Towering over the ancient city of Athens, the Acropolis, Greece, is one of the most iconic historical landmarks in the world. Its well-preserved ruins and magnificent architecture reflect a golden age in ancient Greek civilisation, making it a must-see destination on any Mediterranean adventure.
Visiting the Acropolis from the nearby port of Piraeus is relatively convenient and is a memorable addition to any cruise holiday. In this blog, we’ll share all you need to know about exploring this remarkable site, from how to get to the Acropolis and what tours are available to where to get your Acropolis tickets and the best times to visit.
What is the Acropolis?
The Acropolis, Greece, was built in the second half of the fifth century, designed to reflect the progressive thought and flourishing arts in the region at this time. Acropolis means ‘high city’ in Greek, and this ancient, fortified citadel is found on a rocky outcrop overlooking the capital. It now stands as a UNESCO World Heritage site and attracts tens of thousands of visitors daily, all seeking to experience the rich history of Greece firsthand.
It is often queried whether the Acropolis and the Parthenon are the same thing. The Parthenon is an imposing marble temple, the largest building in the Acropolis, and probably the one you picture as you think of this site. However, it is just one of several impressive monuments you’ll find in the Acropolis. There is also the Erechtheion, the Propylaea, the Temple of Athena Nike, and other ancient monuments.
As you wander around this incredible ancient site, you’ll not only be surrounded by intriguing history and mythology but also be able to soak up the breathtaking views of Athens. It’s a fascinating, immersive experience that cannot be missed when visiting this area.
Where is Acropolis located?
With its high position over 150 metres above sea level, the Acropolis is visible from many positions in Athens and beyond. It is also relatively centrally located. From Syntagma Square in the main modern area of Athens, you can walk to Acropolis in around 25 minutes.
Alternatively, you can get to the Acropolis of Athens from the city centre by public transport. The Acropoli metro station is just a 2-minute walk away, and buses and trams also have stops nearby.
To see all the monuments of the Acropolis, you will need to walk up Acropolis Hill on foot, which is somewhat steep in places. If you are concerned about how many steps the Acropolis has, be assured that numerous visitors make the climb every day simply by taking their time and enjoying the attractions along the way.
However, be sure to wear suitable footwear and bring water, particularly on a hot day! If you have mobility issues, you can still get to the top using the recently installed lift.
How far is the Acropolis from the cruise port?
For visitors planning Acropolis cruises and wondering how far the Acropolis is from the cruise port, you’ll be pleased to learn that it is a pretty easy transfer to negotiate.
You’ll dock at the Port of Piraeus, about 12 kilometres (7.5 miles) from the Acropolis. From there, you’ll find a variety of ways to make the journey to Athens, including the Metro (be aware the station is approximately a mile from the port), bus and taxi. A taxi is probably the most convenient option if you are short on time or are less mobile.
Most cruise lines also offer excursions to Athens from the cruise port. These can be a great option, providing a more comfortable, hassle-free transfer where you are safe in the knowledge that you’ll get back to your ship on time.
Buying tickets for the Acropolis
When visiting the Acropolis, you can buy a single-use ticket, a combined ticket that allows entry to other historical sites in Athens or a skip-the-line ticket. Let’s look more closely at some of the frequently asked questions when buying tickets for the Acropolis:
How much are Acropolis Museum tickets?
The single-use tickets are €15 for general admission and €10 for reduced admission in the summer season (1 April -31 October). The price reduces to €10 and €5 during the winter. Please note, there is a planned increase in ticket prices from November 2024.
Can I buy Acropolis tickets online?
You can buy Acropolis tickets online or on-site. The prices of the Acropolis tickets are the same at the gate and online when using the official sites. However, buying the tickets in advance is generally advisable to avoid the often lengthy queues at the ticket office.
Is the Acropolis Museum free for children?
Children and young people up to 25 from the EU and children up to 5 from non-EU countries are entitled to free admission. If you’re travelling from the UK and have children over 5 years old, they will be eligible for reduced admission fees, as are senior citizens over 65. You may be asked for ID, so remember to bring the relevant passports with you.
Combination and skip-the-line tickets and tours
A variety of combination tickets are available on other online sites that give you access to the various archaeological sites in Athens, including the Acropolis. You can also purchase tickets with audio guides and various small-group tours. These types of tickets generally give you priority, skip-the-line access to specified sites, meaning you get to avoid long queues and make the most of your time in Athens.
Cruise lines offering Mediterranean itineraries that include a stop in Piraeus, such as Princess Cruises and Royal Caribbean, also typically have guided shore excursions that include entry to the Acropolis and transfers to and from the port.
When is the best time to visit the Acropolis?
During the summer, the Acropolis is open from 9am – 5pm on Monday, 9am – 8pm, Tuesday to Sunday, and 9am – 10pm on Friday. Note that the last entries are 30 minutes before closing.
It is highly recommended to get there early as it can get extremely busy and hot during the height of the season. Visit the Acropolis during the winter and you will avoid the crowds, but be aware that the closing times are slightly earlier.
Can I visit the Acropolis at night?
Seeing the Acropolis lit up at night is a stunning sight. If you arrive towards the end of the day, you may have the chance to see it like this. Alternatively, there are specific private night tours that offer this magical experience.
Visiting the Acropolis is a once-in-a-lifetime experience that combines history and culture with breathtaking views. Add it to your cruise holiday, and you’ll be guaranteed an unforgettable day ashore that leaves you in wonder.
