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10 Best Museums in Athens – Top Must-Visit Museums in Athens, Greece (2024)

Nomad Reveals August 27, 2024
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Athens, the historic capital of Greece, is a city steeped in ancient history and culture. From ancient artifacts to contemporary art, Athens’ museums offer a wide array of experiences that reflect the city’s rich heritage. Whether you’re fascinated by ancient Greek history or modern art, there’s something for everyone. Here’s a guide to the 10 best museums in Athens, each providing a unique glimpse into the city’s past and present.

1. Acropolis Museum – Ancient Treasures Unveiled

Location: Dionysiou Areopagitou 15, Athina 117 42, Greece

Google Rating: 4.7/5

Overview:

The Acropolis Museum is a must-visit for anyone interested in ancient Greek history. Located at the foot of the Acropolis, the museum houses an extensive collection of artifacts from the Acropolis site, including the famous Parthenon marbles. The museum’s modern architecture beautifully complements the ancient treasures it displays, offering a perfect blend of old and new.

2. National Archaeological Museum – Greece’s Rich Heritage

Location: 28is Oktovriou 44, Athina 106 82, Greece

Google Rating: 4.6/5

Overview:

  • Price Range: €12 (reduced to €6 during winter)
  • Link to the Exhibitions: National Archaeological Museum Exhibitions
  • Tickets: National Archaeological Museum Entry Ticket with Optional Audio Guide
  • Opening Hours:
    • Monday 8:30 AM–3:30 PM
    • Tuesday 1–8 PM
    • Wednesday 8:30 AM–3:30 PM
    • Thursday 8:30 AM–3:30 PM
    • Friday 8:30 AM–3:30 PM
    • Saturday 8:30 AM–3:30 PM
    • Sunday 8:30 AM–3:30 PM
  • Average Visit Length: 2–4 hours
  • Family Facilities: Baby changing stations, accessible toilets, lockers, cafe
  • Age Suitability: Best for ages 10 and up
  • Educational Value: Showcases Greece’s extensive history from prehistoric times to late antiquity, with a world-renowned collection of sculptures, pottery, and artifacts.
  • Contact Details: +30 213 214 4800
  • Map: National Archaeological Museum on Google Map

The National Archaeological Museum is one of the most important museums in the world, housing a vast collection of Greek antiquities. The museum’s exhibits cover a wide range of periods, from the Neolithic era to the Roman period, offering a comprehensive overview of Greek history and culture. Highlights include the Mask of Agamemnon and the Antikythera mechanism.

3. Benaki Museum – A Journey Through Greek History

Location: Koumpari 1, Athina 106 74, Greece

Google Rating: 4.7/5

Overview:

  • Price Range: €12 / €6 (reduced during winter)
  • Link to the Exhibitions: Benaki Museum Exhibitions
  • Tickets: Benaki Museums Admission Tickets
  • Opening Hours:
    • Monday 10 AM–6 PM
    • Tuesday Closed
    • Wednesday 10 AM–6 PM
    • Thursday 10 AM–11:30 PM
    • Friday 10 AM–6 PM
    • Saturday 10 AM–6 PM
    • Sunday 10 AM–4 PM
  • Average Visit Length: 2–3 hours
  • Family Facilities: Baby changing stations, accessible toilets, cafe
  • Age Suitability: Best for ages 8 and up
  • Educational Value: Offers a broad view of Greek history, art, and culture from prehistoric times to the modern era, with collections that include Byzantine art, Islamic art, and neoclassical Greek art.
  • Contact Details: +30 210 367 1000
  • Map: Benaki Museum on Google Map

The Benaki Museum is one of the most comprehensive museums in Athens, featuring collections that span Greek history from prehistoric to modern times. The museum’s diverse exhibits include ancient artifacts, Byzantine art, Islamic art, and more, making it an essential stop for anyone interested in the full spectrum of Greek history and culture.

4. Museum of Cycladic Art – Art of the Aegean

Location: Neofitou Douka 4, Athina 106 74, Greece

Google Rating: 4.7/5

Overview:

  • Price Range: €7 / €3.50 (reduced during winter)
  • Link to the Exhibitions: Museum of Cycladic Art Exhibitions
  • Tickets: Museum of Cycladic Art Entry Ticket
  • Opening Hours:
    • Monday 10 AM–5 PM
    • Tuesday Closed
    • Wednesday 10 AM–5 PM
    • Thursday 10 AM–8 PM
    • Friday 10 AM–5 PM
    • Saturday 10 AM–5 PM
    • Sunday 11 AM–5 PM
  • Average Visit Length: 1.5–2 hours
  • Family Facilities: Accessible toilets, N/A for baby changing stations, cafe
  • Age Suitability: Best for ages 8 and up
  • Educational Value: Focuses on the art and culture of the Cycladic Islands, particularly the famous marble figurines, as well as ancient Aegean and Cypriot cultures.
  • Contact Details: +30 210 722 8321
  • Map: Museum of Cycladic Art on Google Map

The Museum of Cycladic Art is dedicated to the ancient cultures of the Aegean and Cyprus, with a special focus on Cycladic art. The museum’s collection includes the famous Cycladic marble figurines, as well as pottery, metalwork, and other artifacts that provide insight into the life and beliefs of these early cultures. It’s a must-visit for anyone interested in ancient art.

5. Byzantine and Christian Museum – Religious Art and History

Location: Leof. Vasilissis Sofias 22, Athina 106 75, Greece

Google Rating: 4.6/5

Overview:

  • Price Range: Admission Fee:
    • 4 Euros (from November 1st until March 31st)
    • 8 Euros (from April 1st until October 31st)
  • Link to the Exhibitions: Byzantine and Christian Museum Exhibitions
  • Tickets: No digital tickets available
  • Opening Hours:
    • Monday 9 AM–4 PM
    • Tuesday Closed
    • Wednesday 9 AM–4 PM
    • Thursday 9 AM–4 PM
    • Friday 9 AM–4 PM
    • Saturday 9 AM–4 PM
    • Sunday 9 AM–4 PM
  • Average Visit Length: 1.5–2.5 hours
  • Family Facilities: Accessible toilets, N/A for baby changing stations, cafe
  • Age Suitability: Best for ages 10 and up
  • Educational Value: Explores the history of the Byzantine Empire and its impact on Christian art and culture, with a rich collection of icons, mosaics, and manuscripts.
  • Contact Details: +30 213 213 9572
  • Map: Byzantine and Christian Museum on Google Map

The Byzantine and Christian Museum in Athens is a treasure trove of religious art and artifacts from the Byzantine period. The museum’s collection includes impressive icons, frescoes, and mosaics, offering visitors a deep insight into the Byzantine Empire’s influence on Christianity and art. It’s an essential visit for those interested in the religious history of Greece.

6. The Hellenic Motor Museum – A Drive Through Automotive History

Location: Ioulianou 33, Athina 104 33, Greece

Google Rating: 4.7/5

Overview:

  • Price Range: €8
  • Link to the Exhibitions: Hellenic Motor Museum Exhibitions
  • Tickets: Hellenic Motor Museum Entrance Ticket
  • Opening Hours:
    • Monday Closed
    • Tuesday 10 AM–4 PM
    • Wednesday 10 AM–4 PM
    • Thursday 10 AM–4 PM
    • Friday 10 AM–4 PM
    • Saturday 11 AM–6 PM
    • Sunday 11 AM–6 PM
  • Average Visit Length: 1.5–2 hours
  • Family Facilities: Accessible toilets, N/A for baby changing stations, small cafe
  • Age Suitability: Best for ages 8 and up
  • Educational Value: Features a large collection of classic and vintage cars, offering a unique perspective on the evolution of automotive design and technology.
  • Contact Details: +30 210 881 6187
  • Map: Hellenic Motor Museum on Google Map

The Hellenic Motor Museum is a paradise for car enthusiasts, featuring a collection of over 300 vehicles from the 19th century to modern times. The museum offers an educational journey through the history of automotive design, showcasing iconic models from various manufacturers and highlighting the technological advancements over the decades. It’s an exciting destination for families and car lovers alike.

7. War Museum of Athens – Greece’s Military History

Location: Rizari 2-4, Athina 106 75, Greece

Google Rating: 4.7/5

Overview:

  • Price Range: €6
  • Link to the Exhibitions: War Museum of Athens Exhibitions
  • Tickets: War Museum Entrance Tickets
  • Opening Hours:
    • Monday 9 AM–7 PM
    • Tuesday 9 AM–7 PM
    • Wednesday 9 AM–7 PM
    • Thursday 9 AM–7 PM
    • Friday 9 AM–7 PM
    • Saturday 9 AM–7 PM
    • Sunday 9 AM–7 PM
  • Average Visit Length: 1.5–2 hours
  • Family Facilities: Accessible toilets, N/A for baby changing stations, small cafe
  • Age Suitability: Best for ages 10 and up
  • Educational Value: Chronicles Greece’s military history from ancient times to the modern era, with exhibits on wars, battles, and military artifacts.
  • Contact Details: +30 210 725 2974
  • Map: War Museum of Athens on Google Map

The War Museum of Athens is dedicated to Greece’s military history, featuring exhibits that cover key conflicts from antiquity to the present day. The museum’s collection includes weapons, uniforms, and historical documents, offering an in-depth look at the country’s military heritage. The outdoor displays of aircraft and artillery make it an engaging visit for history buffs and families.

8. National Historical Museum – The Story of Modern Greece

Location: ΜΕΓΑΡΟ ΠΑΛΑΙΑΣ ΒΟΥΛΗΣ ΠΛΑΤΕΙΑ ΚΟΛΟΚΟΤΡΩΝΗ, Stadiou 13, Athina 105 61, Greece

Google Rating: 4.7/5

Overview:

  • Price Range: €10
    • Free admission: 2nd Sunday of the month (November-February)
  • Link to the Exhibitions: National Historical Museum Exhibitions
  • Tickets: No digital tickets available
  • Opening Hours:
    • Monday Closed
    • Tuesday 9 AM–4 PM
    • Wednesday 9 AM–4 PM
    • Thursday 9 AM–4 PM
    • Friday 9 AM–4 PM
    • Saturday 10 AM–4 PM
    • Sunday 10 AM–4 PM
  • Average Visit Length: 1.5–2 hours
  • Family Facilities: Accessible toilets, N/A for baby changing stations
  • Age Suitability: Best for ages 10 and up
  • Educational Value: Focuses on the history of Greece from the fall of Constantinople to the 20th century, with exhibits on the Greek War of Independence and the formation of the modern Greek state.
  • Contact Details: +30 210 323 7617
  • Map: National Historical Museum on Google Map

The National Historical Museum offers a comprehensive overview of Greece’s modern history, with a particular focus on the 19th and 20th centuries. The museum is housed in the Old Parliament Building, and its exhibits include historical documents, paintings, and artifacts related to the Greek War of Independence and the establishment of the modern Greek state. It’s a must-visit for anyone interested in modern Greek history.

9. Museum of the Ancient Agora – The Heart of Ancient Athens

Location: Athens 105 55, Greece

Google Rating: 4.7/5

Overview:

  • Price Range: €10
  • Link to the Exhibitions: Museum of the Ancient Agora Exhibitions
  • Tickets: Agota and Hephaistos Temple Entrance Tickets
  • Opening Hours:
    • Monday 8 AM–7 PM
    • Tuesday 8 AM–7 PM
    • Wednesday 8 AM–7 PM
    • Thursday 8 AM–7 PM
    • Friday 8 AM–7 PM
    • Saturday 8 AM–7 PM
    • Sunday 8 AM–7 PM
  • Average Visit Length: 1.5–2 hours
  • Family Facilities: Accessible toilets, N/A for baby changing stations
  • Age Suitability: Best for ages 8 and up
  • Educational Value: Provides insight into the political, commercial, and social life of ancient Athens, with a focus on the Athenian democracy and its institutions.
  • Contact Details: +30 210 321 0185
  • Map: Museum of the Ancient Agora on Google Map

The Museum of the Ancient Agora is located in the reconstructed Stoa of Attalos, within the archaeological site of the Ancient Agora of Athens. This museum offers a fascinating look into the daily life and governance of ancient Athens, featuring artifacts that reflect the Agora’s role as the heart of public life in the city. Visitors can explore the birthplace of democracy and understand the political and social systems of ancient Greece.

10. Museum of Greek Folk Musical Instruments – A Melodic Journey

Location: Diogenous 1-3, Athina 105 56, Greece

Google Rating: 4.6/5

Overview:

  • Price Range:
    • 3 euros (1 Apr. ~ 31 Oct.)
    • 2 euros (1 Nov. ~ 31 Mar.)
    • Every first Sunday of the month: free
  • Tickets: No digital tickets available
  • Link to the Exhibitions: Museum of Greek Folk Musical Instruments Exhibitions
  • Opening Hours:
    • Monday 8:30 AM–6 PM
    • Tuesday Closed
    • Wednesday 8:30 AM–6 PM
    • Thursday 8:30 AM–6 PM
    • Friday 8:30 AM–6 PM
    • Saturday 8:30 AM–6 PM
    • Sunday 8:30 AM–6 PM
  • Average Visit Length: 1–1.5 hours
  • Family Facilities: N/A for baby changing stations, accessible toilets
  • Age Suitability: Best for ages 8 and up
  • Educational Value: Showcases a collection of over 1,200 Greek folk musical instruments, offering insights into the country’s musical traditions and cultural heritage.
  • Contact Details: +30 210 325 0198
  • Map: Museum of Greek Folk Musical Instruments on Google Map

The Museum of Greek Folk Musical Instruments is a hidden gem in Athens, offering a unique exploration of the country’s musical heritage. The museum houses a collection of traditional Greek instruments, including lyres, drums, and flutes, providing visitors with an auditory and visual journey through the rich musical traditions of Greece. It’s a delightful experience for music lovers and those interested in cultural history.

Discover Athens’ Cultural Riches

Athens is a city where ancient history and modern culture come together beautifully, and its museums are a perfect reflection of this. Whether you’re marveling at the ancient treasures in the Acropolis Museum or exploring more recent history at the National Historical Museum, these 10 museums will give you a deeper appreciation of Greece’s incredible heritage. And while you’re in town, don’t forget to check out the best places for brunch in Athens or grab a bite at one of the top places for a burger in Athens to complete your experience!

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