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Visiting Acropolis of Athens | Timings, Location & Tips

The Acropolis of Athens, which dates back to the 5th century BCE, draws millions of visitors every year. This ancient citadel consists of several important buildings such as the Parthenon and the Temple of Athena Nike, and is soaked in history. During a visit to this iconic landmark, one can still see the age-old statues, beautiful ionic columns, and ancient temples of worship. On this page, you will find all the necessary information that you would need if you’re visiting Acropolis of Athens.

Acropolis of Athens | Visitor information at a glance

• What are the Acropolis of Athens opening hours? The Athens Acropolis opening hours vary in different seasons depending on the daylight hours: 1st April to 15th September: 8 AM to 7.30 PM 16th to 30th September: 8 AM to 7 PM 1st to 15th October: 8 AM to 6.30 PM 16th to 31st October: 8 AM to 6 PM 1st November to 31st March: 8 AM to 5 PM
• Where is the Acropolis of Athens located? The Acropolis of Athens is located at Athens 105 58, Greece.
• How many entrances does the Acropolis of Athens have? The Acropolis of Athens has two entrances: the main entrance located at the western end, and the side entrance, also known as the Dionysus Theater entrance, located on the southeastern corner of the site.
• How many annual visitors does the Acropolis of Athens receive? Approximately 1 million people visit the Acropolis of Athens every year.

What are the Athens Acropolis opening hours?

General timings: The Acropolis of Athens is open daily, but its timings vary depending on the season. It is open from 8 AM to 7.30 PM from 1st April to 15th September; from 8 AM to 7 PM from 16th to 30th September; from 8 AM to 6.30 PM from 1st to 15th October; from 8 AM to 6 PM from 16th to 31st October; and from 8 AM to 5 PM from 1st November to 31st March.

Closed on: The Acropolis of Athens 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 many interesting buildings and structures to explore. Visitors can expect to spend around 2 to 3 hours at the Acropolis.

What is the best time to visit the Acropolis of Athens?

The summer months from mid-June to mid-September are the peak season in Athens. While there is plenty to explore and experience, the city sees high tourist numbers, leading to higher accommodation and airfare rates. The best months to visit are from April to mid-June or mid-September through October. These months see pleasant weather conditions and quiet streets with fewer tourists. If you are on a budget, visit during the winter months from November to March.

Visiting Acropolis – when is the best time to go to avoid the crowds?

The Acropolis of Athens is busiest during late mornings and afternoons, from 10 AM to 2 PM. If you wish to avoid large crowds, the best time to visit is early mornings or late evenings on weekdays. Visiting during the early morning hours allows you to escape the heat and explore the site without becoming too tired, as there is a fair amount of walking involved. If you visit in the late afternoon or early evening, you have the opportunity to catch the sunset from Acropolis Hill.

Where is the Acropolis of Athens located?

Address: Athens 105 58, Greece

Find On Map

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)

Getting to the Acropolis of Athens

By public transport

• By metro: Line M2 (red line) will get you to Acropoli, the closest metro station to the Acropolis of Athens. The monument is a 10-12 minute walk away. You can also take Line M3 (blue line) to Monastiraki or Line M1 (green line) to Thiseio.
• By bus: Buses 230, 035, 040, 550, and A2 will take you to the Acropolis of Athens. Akropolē is the closest bus stop to the landmark.
• By tram: The Acropolis is reachable via the T6 tram line. The nearest tram station is Leoforos Vouliagmenis.
• By trolleybus: You can reach the Acropolis via trolleybus 1, 5, and 15. The closest trolleybus stops are Makrygiannē and Gargaretta, each about half a kilometre away.
• By train: Train lines ⊓1A, ⊓3, & ⊓3B will get you to the Acropolis. The nearest train station is Akropoli.

By car or taxi

Visitors can reach the Acropolis of Athens by car or taxi. It is located about 34.3 km away from Athens International Airport, and it takes about 45 minutes to 1 hour to cover this distance, depending on traffic.

Parking facilities:

• Public car park: Located just a 4-minute walk away at Rovertou Galli 39, Athina 117 41.
• Rovertou Galli 7-11 Garage: Located at Athina 117 42, this parking facility is just half a kilometre away.
• Parking Kostas: Located at Vlachou Angelou 6, Athina 105 56, which is a 12-minute walk away.
• Metropark Athens: Located 15 minutes by foot away from the Acropolis.

Know before visiting Acropolis of Athens

• Purchase fast track tickets: The Acropolis receives hundreds of visitors every day. Fast track tickets help you skip ahead of long ticket queues and directly enter the attraction, a huge advantage, especially during the peak season.
• Book tickets online in advance: It is always best to buy tickets in advance for the date of your choice. Booking online also guarantees your entry to the landmark.
• Combo tickets for an extensive experience: Combo tickets are a great way to visit more than one experience and can cover some of the city’s most captivating sights under the same ticket.  
• Avoid the main entrance: There are usually long waiting lines at the main entrance, and you might have to wait up to two hours to enter. With fast track entry tickets, you can use the less crowded side entrance at the southeastern corner of the Acropolis, making your visit smooth and hassle-free.

There are two entrances to the Acropolis of Athens:

1. Main entrance: The main entrance is at the western end of the Acropolis. This is where the ticket office is located. This entrance tends to be busy; visitors may have to wait one to two hours during the peak season to be able to enter.

2. Side entrance: Also known as the Dionysus Theater entrance, the side entrance is located at the southeastern corner of the Acropolis, on Dionysiou Areopagitou near the Acropolis Museum. Small group tours and fast track ticket-holders can use this entrance. It is generally less crowded, allowing visitors to avoid long lines.

• Due to its uneven ground, the Acropolis of Athens archaeological site is partially accessible for wheelchair users and those with mobility issues.
• Wheelchair users and visitors with reduced mobility can use an elevator to reach the top of Acropolis Hill. The elevator is located about 350 meters from the main entrance. People who wish to use the elevator are recommended to inform the Acropolis office a day in advance.
• Visitors with reduced mobility or walking difficulties can also use the Acropolis golf carts to reach the top of the citadel.
• There are wheelchair-friendly routes on even ground laid out at the Acropolis site, which wheelchair users can use to navigate the attraction. However, certain buildings or structures might still be inaccessible.
• The site also has restrooms for wheelchair users and visitors with mobility issues. These are located at the main entrance.

• Audio guides

Tips and guidelines to keep in mind while visiting Acropolis of Athens:

• Since there is 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.
• Acropolis Museum Cafe and Restaurant: The Acropolis Museum’s cafe and restaurant offers visitors a spot to have a quick bite or a coffee while admiring the views of the Acropolis Hill and the archaeological site.
• Aspro Alogo (White Horse): Located in a bustling street of Athens, Aspro Alogo (White Horse) is a family-operated restaurant that serves authentic & traditional Greek food.
• Geros Tou Moria restaurant: Visitors can enjoy authentic Greek food at Geros Tou Moria , a cozy and rustic taverna located a 10-minute walk away from the Acropolis of Athens.
• Electra Roof Garden: Electra Roof Garden is a trendy rooftop eatery that offers Mediterranean fusion cuisine and expansive views of Acropolis Hill.
• Maiandros Restaurant: For traditional and hearty Mediterranean comfort food, head to Maiandros Restaurant , which is also known for its great service and breezy open-air seating.

Budget: Acropolis View Hotel , Central Hotel , Arethusa Hotel

Mid-range: Electra Palace Athens , The Athens Gate Hotel , O&B Athens Boutique Hotel

Luxury: Hotel Grande Bretagne, a Luxury Collection Hotel, Athens , InterContinental Athenaeum Athens, an IHG Hotel , Grand Hyatt Athens

• Acropolis Museum : A trip to the Acropolis of Athens goes hand-in-hand with a visit to the Acropolis Museum, which houses over 4,000 artifacts from the archaeological site. It provides deep insights into the significance of the Acropolis.
• Ancient Agora of Athens : The Ancient Agora of Athens, a historic gathering place, is considered the birthplace of democracy. It consists of several ancient structures and archaeological artifacts, providing a deep dive into Greek history and culture.
• National Archaeological Museum : Greece’s largest museum, the National Archaeological Museum traces the rich history, art, and culture of ancient Greek civilization through its extensive collection of artifacts from antiquity, such as sculptures, pottery, and jewelry.
• Temple of Olympian Zeus : The Temple of Olympian Zeus is a massive historic temple dedicated to Zeus. Immerse yourself in the splendour of Ancient Greece amidst its towering columns, classical architecture, and rich history.
• Filopappou Hill: Also known as the Hill of the Muses, Filopappou Hill, provides panoramic views of the Acropolis and the city. Visitors can also enjoy its lush greenery and tranquility, and see the Monument of Filopappos.

Book Acropolis of Athens tickets

Frequently asked questions about visiting acropolis of athens.

Yes, the Athens Acropolis is open for visitors. Guests can book their Athens Acropolis tickets online.

The Athens Acropolis opening hours change based on the season. In summer i.e. from 1st April to 15th September, it closes at 7.30 PM. From 16th to 30th September, it's open from 8 AM to 7 PM, from 1st to 15th October - 8 AM to 6.30 PM, from 16th to 31st October - 8 AM to 6 PM, and from 1st November to 31st March (winter months) - 8 AM to 5 PM.

Visiting Acropolis of Athens is best done from April to mid-June or mid-September to October, the off-peak season times. To avoid crowds, visit early mornings or late afternoons on weekdays.

The best way to reach the Acropolis of Athens is by metro. Line M2 (red line) will take you to Acropoli, the closest metro station, which is a 10-minute walk from the landmark. You can also take bus number 230, which will drop you off at Akropole bus stop, located 4 minutes away from the site. Get directions to the Acropolis of Athens .

There are two entrances to the Acropolis of Athens . The main entrance is located on the western side of the site. A smaller entrance, known as the Dionysus Theater entrance, is located at the southeastern corner.

Yes, the Acropolis of Athens is partially accessible by wheelchair. There is a wheelchair-friendly elevator to access Acropolis Hill and a wheelchair-friendly route through the site. However, due to the uneven ground, some parts may be difficult to navigate.

While there is no dress code, it is best to opt for comfortable clothing and footwear while visiting Acropolis, as there is a lot of walking to do. Except during the winters, it can get quite warm at the top of Acropolis Hill, and there is no shade from the sun.

The Acropolis is a large site with several interesting buildings and structures. It is best to set aside at least 2 to 3 hours to fully explore the site.

Acropolis Athens tickets start at €12. You can buy your Athens Acropolis tickets online.

Fast track entry at Acropolis

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Best Time to Visit the Acropolis and Why

The Acropolis is the jewel of Athens and one of the most famous landmarks in the world. Every year, millions of travelers make their way on the top of the hill to admire the great temple of goddess Athena, the Parthenon, and the other monuments that can be found there. Understandably, the archaeological site gets crowded and, during the peak season in Athens, you may wait in line for many hours in order to get your ticket and enter the site. The heat can also get overwhelming during some months of the summer, or even dangerous during a heatwave. So, what is the best time to visit the Acropolis? Read below our insider guide for the most appropriate times and why.

Visit the Acropolis early in the morning

Although most people are not early birds, one of the best times to visit the Acropolis is early in the morning . You should start your tour at  8 am . The reason is that close to 9 am the travelers from the cruises arrive by the thousands! The entrance of the site becomes overcrowded. Even if you have pre-purchased your tickets (which is strongly advised), you can still wait up to an hour (or sometimes even more) in line to enter scan the QR code and enter the gate. There is a different line for the ticket office and a different one for entering the site. It is strongly recommended to buy your tickets in advance to skip the line at the ticket office which moves slowly. However, even with a ticket, if you arrive at the wrong time, you may lose a lot of time in the other line. Note that there are no "skip-the-line" tickets and those who advertise them are trying to mislead you. The State has recently imposed time zones for the Acropolis, with maximum capacity per day and per hour. During peak season (April - October), the morning slots, especially the 9-10 am and 10-11 am usually get fully-booked as the date approaches, due to the high demand of those time zones. Make sure to pre-purchase your ticket well in advance. This can be done from the official ticketing website of the Ministry.

For most months, 8.00 am is a good time to enter the Acropolis and start your guided tour. You will beat the crowds during your ascend to the Hill and you will find them only during your descent, which will not affect your experience and enjoyment of the site.

Hint : Be careful where you pre-purchase your Acropolis ticket from. The official price is 20 EUR during peak season and 10 EUR during low season. Some websites sell this ticket much higher, to make a profit. It is better to let your local tour operator buy the tickets for you at the official price. Local tour operators, like us, have a unique partner code issued by the ministry and get access to many more tickets than those available online, at the same price.

The other reason to visit the Acropolis at 8 am is because during the summer months (September included), the Greek sun is really hot! The Acropolis is a hill that does not offer many shadow spots and you will be competing for those few spots with thousands more visitors. The earlier you start climbing up the hill the better.

Tip : Always wear a hat and sunscreen, and carry your bottle of cold water with you.

Visit the Acropolis late in the evening

If you have the option to visit the Acropolis later in the day, you should definitely grab the chance! One of the best times to visit Acropolis Hill is the last 2 hours before the closing of the site . This way, you will enjoy the sunset from the Hill, admiring the panoramic view of Athens and the sweet light of the sun caressing the white marble of the monuments. During peak season, the Acropolis site is closing at 8 pm. So the recommended starting time for your tour is 6 pm. There are no crowds during this time which makes it much more enjoyable. On top of that, it is much easier to find availability for a guided tour with an excellent local expert during this time.

All in all, the best time to visit the Acropolis during peak season is either early in the morning at 8 am or late in the evening at 6 pm .

Note : The above recommendations apply for the peak season in Athens (April-October). For the rest of the year, there are no huge crowds or considerable heat, so you can plan your visit without such restrictions.

Related Tour

Acropolis Mythology Private Tour

Finally, we recommend combining your Acropolis tour with an Acropolis Museum guided visit. This can be done in 3.5-4 hours and will give you a better perspective and insights about the importance of Acropolis Hill since most of the artifacts found on the Hill are now housed inside the museum. Contact us and we can arrange this guided experience for you, assigning one of our expert, storyteller guides.

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About the author: Our team at Greek TravelTellers consists of academics and lovers of Greek culture. Our vision is to convey our knowledge and Greek values through unique tours and experiences. Through our blog, we hope to bring Greek history and culture closer to you. Feel free to learn more about us .

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