Starting from September 4, 2023, the Acropolis now has set time zones for visits. They only allow a certain number of visitors each hour. When you book a tour with us, you're sure to get in at the exact time you choose.

Athens, with its legendary Acropolis, has long been a dream destination for those seeking to immerse themselves in the tapestry of ancient civilizations. This awe-inspiring monument, standing tall for over three millennia, symbolizes democracy, architectural brilliance, and cherished heritage. It has captivated the hearts of countless generations, drawing thousands of visitors each day. Yet, its popularity has brought forth an urgent need to safeguard this ancient wonder for posterity.

The Call for Preservation: Why Change Was Needed

The Acropolis, much like other cultural treasures, is a non-renewable asset that calls for our unwavering care and responsibility. In recent months, the escalating number of tourists visiting this monument has raised concerns about its preservation. The result has been lengthy queues for entry and overcrowding on the site, making it increasingly challenging for visitors to savor their experience.

To address the challenges posed by the ever-growing tourist footfall, the authorities have taken decisive steps to regulate the crowds and control the flow of visitors entering the monument. 

Time to Explore the Acropolis: Understanding the New Entry Time Zones

A new program has been introduced, starting September 4 2023 involving the implementation of specific time zones for entry to the Acropolis. This innovative approach aims not only to minimize waiting times but also to prevent overcrowding, ensuring a more sustainable and enjoyable experience for all visitors.

What That Means for You:

• Less waiting times
• Reduced Crowds
• An Overall More Enjoyable Experience

What's Changing:

• All tickets will now be issued for specific days and times.
• Booking a tour with us guarantees your entry on that specific date and time.
• Advance booking is highly recommended due to limited availability.
• Up to 24 hours before the tour start time, cancellations are free of charge; afterward, non-refundable.
• If, for any reason, you arrive late, do not show up, or are denied entry, your ticket and tour fee are non-refundable.
• Amendments to time, date, or passenger numbers within 24 hours of the tour start time will not be possible.
• Latecomers who miss the tour cannot attend a later one. We will try our best to accommodate them, if there is availability at the moment, but they will need to repurchase both the tour and ticket at full price.

Please read our new cancellation policy

The updated Cancellation Policy, effective as of today, September 2nd, applies to all reservations made for tours starting from September 4th onwards. 

IMPORTANT NOTE

If your tour does not include entrance tickets (Without Ticket), the most convenient and hassle-free way to ensure your entry is to cancel your existing booking (Without Ticket), receive a 100% refund, and create a new booking (With Ticket). As preferred partners of the Acropolis, we possess wider access to the availability of entrance tickets, assuring your access to the site at the precise time of your scheduled tour.

Alternatively, you can take the initiative to purchase your own tickets. Ensure you obtain tickets that align with the correct date and entry time zone, corresponding to the entry time of your visit to the Acropolis as booked in your tour. 
We recommend utilizing the official platform provided by the Acropolis authority for this purpose.

https://hhticket.gr/tap_b2c_new/english/tap.exe?PM=P1P&place=000000002 

If you can't find availability for the day and time zone your tour starts, please cancel your existing booking (Without Ticket), receive a 100% refund, and create a new booking (With Ticket).

Joining the Cause: How Athens Walking Tours Supports Acropolis Preservation

As an integral part of the tourism sector, Athens Walking Tours takes great pride in its responsibility to protect this historic legacy. Conducting tours to the Acropolis daily, all year round, we recognize the significance of our role in safeguarding this treasured monument. We are actively engaged in safeguarding efforts and are members of the Committee established by the HELLENIC ASSOCIATION OF TRAVEL & TOURIST AGENCIES. This committee collaborates closely with ODAP (the Organization for the Development of Greek Tourism and Culture), which specializes in these matters. Our overarching goal is to offer guests the best possible experience while upholding the principles of sustainable tourism.

Protecting the Acropolis is not solely a duty of the authorities or the tour companies; it is a collective responsibility shared by every individual who steps foot on its hallowed grounds. Each visitor, whether local or international, plays a crucial role in preserving this cultural heritage. By being mindful of our impact, respecting the rules and guidelines set forth by the authorities, and following the guidance of tour companies like Athens Walking Tours, we contribute to the longevity of the Acropolis.

The Acropolis stands as a timeless testament to human ingenuity and history. As its admirers and guests, we must embrace the responsibility of protecting it. With the combined efforts of the authorities, tour companies, and responsible travelers, we can ensure that future generations will also have the privilege to bask in the glory of this ancient wonder. Let us come together, united in purpose, to secure the legacy of the Acropolis for the ages to come.