Inside the National Archaeological Museum Athens

Top highlights at the National Archaeological Museum Athens

Gold funerary mask at the National Archaeological Museum, Athens.

Mask of Agamemnon

This gold funerary mask, unearthed in a royal Mycenaean tomb at Mycenae by Heinrich Schliemann, is one of the most famous archaeological finds in Greece. It is a powerful symbol of Mycenaean craftsmanship and early Greek culture.

Antikythera mechanism

Recovered from a shipwreck off the island of Antikythera, this 2nd-century BC device is widely considered the world’s first analog computer. Used to track astronomical positions, eclipses, and the calendar, the mechanism reflects the mechanical knowledge of its time.

Boxers Fresco from Akrotiri displayed at Athens National Archaeological Museum.

Thera wall paintings

These vivid frescoes from the Bronze Age city of Akrotiri (on Santorini) were preserved in volcanic ash after the island’s catastrophic eruption. They depict colorful scenes of nature, rituals, and daily life, offering rare insights into Aegean culture in the 17th century BC.

Sculpture of Artemision Bronze displayed in National Archaeological Museum of Athens.

Bronze statue of Zeus or Poseidon

This life-sized bronze figure was found in the sea off Cape Artemision. The exact identity is debated—it may be Zeus hurling a thunderbolt or Poseidon with a trident—but the pose, musculature, and dramatic energy make it one of the finest examples of Classical Greek sculpture.

Horse and Jockey statue at Athens National Archaeological Museum, Greece.

Horse and jockey of Artemision

Discovered in the same shipwreck as the Artemision bronze, this remarkable Hellenistic sculpture captures a galloping horse with a young boy riding bareback.

Visitors viewing ancient Greek statues at Athens National Archaeological Museum.

Kore and kouros statues

These statues of a young maiden (kore) and youth (kouros) come from the Archaic period and were typically used as grave markers or temple offerings.

National Archaeological Museum Athens metalworks collection display.

Mycenaean collection

In addition to the Mask of Agamemnon, the museum holds a vast array of gold jewelry, engraved weapons, ceremonial vessels, and wall reliefs from Mycenaean tombs. This collection sheds light on the complex social structures and burial rituals of the Mycenaean elite.

Visitors exploring exhibits at Athens National Archaeological Museum.

Cycladic figurines

These abstract marble figures from the Cycladic islands predate Classical Greece by nearly two millennia. Their minimalist form, typically folded-arm female figures, has inspired countless modern artists and offers insight into early Aegean religion and burial customs.

Marble Sphinx statue at National Archaeological Museum, Athens.

Egyptian antiquities

This section includes mummies, painted coffins, statues of deities, and amulets from dynastic Egypt. The museum’s Egyptian collection is one of the most significant in Southern Europe and explores connections between Greek and Egyptian cultures during antiquity.

The National Archaeological Museum Collections

National Archaeological Museum in Athens showcasing ancient Greek artifacts and sculptures.

Metalwork and jewelry

This section presents finely crafted weapons, armor, and decorative items. You’ll see bronze helmets worn by hoplite warriors, silver vessels used in elite households, and intricate gold wreaths used in ceremonial or funerary contexts.

Roman period collection

The Roman-era rooms feature marble statues, portraits, and mosaics, showcasing how Roman patrons adopted and adapted Greek artistic traditions. Many of the works are Roman copies of earlier Greek masterpieces, giving visitors a unique chance to see how Greek styles lived on during the empire.

Ancient Greek stone inscription detailing historical decrees.

Epigraphic Museum

Located in the same complex, this museum holds over 14,000 inscriptions, ranging from legal decrees and public records to epitaphs and dedications. It provides a fascinating look into the administrative, religious, and civic life of ancient Greece.

Frequently asked questions about museum highlights

What is the most famous artifact in the National Archaeological Museum of Athens?

The Mask of Agamemnon is widely considered the museum’s most iconic artifact due to its age, beauty, and historical significance.

What is the Antikythera Mechanism and why is it important?

It is a 2nd-century BC device used for astronomical calculations, considered the world’s first analog computer.

Can I see the wall paintings from Santorini at this museum?

Yes, the museum houses several well-preserved Thera frescoes from the ancient city of Akrotiri.

What can I find in the Mycenaean collection apart from the Mask of Agamemnon?

You’ll see gold diadems, ceremonial cups, bronze swords, and carved stone seals from royal tombs.

How large is the Egyptian collection?

It’s one of the largest Egyptian collections in Greece, featuring over 1,000 artifacts, including sarcophagi, statues, and everyday items.

What is the best time to view the highlights with fewer crowds?

Visit early in the morning on weekdays, especially Tuesdays after 1pm when the museum opens later and is less busy.

Can I take photos of the museum highlights?

Yes, non-flash photography is allowed throughout the museum. However, tripods and video recording are not permitted.

Is there a specific floor or wing for the famous sculptures?

Most major sculptures, including the Artemision bronzes and kouroi, are located on the ground floor in the Sculpture Collection.

How long should I spend seeing the highlights properly?

Plan to visit for at least 2 to 3 hours to comfortably view the main galleries and major works.

Get deep insights into ancient Greek artifacts with an audio guide.

Everything you’ll get: Entry to the National Archaeological Museum of Athens, an English audio guide, an offline map, and narrated content in your selected language.
Why choose this: Explore one of the world’s finest ancient Greek collections with a self-paced, audio-guided visit. The narration offers expert insights into iconic pieces like the Mask of Agamemnon, the Antikythera mechanism, and marble statues of gods, athletes, and heroes.

Inclusions

Entry to the National Archaeological Museum
Self-guided smartphone (Android or iOS) audio tour in English
Access to all permanent exhibitions
Access to the Hellenic Heritage Museum shop
Offline content (text, audio narration, maps)

Exclusions

Live guide

Smartphone or headphones
Food and drinks
Transportation

This experience is wheelchair and pram/stroller accessible.
Due to venue restrictions, pets cannot tag along for this experience.
Your guide dogs are welcome at the venue.
Don’t forget your trusty earphones for an immersive audio guide experience.
The following categories of visitors are eligible for free entry on presenting a valid ID card or passport:
- Individuals up to the age of 25, from EU member states.
- Children up to the age of 5, from non-EU countries.
- Persons over 25 in secondary education (evening & second-chance schools) and vocational schools from EU member-states & countries of the EEA, upon presentation of an attendance certificate bearing evidence of its duration.
- Accompanying teachers and learners during educational visits to schools and institutions of primary, secondary, and tertiary education from EU member states and countries of the EEA.
- People entitled to Social Solidarity Income and members dependent on them, upon presentation of their ID card and certificate of free entry based on eligibility for the program.

These tickets can't be cancelled or rescheduled.

Visit the largest archaeological museum in Greece with entry and a multilingual audio guide.
Bypass long queues to explore the National Archaeological Museum of Athens, considered one of the greatest museums in the world.
Admire a rich collection of Greek antiquities and learn about their artistic, historical and cultural value to the Greek society.
See some of the greatest antiquities collections in the world, including the gold death mask of Agamemnon, the ancient bronze statue of Zeus or Poseidon, and the Sphinx statue.
Download the app and audio guide on your smartphone before your visit. Put on your headphones (not included in the ticket) to enjoy an immersive storytelling experience as you look at the splendid artifacts.
Use the audio guide as many times as you want, and at any time before or after your visit. It is available in English, French, Italian, German, and Spanish.

Inclusions

Entry to National Archaeological Museum of Athens
Audio guide in English, Greek, German, Spanish, French, and Italian
Offline content - text, audio narration and maps

Exclusions

Live guide

Smartphone or headphones
Transportation

This attraction is wheelchair accessible.
Guide dogs are allowed into the attraction.
This ticket includes all parts of the attraction.
Photography is allowed (no flash and tripod).
WiFi and cloakroom facilities are available at the attraction.
The audio guide is available on Android and iOS.
Download the ticket and audio tour while on WIFI before your visit as your, mobile signal may be weak at the site.
After booking, check your email (including spam) for instructions on accessing and downloading your audio tour. Make sure your smartphone is fully charged.
Expect possible long queues at the entrance, so you may need to wait.

These tickets can't be cancelled or rescheduled.

Explore Athens' iconic Acropolis and its top museum with one value-packed combo.

Everything you get: Access the Acropolis, including the Parthenon, Odeon of Herodes Atticus, and Temple of Athena Nike, plus skip-the-line entry to the National Archaeological Museum. Audio guides at both sites enrich your self-paced visit with historical context.
Why choose this: Save money and skip lines while exploring two must-see Athens attractions with audio guides.

Inclusions Acropolis & Parthenon

Access to Acropolis & Parthenon
Access to Odeon of Herodes Atticus
Access to Theatre of Dionysus Eleuthereus
Athens City & Plaka audio guide in Dutch, English, French, German, Italian, Portuguese, Spanish

Athens National Archaeological Museum

Entry to Athens National Archaeological Museum
Plaka audio guide
Entry to the National Archaeological Museum

Acropolis & Parthenon

Tip: Check out the 'olive tree of Athena' near the Erechtheion. It was supposedly planted by the goddess herself.
This experience is accessible by wheelchair and pram/strollers with the availability of additional routes and facilities.
The audio tours are not compatible with Windows Phones, iPhone 5/5C or older, iPod Touch 5th generation or older, iPad 4th generation or older, iPad Mini 1st generation.
The app and audio guides require around 200-250 MB of space on your device.
Due to Greek Orthodox Good Friday observances, archaeological sites will have adjusted opening hours. Specifically, on Good Friday (3rd May 2024), sites will be open from noon until 6:00 pm. Orthodox Holy Saturday (4th May 2024) hours will be from 8:00 am to 3:00 pm.
The Acropolis Museum offers free admission on March 6 (Melina Mercouri Day), March 25 (National Holiday), May 18 (International Day of Museums), and October 28 (National Holiday).

Athens National Archaeological Museum

Keep an eye out for the ‘Dipylon Amphora’ a Geometric Period funerary vase considered one of the most significant artifacts in the museum.
Shutterbugs, take note: Flash photography is a no-go inside the venue.
Due to venue restrictions, pets cannot tag along for this experience.
This experience is wheelchair and pram/stroller accessible.
Your guide dogs are welcome at the venue.
For people with disabilities, there is a separate entrance on the side of Vas. Herakleiou Street, accessed either by a ramp from the main view of the Museum or directly from the pavement of Vas. Herakleiou.

These tickets can't be cancelled or rescheduled.

Save time and money with this combo pass that gives you access to the Acropolis, 5 other archaeological sites, and the Athens National Archaeological Museum.
Delve into the heart of Greek history with this multipass, exploring iconic structures like the UNESCO-listed Acropolis and the grand Ancient Agora.
Benefit from time-slotted entry to Acropolis Hill and enjoy an optional multilingual audio guide for Plaka and Ancient Agora in 5 languages.
Explore the Athens National Archaeological Museum, and find the largest collection of Greek antiquities spread across 5,000 years.
Opt for the audio guide at the museum to gain valuable insights into Greek history, with captivating stories of its artifacts like the golden Mask of Agamemnon.

Inclusions Acropolis

Timed entry to Acropolis Hill
Entry to 6 archaeological sites: Acropolis and Slopes, Ancient Agora, Roman Agora, Temple of Zeus, Aristotle's School (Lykeion), and Panathenaic Stadium
Audio guide for Plaka and Ancient Agora
Audio guide for all sites in English, French, German, Italian & Spanish (optional)

Athens National Archaeological Museum

Entry to the Athens National Archaeological Museum
Audio guide app
Plaka audio guide (optional)

These tickets can't be cancelled or rescheduled.

Get deep insights into ancient Greek artifacts with an audio guide.

Everything you’ll get: Entry to the National Archaeological Museum of Athens, an English audio guide, an offline map, and narrated content in your selected language.
Why choose this: Explore one of the world’s finest ancient Greek collections with a self-paced, audio-guided visit. The narration offers expert insights into iconic pieces like the Mask of Agamemnon, the Antikythera mechanism, and marble statues of gods, athletes, and heroes.

Inclusions

Entry to the National Archaeological Museum
Self-guided smartphone (Android or iOS) audio tour in English
Access to all permanent exhibitions
Access to the Hellenic Heritage Museum shop
Offline content (text, audio narration, maps)

Exclusions

Live guide

Smartphone or headphones
Food and drinks
Transportation

This experience is wheelchair and pram/stroller accessible.
Due to venue restrictions, pets cannot tag along for this experience.
Your guide dogs are welcome at the venue.
Don’t forget your trusty earphones for an immersive audio guide experience.
The following categories of visitors are eligible for free entry on presenting a valid ID card or passport:
- Individuals up to the age of 25, from EU member states.
- Children up to the age of 5, from non-EU countries.
- Persons over 25 in secondary education (evening & second-chance schools) and vocational schools from EU member-states & countries of the EEA, upon presentation of an attendance certificate bearing evidence of its duration.
- Accompanying teachers and learners during educational visits to schools and institutions of primary, secondary, and tertiary education from EU member states and countries of the EEA.
- People entitled to Social Solidarity Income and members dependent on them, upon presentation of their ID card and certificate of free entry based on eligibility for the program.

These tickets can't be cancelled or rescheduled.

Visit the largest archaeological museum in Greece with entry and a multilingual audio guide.
Bypass long queues to explore the National Archaeological Museum of Athens, considered one of the greatest museums in the world.
Admire a rich collection of Greek antiquities and learn about their artistic, historical and cultural value to the Greek society.
See some of the greatest antiquities collections in the world, including the gold death mask of Agamemnon, the ancient bronze statue of Zeus or Poseidon, and the Sphinx statue.
Download the app and audio guide on your smartphone before your visit. Put on your headphones (not included in the ticket) to enjoy an immersive storytelling experience as you look at the splendid artifacts.
Use the audio guide as many times as you want, and at any time before or after your visit. It is available in English, French, Italian, German, and Spanish.

Inclusions

Entry to National Archaeological Museum of Athens
Audio guide in English, Greek, German, Spanish, French, and Italian
Offline content - text, audio narration and maps

Exclusions

Live guide

Smartphone or headphones
Transportation

This attraction is wheelchair accessible.
Guide dogs are allowed into the attraction.
This ticket includes all parts of the attraction.
Photography is allowed (no flash and tripod).
WiFi and cloakroom facilities are available at the attraction.
The audio guide is available on Android and iOS.
Download the ticket and audio tour while on WIFI before your visit as your, mobile signal may be weak at the site.
After booking, check your email (including spam) for instructions on accessing and downloading your audio tour. Make sure your smartphone is fully charged.
Expect possible long queues at the entrance, so you may need to wait.

These tickets can't be cancelled or rescheduled.

Explore Athens' iconic Acropolis and its top museum with one value-packed combo.

Everything you get: Access the Acropolis, including the Parthenon, Odeon of Herodes Atticus, and Temple of Athena Nike, plus skip-the-line entry to the National Archaeological Museum. Audio guides at both sites enrich your self-paced visit with historical context.
Why choose this: Save money and skip lines while exploring two must-see Athens attractions with audio guides.

Inclusions Acropolis & Parthenon

Access to Acropolis & Parthenon
Access to Odeon of Herodes Atticus
Access to Theatre of Dionysus Eleuthereus
Athens City & Plaka audio guide in Dutch, English, French, German, Italian, Portuguese, Spanish

Athens National Archaeological Museum

Entry to Athens National Archaeological Museum
Plaka audio guide
Entry to the National Archaeological Museum

Acropolis & Parthenon

Tip: Check out the 'olive tree of Athena' near the Erechtheion. It was supposedly planted by the goddess herself.
This experience is accessible by wheelchair and pram/strollers with the availability of additional routes and facilities.
The audio tours are not compatible with Windows Phones, iPhone 5/5C or older, iPod Touch 5th generation or older, iPad 4th generation or older, iPad Mini 1st generation.
The app and audio guides require around 200-250 MB of space on your device.
Due to Greek Orthodox Good Friday observances, archaeological sites will have adjusted opening hours. Specifically, on Good Friday (3rd May 2024), sites will be open from noon until 6:00 pm. Orthodox Holy Saturday (4th May 2024) hours will be from 8:00 am to 3:00 pm.
The Acropolis Museum offers free admission on March 6 (Melina Mercouri Day), March 25 (National Holiday), May 18 (International Day of Museums), and October 28 (National Holiday).

Athens National Archaeological Museum

Keep an eye out for the ‘Dipylon Amphora’ a Geometric Period funerary vase considered one of the most significant artifacts in the museum.
Shutterbugs, take note: Flash photography is a no-go inside the venue.
Due to venue restrictions, pets cannot tag along for this experience.
This experience is wheelchair and pram/stroller accessible.
Your guide dogs are welcome at the venue.
For people with disabilities, there is a separate entrance on the side of Vas. Herakleiou Street, accessed either by a ramp from the main view of the Museum or directly from the pavement of Vas. Herakleiou.

These tickets can't be cancelled or rescheduled.

Save time and money with this combo pass that gives you access to the Acropolis, 5 other archaeological sites, and the Athens National Archaeological Museum.
Delve into the heart of Greek history with this multipass, exploring iconic structures like the UNESCO-listed Acropolis and the grand Ancient Agora.
Benefit from time-slotted entry to Acropolis Hill and enjoy an optional multilingual audio guide for Plaka and Ancient Agora in 5 languages.
Explore the Athens National Archaeological Museum, and find the largest collection of Greek antiquities spread across 5,000 years.
Opt for the audio guide at the museum to gain valuable insights into Greek history, with captivating stories of its artifacts like the golden Mask of Agamemnon.

Inclusions Acropolis

Timed entry to Acropolis Hill
Entry to 6 archaeological sites: Acropolis and Slopes, Ancient Agora, Roman Agora, Temple of Zeus, Aristotle's School (Lykeion), and Panathenaic Stadium
Audio guide for Plaka and Ancient Agora
Audio guide for all sites in English, French, German, Italian & Spanish (optional)

Athens National Archaeological Museum

Entry to the Athens National Archaeological Museum
Audio guide app
Plaka audio guide (optional)

These tickets can't be cancelled or rescheduled.

Tickets

NaN

Athens: National Archaeological Museum Ticket with Audio Guide

Get deep insights into ancient Greek artifacts with an audio guide.

Everything you’ll get: Entry to the National Archaeological Museum of Athens, an English audio guide, an offline map, and narrated content in your selected language.
Why choose this: Explore one of the world’s finest ancient Greek collections with a self-paced, audio-guided visit. The narration offers expert insights into iconic pieces like the Mask of Agamemnon, the Antikythera mechanism, and marble statues of gods, athletes, and heroes.

‌

Check availability

Flexible duration

Audio guide

Tickets

NaN

National Archaeological Museum Entry with Multilingual Audio Guide

Visit the largest archaeological museum in Greece with entry and a multilingual audio guide.
Bypass long queues to explore the National Archaeological Museum of Athens, considered one of the greatest museums in the world.
Admire a rich collection of Greek antiquities and learn about their artistic, historical and cultural value to the Greek society.
See some of the greatest antiquities collections in the world, including the gold death mask of Agamemnon, the ancient bronze statue of Zeus or Poseidon, and the Sphinx statue.
Download the app and audio guide on your smartphone before your visit. Put on your headphones (not included in the ticket) to enjoy an immersive storytelling experience as you look at the splendid artifacts.
Use the audio guide as many times as you want, and at any time before or after your visit. It is available in English, French, Italian, German, and Spanish.

‌

Check availability

Flexible duration

Audio guide

Combos

NaN

Combo (Save 5%): Acropolis & Parthenon + Athens National Archaeological Museum Tickets

Explore Athens' iconic Acropolis and its top museum with one value-packed combo.

Everything you get: Access the Acropolis, including the Parthenon, Odeon of Herodes Atticus, and Temple of Athena Nike, plus skip-the-line entry to the National Archaeological Museum. Audio guides at both sites enrich your self-paced visit with historical context.
Why choose this: Save money and skip lines while exploring two must-see Athens attractions with audio guides.

‌

Check availability

Audio guide

Combos

NaN

Combo (Save 5%): Acropolis & 5 Archaeological Sites Multipass Tickets + Athens National Archaeological Museum Ticket

Save time and money with this combo pass that gives you access to the Acropolis, 5 other archaeological sites, and the Athens National Archaeological Museum.
Delve into the heart of Greek history with this multipass, exploring iconic structures like the UNESCO-listed Acropolis and the grand Ancient Agora.
Benefit from time-slotted entry to Acropolis Hill and enjoy an optional multilingual audio guide for Plaka and Ancient Agora in 5 languages.
Explore the Athens National Archaeological Museum, and find the largest collection of Greek antiquities spread across 5,000 years.
Opt for the audio guide at the museum to gain valuable insights into Greek history, with captivating stories of its artifacts like the golden Mask of Agamemnon.

‌

Check availability

Audio guide

National Archaeological Museum Athens Highlights: Iconic artifacts & contemporary exhibitions