Athens, the birthplace of Western civilization, is a city steeped in history and culture, offering visitors an abundance of sights and experiences. Among its many attractions, Athens boasts an impressive collection of world-class museums that provide a window into the city’s rich past and present. From ancient artifacts to contemporary art, Athens’ museums have something to offer every taste and interest. In this post, we’ll explore the best museums in Athens, highlighting their unique features and must-see exhibits. Whether you’re a history buff, art lover, or simply curious to learn more about this vibrant city, the museums of Athens are not to be missed.
The 5 Best History Museums in Athens
- Athens National Archaeological Museum Ticket With Audio Tour
- Viator Exclusive Acropolis of Athens New Acropolis Museum and Greek Dinner
- Acropolis Ancient Agora and the Attalos Museum
- Acropolis Museum Night Tour on Fridays With Optional Dinner
- Private 3 Hour Walking Tour of Acropolis and Acropolis Museum in Athens
The 5 Best History Museums in Athens
1. Athens National Archaeological Museum Ticket With Audio Tour
Experience the National Archaeological Museum of Greece with convenience using a pre-booked entry ticket that is sent to your email. This will allow you to skip the ticket line and explore the museum at your leisure. With the self-guided audio tour, which can be downloaded directly to your smartphone, travel back in time to various periods of Greek history and discover how they have left an impact on modern life. You can hear stories of the famous artifacts such as the mask of Agamemnon, the Mycenaean Bull, the bronze statue of Zeus or Poseidon, and the Horse rider – all presented by a knowledgeable guide through the power of storytelling. The museum offers a great opportunity to learn more about Greek history and culture, making it one of the best museums to visit in Athens.
2. Viator Exclusive Acropolis of Athens New Acropolis Museum and Greek Dinner
Explore the grandeur of ancient Greece by taking a private walking tour of the Acropolis of Athens and the New Acropolis Museum on this 4-hour tour followed by a delicious Greek dinner. Accompanied by an expert archaeologist guide, marvel at the intriguing architecture of the UNESCO-listed Acropolis and get to know its monuments, such as the Parthenon. Afterwards, visit the state-of-the-art New Acropolis Museum and witness its stunning statues and artifacts. Do not miss the chance to enjoy Greek dinner at a nearby restaurant, overlooking the breathtaking Parthenon. During the tour, you will also get frequent breaks at the Parthenon and other notable sites for taking photos. Lastly, make sure to take a glance at the excavation site in the Acropolis Museum. Entrance fees to Acropolis and the New Acropolis Museum are included, and dinner is optional. This is an exclusive tour offered in Athens for those who appreciate history, culture, and architecture.
3. Acropolis Ancient Agora and the Attalos Museum
Explore the renowned archaeological sites of Athens, the Acropolis and Ancient Agora, on this walking tour that includes skip-the-line access. Learn about the historical significance of the UNESCO-listed Acropolis’ Parthenon, Propylaea gateway, Temple of Athena Nike, and Monument of Agrippa, as well its other landmarks. Follow your expert guide to the Ancient Agora, the city’s political hub, and admire the impressive Hephaestus Temple and the Dionysus Sanctuary. Finally, visit the Museum of the Ancient Agora located in the Stoa of Attalos, which exhibits a broad collection of artifacts. Please note that admission fees to the attractions must be paid in cash to the guide. This is the perfect tour for those interested in classical history.
4. Acropolis Museum Night Tour on Fridays With Optional Dinner
Experience the Acropolis Museum in a whole new light with a night tour on Fridays that allows you to avoid the crowds. As one of the world’s top archaeological museums, the Acropolis Museum is a must-see on any visit to Athens. This tour includes admission tickets to save you the hassle of purchasing them separately, and your knowledgeable guide will provide important context and historical background as you explore the collection of artifacts.
The museum’s balcony offers stunning views of the illuminated Acropolis, while the glass floors allow you to observe excavations below. After the tour, you have the option to enjoy a dinner at the museum’s panoramic rooftop restaurant with views of the Acropolis.
The meeting point for the tour is located at Athanasiou Diakou 16 in Athens. Join this tour to experience the Acropolis Museum and make unforgettable memories of your trip.
5. Private 3 Hour Walking Tour of Acropolis and Acropolis Museum in Athens
Discover the ancient complex of the Acropolis on a private 3-hour walking tour with an official guide. This is one of the most popular attractions in Athens, and with admission tickets included, you won’t have to wait in long lines. Your private guide will show you around the ruins and artifacts, and reveal fascinating stories about ancient Greek civilization. You’ll see the Parthenon, the Temple of Athena Nike, and the Acropolis Museum. The meeting point is at the Acropolis Museum where your guide will be waiting for you. You also have the option to request pickup. This is a great way to explore the Acropolis without getting lost or having to rely on guide books.
Most Frequently Asked Questions About the Museums of Athens
Athens is a city rich in history, art, and culture. Its extensive collection of museums showcases the city’s ancient heritage and modern-day artistic expressions. If you’re planning to visit Athens, you may have some questions about the museums. In this post, we’ll answer some of the most frequently asked questions about the museums in Athens.1. What are the opening hours for museums in Athens?
Most museums in Athens open between 9:00 am to 10:00 am and close around 4:00 pm to 6:00 pm. Some museums may close on specific days such as Mondays or Tuesdays. However, during the peak tourist season, many museums remain open till late at night to accommodate the rush. It’s always better to check the opening hours of the museum you plan to visit beforehand.2. What are the ticket prices for museums in Athens?
The ticket prices for museums in Athens vary depending on the museum and the type of ticket you purchase. There are several discounts available, such as free entry for students or seniors and discounted rates for children. Some museums offer free admission on specific days, so it’s always better to check the museum’s website or call ahead to confirm the ticket prices and discounts.3. What should I wear while visiting the museums in Athens?
Most museums in Athens have a dress code that requires visitors to dress modestly. That means avoiding revealing clothing, shorts, and tank tops. If you’re unsure whether your outfit is appropriate for the museum, it’s always better to dress more conservatively. Comfortable shoes are also a must, as you’ll need to do a lot of walking while visiting the museums.4. Can I take photographs in the museums of Athens?
Photography is generally prohibited in most museums in Athens. However, some museums allow photography without the use of flash or tripods. It’s always better to check the museum’s website or ask the staff before taking any photographs.5. Are there any guided tours available in the museums of Athens?
Yes, there are guided tours available in many museums in Athens. These tours are led by expert tour guides who take visitors on in-depth explorations of the museum’s collections. Guided tours offer a great way to learn more about the exhibits and collections on display.6. What are the must-visit museums in Athens?
Athens has many museums to choose from, but the must-visit ones include:The Acropolis Museum
The Acropolis Museum is home to some of the most impressive artifacts from the ancient Greek civilization. The museum’s collection includes artifacts found at the Acropolis site, including sculptures, pottery, and friezes.
The National Archaeological Museum
The National Archaeological Museum is the largest archaeological museum in Greece, and one of the most important in the world. The museum’s collection includes artifacts from all over Greece, including sculptures, pottery, and figurines.
The Benaki Museum
The Benaki Museum is a unique museum that showcases the evolution of Greek culture from ancient times to the present day. The museum’s collection includes paintings, sculptures, costumes, and other artifacts from different eras of Greek history.
The Museum of Cycladic Art
The Museum of Cycladic Art is dedicated to the ancient Cycladic civilization that flourished in the Aegean Sea from the 3rd millennium BC. The museum’s collection includes artifacts such as sculptures, pottery, and marble figurines.
