Kerameikos Tickets

Kerameikos overview

Established in the 12th century BCE and used for centuries, the Kerameikos served as the main burial ground of ancient Athens, playing a vital role in both civic and religious life. As the city's most significant cemetery, it was the final resting place for prominent citizens, soldiers, and statesmen, with elaborate funerary monuments reflecting the social hierarchy of the time. The site also marked the starting point of the Panathenaic procession, emphasizing its connection to both death and public ritual. Beyond its role as a cemetery, the Kerameikos was an integral part of the city's defensive structure, with the ancient Dipylon and Sacred Gates forming key entrances through Athens' fortifications.

Architecturally, the Kerameikos offers a striking display of classical Athenian craftsmanship. The site is lined with beautifully carved stelai, family tombs, and sculpted reliefs that illustrate ancient Greek funerary customs and artistic refinement. The Sacred Way, which led to Eleusis, passed through the cemetery, linking the Kerameikos to the famed Eleusinian Mysteries. The remains of public buildings and workshops nearby hint at the district’s historical significance beyond its funerary function. Today, the site stands as a testament to the Athenians’ reverence for the dead and their dedication to monumental art, preserving a vivid connection to the city’s past.

Available Tickets

Acropolis Pass + Athens National Archaeological Museum Ticket

Entry tickets to 7 archaeological sites (Acropolis and Slopes, Hadrian's Library, Ancient Agora, Roman Agora, Olympieion Kerameikos, Aristotle's School (Lykeion))
Audio guide for Plaka and Ancient Agora
Optional audio guide for all sites in English, French, German, Italian & Spanish
Entry to the Athens National Archaeological Museum with audio guide app

★★★★½ 4.6 (9.3k+ reviews) · Headout

Athens: Kerameikos E-Ticket & Audio Tour

Entry ticket to the archaeological site of Kerameikos (including the museum)
An audio tour for your Android or iOS phone
Offline content

★★★★☆ 4.4 (10+ reviews) · GetYourGuide

E-ticket for Kerameikos with Audio Tour on Your Phone

Adult entry ticket to the archaeological site of Kerameikos (including the museum)
Self-guided audio tour on your smartphone (Android & iOS)
Offline content (text, audio narration and maps) to avoid roaming charges

★★★★★ 5.0 (1+ reviews) · Viator

Kerameikos tickets explained

Where can I buy the tickets?

You can purchase single and combined tickets for the Kerameikos and 6 other popular historical sites from our selection above or from the official website. Tickets bought on the official website are non-refundable and don't include guided tours.

How much do the tickets cost?

A regular ticket costs €8, while a reduced ticket is available for €4. Entry is free for EU residents under 25, children under 5, and visitors with disabilities along with one companion. For those looking to explore more, a €30 combined ticket grants access to the Acropolis,the Kerameikos, the Olympieion, the Ancient Agora, the Roman Agora, Hadrian's Library, and Aristotle's School.

What are the opening hours?

The site is open in the summer from 8 AM to 7 PM (last entry 6:30PM), whereas in the winter (Nov to Mar) it opens at 8AM and closes at 3PM (last entry 2:30PM).

Is the Kerameikos accessible for disabled people?

The archaeological site of the Kerameikos is accessible to wheelchairs through the main entrance at 148 Ermou st.

The museum is fully accessible, and braille information boards and tactile maps are available for the visually impaired. A guide for visitors on the autism' spectrum is also available.

What are the rules and regulations of the Kerameikos?

As for all the other archaeological sites in Athens, visitors are not allowed to touch or climb on any part of the ruins, as this can damage the ancient structures. Eating, drinking, and smoking are also forbidden within the archaeological site to maintain cleanliness and protect the integrity of the temple grounds.Littering is strictly prohibited. Engaging in commercial activities like unauthorized selling or professional photography without a permit is also restricted. Additionally, pets are not allowed inside, except for service animals.

FAQs and tips

How much do tickets for the Kerameikos cost?

The basic ticket costs 8€ for adults and 4€ for people over 65 years or non-EU people between 6 and 25 years. Entry is free for EU residents up to 25 years and children younger than 5. There is also a combined ticket that includes the Acropolis, the Olympieion, the Ancient Agora, Hadrian's Library, the Kerameikos, Aristotle's School and the Roman Agora for 30€ that you can find in our ticket section or on the official website.

Are there any free entry days at the Kerameikos?

Admission is free on the 6th of March, the 18th of April, the 18th of May, the last weekend of September and the 28th of October. This offers a great opportunity to explore this ancient marvel without any cost. You can see the full list of free days and any variations on the official website.

How can I book a private guided tour of the Kerameikos?

You can find a guided tour for the Kerameikos in Athens on different online travel agencies. These are more expensive, given the personalized nature of these tours, and advanced booking is typically required, but the experience they provide is highly customizable.

How long should does a visit to the Kerameikos last?

A typical visit to the Kerameikos may take about 30 to 60 minutes. This time frame allows visitors to explore the ancient cemetery, walk along the Sacred Way, admire the funerary sculptures and stele, and learn about the site's significance in Athenian history and burial customs.