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Acropolis of Athens: A Timeless Citadel

Explore the Acropolis of Athens, an ancient citadel and UNESCO World Heritage site, with iconic temples and breathtaking views.

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The Acropolis of Athens, an ancient citadel perched high above the city, is a powerful symbol of classical Greece. Home to iconic structures like the Parthenon, the Erechtheion, and the Temple of Athena Nike, it stands as a testament to Athenian democracy, art, and intellect.

A brief summary to Acropolis of Athens

Local tips

  • Purchase tickets online in advance or opt for skip-the-line tickets to avoid long queues, especially during peak season.
  • Visit early in the morning or later in the afternoon to avoid the crowds and the heat.
  • Wear comfortable shoes as the marble grounds can be slippery and there is a lot of walking.
  • Bring water, a hat, and sunscreen, as there is limited shade on the Acropolis.
  • Consider a guided tour or audio guide to fully appreciate the history and significance of the monuments.
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Getting There

  • Public Transport

    The easiest way to reach the Acropolis is by metro. Take the M2 (red line) to the 'Acropoli' station. From there, it's a short, approximately 5-minute walk to the southeast entrance. Alternatively, take the M1 (green line) or M3 (blue line) to Monastiraki station, which is about a 10-minute walk. A single metro ticket costs €1.20 and is valid for 90 minutes on all public transport. A 24-hour ticket costs €4.10.

  • Walking

    From Syntagma Square, it's approximately a 20-minute walk to the Acropolis. Head southeast on Leof. Vasilisis Amalias, continue past the National Gardens, and turn right onto Dionysiou Areopagitou. This pedestrian street leads directly to the southeast entrance. Walking allows you to enjoy the atmosphere of Athens, but be prepared for a slight uphill climb.

  • Taxi

    Taxis are readily available throughout Athens. A taxi ride from Syntagma Square to the Acropolis typically costs between €4 and €6 and takes about 10 minutes, depending on traffic. You can hail a taxi from the street or use ride-hailing apps like Uber (Uber Taxi) or FreeNow. Be aware that taxi fares may be higher at night.

  • Driving

    Driving to the Acropolis is possible, but parking can be challenging. There is no parking directly at the Acropolis site. Limited street parking is available in the Koukaki area, a 15-20 minute walk away. Paid parking garages are also available in the Plaka and Psyri neighborhoods, with hourly rates ranging from €6 to €12 for the first hour and €1 for each additional hour. Note that parking is metered from 9 AM to 9 PM on weekdays and 9 AM to 4 PM on Saturdays.

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Discover more about Acropolis of Athens

The Acropolis, meaning 'high city' in Greek, is a UNESCO World Heritage site that has been inhabited since prehistoric times. Rising 156 meters above Athens, this rocky hill has served as a home to kings, a citadel, a mythical home of the gods, and a religious center. The Acropolis's golden age began in the 5th century BCE under Pericles, following the Persian invasion. The Athenians rebuilt the Acropolis to showcase their power, constructing the Parthenon (447-438 BCE), a Doric temple dedicated to Athena Parthenos. Designed by Iktinos and Kallikrates, with sculptures by Phidias, the Parthenon set a new standard for classical architecture. Other significant structures include the Erechtheion, known for its Caryatids, and the Temple of Athena Nike, commemorating victory. The Propylaea, a monumental gateway, serves as the entrance to the Acropolis, though it was never completed. Throughout its long history, the Acropolis has undergone many transformations. In the 6th century AD, temples became Christian churches, and during the Frankish and Ottoman periods, it served as a fortress. Despite damage from bombardments, earthquakes, and vandalism, the Acropolis remains a powerful reminder of Greece's rich history. Today, it attracts millions of visitors annually, drawn to its ancient wonders and panoramic views of Athens.

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