Unusual Museums in Athens (for ‘The curious’)
- ARCADE HOTEL
- Aug 11
- 3 min read
Updated: Aug 12
Athens is full of surprises, and its museums are no exception. Whether you’re into ancient history, modern art, music, or something quirky, there’s a museum here for you. It’s a fun and easy way to dive into Greek culture, learn new things, and see the many different sides of the country’s past and present.
Moreover, visiting these museums gives you the perfect excuse to discover new neighborhoods and step inside some of the city’s most beautiful and iconic buildings.
Staying at Arcade Hotel means you’re right in the city centre, making it easy to get around and explore.
The thing is, most people who come to Athens visit the big or famous museums (like the Acropolis Museum or the National Archaeological Museum) and we completely understand why!
However, beyond the big names, there are also some smaller, lesser-known gems that many visitors miss.
Below, you’ll find both some of the unusual museums and a checklist of the must-see classics.
Museum of Greek Folk
Musical Instruments
"Fivos Anoyanakis"
Explore the Greek musical tradition through a panorama of Greek folk instruments, dating from the 18th century.
Opening hours:
Monday, Wednesday, Thursday: 08:30 – 17:00
Friday, Saturday, Sunday: 08:30 – 20:00
Tuesday: Closed
Address:
Diogenous 1-3, Athens | map
Phone number:
+30 2103254119
Centre for the Study of Modern Ceramics
Discover Greek ceramics and participate in hands-on workshops!
During your visit, you’ll get to know the art, history, and ancient techniques of pottery.
Opening hours:
Monday – Friday: 09.00 – 15.00
Saturday: Closed
Sunday: By arrangement
Address:
Melidoni 4-6, Athens | map
Phone number:
+30 2103318491
The Tactual Museum
Unique in Greece and one of the very few museums in the world designed for the visually impaired of all ages from Greece and abroad (but open to everyone).
There, you are encouraged to touch the exhibits and experience history through your own hands!
Opening hours:
Monday – Friday: 09.00 – 14.00
Saturday & Sunday: Closed
Address:
Doiranis 198, Kallithea, Athens | map
Phone number:
+30 2109415222
Maria Callas Museum
Get to know the woman behind the legendary opera voice.
Opening hours:
Tuesday – Sunday:10.00 – 19.00
Friday:10.00 – 21.00
Monday: Closed
Address:
Mitropoleos 44, Athens | map
Phone number:
+30 2104404204
Museum of Illusions
Enjoy a playful escape from reality.
Opening hours:
Monday – Sunday:10.00 – 21.00
Address:
Ermou 119, Monastiraki, Athens
(Entrance from Astiggos 12) | map
Phone number:
+30 2102201610
Benaki Toy Museum
Step into a world of nostalgia with over 20,000 toys displayed.
Opening hours:
Thursday – Sunday:10.00 – 18.00
Address:
14 Poseidonos & 1 Tritonos | map
Phone number:
+30 2126875280
Kotsanas Museum of Ancient Greek Technology
Meet the genius inventors of ancient Greece through clever reconstructions of their pioneering creations. This interactive museum offers a fun and eye-opening experience for all ages.
Opening hours:
Monday – Sunday:10:00 – 18:00
Address:
Pindarou 6, Athens | map
Phone number:
+30 2114110044
Spathario Museum of Shadow Theatre
Dedicated to Karagiozis, Greece’s beloved shadow puppet character, a truly authentic part of Greek tradition.
Opening hours:
Monday – Friday: 09.00 – 14.00
Saturday: Closed
Sunday: 10.00 – 13.00
Address:
Voriou Ipirou 27, Marousi, Athens | map
Phone number:
+30 2106127245
Herakleidon Museum
It connects the worlds of science, art, and ancient culture through its interactive exhibitions.
Opening hours:
Monday – Sunday: 10.00 – 18.00
Address:
Iraklidon 16, Athens | map
Phone number:
+30 2103461981
Ilias Lalaounis Jewelry Museum
A museum dedicated to one of Greece’s most famous jewelry designers, where you can see unique pieces inspired by ancient Greek art.
Opening hours:
Monday, Tuesday, Thursday, Friday: 09.00 – 15.00
Wednesday & Saturday: 10.00 – 18.00
Sunday: Closed
Address:
Kallisperi 12 & Karyatidon, Athens | map
Phone number:
+30 2109221044
National Museum of Contemporary Art (EMST)
It is housed in a former brewery, showcases modern art by Greek and international artists.
Opening hours:
Friday – Sunday & Tuesday - Wednesday:11.00 – 19.00
Thursday: 11.00 – 22.00
Monday: Closed
Address:
Kallirrois Avenue & Amvr. Frantzi, Athens | map
Phone number:
+30 2111019000