The Benaki Museum in Athens, Greece, is known for its extensive cultural exhibits spread across multiple venues. As of 2024, the entrance fee for the main museum at Koumpari Street is 12€, with a reduced rate of 6€ available for children, students, and seniors. Admission for EU citizens under 25 and children under 5 is free. Additionally, on select days throughout the year, the Benaki Museum offers free entry, typically on major holidays and the first Sunday of each month from November to March. Opening hours vary depending on the museum’s location, with the main branch generally open from 10:00 AM to 6:00 PM on weekdays and having extended hours on Thursdays.
About the Benaki Museums
Founded by Antonis Benakis in 1930, the Benaki Museum collection spans various eras, encapsulating Greece’s rich and multifaceted history. Its exhibitions cover prehistoric to modern Greek art, with over 20,000 artifacts and pieces spread across multiple museum branches. The main building is a neoclassical mansion housing artifacts that trace Greek history from antiquity to modern times, featuring everything from ancient pottery and Byzantine relics to folk costumes and contemporary Greek art. This combination provides a unique journey through Greek culture and history that isn’t often found in other museums.
The Benaki Museums in Athens
The Benaki Museums in Athens
Benaki Museum
Given the museum’s extensive collection, we suggest setting aside at least two to three hours to explore the main branch alone. For those interested in specific aspects of Greek culture, there are also specialty branches, such as the Museum of Islamic Art, the Ghika Gallery, and the Pireos Street Annex, each offering unique perspectives and housed in distinct architectural settings. Each branch has been curated with a clear theme, making it easy for visitors to explore subjects of personal interest in depth.
In terms of nearby amenities, the main Benaki Museum location in central Athens is conveniently close to Syntagma Square, offering plenty of dining options and cafes perfect for a post-visit break. Nearby we recommend the traditional Greek taverna ‘To Kafeneio’ serving authentic local cuisine. Additionally, a stroll down Ermou Street offers plenty of souvenir shopping opportunities, making it easy to find keepsakes reflecting your journey through Greek art and history. If you’re exploring the Pireos Street Annex, we recommend trying some of the newer, trendier cafes in the Gazi district, which are known for their lively atmosphere and creative offerings.
After visiting on October 15, 2024, we found the Benaki Museums to be well worth the visit for both history enthusiasts and casual visitors alike.