Acropolis Museum Guided Tour with Optional Entry Ticket

What to bring

Acropolis

• Entry documents: Keep your entry ticket or mobile confirmation ready for a smooth check-in.

• Payment: Carry some cash or a credit card in case you want to pick up a drink or souvenir from nearby kiosks after your visit.

• Footwear: Wear comfortable walking shoes with a good grip since the marble paths and rocky ground can be uneven.

• Sun protection: Protect yourself from the Mediterranean sun by bringing sunglasses, sunscreen, and a wide-brimmed hat.

• Water: Take a bottle of water, as shaded spots are limited, and Athens can get very hot.

Acropolis Museum

• Identification: Bring a valid ID or student card if you want to take advantage of reduced admission fees.

• Payment: Have a little cash or a card with you for souvenirs or a coffee break at the museum café.

• Footwear: Choose closed-toe shoes for comfort as you walk through the galleries and surrounding archaeological areas.

• Light layers: Bring a light jacket or scarf, as the museum’s air-conditioned rooms can feel cooler than the outside temperatures.

What’s not allowed

Acropolis

• Photography equipment: Flash photography, tripods, drones, and professional camera equipment require special permission and are otherwise prohibited.

• Large bags: Large backpacks, suitcases, and bulky bags are not allowed inside the site and must be left elsewhere before entry.

• Pets: Pets are not allowed on the site, except for certified guide dogs.

• Smoking and gum: Chewing gum and smoking are not allowed anywhere inside the site.

Acropolis Museum

• Photography equipment: Flash photography, tripods, and commercial filming equipment are not permitted; photography without flash is generally allowed, except in the Archaic Gallery.

• Large bags: Large bags and luggage must be stored at the ground-floor cloakroom.

• Food and drinks: Only plain water is allowed; food and other drinks are prohibited inside.

• Pets: Pets are not permitted, with the exception of certified service animals.

Accessibility

Acropolis

• Elevator access: The Acropolis offers limited accessibility for visitors with mobility challenges. An elevator operates near the South Slope entrance, but the site manages it, and availability may vary. Call the site on +30 210 3214172 or +30 210 9238470 the day before your visit to confirm it is in service.

• Terrain: Plan to have support, since the terrain is mostly uneven with limited paved paths. Both you and your escort are eligible for free admission upon showing valid documentation.

• Accessible restrooms: Wheelchair-accessible restrooms are available near the Acropolis Museum and the main site entrances.

• Rest areas: You can find rest spots and benches throughout the site, but shaded areas remain limited.

Acropolis Museum

• Wheelchair access: The museum is fully wheelchair accessible, offering special ramps at all entrances and elevator access to every floor.

• Accessible restrooms: Accessible restrooms are available throughout the building.

• Wheelchair rental: You can borrow wheelchairs free of charge from the Visitor Services or Information Desk.

• Guide dogs: Guide dogs are welcome within the museum, and Braille guides in both Greek and English are available at the Information Desk to assist visitors with visual impairments.

Additional information

• Meeting point: Refer to your voucher for details of the meeting point for the guided tours.

• Tour duration: The Acropolis and Museum combo walking tour lasts about 3 to 4 hours and is paced to match the group and weather conditions.

• Tour sequence: To ensure a comfortable experience, guides may adjust the order of the sites visited.

Acropolis

• Timed entry: The Acropolis and Parthenon operate on a timed entry system, requiring visitors to book a date and time slot in advance. Arrive 30 minutes early for a hassle-free experience. You can enter up to 15 minutes before or after your chosen time slot.

• Security screening: Security check is mandatory at the Acropolis. Expect an average wait of 20 to 30 minutes, with entry times stretching to 1 to 2 hours during the peak summer months from June to August.

• South entrance: Use the south entrance near the Dionysus Theater for quicker access. It tends to be less crowded than the main one and is only a short walk from the metro and museum.

• Suggested route: Proceed straight to the Parthenon at the start of your visit, then make your way to the Temple of Athena Nike, Erechtheion, and other areas. This approach helps you avoid bottlenecks and enjoy quieter spaces later on.

• Free admission days: You can visit the Acropolis archaeological site for free on March 6 (Melina Mercouri Day), April 18 (International Monuments Day), May 18 (International Museums Day), the last weekend of September (European Heritage Days), October 28 (National Holiday), and on the first and third Sundays from November through March.

Acropolis Museum

• Best time to visit: To avoid peak crowds, arrive when the museum opens at 9am, or go in the late afternoon, around 2pm to 3pm, particularly during the summer months from June to August.

• Security screening: All visitors must pass through a quick security screening at the entrance. Expect to wait around 5 to 10 minutes at the entrance, although during the peak summer months from June to August, the wait may extend up to 15 minutes.

• Recommended duration: Plan to spend at least 2 to 3 hours inside the museum to explore the permanent exhibits, admire the architecture, and enjoy the café and views.

• Free admission days: The Acropolis Museum offers free admission on March 6 (Melina Mercouri Day), March 25 (National Holiday), May 18 (International Museums Day), and October 28 (National Holiday).

Concession eligibility

Acropolis

• Children and young people: EU citizens aged up to 25 and non-EU citizens aged up to 18 may be eligible for free or discounted admission.

• Senior citizens: EU citizens aged above 65 may be eligible for free or discounted admission from October 1 to May 31.

• Persons with disabilities: Eligible visitors may qualify for free or discounted admission.

• Ticket purchase: Eligible visitors cannot purchase concession tickets online. Please obtain them at the ticket counter with a valid ID or passport and the necessary documentation.

Acropolis Museum

• Children and young people: EU and non-EU citizens aged up to 25 may be eligible for free or discounted admission.

• Senior citizens: EU citizens aged above 65 may be eligible for free or discounted admission.

• Ticket purchase: Eligible visitors cannot purchase concession tickets online. Please obtain them at the ticket counter with a valid ID or passport and the necessary documentation.

• 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.