The Acropolis of Athens is recognized as one of the most prominent sites in the world, epitomizing all the important aspects, both historically and architecturally of ancient Greece. Situated on a steep, rocky outcrop in the heart of the city of Athens, the Acropolis contains a number of historic monuments, the best-known being the Parthenon. The confusion of the various buildings of this enormous monument requires a careful Acropolis map from which to derive planning information.
In this Athens Acropolis Map Guide, you will read about important parts of the Acropolis, how to use the map at the site and useful information on how best to enjoy this UNESCO World Heritage Site.
Exploring Historic Landmarks Near the Acropolis
Availing the Acropolis is sufficient to kindle wonder among those interested in ancient structures, one can find quite a number of other ancient landmarks that are in the vicinity. Many of these are located on wider Athens maps and thus will not need much explanation:
1-The acropolis museum
If one walks a little south from the Acropolis, they will find this museum, and its purpose is to display the items that were excavated on the slopes of the Acropolis hill.
Address: 15 Dionysiou Areopagitou Street, Athens
Official site: http://www.theacropolismuseum.gr/en
2-Areopagus Hill
Thanks to the dominating hill, Areopagus, that is right next to the Acropolis one can get a bird’s eye view of the whole disputed city and of its sacred hill.
3-Ancient Agora
Just north of the acropolis lays an ancient structure by the name of the Ancient Agora. This building was the hub of all activity in the city with temples, statues and ancient places in ruins.
4-Temple of Olympian Zeus
Accompanied by several other temple ruins, Temple of Olympian Zeus is one of the largest and most magnificent temples built during ancient Greece, located several miles from the head of the Acropolis, and well recommended running under the maps of Athens for the visitors.
Essential Features of an Acropolis Map
When choosing or using a map of the Acropolis, it is advisable to make sure that the following elements are present:
- Labels indicating important sites such as Parthenon, Erechtheion & Theatre of Dionysius.
- Walking paths and trails leading up the hill and down the slopes.
- Entrance and exit Points, toilets, cafés, ticket offices – all that is required.
- Altitude signs denoting the continue going up to the Acropolis hill.
- Landmarks of corresponding importance such as Areopagus Hill and Ancient Agora that are usually included within one day tour of Athens.
Athens Acropolis Map A Cut Above Guide
Practical Information with regards to travel to Acropolis.
Tickets to the Acropolis: entrance cost, It’s possible to either buy it on the spot or do it via the internet. To make sure that you do not spend a lot of time in the ticket queue especially when the number of tourists is high, it is wise to purchase your e-tickets in advance.
Comfort and Safety: In the vicinity of the Parthenon, extra paving has been done, whilst the Acropolis on the whole remains uneven with a few slippery surfaces. It is best to use supportive walking shoes because of the magnification comfort and security during the activity. Since food is limited and beverages especially cannot be readily obtained, carry enough water especially during summer.
Photographic Shooting Tip: Steer away from the use of flash while taking images inside the museum. No matter what the season, the desirable times for taking beautiful photos are early morning and late afternoon, strong sun is absent in both these periods. These times facilitate a softer light and less crowds.
What to eat: On the top of the hill, where the Acropolis Museum is located a café and a restaurant can be found that serves food and drinks with incredible views of the ruins. On the way to the northern exit for seeking more variety of the food establishments one may turn out to the Anafiotika and Plaka which are the necked interiors’ of great shophouses. Here are the delightful narrow streets full of restaurants and cafes.
Best Time to Visit the Acropolis
the best time to visit the Acropolis, Athens is in the spring, typically the month of march and april with September and October. At the day time the temperature will be normal (warm but not too hot)
The winter is a good time to visit Acropolis — downside is that days can be cloudy, wet, and gray.
In summer, generally June, July, and August, the days, especially after 10am, can be extremely hot, and with limited shade, it’s easy to get overheated. August is busy with big crowds.
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