If you’re planning to visit just one museum in Athens, it should undoubtedly be the Acropolis Museum.
Established in 2009, the Acropolis Museum is situated directly opposite the ancient citadel of the Acropolis of Athens, on the pedestrian street of Dionysiou Aeropagitou.
It houses unique masterpieces, archaeological findings, and sculptures from the Athenian Acropolis.
I strongly recommend first visiting the Acropolis of Athens and the Parthenon, then heading to the museum for an exciting historical journey through ancient Athens.
It’s a journey that spans from the Mycenaean period (1600 BC) to classical antiquity (500 BC), including the golden age of Pericles (480-404 BC), and extending to the Roman years (86 BC – 267 AD).
Acropolis Museum’s Most Important Exhibits
On the ground floor, you can view archaeological findings from the slopes of the Acropolis hill, including artifacts from small and large sanctuaries and objects from private residences.
On the first floor, the Acropolis of the archaic era (700 – 480 BC) comes to life with its impressive temples and numerous sculptures.
As you ascend the sloping floor along a circular path, it feels as though you are climbing the hill of the Acropolis itself, with the Parthenon soon revealed.
Upon entering the second floor, you find yourself in the imposing Parthenon Hall, home to the Parthenon frieze, the columns, and the Caryatids.
Here, you can admire the original marble sculptures alongside plaster copies of those housed in the British Museum or other museums abroad, awaiting their return to Greece.
The glass room on this floor provides a perfect view of the Holy Rock of the Acropolis and the Parthenon — it’s a breathtaking moment.
Tickets and Tours
Tickets for the Acropolis Museum can be purchased directly from its official website.
You can choose the date and time of entry, and stay as long as you wish.
Opening Hours:
- Winter Season (1 November – 31 March): Monday – Thursday 9 am – 5 pm / Last entry: 4:30 pm. Friday 9 am – 10 pm / Last entry: 9:30 pm. Saturday & Sunday 9 am – 8 pm / Last entry: 7:30 pm.
- Summer Season (1 April – 31 October): Monday 9 am – 5 pm / Last entry: 4:30 pm. Tuesday – Sunday 9 am – 8 pm / Last entry: 7:30 pm. Friday 9 am – 10 pm / Last entry: 9:30 pm.
There are also free admission days: 6 March (Melina Mercouri Day), 25 March (National holiday), 18 May (International Day of Museums), and 28 October (National holiday).
However, I strongly recommend getting a guided tour for a more enlightening experience, as the licensed guide will help you understand the thousands of years of Greek history and why what surrounds you is globally unique.
I recommend this Acropolis tour, which includes visits to both the Acropolis and the Acropolis Museum.
How to Get to the Acropolis Museum
The Acropolis Museum is located in the heart of Athens.
The easiest way to get there is by the Akropoli metro station on the red metro line.
Alternatively, the Makrigianni bus stop is nearby, serviced by more than 25 bus routes.
However, using the metro or Uber in Athens is recommended, as buses can be unreliable.
Bonus: Acropolis Museum Cafe & Restaurant
Before you leave, I suggest visiting the Cafe & Restaurant on the second floor of the Acropolis Museum.
It offers a unique view of the Acropolis and serves decent food and coffee at reasonable prices.
Take an hour, grab a cup of coffee, and soak in the history of the 2,500-year-old citadel before you.
Your Personal Athens Itinerary
I hope you enjoyed this guide to the Acropolis Museum.
For those with a love for museums, be sure to check out my guide on the “5 Must-See Museums in Athens“.
And if you are curious about why birds are not… flying over the Acropolis, don’t miss the Acropolis myths and legends.
Lastly, if you want a detailed plan for your Athens trip, don’t miss out on my step-by-step itineraries.
They include the best places in town and are carefully designed depending on the number of days at your disposal: Athens in 1 day, Athens in 2 days, Athens in 3 days, Athens in 4 days, or hidden gems in Athens if you plan to stay even longer.
Make Your Trip Easier
Airport Transfer
If you want to get to and from Athens Airport with peace of mind, I recommend pre-booking your taxi with Welcome Pickups. Their flat rate is a few euros more expensive than random taxis, but it is totally worth it. They use local, English-speaking drivers, who will wait for you even if your flight is delayed and introduce you to the city during your ride.
Accommodation
I always book my accommodation with a reliable service like Booking.com. They offer a price guarantee and 24/7 support in case of any problems with your hotel. Always make sure you read reviews from other guests before booking.
Activities
From day trips to Greek islands to Acropolis Guided Tours, GetYourGuide will help you find some unique ideas for your trip.
Car Rental
If you decide to rent a car while in Athens, check Rentalcars. It compares the most reliable companies and returns the best prices with free cancellation.
Free Athens Tours
If you have limited time or want a local guide to introduce you to the city, check GuruWalk. They offer free tours, and at the end, you give them the amount you think is fair.
Travel Insurance
Travel insurance will protect you if you get sick or injured while abroad, or if you lose your luggage or your flight is delayed. On my trips, I use SafetyWing as it’s affordable and has a simple claims process.
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