Haridimos Shadow Puppet Museum and Workshop

If you're looking to get away from the Acropolis tourists for the day, the Haridimos Museum exhibits the collections of the Haridimos family, who were a troupe of puppeteers. Christos, Giorgos and Sotiris Haridimos are known for performing at the Karagiozis shadow puppet theatre, and are on-hand at the museum to give regular guided tours of their collections. You'll witness over 900 displays of characters and sets across this two-tiered building, with a whole range of puppets made from leather, cardboard and tissue paper, as well as old sketches, art and photographs.

The museum also holds free performances, particularly for school groups, within its theatre, and runs puppet-making lessons for both adults and children throughout the week. Lectures and seminars on Greek and international Shadow Theatre are also held on the museum's premises.

Although it is situated slightly off the beaten path, it is easily accessible from the Thissio metro station and serves a great alternative attraction for those seeking the undiscovered side of Athens.

Opening hours:

Tuesday - Saturday: 9am - 1pm and 5pm - 9pm

Sunday: 9am - 1pm