Big Bus: Athens, Piraeus & Riviera Hop-On Hop-Off Bus Tour at Athens
Big Bus: Athens Hop-on Hop-off Bus Tour
Customer reviews
Summarised reviews
- Spectacular visuals
Visitors rave about the Athens Line - Grey Route Big Bus tour, praising its convenient and relaxing way to explore the city's top attractions. With a 4.20/5 rating based on 136 reviews, this tour is a must-do for anyone looking to experience the best of Athens. Don't miss out on the stunning views, rich history, and charming local districts that this tour has to offer.
Choose your experience
Big Bus: Athens, Piraeus & Riviera Hop-On Hop-Off Bus Tour
This hop-on hop-off bus tour covers three distinct routes across Athens and its surroundings, giving you the freedom to explore at your own pace. The Athens City route (Grey) takes you past the Acropolis, Temple of Zeus, and Panathenaic Stadium through the historic centre. The Piraeus route (Purple) connects you to the port city and its maritime attractions, whilst the Riviera route (Green) follows the stunning Athenian coastline to beaches like Kavouri and Astir Beach.
You can choose from 24-hour, 48-hour, or 72-hour passes, with the longest option including an exclusive night tour that shows the Acropolis and Parthenon illuminated after dark. Each route operates at different frequencies, from every 20 minutes on the main Athens line to every 2 hours on the coastal Riviera route.
What is Included
- 24, 48 or 72-hour hop-on hop-off Athens bus tour pass
- One-hour night tour with 72-hour option
- Access to Athens City, Piraeus and Riviera lines (by ticket type)
- Audio commentary in 14 languages
- Free on-board Wi-Fi and earphones
Good to Know
The Athens City route runs from 9am to 6pm with buses every 20 minutes. The Piraeus line operates from 12:30pm to 4:15pm every 75 minutes, whilst the Riviera route runs from 10am to 5:20pm every 2 hours. All routes start from the Acropolis stop.
The night tour (available with 72-hour passes only) departs twice daily from Parliament (Stop 6) at 8:15pm and 9:15pm. Arrive 15 minutes early for this one-hour illuminated tour of Athens' monuments.
The buses are wheelchair accessible and you can board at any official stop throughout your pass duration. Pets are not permitted except guide dogs. If you're planning to explore more of Greece's ancient sites, consider combining your Athens tour with an Athens Acropolis and Museum guided tour for deeper historical context. For those interested in coastal excursions, the Athens Saronic Islands day cruise offers another perspective on the region's maritime heritage.
Good to know
- Age suitability
- This tour is suitable for all ages. However, some attractions may have age or height restrictions, so please check with the tour staff or attraction operators for more information.
- Know before you go
Before embarking on your Athens Line - Grey Route Big Bus tour, make sure to bring a valid ticket, wear comfortable shoes, and arrive at least 15 minutes prior to the scheduled departure time. Don't forget to bring sunscreen and a hat to protect yourself from the sun. As the bus may have stairs, it's recommended to check with the driver for accessibility assistance. Lastly, be prepared for potential crowds and long lines at popular attractions.
- Visitor guidelines
Discover Athens Your Way
Choose the flexibility of a 24, 48 or 72-hour hop-on hop-off bus ticket and experience Athens on your schedule. The tour lets you explore ancient landmarks, vibrant neighborhoods and stunning coastal sights while enjoying commentary and a comfortable seat on an open-top double-decker bus.
Athens Line - Grey Route
Journey through Athens’ historic center past neoclassical buildings, celebrated stadiums and lush gardens. The Grey Route stops at world-renowned sites like the Acropolis, Temple of Zeus and Panathenaic Stadium. Hop off to discover charming districts and important museums at your pace.
First bus: 9am from Acropolis
Last bus: 6pm from Acropolis
Frequency: Every 20 minutes
Main stops: Temple of Zeus, Acropolis Museum, Panathenaic Stadium
Piraeus Line - Purple Route
Travel to the port city of Piraeus, observing lively harbors and city landmarks like the Municipal Theatre. This route offers convenient connections for cruise ship passengers and those exploring Athens’ maritime side.
First bus: 12:30pm from Acropolis
Last bus: 4:15pm from Acropolis
Frequency: Every 75 minutes
Main stops: Intercontinental, Municipal Theatre, Planetarium
Riviera Line - Green Route
Experience the breathtaking Athenian coastline, passing glamorous marinas, beautiful beaches and historic highlights. The Green Route allows easy access to Athens’ scenic waterfront locations.
First bus: 10am from Acropolis
Last bus: 5:20pm from Acropolis
Frequency: Every 2 hours
Main stops: Kavouri Beach, Astir Beach, Vouliagmeni Lake
Flexible Hop-on Hop-off Convenience
Board the bus at any of the stops for unlimited rides during your ticket period. Take advantage of frequent services and thoughtfully planned routes to reach every corner of Athens and surrounds.
Exclusive Night Tour (72-Hour Option)
With the 72-hour ticket, join a special hour-long night tour to see the Acropolis and Parthenon aglow, plus other city icons beautifully lit in the evening. Departure is from Parliament (Stop 6) at 8:15pm and 9:15pm. Please arrive 15 minutes early.
Night tour duration: 1 hour
Frequency: Twice daily departures
On-Board Comforts
Enjoy pre-recorded audio commentary in 14 languages for cultural and historical insight
Free Wi-Fi and earphones included with every ticket
For more information about routes and stops, view the full map and boarding details here.
Join or leave the tour at any official stop throughout Athens, Piraeus or the Riviera line for the length of your pass. Buses are valid for use on Gray Line’s networks throughout the city.
Book your Big Bus: Athens Hop-on Hop-off Bus Tour tickets now!
Frequently asked
How do I use my hop-on hop-off pass?
Board at any stop with your ticket and enjoy unlimited access for the pass duration.
Is the bus accessible for wheelchairs?
Yes, the Athens hop-on hop-off buses are wheelchair friendly and accessible.
Are pets allowed on the bus?
No, pets are not permitted except for guide dogs traveling with their owners.
Do I need to bring headphones for the audio guide?
Disposable wired earphones are provided but you may bring your own if preferred.
Can I join the tour at any stop?
Yes, you can start or leave the tour at any official bus stop along the routes.
Where you'll be
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