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Museums & galleries

National Historical Museum

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National Historical Museum

About the Museum

Founded in 1882, the National Historical Museum is Greece's oldest history museum. It is housed in the former parliament building on Stadiou Street, which once served as the seat of the Greek legislature. Travellers visit to explore exhibits detailing the Greek War of Independence and the formation of the modern Greek state, set within preserved parliamentary interiors.

Getting There

The building sits in central Athens along Stadiou Street. Walking from Syntagma Square takes roughly 3 to 5 minutes. Visitors using public transport can access the site via Syntagma or Panepistimio metro stations.

Time to Allow

Allocate 1 to 2 hours to view the main galleries, historical artifacts, and the original assembly hall.

When to Go

Visiting on weekday mornings or mid-afternoon provides a calm experience. The venue generally sees lighter foot traffic than major ancient archaeological sites in the city, though occasional tour groups visit during midday hours.

Nearby Attractions

Several central sights are located within walking distance:

  • Numismatic Museum of Athens (0.2km)
  • Syntagma Square (0.3km)
  • Metropolitan Cathedral of Athens (0.3km)
  • Old Royal Palace (0.4km)

Updated September 8, 2026 · Edited by the World by City editors

Tickets & tours

Admission prices and opening hours change often, so we don't list them here. Check what's on sale and at what price below — booking ahead can cut the queue at some places.

This place may not appear in the results — some sites are free to enter or sell tickets only at the gate.

Stays near National Historical Museum

Sorted by distance, walkable ones first. Distances are straight-line.

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National Historical Museum Nearby stays

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Good to visit alongside

Numismatic Museum of Athens

Museums & galleries

Numismatic Museum of Athens

Greece's leading coin museum holds more than 500,000 pieces, from coins and medals to seals dating from 1400 BC to the present. Its collection of ancient Greek coins is especially rich, making it worthwhile for travelers interested in currency and history.

0.2 km away

Syntagma Square

Parks & gardens

Syntagma Square

Syntagma Square lies at the heart of Athens, fronted by the Greek Parliament building and the Tomb of the Unknown Soldier. Ermou Street, running west from the square, leads through the city's busiest shopping district.

0.3 km away

Metropolitan Cathedral of Athens

Temples & religious sites

Metropolitan Cathedral of Athens

This is the cathedral at the heart of the Greek Orthodox Archdiocese of Athens. It's more commonly known by its nickname, the Metropolis Cathedral.

0.3 km away

Old Royal Palace

Castles & palaces

Old Royal Palace

This is the former royal palace of Greece, completed in 1843. It now serves as the Hellenic Parliament building, offering a glimpse into Greece's modern history.

0.4 km away

National Garden of Athens

Parks & gardens

National Garden of Athens

The National Garden is a park in central Athens, bordered by the Hellenic Parliament, the Zappeion, the Panathenaic Stadium, and Syntagma Square. It's a pleasant spot for a relaxing stroll in the heart of the city.

0.6 km away

Plaka

Shopping & districts

Plaka

Plaka is Athens' old town at the foot of the Acropolis, where maze-like alleys mingle with neoclassical buildings. With ancient ruins close by, it's a great place to stroll and soak up the historic atmosphere of the city.

0.6 km away