Travel has changed, and will probably continue changing. Since 2020 we have been forced to minimize our trips, especially to other countries, and alter drastically our traveling philosophy. We move through the world having safety primarily in mind, whereas before it was more about the adventure, and the new people we would meet. Openness has shifted to seclusiveness, and travelers nowadays often turn to private experiences to ensure minimum health risk. Pandemic or not, private travel is not only for celebrities and millionaires, let alone that treating yourself and your dear ones with small, affordable luxuries can transform even the most ordinary things into special moments of indulgence. Therefore, it would be useful to explore what a private tour could really offer you over a group experience.

1. Ultimate flexibility (and independence)

Forget about set times, fixed schedules, specific stops, and prearranged breaks that you have to follow as part of a group. You will be free as a bird to choose when and where to do just about anything. Stop when you want, see what you want, and skip what does not look all that interesting. You and only you decide how and on what your precious time (perhaps our most valuable asset) is spent. Sounds great, doesn't it?

2. Be with the ones you want (or enjoy your own company)

The pandemic has somewhat narrowed down the number of people we meet face-to-face, and it is true that meeting like-minded travelers can be interesting and fun, but what happens when your group is not really what you imagined. Being with people you cannot get along with can be frustrating and even ruin your experience. By selecting a private tour, you get the perfect chance to be with the people you really want to hang out with, your significant other, your family, your friends, or you can even get reacquainted with yourself and what really interests you. A private tour can be a gift, just for you.

3. Exclusive access to local expertise

What you do not know, you may never learn, and even extensive research beforehand may not get you all the answers. Having an experienced, local guide all to yourself means you understand much better the culture of the place you visit, feel its real beauty, and get to explore the hidden gems with people who have lived there all their lives. This gives you a truly authentic experience and insight into interesting details you might not have discovered otherwise. In other words, you dive deeper than the general tourist and do not just skim the surface.

4. Customization can be a mind opener

When you ask a travel agency or a tour company for a customized experience, usually the team that designs personalized tours can literally pull a lot of rabbits out of their hats; in some cases, things that you could have never even imagined. They have a ton of incredible suggestions that can create magic and help you build your dream experience and consequently, your dream holiday. This is why private tours really stand out.

5. Special assistance

Of course, private tours are essential for people who have special needs in terms of extra assistance. Small children, guests with medical concerns or mobility issues, and older relatives or friends. In this respect, private, personalized tours can really untie your hands, and make a trip that would otherwise seem climbing Mount Everest, very feasible and even easy.

6. Perfecting your experience comes first

Let's admit it: Creating your own, unique tour makes you feel special, and who doesn't want that in their vacation. A private, tailor-made experience designed by an expert will provide you with that VIP sparkle missing from your everyday life.

Though guests find our group tours very satisfying and safe, as evidenced by our top ratings, a private tour is always a great way to create memorable moments with your loved ones. In addition to our scheduled tours, Athens Walking Tours also offers ready-made private tours, from where you can pick the most suitable option. If you are interested in booking your own, fully customized, private experience, where you can choose destinations, activities, dates, and hours, please contact our private tours operations team. Service is individualized, and the focus is on your own needs and preferences. Returning to travel after a long time, with a completely personalized experience can make the transition easier, safer, and definitely much more pleasurable.