National Archaeological Museum Athens
Explore millennia of ancient Greek art and history at one of the world's most important archaeological museums.
Highlights
Must-see attractions
Social
From TikTok & Reddit
Best Time
Fewer school groups, less crowded.
National Archaeological Museum Athens
Best Time
Fewer school groups, less crowded.
Highlights
Must-see attractions
Explore millennia of ancient Greek art and history at one of the world's most important archaeological museums.
"A treasure trove of ancient wonders, this museum is a must-visit for anyone interested in Greek history."
⏳ Allow ample time
You can easily spend 3 hours or a full day here. Don't rush!
🎟️ Buy tickets on the spot
No need to pre-book tickets; purchase them at the museum.
Highlights
Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences
Antikythera Mechanism
Room 39
The world's first analog computer, a marvel of ancient engineering and astronomical calculation.
Bronze Statue of Poseidon
Room 21
A powerful and imposing sculpture of the Greek god of the sea, showcasing masterful bronze casting.
Mycenaean Collection
Rooms 4-6
Discover golden death masks, intricate jewelry, and weapons from the legendary civilization of Mycenae.
Cycladic Figurines
Room 1
Elegant marble figures from the Cycladic islands, known for their minimalist and abstract forms.
Planning Your Visit
Beat the Crowds & Maximize Your Visit
Tickets & What to Expect
Best Times
Insider Tips
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit
National Archeological Museum
⏳ Allow ample time
You can easily spend 3 hours or a full day here. Don't rush!
🎟️ Buy tickets on the spot
No need to pre-book tickets; purchase them at the museum.
National Archaeological Museum
Athens - Acropolis museum or archeological museum?
👟 Comfortable shoes are a must
You'll be on your feet for hours exploring this vast museum. :athletic_shoe:
🎧 Utilize audio tours
Free thematic audio tours are available to download.
What's up with the National Archeological Museum in Athens?
Tips
from all over the internet
⏳ Allow ample time
You can easily spend 3 hours or a full day here. Don't rush!
🎟️ Buy tickets on the spot
No need to pre-book tickets; purchase them at the museum.
👟 Comfortable shoes are a must
You'll be on your feet for hours exploring this vast museum. :athletic_shoe:
🎧 Utilize audio tours
Free thematic audio tours are available to download.
🗺️ Focus on highlights
If short on time, prioritize key exhibits like the Antikythera Mechanism.
What Travellers Say
Reviews Summary
Visitors consistently praise the National Archaeological Museum Athens for its immense and significant collection, offering a deep dive into ancient Greek history and art. Many highlight specific artifacts like the Antikythera Mechanism and the Mycenaean treasures as unforgettable. However, some find the museum's vastness overwhelming and occasionally note that parts of the museum can be under renovation.
"Acropolis Museum – The Perfect Partner to the Acropolis
We visited the Acropolis Museum as a group of four: two adults and two kids (17 and 11). A nice surprise — kids under 18 get in for free! Adults pay about €12 each, so our total was just €24 — very reasonable for what you get.
🏛️ The museum itself:
It’s huge, beautifully designed, and you could easily spend a whole day here. The exhibits cover Greek culture, history, and art, with incredible detail. Most of the statues and artifacts that were originally part of the Acropolis (or removed for preservation) are displayed here, so you’re seeing the real treasures up close.
✨ What makes it special:
• A chance to see pieces from the Acropolis that you won’t find on the hill itself.
• Exhibits that connect Greek history with the Roman era.
• A modern, spacious museum that makes exploring easy and enjoyable.
Final thought: If you’re visiting Greece, the Acropolis is a must — but the Acropolis Museum is just as important. It brings the history to life in ways the ruins alone can’t. Strongly recommend making time for both."
Theavy
"I recommend visiting as early as possible to beat the line ups and crowds. This museum is massive and the overcrowding becomes overwhelming and affects the experience within the museum.
It is worth visiting if you are interested in Greek history. Be prepared to stand for 4-5 hours plus to visit and listen to the description for the pieces on display.
There is air conditioning but it cannot keep up with the massive space.
You need to wait in line to purchase tickets, then to check out devices to listen to the audio files.
You also have to wait in line to return them.
This part is very disorganized. The museum seemed understaffed.
Hold tight to your purse, and do not bring any valuables with you.
You must check any backpacks on arrival.
There is a cafe in the lower level, prices are inflated. I would recommend eating before your visit."
Mello
"⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️
Absolutely fascinating museum! The collection is well organized and gives a clear timeline of ancient civilizations in the region. The artifacts are beautifully preserved, and the explanations are easy to follow without being overwhelming. The highlights for me were the pottery displays and the reconstructed statues — they really bring history to life.
The building itself is modern, clean, and well laid out, with plenty of signs in English (and other languages). There’s also a small café and a gift shop with unique, reasonably priced souvenirs.
Plan to spend at least 2–3 hours here if you want to take everything in. A must-visit while in Athens for history lovers and families alike."
Shannon O'Connor
What People Like
What People Dislike
Frequently Asked Questions
🚇 🗺️ Getting There
The museum is easily accessible by public transport. Take the Metro to Omonia or Victoria station. It's also a pleasant walk from many central Athens locations.
Street parking can be challenging in this busy area. It's recommended to use public transport or a taxi.
You can take the Metro (Line 3) directly from Athens International Airport to Monastiraki or Syntagma, then transfer to Line 1 towards Kifissia and alight at Omonia or Victoria station.
The area is generally safe during the day, but it's always wise to be aware of your surroundings and stick to well-lit, major streets, especially at night.
Yes, it's a walk of about 25-30 minutes from the Acropolis area. It's a good way to see more of the city.
🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry
You can purchase tickets directly at the museum's ticket counter. Pre-booking is not usually necessary.
Opening hours vary seasonally. Generally, it opens around 8:00 AM and closes between 3:00 PM and 8:00 PM. Always check the official website for the most current times.
Ticket prices are subject to change, but there's a standard admission fee. Reduced rates may be available for certain groups. Check the official website for current pricing.
While there isn't a universal combined ticket for all museums, sometimes special exhibitions or temporary passes might be available. It's best to check the museum's official site or inquire at the ticket counter.
Refund policies can vary. If you purchase tickets on-site, it's generally straightforward. For online purchases, review the terms and conditions carefully.
🎫 🏛️ Onsite Experience
Most visitors spend around 2.5 to 3 hours to see the highlights. However, you could easily spend a full day or even two if you want to explore every exhibit in detail.
Yes, the museum offers free thematic audio tours that you can access.
Don't miss the Antikythera Mechanism, the Bronze Statue of Poseidon, the Mycenaean collection, and the Cycladic figurines.
The museum strives to be accessible. Check their official website or contact them directly for specific information on ramps, elevators, and accessible restrooms.
Photography is generally allowed for personal use, but flash photography and tripods are usually prohibited to protect the artifacts.
🍽️ 🍽️ Food & Dining
The museum typically has a cafe or a small refreshment area, but for a full meal, it's best to explore the surrounding neighborhoods.
The area around the museum offers various dining options, from traditional tavernas to modern cafes. Explore streets like Patision for local eateries.
Yes, the restaurants in the vicinity are generally safe and offer authentic Greek cuisine.
It's usually best to consume your own food and drinks outside the museum galleries to preserve the artifacts and maintain a clean environment.
Athens has a growing number of vegetarian and vegan-friendly restaurants. You'll likely find good options in the neighborhoods surrounding the museum.
📸 📸 Photography
Capture the grandeur of the building's neoclassical architecture, the intricate details of sculptures, and the unique artifacts like the Antikythera Mechanism.
No, flash photography is typically prohibited to protect the delicate artifacts from damage.
Tripods are generally not permitted inside the museum to avoid obstructing other visitors and to prevent accidental damage.
Natural light can be good, but the museum's lighting is designed to preserve the exhibits. Focus on capturing the details of the artifacts.
The large bronze statues, the golden masks from Mycenae, and the detailed pottery offer excellent photographic subjects.
For Different Travelers
Tailored advice for your travel style
👨👩👧 Families with Kids
To avoid meltdowns, plan for shorter visits, perhaps focusing on one or two key collections. Take breaks at the museum's cafe or find a nearby park. Ensure everyone wears comfortable shoes, as the museum is extensive.
🏛️ History Buffs & Art Enthusiasts
Consider researching specific artifacts or periods beforehand to enhance your appreciation. The Antikythera Mechanism is a prime example of an exhibit that rewards prior knowledge.
🚶♀️ Solo Travelers
Consider using the audio guide to gain context and insights without needing to join a group.
Deep Dives
In-depth insights and expert knowledge
A Treasure Trove of Ancient Greece
Visitors can expect to be awestruck by the sheer volume and quality of the exhibits. From the enigmatic Cycladic figurines with their minimalist beauty to the opulent gold treasures of Mycenaean civilization, the museum offers a comprehensive journey through ancient Greek art and culture. The Antikythera Mechanism, often called the world's first analog computer, is a particular highlight, showcasing the advanced scientific knowledge of the ancient Greeks.
Navigating the museum can be an undertaking due to its size. It's advisable to plan your visit, perhaps focusing on specific periods or collections that interest you most. The museum's layout guides you through different eras, allowing for a chronological exploration of Greek history.
Navigating the Collections: What to See
The Sculpture Collections (Rooms 7-38) are extensive, covering archaic, classical, and Hellenistic periods. Here you'll find masterpieces like the Bronze Statue of Poseidon, the Marathon Boy, and the intricate friezes from the Temple of Athena Nike. The Vase and Minor Objects Collection (Rooms 39-52) displays a stunning array of pottery, jewelry, and small decorative items that offer insights into daily life and artistic trends.
Don't miss the Egyptian and Near Eastern Antiquities (Rooms 53-55) for a broader perspective on ancient Mediterranean cultures. The Antikythera Mechanism (Room 39) is a unique technological marvel that deserves dedicated attention.
Practical Tips for Your Visit
Tickets can be purchased on-site, so there's no urgent need to book in advance unless you're visiting during an exceptionally busy period or a special event.
While there's a cafe inside, consider exploring the surrounding neighborhoods for a more authentic dining experience. The area around the museum has many traditional tavernas and cafes.
Social
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit