A Guide to the Acropolis of Athens - Discover its Endless Allure

The Acropolis of Athens is a magnificent hilltop landmark where history and mythology meet culture and philosophy. Explore the ancient monuments of the Acropolis to learn about the architecture and how it connects to the land. Then connect with other remnants of ancient Greece around the hill and in the buzzing city of modern Athens.

Classical Hellenic culture shaped the ancient world, and the Acropolis of Athens is its architectural embodiment. Constructed mainly in the 5th century in dedication to Athena, the patron goddess of the city, the Acropolis was built on a rocky hill where simpler fortifications had stood for centuries. The monuments became centres from which ideas of philosophy, democracy and theatre emerged. These ideas spread across continents and endured through centuries.

The fact that the Acropolis stands on a hill connects it to mythology. Hills, with natural features like caves and springs, were thought of as places where gods dwelled. Peaks had the benefits of being easier to defend and being closer to gods. One place to feel close to nature and myths is the Olive Tree of the Acropolis, which legend says was a gift from Athena. Throughout the turmoil of the centuries, an olive tree has stood at this spot, and branches have often been saved to replant.

Of the structures that make up the Acropolis, the Parthenon is the most glorious. Greek statesman Pericles ordered the construction of the monument, which became a centre of religious life and a meeting place for the Delian League, an alliance of Greek city-states. One of the Parthenon's architectural highlights is its symmetrical appearance. The structure was made using more than 13,000 stones and has dozens of Doric columns made from marble. Interestingly, in the 21st century, the Parthenon and other Acropolis structures have been cleaned using laser technology that removes pollution damage and retains ancient details.

Take a tour of the Acropolis to explore buildings surrounding the Parthenon, including the smaller but no less important Temple of Athena Nike. Along with Athena, this Ionic temple is named after Nike, the goddess of victory. Nike was considered an attribute of Athena, an extension of her identity, and was often depicted in artwork as being carried in Athena's hand.

The Temple of Athena Nike is one of the structures you'll see after entering through the imposing gate of the Acropolis, Propylaea. This monumental gate was an important gathering space for events like the Panathenaic Festival celebrations, as well as ceremonies and rituals. As you pass through, try to imagine the feelings of ancient Athenians as they transitioned between the secular world and the sacred space of the Acropolis.

Visit the Acropolis during the shoulder seasons of spring and autumn to explore with fewer crowds and pleasant weather. Temperatures are usually in the low 20s (Celsius), and crowds, although still quite big, will be lower than the peak summer season. Winter guarantees low crowds and weather that's not too cold, though it can be rainy in Athens. Whatever time of year you visit, it's good to know that mornings and evenings are less busy and also bathe the monuments in a special light.

Acropolis of Athens

• Opening times: 8am-8pm (summer), 8am-5pm (winter)
• Nearest metro station: Acropoli (10 minutes on foot)
• Nearest tram station: Leoforos Vouliagmenis (15 minutes on foot)
• Tickets: €20, concessions €10

The Acropolis is highly visible around the city, so it's easy to book a high-end restaurant or a luxury hotel in Athens with Acropolis vistas. Views of the ancient monument, lit up at night, go perfectly with a traditional Greek meal or sundowner on your private balcony, the warm Aegean air drifting in from the sea. Dine at the rooftop Mappemonde Restaurant Bar-Lounge inside Athens Capital Hotel - MGallery Collection for views paired with Mediterranean flavours, as a warm glow embraces the Acropolis. For Michelin-starred dining with Acropolis views, try Hytra inside the Onassis Stegi cultural centre.

The Acropolis is a symbol of creativity, perseverance and excellence. It has influenced architecture for centuries, providing the inspiration for Neoclassical buildings in Greece and around the world. Cultural influences continue to be felt in settings like the 2nd-century Odeon of Herodes Atticus, located on the southwest slope of the Acropolis. The amphitheatre still hosts classical concerts and festivals today.

To experience another Athens theatre on a different peak with ancient monuments (and Acropolis views), visit the Lycabettus Theatre on the fascinating Lycabettus Hill.

Complete your immersion in the charms of ancient Greece by visiting sites like the Acropolis Museum or the Ancient Agora of Athens. The museum houses artefacts and relics from the Acropolis, including sections of the Parthenon Frieze, and provides plenty of context through exhibits. Don't miss the chance to see the ruins of a historical Athenian neighbourhood through the museum's glass floor.

The Ancient Agora, at the foot of the Acropolis hill, was a gathering place representing the heart of social and political life in Athens, with figures like Pericles and Socrates walking the ground centuries ago. Its aura is retained in the remaining ruins.

The Acropolis Museum

• Open: 9am-5pm Mon-Thurs, 9am-10pm Fri, 9am-8pm Sat/Sun (winter); 9am-5pm Mon, 9am-8pm Tue-Sun, 9am-10pm Fri (summer)
• Tickets €20, concessions €10
• Nearest metro station: Acropoli (1 minute on foot)

Ready to delve into the ancient mysteries of Athens?