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[title]Acropolis (‘the edge of the city’), the greatest masterpiece of ancient Greek Classical art, is a citadel situated on a small hill in the center of Athens with several temples including the Parthenon, the temple of Athena Nike and the Erechtheion. It was built in the 5th century BC during the golden age of Pericles, reflecting the power and wealth of the city, and it is dedicated to the city’s patron goddess, Athena.
Considered as the cradle of modern democracy, this really is a must-see site in Athens. Apart from the awesome 360° view, it offers a perfect glimpse into Ancient Greece. The architectural style of this unique monument, created by two well-known architects at the time Ictinus and Callicrates, and sculptor Phidias, has played a significant role in much of the art and architecture you see around Athens today.
What’s the difference between the Acropolis and the Parthenon?
Many visitors confuse the terms Acropolis and Parthenon, but they are not the same. The Acropolis refers to the entire ancient hill in Athens – often called the Acropolis rock – which is home to multiple historic structures, while the Parthenon is the main temple on top of the hill, dedicated to the city’s patron goddess, Athena. The word ‘Acropolis’ literally means ‘edge of the city,’ highlighting its strategic and symbolic location. Besides the Parthenon, the Acropolis also includes notable monuments such as the Propylaia, the grand entrance, the Temple of Athena Nike and the Erechtheion, famous for its Caryatid columns.
Pricing, tickets, tours and booking
You can grab a ticket to the Acropolis hill, including all the temples, for €30 year-round. Admission is free for EU citizens under 25 and over 65 (from Oct. 1 to May 31), and for non-EU citizens up to 18 years old. There is no longer an official combined ticket package, but third-party options are available, including guided tours and skip-the-line tickets on platforms like GetYourGuide. There is also the option of exclusive guided tours outside regular public hours – early morning (7-9am) and late evening (8-10pm), with groups up to five people, for the hefty price of 5,000e.
How to beat the queues
The Acropolis now operates with timed-entry tickets and daily visitor caps (about 23,000 people), making advance booking essential. Buy your ticket online through the official platform to skip long lines at the entrance, especially during peak hours. Early morning or late afternoon slots are the quietest, with fewer crowds and cooler temperatures. Remember that even discounted or free-entry tickets must be reserved in advance, ensuring smoother entry and helping you avoid frustrating wait times.
Plan your trip: where to eat nearby
Likelihood is after climbing this thing you’ll be pretty starving. Luckily, the whole area around the Acropolis hill is full of great restaurants and bars. The Acropolis Museum Restaurant offers a superb view to the lit-up Parthenon and serves up a seasonal menu of classic Greek dishes. We also love nearby Strofi, with more fantastic views and a lovely menu of traditional dishes, made using local produce.
Insider tips for visiting the Acropolis
- Visiting the Acropolis requires some planning, particularly during the summer months when temperatures in Athens can become extreme. Avoid the midday heat in August, as the site can sometimes close temporarily during intense heatwaves. The rocky terrain and bright white marble reflecting the sunlight can make things tricky, especially in the heat.
- Wear comfortable shoes because the paths are uneven and rocky, and be sure to bring plenty of water, sunscreen, and a hat – shade is scarce across the hill.
- In the winter months, rainy days can make the ground slippery, so take extra care and bring shoes with a bit of grip.
- Check ahead for occasional closures due to ceremonies or maintenance to avoid disappointment.
- On a budget? All archaeological sites in Greece are free to visit on national holidays and every first Sunday from November 1 to March 31.