About Acropolis and Parthenon, Athens
The rocky Acropolis was the religious heart of ancient Athens. After the Persians sacked it in 480 BCE, Pericles sponsored a building program that produced the Parthenon, the Erechtheion with its Caryatid porch, the small Temple of Athena Nike and the monumental Propylaia gateway. The Parthenon housed a colossal gold and ivory statue of Athena, the city's protector.
Every four years the Panathenaic procession carried a new robe up the Sacred Way to Athena's ancient olive wood image. Later the Parthenon served as a church, a mosque and a gunpowder store before an explosion in 1687 wrecked it. The Acropolis Museum at the foot of the hill displays sculpture from the temples in a glass gallery aligned with the Parthenon.
What to see
- Parthenon
- Erechtheion and the Caryatids
- Temple of Athena Nike
- Propylaia gateway
- Acropolis Museum and Parthenon gallery
Visiting Acropolis and Parthenon, Athens: practical guide
- Best time
- April to May and October; first entry of the day
- Hours
- Usually 8:00 to 20:00 in summer and 8:00 to 17:00 in winter
- Entry
- About 30 EUR in high season; timed entry slots
- Dress code
- Shoes with grip for polished marble; sun protection
- Nearest airport
- Athens International Airport (ATH), 30 km
Tips from experienced pilgrims
- Book a timed slot online
- Enter by the south slope to avoid the main queue
- Combine with the Acropolis Museum and the Theater of Dionysus
Festivals and special days
- Panathenaia (ancient, midsummer)
- Full moon evening openings in August
Etiquette for visitors
Guidance drawn from Ancient Greek Religion tradition. Always follow signs and local custodians.
- Stay behind ropes and on marked paths, especially on the Acropolis.
- Do not touch or sit on ancient marble, columns or inscriptions.
- Wear sturdy shoes without heels; marble can be slippery.
- Respect bans on drones, tripods and professional shoots without permits.
- Carry water, since many sites are exposed with little shade.
- Take nothing from sites; even small stones are protected by Greek law.
Location map
Open in OpenStreetMap · Get directions
Frequently asked questions
Where is Acropolis and Parthenon, Athens?
Acropolis and Parthenon, Athens is in Athens, Attica, Greece, Europe. GPS coordinates: 37.9715, 23.7267. The nearest airport is Athens International Airport (ATH), 30 km.
What is the best time to visit Acropolis and Parthenon, Athens?
April to May and October; first entry of the day
Is there an entry fee for Acropolis and Parthenon, Athens?
About 30 EUR in high season; timed entry slots Opening hours: Usually 8:00 to 20:00 in summer and 8:00 to 17:00 in winter
What should I wear when visiting Acropolis and Parthenon, Athens?
Shoes with grip for polished marble; sun protection
Which religion is Acropolis and Parthenon, Athens sacred to?
Acropolis and Parthenon, Athens is sacred to Ancient Greek Religion, Hellenism. Archaeological ruins. It is part of a UNESCO World Heritage Site.
