Everything You Need to Know About Visiting Acropolis in Athens
The Acropolis of Athens, which dates as far back as the 5th century BC, draws millions of visitors every year. This ancient citadel that consists of several important buildings, such as the Parthenon and the Temple of Athena Nike, is soaked in history. During a visit to this iconic landmark, one can still see the age-old statues, beautiful ionic columns, and olden temples of worship. On this page, you will find all the necessary information that you would need if you’re planning a visit to the Acropolis.
How to Visit the Acropolis?
To visit the Acropolis you will have to purchase a ticket. Choose between a combo ticket, skip-the-line entry, or a guided tour. While you can purchase your tickets on-site, if you don't wish to waste your time standing in long queues, it is best to purchase your tickets online.
Make sure to check Acropolis timings before you make your visit, as their closing times change between winter and summer. Located in the heart of the city, the Acropolis is well-connected and you can reach it by metro, bus or even cab. If you hope to enjoy a more scenic route, then hike your way to the Acropolis. The Acropolis has two entrances. To avoid the long lines, enter through the side entrance at the southeast side of the Acropolis.
Athens Acropolis Opening Hours
General Timings: Athens Acropolis is open daily from 8 AM to 8 PM, with the last entry being at 7:30 PM during the summer months (April to October). During the winter months (November to March), the sites close by 5 PM, with the last entry at 4:30 PM.
Closed: The Athens Acropolis remains closed on 1 January, 25 March, 1 May, Easter Sunday, 25 and 26 December.
How Much Time to Allocate for Your Visit?
Acropolis Hill is a large site with a lot of interesting things to discover. Visitors can expect to spend between 2 to 3 hours at the Acropolis.
More About the Acropolis Opening HoursBest Time To Visit Athens Acropolis
Summer in Athens (mid-June to mid-September) is the high season. If you visit Athens during this time you will be able to catch some sun and enjoy the nightlife. However, traveling during peak season means that the city will be packed with tourists, which will lead to higher accommodation and airfare rates. If you are hoping for pleasant weather and quiet streets, visit during April to mid-June or mid-September through October. If you are on a tight budget, visit between November to March, when Athens is experiencing autumn and winter.
When is the Best Time to Visit Acropolis to Avoid the Crowds?
If you wish to avoid large crowds, especially during the peak season (April to October), the best time to visit the Athens Acropolis would be during the early morning hours or late evenings. In fact, even during peak season, it is best to go during the early hours so you can escape the heat. You’ll find the Acropolis to be busiest during the afternoons, between 11 AM to 1 PM.
You can also try to catch the sunset from the Acropolis if you schedule your visit for the late afternoons.
Athens Acropolis Location
Address: Athens 105 58, Greece
The Acropolis is located on a limestone hill 150 m (490 ft) above sea level in the city of Athens. The citadel stretches over a surface area of about 3 hectares.
Nearest Landmark: The Pnyx (650 m)
Get Directions to the AcropolisHow to Reach the Acropolis in Athens
By Metro
- Take the red line, #M2. The closest subway station is Acropoli; a 10-minute walk will get you to the Acropolis.
- You can also take the blue line #M3, to Monastiraki, a 12-minute walk away.
- You can also take the green line to Thissio, which is 14 minutes away.
By Bus
- Take bus 230 to Akropolē. From here, the Acropolis of Athens is an 8-minute walk.
- You can also take bus numbers 035 (Monastiraki stop, 14 mins away) or 106 (Makryianni, 10 mins away).
- From the airport, take Bus X95 to Syntagma station, about 1.5 km from the Acropolis.
How to Enter the Acropolis?
There are two main entrances to the Acropolis:
1. The main entrance: This is located at the western end of the Acropolis. This is where the ticket office is located. This entrance tends to be busy; you may have to wait for one to two hours during the peak season to be able to enter.
2. Smaller ticket office: Located at the southeastern corner of the Acropolis, on Dionysiou Areopagitou near the Acropolis Museum. If you are hoping to avoid the long lines, use this entrance to the Acropolis.
More About the Acropolis EntrancesKnow Before You Visit Acropolis
- There is an elevator, located about 350 meters from the main entrance, available for people in wheelchairs and those with diminished abilities. Users of the elevator should contact in advance.
- Visitors with diminished abilities can use the Acropolis golf carts.
- The Acropolis is partially accessible for people with disabilities. You can see the accessible passage here.
- Museum Shop
- Cafe
- Restrooms
- Elevator
- Acropolis Museum: A trip to Acropolis and the Acropolis Museum go hand-in-hand. This archaeological museum houses the findings from the Acropolis of Athens.
- National Archaeological Museum: History buffs must head to The National Archaeological Museum, which houses some of the most important Greek artifacts.
- Filopappou Hill: Also known as the Hill of the Muses, a climb up the Filopappou Hill will allow you to experience some of the most beautiful panoramic views of ancient Athens.
How to Skip the Lines at Athens Acropolis
1. Purchase skip-the-line tickets
Being one of the most popular attractions in Athens, the Acropolis invites a large number of visitors every day. However, despite the long queues, especially during the peak seasons, you can stay one step ahead with the help of skip the line access.
2. Book your tickets in advance
It is always best to be prepared and book your tickets in advance for the date of your choice. The e-ticket will be sent to you via email, which can be displayed before entering the attraction. This way, you won't have to stand in the long lines outside the ticket counter, helping you save some time.
3. Experience more through combo tickets
If you’re new or want to learn more about the city, this experience is for you. Your journey will begin by being picked up from the designated pick-up point and covering some of the most captivating sights that the city has to offer.
4. Avoid the main entrance
The main entrance sees a huge crowd, and you might have to wait a few hours before you get to enter the attraction. Instead, head towards the entrance at the southeastern corner of the Acropolis. This is the entrance where most visitors with skip-the-line tickets enter the Acropolis.
Things to See at Athens Acropolis
Propylaea
The Propylaea was the monumental gateway to the Acropolis that was built as part of Pericles attempt to rebuild the Acropolis after the Persian Wars.
The Temple of Athena Nike
Dedicated to the goddesses Nike, the goddess of victory, citizens used to worship at this temple for emerging successful in battles.
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Erechtheion
The Erechtheion is a temple dedicated to Athena and Poseidon. Its asymmetrical structure sets it apart from the other Greek temples.
Pandroseion
Dedicated to Pandrous, one of the daughters of Cecrops I, the first king of Attica, the Pandroseion is located next to Erechtheion and the old Temple of Athena.
Old Temple of Athena
This temple is dedicated to Athena, the daughter of Zeus and the patron deity of Athens. The Greeks refer to this temple as "Archaios Naos".
The Parthenon
One of the most important temples within the Acropolis, the Parthenon is considered to be one of the most important surviving structures of Classical Greece.
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Theatre of Dionysus
This ancient Greek theatre is considered to be the birthplace of Greek drama. Established in the late 6th century, the theater began to decline in the Byzantine era. It has been reconstructed many times since then.
Odeon of Herodes Atticus
Built by Herodes Atticus in memory of his wife, Aspasia Regilla, the structure is a theatre. It is still used for music concerts and performances.
Visitor Tips & Guidelines
- Since there’s plenty of walking involved, it is recommended that guests wear comfortable, casual clothing.
- Wear shoes that have a firm grip sole to avoid slipping on uneven terrain and slippery surfaces.
- Remember to carry sunblock and jackets or hats since there’s no shade from the sun at the Acropolis.
- Photography is permitted at the Acropolis. However, visitors cannot use drones over archaeological sites.
All Your Questions About Visiting Acropolis, Athens
A. Yes. The Athens Acropolis is now open to visitors. Guests can prebook their Athens Acropolis tickets online.
A. The Athens Acropolis is open from 8:00 AM to sunset, every day of the week. The closing time varies from summer to winter.
A. Ideally, it’s best to visit during the early hours of the day; the Acropolis tends to get crowded between 11 AM to 2 PM. The best time of year to visit the Acropolis is between October to April; try to avoid the summer months as the heat is quite harsh and the Acropolis gets quite crowded.
A. The best way to get to the Acropolis is to take the metro to the Acropoli station. From here, you can walk for 10 minutes to the site.
A. Acropolis entrances lie at the West end and the southeast end. The West entrance is the primary one and is generally quite crowded compared to the one on the southeast.
A. Yes. Most parts of the Acropolis have been made wheelchair accessible, including the addition of wheelchair-friendly elevators.
A. Plan your visit to the Acropolis around mid-April to June or mid-September to October for lesser crowds. It is best to go to the Acropolis during the early hours or late afternoons.
A. While there is no dress code, opt for some comfortable attire as there will be a lot of walking involved. It goes without saying, skip those heels.
A. To fully explore Acropolis, you should set aside at least 2 to 3 hours.
A. Acropolis ticket prices start at €12. You can buy your Athens Acropolis tickets here.
