Acropolis

The basics

The complex is one of the most visited attractions in Greece. Acropolis tours include most Athens city sightseeing outings and often visit the New Acropolis Museum and other ancient sites, such as Epidaurus, Cape Sounion, and the Temple of Poseidon. The best way to explore the ruins is on a guided city walking tour, taking in highlights including the Parthenon, Propylaea, the Temple of Athena Nike, and Erechtheion.

Things to know before you go

• Choose between a standard entrance ticket and a multi-attraction ticket that includes access to other sites.

• Admission lines can take up to two hours in peak summer, so it's best to book ahead.

• The site provides little shade—bringing sunscreen, a hat, and water during summer is highly recommended.

• Wear comfortable shoes suitable for walking over uneven ground.

• Most areas of the archaeological site are wheelchair-accessible. Find an elevator on the northwest side.

• Skip the line tickets are essential during the high season.

How to get there

It's impossible to miss the Acropolis. You can see it from just about anywhere in Athens, and the easiest way to get there is on foot. The closest metro stations are Thesion, Monastiraki, and Acropolis. Ticket booths are on the north and south side of the foot of Acropolis Hill. From there it's a short walk uphill to the archaeological site.

When to get there

The site is open year-round, but it can get extremely busy and hot in the summer months. Arrive just before opening or before closing to avoid crowds. Travelers on a budget might prefer to visit in winter, when ticket prices are up to 50 percent lower.

Where to find the best views of the Acropolis

Find prime views of the Parthenon at the top of Mars Hill. You can also see the entire archaeological site from Filopappos Hill, just southwest of the Acropolis. Elsewhere, gaze over the Acropolis and the surrounding city from Mt. Lycabettus (Lykavittos), the highest point in Athens. The cliff top ruins are atmospheric at night—choose a rooftop bar or restaurant in central Athens for great after-dark views.

Should I buy Acropolis tickets in advance?

Yes, buy admission tickets to the Acropolis in advance to avoid waiting in long lines that can last hours at peak times. There’s also very little shade at the top. If you’re going as part of a guided tour, most include either standard or skip-the-line admission.

Can you do the Acropolis in one day?

Yes, you can easily explore the Acropolis in one day. In fact, most tours of the Acropolis take around one hour. But it’s wise to budget two hours to account for the time you might spend waiting in line or walking uphill to the main site.

What do I need to know before going to the Acropolis?

It’s wise to wear comfortable shoes and take plenty of sun protection, as there’s very little shade at the top. You should also take lots of water, but note that you won’t be able to bring food inside.

What time should I go to the Acropolis?

You should go to the Acropolis first thing in the morning, as soon as it opens. Visiting at this time means cooler temperatures and fewer crowds, and the light is often great for photography. It’s also a good idea to avoid visiting during the scorching summer months of July and August.

What does an Acropolis ticket include?

A standard Acropolis ticket includes admission to the Acropolis, the Odeon of Herodes Atticus, and Theater of Dionysus. 5-day passes grant one-time access to the Ancient and Roman Agoras, Hadrian’s Library, Olympieion, Kerameikos, and Aristotle’s School (Lykeion).

What are the Acropolis opening hours?

The Acropolis is open daily from early morning to mid-evening from April to October, and from early morning to early evening from November to March. It’s closed on major public holidays. Last entry is half an hour before it closes.

Ways to explore

The Acropolis complex is one of the most visited attractions in Greece. Athens tours nearly always combine the landmark with the New Acropolis Museum and other ancient sites, such as Epidaurus, Cape Sounion, and the Temple of Poseidon. The best way to explore the ruins is on a guided city walking tour, taking in highlights including the Parthenon, Propylaea, the Temple of Athena Nike, and Erechtheion. Skip-the-line tickets are essential during the high season, when lines can sometimes last for hours.

Accessibility

Most areas of the archaeological site are wheelchair-accessible. Find an elevator on the northwest side.

Age limits

None

What to pack

There’s very little shade at the Acropolis, so bring a hat, sunglasses, and sunscreen.

What to wear

Comfortable shoes suitable for walking over uneven ground

Not allowed

Climbing on the monuments, smoking, pets

Amenities

Visitor center, restrooms, café, souvenir shops

Address

It’s impossible to miss the Acropolis. You can see it from just about anywhere in Athens, and the easiest way to get there is on foot. Ticket booths are on the north and south sides of the foot of Acropolis Hill. From there, it’s a short walk uphill to the archaeological site.

Driving

From central Athens, head south on Vasilissis Amalias Avenue (the main street in front of the Greek Parliament). Continue driving on this avenue, which leads directly towards Dionysiou Areopagitou Street—the main road to the Acropolis. Turn onto Dionysiou Areopagitou Street and follow this street directly to the entrance of the Acropolis. This street runs around the base of the Acropolis hill and is close to the entrance.

Public transportation

The closest metro stations are Thesion, Monastiraki, and Acropolis, but the easiest route is to take Metro Line 1 to Monastiraki, which is a 10-minute walk from the Acropolis. Buses 230 and 550 also stop nearby.

Best times to visit

The midday sun can be sweltering in Athens, so try to arrive first thing in the morning or late afternoon.

Best days to visit

Weekdays typically see fewer crowds.

Best months to visit

Spring and fall see pleasant temperatures ideal for exploring the largely outdoor attractions.

Special events

The Full Moon Festival in August is celebrated throughout Greece, and it’s a magical excuse to take nighttime tours of the Acropolis.