Follow these two self-guided walking tours of the Acropolis (with maps) so that you can enter through one of the two main entrances of your choice, move from lower elevations to the summit, and see the iconic monuments of the Acropolis logically and coherently that tells you the great story of the Acropolis of Athens. Let’s get walking!
Why Visit the Acropolis?
The Acropolis isn’t just another ancient ruin. Recognized by UNESCO as a universal symbol of classical civilization, it’s a testament to Ancient Greece’s artistic and architectural brilliance.
Built largely during the 4th century BC under the visionary architect Pericles, these monuments celebrate the victory over the Persians and symbolize the Greek Golden Age.
Beyond their architectural marvels, the monuments atop the Acropolis tell the story of the people of Attica choosing Athena as their goddess.
Mythology adds even more intrigue: the Acropolis was the site of the legendary contest between Poseidon, god of the sea, and Athena, goddess of wisdom and war. The marks of their divine battle are still etched in the rocks, adding layers of meaning to this incredible site.
Two Entrances, Two Walking Tours
🏛️ Acropolis Self-Guided Tour Route 1: Begin at the main (Western) Entrance via the Propylaea
🏛️ Acropolis Self-Guided Tour Route 2: Begin at the Southeastern Entrance near the Theater of Dionysus
The Main Entrance (Western Side)
This entrance leads visitors up a gentle incline to the Propylaea, the grand formal gateway. It offers the most authentic way to experience the Acropolis as the ancient Athenians did.
Located about a 12-minute walk from Monastiraki Metro Station or a 6-minute walk from the Acropolis Hill bus stop (Bus 230), it’s easily accessible.
For mobility-impaired visitors, there’s an elevator 350 meters from the main entrance and golf carts available to assist with getting around.
However, this entrance comes with a major downside: the crowds. During peak times (especially summer mornings after 9:30 am), the queues can be long, even with skip-the-line tickets.
If you’re visiting during these hours, consider starting your tour at the quieter side entrance.
The Side Entrance (Theatre of Dionysus Gate)
For a faster and less crowded entry, use the southeastern gate near the Theatre of Dionysus.
Located across from the Acropolis Metro Station and the Acropolis Museum, this entrance leads you to the southern slope and the Theatre of Dionysus, the birthplace of drama.
Why This Order?
I have designed these two walking routes according to efficiency, elevation, and historical context.
🏺Efficiency: These routes minimize backtracking and align with the natural flow of the Acropolis layout.
🏺Elevation: Both start with lower elevations and move upwards, making navigation smoother.
🏺Historical Context: They follow a logical storytelling sequence, helping you understand the progression of ancient Greek architecture and culture.
Get Your Acropolis Tickets Before You Go
Admission to the Acropolis is now timed so you need to book in advance you preferred day and time and be there up to 30 minutes early to get through security.
🎟️ The best instant online ticket that you can download directly to your phone (no printing or having to exchange the electronic ticket for a paper one at a site removed from the Acropolis) is here.
🎟️ The best online ticket, if you’d like to visit up to 7 ancient sites in Athens, is the Acropolis Combo Pass (more about it below).
🎟️ The best Acropolis and Acropolis Museum online ticket combination is here. All of these entrance tickets come with an audio guide.
Here are the best three Admission tickets to the Acropolis The first is a general entrance ticket with an audio guide that is an express skip-the-line electronic ticket (no exchanging of your ‘ticket’ for a ‘real’ paper ticket somewhere down the hill from the Acropolis).
The second is the best value in all of Greece: the Combo ticket to the Acropolis and up to 6 other historic sites, valid for 5 days. I get one of these every time I book for Athens!
The third is the “I don’t have much time” best-value ticket – express skip-the-line entrances to the Acropolis and the Acropolis Museum combined ticket.
Acropolis Self-Guided Tour Route 1
- Propylaea: This serves as the monumental gateway to the Acropolis.
- Temple of Athena Nike: Situated immediately to the right upon entering through the Propylaea.
- Parthenon: Proceed straight ahead to reach this iconic temple.
- Erechtheion: Located north of the Parthenon, notable for the Porch of the Caryatids.
- Odeon of Herodes Atticus: Descend towards the southern slope to find this ancient theater.
- Theater of Dionysus: Continue along the southern slope to visit this historic theater.
Acropolis Self-Guided Tour Route 2
- Theater of Dionysus: Begin your tour here, as it’s adjacent to the southeastern entrance.
- Odeon of Herodes Atticus: Ascend the path to encounter this structure next.
- Temple of Athena Nike: Upon reaching the summit, this temple is located near the Propylaea.
- Propylaea: Pass through this grand entrance to access the main plateau.
- Parthenon: Situated centrally on the Acropolis; proceed here next.
- Erechtheion: Conclude your visit with this temple, located near the Parthenon.
The Main Attractions of the Acropolis
1. Theatre of Dionysus
Dedicated to Dionysus, the god of wine and revelry, this is the world’s first theatre, with marble seating and a history dating back to the 6th century BC.
It is a cornerstone of Western civilization, where the art of drama was born and flourished. It hosted the works of legendary playwrights such as Aeschylus, Sophocles, and Euripides, laying the foundation for modern theater and storytelling.
The introduction of genres like tragedy and comedy emerged from this very stage, influencing literature, performance, and culture worldwide.
The theater was also the stage of the City Dionysia festival, where the first dramatic competitions were held.
If you only see one ancient theatre in your life, make it this one.
2. Odeon of Herodes Atticus
Built in 161 AD by Herodes Atticus in memory of his wife, this grand structure once boasted a cedar-wood roof and a three-story facade. Its acoustics and grandeur made it a cultural hub in ancient times.
Restored in 1950, it is again a cultural hub for Athens, hosting stars like Frank Sinatra and Florence and the Machine.
3. Propylaea
As the grand entrance to the Acropolis, the Propylaea was not only a fortified gateway but also a symbol of Athens’ power and glory.
According to legend, this site witnessed King Aegeus throwing himself to his death upon mistakenly believing his son Theseus had perished.
The mixture of Doric and Ionic styles also reflects the architectural transition of the time, showcasing the ingenuity of ancient Greek architects.
4. Temple of Athena Nike
Admire this small, elegant Ionic temple to your left. Dedicated to Athena as the bringer of victory, this temple once held a winged statue of the goddess Nike.
The temple’s parapet featured intricate reliefs, including the famous depiction of Nike adjusting her sandal.
Its prominent position on the bastion served as a constant reminder of Athens’ military successes and its divine protection.
5. Parthenon
The crown jewel of the Acropolis, the Parthenon is the symbol of democracy and Western civilization. This temple, dedicated to Athena Parthenos, housed a colossal statue of the goddess crafted by Phidias.
The Parthenon’s intricate friezes and pediments depict key myths, including the birth of Athena and the battle between the Lapiths and Centaurs, showcasing the artistic and cultural achievements of the Golden Age of Athens.
Many of the Parthenon’s decorative sculptures are now in the Acropolis Museum.
6. Erechtheion
Known for its Porch of the Caryatids, this temple marks the legendary battle between Athena and Poseidon. It may not look very exciting, but it is Myth Central for Ancient Greece!
This temple holds the scars of the legendary battle between Athena and Poseidon. Look for the hole in the roof, said to be caused by Poseidon’s trident during their epic contest.
Nearby, a sacred spring marks where Poseidon struck the ground, and the olive tree symbolizes Athena’s gift to the Athenians, securing her patronage of the city.
The Acropolis Museum
End your tour by visiting the Acropolis Museum just across Dionysiou Areopagitou Street.
The Acropolis Museum is the most visited museum in Greece. It houses original sculptures and artifacts from the Acropolis and its slopes and has an astonishing collection.
A combined ticket for the Acropolis and the museum saves time and money.
FAQs About Visiting the Acropolis
👗 What should I wear to the Acropolis? Wear comfortable shoes, as the terrain can be uneven and slippery. Lightweight clothing, sunscreen, and a hat are essential, especially during summer.
👶 Is the Acropolis stroller-friendly? While some parts of the Acropolis are accessible, the rocky terrain and steps make it challenging for strollers. Consider using a baby carrier for young children.
🚰 Can I bring water or food? Yes, you can bring water, but food is not allowed at the site. Water fountains are available near the entrances.
🌄 What is the best time to visit the Acropolis? Visit early in the morning or late in the afternoon to avoid crowds and heat, particularly in summer.
