Arch of Hadrian Tours and Activities
4 Reviews
Erected in honor of the Roman Emperor Hadrian in the 2nd century A.D, the Arch of Hadrian's monumental gateway remains one of the most striking remnants of ancient Athens. Located on the ancient road between the Athenian Agora and the Olympieion, the elaborate structure was supposedly built to honor the arrival of Hadrian in 131 AD.
The Arch, standing in front of the once magnificent Temple of Olympian Zeus (the Olympieion), formed a symbolic gateway between the old city district and the new Roman-built city, erected by Hadrian. Notably, two inscriptions feature on the sides of the arch: the western side, looking onto the old city reads ‘ This is Athens, the ancient city of Theseus’ and the eastern side, facing the Olympieion, reads ‘This is the city of Hadrian and not of Theseus’. The exact meaning of the latter phrase is hotly disputed – some say it is simply naming the new city as that of Hadrian; others insist it was a deliberate contradiction of the former statement, indicating that the entire city was now ruled by Hadrian.
Today the main structure of Hadrian’s Arch remains remarkably preserved and is one of the most popular attractions of modern Athens. Towering at a height of 18 meters, the fully symmetrical Roman-style arch is an impressive sight – sculpted entirely from Pentelic marble, adorned with Ionic architraves and crowned with a row of Corinthian columns and pilasters.
The Arch, standing in front of the once magnificent Temple of Olympian Zeus (the Olympieion), formed a symbolic gateway between the old city district and the new Roman-built city, erected by Hadrian. Notably, two inscriptions feature on the sides of the arch: the western side, looking onto the old city reads ‘ This is Athens, the ancient city of Theseus’ and the eastern side, facing the Olympieion, reads ‘This is the city of Hadrian and not of Theseus’. The exact meaning of the latter phrase is hotly disputed – some say it is simply naming the new city as that of Hadrian; others insist it was a deliberate contradiction of the former statement, indicating that the entire city was now ruled by Hadrian.
Today the main structure of Hadrian’s Arch remains remarkably preserved and is one of the most popular attractions of modern Athens. Towering at a height of 18 meters, the fully symmetrical Roman-style arch is an impressive sight – sculpted entirely from Pentelic marble, adorned with Ionic architraves and crowned with a row of Corinthian columns and pilasters.
Address: Athens, Attica, Greece
95 Tours and Activities to Experience Arch of Hadrian
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Full Day Private Tour: Essential Athens Highlights plus Cape Sounion and Temple of Poseidon
115
Make the most of your time in Greece on this full-day privately chauffeured tour of Athens. Get a true insider's view of this bustling Mediterranean metropolis and learn the history and culture of the city along the way. Explore the city while visiting such sites: Olympic Stadium, the Acropolis, Hadrian's Arch, the Temple of Zeus, and the New Acropolis Museum. Watch the changing of the guard at the parliament and then take a coastal road trip to the dramatic clifftop Temple of Poseidon. This tour is flexible and allows you to go at your own pace.
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From
$234.95
Price varies by group size
From
$234.95
Price varies by group size
Face masks required for guides in public areas
Face masks provided for travelers
Hand sanitizer available to travelers and staff
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8-Day Tour of Athens, Mykonos and Santorini
3
See the greatest hits of Greece with this 8-day/7-night trip to Athens, Mykonos and Santorini. Take a guided tour of Athens, seeing all the main sites, including the Acropolis. Then board a ferry for the ride to Mykonos, enjoying the deep blue Aegean Sea along the way. On Mykonos, tour the island, strolling down its marble streets and relaxing on the beach. After a ferry ride to beautiful Santorini, take some time to soak up the iconic views.
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From
$1,374.42
From
$1,374.42
Hand sanitizer available to travelers and staff
Social distancing enforced throughout experience
Regularly sanitized high-traffic areas
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Athens Scenic Bike Tour
646
Explore the ancient monuments and bustling energy of Athens on a fun and easy bike tour. Cover much more distance than walking while peddling along bike-friendly paths and streets, stopping to learn about the city’s long history and legends from a local guide. Cycle around the Acropolis and past other iconic ruins including the Ancient Agora, Roman Forum, and the Keramikos Cemetery.
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From
$44.43
From
$44.43
Hand sanitizer available to travelers and staff
Social distancing enforced throughout experience
Gear/equipment sanitized between use
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Private Half Day Athens Tour
4
Athens can be overwhelming to navigate, so explore the sprawling Greek capital the easy way with a dedicated guide and driver. Skip the stress of public transit or long hot walks, and let your Athenian host take you directly to the must-see attractions, from the ancient Acropolis to the stately Greek parliament building and famous Olympic stadium. Plus, get personalized tips on where to eat authentic Greek food away from the tourist traps.
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From
$147.57
Price varies by group size
From
$147.57
Price varies by group size
Hand sanitizer available to travelers and staff
Gear/equipment sanitized between use
Transportation vehicles regularly sanitized
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Athens Electric Bike Tour
315
Make easy work of Athens’ busy streets and steep hills by whizzing around the sights on an easy-to-ride electric bike. Glide effortlessly around the hilltop ruins of the UNESCO-listed Acropolis of Athens, pedal around the atmospheric Old Town of Plaka, and explore lively Monastiraki. Hop off along the way to see the New Acropolis Museum, Hadrian’s Arch, Panathenaic Stadium and the National Gardens of Athens.
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From
$57.22
Price varies by group size
From
$57.22
Price varies by group size
Face masks required for travelers in public areas
Face masks required for guides in public areas
Face masks provided for travelers
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Essential Athens Highlights: Half Day Private Tour by Luxury Vehicle
From pick up at your Hotel, Cruise ship or Athens residence sit back in the full leather comfort of one of our new Mercedes, AudiA6 or other luxury models in the company of a professional tour driver who will take you to all the highlights including the Acropolis, New Acropolis Museum, Arch of Hadrian, Temple of Zeus, Olympic Stadium, Parliament & changing of the guards and Lykabettus Hill for a final panorama of the city below, so you wont miss anything during your visit.
Our 'go at your own pace' tour takes the time you need, whether you are a multi-generational family, seasoned guest requiring a more gentle pace, or just want the photo stops, our permanent staff of drivers have the experience to tailor things for you as you learn along the way about the history, mythology & stories which make Athens one of the world’s great Capitals.
With hassle free booking options such as inclusion of a traditional lunch we aim to make your tour the highlight of your visit.
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From
$172.87
Price varies by group size
From
$172.87
Price varies by group size
Face masks required for guides in public areas
Face masks provided for travelers
Hand sanitizer available to travelers and staff
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Full Day Private Athens Shore Excursion
2
If your cruise is only stopping in Athens for a day or so, this shore excursion offers a whistle-stop journey around all of the major landmarks of the cradle of Western civilization. Waste no time on a snails-pace group tour of one or two major landmarks; instead, see as much of the city as possible with private transport and a carefully planned itinerary.
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From
$201.46
Price varies by group size
From
$201.46
Price varies by group size
Hand sanitizer available to travelers and staff
Gear/equipment sanitized between use
Transportation vehicles regularly sanitized
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Athens Private Tour
1
Visiting Athens is a unique experience,so you can join us and you will have the chance to discover our history,civilization and beauty of our wonderful city.This tour gives you an opportunity to observe the striking contrasts that make Athens such a fascinating city.
First of all the duration of this tour is 4-5 hours. You can see the most important monuments of Athens.
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From
$363.40
per group
From
$363.40
per group
Athens Tour with Electric Bike
26
If you’re short on time and energy, cruise through Athens on an electric bike in just 3 hours. After being fitted with your bike, your private guide takes you past the city’s historic and modern sights. Stop whenever you like to ask questions or take photos. With the aid of your electric motor, cover several important areas of the city without getting worn out. Enjoy refreshing water or a bottle of beer at the end of your ride.
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From
$52.04
From
$52.04
Athens National Gardens Segway Tour
89
View the highlights of Athens with ease on this 2-hour Segway tour, with a local guide. Save your legs from walking and ride a fun, self-balancing, electric Segway around some of Athens’ top city sights as your guide recounts their history. See the Old Parliament House, Hadrian’s Arch and other landmarks; and admire the Temple of Zeus and Panathinaikos Stadium, home of the first modern Olympic Games. Choose from three departure times to suit your schedule and enjoy a personalized experience on a small-group tour that's limited to 12 people.
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From
$71.83
From
$71.83
Hand sanitizer available to travelers and staff
Social distancing enforced throughout experience
Regularly sanitized high-traffic areas
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Athens Sunset Bike Tour
194
Hop on a bike for this fun and fascinating 2-wheeled tour around Athens, capped off by an unforgettable sunset. Follow a friendly tour leader to most of the capital’s major sights and panoramic viewpoints. Cover much more ground than walking while enjoying the flexibility to stop often and soak up scenes of daily life along the way.
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From
$44.43
From
$44.43
Hand sanitizer available to travelers and staff
Social distancing enforced throughout experience
Gear/equipment sanitized between use
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Half Day Private Athens Shore Excursion
7
Get a quick overview of Athens’ main attractions on a private 5-hour shore excursion. The tour is perfect for travelers short on time who want to experience the best of the Greek capital. Begin with two hours to explore the Acropolis, followed by visits to the Temple of Zeus, Hadrian's Gate, and more. Be sure to have your camera ready for the changing of the guard ceremony outside the parliament building.
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From
$147.57
Price varies by group size
From
$147.57
Price varies by group size
Hand sanitizer available to travelers and staff
Gear/equipment sanitized between use
Transportation vehicles regularly sanitized
Learn More
Athens Morning Electric Bike Tour
127
Hop on an e-bike for a leisurely morning cycle through the historical center of Athens. With the bike’s electric motor, you’ll save your energy for sightseeing on a route that takes in landmarks such as the UNESCO-listed Athens Acropolis, National Garden, Panathenaic Stadium, and more. Ample photo stops are included through the tour, and you’ll also get a break for a coffee or ice cream, depending on the season.
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From
$54.78
From
$54.78
Hand sanitizer available to travelers and staff
Social distancing enforced throughout experience
Gear/equipment sanitized between use
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Full Day Private Cape Sounion and Athens Must See Tour
1
Combine a discreet Athens sightseeing tour with an escape to the scenic Cape Sounion on this private full-day tour. Avoid all the hold-ups and distractions that come with a large group tour as you move from highlight to highlight. Enjoy the views of the glittering Myrtoan Sea from the Temple of Poseidon before heading back to Athens in a private vehicle to explore local landmarks like the Acropolis and the Arch of Hadrian.
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From
$201.46
Price varies by group size
From
$201.46
Price varies by group size
Hand sanitizer available to travelers and staff
Gear/equipment sanitized between use
Transportation vehicles regularly sanitized
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Withlocals Highlights & Hidden Gems: Covid-19 Regulated Private Tour in Athens
52
Athens is known for both its ancient sites and its modern masterpieces. Explore the best of Athens on a private day tour. You’ll save time researching highlights by having a guide to shortlist and take you to the best bits. Your day will be enhanced with commentary along the way. Interesting attractions you’ll pass include Monastiraki Square, the Roman Agora, Hadrian’s Library, the Temple of Zeus, and Zappeion Hall.
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From
$94.97
Price varies by group size
From
$94.97
Price varies by group size
Face masks required for travelers in public areas
Face masks required for guides in public areas
Social distancing enforced throughout experience
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Athens Sunset Electric Bike Tour
4
Join in our Athens Sunset Electric Bike Tour and enjoy the city under the beautiful sunset light! Discover the secrets of Athens in a modern and environmentally friendly way! Enjoy the comfort of a pedal assist e- bike, while you explore the beauties of Athens.
Get ready to enjoy the sunset city vibes and see Athens turning into a picturesque paradise as all the highlights of the city center are lit by the gold, orange and pink sunset light.
Enjoying local flavors is one of the highlights of our tour. During our 20 minute break, at a nice Greek cafe, you will be offered a cup of traditional Greek coffee or some delicious Greek ice cream. Throughout this time, you will also get the chance to mingle with the rest of the group.
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From
$47.48
From
$47.48
Hand sanitizer available to travelers and staff
Social distancing enforced throughout experience
Gear/equipment sanitized between use
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Athens Shore Excursion: Private City Sightseeing and Acropolis Tour
21
Make the most of your time in port in Piraeus with a private half-day shore excursion to Athens. Unravel the secrets of Ancient Greece as you walk around the monumental ruins of the UNESCO-listed Acropolis of Athens (entrance not included) and the Parthenon. Then, hop aboard a minivan to see the rest of the city, including the lively Syntagma Square, the Panathinaikon Olympic Stadium and ancient landmarks like the Temple of Zeus and Hadrian’s Arch. Best of all: your tour is covered by Viator’s worry-free policy, ensuring on-time return to your cruise ship.
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From
$363.40
Price varies by group size
From
$363.40
Price varies by group size
Face masks required for travelers in public areas
Hand sanitizer available to travelers and staff
Social distancing enforced throughout experience
Learn More
Athens Shore Excursion: Private City Tour and Cape Sounion Trip
4
See the best of Athens and visit the Temple of Poseidon on a private, full-day shore excursion. Meet your guide at Piraeus Port, then climb into your private minivan and set off in search of the Greek capital’s premier sights. See Syntagma Square, the Temple of Olympian Zeus, Hadrian’s Arch and more while your guide talks about the history and mythology of Ancient Greece. Then, travel onward to Cape Sounion, the site of the ruined Temple of Poseidon.
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From
$460.86
Price varies by group size
From
$460.86
Price varies by group size
Face masks required for travelers in public areas
Hand sanitizer available to travelers and staff
Social distancing enforced throughout experience
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Acropolis Half-day Walking and Trikke Tour
6
Discover many of Athens’ historical gems on this half-day tour. By combining a walking tour and a Trikke tour, you’ll cover more ground and enjoy two very different experiences. The walking part of the tour will take you to places near the Acropolis that can only be reached on foot. Your Trikke ride will help you explore the rest of Athens at a faster pace—highlights include the National Gardens, and Zappeion Hall.
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From
$110.26
From
$110.26
Best of Athens: Private Full-Day Tour including the Acropolis & Acropolis Museum
4
Spend a full day exploring Athens. This tour allows you to visit highlights such as the Acropolis, the ancient Greek agora, Hadrian's Gate, and more. Stop in Plaka for free time and lunch. Round-trip private transportation included.
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From
$272.56
Price varies by group size
From
$272.56
Price varies by group size
Private Full day Athens Highlights Tour
2
Cover more than two millennia of history in just one day on a private 8-hour tour of Athens. Private transportation and an engaging guide ensure that you enjoy an immersive and holistic sightseeing experience. Ancient historical highlights include the Acropolis, Temple of Olympian Zeus, Panathenaic Stadium, and Mount Lycabettus. You also enjoy a tour of the popular labyrinth like neighborhood of Plaka.
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From
$201.46
Price varies by group size
From
$201.46
Price varies by group size
Hand sanitizer available to travelers and staff
Gear/equipment sanitized between use
Transportation vehicles regularly sanitized
Learn More
2-Day Combo Private Tour: Essential Athens & Temple of Poseidon plus Delphi
4
Cover three Athens’ area highlights over two day-long tours, all free from transport worries, on this private Athens trip. On Day 1, explore the Acropolis and Cape Sounion's Temple of Poseidon. On Day 2, head northwest to visit UNESCO-protected Delphi and its museum. Learn about the sites from your driver, and opt to hire guides (additional cost) at each location for historical commentary as you explore. Accommodation is excluded.
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From
$466.25
Price varies by group size
From
$466.25
Price varies by group size
Face masks required for guides in public areas
Face masks provided for travelers
Hand sanitizer available to travelers and staff
Learn More
Private Half-Day Athens Highlights Tour
7
Combine the classic with the contemporary on this private 5-hour sightseeing tour of Athens, designed for travellers seeking a personalized experience. Stay cool in the daytime heat as you travel in an air-conditioned vehicle to sights such as the iconic Acropolis, the Agora of Athens, and the Tomb of the Unknown Soldier. See, too, examples of modern architecture including the University of Athens and the National Library. Hotel pickup and drop-off in Athens are included on this private tour.
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From
$303.53
per group
From
$303.53
per group
Face masks required for travelers in public areas
Face masks required for guides in public areas
Face masks provided for travelers
Learn More
Acropolis Athens Classic eBike Tour
58
Discover the top sights of Athens with ease on an electric bike tour, led by a local guide. Hop on your electric-powered bike, and make light work of Athens’ attractions following a route that’s mostly traffic-free. Ride around the Acropolis rock and ancient agora, delve into historical Plaka, see the Bath House of the Winds, and more. Stop to savor a traditional Greek coffee, and learn about the sights via the crystal-clear headset commentary from your guide. Numbers are limited on this small-group tour for a more personalized experience.
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From
$55.76
From
$55.76
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