Odeon of Herodes Atticus

As a travel enthusiast and lover of all things Greece, I have to explore the Odeon of Herodes Atticus each time I visit Athens. This ancient theatre, nestled at the foot of the Acropolis of Athens, is a shining example of the city’s rich history and cultural charm. Not only is it one of the top things to do in Athens, but it’s also a unique opportunity to experience a stunning architectural brilliance that continues to captivate visitors from all over the world.

As you make your way to the Odeon of Herodes Atticus on your eventual path to the Parthenon, you’ll be enchanted by the beauty of the Acropolis itself, one of the most famous tourist attractions in the world. Built in 161 AD, this ancient theatre is situated on the south slope of the Acropolis of Athens, offering breathtaking views of the city below. The dramatic contrast between the ancient stone structures and the vibrant cityscape is genuinely awe-inspiring and serves as the perfect backdrop for your visit to the Odeon.

Upon entering the Odeon of Herodes Atticus, you’ll be struck by the sheer size of this ancient theatre. With a seating capacity of around 5,000 spectators, it’s easy to imagine the grandeur of the events that once took place here. Its outstanding preservation sets the Odeon apart from other attractions in Athens. While the passage of time has undoubtedly left its mark, the theatre has been carefully restored to maintain its original charm and allure. As you walk around the stone steps and admire the stunning arches, you can’t help but feel a connection to the history that surrounds you.

One of the best things to do in Athens is to catch a performance at this ancient theatre. But the Odeon of Herodes Atticus isn’t just a great historic site – it’s also a thriving venue for modern-day concerts and events. With an impressive line-up of local and international artists, the Odeon offers a diverse range of concerts and shows that cater to all tastes. From classical music to contemporary performances, there’s something for everyone to enjoy.

Experiencing a concert at the Odeon of Herodes Atticus is truly a once-in-a-lifetime opportunity. The atmosphere becomes absolutely magical as the sun sets and the stage lights up. The acoustics of this ancient theatre are simply phenomenal, with the sound resonating beautifully throughout the space. Listening to music in such an enchanting setting is an experience that you’ll cherish long after you’ve left Athens.

So, which singers, performers, and bands have played at the Odeon of Herodes Attcicus? Well, here’s a list of about 40: Alvin Ailey American Dance Theater, Andrea Bocelli, Angelo Branduardi, Charles Aznavour, Dave Brubeck, Diana Ross, Dionysis Savvopoulos, Elton John, Ennio Morricone, Eros Ramazzotti, Foo Fighters, Goran Bregović, Haris Alexiou, Jethro Tull, Joaquín Cortés, José Carreras, Leonard Cohen, Liza Minnelli, Luciano Pavarotti, Maria Callas, Mikis Theodorakis, Nana Mouskouri, Paco de Lucía, Patricia Kaas, Plácido Domingo, Procol Harum, Ray Charles, Roberto Alagna, Roger Waters, Royal Ballet, Shirley Bassey, Sting, The Bolshoi Ballet, The Tokyo Ballet, Vanessa Mae, Vangelis, Yanni, Zucchero.

Aside from concerts, the Odeon also hosts a variety of activities and events throughout the year. From theatre performances to dance shows, there’s always something exciting happening at this iconic venue.

In conclusion, the Odeon of Herodes Atticus is truly one of the most remarkable attractions in Athens. From its awe-inspiring setting at the foot of the Acropolis to its rich history and vibrant calendar of events, this ancient theatre offers an unparalleled experience for visitors. With so many incredible concerts, activities, and attractions to choose from, there’s no doubt that a visit to the Odeon of Herodes Atticus will be a highlight of your trip to this enchanting city. Don’t miss out on the chance to immerse yourself in the captivating atmosphere of the Odeon and create lasting memories of your time in Athens.

Here are my personal recommendations of the top things to do and see at the Odeon of Herodes Atticus:

Experience live performances

One of the top things to do is to attend a live performance. The ancient theatre’s incredible acoustics and the magical atmosphere make each concert or event a truly unforgettable experience. From classical music to contemporary shows, there’s always something happening at this iconic venue that caters to all tastes.

Admire the architecture

One of the top things to see at the Odeon of Herodes Atticus is its stunning architecture. Built in 161 AD, the theatre’s impressive arches, stone steps, and seating arrangements reflect the craftsmanship of that era. Take a moment to appreciate the architectural brilliance of this ancient theatre while imagining the grandeur of events that once took place here.

Soak in the views

The Odeon of Herodes Atticus is situated on the south slope of the Acropolis of Athens, offering breathtaking views of the city below. As one of the top things to see, make sure to take in the spectacular panorama of Athens and the surrounding landscape while visiting this historic gem.

Explore the history

Delve into the rich history of the Odeon of Herodes Atticus as you walk around the theatre. Discover the fascinating stories behind its construction, restoration and the famous personalities who have performed here over the years. Learning about the Odeon’s past will give you a deeper appreciation of its significance in Athens’ cultural heritage.

My advice for the best places for photos, videos, and even the perfect Instagram at the Odeon of Herodes Atticus:

Capture the theatre’s architecture

One of the best spots for top photos at the Odeon of Herodes Atticus is its majestic arches and seating area. The intricate details and stone structures make for an impressive backdrop, showcasing the theatre’s unique charm. Capture the essence of ancient architecture and the timeless beauty of this historic venue with your mobile phone.

Panoramic city views

The Odeon of Herodes Atticus offers an excellent vantage point for capturing panoramic views of Athens. Snap stunning photos or videos of the cityscape below, immortalising the striking contrast between the ancient Acropolis and modern Athens. This breathtaking perspective will definitely make for a perfect Instagram shot that will leave your friends in awe.

Stage and performance magic

When attending a concert or event at the Odeon, don’t miss the opportunity to take photos or videos of the enchanting stage. The combination of atmospheric lighting and the ancient setting creates a magical scene perfect for capturing your experience’s essence. These moments will make beautiful memories and help you relive the magic of the Odeon’s performances.

Historic ambience

Finally, take a moment to capture the historic ambience of the Odeon of Herodes Atticus. Whether it’s the sunlight filtering through the arches or the shadows cast by the stone seating, these subtle details add depth to your photos and videos. By focusing on the atmosphere, you’ll create visual souvenirs that evoke the spirit of this ancient theatre.

These are my top tips (Ian’s tips if you will) for when visiting the Odeon of Herodes Atticus:

1. As I mentioned in “Book Online”, because the Odeon of Herodes Atticus is part of the Acropolis of Athens, which includes the Parthenon, I highly recommend you book in advance. Take it from me when I say that it’s been the best way to jump the queues and save money over the years. You can choose from many tickets right here, Not only do I enjoy savings of up to 50%, but I also bypass the long queues of tourists waiting to enter these popular sites. Trust me, investing in this ticket makes my Athens adventure so much smoother and more enjoyable. 
2. Plan your visit around a performance: Check the event schedule and try to time your visit to coincide with a concert or performance at the Odeon. This will allow you to experience the venue’s incredible atmosphere and acoustics in action.
3. Wear comfortable shoes: The ancient theatre’s steps and surfaces can be uneven, so make sure you wear comfortable, sturdy footwear to navigate the site safely and comfortably.
4. Bring a light jacket or shawl: Even during the summer months, evenings can get cool, especially if you’re attending an outdoor performance. A light jacket or shawl will ensure you stay comfortable throughout the event.
5. Stay hydrated: Athens can be hot, particularly in the summer months, so remember to drink plenty of water and stay hydrated while exploring the Odeon of Herodes Atticus and other nearby attractions.
6. Respect the site: The Odeon of Herodes Atticus is a significant historical site, so be mindful of its importance and help preserve it for future generations. Follow any posted guidelines, avoid touching ancient structures, and don’t litter.

Here’s my advice regarding access for those with disabilities and/or impairments at the Odeon of Herodes Atticus:

Access for visitors with disabilities and/or impairments at the Odeon of Herodes Atticus can be somewhat limited due to its ancient structure and uneven surfaces. However, there are some provisions in place to assist those with mobility issues:

1. Wheelchair access: There is a designated area for wheelchair users, usually located close to the stage. This area is accessible via a ramp, allowing visitors with mobility impairments to enjoy performances at the venue. However, navigating the site’s uneven terrain and steps might still be challenging.
2. Assistance: It is recommended that visitors with disabilities or impairments bring a companion to assist them throughout their visit to the Odeon. This can help make their experience safer and more enjoyable.