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The Athens Acropolis entrances | A detailed guide on how to access the historical landmark
AcropolisEntrances
The Acropolis of Athens is an ancient citadel perched atop a rocky hill overlooking the city. Dedicated to the Greek goddess Athena, it hosts the ruins of several important architectural and historical structures from the classical era, including the Temple of Athena Nike and the Parthenon. Read on to learn about the different Acropolis entrances and how you can access this historical landmark.
Where is the Acropolis of Athens located?
The Acropolis is an ancient citadel constructed in the 5th century BCE. This UNESCO World Heritage site is located in Athens, the capital city of Greece.
Address: Athens 105 58, Greece.
Getting to the Acropolis of AthensAthens Acropolis entrances | Location and getting there
Acropolis Main Entrance
As the primary Acropolis entrance, this entrance is more popular among visitors to the archaeological site, which means it is usually quite congested.
Where is it? The main Acropolis entrance is located on Rovertou Galli, on the western side of the historical site.
How to reach: Take bus 230 to Akropolē bus stop, where you can get down and walk up to the main Acropolis entrance, about 3 to 4 minutes away.
Last entry: 7.30 PM during the summer months (April to October); 4.30 PM in the winter months (November to March).
Who can enter: All individual visitors and groups. Visitors who purchase a regular Acropolis ticket online can access the site through this entrance.
Average wait time: If you have booked your ticket online in advance, the average wait time at this entrance is around 20 to 30 minutes. Without prior online ticket bookings in the peak season, visitors may have to wait up to 2 hours at this entrance just to buy tickets.
Facilities: Main ticket office, disabled access, restrooms, gift shop, shop selling snacks, beverages, & refreshments, cloakroom for luggage storage.
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Side Entrance (Dionysus Theater entrance)
The Side Entrance (Dionysus Theater entrance) is lesser known than the main Acropolis entrance, and so is relatively less busy and crowded in comparison.
Where is it? The Side Entrance is located on Dionysiou Areopagitou, opposite the entrance to the Acropolis Museum. Visitors can access the site via the south slope of the Acropolis, and see all the structures here first, including the Dionysus Theater, before ascending the hill.
How to reach: Take metro line M2 (Red line) to Acropoli metro station. From here the Acropolis side entrance is just a 2-minute walk away.
Last entry: 7.30 PM during the summer months (April to October); 4.30 PM in the winter months (November to March).
Who can enter: Mainly skip-the-line ticket holders and small group tours.
Average wait time: For those who have purchased skip-the-line tickets online in advance, there is virtually no waiting time at this entrance. Queues to purchase tickets at the site are shorter here than at the main entrance.
Facilities: Ticket office, tourist information booth, restrooms, shop selling snacks, beverages, & refreshments.
Acropolis skip-the-line tickets
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Frequently Asked Questions about Athens Acropolis entrances
How many Acropolis entrances are there?
There are two Athens Acropolis entrances – the main entrance located on the western side of the Acropolis, on Rovertou Galli, and the side entrance or the Dionysus Theater entrance, located on the southern side of the site, on Dionysiou Areopagitou.
Which is the main Acropolis entrance?
The main Athens Acropolis entrance is located on the western side of the hill, on Rovertou Galli.
Until what time are the Acropolis entrances open?
The Athens Acropolis entrances are open from 8 AM to 7.30 PM in the summer (April to October), and from 8 AM to 4.30 PM in the winter (November to March).
What is the average wait time at the Acropolis entrances?
The average wait time at the main Acropolis entrance is 20 to 30 minutes if you have purchased your ticket online in advance. There is virtually no waiting time at the side entrance since it is meant mainly for skip-the-line ticket holders and small group tours.
Which Acropolis entrance do skip-the-line ticket holders use?
Visitors with skip-the-line tickets can use the side entrance to the Acropolis of Athens.
Which Acropolis entrance is used for guided tours?
Small tour group, including guided tours, access the Acropolis of Athens through the side entrance.
Which Acropolis entrance do wheelchair users and visitors with mobility issues use?
Wheelchair users and visitors with mobility issues can access the Acropolis of Athens using the specially designed elevator located near the main entrance.
Which Acropolis entrance do I use if I have already purchased tickets?
If you have purchased a regular Acropolis ticket online prior to your visit, you can use the main Acropolis entrance. If you have booked skip-the-line Acropolis tickets online in advance, you can enter the site through the side entrance.
Which Acropolis entrance should I use if I’m traveling with a group?
If you are part of a group, you can enter the Acropolis of Athens through the main entrance.
Which Athens Acropolis entrance should I choose if I’m visiting during peak hours?
If you’re visiting the Acropolis of Athens during peak hours, you should choose the side entrance located on the southern side of the hill.
How can I avoid waiting in line for a long time at the Acropolis of Athens?
To avoid waiting in line at the Acropolis of Athens, you can purchase skip-the-line tickets online prior to your visit. You can then access the landmark via the side entrance.
What time should I visit the Acropolis of Athens to avoid waiting in line?
The Acropolis of Athens is busiest between 10 AM and 2 PM. It is best to begin your visit at 8 AM, the opening time. Alternatively, you can also visit during the evening hours, after the daytime crowds have lessened.
