The NightCrawlers | Athens Bar Hopping | Pub Crawl

Getting a taste of Athens after dark is an adventure in itself, and this private pub crawl offers a lively way to explore the city’s nightlife. Priced at just under $20 per person, it promises an evening full of free shots, discounts, and fun. With an average booking window of 36 days in advance, this tour is clearly popular among travelers looking to mingle, discover local bars, and experience Athens in a relaxed, social atmosphere.

What we really appreciate about this experience is the focus on personalized service — it’s a private tour, so you won’t be stuck in a giant crowd. The hosts are acknowledged for their friendliness, local knowledge, and ability to create a welcoming vibe. But, as with any pub crawl, there are some things to consider—like the atmosphere shifting into more club-like venues later in the night, which might not suit everyone’s taste.

This tour is ideal for solo travelers, groups of friends, or anyone wanting a relaxed yet energetic introduction to Athens’ nightlife. If you’re after an authentic, social experience with good value, this might be just what you’re looking for.

Key Points

• Personalized Private Experience — Only your group participates, avoiding large crowds.
• Free Shots & Cocktail Discounts — Enjoy complimentary drinks at each bar, plus special prices.
• Variety of Venues — From Greek island-style bars to Latin dance spots and lively clubs.
• Interactive & Social — Drinking games and friendly hosts encourage mingling.
• Flexible Duration — Approximate 3 to 5 hours, depending on how long you stay.
• No Hotel Pickup — You meet directly at the designated starting point.

Exploring the Itinerary in Detail

The journey begins in Pl. Monastirakiou, a bustling central square, perfect for kicking off an evening that promises fun and socializing. The first stop, Favorita, immediately sets a warm tone. Recognized as a Greek island-style bar, Favorita offers unique cocktails and shots, and the owner’s hospitality shines through with a complimentary shot upon arrival. Reviewers praise the friendly atmosphere here, with Mica_H describing it as “the best experience ever,” highlighting the welcoming vibe that the hosts fostered.

After an hour at Favorita, the tour moves to Dos Gardenias, a stunning Latin bar with a lively ambiance. One of the highlights here is the presence of a dancing instructor, which guests say adds a wonderful touch, making it easier to get into the rhythm and perhaps even learn a few salsa steps. Reviewers appreciated this, noting it as a fun way to loosen up and meet others. It’s worth noting that this stop is generally less crowded, giving you a chance to chat and connect with your group.

The final destination is Backdoor Athens, known for its live shows, karaoke nights, and a vibrant club scene. This venue tends to get loud and energetic as the night progresses—something many guests enjoy, but which might not appeal to everyone. Some reviewers, like Monica_C, enjoyed the chance to discover Athens’ bustling nightlife in a more intimate setting, while others, like Jordy_G, found it a bit too empty or loud for meaningful conversations.

What to Expect From Each Stop

Favorita: Expect a Greek island vibe, with cozy decor and a friendly owner who greets you with a shot. The focus here is on relaxed socializing and enjoying some signature cocktails. The setting is intimate enough to get to know your fellow travelers.

Dos Gardenias: This Latin-themed bar offers a more lively, dance-oriented atmosphere. You might find yourself trying salsa moves with the help of the dance instructor, or simply soaking in the vibrant decor and spirited ambience. The bar often features good music and a chance to dance the night away.

Backdoor Athens: As the final stop, this venue often hosts live entertainment like karaoke or other shows. It’s a mix of dance club and live music venue, meaning the energy can be high, especially if the night includes special events. Guests have noted the music is loud, and the crowd more like a club scene, perfect if you want to dance or sing along.

What’s Included & What’s Not

The tour offers free shots at each pub, which is a fantastic way to try local favorites without the worry of paying for each drink. Plus, skip the queues and enjoy discounted cocktails at the second venue, adding serious value to the experience. The private nature of the tour means your group gets personalized attention, and you won’t be mixed with strangers outside your party.

However, it’s important to note that hotel pickup and drop-off are not included. Travelers need to make their own way to the meeting point, which is well-located near public transportation—convenient for most visitors. Also, drinks at the venues are not included (apart from the complimentary shots), so budget accordingly if you plan to indulge.

The Experience: Pros and Cons Based on Reviews

Guests consistently commend the knowledgeable and friendly guides—names like Labros and other hosts are often praised for their warmth and local insights. Many reviewers mention the fun atmosphere created by the hosts, who keep things lively with drinking games and social encouragement. As Corey_T put it, “The hosts were very friendly and knowledgeable about the area,” which can make a big difference in a city’s nightlife.

On the downside, some guests experienced moments of disappointment—specifically when the guides left early or skipped parts of the itinerary. For instance, Jordy_G felt the experience was the “worst pub crawl ever,” citing skipped bars and a host who left around midnight. It’s worth noting that the tour typically visits three bars, with some nights possibly stretching to four depending on availability, and that the guides typically stay for a while before bidding farewell.

A few reviewers also pointed out that some venues felt too empty or too loud, which can impact the overall vibe. For example, Malin_W mentions the last club was “a bit empty,” which might affect the energy level. Plus, some guests felt the drinks weren’t necessarily highly alcoholic, with one reviewer noting the shots seemed non-alcoholic—though many found them tasty.

The Value Proposition

At $18.90 per person, this pub crawl offers a great opportunity to socialize and explore Athens’ nightlife without breaking the bank. The inclusion of free shots, free entrance to clubs, and cocktail discounts at the second pub makes it a budget-friendly choice for travelers eager to meet people and enjoy local drinks. Compared to the cost of individual drinks and entrance fees at popular venues, the package offers a well-rounded, value-packed experience.

The tour’s duration of 3 to 5 hours is ideal—it allows enough time to sample different atmospheres without dragging on too long, especially considering the late start at 9:00 pm. The private format means you can tailor the experience slightly, spending more or less time at certain stops if you wish.

Who Will Love This Tour?

This experience is perfect for solo travelers who want to meet new people, groups of friends looking for a fun night out, or anyone eager to discover Athens’ vibrant bar scene in a relaxed, social way. It’s especially suited to those who enjoy interactive experiences—like drinking games—and prefer a personalized approach over large group tours.

Night owls and those interested in a lively club scene will likely enjoy the final venue, but if you’re seeking a more subdued, conversation-based evening, the earlier stops are more suitable. Keep in mind that the atmosphere can shift into club mode later in the night, which might not be ideal for everyone.

Final Thoughts: Is It Worth It?

The NightCrawlers Athens Pub Crawl delivers a fun, social way to experience Athens after dark. The friendly guides, free shots, and varied venues make it an enjoyable choice for those looking to meet new people and enjoy a relaxed night out. While some guests experienced issues like early guide departures or less crowded venues, the consistent praise for the hosts’ friendliness and the overall vibe suggests most will find this tour worthwhile.

If you’re a traveler seeking authentic local nightlife, chance encounters, and good value, this tour is a solid pick. It’s especially suited for those who prioritize social interactions, relaxed atmospheres, and a taste of Athens’ diverse bar scene.

FAQs

Is this tour suitable for solo travelers?
Absolutely. Many reviews mention how welcoming and friendly the guides are, making it a good way to meet people.

Do I need to bring my own drinks?
No, but drinks at the venues are not included except for the free shots. You can purchase additional drinks during the tour.

Are the drinks at each pub free?
Guests receive complimentary shots at each bar, but additional drinks need to be paid for.

What’s the typical duration of the pub crawl?
It lasts about 3 to 5 hours, starting at 9:00 pm, depending on how long you choose to stay at each venue.

Is transportation provided?
No, you meet directly at the designated starting point near public transportation; no hotel pickup is included.

Can I join if I don’t drink alcohol?
Yes, the tour is social in nature, and you are not required to consume alcohol. Just inform your guides if you prefer non-alcoholic options.

What’s the dress code?
While not explicitly stated, most venues in Athens suggest casual smart attire; avoid overly casual or beachwear.

Is this tour suitable for underage guests?
Since alcohol consumption is involved, it’s generally geared towards adults over 18, but check with the provider for specific age policies.

Will I get to explore unique or local bars?
Yes, the tour includes a Greek island-style bar, a Latin bar, and a lively club, offering a taste of Athens’ diverse nightlife.

What should I do if I want to extend my night?
You’re free to stay at the final venue longer; the guides typically leave around midnight, but you can continue enjoying the scene on your own.

To sum it up, the NightCrawlers Athens pub crawl offers a budget-friendly, social, and lively introduction to Athens’ nightlife scene. It’s best suited for travelers who want a relaxed yet engaging way to meet new friends, sample local drinks, and enjoy the city’s after-dark energy. While some minor hiccups have been noted, the overall experience—especially the friendly guides and fun venues—make it a worthwhile option for many visitors.