How to Plan Your Visit to the National Archaeological Museum of Athens

The National Archaeological Museum of Athens is a must-visit destination for anyone who wants to learn about ancient Greek history and culture. This museum is home to a vast collection of artifacts that tell the stories of Greek civilization from the prehistoric era to the late antiquity period. If you’re planning a trip to Athens, you can’t miss the opportunity to explore this outstanding museum. This guide will teach you how to plan your visit to the National Archaeological Museum of Athens, including how to book your ticket and get the most out of your experience.

Book Your Tickets in Advance

To avoid the long queues and waiting times that are typical of such popular attractions, it’s highly recommended to book your tickets in advance. The National Archaeological Museum of Athens offers pre-booked entry tickets that you can purchase online. Not only will this save you time, but it will also ensure that you have your ticket ready before you arrive. The museum allows visitors to either print out their tickets or display them on their smartphones.

Get the Audio Tour

When you book your ticket to the National Archaeological Museum of Athens, you can also opt-in for a self-guided audio tour. The audio tour is an excellent way to explore the museum on your own pace, as it provides detailed information about each artifact on display. You can download the audio tour directly to your smartphone, which makes it very convenient. The audio tour is available in different languages, so you can choose the one that works best for you.

Experience the Highlights

The National Archaeological Museum of Athens has many impressive artifacts on display, but some are the stars of the show. Don’t miss the opportunity to see:

• The mask of Agamemnon: This is one of the most iconic artifacts of ancient Greece, a golden death mask that was discovered in Mycenae, dating back to the 16th century BC.
• The Mycenaean Bull: A unique bronze sculpture that depicts a bull caught in a trap. The sculpture is believed to be from the 13th century BC.
• The Bronze Statue of Zeus or Poseidon: The museum displays a bronze statue of either the god Zeus or Poseidon, that was found in the sea off Cape Artemision in Euboea.
• The Horse Rider: a bronze statue of a horseman, believed to be Alexander the Great riding Bucephalus, his favorite horse. The statue is thought to have been made around 330 BC.

Learn About Greek History

The National Archaeological Museum of Athens is much more than just a collection of ancient artifacts. It provides a detailed history of Greece and its civilization from the prehistoric era to the late antiquity period. Visitors can learn about daily life in ancient Greece, religious practices, and cultural traditions. Each display provides an immersive experience that helps visitors understand the context surrounding each artifact.

Conclusion

A visit to the National Archaeological Museum of Athens is a memorable experience that brings ancient Greek history to life. From the mask of Agamemnon to the Bronze Statue of Zeus, this museum has something special for everyone. To make the most out of your visit, be sure to book your ticket in advance, get the audio tour, and enjoy the highlights of the museum. Book your tickets at getyourguide.com and get ready for a fantastic adventure into the history of ancient Greece.

The Ultimate Guide to the National Archaeological Museum of Athens FAQs

The National Archaeological Museum of Athens is one of the most popular tourist attractions in Greece. This museum has over 11,000 exhibits, which represent the country’s ancient history from the prehistoric era up to late antiquity. Due to the high influx of visitors, it is normal that visitors are curious about various things concerning the museum.In this guide, we’ll be answering the most frequently asked questions concerning the National Archaeological Museum of Athens.

1. What are the visiting hours for the National Archaeological Museum of Athens?

The museum is open to visitors from Monday to Friday, from 9:00 am to 4:00 pm, and weekends from 9:00 am to 3:00 pm. Please note that the museum is closed on national holidays like Christmas Day and Easter Sunday.

2. Can you take pictures in the National Archaeological Museum of Athens?

Yes, visitors are allowed to take pictures within the National Archaeological Museum of Athens, but only if they don’t use a flash or tripod. The use of flash and tripod are prohibited because of the potential damage it can cause to the exhibits.

3. Is there an admission fee to the National Archaeological Museum of Athens?

Yes, there is an admission fee to the National Archaeological Museum of Athens. The fee for adults is €10, while for students, it is €5. Visitors under the age of 18 and senior citizens can visit the museum for free. Visitors with a disability can also visit the museum for free, and they can bring one companion.

4. Is the National Archaeological Museum of Athens accessible to visitors with disabilities?

The National Archaeological Museum of Athens is accessible to visitors with disabilities. All galleries and floors are wheelchair accessible, and there are elevators and ramps available. Visitors with disabilities can also get in for free and bring a companion.

5. What is the best time to visit the National Archaeological Museum of Athens?

The best time to visit the National Archaeological Museum of Athens is during the weekdays when there is less crowd. During the weekends, it can be crowded, and visitors may have to wait in long lines before gaining entrance to the galleries. The museum is less busy during the low tourist season, between November and March.

6. What can I expect to see at the National Archaeological Museum of Athens?

Visitors at the National Archaeological Museum of Athens can expect to see various exhibits from Greece’s ancient history. There are collections of prehistoric artifacts, sculptures, pottery, and art from some of the world’s most famous ancient artists. Visitors can also expect to see the Antikythera Mechanism, a complex ancient Greek analog computer.

7. How long does it take to explore the National Archaeological Museum of Athens?

The time it takes to explore the National Archaeological Museum of Athens depends on the individual’s interest and pace. Visitors who want to see everything may need a full day or up to 2 to 3 hours. The museum also has maps and guides available for visitors to help them navigate through the galleries.

8. Can I purchase souvenirs from the National Archaeological Museum of Athens?

Yes, visitors can purchase souvenirs from the National Archaeological Museum of Athens. There is a gift shop within the museum that sells items like jewelry, postcards, and books that relate to Greece’s ancient history.

9. Are there any rules or regulations when visiting the National Archaeological Museum of Athens?

Yes, there are rules and regulations that visitors must follow when visiting the National Archeological Museum of Athens. It is forbidden to smoke, carry large bags, food, or drinks. Visitors must also avoid touching the exhibits or taking photographs with the use of flash and tripods.

10. Are there tour guides available at the National Archaeological Museum of Athens?

Yes, there are tour guides available at the National Archaeological Museum of Athens. Visitors can opt for a guided tour to learn more about the museum and the exhibits. Audio guides are also available in various languages like English, French, German, and Spanish. In conclusion, the National Archaeological Museum of Athens is a must-see place for all visitors who want to explore Greece’s ancient history. By following the guidelines outlined in this guide and keeping to the rules, visitors are sure to have a fantastic experience while visiting the museum.

How to Spend your Time as a Tourist in National Archaeological Museum Of Athens

The National Archaeological Museum of Athens is one of the largest museums in Greece and is considered to be one of the greatest museums in the world. It is home to some of the most important and awe-inspiring artifacts from ancient Greece, and it is a must-visit location for anyone visiting Athens.

Step 1: Plan Your Visit

The National Archaeological Museum is located in the heart of Athens, and it is easily accessible by public transportation. The museum is open daily from 9:00 am to 4:00 pm, except for Mondays. It is important to plan your visit in advance so that you can make the most out of your time at the museum. You may want to consider purchasing your tickets in advance to avoid waiting in line.

Step 2: Explore the Exhibits

The National Archaeological Museum has a vast collection of artifacts from ancient Greece, and it can take several hours to see everything. Some of the most popular exhibits include:

Prehistoric Collection

This collection includes artifacts from the Neolithic period to the end of the Mycenaean era. The collection includes pottery, figurines, and tools from various regions of Greece.

Sculptures Collection

This collection includes sculptures from the Archaic to the Roman period. Some of the most notable sculptures in the collection include the bronze statue of Poseidon and the marble statue of Athena.

Vases and Minor Objects Collection

This collection includes vases, jewelry, and other small objects that were used in everyday life during ancient Greece. The collection includes objects from various regions of Greece and from different periods.

Egyptian and Near Eastern Antiquities Collection

This collection includes artifacts from ancient Egypt and the Near East. The collection includes mummies, sarcophagi, and other Egyptian artifacts, as well as objects from Mesopotamia and Persia.

Step 3: Take a Guided Tour

If you want to learn more about the artifacts and the history of ancient Greece, you may want to consider taking a guided tour of the museum. Guided tours are available in several languages, and they can provide you with a deeper understanding of the exhibits.

Step 4: Visit the Library

The National Archaeological Museum has a library that is open to the public. The library has a vast collection of books, periodicals, and other materials related to archaeology and ancient Greece. If you are interested in learning more about the history of Greece, you may want to visit the library during your visit.

Step 5: Visit the Museum Shop

The National Archaeological Museum has a shop where you can purchase souvenirs, books, and other items related to the museum and ancient Greece. The shop is a great place to find unique gifts and souvenirs to take back home.

Conclusion

The National Archaeological Museum of Athens is a must-visit location for anyone interested in the rich history and culture of ancient Greece. With proper planning and preparation, you can make the most out of your visit to the museum and experience the wonders of ancient Greece.