National Archaeological Museum: Tickets and Tours

Unravel the mysteries of Ancient Greece in the heart of Athens and dive deep into a world where mythology meets history. Grab your National Archaeological Museum tickets and step into a mesmerizing journey spanning millennia.

From the golden Mask of Agamemnon and Santorini frescoes, to the enigmatic Antikythera Mechanism and marble statues, every corner tells a tale. Get ready to be spellbound by the legacies of the ancients. Don't just read about the ancient history – witness and experience it at the National Archaeological Museum!

Here's all you need to know about the National Archaeological Museum, one of the most exciting museums in Athens.

How much do National Archaeological Museum tickets cost?

Ticket prices for the National Archaeological Museums change seasonally and are as follows:

• April to October: €12
• November to March: €6

There is also a three-day combo ticket for €15 that provides access to the National Archaeological Museum, the Epigraphic Museum, the Numismatic Museum and the Byzantine and Christian Museum of Athens.

Who is eligible for discounts?

Between April and October, non EU visitors aged 6 to 25 and EU senior citizens (65+) are entitled to a 50% discount.

Is it possible to visit for free?

Yes, general admission to the National Archaeological Museum is free on the following days:

• 6th March (in memory of Melina Mercouri)
• 18th April (International Monuments Day)
• 18th May (International Museums Day)
• Last weekend of September (European Heritage Days)
• 28th October (National Holiday) and
• Every first Sunday of the month, from November to March

Additionally, the following can visit for free:

• Children under 6
• EU citizens under 26
• Students
• Disabled visitors (with a disability rating of 67% or higher) plus one escort

Should you book in advance?

Booking National Archaeological Museum tickets in advance is highly recommended, as it allows you to skip the lines and secure entry during peak seasons. Additionally, advance planning allows you to streamline your itinerary and explore the city at your own pace.

What are the best National Archaeological Museum tours?

Self-guided National Archaeological Museum audio tour

Discover the wonders of the National Archaeological Museum in Athens with a self-guided audio tour. Not only does this offer an exclusive ticket to bypass the crowds, but it also provides a downloadable audio guide for your mobile device.

Traverse the museum's expansive halls at your own pace, while the audio guide enriches your journey, detailing the stories and significance behind the ancient masterpieces on display.

Private guided tour of the National Archaeological Museum

Elevate your visit to the National Archaeological Museum with a private guided tour. Led by a seasoned expert, these tours offer unparalleled insights into the ancient world and can be customized to your preferences.

As you navigate the museum's vast halls, your guide will unravel the fascinating stories behind each exhibit, highlighting their historical and cultural significance. From the prehistoric era, to Classical Greece and beyond, you won’t just witness history, but actively engage with it.

What will you see inside?

The National Archaeological Museum in Athens is a window into Greece's illustrious past, from the Neolithic age to late Antiquity. In its halls, visitors can marvel at the minimalism of Cycladic art, the powerful imagery of Mycenaean gold, and the elegance of Classical era statues.

Among the most celebrated exhibits are the golden Mask of Agamemnon, the mythological Mycenaean king who led the Greeks in the Trojan War, and the Antikythera Mechanism – an astoundingly advanced ancient analog computer that charted the stars. In the bronze collection, the awe-inspiring Poseidon of Artemision stands as a testament to the artistry of ancient metalworkers.

The museum’s vast collection isn't confined though to mainland Greece and features treasures from Crete, Thera (Santorini) and Cyprus that showcase a mosaic of distinct identities. Each gallery and artifact in the National Archaeological Museum provides a vivid glimpse into the minds, hearts, and hands of ancient Greeks.

How to get there?

The National Archaeological Museum is located in central Athens on 28is Oktovriou (Patision) Street, a short walk from Pedion tou Areos park. Parking in the area can be difficult, so it is highly recommended to use public transportation. The museum is easily accessible by metro, with Omonia and Victoria being the closest stations. You can also travel to the museum by bus or trolley.

What are the opening times?

The opening hours of the National Archaeological Museum change seasonally and are as follows:

November – March

• Tuesday: 1PM – 8PM
• Wednesday to Monday: 8:30AM – 3:30PM

April – October

• Tuesday: 1PM – 8PM
• Wednesday to Monday: 8AM – 8PM

The museum is closed on 25th and 26th December, 1st January, 25th March, Orthodox Easter Sunday and May 1st. On Orthodox Good Friday the museum is open between noon and 5PM and on Orthodox Holy Saturday from 8:30AM to 3:30PM.

Is it wheelchair friendly?

Yes, the National Archaeological Museum is wheelchair-friendly and features a ramp to facilitate visitors with disabilities, which is located on Vas. Herakleiou Street. Additionally, there are elevators to access the basement and 1st floor areas. Visitors with total or partial loss of vision can also access a list of 20 exhibits from the museum’s sculpture collection.

When is the best time to visit the National Archaeological Museum?

The best time to visit the National Archaeological Museum in Athens is during spring (March to June) or fall (September to November). These periods offer pleasant weather, fewer tourists, and optimal museum experiences. Aim for weekday mornings when the museum opens, as this avoids the peak crowds of the afternoon.

Which other museums can be visited in Athens?

• Acropolis Museum
• Museum of Illusions
• Cycladic Art Museum
• Agora Museum
• Benaki Museum of Greek Culture
• Hellenic Motor Museum
• War Museum
• Frissiras Museum

Travel tips

• The museum is vast, so wear comfortable shoes for prolonged walking.
• While photography for personal use is allowed, flash and tripods are prohibited.
• Athens can be hot, especially in the summer. Carry a water bottle, but remember to drink outside the gallery rooms.
• The museum regularly hosts events, workshops and temporary exhibitions, so check the calendar before your visit.