hotel.
   
   Before we part ways, your local guide will share with you more hints and tips on how to get the best of your trip in amazing Athens.

Pickup details

Guests' pickup is offered for the private group option. Pick up time adjustable upon your request. We will meet you at your Athens hotel lobby, Airbnb or Piraeus port. Our guide will be holding a sign with your name. Please call or email us (contact information on voucher).

• Infants are required to sit on an adult’s lap
• Not recommended for travelers with poor cardiovascular health
• Service animals allowed
• Public transportation options are available nearby
• Infants and small children can ride in a pram or stroller
• All areas and surfaces are wheelchair accessible
• Transportation options are wheelchair accessible
• Wheelchair accessible
• Suitable for all physical fitness levels
• Guests pickup is offered for the private group option. Pick up time adjustable upon your request. We will meet you at your Athens hotel lobby or at the Piraeus port. Our guide will be holding a sign with your name.
• How you help the local community by joining this tour: - By visiting 100% locally owned stores, you support small-scale, locally-run businesses and help preserve the traditional character of old Athens. - You support a street vendor who sells traditional Koulouri sesame rings to increase his income. - At least one store on your itinerary is dedicated to the preservation of locally-produced crafts.
• Food Allergies: Unless you suffer from multiple, combined food allergies, or unless you are a vegan, we will figure it out. Vegetarians are welcome on all tours. Please wear comfortable shoes for walking.
• If you are happy with the services provided by your local guides a tip – though not compulsory – is appropriate. While it may not be customary to you, it is of great significance to the people who will take care of you during your travels, inspires excellent service, and is an entrenched feature of the tourism industry. Please consider this when budgeting for your extra expenses on this tour.