Goulandris Natural History Museum

Dedicated to the preservation and presentation of the natural sciences and Greece’s unique habitats and wildlife, Goulandris Natural History Museum has a number of interactive, educational exhibits on display. The family-friendly museum was started by married couple and philanthropists Angelos Goulandris and Niki Goulandris in 1965. Greece’s geology, biodiversity, and ancient history make it a particularly interesting place to study. With large displays of fossils, shells, rocks and minerals — as well as insect, mammal, bird, and reptile species — there is an emphasis on endangered species, environmental issues, and ongoing scientific research.
Museum laboratories are conducting valuable research on local ecology, zoology, and botany, including the discovery of more than 150 new plants while in operation. The museum’s botanic collection has more than 200,000 species documented. Life-size replicas of many animals (even dinosaurs!) help to give a sense of scale. The extensive paleontology exhibit is a highlight for many visitors.

Practical Info

The museum, located in the Kifissia area of Athens, is open Monday to Saturday from 9 am to 2:30 pm and on Sundays from 10 am to 2:30 pm. It is closed on public holidays and cost six euros for general admission. To get there using public transport, take a bus to either Kifissia ISAPStation or Platanos Square.