Athens Museum Walking Tour – Benaki & Cycladic Art Experience

Pick Up form your Hotel

• Meet your private driver at your hotel to start the tour

Guided Tour to Benaki Museum

• The Benaki Museum is located in the heart of Athens and is renowned for its comprehensive collection of Greek art and artifacts. It is housed in a neoclassical building that was once the residence of the Benaki family, a prominent Greek family of art collectors.
• a. Ground Floor: Upon entering the museum, you'll find the ground floor dedicated to ancient Greek art. Here, you can explore exhibits featuring pottery, sculptures, and other artifacts from the Cycladic, Minoan, and Mycenaean civilizations. These artifacts provide insights into the artistic and cultural achievements of these ancient Greek civilizations.
• b. First Floor: Moving up to the first floor, you'll encounter Byzantine and post-Byzantine art. Marvel at the intricate religious icons, exquisite frescoes, and delicate textiles that reflect the rich artistic heritage of the Byzantine Empire. The collections here span from the early Christian period to the Ottoman era.
• c. Second Floor: The second floor focuses on Greek folk art and traditional costumes, offering a glimpse into the everyday life and cultural traditions of the Greek people. Explore the colorful regional costumes, intricately woven textiles, and ornate household objects that highlight the diversity and craftsmanship of Greek folk art.
• d. Third Floor: The third floor is dedicated to modern Greek art from the 19th and 20th centuries. Here, you'll find a wide range of paintings, sculptures, and mixed media works by renowned Greek artists. This section of the museum provides an opportunity to trace the evolution of Greek art in the modern era

​Guided Tour to Cycladic Museum

• After your exploration of the Benaki Museum, your tour continues at the nearby Cycladic Museum. This museum is solely dedicated to the art and culture of the Cycladic civilization, which thrived in the Aegean region during the Early Bronze Age (3,200-2,000 BC).
• a. Collection Highlights: The Cycladic Museum houses a remarkable collection of Cycladic art, renowned for its minimalist and abstract style. You'll encounter stunning marble figurines, primarily representing human figures in various poses. These figurines are known for their elegant simplicity and timeless beauty, providing a unique glimpse into the artistic achievements of this ancient civilization.
• b. Thematic Exhibits: In addition to the figurines, the museum also features thematic exhibits that explore various aspects of Cycladic culture, including pottery, tools, and jewelry. These exhibits shed light on the daily life, rituals, and burial practices of the Cycladic people, offering a comprehensive understanding of this fascinating civilization.
• c. Temporary Exhibitions: The Cycladic Museum frequently hosts temporary exhibitions that showcase contemporary art inspired by or in dialogue with Cycladic art. These exhibitions provide a modern perspective on the ancient artistic tradition, creating an engaging juxtaposition of the old and the new.

Drop off at your Hotel

• At the end of the tour the driver transfer you back to your hotel