Visiting the Acropolis in Athens is basically non-negotiable for anyone going to Greece.
Imagine this… standing in front of the Parthenon, knowing it’s been there for over 2,000 years. The rich history, architecture, and panoramic views of Athens make it one of the most iconic landmarks in the world.
I knew when I was going to Athens that the Acropolis was at the top of my list. I even booked a room at 101 Adrianou Apartments, which offers an incredible Acropolis view. Waking up to that sight each morning was definitely a bucket list experience! Check availability and book your stay to wake up to the same stunning views!
Since I was spending four days in Athens, I chose to purchase the Acropolis and 6 Archaeological Sites Combo Ticket, which gave me timed entry to the Acropolis and access to six other historical sites around Athens. It was definitely worth it as it saved me time and allowed me to explore more of Athens’ ancient history. Get your combo ticket here to skip the lines and see more!
So if you have a trip to Athens coming up and you’re planning on visiting the Acropolis, here’s everything you need to know!
⏰ Short on time?
👉 Acropolis View Hotel
– 101 Adrianou Apartments
– Electra Metropolis Athens
– Herodion Hotel
– AthensWas Hotel
– The Zillers Boutique Hotel
👉 Things to Do in Athens
– Visit the Acropolis & Parthenon
– Wander through the Plaka
– Catch the sunset from Lycabettus Hill
– Explore the Ancient Agora
– Eat your way through Monastiraki
Disclaimer: Please note that some of the links in this article may be affiliate links. This means that, at no extra cost to you, I may earn a small commission if you click on or make a purchase through these links.
Purchase Tickets in Advance
To skip the long lines and make the most of your time at the Acropolis, I highly recommend purchasing tickets online in advance. During peak tourist seasons, the lines can get extremely long, and the last thing you want is to spend hours waiting under the hot sun. Trust me—Athens gets HOT!
I bought the Acropolis and 6 Archaeological Sites Combo Ticket, which included:
- Timed Entry to the Acropolis: This allowed me to enter the Acropolis at a specific time, avoiding the busiest periods.
- Access to Six Other Sites: Including the Ancient Agora, Roman Forum, and Temple of Olympian Zeus.
💡 Tip: You can book your combo ticket online for the best prices and availability. It’s a great value if you plan to visit multiple historical sites in Athens. I found it super convenient, and it saved me so much time!
Optimal Acropolis Visiting Times
The Acropolis is one of the most visited sites in Greece, and it tends to be busiest between 10 AM and 2 PM. To avoid the crowds and the midday heat, plan your visit for either:
- Early Morning: Arrive right at the 8 AM opening for a more relaxed experience and cooler temperatures.
- Late Afternoon: Visiting after 3 PM also allows you to avoid the largest crowds and enjoy better lighting for photography.
I chose to visit early in the morning, and it was definitely the right call. The site was less crowded, but you’ll need to book ahead of time to get that timeslot. I highly recommend booking in advance to secure your preferred time!
Where to stay in Athens with an Acropolis view
Where did I stay in Athens
👉 Watch our hotel review staying at 101 Adrianou Apartments.
What to Wear for the Acropolis
I feel like this should be obvious, but visiting the Acropolis is no joke when it comes to walking. Leave those sandals and high heels at home! There are steep hills to climb and uneven rocky surfaces at the top. I was so glad I wore comfortable shoes with good grip that day! I saw several people struggling with flip-flops, so definitely avoid those.
- Comfortable Shoes: These walking shoes or hiking sandals with good traction are the best choice. I wore these, and they were super comfortable for the entire day!
- Light, Breathable Clothing: Athens can get very hot, especially during summer. I wore light, breathable fabrics that kept me cool. Here are my top picks for breathable travel clothing!
- Sun Protection: Bring a hat, sunglasses, and sunscreen. There’s very little shade at the top. I used this travel-sized sunscreen that fits perfectly in a day bag. I highly recommend it!
💡 Tip: There’s a strict no-food policy at the Acropolis, so pack light and only bring water. I found this collapsible water bottle super handy!
Sights to See on the Acropolis
The Acropolis is not just about the Parthenon—there’s so much more to explore. Here are the must-see sights:
- Parthenon: The most iconic structure on the Acropolis, dedicated to the goddess Athena. It’s an architectural marvel that has stood the test of time.
- Erechtheion: Famous for its Caryatids, the columns shaped like female figures. The details on these statues are stunning up close.
- Temple of Athena Nike: A smaller temple dedicated to Athena as the goddess of victory. The views from here are spectacular.
- Propylaea: The grand entrance to the Acropolis with impressive columns and a majestic design.
- Odeon of Herodes Atticus: A beautifully preserved ancient theatre still used for performances today.
👉 Tip: Book your Acropolis tickets online here to skip the queues.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
Yes, especially during peak tourist seasons. Buying tickets online helps you skip the long lines and ensures availability for your preferred time slot. Get your skip-the-line ticket here to save time!
The Combo Ticket includes timed entry to the Acropolis and access to six other historical sites, including the Ancient Agora, Roman Forum, and Temple of Olympian Zeus. Book your Combo Ticket for the best value!
Early morning (8 AM) or late afternoon (after 3 PM) are the best times to avoid crowds and enjoy cooler temperatures. Secure your preferred timeslot by booking in advance!
The South Entrance is recommended as it’s less crowded and offers a scenic route past the Theater of Dionysus. Book a guided tour that starts at the South Entrance for a more relaxed experience!
Absolutely! It provides historical context and showcases artifacts from the Acropolis, enhancing your overall experience. Skip the line and get your Acropolis Museum ticket here!
Comfortable shoes with good grip, light clothing, a hat, and sunglasses. The terrain is uneven and can be slippery. Check out my recommended travel gear to be well-prepared!
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