Athens Archaeological Museum Tickets

About the Athens Archaeological Museum

The National Archaeological Museum in Athens is a must-see for anyone interested in ancient history and culture. As the largest museum in Greece, it houses an extraordinary collection of artifacts spanning prehistoric times to late antiquity.

Visitors can explore world-famous exhibits like the Mask of Agamemnon, the Antikythera Mechanism, and stunning sculptures from ancient Greece. The museum is thoughtfully organized and offers multilingual audio guides to help bring the exhibits to life with fascinating stories and context. The opening hours are 8:30AM to 3:30PM from Wednesday to Monday and from 1PM to 8PM on Tuesdays.‍If you're looking for a full overview of what to see, check out our dedicated section. With modern amenities such as air conditioning and accessible facilities, your visit will be both comfortable and enriching. Plus, flexible ticket options and free cancellation with many online bookings make it easy to fit into any travel itinerary.

Available Tickets

National Archaeological Museum Ticket & Audio Guide

Regular entry ticket
Audio guide on cellphone app

★★★★☆ 4.3 (900+ reviews) · GetYourGuide

National Archaeological Museum Entry with Multilingual Audio Guide

Regular entry ticket
Audio guide in English, Greek, German, Spanish, French, and Italian

★★★★½ 4.5 (700+ reviews) · Headout

Combo ticket National Archaeological Museum & Acropolis Museum

Regular entry ticket to the National Archaeological Museum
Regular entry ticket to the Acropolis Museum (open date)
Self-guided tour of Plaka District

★★★★☆ 4.3 (30+ reviews) · GetYourGuide

Private Tour of the National Archaeological Museum

Regular entry ticket
Private licensed tour guide
Free cancellation

★★★★½ 4.6 (5+ reviews) · Viator

What to see in the National Archaeological Museum

Mask of Agamemnon

One of the standout treasures at the National Archaeological Museum of Athens is the Mask of Agamemnon - a striking gold funerary mask from around 1550-1500 BCE. Unearthed in 1876 by Heinrich Schliemann at Mycenae, it was once thought to belong to the legendary king Agamemnon from Homer's epics. Although experts now believe it predates the Trojan War by several centuries, the mask still stands as a powerful symbol of Mycenaean artistry and royal burial traditions. With its detailed design and rich backstory, it's a must-see for anyone curious about ancient Greek history.

Antikythera Mechanism

Part of the museum's Bronze Collection, the Antikythera Mechanism is a fascinating example of ancient Greek ingenuity. Discovered in 1901 in a shipwreck off the island of Antikythera, this 2nd-century BCE device is widely regarded as the world's oldest analog computer. Made up of at least 30 bronze gears, it could predict astronomical events, eclipses, and even track cycles like the ancient Olympic Games. Its sophistication offers a glimpse into just how advanced Greek technology was over two thousand years ago.

Artemision Bronze

One of the most striking works in the National Archaeological Museum is the Artemision Bronze - a stunning example of Classical Greek sculpture. Pulled from a shipwreck off Cape Artemision and dating to around 460 BCE, the statue portrays either Zeus or Poseidon, with one arm outstretched to once hold a thunderbolt or trident. Standing over two meters tall, the figure captures a powerful moment in motion, reflecting the incredible skill of Greek bronze sculptors. Its lifelike anatomy and dynamic energy make it a standout piece from the early Classical period.

FAQs and tips

How much is the entrance fee to the National Archaeological Museum of Athens?

The entrance fee typically starts at 12€ for adults. Ticket prices may vary based on the type of ticket and any additional options such as audio guides. Special discounted rates are available for the same categories as the Acropolis, as they are regulated by national laws. You can check the whole list of free admissions and reduction on our dedicated page.

Can you purchase tickets online for the National Archaeological Museum of Athens?

Yes, visitors can conveniently purchase tickets online through authorized platforms. Buying online will let you skip the line, since you will have to pick a date and time of entry, and you will have the option to add audio guides or guided tours.

Are there any days with free entry to the National Archaeological Museum of Athens?

There are specific free entry days throughout the year, corresponding to certain holidays or celebrations:

6 March (in memory of Melina Mercouri)
18 April (International Monuments Day)
18 May (International Museums Day)
The last weekend of September annually (European Heritage Days)
28 October (National Holiday)
every first Sunday of each month from November 1^st until March 31^st

What are the opening hours for the National Archaeological Museum of Athens?

From Wednesday to Monday, the museum is open from 8:30am to 3:30pm. On Tuesdays, opening hours are from 1pm to 8pm. Visitors are encouraged to check the official schedule before planning their visit, especially during holidays or special events.

Is there a map available for the National Archaeological Museum of Athens?

Maps are available at the ticket counter upon entry or from the official website. Some online ticket purchases may include digital or printable maps, and information desks inside the museum can provide guidance about current exhibitions and gallery locations.

Is the National Archaeological Museum wheelchair accessible?

The National Archaeological Museum is wheelchair accessible, with a separate entrance dedicated to wheelchair users on the side of Vas. Herakleiou Street, accessed either by a ramp from the main view of the Museum or directly from the pavement of Vas. Herakleiou. There are accessible toilets as well as elevators connecting the different floors, and there are also artifacts and dedicated guided visits for visitors with vision impairments.

Do the tickets for the National Archaeological Museum of Athens include access to other nearby historical sites?

Admission tickets to the National Archaeological Museum of Athens are valid only for this museum. They do not grant access to other attractions such as the Acropolis or other archaeological sites in Athens. Separate tickets must be purchased for additional sites. There are, however, combo tickets that might include other attractions for a more convenient price.

Can you eat or drink inside the National Archaeological Museum?

Food and drinks are not permitted inside the collection rooms, but there is a cafè to provide visitors with the needed refreshements.

Is there a souvenir shop inside the National Archaeological Museum?

Yes, there is a shop inside the museum where you will be able to purchase mementos and books from your visit.