I will be doing a 1/2 day tour of Athens with George The Famous Taxi Driver before my friends join me. George has told me he can't go in the Acropolis with me but could get a guide to meet me there. Is it worth it or should I just read up and do it on my own? Thoughts? TIA

I have never visited an ancient site anywhere in the world (oops, Machu Picchu was the exception) accompanied by a professional guide. My wife says that the difference between with and without one is similar to eating a Sacher Torte with or without... chocolate. Since she made this discovery, she will not accept to go see anything without one!

Just one word of caution, though. In Greece "guiding" is regulated by the Ministry of Culture. Only licensed (i.e with a degree from University or Government-run colleges and a license) guides can do it; this is really enforced! Make sure that the one provided by your cab driver is indeed licensed and not just a friend of the cousin of his .

Klouis - thanks! He actually told me that he couldn't accompany me as he is not licensed but would provide a guide who is licensed just for the Acropolis.

I was just there last Thurs. I read alittle in an Eyewitness guidebook before going and as I walked around at times there were a few groups which was being led by an English speaking guide , so I just listened in. Im interested in history but couldnt cope with a guide for a couple of hours.

It was interesting but much preferred reading the info on the stands that were spread about and simply enjoying the place in and of itself. Im sure I missed out on some things but I enjoyed the visit which I wouldnt have being attached to a guide the whole time.

There were some folks walking around listening to an app they down loaded that explained things, sorry I didnt ask what app, but they did tell someone it was a free app

If you decide not to get the guide, you might want to d/l Rick Steves' audiotour of the Acropolis.

I used a few of them on a recent trip to Europe, and they were very good.

Not as good as the tour guides I had at the Colosseum and the Pyramids, but they added to the experience at the Roman Forum, St Peters, Florence and Amsterdam.

Thank you. I did finally engage a guide as I've had them with my DH at all other historical places and wondered why, just because he wasn't going, that I'd stint.
He has been to Athens before so.... he would prefer to rent a car and drive out to Mycenae (sp?) and Delphi the next couple of days before embarking on our cruise.