Top 10 Wheelchair Accessible Athens, Greece Attractions
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Athens has been inhabited for thousands and thousands of years. As a result, we see today the ancient remnants and structures, tales and myths, artifacts and art, making it a unique destination to visit.
Combine that with modern accessibility and you have yourself a bucket-list destination for your next accessible trip. In this article, we have curated a list of the top accessible attractions in Athens, Greece. With a diverse range of things to do, museums, ancient sites, gardens and more, there is something for every traveler.
We will also touch on accessible guided tour options. These are a conducive way to not only see more of what Athens has to offer, but you'll also be led by an expert guide who has a wealth of knowledge about the local area and visited attractions. The tours include adapted transportation, making it far easier to move around the city.
If you want to travel outside of Athens and see more of the beautiful country, consider a vacation package that includes accessible hotels, adapted transportation, and activities. That way, you can see Mykonos, Santorini, Crete, and other exciting places in Greece - in addition to Athens.
Accessible Attractions in Athens, Greece
Lets dive right into it. The following attractions are some of the top sites and activities to put on your radar. Most of them are well-equipped or built with accessibility - ramps, elevators, pathways, and adapted bathrooms.
Panathenaic Stadium
This magnificent stadium dates back to its construction in the 4th century BC, originally hosting the ancient Panathenaic athletic games. Later restored, the Panathenaic Stadium played a historic role as the venue for the first modern Olympic Games in 1896. It stands as the only stadium in the world made entirely of marble - with a capacity to hold as many as 80,000 people!
Panathenaic Stadium provides accessibility for people with reduced mobility, featuring ramps and wheelchair-accessible areas. There are accessible bathrooms on the square as well. Keep in mind that during the hot summer months, the stadium temperature can be quite hot due to the marble. It is recommended to visit in the morning or evening when temperatures are more moderate.
Syntagma Square
Originally constructed in the 19th century, Syntagma Square is perhaps the most prominent square in all of Greece. Located in the heart of the city and surrounded by notable landmarks, it boasts the Greek Parliament building, once a royal palace for King Otto. Visitors can witnessing the changing of the guard ceremony, explore the adjacent National Garden, and immerse themselves in the vibrant energy that defines the square. With numerous cozy cafes, restaurants, and bars in the vicinity, there's no shortage of places to relax and soak in the atmosphere.
The square is accessible, equipped with ramps and railings to facilitate access for people with reduced mobility.
National Garden of Athens
As we just mentioned, the National Garden of Athens sits adjacent to the parliament building. Spanning approximately 40 acres (16 hectares), this expansive garden provides an ideal oasis to unwind and reconnect with nature. The grounds were initiated by Queen Amalia in 1839. Today, the public park showcases a rich tapestry of flora, with over 500 species sourced both locally and from around the globe.
Adding to its charm, the National Garden encompasses several lakes, a conservatory, and cafe. Whether you're seeking a peaceful stroll or simply a break from the urban buzz, the National Garden is the place to go.
While some parts may have irregular terrain, the garden offers accessible paths and trails with ramps and walkways, ensuring individuals in wheelchairs can explore and enjoy its beauty.
The Acropolis Museum
The Acropolis Museum holds global recognition as one of the best museums in the world. It houses the archaeological ancient remains of Acropolis, an ancient citadel that served as the foundation of Greek civilization for centuries. There are over 4,000 artifacts in the museum. Highlights include Head of a statue of Alexander the Great, Parthenon west frieze, Parthenon south metope, and so much more. Go back in time thousands of years ago and experience the rich Greek history.
The Acropolis Museum is accessible for people with reduced mobility. The main entrance has a wheelchair ramp, elevators that service each level, and accessible toilets on the premises.
Acropolis of Athens
Situated high above the city of Athens, the Acropolis (meaning 'upper city') stands as a world-famous ancient monument that was once the foundation of Greek civilization. Built on a hill for its strategic location, conducive for refuge and sanctuary, the Acropolis has played diverse roles throughout history - residence for kings, home of the gods, a citadel, and now an attraction that brings thousands of visitors.
The construction of the Acropolis, which began in the 5th century BCE, represents the zenith of classical Greek architecture and artistry. At its summit is the Parthenon, an architectural marvel dedicated to the goddess Athena. The Propylaea, Erechtheion, and Temple of Athena Nike complete this celestial ensemble, creating a sacred precinct that has withstood centuries of history.
The Acropolis is a UNESCO World Heritage site. Though accessibility might vary within specific areas with the existence of stairs, the site is generally accessible, featuring ramps, pathways, and adapted restrooms for wheelchair users.
Central Market (Varvakios Agora)
The first ever food market in Athens created in 1886, Athens Central Market (or Varvakios Agora) brings thousands of daily visitors for it's quality ingredients and lively atmosphere. Many local restaurant owners will come to the market to purchase ingredients for their menus.
There is a vast selection of local goods. You can find just about anything here. Fresh daily fish that comes directly from seaside cities, quality meat cuts, produce, local wine, oil, herbs, olives, cheeses, and so much more. Some of the vendors have selling at this market for decades now.
It's a great place to enjoy local Athenian life. Various shops and restaurants are available where you can relax and grab a coffee, a meal, or a beer at one of the market's historic taverns.
The market has implemented ramps and broader access points for wheelchair users and individuals with mobility challenges. Keep in mind that it can get quiet busy at times, especially on the weekends. Peak hours are typically in the morning and early afternoon.
Temple of Olympian Zeus
Construction of this temple began in the 6th century BC, though it wasn't completed until 638 years later by Roman emperor Hadrian. Upon it's completion, the temple was the largest in all of Greece with the 104 massive columns that adorned it. However, throughout the centuries, the temple fell victim to continuous damage by multiple earthquakes that destroyed much of the existing temple. Presently, just a portion of the temple exists with 15 remaining columns and one fallen on the ground.
The Temple of Olympian Zeus is one of the oldest and significant historical sites in Greece. You can find it close to the city centre, approximately a half-mile from Syntagma Square.
There is accessibility throughout the site. Accessible pathways in and around the area with ramp entrances.
National Archaeological Museum
The largest archaeological museums in Greece, National Archaeological Museum houses an extensive collection of ancient Greek antiquities and art. There are over 11,000 exhibits available that cover multiple periods over thousands of years. From 2500 BC to the 4th century AD. Highlights include the Statue Of Zeus Or Poseidon, Statue Of Poseidon, The Mask Of Agamemnon that dates back to the 16th century BC.
The museum has excellent accessibility. A separate entrance on the side of Vas is equipped with a ramp, and once inside, there are elevators to access different areas. Accessible bathrooms are on the basement level.
Benaki Museum of Greek Culture
Founded by Antonis Benakis in the late 19th century, Benaki Museum of Greek Culture resides within one of the city's most stunning neoclassical buildings - located in the city center. The extensive collections housed within the museum span rich periods of history from the Bronze Age to modern times. With over 45,000 exhibits, visitors can embark on a captivating journey through the evolution of Greek culture and civilization over the centuries.
The museum offers access for people with reduced mobility, with ramps, elevators, and adapted restrooms on the premises.
Byzantine and Christian Museum
Another incredible museum in Athens is the Byzantine and Christian Museum. There are two primary sections to explore. The first is dedicated to Byzantium time period between the 4th and 15th centuries. The second section follows Byzantium era up to the modern era from 15th-20th century.
There are over 25,000 works available that represent the culture and art of Byzantine and post Byzantine time periods. The Tuscan Renaissance style building that houses the museum also has a beautiful surrounding property with gardens that feature smaller exhibitions. Within the gardens is also a cafe-bistro where visitors can grab a coffee, light meal or dessert and take a rest from the bustle of the city.
You will find accessible ramps, elevators, and adapted toilets that make the Byzantine and Christian Museum accessible for wheelchair-users.
Accessible Guided-Tours in and around Athens, Greece
One of the simplest ways to explore an extensively rich city is to opt for a guided tour. We will cover a few wheelchair accessible tours that include pickup/drop0ff services with an adapted vehicle, a knowledgable guide, and guides that have experience assisting people with disabilities.
Athens Half Day Guided Wine Tour
This accessible tour of Attica’s wine country begins at either Piraeus Port or your hotel in central Athens where you’ll be picked up by an accessible van with a wheelchair ramp. From there, you’ll make the scenic journey to the Markou Wine Museum, located in Mesogios. You’ll be able to take in the picturesque views as you travel to the winery and, once there, you’ll get to learn all about the ancient art of wine making, from growing the grapes to tasting the final product. At the end of the experience, you’ll be dropped off at your accommodation.
Learn more about Athens Half Day Guided Wine Tour
Cape Sounion Half Day Guided Tour from Athens
On this accessible half-day tour, you can enjoy a scenic journey along the “Athens Riviera” with a guide. The tour begins with a pick-up service in an accessible van from your Athens hotel, from which you’ll head to a coastal road. The drive includes breathtaking scenery and if you take the tour in the afternoon, you can watch the sunset over the Aegean Sea. There is a scheduled stop-off at the Temple of Poseidon, where the guide will tell you about the region’s rich history and culture, and you can also choose to enjoy lunch or dinner in a local restaurant with a beautiful sea view.
Learn more about Cape Sounion Half Day Guided Tour
Athens Highlights Half Day Guided Tour
This accessible private guided tour showcases some of the most beautiful and memorable sites of Athens in a half day. The tour begins with a pick-up service from your hotel in an accessible van, and your agenda includes a visit to the Acropolis, the Olympic Stadium, and Syntagma Square. Your knowledgeable guide will tell you about the historic monuments and can answer your questions and snap photos of you in scenic locations. You will also drive down Panepistimiou Boulevard and see the Academy of Athens and the National Library. At the end of the tour, you will be dropped off at your accommodation.
Learn more about Athens Highlights Half Day Guided Tour
Accessible Greece Vacation Packages: Hotels, Activities, Transportation
Consider booking an accessible vacation package in Greece. This will make it easy to not only explore Athens, but other places in the country as well.
Places like Mykonos, Santorini, Crete and Corfu are included in these bundles. It allows for a more worry-free trip because you will receive hotels, activities, and transportation - all of which is accessible. View them below:
Vacation Package #1 - Greek Highlight: Athens, Mykonos & Santorini
Explore the best of Greece. This 7-day multi-day trip to Greece highlights a little of everything this country has to offer. From historical landmarks to accessible beaches, you will also have professional guides and free time to explore.
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In Athens, you will dive deeply into Greek culture and history with a guided tour of the city on a wheelchair-accessible van. Here you'll visit world-renowned monuments such as the Olympieion and the Acropolis. You will also stop by Mykonos and Santorini, the famous islands with iconic cube-shaped houses, blue rooftops, steep slopes, and beautiful beaches.
This multi-day trip was designed with accessibility in mind for both manual and power wheelchair users. Routes can be adapted depending on your needs; comfort and safety are our priorities! All guaranteed accessible rooms are equipped with a roll-in shower, and an accessible van fitted with a wheelchair ramp or lowered entrance will do all transfers between destinations, activities, your hotel, and the airport. Please note that the earlier you book this trip, the higher the chance of finding an accessible room that better suits you.
This trip includes ferry trips between destinations on days 3, 5, and 7. Most of the ferries are suitable for passengers with limited mobility. Ferries typically have wheelchair-accessible ramps, elevators, and accessible public areas such as restaurants and toilets. Most companies have trained staff that generally assist wheelchair users on embarkation and disembarkation. The ferry reservation will be made according to your needs, and accessibility will be guaranteed on ferries that we recommend.
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Vacation Package #2 - Getting to know Greece: Athens & Crete
On this 8-day multi-day trip to Athens and Crete, you will explore Ancient Greek history and heritage in a fun, accessible way. The itinerary is designed to give you a flavor of the Greek capital, with a visit to some of its most famous monuments.
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On this 8-day multi-day trip to Athens and Crete, you will explore Ancient Greek history and heritage in a fun, accessible way. The itinerary is designed to give you a flavor of the Greek capital, with a visit to some of its most famous monuments. You'll also admire the local scenery on your driving tour of the Athens Riviera of Cape Sounion. Later in your multi-day trip, you'll travel to Crete and stay in a luxurious and accessible resort, with time to relax by the water and explore the beautiful island.
This multi-day trip was designed with accessibility in mind. Your comfort and safety are our priorities! The guaranteed accessible rooms at a 4-star hotel in Athens and a 5-star resort in Crete are equipped with a roll-in shower. An accessible van fitted with a wheelchair ramp or low entrance will do all transfers between activities and airports.
Vacation Package #3 - Vacations in Greece: Athens & Corfu
On this 8-day multi-day to Greece, you will explore Athens and Corfu Island, discovering the best of Greek culture and nature in an accessible way.
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The itinerary includes an accessible tour of Athens highlights, the option to visit the accessible Glyfada beach, beautiful Corfu explorations, and free days to rest and enjoy resort amenities.
This multi-day trip was designed with accessibility in mind. Your comfort and safety are our priorities! The guaranteed accessible rooms at a 4-star hotel in Athens and a 5-star luxury resort in Corfu island are equipped with a roll-in shower. An accessible van fitted with a wheelchair ramp or low entrance will do all transfers between activities and airports.
Final Thoughts
As you can see from the amount of accessible attractions, tours, and package options in Athens (and Greece as a whole), Greece is an outstanding destination for accessible travel. It truly has it all - ancient sites, museums, gardens, beaches, and quality cuisine. Take a look at our accessible resources below to help with planning all things travel.
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