Acropolis, Parthenon and Ancient Agora Guided Walking Tour

What to bring

Acropolis

• Wear sturdy shoes, as the Acropolis paths are paved with marble that can get slippery in both dry and wet conditions.

• Take a hat, sunglasses, and sunscreen—the hill offers little shade and the sun can be intense.

• Bring only small bags, since large ones are not permitted; backpacks may be inspected at the entrance.

Ancient Agora

• Choose solid, comfortable footwear, as the ground is uneven and dusty during the summer.

• Carry a refillable water bottle; there’s a fountain near the Stoa of Attalos where you can top up, especially useful in hot weather.

• Bring sun protection like a hat and sunscreen, as shaded areas across the site are limited.

What’s not allowed

Acropolis

• Flash photography and tripods are not permitted inside the site, and professional filming or photo sessions require prior permission from the Ministry.

• Pets are not allowed, although certified service animals are welcome.

• Eating and picnicking are prohibited on the archaeological grounds.

• Smoking is strictly banned to protect the site and visitors.

• Do not touch, climb, or sit on the monuments to avoid damaging the structures.

Ancient Agora

• Flash photography and tripods are prohibited within the site, and professional filming requires prior approval. Staff may stop unauthorized tripod use.

• Drone use is not permitted, as archaeological zones are protected areas that require special approval for aerial filming.

• Pets are not allowed inside, though certified service animals are accepted.

• Do not collect stones, pottery, or any remains, as all antiquities are legally protected.

Accessibility

Acropolis

• The Acropolis has limited accessibility for visitors with mobility challenges. While there is an elevator near the South Slope entrance, its operation is managed entirely by the venue and may not always be available. Contact the site a day before your visit at +30 210 3214172 or +30 210 9238470 to confirm availability.

• Paved pathways and ramps have been installed in certain areas, though some ancient surfaces remain uneven and may be challenging for wheelchair users.

• Accessible restrooms are available near the entrance, and staff are trained to assist visitors with special needs.

• Benches and rest areas are available throughout the site, though shaded spots are limited.

• Tactile signage and audio guides are provided to support visitors with visual or hearing impairments.

Ancient Agora

• There is a wheelchair-accessible entrance at Apostolou Pavlou by the Temple of Hephaestus, but inside the site, the uneven terrain, gravel paths, steps, and slopes make overall accessibility quite limited.

• If you want to enter through the main entrance on Adrianou 24, we recommend bringing along a companion to help navigate the rough terrain. You can also communicate with the site staff at +30 210 3214824 or +30 210 3210180.

• The Museum of the Ancient Agora, housed in the Stoa of Attalos, is fully accessible and includes step-free entry and an accessible restroom.

• At the museum’s information desk, you will find tactile site plans and Braille brochures available in both Greek and English.

Additional information

Acropolis

• The Acropolis Parthenon operates on a timed entry system, requiring visitors to book a date and time slot in advance.

• Meet your licensed guide at Porinou 5 Street, just a 2-minute walk from the Acropolis Metro Station—arrive 15 minutes early for a smooth start.

• With personal wireless headsets, you’ll hear your guide loud and clear throughout the tour, no matter the crowd or surroundings.

• The Acropolis offers free admission on select days, including March 6, April 18, May 18, the last weekend of September, October 28, and the first Sundays from November to March.

Ancient Agora

• Due to ongoing construction works, the main entrance of the Ancient Agora is temporarily closed. Please use the temporary entrance on Apostolou Pavlou Street, near Akamantos Street.

• Entry is only possible during your reserved time slot, with tickets valid from 15 minutes before until 15 minutes after the chosen time.

• Arrive at least 30 minutes early to clear security, and keep in mind that entry closes 20 minutes before the site shuts.

• You’ll receive your e-ticket and audio guide instructions by email; check your spam folder if needed.

• Download your ticket and audio guide to your phone in advance for offline use, or print the ticket to present at the gate.

• The audio tour works only on newer devices and is not compatible with Windows Phones, older iPhones (5/5C or earlier), older iPods, iPad 4th generation or earlier, or the first-generation iPad Mini.

• If visiting between 8am and 9am, go directly to the Temple of Hephaestus for a quiet experience, then walk back down the Panathenaic Way to the Stoa of Attalos Museum later in the day, when the shade makes it more comfortable.

Concession eligibility

Acropolis

• EU citizens aged up to 25 years receive free admission year-round upon presenting a valid ID or passport.

• Non-EU citizens aged up to 25 years receive free admission year-round upon presenting a valid ID or passport.

• Children under 6 years old, regardless of nationality, receive free admission with a valid identification.

• Senior citizens aged 65 and over from EU countries qualify for a reduced admission fee upon presenting a valid identification card.

• Persons with disabilities with a 67% disability or higher and one escort are entitled to free admission, regardless of nationality, upon presenting a valid ID or passport.

• Greek unemployed citizens can avail of a concession by presenting their ID card along with a valid unemployment card or proof of recent renewal.

• Greek families with multiple children can receive concessions if they present an ID card and a valid certificate of large family status issued by the Greek Supreme Confederation of Large Family Parents. If their children have disabilities, they must also present a Disability Certificate issued by the Disability Certification Center.

Ancient Agora

• EU citizens under 25, including students, enjoy free admission year-round with a valid ID or passport, but must queue at the ticket office to collect a zero-value pass.

• Non-EU citizens under 25 are entitled to discounted rates during the peak season (April to October) with a valid ID, and must also queue at the ticket office.

• Children under 5 years old enter free of charge.

• EU citizens over 65 qualify for discounted rates.

• Non-EU citizens over 65 qualify for discounted rates during the peak season (April to October).

• Persons with disabilities (67% or more) and one accompanying person are granted free admission with a Disability Card, ID, or passport.

• Your voucher will be emailed to you shortly.

• Display the voucher on your mobile phone with a valid photo ID at the starting point.

• Please check your final voucher for the starting point details & specific instructions.