Hadrian's Library Tickets

Hadrian's Library overview

Built in 132 AD by Emperor Hadrian, the library was central to Athens' cultural renaissance. Widely regarded as an intellectual oasis, it housed thousands of scrolls and manuscripts. Emperor Hadrian aimed to revitalize Athens as a major cultural center, providing a place for learning and public discourse. Considered a symbol of Roman presence in Athens, Hadrian’s Library served as a testament to the emperor's respect for Greek culture.

Architecturally, Hadrian’s Library reflects Roman grandeur. The complex included a library hall, lecture halls, and administrative offices. Its design featured a vast courtyard flanked by towering columns and framed by a series of rooms on its northern side.The intricacy of its design had a monumental façade made of marble, showcasing the emperor's ambition. The Roman architecture is evident in the structure's spacious halls and detailed reliefs, designed to inspire awe and intellectual pursuit.

Choose the best Hadrian's Library ticket

Athens Multi-Attraction Ticket Pass with Audio Tours

4.4

13,000+ reviews

Includes

  • Reserved access
  • Admission to: Acropolis, Ancient Agora, Hadrian's Library, Lykeion, Temple of Olympian Zeus, Kerameikos and the Roman Agora
  • Audio guide for all attractions in English, German, Italian, French and Spanish

Best price:

€36

Book now

Athens: Acropolis & 6 Sites Ticket Pass with 5 Audio Guides

4.0

450+ reviews

Includes

  • Entry tickets to 7 archaeological sites: Acropolis and Slopes, Hadrian's Library, Ancient Agora, Roman Agora, Olympieion, Kerameikos, Aristotle's School (Lykeion)
  • Timed entry at the Acropolis
  • 4 self-guided multi-lingual audio tours + 1 audio city tour for the smartphone
  • Offline content

Best price:

€48

Book Now

Acropolis Pass + Athens National Archaeological Museum Ticket

4.6

9,300+ reviews

Includes

  • Entry tickets to 7 archaeological sites (Acropolis and Slopes, Hadrian's Library, Ancient Agora, Roman Agora, Olympieion Kerameikos, Aristotle's School (Lykeion))
  • Audio guide for Plaka and Ancient Agora
  • Optional audio guide for all sites in English, French, German, Italian & Spanish
  • Entry to the Athens National Archaeological Museum with audio guide app

Best price:

€54

Book now

Hadrian's Library tickets explained

Where can I buy the tickets?

You can purchase combined tickets for the Hadrian's Library and 6 other popular historical sites from our selection above or singular tickets to Hadrian's Library from the official website. Tickets bought on the official website are non-refundable and don't include guided tours.

How much do the tickets cost?

The basic ticket costs 6€ for adults and 3€ for certain categories, and it's free for EU residents up to 25 years and children younger than 5, as well as people with disabilities with one companion. There is also a combined ticket that includes the Acropolis, the Olympieion, the Ancient Agora, Hadrian's Library, the Kerameikos, Aristotle's School and the Roman Agora for 30€.

What are the opening hours?

The site is open in the summer from 8 AM to 8 PM (last entry 7:30PM), whereas in the winter (Nov to Mar) it opens at 8AM and closes at 3PM (last entry 2:30PM).

Is Hadrian's Library accessible for disabled people?

The archaeological site of Hadrian's Library is partly accessible for wheelchair users through its side entrance on Dexippou Street, whereas the actual Library is fully accessible to wheelchair users. Braille information boards and tactile maps are available for the visually impaired.
A guide for visitors on the autism' spectrum is also available.

What are the rules and regulations of Hadrian's Library?

As for all the other archaeological sites in Athens, visitors are not allowed to touch or climb on any part of the ruins, as this can damage the ancient structures. Eating, drinking, and smoking are also forbidden within the archaeological site to maintain cleanliness and protect the integrity of the temple grounds.
Littering is strictly prohibited. Engaging in commercial activities like unauthorized selling or professional photography without a permit is also restricted. Additionally, pets are not allowed inside, except for service animals.

FAQs and tips