English
English
- Acropolis
- Acropolis Musuem
- South Slope of the Acropolis of Athens
- Library of Hadrian
- Temple of Athena Nike
- Parthenon
- Roman Agora
- Combos
- Aristotle's Lyceum
Athens Acropolis Tours | Discover this UNESCO World Heritage site with a expert guide
.jpg?auto=format&w=705.6&h=360&q=90&fit=fit)
Itinerary
TOTAL DURATION3 hours 30 minutes
START POINT
Athens
1
Acropolis Parthenon
Tickets included
The Acropolis Parthenon, one of the most iconic landmarks of ancient Greece, stands majestically atop the Acropolis Hill in Athens. This ancient temple, dedicated to the goddess Athena, showcases classical Greek architecture and artistry at its finest. Visitors can marvel at its grand columns and intricate sculptures while learning about its rich history and cultural significance.
3.7 km
15 minutes
2
Theater of Dionysus
Tickets included
The Theater of Dionysus, located at the foot of the Acropolis in Athens, is one of the oldest and most significant theatres in the world. Built in the 5th century BC, it was the heart of ancient Greek theatre, hosting performances of classic tragedies and comedies in honor of the god Dionysus. This historical site offers a glimpse into the origins of Western drama, where playwrights like Sophocles and Euripides showcased their masterpieces.
3.5 km
15 minutes
3
Herod Atticus Odeon
Tickets included
The Herod Atticus Odeon, located at the base of the Acropolis in Athens, is a stunning ancient theatre that dates back to the 2nd century AD. It was built by Herodes Atticus in memory of his wife and is renowned for its impressive Roman architecture, including a partially preserved stone façade. Today, the Odeon is still used for performances, hosting concerts, operas, and theatrical events during the Athens Festival.
0.01 km
2 minutes
4
Erechtheion
Tickets included
The Erechtheion, an ancient temple on the Acropolis of Athens, is renowned for its unique asymmetrical design, built to accommodate the uneven terrain. It is dedicated to Athena and Poseidon, and features the famous Porch of the Caryatids, where six elegantly draped female figures replace traditional columns. Visitors can admire its intricate architecture and explore the rich historical and mythological significance of this iconic site.
3 km
30 minutes
5
Temple of Athena Nike
Tickets included
The Temple of Athena Nike, located on the Acropolis of Athens, is a small but exquisite Ionic temple dedicated to the goddesses Athena and Nike. Built around 427 BC, it offers stunning views of the Athenian Agora and the surrounding areas. The temple is famous for its elegant architecture and well-preserved frieze, which depicts scenes of historical battles.
0.01 km
2 minutes
6
Propylaea
Tickets included
The Propylaea is the grand gateway to the Acropolis of Athens, designed by the architect Mnesicles in the 5th century BC. It consists of a majestic, multi-columned structure with a central hall and two wings, providing a monumental entrance to the sacred hill. The Propylaea's impressive architecture and strategic position offer stunning views of the surrounding city and the Acropolis.
0.75 km
4 minutes
7
Acropolis Museum
Tickets included (based on selection)
The Acropolis Museum in Athens showcases a vast collection of artifacts from the Acropolis archaeological site, offering a deeper understanding of ancient Greek culture. Highlights include sculptures from the Parthenon, including the famous Parthenon Marbles, and the intricate frieze from the Temple of Athena Nike. The museum’s glass floors also reveal ongoing excavations beneath, providing a unique glimpse into the history beneath the surface.
7.1 km
33 minutes
8
Old Town
Tickets included (based on selection)
The Acropolis Athens Old Town, known as Plaka, is a charming neighborhood at the foot of the Acropolis, filled with narrow cobblestone streets and neoclassical architecture. It offers a blend of history and vibrant local life, with traditional Greek tavernas, cafes, and shops lining the streets. Visitors can explore ancient ruins, including the Roman Agora and Hadrian's Library, while enjoying the scenic views of the Acropolis hill.
9
END POINT
Athens
- The Acropolis of Athens and its monuments represent the classical civilization bequeathed by Greek Antiquity to the world!
- On this guided walking tour, you'll get a sense of this historic city as your licensed English-speaking archeologist guide shares intriguing intel about each highlight.
- Walk past an astounding collection of sculptures that represent over 2,500 years' worth of history, and stand at the Parthenon, the most important temple of the Acropolis.
- Gasp at the world's first theatre, the Theater of Dionysus, the Healing Temple of Asclepius, the Temple of Athena Nike, the gateway to the Propylaeum, and more.
- Upgrade to a private guided tour and get a chance to visit Old Town, and a completely curated experience.
- The Acropolis of Athens and its monuments represent the classical civilization bequeathed by Greek Antiquity to the world!
- On this guided walking tour, you'll get a sense of this historic city as your licensed English-speaking archeologist guide shares intriguing intel about each highlight.
- Walk past an astounding collection of sculptures that represent over 2,500 years' worth of history, and stand at the Parthenon, the most important temple of the Acropolis.
- Gasp at the world's first theatre, the Theater of Dionysus, the Healing Temple of Asclepius, the Temple of Athena Nike, the gateway to the Propylaeum, and more.
- Upgrade to a private guided tour and get a chance to visit Old Town, and a completely curated experience.
Inclusions
- Guided tour of the Acropolis Parthenon
- 2-hour small-group tour
- English, Spanish, French, or German-speaking guide (based on option selected)
- 3.5-hour private Acropolis guided tour (based on option selected)
Attractions covered:
- Acropolis Parthenon
- Theater of Dionysus
- Herod Atticus Odeon
- Erechtheion
- Temple of Athena Nike
- Propylaea
- Acropolis Museum (based on option selected)
- Old Town (on private tour)
Exclusions
- Acropolis tickets (on private tour)
- Tip: Visit post 1pm for the best chance of minimal or no waiting time at the security check.
- Please Note: Your ticket allows you to avoid the 'ticket' line but not the security lines.
- This experience is not accessible by wheelchair and pram/strollers.
- Keep in mind, that large bags, and luggage, are not allowed on this experience.
- Due to venue restrictions, pets cannot tag along for this experience.
- Infants must sit on laps. An adult must accompany children.
- Please opt for a baby pouch for convenience.
- Please note: On days when the entrance to the Acropolis is free, the entrance ticket cost is already deducted from the tour price. These free admission days include:
- March 6th (in honor of Melina Mercouri)
- April 18th (International Day for Monuments)
- May 18th (International Museum Day)
- The last weekend of September (European Heritage Days)
- October 28th
- The first Sunday of each month, from November 1st to March 31st annually
- You can cancel these tickets up to 24 hours before the experience begins and get a full refund.
Combo (Save 5%): Acropolis & Parthenon + Acropolis Museum Tickets with Audio Guide
from €44.90
€42.65
5% off
- Maximize your Athens experience and savings with this combo that includes entry to the ancient Acropolis, Parthenon, and the modern Acropolis Museum.
- Explore Athens' storied past with a multilingual audio guide in the Acropolis, an ancient citadel featuring iconic structures like the Propylaea and the Parthenon.
- Stroll across the halls of Athena Nike and the Erechtheion temples and visit the Odeon of Herodes Atticus, a large amphitheater built in AD 161.
- Avoid the lines at the Acropolis Museum and explore 4 galleries filled with Greek artifacts and sculptures such as the coffered ceiling of the Propylaea.
- Explore the museum's exhibit; the excavation site of an ancient neighborhood dating back to 3000 BC.
- Maximize your Athens experience and savings with this combo that includes entry to the ancient Acropolis, Parthenon, and the modern Acropolis Museum.
- Explore Athens' storied past with a multilingual audio guide in the Acropolis, an ancient citadel featuring iconic structures like the Propylaea and the Parthenon.
- Stroll across the halls of Athena Nike and the Erechtheion temples and visit the Odeon of Herodes Atticus, a large amphitheater built in AD 161.
- Avoid the lines at the Acropolis Museum and explore 4 galleries filled with Greek artifacts and sculptures such as the coffered ceiling of the Propylaea.
- Explore the museum's exhibit; the excavation site of an ancient neighborhood dating back to 3000 BC.
Inclusions
Acropolis & Parthenon
- Entry to Acropolis
- Entry to Parthenon
- Acropolis audio guide created by historians in English, French, German, Spanish & Italian
Acropolis Museum
- Skip-the-line entry to Acropolis Museum
- Entry to the underground excavation of an ancient neighborhood city
Acropolis & Parthenon
- Tip: Don't miss the Erechtheion, a temple dedicated to Athena and Poseidon. The Porch of the Maidens with its six draped female figures as supporting columns is a sight to see.
- Infants aged 0-5 and EU citizens under 25 receive free admission with valid ID directly from the ticket booth, while non-EU citizens under 25 receive reduced-price entry from April to October with valid ID.
- This experience is accessible by wheelchair and pram/strollers with the availability of additional routes and facilities.
- The audio tours are not compatible with Windows Phones, iPhone 5/5C or older, iPod Touch 5th generation or older, iPad 4th generation or older, iPad Mini 1st generation.
- The app and audio guides require around 200-250 MB of space on your device.
- Due to Greek Orthodox Good Friday observances, archaeological sites will have adjusted opening hours. Specifically, on Good Friday (May 3, 2024), sites will be open from noon until 6pm. Orthodox Holy Saturday (May 4, 2024) hours will be from 8am to 3pm.
- The Acropolis Museum offers free admission on March 6 (Melina Mercouri Day), March 25 (National Holiday), May 18 (International Day of Museums), and October 28 (National Holiday).
- From April to October, children under the age of 5 years and EU citizens under the age of 25 years will receive free admission with valid ID directly from the ticket booth, while non-EU citizens under the age of 25 years will receive reduced-price entry with valid ID.
Acropolis Museum
- Tip: Make sure to view the historic Silver Cup presented to Marathon Winner Spyros Louis at the inaugural Modern Olympic Games in 1896.
- Keep in mind large baggage is not allowed on this experience. Pack wisely!
- Due to venue restrictions, pets cannot tag along for this experience.
- The tour is not wheelchair accessible due to uneven ground.
- The museum will stay open until midnight on the full-moon day of August and European Museum Day.
Enter the Acropolis Museum anytime within operating hours with this ticket. - All packages and backpacks must be deposited in the cloakroom on the ground floor of the museum.
- These tickets can't be cancelled or rescheduled.
Combo (Save 10%): Acropolis & Parthenon Tickets + 2-Day Athens Hop-On Hop-Off Bus Tour
from €27.90
€25.11
10% off
- Unleash your inner explorer with this money-saving combo offering a 2-day hop-on hop-off tour and tickets to the iconic Acropolis and Parthenon.
- Step into a history book, but with scenic views at the citadel of Acropolis, home to the iconic Parthenon, a former temple with your Acropolis tickets.
- Get front-row seats to the drama of ancient Greece with access to the ancient Odeon of Herodes Atticus and the Theatre of Dionysus Eleuthereus.
- Access 4 different lines and 35 stops and explore famous spots like the Acropolis Museum, Piraeus, and more with your HOHO pass.
- For cruise passengers: The HOHO conveniently departs from the Port to all the top attractions in Athens.
- Can't wait to post about the scenic routes the bus takes you along? Then, make use of that free Wi-Fi onboard.
- Unleash your inner explorer with this money-saving combo offering a 2-day hop-on hop-off tour and tickets to the iconic Acropolis and Parthenon.
- Step into a history book, but with scenic views at the citadel of Acropolis, home to the iconic Parthenon, a former temple with your Acropolis tickets.
- Get front-row seats to the drama of ancient Greece with access to the ancient Odeon of Herodes Atticus and the Theatre of Dionysus Eleuthereus.
- Access 4 different lines and 35 stops and explore famous spots like the Acropolis Museum, Piraeus, and more with your HOHO pass.
- For cruise passengers: The HOHO conveniently departs from the Port to all the top attractions in Athens.
- Can't wait to post about the scenic routes the bus takes you along? Then, make use of that free Wi-Fi onboard.
Inclusions
Athens hop-on hop-off tour
- 2-day unlimited hop-on hop-off tour
- Access to Athens, Piraeus, Glyfada, and Vouliagmeni routes
- Audio guide in Spanish, Turkish, Chinese, Dutch, English, Finnish, French, German, Greek, Hebrew, Italian, Japanese, Arabic, Portuguese & Russian
- Free Wi-Fi onboard
- Free map of the city
- Complimentary headsets for audio guide
Acropolis & Parthenon
- Access to Acropolis site and Parthenon
- Access to Odeon of Herodes Atticus
- Access to Theatre of Dionysus Eleuthereus
Please click here for the detailed route maps and boarding points and here for timetable.
Orange Line: Athens
- First Bus: 8.30am from Syntagma Square, Old Parliament
- Last Bus: 7.30pm from Syntagma Square, Old Parliament
- Frequency: every 15mins
- Popular Stops: Acropolis Museum, Temple of the Olympian, Panathenaic Stadium
Blue Line: Piraeus
- First Bus: 9:30am from Acropolis
- Last Bus: 5:30pm from Acropolis
- Frequency: every 1.15 hour
- Popular Stops: Planetarium, Piraeus
Yellow Line: Glyfada
- First Bus: 10am from Acropolis
- Last Bus: 6:30pm from Acropolis
- Frequency: every 2 hours
- Popular Stops: Kosmas Beach, Glyfada Beach
Green Line: Vouliagmeni
- First Bus: 10.38am from Divani Apollon
- Last Bus: 5:18pm from Divani Apollon
- Frequency: every 2-3 hours
- Popular Stops: Astir Beach, Kavouri Beach
You can join a tour at any stop and hop on and off for the duration of your ticket.
Athens hop-on hop-off tour
- Tip: If you wish to visit Acropolis during your HOHO tour, then use the Blue Line.
- The buses are wheelchair accessible.
- Your guide dogs are welcome on the buses.
Acropolis & Parthenon
- Tip: The Acropolis complex attracts tourists from all around the globe and gets crowded during peak hours. It's recommended that you visit early in the morning or later in the afternoon to avoid large crowds and enjoy a more tranquil visit.
- This experience is accessible by wheelchair and pram/strollers with the availability of additional routes and facilities.
- Your ticket allows you to avoid the 'ticket' line and not security lines.
- These tickets can't be cancelled or rescheduled.
AcropolisGuided Tours
Top things to do in Athens
Why take an Acropolis tour?
.jpg?auto=format&w=1222.3999999999999&h=687.6&q=90&fit=crop&ar=16%3A9&crop=faces)
- Expert insights: A guided Acropolis tour is your best bet if you wish to learn more about the landmark because it includes an expert guide who will share fascinating stories and little-known historical details.
- Fast track access: Many guided tours include a direct entry feature that gives you priority access to the attraction, helping you avoid waiting in long ticket queues for hours.
- In-depth understanding: The Acropolis guided tour offers an opportunity to learn more about the Acropolis of Athens and understand its historical, cultural, and architectural significance.
- Efficient navigation: The Acropolis of Athens site is vast, with many ancient structures. Booking a guided Acropolis tour is the best way to navigate and explore the site as your guide will ensure you do not miss any of the important landmarks.
- Easier access: With millions of tourists visiting the Acropolis of Athens annually, it is almost always crowded. Access gets easier and hassle-free with a guided Acropolis tour.
Which Acropolis tour is best for you?
Guided tours with fast track access
Suited for: Visitors who want to explore in-depth
Duration: 2 hours
Ticket price: from €51
- Guided tours with priority access allow you to bypass long ticket queues and directly enter the Acropolis of Athens, giving you more time to explore it.
- You will be accompanied by an expert English-speaking tour guide, who will enrich your experience by sharing interesting facts and details about the history and archaeology of the Acropolis of Athens.
- With these guided Acropolis tour tickets, you can visit all the important landmarks at the site and enjoy a comprehensive experience.
Recommended tour:
Combo guided tours
Suited for: Visitors who have limited time or are on a budget
Duration: 3 hours or more in total
Ticket price: from €36
- Combo guided tours allow you to comprehensively explore multiple landmarks in Athens with one ticket, making them a cost-effective option. You also get an in-depth tour of these attractions, ensuring you don't miss out on any significant landmarks.
- Depending on the combo guided tour you choose, you can visit other top attractions along with the Acropolis of Athens like the Acropolis Museum, the Ancient Agora, and the Temple of Poseidon at Cape Sunion.
Recommended tours:
Highlights covered on your Acropolis tour
Propylaea
Built between 437 BC and 432 BC, the Propylaea is the grand gateway to the Acropolis of Athens. It features six towering columns made of marble and limestone. It is an impressive and striking staircase that leads to the top of the Acropolis. Comprising two porticos on the east and west along with a central doorway in the front, the Propylaea is an architectural marvel with intricate details that add to the grandeur of the Acropolis.
Parthenon
One of the most popular sites at the Acropolis, the Parthenon was originally built as a temple dedicated to the Greek Goddess Athena Parthenos. An example of Doric architecture, the Parthenon features elaborate sculptures, mosaics, and ionic columns made of marble. It first served as a cathedral and was then converted into a mosque. The structure has undergone several restoration projects over the years with the aim to preserve this important symbol of Greek history.
Explore the Parthenon
The Theatre of Dionysus
One of the oldest architectural complexes on the southern slope of the Acropolis, the Theatre of Dionysus was built in the fourth century BC and is dedicated to Dionysus, the Greek God of wine and good times. The Greek tragedies of Euripides and Sophocles were performed at this sprawling theatre, which could accommodate almost 20,000 people making it the largest public space in the ancient city of Athens. It is believed that the government of Athens at the time also held several meetings at this iconic place.
Temple of Athena Nike
Constructed between 426 BC and 421 BC, the Temple of Athena Nike was the first ionic temple built at the Acropolis. Located right next to the Propylaea, the temple was built in honor of Greek goddesses Athena and Nike, the protectors of Athens. However, the Turks demolished it in 1686. The temple has, since then, undergone quite a few restorations. It was rebuilt in 1834 only to be pulled down and reconstructed again in 1998.
Explore the Temple of Athena Nike
Erechtheion
Another temple dedicated to Greek gods and goddesses, the Erechtheion was named after Erechtheus, the mythical king. This ionic structure was built between 421 BC and 406 BC and shares ground with the Old Temple of Athena and Pandroseion. Do not miss the Caryatids – six female statues that support the roof of the temple. Located on the northern side of the Acropolis, the Erechtheion is believed to be the mastermind of architect Mnesicles and is a must-see on your visit to the ancient citadel.
Odeon of Herodes Atticus
The Odeon of Herodes Atticus was built in 162 AD as a theatre that could accommodate about 5,000 people. Located on the southwest slope of the Acropolis, this theatre was built by politician Herodes Atticus in memory of his wife Aspasia Annia Regilla. This massive structure is made entirely of stone and is still used as a venue for concerts and cultural events in Athens.
Frequently asked questions about Acropolis tours
Can I book an Acropolis tour?
Yes, you can book your Acropolis tours online.
How much does an Acropolis tour cost?
Acropolis tours start at €13.
What are the different types of Acropolis tours?
Visitors can choose between guided tours with priority access to the Acropolis of Athens or combo tours, where you can explore one or more other landmarks in Athens along with the Acropolis. You can also avail of the optional audio guide, which is available in 5 languages.
What does an Acropolis tour cover?
A guided Acropolis tour typically includes access to all sections of the site that are open to the public, such as the Propylaea, the Parthenon, the Temple of Athena Nike, the Erechtheion, the Temple of Zeus, the Theater of Dionysus, and more.
In what languages are the Acropolis guided tours available?
The Acropolis guided tours are available in 5 languages – English, French, German, Spanish, and Italian.
How many people can go on an Acropolis guided tour?
It depends on the type of Acropolis tour you book. The small group guided tour can accommodate up to 10 people while other guided tours can take as many as 25 guests.
Is booking an Acropolis tour worth it?
Yes. Taking an Acropolis tour is worth it because it’s the best way to explore this iconic architectural marvel and learn all about its history.
Do Acropolis tours allow you to skip ahead of long ticketing lines?
Yes, some of the Acropolis guided tours include priority access to the archaeological site. With these tickets, you can get direct access to the security checkpoints, save time, and spend more time exploring the temples inside the site.
Can I cancel a booked Acropolis tour?
Depending on the experience you book, you can cancel a booked Acropolis tour up to 24 hours before the scheduled date and get a full refund.
How long does an Acropolis tour last?
Acropolis guided tours can be anywhere between 2 hours to 10 hours long, depending on the experience you choose.
