Private Stargazing in the Heart of Athens, Athens

Unveiling the Magic of Athens: Myth, History & Astronomy in One Night

Overview

Join a mythology astro tour designed for families, starting in Lysikratous Square, where a knowledgeable guide will lead you through Plaka, Athens' oldest neighborhood. Discover Greek myths and legends during your stroll, before arriving at the Athens National Observatory on the Hill of the Nymphs. Here, you'll explore the historic astronomical library, learn about the Antikythera mechanism, and view the stars through the Doridis refracting telescope. An astronomer will share stories of constellations tied to mythology, concluding a tour that perfectly blends Greek history and celestial wonders, ideal for families and mythology enthusiasts.

Highlights

  • Explore the charming Plaka neighborhood while delving into captivating Greek myths
  • Discover fascinating tales of gods and heroes, including stories of the city's creation
  • Visit the historic Athens National Observatory and its astronomical library on the Hill of the Nymphs
  • Gaze at the stars through the historic Doridis refracting telescope
  • Enjoy a captivating talk from an astronomer about constellations and their mythical connections

Know before you go

Duration
3 hours
Recommended for
All ages
Group
Private

What you'll do

Join our mythology astro tour, a captivating experience perfect for families with children aged three and up. The adventure kicks off in Lysikratous Square, located in the charming Plaka neighborhood. Here, you'll be greeted by our engaging mythology guide, who will lead you on a stroll through Plaka's enchanting streets, known for their history and picturesque settings. As you wander, you'll dive into the fascinating world of Greek myths, learning about gods, heroes, love stories, and legendary quarrels in a fun and entertaining manner.

As you weave through secret alleys and courtyards, your journey will culminate at the Athens National Observatory. Established in 1842 on the Hill of the Nymphs, this historic site offers breathtaking views of Athens. During your visit, you'll explore the venerable Sinas building, home to a remarkable astronomical library. Here, you will uncover the mysteries of time measurement, navigation, and the fabled Antikythera mechanism. The experience is further enriched with the opportunity to gaze at the night sky through the Doridis refracting telescope, a marvel crafted in 1902 by the renowned French company P.F. Gautier.

An astronomer will enhance your visit with a captivating talk about constellations and the myths surrounding them, such as the tale of Castor and Pollux's celestial adventures. You'll gain insights into the creation of the Moon, the giant gas planets, and the life of stars. As the presentation concludes, so does your tour, leaving you with a magical memory of the Nymphs Hill, illuminated by the city lights and the iconic Acropolis. As you depart, you'll find yourself perfectly situated to enjoy a leisurely stroll or a delightful dinner at a nearby Greek tavern, rounding off your evening in Athens with authentic local flavors.

Before embarking on this tour, remember that it is available year-round and requires advance booking at least 24 hours in advance. The activity is designed to accommodate groups of 2 to 12 participants and operates during the evening, from 16:30 to 19:30 in the winter months (November to March) and from 19:00 to 22:00 in the summer months (April to October). This enchanting journey through mythology and astronomy is a must-do for families and anyone intrigued by the stories of the stars and the rich tapestry of Greek history.

What's included

  • A tour leader for the walk
  • Private visit to the National Observatory and talk
  • Sky observation through a telescope

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Like what you see?

Chat with our local specialists and let us help you customize your trip with experiences like this.

Get started