Experience an unforgettable 6-hour Jewish tour in Athens, designed exclusively for Jewish individuals traveling via cruise or those drawn to this fascinating aspect of the city. Our private shore excursion provides a unique opportunity to merge the rich cultures of Ancient Greece and Judaism in a short time frame.
Greece has long been a pivotal location for Jews, even before the Diaspora in 71 A.D. The Jewish community in Greece was primarily comprised of Greek and Spanish speakers, including the Romaniotes who have resided there since the Hellenistic era (3rd century B.C.). This is evident through both archaeological findings and historical accounts.
For more than 2,300 years, Athens and Thessaloniki boasted bustling Jewish communities in Greece. Tragically, World War II brought this thriving history to an abrupt end. Nevertheless, Athens has since witnessed a Jewish renaissance, as Holocaust survivors and younger generations explore and embrace their Jewish heritage.
Come join us on a journey through the rich and vibrant Jewish community of Athens. We’ll take you back in time to experience what life was like for Jews in this city, and show you what the community has become today. We also want to share our hopes and dreams for the future of the community. Embrace the opportunity to delve into the fascinating history of the Jewish people in Athens and see how the community has evolved before, during, and after the war.
Highlights of the Charming 6 hours Jewish private shore excursion in Athens
- Visit the old and new Synagogue of Athens
- The Jewish Museum of Athens
- Visit the Acropolis and Parthenon
- Enjoy a city tour in Athens with a professional English-speaking driver
- The Jewish tour is available as a shore excursion from your cruise ship at the Port of Piraeus (Athens)
Description of the half-day private Jewish excursion in Athens
The Athens Synagogue
The Charming 6 hours Jewish private shore excursion in Athens private tour starts in the morning from your cruise ship pier where our driver will pick you up for your shore excursion…
Drive along with the scenic suburbs of Athens and Piraeus to the heart of Athens, where you can see the Etz Hayyim Synagogue of Athens – the Old Synagogue of Athens built-in 1904.
You will also visit the New Synagogue Beth Shalom Synagogue (Hebrew: בית כנסת בית שלום) built-in 1935, as well as the memorial of the holocaust. Close to it, you can see the ancient cemetery of Keramikos from the 8th century BC.
As your journey takes you from the stunning Synagogue to the charming streets of Plaka, you will be immersed in the beauty and history of this vibrant city.
The Jewish Museum
Along the way, you will discover the renowned Jewish Museum, a remarkable building housing an array of significant artifacts and poignant reminders of the Holocaust. Explore its impressive collection of Hebrew books and other cultural treasures as you delve into the rich Jewish heritage of Europe. (website of the Jewish Museum of Greece).
The Athens Acropolis
Experience the city’s iconic symbol at the Acropolis, the next stop on the private tour following Plaka. Marvel at the majestic gates of the Holy Rock of Athens as you make your way to the Propylaea, the Temple of Athena Nike, and the stunning Temple of Erechtheion, adorned with the famous Maidens.
And finally, prepare to be in awe at the main attraction of the tour – the Parthenon, a paragon of classical architecture.
Next, our exclusive tour will escort you to the bustling heart of the city, guiding you through the energetic Syntagma square. Here, you’ll have the opportunity to admire the iconic Parliament of Greece (formerly known as the Royal Palace), stroll through the beautiful National Gardens, and pay tribute at the solemn Tomb of the Unknown Soldier.
Notes:
- The Synagogues do not have entrance fees, but you will be asked to make a donation.
- The private Jewish tour in Athens runs every day, however, you should note that the Jewish Museum is closed on Saturdays and the Synagogue holds the Sabbath services.
- On Sundays, the New Synagogue is closed, and the old Synagogue is closed both on Saturdays and Sundays.
