A practical guide to visiting at the Parthenon, including hours, ticketing, access, and alternatives for after-dark experiences.
History and overview
The Parthenon is one of the most recognisable ancient buildings on earth. Completed in 438 BC, it was built as a temple dedicated to the goddess Athena, protector of Athens. It sits atop the Acropolis hill and has become a symbolic monument of classical antiquity, known for its Doric columns and the sculptural programme overseen by Phidias.
Over the centuries, it has served as a pagan temple, Christian church, mosque, and even an armoury. Despite damage and loss, it remains the central focus of the Acropolis complex and a marker of Athenian democracy and cultural achievement.
Why book the Acropolis & Acropolis Museum Morning Walking Tour?
- ⏱ Approximately 3 hours of guided walking including both the Acropolis and the Museum
- 🌄 Small group format ensures personal attention and less crowded experience
- 🏛 Licensed guide provides skip-the-line access and rich historical commentary including mythology, architecture, and archaeology
- 📍 Visit the Temple of Athena Nike, Parthenon, Erechtheion, and then head into the Acropolis Museum to see original artifacts
- 🗺 Meeting point near the Acropolis Museum, with stunning views and convenience for getting there
- ⭐ Highly praised: 4.9/5 from over 100 reviews for guide knowledge, pace, and experience value
Are night visits to the Parthenon allowed?
The Parthenon and Acropolis archaeological site close at sunset. Standard opening hours are generally from 8:00 AM until 6:30–8:00 PM depending on the season, with the last admission about 30 minutes before closing. This means you cannot walk inside the Acropolis grounds or around the Parthenon itself at night.
However, there are opportunities to see the Parthenon illuminated after dark from outside the archaeological site. The monument is lit every evening and is visible from many vantage points across Athens, making night-time viewing one of the city’s highlights.
Best places to see the Parthenon at night
- Areopagus Hill (Mars Hill): Just west of the Acropolis, this rocky outcrop is free to access and offers sweeping night views of the illuminated Parthenon.
- Filopappou Hill: A short walk south-west of the Acropolis, this wooded hill has several lookout points with panoramic views of the Parthenon lit up at night.
- Rooftop bars and restaurants in Plaka or Monastiraki: Many establishments have terraces facing the Acropolis, combining evening meals with views of the monument.
- Syntagma Square area hotels: Some hotel rooftops have direct night views of the Acropolis and Parthenon.
Alternative after-dark experiences
While you cannot go inside the Parthenon itself after sunset, Athens offers several cultural alternatives in the evening. The Acropolis Museum remains open until 10:00 PM on Fridays, with its top floor offering views of the illuminated Parthenon.
Concerts, theatre productions, and festivals are sometimes staged at nearby ancient venues like the Odeon of Herodes Atticus, beneath the Acropolis slope.
Practical information for planning a visit
Tickets: Entry to the Parthenon is included in the Acropolis site ticket. Standard adult admission in high season is €30, with reduced and free admission categories available. Combined tickets covering multiple archaeological sites are also offered.
Accessibility: A lift is available at the Acropolis for visitors with mobility issues, but it must be arranged in advance. The terrain inside is uneven, with ancient stone paths and slopes, so comfortable footwear is essential.
Facilities: There are no cafés or restaurants inside the Acropolis. Water, sun hats, and good shoes are recommended for daytime visits. Restrooms are available near the entrance.
FAQ: visiting the Parthenon at night
| Question | Answer |
|---|---|
| Can I go inside the Parthenon at night? | No, the Acropolis and Parthenon close at sunset. Night access inside the site is not allowed. |
| When does the Parthenon close? | Generally between 6:30 and 8:00 PM depending on the season. Last entry is about 30 minutes before closing. |
| Where can I see the Parthenon after dark? | From public viewpoints like Areopagus Hill or Filopappou Hill, as well as rooftop bars, restaurants, and hotels around Plaka and Monastiraki. |
| Is the Parthenon lit up every night? | Yes, the monument is illuminated daily, and it is visible from many parts of Athens after dark. |
| Are there evening events at the Acropolis? | Occasionally, cultural events and concerts take place at nearby venues such as the Odeon of Herodes Atticus. The Parthenon itself does not host performances. |
| Can I photograph the Parthenon at night? | Yes, photography from outside the site is allowed and popular. The illuminated monument is a favourite subject for night photography. |
Although you cannot enter the Acropolis at night, seeing the Parthenon lit against the Athenian sky is pretty special. Plan a daytime visit for access to the monument itself, and then enjoy it lit up at night from the hills or terraces around the city.
More Athens travel
Other Athens travel stories on Planet Whitley include:
- Athens hotel recommendations.
- A first-time visitor’s guide to the Panathenaic Stadium in Athens.
- How to spend 24 hours in Athens before your cruise.
- A practical guide to the National Garden of Athens.
- How to get to the Theatre of Dionysus, Athens.
You can also choose from a wide range of Athens tours and experiences.
