Greece is home to some of the world's most iconic archaeological sites, museums, and monuments. If you are planning a visit, knowing when and how to access these treasures for free or at a reduced rate can make your experience even more enjoyable. This guide breaks down the key details regarding free admission and discounted tickets to state-owned sites in Greece, helping you make the most of your visit.

Throughout the year, Greece offers several days where admission to all state-owned archaeological sites, historical monuments, and museums is completely free. These special dates are:

• March 6 (Melina Mercouri Remembrance Day)
• April 18 (International Monuments Day)
• May 18 (International Museums Day)
• The Last Weekend of September (European Heritage Days)
• October 28 (National Holiday)
• First Sunday of the Month (November - March)

These free days are a great opportunity to explore Greece’s rich cultural heritage at no cost.

In addition to specific free days, certain categories of visitors enjoy free admission throughout the year. These groups include:

• Youth from EU Member States (up to 25 years old): Upon presenting an ID or passport.
• Children from Non-EU Countries (up to 5 years old): Verification through a passport.
• People with Disabilities and One Escort: Proof of disability is required (minimum 67% disability).
• Unemployed Greek Citizens: Must present an ID card and unemployment verification.
• Students and Teachers on Educational Visits: Includes primary, secondary, and tertiary students from EU and EEA countries.
• Large, Single-Parent, and Three-Child Families: Greek families with official status can benefit from free admission.
• Refugees and Military Service Members: Present the appropriate identification documents for free entry.

These categories allow for wide access to Greece's cultural landmarks, encouraging education and inclusivity.

Some individuals are eligible for a three-year free entry pass, which grants ongoing access to sites without the need to reapply. This pass is available to:

• Archaeologists, Historians, and Related Professionals: Graduates and professionals in fields like archaeology, history, and cultural management.
• Active and Retired Employees of the Ministry of Culture: Including those from the Acropolis Museum and other key institutions.
• Educators: Both active and retired teachers in Greece, as well as substitutes, may apply for this pass.

If eligible, these individuals can renew their passes and continue enjoying free access.

From April 1 to October 31, certain groups are entitled to a 50% discount on single tickets, including:

• Non-EU Youth (6-25 years old): Verification through a passport is required.
• Seniors Over 65: From Greece, EU, and EEA countries, with ID or passport verification.
• Parents Accompanying School Visits: From EU and EEA countries.

Additionally, from November 1 to March 31, all visitors enjoy a reduced rate, making it an ideal time to explore Greece’s heritage sites at a lower cost.

By taking advantage of free admission days or ensuring eligibility for free or reduced tickets, you can explore Greece’s archaeological wonders without breaking the bank. Whether you're visiting the Acropolis, Delphi, or the National Archaeological Museum, knowing when and how to access these sites will enhance your cultural experience.

Plan your trip, check your eligibility, and enjoy the beauty and history of Greece's rich cultural heritage!

Hollywood couple Brad Pitt and Angelina Jolie are reportedly preparing to buy the Greek island of Gaia (Sofia Island) located in the Echinades complex of the Ionian.

According to the Washington Post, which mentions US OK! magazine as its source, said that the couple are reportedly thinking about splashing out $4.7 million on the entire island of Gaia (Sofia) so they can enjoy more private holidays together.

The Washington Post also noted that the 43-acre island has secured planning permission for six villas.

To read more, please visit: Greek Travel Pages

Greek subscribers will now have access to online services provided by California-based Netflix, the company announced early in January 2016.  Greece was among 130 countries Netflix recently added to its global network.

New users can benefit from a month-free trial for series and moviesand a monthy subscription starting at €7.99, the company said.  The network produces a number of original series including "House of Cards."

For one monthy price, members around the world will be able to enjoy Netflix original series including Marvel's Daredevil and Mevel's Jessica Jones, Narcos, Sense8, Grace and Frankie and Marco Polo as well as a atalog of licenced TV shows and movies.  In 2016, the company plans to release 31 new and returning original series, two dozen original feature films and documentaries, a wide range of stand-up comedy specials and 30 original kids series - available at the same time to members everywhere.

According to figures released by the company, Netflix had 69.17 million subscribers in October 2015.

To read more, please visit ekathimerini and Netflix

In 2015, international tourist arrivals to Greece grew by seven per cent and reached 23.6 million, while exports generated by the sector increased by six per cent to €14.2 billion.

United Nations World Tourism Organisation secretary general, Taleb Rifai, has expressed the confidence of the organisation in the continued growth of the tourism sector in Greece, saying: “We have no doubt that Greece will maintain a powerful image worldwide as a major tourism destination and that the country will consolidate its growth in 2016, as shown by booking trends.”

This vow of support is timely for Greece as the country is advancing implementation of its new tourism policy framework, launched in 2015 to enhance international tourism. The diversification of the touristic offer benefits Greek hospitality, as does the development of new destinations and the opening of new high-end accommodation facilities and services.

Source: BreakingTravelNews

 

If you have kids, you know how difficult it is to find a restaurant perfect for the whole family. It's not always easy to combine child-friendly foods with dishes adults will love.

Luckily for you, in Athens, where family meals are an important aspect of daily life, there are numerous options. 



Eleftheriadis


Credit: peinirlieleftheriadis.gr

Restaurants serving peinirli–a boat-shaped pizza dough specialty packed with cheese and other tasty fillings, baked in a wood-fired oven and topped with butter– have always been a popular choice for Sunday lunch with kids. The forested northern suburb of Drosia is famous for its peinirli restaurants, and Elefteriadis is one of our favorites. With a large courtyard shaded with pine trees, this is the perfect place to enjoy a nice meal on a sunny day!

Address: 26 Solomou, Drosia
Telephone: 210 6229003

Ama Lachei Stis Nefelis


Credit: @amalaxeinef

Located in Exarchia, the courtyard of this long-standing taverna used to be a schoolyard. The restaurant serves modern Greek cuisine, offering delicious vegetarian options and kid-friendly dishes, including the delicious meatballs - a kid-friendly best-seller. Don't forget to try the sensational Cretan cheese pies with honey and mint as well as the hand-cut fries! 

Address: 69 Kallidromiou, Exarchia, Athens
Telephone: 210 3845978

Hard Rock Cafe


Credit: Hard Rock Cafe

Located in Monastiraki, just a stone’s throw away from the historic city center with stunning views of the Acropolis, Hard Rock Cafe Athens is a must-see for both kids and adults alike. Except for enjoying fresh, high-quality food which includes delicious burgers, steaks, fajitas, and many more there are a number of events going on that the whole family is going to fall in love with. Right now, the Kids Sunday event is back where little Roxtars are invited for some face-painting, handcrafting, and lots of fun with an amateur.

Address: Adrianou 52, Athens
Telephone: 210 3245170

Cupola


Credit: @cupola_trattoria

Who doesn't love pizza? This authentic trattoria is located on a pedestrian strip with a laid-back neighborhood vibe, near the Panathenaic stadium. Perfectly thin, bubbling pizza is baked in a wood-burning oven and topped with genuine Italian ingredients. The panzerotti, a miniature fried calzone, is a hit with kids while the oven-baked conchiglionni ragu is ideal for pasta-lovers. For dessert, try the hand-made cannoli stuffed with ricotta, chocolate chips, and pistachios, which - both children and adults - are guaranteed to fall in love with. 

Address: 13 Eforionos, Pangrati 
Telephone: 211 411 7444

Agroktima Regoukou


Credit: Agroktima Regoukou

This farm-to-table tavern is definitely worth the 45-minute drive or taxi ride from downtown Athens if you want to get away from the hustle and bustle of the city for a day. Surrounded by nature, this restaurant in Stamata is situated on the farm where practically all of the ingredients are sourced. Their famous cheese pie, roast goat, and just-picked salads are not to be missed!

Address: Ektoros, Pangrati 
Telephone: 210 621 7898

Oliver Family House
 

Credit: @oliver_family_house

We saved the best for last since Oliver Family House surely is the most child-friendly restaurant on the list. Located in Glyfada, inside a multiplex, the restaurant is specifically designed for kids of all ages to enjoy endless play and for parents to cherish some moments of relaxation. There you can choose from a lot of creative activities to enjoy as a family. In addition, the restaurant offers an extensive healthy menu with freshly prepared meals, snacks, salads, and delicious desserts using organic products from their own garden.

Address: Leof. Dimarchou Aggelou Metaxa 39, Glifada
Telephone: 21 0898 6066

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