Athens Super Saver: Acropolis Tour& Sounion and Mycenae& Nafplion

A Great Intro to Greece’s Classics in Just Two Days

If you’re looking to see some of Greece’s most iconic sights without spending a week on the road, this Athens Super Saver tour offers a practical solution. For $266.07 per person, you get two days packed with history, stunning scenery, and authentic Greek charm. The first day focuses on Athens’ legendary monuments—the Acropolis and the Parthenon—along with a scenic drive along the coast to the Temple of Poseidon at Cape Sounion. The second day takes you further back in time with visits to Mycenae, the legendary city of Agamemnon, and Nafplion, a picturesque seaside town.

What we really appreciate about this tour is its flexible approach. You can choose to do the first day or second day first, depending on your schedule, which makes it suitable whether you’re arriving in Athens or already based there. The guides are knowledgeable, and the coach is comfortable and air-conditioned—a real plus after long days of sightseeing.

One thing to keep in mind is that this isn’t a full-day guided city tour, so if you’re after in-depth commentary inside museums or archaeological sites, you might find it a bit basic. Also, the tour doesn’t include accommodation or meals, so plan accordingly. Still, for travelers eager to hit the highlights efficiently and at a reasonable price, this package is a compelling choice. It’s especially well-suited for those who want authentic experiences with expert guides without the hassle of organizing multiple day trips themselves.

Key Points

• Two-Day Itinerary: Combines Athens city highlights with archaeological and scenic trips to Sounion, Mycenae, and Nafplion.
• Flexible Schedule: You can organize the days in either order, depending on your plans.
• Comfort & Convenience: Air-conditioned coach, hotel pickup (at selected hotels), and free Wi-Fi make the journey relaxed.
• Expert Guides: Guides are praised for their knowledge, though some reviews suggest headphones would improve listening.
• Authentic Sites: Visits include UNESCO-listed monuments, ruins of Agamemnon’s palace, and breathtaking coastal views.
• Good Value: Entrance tickets are included for key sites, and the price covers transportation and guided commentary.

A Thorough Look at the Experience

Day 1: Athens and Cape Sounion

The adventure begins at the Amalia Hotel Athens at 8:30 a.m., with a prompt start. The group size is capped at 49, making it manageable but lively. The first stop is the Acropolis, where you’ll spend about an hour and fifteen minutes exploring the Parthenon, the Erechtheion, and other iconic ruins. The entry fee is included, so you can focus on absorbing the history without worrying about extra costs.

While the Acropolis is breathtaking, some review comments mention that the crowd can be intense, making it hard to hear guides or get good photos at peak times. The guide, Martina, was highly praised for her knowledge, which helps enrich the experience. A suggestion from travelers is that providing personal headphones could improve the experience, especially during busy moments.

Next, the tour passes by the Panathenaic Stadium, where the first modern Olympics were held. Only about 10 minutes here, but it’s an interesting glimpse into Greece’s modern Olympic history. Then, around midday, you head toward Cape Sounion for the highlight of the afternoon—the Temple of Poseidon. Perched on seaside cliffs, the temple offers spectacular views over the Aegean, perfect for photos and soaking in the scenery.

You’ll spend about an hour here, enjoying the vistas and the sense of standing where ancient sailors once worshipped Poseidon. The guide shares stories of Greek mythology and seafaring traditions, making the visit more meaningful. The drive along the coast is scenic, with plenty of opportunities to relax, take photos, and appreciate Greece’s natural beauty.

Day 2: Mycenae and Nafplion

The second day takes you into mainland Greece’s archaeological heartland. Starting at Mycenae, you’ll spend around 1.5 hours exploring the ruins of Agamemnon’s palace and the famous Cylinder Seal. The Tomb of Agamemnon is a highlight, offering a tangible link to Homeric legends. The site is atmospheric and grand, though some review comments mention the need for a guide to truly understand its significance—luckily, guides here are praised for their knowledge.

Next, a quick 20-minute drive brings you to the Corinth Canal, where you can marvel at this engineering feat that connects the Aegean and Ionian seas. It’s a short stop, but the view of the narrow waterway is striking.

The afternoon is spent in Nafplion, a charming seaside town that feels like stepping into a fairy tale. A walking tour of the old town reveals narrow streets, historic fortresses, and lovely waterfront views. You’ll have about 2 hours and 30 minutes here, enough time for a leisurely stroll, a coffee, or some shopping. Many reviewers love Nafplion for its relaxed atmosphere and scenic beauty, making it a perfect way to unwind after a day of archaeological exploration.

The Pros and Cons

What we love

• The knowledgeable guides make all the difference, especially when they share stories and context that bring the sites to life. Several reviews praise the guides for their expertise.
• The value for money is clear, with entrance fees to major sites included, comfortable transportation, and expert commentary packed into just two days.
• The scenic coastal drive to Sounion and the views from the temple are unforgettable, providing a perfect mix of history and nature.

What to consider

• The crowds at the Acropolis and some sites can be overwhelming, and some travelers note that listening to the guide is easier with headphones, which aren’t provided.
• The tour does not include lunch or overnight stays, so you’ll need to plan your meals and accommodations separately.
• The duration of travel between sites—especially on the second day—means some long road stretches, which can be tiring if you prefer more time at each stop.

Who is this best for?

This tour suits travelers who want to maximize their sightseeing in a short period without the hassle of organizing multiple trips. It’s ideal for those interested in classic Greek sites, who appreciate good commentary, and who enjoy scenic drives and authentic ruins. If you’re comfortable with moderate physical activity and enjoy guided tours, this is a reliable, well-organized option.

In-Depth Look at the Itinerary

Acropolis & Athens City Highlights

Starting in the heart of Athens, the Acropolis is an essential visit. You’ll climb through the ancient stones, marvel at the Parthenon’s grandeur, and learn about the building’s history from your guide. The proximity of the Panathenaic Stadium adds a modern layer to the ancient landscape.

However, some reviews mention that during busy times, it’s hard to hear the guide without personal audio devices. The crowds can be dense, especially during peak season, so early mornings are often better if possible. Still, the views from the Acropolis over Athens are worth the effort, offering a panoramic perspective of the city’s modern sprawl juxtaposed with ancient ruins.

Cape Sounion & the Temple of Poseidon

In the afternoon, your journey takes you southward along the coast, with a scenic drive along the Saronic Gulf. The Temple of Poseidon is perched atop a cliff, offering sweeping views over the sea—ideal for photos and appreciating Greece’s maritime heritage. Several travelers mention that the drive is scenic but note that the visit is relatively short—about an hour.

The guide shares mythological stories, making the visit more engaging. It’s a perfect way to combine history with natural beauty, especially if you love panoramic vistas and a sense of place.

Day 2: Mycenae & Nafplion

The journey to Mycenae is like stepping into Greek mythology. The ruins are impressive, with the Lion Gate and the Tholos Tombs revealing the power of ancient Greek monarchs. The guides are praised for their knowledge, helping you understand the significance of the site beyond just the stones.

The quick stop at the Corinth Canal provides a fun photo opportunity but isn’t a deep exploration. The afternoon in Nafplion offers a relaxing change of pace. This historic seaside town, with its narrow streets and waterfront cafes, is a favorite among travelers looking to experience authentic Greece beyond ruins.

Final Thoughts

This Athens Super Saver tour combines the must-see ancient sites with scenic coastal drives, making it ideal for first-time visitors or those who want a broad overview without breaking the bank. The inclusion of entrance tickets and comfortable transport enhances the value, and the guides’ expertise helps you make sense of the ruins and legends.

While it’s not a comprehensive, in-depth exploration of each site—particularly for those craving museum visits or detailed archaeological insights—it delivers a well-rounded experience packed with iconic sights, stunning views, and helpful commentary. The moderate group size and organized logistics make it accessible, although crowded sites may diminish the experience slightly.

In summary, if you’re eager to tick off Greece’s top landmarks in a manageable way and enjoy scenic drives and historical stories, this trip offers excellent bang for your buck. It’s perfect for travelers who value guided insight, comfort, and efficient planning over the more leisurely, spend-the-day-in-one-place type of tour.

FAQ

Is hotel pickup available?
Yes, hotel pickup is included but only at selected hotels. Check your booking details to see if your accommodation qualifies.

How long are the travel days?
The entire experience spans about two days, with most of the time spent on the coach traveling between sites and sightseeing.

Are entrance fees included?
Yes, tickets for the Acropolis, Sounion, and Mycenae are included. You won’t need to worry about extra costs for these highlights.

Can I do the tour in either order?
Absolutely. The tour allows you to choose whether to see Athens first or explore Mycenae and Nafplion on the second day, depending on your preferences.

What’s the group size?
The maximum group size is 49 travelers, making it easier to hear the guide and ask questions.

Is food included?
No, meals are not included. You should plan to bring snacks, or enjoy meals in Nafplion or during the scenic drive.

Do I need to be physically fit?
Moderate physical activity is involved, especially at sites like the Acropolis and Mycenae, so a moderate fitness level is recommended.

Are children allowed on this tour?
Yes, but children aged 5 to 12 need to have their passport or ID to get the discounted price or pay full entry if not.

Is this tour suitable for a solo traveler?
Yes, the group size and organized nature make it a good option for solo travelers looking to meet others and explore with guidance.

Will I have free time during the tour?
Yes, especially in Nafplion, where you’ll have about 2.5 hours for photos, shopping, or relaxing in a cafe.

This detailed, balanced review aims to help you decide if this Athens Super Saver tour matches your travel style—offering a well-organized, value-packed way to experience Greece’s legendary sights without feeling rushed or overwhelmed.