The National Archaeological Museum, a fabulous collection of ancient curiosities

The story goes back to 1827. At that time, a law was passed banning the export of antiquities. Two years later, a museum was created to bring together as many works as possible in a single location. Initially housed on the island of Aegina, the museum was later transferred to successive locations in Athens. But as the years went by, the pieces began to accumulate. There was no longer enough room to display them. A building project was launched. Work began in 1866 and was not completed until 1889, due to a number of problems. Despite a history full of pitfalls, the site is now the largest archaeological museum in Greece and one of the most impressive in the world!

The National Archaeological Museum of Athens is open every day, with opening times varying according to the time of year. From 1 November to 31 March, the site is open Wednesday to Monday from 8.30am to 3.30pm and Tuesday from 1pm to 8pm. From 16 April to 31 October, you can visit from Wednesday to Monday from 8am to 8pm and on Tuesdays from 1pm to 8pm. The museum is closed on 25 and 26 December, 1 January, 25 March, Easter Sunday and 1 May. Admission is permitted until 30 minutes before closing time.

Full price: 12 euros (1 April to 31 October), 6 euros (1 November to 31 March). Concession: 6 euros. (over 65s and children aged 6 to 25 from non-EU countries). No concessions from 1 November to 31 March. Free: Under-25s from EU countries, disabled people, refugees and journalists.

There is a special ticket for 15 euros which includes the National Archaeological Museum, the Epigraphic Museum, the Numismatic Museum and the Byzantine and Christian Museum of Athens.

Good to know: free and reduced-price tickets are only available from the museum ticket office. You will not be able to book them online.

• As the museum is very popular, it is best to visit as soon as it opens or at the end of the day.
• An audio guide is available at the museum entrance
• The site is accessible to PRMs
• Visits last between 2 and 4 hours on average
• Any bulky items must be left in the cloakrooms
• A café with works by artists is also available

More information on the museum website.

How to get to the National Archaeological Museum

The museum is located at 28is Oktovriou 44 in the centre of the Greek capital, a stone's throw from the Field of Mars. Because of its location, it has excellent transport links and there are several ways to get there. Omonia or Victoria stations on the tram and metro lines are the best options. Alternatively, the Β5, Α6, Β6, Ε6, Α7, Β7, Ε7, Α8, Β8, Α12, Β12, Ε12, 022, 035, 046, 060, 200, 224, 605, 608, 622 buses are also nearby. Access by trolley is also possible from stops 2, 3, 4, 5, 6, 7, 8, 9, 11, 13 and 14.

Please note that the museum does not have a private car park for visitors bringing their own car.

Where to stay close by