Athens Herodes Atticus theatre

Location: Acropolis

The Odeon of Herodes Atticus in Athens: Built at the base of the Acropolis, the ancient amphitheatre of Herodeion, also known as the Odeon of Herodus Atticus, is today one of the best places to experience a live classical theatre performance. This ancient theater was built in the Roman times, in about 161 A.D. by the Roman philosopher, teacher and politician Herodes Atticus. It was built in the memory of his wife Aspasia Regilla who died in 160 AD.

Related Tour: Full-day Athens tour with Cape Sounion, from 125.00 €

This semi-circular amphitheater has a wide 1,250 feet radius with a seating capacity of more than 6,000 people. The original wall of the stage stood three storeys high and was decorated with marbles and ceramic pieces while today it stands in ruins. The stage and seating area was laid with marble while it has been renovated today. A cedar-wooden roof covered the theatre in the ancient times.

Today you can attend the Athens Art Festival, musical concerts and classical tragedies under the night sky with a marvelous acoustic experience. All events are held from May to early October since the theatre is open. The Herodeion Theatre stands on Dionysiou Areopagitou Pedestrian Street, right under the Acropolis.

How to get there

There are many ways to reach the Theatre of Herodes Atticus, from any location in Athens.

Tours: Discover the Theatre of Herodes Atticus with an organized tour, starting from 125 euros.

Private transfers: We recommend using an online pre-booked Athens transfer service, which provides transfer by taxi, minibus or private VIP car and arranging a pickup directly from the port, airport or your hotel. Alternatively, there’s the option of arranging a pickup by a local driver directly at the following numbers: 0030 693 881 8288, 0030 694 597 2090, 0030 690 943 9292 or book your taxi online.

On foot: As the Theatre of Herodes Atticus is located in a central area of Athens, it can be easily reached on foot from Acropolis metro station, in approximately 10 minutes.

By metro: The closest metro station is “Acropolis” on line 2. Note that the Theatre of Herodes Atticus is located within a 10-minute walking distance from the metro. Get a map of the metro here.

By bus/trolleybus: The closest bus stop is “Apheteria” of the bus line 230. The Acropolis Museum is located within a 2-minute walking distance from the bus stop. Check the routes and the official timetables on OASA Telematics.