Propylaea

The Basics

One of the first structures that most visitors to the Acropolis see, the Propylaea is a headliner of tours of Athens’ ancient sites. It was planned around the natural entrance to the plateau where the Acropolis is set, and the stairway that once led up to its central gate was built into the plateau’s rock slope. Dating from the 4th century BC, the Propylaea was designed to align with the Parthenon, and is the earliest example of urban planning that includes buildings positioned in relation to one another. The best way to visit is with a guide for insights to help interpret the ruins and understand their historic and architectural significance.

Things to Know Before You Go

• The heat in the sun-washed Acropolis can be grueling in summer, so be sure to wear a hat and sunscreen.
• The Acropolis can only be visited on foot, so comfortable shoes and clothing are a must.
• Lines to enter the ancient site can stretch for hours in the summer, so book admission tickets in advance.
• In addition to its glorious architecture, the Propylaea offers sweeping views over Athens. If you time your visit for early morning or late afternoon, the lighting is ideal for photos.
• An elevator and dedicated routes on and around the Acropolis are available for wheelchair users only; the site is not accessible for strollers (bring a baby carrier instead). There is a stroller check at the base of the Acropolis.

How to Get There

One of the top sights in the Acropolis of Athens, Propylaea is the easiest to reach on foot from the city center below. The closest metro stations to the entrances are Thesion, Monastiraki, and Acropolis. Once you pass the north- or south-side ticket booths at the foot of Acropolis Hill, it's a short walk uphill to the ancient entrance gate.

When to Get There

The Acropolis and its ancient structures are open year-round, but the summer heat and crowds can be daunting. Visit as soon as the site opens in the morning or just before it closes in the afternoon to avoid the soaring temperatures and throngs of tourists. Afternoon visits are particularly scenic as the sunset hour approaches.

Exploring the Acropolis

By far the most iconic ruin in the Acropolis is the spectacular Parthenon, but other must-sees include the Erechtheion (famous for its porch with six caryatids known as the Porch of the Maidens) and the Temple of Athena Nike. The site is also home to two large, well-preserved ancient theaters: Herodotus' Odeum and the Theater of Dionysus.