Excursion Modern athens on foot & grande bretagne afternoon tea tour at Athens

Explore the genesis of modern civilization and birthplace of democratic thought on a walking tour of some of the most significant historical sites and neighborhoods of Athens.

Athens City Sights & National Gardens

Depart the pier for approximately 1-hour panoramic drive to Athens and upon arrival, commence your discovery walk. Stroll beyond the Arch of Hadrian, the city's monumental gateway built to welcome the emperor that bears its name and the largest Temple of Antiquity, the Temple of Olympian Zeus, dedicated to the king of the Olympian gods and dating to the 6^th century BC. Find peaceful refuge in the heart of the city in the National Gardens, in the shadow of the Greek Parliament. The gardens were created by Queen Amalia in the early 19^th century, who personally planted the now 25-foot-tall palms conspicuous from the Vasilissis Amalias Avenue. Continue your stroll at Athens' central square, Syntagma Square, named after the constitution, issued by the first king of Greece after a popular uprising. Photograph the Old Royal Palace, which houses the Greek Parliament, and see the changing of the presidential guard (known as Evzones, or Tsoliades, in traditional military uniform) near the Tomb of the Unknown Soldier.

Kolonaki District

Continue your tour through Athens' aristocratic neighborhood of Kolonaki. Kolonaki is a wealthy, chic and upmarket district, and a fashionable meeting area. Here, you may encounter green spots and attractive buildings, predominantly neoclassical and modernist, lending the area a distinguished character. As one of the capital's leading shopping areas, it includes a number of high-end boutiques from Greek and international designers.

Grand Bretagne Hotel & Afternoon High Tea

Finish your walk of the city by enjoying a cup of delicious tea at the famous Grand Bretagne Hotel. Holding its genuine roots in the deepest customs of the renowned royals, the Afternoon High Tea is being elegantly served at the Winter Garden City Lounge, the most elegant corner in the heart of Athens. A custom carried from India to Britain in the early 17^th century. The 1,500 different kinds of tea prove the dedication of the English and its intrinsic presence in British culture. Since its inception, the Winter Garden tea serving and ritual became a landmark among tea consumers and connoisseurs. Perceived as the most opulent tea experience, accompanied by the finest selection of sweet and savory delicacies, the Afternoon Tea of the historic hotel is exclusively curated by talented pastry and executive chefs.

The tour concludes with approximately 30-minute drive back to the pier.

Points of interests

Points of interest seen on this excursion may include: Hadrian's Arch, Temple of Zeus, National Gardens, Syntagma Square, Greek Parliament, Tomb of the Unknown Soldier, Kolonaki District, Grand Bretagne Hotel

Note

Please note: This tour involves a moderate amount of walking for approximately 4 kilometers and standing, with numerous steps to negotiate. This tour is not suitable for guests with limited mobility and guests who utilise a wheelchair. Guests are advised to wear lightweight, comfortable clothing and non-slip, closed-toe walking shoes, and bring sunscreen, a hat and sunglasses from the ship. Dress code for Tea Time at Grande Bretagne Hotel is smart casual.