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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.

Everything you need to know for National Archaeological Museum

Where & when to go?

Navigating the National Archaeological Museum

The National Archaeological Museum is arranged across a series of galleries showcasing the history of ancient Greece from prehistory to late antiquity. The collections are organized by theme and chronology, allowing visitors to explore major civilizations, artistic developments, and archaeological discoveries at their own pace.

What’s inside the National Archaeological Museum

Striped ceramic figurine holding a bowl, National Archaeological Museum, Athens.
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Prehistoric Collection

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

Sculpture Collection

Spans from the 7th century BC to Roman times, including masterpieces like the Artemision Bronze, Ephebe of Marathon, and the Kouros statues.

Egyptian Collection

Mummies, sarcophagi, and daily-life objects from Pharaonic Egypt, showcasing connections between Greece and ancient Egypt.

Vases and Minor Arts

Black- and red-figure pottery depicting mythological and domestic scenes, along with delicate metalwork and figurines.

Numismatic Collection

Rare coins and medals from the Classical, Hellenistic, and Roman periods.

Which National Archaeological Museum ticket is best for you?

Ticket typeWhat's includedBest forBook now

National Archaeological Museum entry ticket + audio guide

Skip-the-line entry to the National Archaeological Museum + multilingual audio guide

A self-paced visit with added context on the museum's most important artifacts and galleries

Book now

National Archaeological Museum Guided tour

Museum entry + expert English-speaking guide + guided tour of the highlights collection

A structured experience with expert insights into Greece's most significant archaeological treasures

Book now

Combo: Acropolis Museum + National Archaeological Museum

Entry to both museums, access to permanent collections

Exploring Athens' top museum collections in one booking while gaining a deeper understanding of ancient Greek history

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Multipass: Acropolis & 5 Archaeological Sites + National Archaeological Museum

Entry to the Acropolis, Parthenon, Ancient Agora, Temple of Olympian Zeus, and other archaeological sites, plus entry to the National Archaeological Museum

Visitors who want to combine Athens' most iconic archaeological landmarks with Greece's largest collection of antiquities

Book now

Facilities & accessibility

Rules and restrictions

What you need to know

  • Visitors must enter on the date and time shown on their ticket and may be asked to wait outside during busy periods.
  • Online ticket holders benefit from priority access through the museum entrance.
  • Large items exceeding 30 × 30 × 15 cm, luggage, backpacks, and sports equipment must be left in the cloakroom before entering.
  • Ticket sales end 30 minutes before closing, and visitors are requested to begin leaving 20 minutes before closing time.

Not allowed

  • Food and drinks consumption is only permitted in designated museum areas.
  • Pets are not allowed, except certified guide dogs accompanying visitors with disabilities.
  • Smoking, electronic cigarettes, and vaping are prohibited throughout the museum.
  • Dangerous items such as weapons, hazardous objects, and items that may affect visitor safety or public health are not permitted.
  • Flash photography: Flash photography is not allowed inside the museum galleries.
  • Restricted photography equipment: Tripods, professional filming equipment, and video recording require prior permission from the museum.
  • Mobile phone use: Phones should be kept on silent mode and their use minimized in exhibition areas.

Good to know

  • Personal photography without flash is permitted unless an exhibit is specifically marked with photography restrictions.
  • Visitors can connect to the museum's Wi-Fi network during their visit.

Practical tips

  • Visit early: Arriving soon after opening time generally offers a quieter experience and more space to explore the galleries.
  • Wear comfortable shoes: The museum spans multiple exhibition halls and levels, so expect a fair amount of walking during your visit.
  • Allow enough time: Set aside at least 2–3 hours to explore the major collections without rushing through the galleries.
  • Use a museum map: Download the floor plan before your visit or pick up a map at the Information Desk to help navigate the collections efficiently.
  • Other attractions: Combine your visit with the Acropolis Museum to gain a broader understanding of ancient Greek history, from archaeological discoveries to artifacts found on the Acropolis. Explore the Athens 2-in-1 museum combo ticket.

Must-visit landmarks near the National Archaeological Museum

Eat & stay near National Archaeological Museum

Frequently asked questions about visiting the National Archaeological Museum 

It is at 44 Patission Street in central Athens, close to Omonia Square and Exarcheia. Plan your route with our National Archaeological Museum directions guide.