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Acropolis of Athens: Ancient Citadel

Explore the iconic Acropolis of Athens, a UNESCO World Heritage site and symbol of ancient Greek civilization, with its breathtaking views and monuments.

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The Acropolis of Athens, a UNESCO World Heritage site, is an ancient citadel perched atop a rocky hill overlooking the city. Home to iconic structures like the Parthenon, the Erechtheion, and the Temple of Athena Nike, it stands as a symbol of ancient Greek civilization and Athenian power.

A brief summary to Acropolis of Athens

Local tips

  • Purchase tickets online in advance to avoid long queues, especially during peak season.
  • Visit early in the morning or later in the afternoon to avoid crowds and the heat.
  • Wear comfortable shoes with good traction as the marble grounds can be slippery.
  • Bring water, as only water is allowed inside the archaeological site, and consider a hat and sunscreen during summer.
  • Use the lesser-known southeast entrance near the Theater of Dionysus for shorter lines.
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Getting There

  • Metro

    The most convenient way to reach the Acropolis is via the Athens Metro. Take Line M2 (Red Line) to the Acropoli station. From the Acropoli station, the southeast entrance of the Acropolis is only a 2-minute walk. Alternatively, you can take Line M1 (Green Line) or Line M3 (Blue Line) to Monastiraki station, which is approximately a 10-minute walk to the main entrance.

  • Bus

    Several bus lines serve the Acropolis. Bus routes 230, 035, 040, 550, and A2 will take you to the Acropolis. Get off at the Akropolē bus stop, which is a short 3-minute walk to the main entrance. A single bus or metro ticket costs €1.20 and is valid for 90 minutes.

  • Taxi

    Taxis can drop you off near the Acropolis, but note that the immediate vicinity is a pedestrian zone. From Syntagma Square, a taxi ride to the Acropolis typically costs around €8-€20, depending on traffic and time of day. Keep in mind that there's a base fare of €1.80, and a charge of €0.90/km during the day (05:00 to 24:00) and €1.25/km at night (24:00 to 05:00). Expect to pay more during night hours. Apps like Uber and Beat are available for booking taxis. Parking near the Acropolis is limited and can be expensive. Metered street parking costs €0.50 for 30 minutes, €1 for 1 hour, €1.5 for 1.5 hours, €2 for 2 hours, €4 for 2.5 hours, and €6 for 3 hours. Paid parking garages are also available in the Plaka and Koukaki areas, with hourly rates ranging from €6 to €12 for the first hour and €1 for each additional hour.

  • Walking

    From Syntagma Square, walk southeast on Leof. Vasilissis Amalias, past the National Gardens. Turn right onto Dionysiou Areopagitou, opposite the Temple of Olympian Zeus, and continue up the street to reach the southeast entrance of the Acropolis. The walk takes approximately 25 minutes. From Monastiraki Square, walk up Adrianou Street, which turns into Apostolou Pavlou. Follow the road, keep right, and you'll find yourself at the Acropolis.

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Discover more about Acropolis of Athens

The Acropolis, meaning 'highest point' in Greek, has been inhabited since prehistoric times, with its history dating back to the Neolithic period. By the Bronze Age, around 2000 BCE, the site gained prominence, and early Mycenaean settlements suggest its sacred significance predates classical Athens. The Acropolis served as a home to kings, a citadel, a mythical home of the gods, and a religious center. In the 8th century BC, it evolved into a major religious site dedicated to Athena, the city's patron goddess. The 5th century BC marked its peak during Athens' Golden Age under Pericles. After the Persian invasion in 480 BCE, the Athenians rebuilt the Acropolis to showcase their strength and cultural achievements. The Parthenon, constructed between 447 and 438 BCE, stands as its most significant structure, symbolizing Athens' wealth and military victory. Over the centuries, the Acropolis has transformed from temples becoming Christian churches in the 6th century AD to serving as mosques and ammunition storehouses under unwelcome invaders, including the Venetians and the Turks. Today, it stands as a cultural UNESCO World Heritage site, attracting millions of visitors annually. Visitors can explore the iconic Parthenon, the Erechtheion with its Porch of Caryatids, the Temple of Athena Nike, and the Propylaea.

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