Athens Walks
Athens Walks is a tour operator based in Athens, Greece, offering guided walking tours and cultural experiences throughout the city.
Founded in 2012 by former Presidential Guard Kostas Chatzivasileiou, the company specializes in small-group tours led by licensed guides, covering major archaeological and historical sites such as the Acropolis, the Parthenon, the Ancient Agora, and the Plaka district.
History
Athens Walks was established in 2012 during Greece’s financial crisis, when founder Kostas Chatzivasileiou decided to remain in his home country and create a company promoting Greek culture and heritage. Initially operating as a small start-up, the company grew into one of the most recognized tour providers in Athens, known for its focus on historical accuracy, storytelling, and personal engagement with visitors.
Operations
The company provides a range of cultural and thematic tours, including:
- Acropolis and Parthenon guided tours
- Athens food and market tours
- Day trips to Delphi, Aegina, Ancient Corinth, and Nafplion
- Private and group walking tours with licensed guides
Athens Walks also operates a tour meeting point near the Acropolis, where guests gather before departure.
Founder
Kostas Chatzivasileiou (born 1982 in Athens) served as a member of the Greek Presidential Guard before founding Athens Walks. A graduate in Business Administration, Chatzivasileiou became known for a widely circulated photograph of him in traditional Evzone uniform guarding the Tomb of the Unknown Soldier. His transition from national guard to entrepreneur has been featured in several Greek and international publications.
Awards and recognition
Athens Walks has received multiple distinctions within the European travel industry:
- Best Tour Company in Greece (2018)
- Best Tour Operator in Europe by Arival (2025)
- Tripadvisor Travelers’ Choice Awards in several consecutive years
The company has been cited by travel media including *Kathimerini*, *TravelDailyNews*, and *Greek City Times* for its contribution to cultural tourism in Athens.
See also
References
1. Kathimerini – Culture & Travel 2. TravelDailyNews Greece & Cyprus 3. Arival – European Travel Awards 4. Tripadvisor – Athens Walks 5. Official website
External links
Category:Tour operators Category:Companies based in Athens Category:Tourism in Greece Category:Companies established in 2012
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