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National Archaeological Museum Athens visitor guide: Tickets, hours & location

Explore Greece’s ancient legacy at the National Archaeological Museum

The National Archaeological Museum is one of the top archaeological museums in the world. With over 11,000 exhibits from prehistoric times to late antiquity, it’s the ultimate place to learn the story of Greek civilization. Read on to discover everything you need to know about how to plan your visit, from opening hours and directions to tips on what to see and when to go.

National Archaeological Museum opening hours

  • Summer (April 1 – October 31): Tuesday: 1pm-8pm Wednesday to Monday: 8am-8pm
  • Winter (November 1 – March 31): Tuesday: 1pm-8pm Wednesday to Monday: 8:30am-3:30pm
  • Closed on: January 1, March 25, May 1, Easter Sunday, December 25 & 26
  • Last admission: 30 minutes before closing

Best time to visit the National Archaeological Museum

Visitor observing ancient artifacts at Athens National Archaeological Museum.

Weekday vs weekend

  • Weekdays, especially mornings between 8am and 11am, are the best time to visit. You’ll avoid large groups and enjoy a quieter, more immersive experience. Tuesday afternoons are also ideal, as the museum opens later and sees fewer visitors.
  • On weekends, expect a higher number of tourists and school groups, especially in the afternoons. Arrive at opening time on Saturdays or Sundays if you want to beat the rush and explore at your own pace.
Visitor using audio guide at National Archaeological Museum, viewing ancient Greek pottery.

Season-wise guide

  • Spring (April–May): Ideal time with mild temperatures, blooming gardens, and fewer crowds before the summer.
  • Summer (June–August): Peak tourist season. Visit early in the day to avoid heat and long lines.
  • Autumn (September–October): Excellent season for a visit—fewer tourists, pleasant weather, and quieter galleries.
  • Winter (November–March): Low season with reduced ticket prices and minimal crowds. The shorter hours make early visits more efficient.

Where is the National Archaeological Museum located?

The National Archaeological Museum is located at 44 Patission (28is Oktovriou) Street, in the Exarcheia neighborhood of central Athens. It is situated between Victoria and Omonia Squares, surrounded by neoclassical university buildings and residential streets. The museum is close to several major landmarks, including the National Technical University and Strefi Hill. It’s about a 20-minute walk from Syntagma Square and a 10-minute walk from Omonia metro station.

How to get to the National Archaeological Museum

Athens metro station with passengers boarding a train, showcasing modern architecture.

By metro

  • Take Metro Line 1 (Green Line) to Victoria Station – about a 7-minute walk from the museum.
  • Metro Line 2 (Red Line) stops at Omonia Station, a 10-minute walk away. Both lines connect with Syntagma and Monastiraki stations.
Minivans parked near the Acropolis in Athens for airport transfer service.

By car

Driving in Athens is not recommended due to traffic and limited parking. However, if needed, these garages are nearby:

  • Polis Park Omonia (7 min walk) 
  • Parking Kallidromiou 39 (9 min walk)
  • Park Around Exarchia (6 min walk)
Bus interior with passengers

By bus

Buses 224, 608, A7, and 622 stop at Polytechneio or Museio, right next to the museum entrance.

Yellow taxi driving on a road with scenic views

By taxi

Taxis are affordable in Athens. Just ask for “Ethniko Archaiologiko Mouseio” and most drivers will take you directly to the front entrance.

Visitors usinf trolley bus in Athens

By trolley bus

Lines 2, 3, 5, 11, and 15 stop near the museum on Patission Street.

Things to know before you visit the National Archaeological Museum

Cloakroom service area with storage lockers at a tourist attraction.
  • A free cloakroom is available for small bags, umbrellas, and backpacks.
  • Restrooms are available on each floor and are well-maintained.
  • A museum shop offers books, gifts, and official replicas.
  • Free Wi-Fi is available throughout the museum.
  • Photography is allowed without flash, and tripods are not permitted.
Girl in a wheelchair holding a smartphone on a city sidewalk.
  • The museum is fully wheelchair accessible with ramps and elevators.
  • Wheelchairs are available for loan at the entrance.
  • Accessible restrooms and seating areas are located on all levels.
  • Guide dogs and assistance animals are welcome.
Statue of the Farnese Bull at Naples National Archaeological Museum.
  • Children under 5 years enter for free.
  • The museum allows strollers and offers wide hallways for easy movement.
  • Baby-changing facilities are available in restrooms.
  • A free family-friendly map is available at the information desk.
  • Sections like the Egyptian Collection and Cycladic figurines often capture children's attention.
No eating or drinking sign at NAM, Athens
  • No eating or drinking inside exhibition areas.
  • No flash photography or video recording without permission.
  • Large bags must be checked in at the cloakroom.
  • Keep mobile phones on silent mode.
Mount Lycabettus view of Athens cityscape during New Year celebrations.
  • Epigraphic Museum – Located within the same complex. Free with your museum ticket.
  • National Library of Greece – Historic library 15 mins away on foot.
  • Mount Lycabettus – Hike or take a cable car for panoramic views.
  • National Garden of Athens – A peaceful spot for a stroll, near Syntagma Square.
National Archaeological Museum facade with visitors and pigeons in Athens, Greece.
  • There is one main public entrance at 44 Patission Street, up a wide staircase through a neoclassical columned façade. 
  • A ramp is available to the right for wheelchair access and visitors with limited mobility.
Tourists wearing comfortable shoes
  • Visit early in the day (around 8am) to avoid crowds and heat.
  • Wear comfortable shoes; the museum covers several large halls and multiple floors.
  • Spend at least 2 to 3 hours inside to cover the major sections without rushing.
  • Download the museum floor plan from the official website or pick up a paper map at the entrance.
  • Combine your visit with a stop at the Epigraphic Museum, which is free and less crowded.

What’s inside the National Archaeological Museum

Gold funerary mask at the National Archaeological Museum, Athens.

Prehistoric Collection

Features Neolithic artifacts, Cycladic marble figurines, and Mycenaean treasures like the golden Mask of Agamemnon.

Visitor with audio guide admiring a classical statue at the National Archaeological Museum.
Ancient Egyptian artifacts including statues and hieroglyphs in a museum exhibit.
Visitor exploring ancient artifacts at the National Archaeological Museum.
Numismatic Collection at NAM Athens

Frequently asked questions about visiting the National Archaeological Museum 

Where is the National Archaeological Museum located?

It is at 44 Patission Street in central Athens, close to Omonia Square and Exarcheia.

How much does it cost to visit the museum?

General admission is €12 (April–Oct) and €6 (Nov–Mar). Reduced tickets and free entry options are available.

Is the museum wheelchair accessible?

Yes, fully accessible with elevators and accessible restrooms.

What’s the best time of day to visit the museum to avoid crowds?

Mornings right after opening (especially weekdays) are the quietest. Afternoons tend to be busier, particularly during the summer season.

Is photography allowed inside the museum?

Non-flash photography is permitted for personal use. Tripods, flash, and professional gear require special permission.

Are bags or backpacks allowed inside?

Large bags and backpacks must be left at the cloakroom. Small handbags are usually allowed, but security checks are in place.

Can I re-enter the museum on the same ticket?

Generally, re-entry is not permitted once you exit. Plan your visit accordingly if you’re not on a guided tour.