Athens tours — sunrise over the city skyline from Lycabettus Hill summit

Sunrise experience

Athens Tours Sunrise Walking Experience

As the city still sleeps, we begin to hike. The rewards are sunrise and breathtaking views from the summit of Lycabettus Hill.

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Morning pre-dawn

Time of day

1.5

Hours

4.4km

Distance

220m

Elevation

7,000

Steps

Max 10

Group size

English

Language

What to Expect

This isn't a leisurely stroll. It's an early morning adventure that rewards you with something most visitors to Athens never see: the city waking up from above.

Starting before dawn, you'll follow George through hidden trails and rugged paths that wind up Lycabettus Hill, Athens' tallest peak. As the sky begins to shift colour, you'll reach the summit just in time to watch the sunrise paint the city in golden light, with the Acropolis, the Aegean Sea, and the sprawling cityscape laid out before you.

Small groups of no more than 10 people mean George can share stories, point out hidden details, and adjust the pace to your group. The route back down takes a completely different path, offering fresh perspectives on the city below. It's one of the most unique things to do in Athens and a genuinely off-the-beaten-path experience.

Your Itinerary

1

Start the trek

We start our trek enjoying the peace while the city sleeps.

Pre-dawn scenic hiking trail leading to Lycabettus Hill on an Athens sunrise tour
2

The scenic trail

Navigate rugged hidden paths with views as we hike uphill.

3

Mount Lycabettus

Reach the summit and enjoy sunrise and the panoramic views.

Panoramic sunrise views over Athens from the Lycabettus Hill summit
4

Descending the hill

Enjoy very different views as we descend via the other side.

What to Bring

Comfortable walking shoes
Hat
Water
Phone/Camera

Meeting Point

Vallianeio Megaron

Panepistimiou Street, Athens 106 79, Greece

The middle building of the three Athens Trilogy neoclassical buildings. 2-minute walk from Panepistimio Metro Station (Red Line).

George arrives 10 minutes early. Look for the Ultimate Athens orange branded shirt.

Start and end point: Vallianeio Megaron

Questions About This Tour

What time does the sunrise tour start?
Start times vary by season to ensure we reach the summit before sunrise. George will confirm the exact meeting time when you book. Early morning starts are typical. Coffee helps, adrenaline helps more.
How difficult is the Sunrise Hike?
Moderate difficulty. The route covers 4.4km with 220m elevation gain over approximately 7,000 steps. A good level of fitness is essential, but you don't need to be an athlete.
Will I actually see the sunrise?
Athens has 300+ sunny days per year, so odds are excellent. Even cloudy sunrises can be dramatic and beautiful. We've never had someone regret the tour because of clouds.
What should I bring?
Comfortable walking shoes and water are the two essentials. In summer, add a hat, sunglasses, and sunscreen. A phone or camera for the views is a must.
Where do we meet?
Vallianeio Megaron, Panepistimiou Street, Athens 106 79. It's the middle building of the three Athens Trilogy neoclassical buildings. 2-minute walk from Panepistimio Metro Station (Red Line). George arrives 10 minutes early.

Explore More Experiences

Want a different challenge? Check out our other tours.

Conquer Lycabettus Ultimate Hills Climb

Ready to Chase the Sunrise?

Join George for the best sunrise in Athens. Small groups, hidden trails, and a view that's earned, not given.

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