Parthenon

The basics

The best way to visit the Parthenon is on a walking tour of the Acropolis of Athens, including neighboring ruins such as the Propylaea, the Temple of Athena Nike, and the Erechtheion. While you can purchase Acropolis tickets that just get you into the ancient site, first-time visitors to Athens can also combine a visit with a city sightseeing tour.

These combination tours can include a half-day trip to the Temple of Poseidon and Cape Sounion; or even a food-focused city tour. History buffs can also tack on a tour of the Ancient Agora or a visit to the new Acropolis Museum which opened in 2009.

Things to know before you go

• The Parthenon is most often visited on half- or full-day city tours of ancient Athens.

• Parthenon tours involve a lot of walking on uneven and often slippery (well-worn stone) surfaces; wear comfortable shoes with good grip.

• Come prepared for the weather, as the Parthenon is an indoor/outdoor experience.

• A wheelchair lift is available to the top of the Acropolis.

How to get there

The Parthenon is located within the Acropolis on a hilltop in the city of Athens. You’ll find the entrance to the Acropolis at Dionysiou Areopagitou or Theorias. The nearest underground metro station is Akropoli on the Metro Line 2. It’s wheelchair-accessible. Many buses and trolleys also stop at the Acropolis. Of course, the least-stressful way to get there is via a guided tour that includes hotel pick-up.

When to get there

The Parthenon is open from April to October, Monday from late morning to evening, and Tuesday to Sunday from morning to evening; November to March, it's open daily from morning to mid-afternoon. As with most popular tourist attractions, it's worth arriving early before the busloads of tourists arrive. You may even want to consider booking this First Access Acropolis Tour, Beat the Crowds, Enjoy the Parthenon tour. It starts at 7:45am and includes skip-the-ticket-line service.

An awkward encounter with England

In the early 19th century, when Athens was under Turkish rule, sculptures from the Parthenon were sold to Englishman Lord Elgin. The artifacts, nicknamed the Elgin Marbles, are now on display in London's British Museum. However, the Greek government insists they should be returned. The Elgin Marbles remain a point of contention.

Ways to explore

The best way to visit the Parthenon is on a skip-the-line walking tour of the Acropolis, where you’ll also be able to see ruins such as the Erechtheion and Odeon of Herodes Atticus. Many travelers pair the Parthenon with the Acropolis Museum, which houses several of the structure’s original sculptures.

Purchase Acropolis tickets solely for the ancient site, or visit it as part of an Athens sightseeing tour. Some experiences also include a half-day trip to the Temple of Poseidon and Cape Sounion, while others highlight city landmarks in Plaka, Monastiraki, and Syntagma Square.

Accessibility

A wheelchair lift is available to the top of the Acropolis, and while the ground is often uneven, the Parthenon is mostly wheelchair accessible.

Age limits

None

What to pack

Camera, water, sunscreen

What to wear

There’s little shade at the Parthenon and Acropolis, so dress for the weather and wear comfortable walking shoes for the rocky paths.

Not allowed

Smoking, littering, non-service animals, veering off marked visiting routes

Amenities

Gift shop, restrooms, information point

Address

The Parthenon is within the Acropolis, a hilltop and archaeological park in central Athens. Head inside via the main entrance on Theorias Street or near the Acropolis Museum on Dionysiou Areopagitou. Both entrances are easy to reach on foot from Athens’ main attractions, but you can also take public transportation.

Driving

Instead of self-navigating through Athens’ busy traffic and limited parking, it’s best to call a taxi, use a rideshare app, or book a guided tour with included transportation to the Acropolis.

Public transportation

The closest metro station is Acropoli (line 2), but Thiseio (line 1) and Monastiraki (line 3) are also nearby. Many buses and trolleys also stop close to the Acropolis.

Best times to visit

As with most popular attractions, it’s worth arriving early before the busloads of tourists arrive. The Parthenon is also nice in the late-afternoon light—just avoid the hot midday period.

Best days to visit

One of the top sights in Athens, the Parthenon is always busy. Go whenever suits your schedule, ideally on a clear and sunny day, as the attraction is outdoors.

Best months to visit

September through November are great months for visiting the Parthenon, as daytime temperatures are mild and the summer tourists have left.