So many. So similar. So Different.
Art and history are two of the most common and there can be overlap between the two. Athens has plenty of both kinds of museums you don’t want to miss.
TIP: Never, ever, EVER do more than three museums in one day. Try to limit yourself to two. It’s easy to burn out on seeing even super cool stuff. And easy to burn out on crowds of people.
In Athens to avoid museum fatigue choose the ones you are most interested in carefully. For me that was Archeological Museum, Acropolis Museum, and Benaki Museum.
Archeological Museum
As a nerd and computer professional, the Archeological Museum was a must for me because it had the Antikythera Mechanism. It’s considered to be the first analog computation device and is over 2000 years old! It was used to calculate the positions of the solar system. There are several replicas in the display as well as a video of how the remaining pieces would have been in the mechanism when it was in use.
Check out my video of the Antikythera display.
Lots of sculptures and artifacts from all over Greece and the Greek Empire. Plus some shiny gold items. =)
Fun Fact: I tried to post some photos of the sculptures on FB and they were rejected because of nudity.
I bought a replica of Phillip II’s portable sun dial from the gift shop.
NOTE: Be respectful when wandering. If there are signs that say no photos or videos, don’t try to sneak photos or videos. And don’t spend excessive amounts of time in front of one item.
Happily, the museums I visited all had display explanations in Greek and English. Many if not most museums also offer audio guides in additional languages. I don’t read every description of every item. I read the ones for items that catch my eye or I’m specifically interested in. If you’re traveling with someone new, ask their preference, if they want to read everything about everything, I suggest making a plan to go in opposite directions and meet up at a specific time and place. That way you are rushing them, and they aren’t dragging you.
Acropolis Museum
Specifically built for the return of the Parthenon metopes. No photos allowed inside. One thing I find fabulous in much of Europe, when excavating for a new building if they find ruins or relics they stop and assess the site. Sometimes new sites are chosen. Sometimes the new building incorporates the ruins. The Acropolis Museum has clear viewpoints down into ruins beneath the building. Highlights are the full size display waiting for the return of the Parthenon marbles and the original statues from the Porch of the Maidens.
TIP: This isn’t included in the normal AthensPass but can be added so you can skip another line. 😉
Benaki Museum
Technically there are six branches of the Benaki Museum, I visited the main branch across from the National Garden. It’s a fantastic collection. The building was originally their home and two rooms show the grandeur of decorations. It’s impressive if a bit much for my style!
The museum highlights the influences of various empires that ruled Greece throughout history. I opted not to buy the replica earrings for 1700E. Because of the price and because they look like they would hurt my ears.
If you have time, or want to rest, the cafe on the roof is a great place for a coffee or cocktail and to watch the sunset. If you stay long enough you will see the soldiers marching too and from the changing of the guard at the Monument of the Unknown Soldier.
There are many more museums in Athens, but if you have limited time these three are the must see.