Visiting the Acropolis: History, Highlights, and How to Get Tickets

Visiting the Acropolis is one of the most unforgettable experiences you can have in Athens, and in all of Greece. Towering above the city, this ancient citadel is a powerful reminder of Athens’ rich history and its lasting influence on Western civilization. Whether you are drawn by the allure of the Parthenon, the graceful columns of the Erechtheion, or the sweeping views from the hilltop, visiting the Acropolis offers a unique glimpse into the world of ancient Greece. In this guide, you will find everything you need to know about visiting the Acropolis: what to see, helpful tips to make the most of your visit, and how to buy your tickets in advance to avoid the crowds.

Visiting the Acropolis: Table of Contents

1. Visiting the Acropolis: Background & History
2. Helpful Tips for Visiting the Acropolis 
3. Ticketing Information & More for Visiting the Acropolis in Athens
4. Visiting the Acropolis: In Summary

Visiting the Acropolis: Background & History

The Acropolis of Athens is one of the most important and iconic archaeological sites in the world, standing as a symbol of ancient Greek civilization. The word Acropolis means “high city,” and this rocky hill has been inhabited since prehistoric times. However, the four main structures we see today were largely built during the Golden Age of Athens in the 5th century BC under the leadership of Pericles. Designed to showcase the power, wealth, and cultural achievements of Athens, the Acropolis served both religious and civic purposes. The Acropolis was primarily dedicated to Athena, the city’s patron goddess and the god of wisdom and war. Before visiting the Acropolis, it is important to learn a little bit more about each of the structures that are located atop the Acropolis. 

The Parthenon 

The Parthenon is the most famous structure in the Acropolis and its crown jewel, a massive Doric temple built between 447 and 432 BC. When the Parthenon was originally constructed, the temple housed a monumental statue of Athena and functioned as both a temple and a treasury. The exterior of the Parthenon was decorated with elaborate sculptural friezes and metopes depicting various mythological scenes, such as the Battle of the Lapiths and Centaurs, as well as the Panathenaic procession, a religious festival held in honor of Athena.

The architectural brilliance of the Parthenon lies in its subtle refinements. The columns, for example, are not perfectly straight but slightly curved, a design feature known as entasis, which corrects optical illusions and gives the temple a more harmonious appearance. The Parthenon’s sculptural decorations are also masterpieces of Greek art, demonstrating a high level of skill and artistry that was unparalleled at the time.

The Parthenon held immense religious significance for the ancient Athenians, serving as a temple where Athenians worshiped Athena, who was believed to have granted the city prosperity and protection. The annual Panathenaic Festival, one of the most important religious festivals in Athens, culminated in a grand procession that ended at the Acropolis. Beyond its religious role, the Parthenon was also a symbol of Athenian democracy and the city’s cultural dominance in the ancient world. The construction of the Parthenon was funded by the Delian League, an alliance of Greek city-states led by Athens, and its grandeur reflected the city’s leadership in the Greek world.

The Parthenon has endured through the centuries, surviving invasions, natural disasters, and changes in religious practices. During the Byzantine period, the Parthenon was converted into a Christian church in the 6th century, and later, during the Ottoman period, it was used as a mosque. Eventually, the Parthenon was used as an ammunition depot by the Ottomans. The structure remained largely intact until the late 17th century, when it was damaged during the Siege of the Acropolis in 1687 by Venetian forces. An explosion caused by a cannonball ignited the Ottoman ammunition store, destroying much of the building’s interior and roof. After which point, the Parthenon, and the larger Acropolis, were left in complete ruin.

The Erechtheion & Porch of the Caryatids 

Nearby is the Erechtheion, built between 421 and 406 BC, known for its asymmetrical design and the elegant Porch of the Caryatids, where six sculpted female figures replace traditional columns. The Erechtheion is one of the most unique and intriguing structures on the Acropolis, both in design and in purpose.

The Erechtheion is dedicated to both Athena and Poseidon, as the Acropolis is believed to be the legendary location of the contest between Athena and Poseidon for the patronage of Athens. According to Greek mythology, Poseidon struck the ground with his trident, producing a saltwater spring, while Athena produced an olive tree, symbolizing peace and prosperity. The Athenians chose Athena’s gift, and the sacred olive tree, said to still grow beside the Erechtheion today, became a lasting symbol of the city itself. 

Unlike the symmetrical Parthenon, the Erechtheion has an unusual, asymmetrical layout, adapted to the uneven terrain and the multiple sacred sites it was designed to encompass. The Erechtheion was built to be a multi-purpose temple that honored several ancient gods and heroes, including Athena, Poseidon, and Erechtheus, a legendary king of Athens.

However, what makes the Erechtheion especially iconic is the Porch of the Caryatids on its south side. Instead of traditional columns, the porch is supported by six elegantly draped female figures known as Caryatids. (Also called korai, or "maidens" in English.) These statues are both graceful and powerful, standing in contrapposto (a slight bend in the knee that conveys a natural stance), and each one subtly different from the others. The Caryatids do not only serve an architectural purpose, but they are also symbolic. 

Some historians believe the Caryatids represent women from the town of Caryae in the Peloponnese, taken as slaves and condemned to bear the weight of the temple as a symbol of their punishment. Others interpret them as figures from the cult of Artemis Caryatis, honored priestesses rather than captives. (The Fitzwilliam Museum at the University of Cambridge has a short write-up on the Caryatids if you are looking to learn more.) Regardless of their true origin, the Caryatids lend the Erechtheion an unmistakable sense of elegance and grace. Over the centuries, they have captured the imagination of artists like Auguste Rodin and continue to inspire architects, historians, and travelers to this day.

Today, five of the original Caryatids are preserved in the Acropolis Museum, and one resides in the British Museum in London. The ones you see at the Erechtheion when visiting the Acropolis are faithful replicas, standing as guardians of a temple that embodies the spiritual and cultural complexity of ancient Athens.

The Temple of Athena Nike

The Temple of Athena Nike, the smallest temple on the Acropolis, celebrates Athenian military victories. Dedicated to Athena Nike, meaning "Athena of Victory," the temple honors the goddess Athena's role in military success and war. The Temple of Athena Nike is located next to the Propylaea at the entrance to the Acropolis. Your best bet to see the Temple of Athena Nike is on your way into the Acropolis, just before you pass through the Propylaea.

The Temple of Athena Nike was designed in the Ionic order, with slender columns and graceful proportions, and originally considered a home of Athena. As such, only priestesses were allowed inside of the Temple of Athena Nike. Inside the small temple stood a statue of Athena Nike, which, according to records, was depicted without wings (unlike the typical portrayal of Nike) to symbolize that Athena would remain in Athens forever.

One of the temple's most famous features is the frieze that once surrounded it, depicting scenes of Greek battles and victories from Greek mythology. A particularly beloved sculpture from the temple, now in the Acropolis Museum, is the Nike Adjusting Her Sandal, a moment of unexpected grace and humanity captured in marble. Other parts of the frieze area also on display at the Acropolis Museum in Athens. 

If you are looking to learn more about the Temple of Athena Nike before visiting the Acropolis, Khan Academy has a really great article diving into the temple's history and architecture. 

The Propylaea 

Even today, visitors enter the Acropolis through the Propylaea, the grand marble entrance that served as the gateway to the sacred complex. Its name comes from the Greek word propylaion, meaning "before the gates." The Propylaea not only functioned as the entrance to the Acropolis but also acted as a physical divide between the earthly realm of Athens and the sacred, spiritual world of the Acropolis.

Seeing the Propylaea in person, it becomes obvious that it is more than just an entrance or gate. It is a large building with halls forming together to create a U-shaped structure. The Propylaea's purpose has been questioned by scholars over the years. Records show that the north wing of the Propylaea was a painting gallery in ancient times; however, scholars generally agree that the building was not originally intended to function as an art gallery or museum, but instead a reception hall for important guests visiting the Acropolis.

If you are looking to learn more about the Propylaea before visiting the Acropolis, Brown University has a short, but interesting article on the Propylaea. 

The Elgin Marbles 

If you are visiting the Acropolis, it is important to understand some of the controversy surrounding its missing pieces. In the 19th century, fascination with the Acropolis grew across Europe, after Thomas Bruce, the 7th Earl of Elgin, shipped pieces of the Acropolis back to England. This collection, known as the Elgin Marbles, makes up a large portion of the British Museum's collection. These sculptures were originally part of the Parthenon’s frieze, metopes, and pediments, as well as other structures on the Acropolis, and include some of the finest examples of classical Greek art ever created.

Today, many of the remaining sculptures and architectural elements from the Acropolis, those not lost or removed by looters, are housed in the Acropolis Museum in Athens. (These remaining sculptures have been moved indoors for preservation.) This modern museum, located at the foot of the Acropolis hill, was purposefully designed with a full-scale Parthenon Gallery on the top floor to display the sculptures in their original orientation and with space left empty for the missing Elgin Marbles, should they ever be returned to Greece.

The issue of the marbles’ repatriation has become a deeply emotional and political subject in Greece. Greece has long called for their return, arguing that they were taken under dubious circumstances during Ottoman rule, while the British Museum maintains legal ownership. The debate continues to this day, making the Elgin Marbles not only a symbol of classical beauty, but also a touchstone in discussions around cultural heritage, ownership, and restitution.

The Acropolis Today

Despite the centuries that have passed since the construction of the Acropolis, the Acropolis, and the Parthenon in particular, has remained a symbol of ancient Greek civilization. After Greece gained independence from the Ottoman Empire in 1832, efforts were made to restore and preserve the Acropolis. These efforts continue today, with ongoing conservation and restoration projects aimed at protecting this invaluable heritage site for future generations. One of my favorite fun facts is that conservation efforts at the Acropolis have been ongoing for a longer period now than it took to originally construct it. So, when visiting the Acropolis, remember that it is an active archeological site, and it has been operating as once since 1833! 

After visiting the Acropolis, I highly recommend a trip to the Acropolis Museum. Located just a short walk downhill from the site, the museum houses many of the original sculptures and architectural elements that once adorned the Acropolis, now protected from the elements. If you later find yourself in London, it is also worth visiting the British Museum, where the controversial Elgin Marbles are on display. While their presence there remains a point of contention between Greece and the UK, seeing these sculptures after visiting the Acropolis offers valuable perspective, and a deeper appreciation, for the scale, artistry, and historical significance of what once stood in ancient Athens.

Helpful Tips for Visiting the Acropolis

• Buy your tickets for the Acropolis about one month in advance of your visit. For more information, check out my section on ticketing in this blog post!
• Arrive early! The Acropolis allows visitors to enter the historic site 15 minutes ahead of your scheduled admission time. I highly recommend that you take advantage of this extra time and enjoy all that the Acropolis has to offer! Furthermore, by securing tickets for the first admission time slot, at 8:00 AM, you will be able to beat the crowds and enjoy cooler temperatures, especially during the summer months.

• Wear comfortable, closed-toe shoes. The walk to the Main Entrance of the Acropolis from Monastiraki Square, on its own, takes around 15 minutes. The walk is up hill, so you will want shoes that are comfortable and have decent traction since the path is not paved perfectly. The ground atop the Acropolis is also uneven and dusty, with the terrain a mix of loose gravel and sand. If it is windy, the sandy ground can kick up quite a bit of dust, so closed-toe, sturdy shoes with a good grip are highly recommended. Shoes that can be easily wiped down or washed if you happen to be visiting the Acropolis on a windy day, will be your best friend!   

• Dress comfortably, but avoid short dresses and skirts. My first trip to the Acropolis in 2021 happened to be on a pretty windy day and out of sheer coincidence, I ended up wearing a romper. That decision was probably the best I could have made without knowing what was awaiting me atop the Acropolis. That day, I saw more dresses and skirts fly up than a Marilyn Monroe movie. So definitely keep that in mind, or if you are really set on wearing a dress while visiting the Acropolis, opt to wear shorts underneath! If you are visiting during the summer months, it will be hot, with average highs around 91°F (32°C). Shorts and light-weight, breathable fabrics will keep you from overheating out in the sun.  
• There is no shade atop the Acropolis. If you are visiting during the summer months, be sure to bring plenty of water and sunscreen since the Greek sun is hot. Water bottles are allowed inside of the Acropolis, but they are not sold inside, so if you think you will need water, bring it with you! Having a hat is also a great idea to protect yourself from the sun. 
• Remember to be respectful. The Acropolis was a place of worship for Ancient Greeks, an architectural masterpiece, as well as an active archeological site. Do not touch or lean on any of the columns, stonework, or temples atop the Acropolis. 
• For the best photos of the Parthenon, you are going to want to walk towards the east end of the Parthenon and the large Greek flag. You might have to wait your turn, but I promise you, the photos from here will be worth the wait!

• Take your time when visiting the Acropolis. I recommend planning to spend around two hours here. That will give you enough time to see everything, take plenty of photos, and really just appreciate the history of the site. Allow for longer if you are planning on taking a tour, whether it be an audio tour or with a tour guide.
• No visit to the Acropolis would be complete without visiting the nearby Acropolis Museum. I highly recommend visiting the Acropolis first and then heading to the Acropolis Museum immediately after. If you are visiting the Acropolis in the late afternoon or evening, consider visiting the Acropolis Museum the following morning. The Acropolis Museum contains many of the original sculptures, friezes, and decor from the Acropolis. However, the highlight is most certainly five of the six original Caryatids! Admission to the Acropolis Museum is not included with your Acropolis entry and separate tickets are required. Tickets for the Acropolis Museum do not need to be purchased in-advance of your visit, but if you would like to purchase tickets ahead of time, they are available on the Acropolis Museum website. The Acropolis Museum's opening hours vary based on the season. The museum is closed on January 1, Orthodox Easter Sunday, May 1, and December 25-26, annually. The museum is open, but with reduced hours, on Orthodox Easter Good Friday, Orthodox Easter Holy Saturday, December 24, and December 31, annually. For additional information, please visit the Acropolis Museum website.

Ticketing Information & More for Visiting the Acropolis in Athens

Before visiting the Acropolis, it is important to plan ahead! Knowing when to go, how to get tickets, and whether to join a guided tour can make all the difference in your experience. Here is what you need to know.

Ticketing & Guided Tours

Free Audio Tour of the Acropolis with Rick Steves' Audio Europe

Renowned travel author and guide, Rick Steves, offers a fantastic - and more importantly, free - audio tour of the Acropolis in Athens through his app, Rick Steves' Audio Europe. The app is available for both iPhone and Android. Audio tours can be downloaded over WiFi, so they can be used without the need for cellular data. The app is completely free, no account or credit card is required. I personally love Rick Steves' tour of the Acropolis, so much so that I have used it twice and recommend it to just about everyone I know heading to Athens on vacation. With that being said, the audio tour takes about an hour if you listen straight through, but you will want to pause the audio tour to take photos, walk to different areas atop the Acropolis, and take in the views. If you plan on using the Rick Steves' Audio Europe app while visiting the Acropolis, do not forget to pack headphones! For additional information, please visit the Rick Steves' Europe website.

Opening Hours

The Acropolis opens at 8:00 AM, daily. However, its opening hours vary based on the season. The last admission to the historic site is always 30-minutes before the scheduled closing time.

During the peak summer tourist season, April 1st through August 31st, the Acropolis is open from 8:00 AM to 8:00 PM, daily. If you are not a morning person, I highly recommend visiting the Acropolis in the evening and taking advantage of these extended summer opening hours. For additional information, please visit the Hellenic Heritage E-Ticket website. 

Getting to the Acropolis 

Getting to the Acropolis in Athens requires some walking. If you are staying near Monastiraki Square, you do not need to take any transportation and you can simply walk to the Acropolis. The walk is pretty easy, just head towards the Acropolis! The walk itself takes around 15 minutes. There is signage, but you can always rely on navigation aids like Google Maps for assistance.

If you are staying further away from the Acropolis, keep in mind that the closest metro station to the Acropolis is Acropoli (Ακρόπολη) on Metro Line M2. The Acropoli station is located near the Acropolis Museum, below the Acropolis. From the Acropoli Metro Station, you can expect to walk around 3 minutes to the South Slope Entrance. 

As you can probably now tell, there are two entrances to the Acropolis: the Main Entrance, which is on the West Slope, and the South Slope Entrance. The South Slope Entrance is near the Dionysus Theater and the Acropoli Metro Station. I personally think the Main Entrance is the better entrance since you will experience the Propylaea in all of its glory as you enter, just as the Ancient Greeks did over 2,000 years ago. Some people swear that the South Slope Entrance has shorter wait times, but that has not been my experience as most tour groups will enter via the South Slope Entrance.  

If you are traveling with someone who experiences mobility issues or are traveling with small children in a stroller, an elevator is available. The elevator is located on the north side of the Acropolis, near the Erechtheion, approximately 0.2 miles (350 meters) from the Main Entrance. 

Visiting the Acropolis: In Summary 

Visiting the Acropolis is an unforgettable experience and a journey back in time and history to Ancient Greece. The Acropolis is a place where Greek mythology, history, and architecture all come together on one of the world's most iconic hilltops. From the Parthenon’s striking symmetry to the spiritual significance of the Erechtheion, and the imposing entrance of the Propylaea, each structure reflects the artistic genius and culture of Ancient Greece. To make the most of your visit, a little preparation goes a long way. Arriving early, wearing the right shoes, bringing water with you, and securing your tickets in advance, especially during peak summer travel months, can enhance your experience. Do not forget to visit the Acropolis Museum to see many of the original sculptures up close!

Whether you are a history buff, a lover of classical art and architecture, or simply curious about one of the world’s most famous landmarks, the Acropolis will leave a lasting impression. It is one of the few very hyped up places in the world that absolutely meets expectations, no matter how many times you visit. 

Looking for more information to help you plan your trip to Athens? Be sure to check out our Athens Travel Guide for restaurant suggestions, hotel recommendations, and more things to do during your time in Greece's capital city! Planning on island hopping after visiting the Acropolis in Athens? Learn more about the best islands near Athens, with the Jetset Seeker blog, including our Guide to the Best Islands Near Athens: Mykonos, Paros, & Santorini! 

Are you dreaming of visiting the Acropolis? We would love to hear from you!

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