National Archaeological Museum luggage storage

About the National Archaeological Museum

Athens National Archaeological Museum is the largest archaeological museum in Greece. It contains the most extensive collection of classical Greek artifacts in the world. Sooner or later, anyone with interest in Greek history is likely to end up here. It's no wonder it's one of the city's most visited tourist attractions.

The current museum was built in 1889. During World War II, the treasures housed inside were boxed up and buried to protect them from destruction and looting by soldiers. The museum has been expanded several times through the years, with the latest expansion in 2008 making room for an impressive collection of Egyptian artifacts.

The museum's collection covers the Neolithic era, the Greek Bronze Age, Mycenaen civilization, one of the world's best collections of Egyptian artifacts, and of course, art and objects from the classical and Hellenistic periods of Greece. Highlights include the mask of Agamemnon, the famous statue of Pan, Aphrodite, and Eros, and the mysterious Antikythera Mechanism, a kind of early mechanical computer.

The museum is in the Exarcheia area of central Athens, just to the north of the Acropolis and many of Athens' other central attractions. This makes it easy to visit as part of an Athens trip.

Things to do near the National Archaeological Museum

The Museum by itself is worth a day of anybody's time. And if you really want to dive into the extensive collections, you may need more than a day to explore everything the museum has. But its central location means there are plenty of other attractions close to the museum. You can experience the full range of what this fascinating city has to offer without straying far from the area. For instance, you can:

• Get away from it all on Mount Lycabettus. This 900-foot hill is the tallest point in Athens, and offers sweeping views across the city, including of the Parthenon. A funicular railway carries passengers to the top of the hill, and an open-air theater at the summit occasionally hosts concerts and other performances.
• Live like a local at the Central Municipal Athens Market. This is where native Athenians come to do their shopping, and it's a great place to pick up ingredients for a picnic lunch. It's also a fun place to wander and soak up the vibe. As well as food stalls, you'll find restaurants inside that allow you to sample some of the best produce of the area.
• Lose yourself in the charm of Pittaki Street. Decorated by repurposed lights and lanterns, this narrow street oozes charm. The eclectic boutique stores make the perfect place to pick up some souvenirs and gifts you won't find anywhere else.
• Venture into history at the Roman Agora. During the ancient Roman occupation of Greece, the Agora was the center of public life. Now an atmospheric ruin, the Agora stands as a monument to the Greek capital's changing fortunes.
• Add to your own collection at Monastiraki flea market. This bustling market is the place to pick up the strange items you never knew you needed. Artillery shells carved by World War I soldiers sit side-by-side with midcentury modern furniture, vintage clothing, and vinyl records. Just exploring this vibrant market is an experience not to be missed.

Transit options near the National Archaeological Museum

• Victoria station is a five-minute walk from the museum and is served by line 1 of the Athens Metro.
• Polytechneio bus stop is right beside the Museum and is served by bus routes 3, 6, 22, 54, and many others.
• The museum is around an 18-minute walk from Athens' main train station and can be reached on bus B5.

Luggage storage near the National Archaeological Museum

While the museum itself sits a little outside the heart of Athens tourist district, it's still very close to all the action. Even the Parthenon, Athens iconic main attraction, is only about a 30-minute walk away. And with its vibrant street life and warm weather, Athens is a city perfect for exploring on foot.

Make it easy on yourself by dropping off your luggage at an Athens luggage storage location. The hills of Athens won't seem nearly so steep when you're not carrying more than you need to. And you can rest assured that your belongings will be safe and secure until you return to pick them up.

Attractions and Activities near the National Archaeological Museum

• Ruins of Athens: No matter where you are in Athens, you can almost always see the Acropolis and the iconic Parthenon that loom over the city. This complex of temple ruins was the heart of religious life in the ancient city, and has become a symbol not just of Athens, but of all of Greece. You can't visit Athens without making the climb up the hill to see some of the most impressive ancient monuments in the world. Make the journey easier on yourself by storing your luggage in Athens before making the climb.
• The Plaka: This neighborhood sits on the slopes of the hill just below the Acropolis, and is one of the most popular places to visit in the city. The narrow streets and quaint whitewashed houses are still a lively part of Athenian life. It’s also a great place to find small businesses and restaurants where you can experience true Greek hospitality.
• Syntagma Square: This central square of modern Athens is the heart of Greek politics and commercial life. The square and the neighborhood surrounding it are always bustling with life, and there is always something going on. Plus, the range of restaurants, cafés, and bars in the area is staggering. It's the perfect place to experience the modern life of this city after exploring its rich and famous history.