Athens, the capital of Greece, is a city of immense historical and cultural importance. Dating back thousands of years, it is considered one of the birthplaces of western civilization. A crucial part of this city’s appeal is its collection of world-renowned museums that showcase its rich cultural heritage. These museums offer a fascinating insight into the art, culture, and history of Athens and Greece as a whole. In this blog post, we will take a virtual tour of the best museum visits in Athens, giving you an overview of the most impressive collections and must-see exhibits that make Athens an irresistible destination for museum aficionados.

The 5 Best Museums in Athens

1. Viator Exclusive Acropolis of Athens New Acropolis Museum and Greek Dinner
2. Acropolis Ancient Agora and the Attalos Museum
3. Acropolis Museum Night Tour on Fridays With Optional Dinner
4. Private Mythology Tour of the Acropolis Acropolis Museum and Temple of Zeus
5. Athens Museum of Cycladic Art Entry Ticket

The 5 Best Museums in Athens

1. Viator Exclusive Acropolis of Athens New Acropolis Museum and Greek Dinner

Explore the wonders of ancient Greece on a private 4-hour walking tour of the Acropolis of Athens and the New Acropolis Museum. Accompanied by an experienced archaeologist, learn about the historical significance of the UNESCO-listed Acropolis monuments, including the iconic Parthenon. Take frequent breaks throughout the tour to capture photos of the stunning views. At the New Acropolis Museum, observe an authentic excavation site and marvel at the collection of statues and treasures. End the tour with a delicious Greek dinner and wine at a restaurant that offers breathtaking views of the Parthenon. The dinner is optional and not included in the entrance fees to Acropolis and New Acropolis Museum. This exclusive museums visit is an ideal opportunity to indulge in the culture, history, and cuisine of Athens.

2. Acropolis Ancient Agora and the Attalos Museum

Discover the cradle of Western civilization with a walking tour of the Acropolis, Ancient Agora, and the Attalos Museum. With skip-the-line access to the UNESCO-listed Acropolis, you’ll have ample time to explore the Parthenon, Propylaea gateway, Temple of Athena Nike, and Monument of Agrippa. Next, follow your expert guide through the heart of Ancient Agora, Athens’ political center, and marvel at the impressive Hephaestus Temple, the best-preserved temple of Doric architecture in Greece. Finally, head to the Stoa of Attalos to visit the Museum of the Ancient Agora, which houses a remarkable collection of artifacts from a bygone era. Please note that museum admission fees are not included and should be paid directly to your guide in cash. Explore the most iconic landmarks of Athens in one seamless tour that’s perfect for history buffs and adventure seekers alike.

3. Acropolis Museum Night Tour on Fridays With Optional Dinner

The Acropolis Museum is a must for anyone visiting Athens. With its collection of artifacts excavated from the Acropolis site, it provides a unique insight into ancient Greek history and culture. The museum can, however, be incredibly busy during the day, which is why a night tour on Fridays is a great option for those looking to avoid the crowds.

Included in the tour are the entrance tickets to the museum, as well as the expertise of a knowledgeable guide who can offer insights into the history and significance of the collection. Perhaps the highlight of the tour is the view from the museum’s balcony, where visitors can take in the illuminated Acropolis at night.

Another unique feature of the Acropolis Museum is the gallery’s glass floors, which provide a glimpse into the excavations that continue to take place at the site. After the tour, visitors have the option to enjoy a dinner at the rooftop restaurant with unparalleled views of the Acropolis.

Meeting point for the tour is at Athanasiou Diakou 16, inside T, in Athens. Overall, the Acropolis Museum night tour on Fridays with optional dinner offers a unique and unforgettable way to experience one of the world’s premier archaeological museums.

4. Private Mythology Tour of the Acropolis Acropolis Museum and Temple of Zeus

Discover the enchanting world of Greek mythology on this private tour of the Acropolis and Acropolis Museum. With an expert, licensed guide leading you through the sites, you will hear fascinating stories about the gods and goddesses who once called these places home. Marvel at the ancient temples and ruins, including the iconic Acropolis, a UNESCO World Heritage Site. Explore the Acropolis Museum and discover the vast collection of classical artifacts on display. As a bonus, you’ll get a complimentary souvenir to remember your mythological adventure. With private transportation included, you’ll have plenty of time to enjoy this half-day tour at your own pace. Don’t waste a moment in line, as entrance fees are included and skip-the-line tickets are available for pre-purchase. After the tour, take the opportunity to explore the rest of the neighborhood on your own. This experience is perfect for history buffs and mythology enthusiasts alike.

5. Athens Museum of Cycladic Art Entry Ticket

Discover the Athens Museum of Cycladic Art, one of the most comprehensive private collections of Cycladic art in the world. Admire the iconic marble art and figurines created with mastery, dated to 2300 BC, offering a glimpse into the prehistoric civilizations of the Aegean Sea. Browse a variety of artifacts related to historical artistic and technological advancements throughout ancient Greek history, including tools and pottery.

The museum’s Ancient Greek Art collection features a diverse array of items, such as painted vases, bronze vessels, stone sculptures, coins, gold jewelry, and glass items. Witness the development of the Greek city-states and society as you traverse through the exhibition, spanning from the 2nd millennium BC to the 4th century AD. Don’t miss the exhibition on the 2nd floor of the museum, which offers further insight into Cycladic art and culture.

Experience a rich cultural offering and expand your knowledge of ancient civilizations with a ticket to the Athens Museum of Cycladic Art.

Visiting Athens: Answers to the Most Frequently Asked Questions

Athens, the capital city of Greece, is a popular tourist destination. It is known for its stunning ancient landmarks, countless museums, vibrant nightlife, and fantastic cuisine. As a result, travelers have a lot of questions when planning a trip to the city. Here are the most frequently asked questions about Athens, Greece, and their answers.

1. What is the best time to visit Athens?

Athens has warm weather and sunshine throughout most of the year. However, the best time to visit Athens is between March and May (spring) and September to November (autumn). During these periods, hotel prices are more affordable, and the weather is pleasant.

2. How long should I stay in Athens?

You need at least three days to visit Athens. This amount of time allows you to see major landmarks such as the Acropolis, the ancient Agora, and the National Archaeological Museum. Besides, it will be good to spend one day exploring the city’s local neighborhoods, markets, and food.

3. What are the must-visit landmarks in Athens?

Athens is known for its ancient landmarks that are a testament to the city’s rich history. The must-visit landmarks in Athens are:

Acropolis

The Acropolis is the most famous landmark in Athens. It is a rocky hill that houses multiple ancient monuments, including the Parthenon, the Temple of Athena Nike, and the Propylaea.

Ancient Agora

The Ancient Agora is a public square that was once the center of Athenian life. Today, it hosts various ancient monuments, including the Temple of Hephaestus and the Stoa of Attalos.

National Archaeological Museum

The National Archaeological Museum is Greece’s largest archaeological museum. It houses a vast collection of ancient Greek artifacts, including pottery, sculptures, and jewelry.

Plaka

Plaka is a historical neighborhood located right beneath the Acropolis. It is known for its beautiful Byzantine architecture and traditional Greek taverns.

4. What is the best way to get around Athens?

Athens has an extensive public transportation system that consists of buses, metro, electric railway, and trams. The best way to get around Athens is using the metro, which is clean, quick, and affordable. You can purchase a ticket for a single ride, a day ticket, or a five-day ticket. If you prefer to move around the city center or the neighborhood around the Acropolis, you can walk, as the monuments are quite close to each other.

5. What is the currency used in Athens?

Athens is in Greece, and the currency used here is the Euro. Credit cards are widely accepted in most places, and there are several ATMs available for cash withdrawals in the city.

6. Do I need a visa to visit Athens?

If you are from the EU, the USA, Canada, Australia, New Zealand, or Israel, you do not need a visa to visit Athens. If you are from any other country, check with the Greek embassy in your country for visa requirements.

7. Can I drink tap water in Athens?

Yes, Athens has clean and safe tap water. However, many locals and visitors prefer to drink bottled water due to its taste.

8. What is the language spoken in Athens?

The official language of Athens and Greece is Greek. However, many locals speak English, especially in tourist areas.

9. What are the traditional Greek dishes I should try in Athens?

Greek cuisine is known for its delicious dishes made with fresh and locally sourced ingredients. Some traditional Greek dishes to try in Athens include:

Moussaka

Moussaka is a popular Greek dish made with layers of potatoes, eggplants, ground beef, and béchamel sauce.

Souvlaki

Souvlaki is a popular Greek street food made with grilled meat kebab served in pita bread with fresh vegetables and tzatziki sauce.

Gyros

Gyros is another popular Greek street food made with roasted meat, onions, tomato, and tzatziki sauce.

Tzatziki

Tzatziki is a dip made with yogurt, cucumber, garlic, and olive oil.

10. What should I wear when visiting Athens?

Athens has a Mediterranean climate, which means mild winters and hot summers. In the summer months, it can get hot, and the sun can be intense, so wear lightweight, breathable clothing made from natural fibers. In winter, it can get chilly, so bring a light jacket. It is best to wear comfortable shoes as you will likely walk a lot around Athens.

Final words

Athens is a beautiful city that offers a lot of historic and cultural landmarks. It is also a city where you can enjoy amazing food, nightlife, and outdoor activities. We hope this guide helped answer some of your questions about Athens and helped you plan your trip.

How to Spend Your Time as a Tourist in Athens

Are you planning a trip to Athens and looking for some recommendations on how to spend your time as a tourist? Look no further! Athens is an incredible destination with a rich history, ancient landmarks, mouth-watering food, and unparalleled hospitality. Here are some tips on how to make the most of your trip:

1. Visit the Acropolis

Your trip to Athens would be incomplete without a visit to the Acropolis, a hill in the center of Athens that holds some of the most significant historical buildings in the world. The monuments here include the iconic Parthenon, the Temple of Athena Nike, and the Erectheion. You can buy tickets online in advance to avoid long queues, and it’s best to visit early in the morning to avoid the crowds and scorching heat.

2. Explore the Ancient Agora

The Ancient Agora was once the commercial, political, and social center of Athens. Here you can see the Temple of Hephaestus, the Stoa of Attalos, and the Odeon of Agrippa. It’s also a great place to learn about the daily life of ancient Athenians. You can take a self-guided tour or hire a guide to enhance your experience.

3. Take a Stroll in Plaka

Plaka is the oldest neighborhood in Athens, and a must-see for anyone visiting the city. It’s a maze of narrow streets and alleys lined with neoclassical houses, souvenir shops, and tavernas serving traditional Greek food. Don’t miss the opportunity to visit the Lysicrates Monument, the oldest surviving monument of its kind in Athens, located in the heart of Plaka.

4. Learn about Greek Mythology at the National Archaeological Museum

The National Archaeological Museum in Athens houses some of the most impressive collections of ancient Greek artifacts in the world. Here you can see Poseidon’s bronze statue, the Mask of Agamemnon, and the Antikythera Mechanism, an ancient analog computer. The museum covers thousands of years of Greek history and mythology, and is an excellent place to learn more about the cultural background of Athens.

5. Get lost in the Monastiraki Flea Market

If you love shopping, the Monastiraki Flea Market is the place for you. It’s a vibrant market where you can find everything from vintage clothes to antique furniture. It’s also an excellent spot to try some traditional street food, including souvlaki and gyros. Make sure to bring cash and bargain for the best price.

6. Enjoy a Sunset at the Cape Sounion

If you have some extra time in Athens, take a half-day trip to the Cape Sounion, located on the southernmost tip of the Attica peninsula. The cape is famous for the Temple of Poseidon, a majestic temple dedicated to the sea god. The temple is beautifully positioned atop a cliff, offering stunning views of the Aegean sea. It’s an ideal place to watch the sunset and admire the breathtaking scenery.

7. Try Traditional Greek Cuisine

One of the best things about Athens is its restaurants and tavernas that serve traditional Greek food. Don’t leave Athens without trying some of the local delicacies, including moussaka, spanakopita, tzatziki, and fava. For the best experience, choose a restaurant with outdoor seating and enjoy your meal surrounded by the beautiful Greek architecture.

Conclusion

Athens is a fascinating city with plenty to offer for tourists. From the cultural landmarks to the culinary delights, there’s something for everyone. By visiting the Acropolis, exploring the Ancient Agora, strolling in Plaka, learning about Greek mythology at the National Archaeological Museum, shopping at the Monastiraki Flea Market, enjoying a sunset at the Cape Sounion, and trying traditional Greek cuisine, you can experience the best that Athens has to offer. Don’t forget to plan your trip in advance, and use this guide as a starting point for your itinerary.