Is the Acropolis Accessible for Visitors with Disabilities?
Here’s What You Need to Know About Elevators, Routes & Support Services
Visiting the Acropolis is possible for many people with reduced mobility thanks to major accessibility upgrades made in 2020 — but there are still some important details to be aware of before you go.
♿ New Elevator Access (Since 2020)
A modern elevator was added to help visitors in wheelchairs, people with disabilities, or even parents visiting alone with two or more infants. The elevator travels 25 meters up and drops visitors near the Erechtheion, right on the plateau of the Acropolis hill.
- 📍 Entrance location: North of the main (West slope) entrance
- 🚶♂️ Requires a short 350-meter walk on a specially designed path, known as the “Peripatos”
- 👥 Always operated with the help of trained security staff
- 🚫 Not available in strong winds or bad weather
📞 Contact before your visit to confirm availability:
+30 2103214172 or +30 2109238470
🗺️ Accessible Routes Around the Site
Once at the top, wheelchair users follow special routes to explore key parts of the Acropolis:
Route 1:
West of the Erechtheion and Ancient Temple of Athena, heading toward the Parthenon’s north side.
- ⬅️ Left: Sacred olive tree, Erechtheion’s north wing
- ➡️ Right: Pedestal of Athena Promachos, Propylaea’s eastern side
Route 2:
At the end of Route 1, visitors can:
- a) Go left (east) along the northern side of the Parthenon
- b) Go right (west) toward the Propylaea — but this path is steep (over 6% incline)
Route 3:
Head south along the east side of the Parthenon
- ⬅️ View the Temple of Rome and Augustus
- Ends near the old Acropolis Museum and southern wall
There, a second elevator helps visitors go down to the courtyard level, where toilets are available (note: the museum is closed).
🔁 Exit is via the same accessible route in reverse.
📍 View the full accessibility map here:
🗺️ Acropolis Accessibility Map (PDF)
🔁 Summary
- ✅ Elevator available (must call ahead)
- ✅ Designed pathways for wheelchairs with major landmarks included
- ⚠️ Some paths have steep slopes
- 🚻 Toilets are available near the old museum (accessed via second elevator)
- 🚫 Elevator service is suspended in bad weather or high winds
If you're planning to visit with mobility challenges or small children, call ahead to make sure the elevator is working and to ask any questions.