D
Democracy/Philosophy tour
Extremely education and thought provoking. Thoroughly enjoyable. The guides and other guests on the tour were great. Highly recommend.
Philosophy and Democracy Tour of Athens - Small Group Tour
+4 photos
At a glance
- Duration
- 3 hours
- Price from
- $50 / person
- Rating
- 5.0 / 5 · 400 reviews
- Languages
- EN
- Group
- Small group, up to 15
- Cancellation
- Free cancellation
- Meeting point
- In front of the statue of Thisseas (in the small park, opposite Adrianou 1 street)
- Confirmation
- Instant
Prices checked on Sep 11, 2026Things to do in Athens
Description
This is not the usual "touristy" tour but rather a philosophical walk, in between the landmarks of Athens! In this tour, we will: a. See many of the most important landmarks of ancient Athens (we don't enter all of them, that would take 8 to 9 hours!) b. Have an overview of the city’s ancient history and discuss about its greatest achievements such as Philosophy, Democracy, Sciences, Arts etc. c. Examine some of the ancient philosophical theories under a new light due to surprising latest scientific discoveries d. Discuss the ancient Democracy compared to the modern e. Give you tips for sightseeing, museums, activities, food, night life and anything you want to know!
Tour Options
Itinerary
This place was the heart of the city of Athens. Philosophers like Socrates, Plato, politicians like Solon, Themistocles, Pericles, Thoucidides,Sofoklis, Aristofanis,that consisted the “Dream Team” of Athens, prominent Athenians and simple citizens walked here and had discussions and debates for all matters.
We take an easy pace walk through the Flea market of Athens
Hadrian's Library was created by Roman Emperor Hadrian in AD 132 on the north side of the Acropolis of Athens.
The Roman Agora at Athens is located to the north of the Acropolis and to the east of the Ancient Agora.
The octagonal building called the Tower of the Winds was made by the astronomer Andronicus of Kyrristos, in the 1st century BC and served both as wind indicator but also a clock, so it was the “Big Ben” of Athens and also the meteorological station of the city. The clock was solar but in cloudy days there was also a hydraulic mechanism that produced a sound every hour! It’s considered the first meteo station.
Plaka is a scenic neighborhood of Athens with small houses and narrow streets.
At this spot we pay a tribute to a great philosopher!
Pnyx Hill is considered the "cradle of democracy" since it was the first place in the world that people took decisions for their future. The place offers great views to Acropolis and Athens.
Greece's greatest monument is now yours to visit and admire
Highlights
Gratuities
What's included
Included
Gratuities
Traveller Ratings
5.0
400 reviews
Important Information
- Service animals allowed
- Public transportation options are available nearby
- Suitable for all physical fitness levels
Frequently asked questions
How long does Philosophy and Democracy Tour of Athens - Small Group Tour take?
Philosophy and Democracy Tour of Athens - Small Group Tour lasts about 3 hours. The itinerary has 9 stops.
How much does Philosophy and Democracy Tour of Athens - Small Group Tour cost?
Prices start at $50 per person for this Athens experience, booked through Viator with the price shown before checkout. There is 1 booking option, so the final price depends on the option you choose.
Can I cancel Philosophy and Democracy Tour of Athens - Small Group Tour for free?
Yes. Cancel at least 1 day before the start for a full refund. Later cancellations are non-refundable.
Where does the tour start?
The meeting point is In front of the statue of Thisseas (in the small park, opposite Adrianou 1 street). Hotel pickup is not part of this experience.
What languages is Philosophy and Democracy Tour of Athens - Small Group Tour offered in?
The experience is available in EN.
Is this a private or a group tour?
It is a small-group experience with a maximum of 15 participants.
Will my booking be confirmed immediately?
Yes, bookings are confirmed instantly.
Is Philosophy and Democracy Tour of Athens - Small Group Tour worth it?
Travellers rate it 5.0 out of 5 across 400 verified reviews; it is run by Athens Classic Tour. Most-mentioned highlights: Gratuities.
Reviews(400)
H
Such an informative and...
Such an informative and amazing introduction to democracy and philosophy in Athens. Would recommend to anybody who wants to gain a bit more insight into Ancient Greece and how it has influenced the modern world.
Operator response
Hello Helen, thanks a lot for your great review! Wish you all the best!
L
A different tour that will blow your mind!
A wonderfully done, different type of tour. You learn a bit about historical sites, but more focus on the socratic and democratic history of Greece. At the end you truly discuss the great thinkers and tie it into today's subjects. This tour was a nice break from hearing all about building history. Our teen boys enjoyed the discussions- but they've studied these philosophers at school. Well done!
1 people found this helpful
Operator response
Hello Lauren, I am very glad to hear that you all enjoyed the tour! My best regards!
E
Very interesting & some fantastic sights!
Fantastic experience! The tour was the perfect length & the route was accessible. I appreciated the break for refreshments and the chance to use the toilet. Very interesting & some fantastic sights! Lots of fascinating facts & stories to bring back to my friends.
Operator response
Hello Emma, I am very glad for your fantastic comments! My best regards!
M
This tour was great...
This tour was great introduction to Greek philosophy which I have avoided for decades. It was way better than reading introductory book as our guide took us to multiple landmarks and gave us lessons relevant to each of them. He was very good at explaining this difficult subject simply so I guess he used to be an academic or a school teacher.
Operator response
Hello Masataka, I am glad to hear that, you were also a good student! My best regards!
S
Thought-full tour
What an amazing walk through thousands of years of history and ideas (despite extreme heat). Ended with our own “symposium” in a shaded garden. My 13 year old son declared it one of the best days of his life and particularly remarked on the curiosity sparked by Panos.
Operator response
Hello Sonja, to learn that your son was inspired is a great reward for me, thank you! My best regards!
G
We had a wonderful...
We had a wonderful evening with Panos and our small group. This was one of the most unique tours we have ever been on and Panos weaved together the city's history, philosophy and mythology in a truly compelling way. Would recommend 10/10 to anyone interested in a deeper understanding of this city beyond the usual sites.
Operator response
Hello Gowri, thanks a lot for your great comment! My best regards!
R
This tour is not your boring everyday touristy tour, thank god.
I think Panos's tour should be obligatory to everyone visiting Athens. It was so good, easily the highlight of our trip. Panos was so funny and knowledgeable, and we learned a lot. The first part of the tour focused to give an overview of Athen's history, and the second part focused more to philosophy and the development of democracy. I especially enjoyed how Panos connected antique Athens to modern day. There are definitely many things that our modern societies could learn from the athenians. We were a group of around 10 people, which was great, everyone could ask their questions and interact with the guide. Go with an open mind, and ask questions – you'll be surprised how much you can learn in just three hours.
Operator response
Hello Jonna, I am always glad when I get great reviews from everyone but even more when they come from a colleague! Wish you all the best!
J
Best tour we have had!!! This is the TRUTH!
He was so thoughtful and conscientious . Articulate about everything!!! Pace of speak and clarity perfectly.Watched out for all different aged people. Humorous and knowledgeable. Receptive to all questions!!!
Operator response
Hello John, you made my day, thanks a lot! My best regards!
M
Wonderful history and...
Wonderful history and insight and a beautiful stroll around Athens and some less well known stops! We highly recommend!
Operator response
Hi Melanie, thanks for your comments! My best regards!
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