Acropolis of Athens: prices are increasing, how much will you pay?

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If you’re planning a trip to Athens, visiting the Acropolis, the famous archaeological site overlooking the Greek capital (📖 read our guide), has just become more expensive. Since early April, the cost for tourists has increased. What’s worse, by April 2025, the entry fee to this iconic site will rise to 30 euros, up from the current 20 euros, and from just 10 euros during the winter period.

This significant price hike makes the Acropolis one of the most expensive sites in Europe, surpassing even the cost of visiting the Palace of Versailles or the Eiffel Tower.

The last price increases were five years ago, and the rates were considered “too low” compared to other European sites, especially given its popularity: in 2023, out of 32.7 million visitors to Greece, 3.5 million visited the Acropolis.

The surge in visitors, along with those at many other sites in Greece – which boasts 18 UNESCO World Heritage sites – is accelerating the deterioration of these monuments. The decision to raise prices is therefore aimed at better funding the conservation of these world heritage jewels.

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Visitors have mixed feelings about the price increase. Some, like Sally, an American tourist interviewed by Franceinfo, are willing to accept the extra cost if it contributes to the preservation of the site. Others find the increase excessive and worry that it could exclude less wealthy visitors.

Free access remains for some

Despite the increases, young Europeans under 25 and non-Europeans under 18 will continue to enjoy free access, maintaining some level of accessibility.

Moreover, all 350 archaeological sites and museums in Greece will see similar price hikes, and multi-site passes, as well as discounts for seniors over 65, will be discontinued. This stricter pricing policy comes as Greece broke its tourism attendance record in 2023 with more than 32.7 million international visitors, highlighting the critical importance of tourism, which accounts for about a quarter of the country’s GDP.

Tourists are therefore advised to plan their visits considering these new pricing policies. The official Acropolis website will provide the necessary information.

Private tours of the Acropolis for 5000 euros

However, if money is no object, there’s a different option available.

Starting this April, the Greek government will introduce a VIP option at the Acropolis, allowing groups of up to five people to enjoy a private tour of the Parthenon for 5000 euros. These tours are available early in the morning (from 7 AM to 9 AM) and late at night (from 8 PM to 10 PM), outside normal visiting hours.

This initiative, touted as an “enhanced service,” includes a private guide and special gifts, aiming to generate additional revenue without restricting access to the public. However, some see it as discriminatory.