Museums & galleries
Benaki Museum
Benaki Museum
The Benaki Museum is a private institution founded in 1930 by Antonis Benakis. It is housed in the founder's former family mansion and displays a chronological collection of Greek art, ranging from prehistoric eras to the modern period. Additionally, the museum contains a collection of Asian art. Visitors go here to trace the cultural evolution of Greece through a single, comprehensive collection.
Getting There
The museum is located within the central district of Athens. From the city center, it is accessible via a short taxi ride or a walk, typically taking 10 to 20 minutes depending on the starting point. For those arriving from Athens International Airport (ATH), public transport or taxis connect the airport to the central area.
Visit Duration
Allow approximately 2 to 4 hours to view the primary exhibits. The time required depends on whether you intend to explore both the Greek and Asian collections in detail.
When to Visit
Visiting during weekday mornings generally avoids the largest crowds. Like most major cultural sites in Athens, it can become crowded during the peak summer tourist season. There are no specific seasonal closures, but mid-week visits are typically quieter than weekends.
Nearby Attractions
Due to its central location, the museum can be combined with several other sites within walking distance:
- Museum of Cycladic Art: 0.2km
- National Garden of Athens: 0.3km
- Old Royal Palace: 0.3km
- Presidential Mansion: 0.4km
Updated September 8, 2026 · Edited by the World by City editors