Agora of Athens

The Agora of Athens is considered the best preserved example of an ancient Greek agora in the world. Visit with a guide for expert insight into these ruins, which can be hard to interpret on one’s own. For independent travelers, the hop-on-hop-off bus and downloadable audio guide of the archaeological site provides both transportation and extra information.

Join a private or small-group walking tour that includes skip-the-line tickets—a must for these popular and crowded ruins—as well as a visit to the Agora Museum. Or, opt for a tour that pairs a visit to the Agora with the Acropolis. Look for a family-focused tour if visiting with kids; some guides specialize in making the site come to life for younger travelers.

Things to Know Before You Go

• The Agora of Athens and its museum are a must for archaeology buffs.
• Almost all of the ruins are outdoors, so dress appropriately for the weather and wear comfortable shoes.
• Some areas of the site are accessible to wheelchairs and strollers; the museum is fully accessible.
• The Stoa of Attalos houses the Museum of the Ancient Agora, where you can view ancient art and artifacts unearthed at the site.
• The Acropolis combination ticket includes entry to the Acropolis and six other sites— including the Agora—within a 5-day admission window.

How to Get There

The ancient Agora sits above the modern city of Athens and is a short walk from the Acropolis. Take the metro Green Line to the Thissio station, and walk about five minutes along Adrianous Street to the site.

When to Get There

The Agora of Athens is open every day except major holidays. The site is almost entirely outdoors, so avoid visiting during the midday hours in summer. Instead, time your tour for early morning or late afternoon and take refuge in the museum when the temperatures soar.

The History of the Agora of Athens

The Agora of Athens, where Socrates once expounded his philosophy, dates back to the 6th century BC. This vast area lies to the northwest of the Acropolis and once featured an elaborate drainage system, a series of fountains, and a temple devoted to the Olympian Gods. The Agora was finally abandoned after a Slavic invasion in the 6th century.

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