The Acropolis Museum in Athens
The Acropolis Museum, located in the historical area of Makriyianni, southeast of the Acropolis in Athens, offers a captivating experience for all ages. Just 300 meters from the Acropolis itself, the museum showcases finds from sanctuaries on the Acropolis slopes and everyday objects used by Athenians throughout history. Its unique architectural design, with abundant windows, gives visitors the impression that the museum floats above the archaeological excavation.
Don’t miss the marble Parthenon sculptures, including the iconic Caryatids, which once functioned as columns at the Erechtheion temple. Recently, the museum opened an ancient Athenian neighborhood for public exploration, guided by the museum’s archaeologists.
In 2024, the Acropolis Museum in Athens also inaugurated a new innovative exhibition hall on its premises, which will host rare exhibits and artifacts from the residents of the ancient city. Named ‘The Excavation Museum’, the hall is located at the archaeological site beneath the museum’s main building and hosts 1,150 artifacts out of the thousands left behind by people who lived there for more than 4,500 years.
Families at the Acropolis Museum
Families can delve into ancient technology, art creation, and exact copy production in the Lab on the second floor. For young explorers, the Acropolis Museum provides Family Backpacks filled with activities and trails, free of charge. These backpacks, equipped with games, offer both quick and intricate ways to explore the museum. Plus, keep an eye out for the impressive LEGO® Acropolis model, constructed from over 120,000 LEGO® bricks! The museum’s café, with a glass floor revealing the excavation below, and the panoramic-view restaurant on the second floor are perfect spots to recharge during your visit with kids.
Visiting the Acropolis Museum
When planning a visit to the Acropolis Museum in Athens, here’s what you need to know:
- Location and Opening Hours: The museum is situated down the slope of the Acropolis, at 15 Dionysiou Areopagitou Street, Athens. It’s open from Monday to Friday, 9:00 AM to 5:00 PM. The modern, state-of-the-art building seamlessly blends classicism with modernism, offering a visual connection to the ancient Acropolis. The elevated feel of the museum, standing on raised columns, adds to the experience.
- Accessibility: The Acropolis Museum is accessible for visitors with disabilities. Elevators and ramps ensure easy movement throughout the museum.
- Family-Friendly: Families will enjoy exploring the museum together. Don’t miss the Family Backpacks, which provide engaging activities and trails for young explorers. Plus, as mentioned above, the LEGO® Acropolis model is a hit with kids!
- Entrance Fee: The entrance fee is €10 for adults, but children under 18 enter for free. It’s a great value for the wealth of artifacts and exhibits you’ll encounter.
- Dining: If you need a break, head to the museum’s café with a glass floor revealing the excavation below, or visit the panoramic-view restaurant on the second floor.
- Duration: Plan for at least a couple of hours to explore the museum thoroughly. The exhibits cover three floors and offer fascinating insights into Ancient Greece.
A family-friendly guided tour at the Acropolis Museum
When exploring the Acropolis with your family, hiring a knowledgeable guide can significantly enhance your experience. Here’s why I think it is important to hire a family-friendly guide:
- Unlock Hidden Stories: Guides reveal captivating tales and secrets behind the ancient ruins. These stories bring the Acropolis to life, making it more than just a collection of stones. You’ll learn about courageous heroes, epic love stories, and mighty gods—connecting you to Greece’s rich mythology.
- Context and Significance: Guides provide historical context, explaining the purpose and significance of each monument. Understanding the Acropolis’ role in ancient Athens deepens your appreciation for its enduring legacy.
- Interactive Learning: Guides engage both adults and kids with interactive storytelling. Children will be fascinated by mythical creatures and legendary adventures, leaving them wide-eyed and curious.
- Access to 3D Technology: Some tours offer 3D iPads, allowing you to see the Acropolis as it stood during the 5th century BC. This immersive experience bridges the gap between past and present.
- Carefree Exploration: With a guide, you can focus on absorbing the history and scenery. No need to navigate guidebooks or worry about missing essential details.
In summary, a family guide transforms your visit from ordinary to extraordinary, making the Acropolis an unforgettable adventure for all ages.
Read Also: A tour with Kids at the Acropolis Museum
Acropolis Museum Tours with Kids
Families visiting the Acropolis Museum can enjoy private guided tours tailored for all ages. Here are some tours that we have tried over the years:
- Private Family Guided Tour: This 2-hour tour takes you through the museum’s incredible collection of ancient Greek art and design. Accompanied by a kid-friendly, specialized guide, you’ll explore myths, legends, and the legacy behind renowned pieces.
- Athens Mythology Tour: During this 4-hour private tour, your family will delve into ancient Greek mythology. Your guide will creatively introduce you to the Acropolis site’s major monuments and visit the museum, revealing the inspiration behind this iconic place.
Remember, these tours offer an immersive and educational experience for both adults and kids.
To book a family-friendly tour at the Acropolis Museum, please email info@familyexperiencesblog.com
Winter program 2023
The Acropolis Museum in Athens has introduced its winter activities for families and kids. The Acropolis of Athens Tickets are now at a reduced admission fee of 5 euros (reduced admission is 3 euros) for children and adults. Further, each first Sunday of the month, entrance to the museum is free. The museum’s winter program will run during the November 1 – March 31 period. Opening hours to the museum are as follows:
Winter season 1 November – 31 March
Monday – Thursday 9 am – 5 pm / Last entry: 4:30 pm
Friday 9 am – 10 pm / Last entry: 9:30 pm
Saturday & Sunday 9 am – 8 pm / Last entry: 7:30 pm
Strange creatures at the Museum
The newly launched activity for kids is called Strange creatures at the Acropolis Museum and runs from 7 November until 27 March. The activity is built around animals and the mythical creatures of Ancient Greece. Children are challenged to explore what is truly the Hippalektryon, a rooster or a horse? A real mystery! And what about Centaur, Typhon, Triton, and so many others? They will discover the creatures of the earth, the sea, and the air, all creations of the imagination of the ancient Greeks. Children will be given materials to take home and create their own strange creatures. If they choose to do so, they can photograph their artworks and upload them on the website of the Acropolis Museum in Athens for kids!
| Days & hours | every Sunday, 10:30 a.m. and 12:30 p.m. |
| Language | Greek |
| Duration | 60 minutes |
| Registration | Refer to the Information Desk on the same day. Limited to 30 visitors per program. First-in first-served. |
| Health protection measures | It is necessary to wear a protective mask (not provided by the Museum) and to use the whisper guide system headsets (provided by the Museum). Read more about the Museum’s health protection measures. |
| Cost | Participation for children is free. A general admission fee (5€) is required for parents/escorts. |
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