Visiting the Acropolis is such a bucket list item! Located right in the center of Athens, this stunning ruin is visible from almost anywhere in the city. It’s the crown jewel of Athens and definitely is worth a visit! I visited in April 2024 as a stop on a 10-day Mediterranean cruise with Norwegian Cruise Line. We took a shuttle bus from the port to Plaka (the neighborhood in Athens that borders the Acropolis) and made sure this was the one thing we did with our day! Mistakes were definitely made, so learn from me! Here are my top tips for visiting the Acropolis in Athens!
1. Book Your Ticket in Advance
This is a piece of advice that was given to me before my trip by many people! I’ll be honest, I didn’t listen. And I really wish I would have because it almost ruined our day! When we arrived at the base of the Acropolis around 9:00 am, we were greeted by a huge line to buy tickets. There were some self-serve kiosks, but they were out of order. We then were able to find a QR code on a sign to scan to purchase the tickets online, but were shocked to see they were already sold out until 2:00 pm! We of course booked those right away, but it definitely threw a wrench in our day.
Do yourself a huge favor and book your tickets ahead of time, especially if you’re visiting in peak season! You can buy your tickets directly through their website here. Simply choose the date you’re visiting and select the time you want. The time frames given are one hour long, so you do have some wiggle room if you end up running a little late. Once you check out, you will be emailed your tickets with a QR code that will be scanned to enter.
2. Line Up Early
When you receive your tickets to your email inbox, they will instruct you to arrive about a half hour early. A line will start to form at that time and it will zig zag around the entrance. This is an important tip, because they actually open the gates and allow entry 15 minutes before your time actually starts! Meaning if you have a ticket valid from 9:00 am – 10:00 am, you should plan to arrive and enter the line at 8:30 am, and they will let you in starting at 8:45 am.
3. Wear Sturdy Footwear
While there is an elevator to the top for those who need it, the main way to the Acropolis is to hike! The path is paved at the bottom, but as you continue upward it turns to loose stone and stairs. Once at the top, there are large marble staircases and thick slabs that got very slippery (even with sneakers!). Do yourself a favor and leave the flimsy sandals at home (even if they are on brand being in Greece) and wear sturdy sneakers.
4. Sunscreen and a Hat!
There is exactly zero shade at the Acropolis once at the top! You are completely open to the sun and all the elements. Make sure you take precautions and lather up on sunscreen ahead of time. A hat would also be helpful to keep the strong sun rays off your face! I actually got the worst burn of my trip during the few hours we spent at the Acropolis. There is no relief from the sun and you’ll want to be prepared!
5. BYO Water
While you are not permitted to bring in any food, water bottles are allowed into the Acropolis! As mentioned, it can get very hot at the top, given that there is no shade and you’re completely out in the sun. Especially after the hike to the top, you’ll be thankful you packed a bottle of water or two!
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