Apollon Theatre
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Apollon Theatre

4.6
·519 reviews·Patra, Greece

A stunning neoclassical theatre, the first opera house in Greece, often called 'little La Scala.' A cultural gem in Ermoupoli.

Highlights

Highlights

Must-see attractions

Social content

Social

From TikTok & Reddit

Best Time

Festival Seasons

Experience vibrant cultural events

CrowdHigh
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Apollon Theatre

Apollon Theatre

Best Time

Festival Seasons

Experience vibrant cultural events

CrowdHigh
Highlights

Highlights

Must-see attractions

A stunning neoclassical theatre, the first opera house in Greece, often called 'little La Scala.' A cultural gem in Ermoupoli.

4.6
(519 reviews)

"A truly magnificent historical building and beautiful theater room."

Vertical photo
TIP

🎭 Check Show Schedule

Always check the theatre's official schedule for performances and exhibitions before your visit.

🎟️ Book Tickets Online

For popular shows, especially during festivals, booking tickets in advance is wise.

Third hero image

Highlights

Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences

Architectural Gem

Architectural Gem

Ermoupoli, Syros

A stunning neoclassical building, often called 'little La Scala,' showcasing exquisite 19th-century design and craftsmanship.

Art Exhibitions

Art Exhibitions

Gallery spaces

Discover original artwork and rare materials from Greek animation pioneers at special exhibitions.

Live Performances

Live Performances

Main Auditorium

Experience a range of shows, from musicals and plays to concerts and dance performances.

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Planning Your Visit

Book Ahead for Popular Shows

The Apollon Theatre hosts a variety of performances, from musicals to art exhibitions. For popular events, especially during festival seasons, booking tickets in advance is highly recommended to avoid disappointment. Check their schedule online.

Check for Special Events

Beyond regular performances, the Apollon Theatre is a hub for cultural events like the Animasyros festival and tango festivals. Keep an eye on local listings or social media for unique happenings that might coincide with your visit.

Best Times

When
Festival Seasons
Why
Experience vibrant cultural events
Crowd
High
When
Weekday Evenings
Why
Catch local theatre productions
Crowd
Medium

Insider Tips

from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit

تعرفوا معانا على عاصم بالتوهامي، المكون ! #apollon #theatre #association #nouba #assembettouhami #عاصم_بالتوهامي #art
apollonassociation
67 likes • 1.9K views

🎭 Check Show Schedule

Always check the theatre's official schedule for performances and exhibitions before your visit. Instagram

🎟️ Book Tickets Online

For popular shows, especially during festivals, booking tickets in advance is wise. Instagram

🎨✨ Great Greek Masters Exhibition ✨🎨 📍 Θέατρο Απόλλων | Apollon Theatre 📅 Τετάρτη 24.09 – Κυριακή 28.09 🕙 10:00–13:00 & 16:00–00:00 Ανακαλύψτε αυθεντικά σχέδια και σπάνιο υλικό από τα στούντιο των πρωτοπόρων του ελληνικού ανιμέισον! 🇬🇷🎬 Discover original artwork and rare material from the studios of Greece’s animation pioneers. 🌟 #Animasyros2025 #Animasyros #GreatGreekMasters #AnimationHistory ...
animasyros
0 likes • 852 views
Look what I found! Apollon Theatre Patras 2012 "Ta karnavalika" musical show @karnavaliko_komitato_patras
fani.tsai
49 likes • 519 views

🏛️ Admire the Architecture

Even if no show is on, the building itself is a masterpiece worth seeing. Reddit

📸 Great Photo Ops

Capture the beauty of this historic theatre, both inside and out. Instagram

Άντε τώρα να έρθεις στο νησί και να μην ζήσεις την εμπειρία μιας θεατρικής παράστασης, μιας standup κωμωδίας, ενός κονσέρτου, ενός performance ή ενός μουσικού αφιερώματος στο μαγευτικό Θέατρο Απόλλων! 🎭 _________ Facts: Many travellers are drawn to #syrosisland solely for its awe-inspiring cultural marvels. ✔️ Apollon Theatre 🎭 #discovergreece #culturetrip Content Creator: @nikolaos_panou
syrosislandgr
882 likes • 19.5K views

Tips

from all over the internet

🎭 Check Show Schedule

Always check the theatre's official schedule for performances and exhibitions before your visit. Instagram

🎟️ Book Tickets Online

For popular shows, especially during festivals, booking tickets in advance is wise. Instagram

🏛️ Admire the Architecture

Even if no show is on, the building itself is a masterpiece worth seeing. Reddit

📸 Great Photo Ops

Capture the beauty of this historic theatre, both inside and out. Instagram

What Travellers Say

4.6
(519 reviews)

Reviews Summary

Visitors consistently praise the Apollon Theatre for its magnificent neoclassical architecture and historical significance, often calling it a 'little La Scala.' It's celebrated as a cultural gem and a vital part of the city's identity, hosting quality performances. However, some reviews mention the building appearing rundown or being closed during visits, suggesting checking operational status beforehand.

"Apollon Theater is a beautiful neoclassical building, situated on the east side of King George's Square (Patra's main square).
This remarkable building is the oldest lyric theater in Greece.
It was designed by the German architect Ernst Ziller and errected at 1872.
It is a true architectural gem, since it constitutes a replica of the La Scala in Milano.
The materials chosen for its construction were some of the most expensive during that era, and were brought from far away (Italy and England). The building was renovated three times, with the latest being from 1969 to 1972 and it has a seating capacity of 450 people.
Bottom line: beautiful site in "strategic location"!"

Y.H.

"It’s a beautiful building with a grade history, but it’s very rundown full of graffiti, and it was closed."

Silke “SilkeGlobal” Wettergren

"Very nice and old building built by architecture Chiler. Most of the pleys here are quality"

Damianos Bran

What People Like

Stunning architecture
Historical significance
Quality performances

What People Dislike

Appears rundown
Sometimes closed

Frequently Asked Questions

🚇 🗺️ Getting There

The Apollon Theatre is centrally located in Ermoupoli, on Syros island. It's easily accessible by foot from most parts of the town. If arriving by ferry, it's a short walk from the port. Instagram

Parking in Ermoupoli can be challenging, especially during peak season. It's best to walk if you are staying in the town center. If driving, look for public parking areas a few blocks away. Reddit

Yes, the theatre is a significant historical landmark. While the main draw is performances, you can often admire its architecture from the outside and inquire about visiting the interior during non-performance hours. Reddit

🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry

Tickets are typically available online through the theatre's official website or associated ticketing platforms. You can also often purchase them at the box office on the day of the performance, though popular shows may sell out. Instagram

Opening hours vary depending on whether there are performances or exhibitions. For specific events like the Great Greek Masters Exhibition, hours were 10:00–13:00 & 16:00–00:00. Always check the current schedule. Instagram

Ticket prices vary significantly based on the type of performance, seating location, and any special events. It's best to check the specific event listing for accurate pricing information. Reddit

Discounts may be available for students, seniors, or groups, depending on the performance. Inquire at the box office or check the ticketing website for any available concessions. Reddit

🎫 🏛️ Onsite Experience

The Apollon Theatre has a seating capacity of approximately 450 people, making it an intimate venue for performances. Reddit

Information on accessibility can vary. It's advisable to contact the theatre directly in advance to confirm specific accessibility features and arrangements for visitors with mobility challenges. Reddit

The theatre hosts a diverse range of events, including plays, musicals, concerts, dance performances, and special cultural festivals like Animasyros and tango festivals. Instagram+2

Photography policies can differ per event. Generally, flash photography is prohibited during performances to avoid disturbing the audience and performers. Check with staff on-site for specific guidelines. Instagram

📸 📸 Photography

The exterior architecture, especially the facade, offers great photo opportunities. Inside, the auditorium with its ornate details and stage area are also popular subjects. Instagram

Typically, taking photos or videos during a live performance is not permitted to ensure the best experience for all attendees and performers. Always respect the venue's rules. Instagram

For Different Travelers

Tailored advice for your travel style

👨‍👩‍👧 Families with Kids

The Apollon Theatre can be a wonderful experience for families, especially if there are child-friendly performances or exhibitions scheduled. The Animasyros festival is a prime example, offering animated films and art that can captivate younger audiences. Instagram While the theatre itself is a historical site, check the specific event listings for age recommendations and content suitability. Reddit

Consider attending during daytime exhibitions or matinee performances if available, as these are often more accommodating for families. The central location in Ermoupoli also makes it easy to combine a theatre visit with other family-friendly activities on Syros. Instagram

🏛️ History & Architecture Enthusiasts

For those fascinated by history and architecture, the Apollon Theatre is a must-visit. Its status as the first opera house in Greece and its striking resemblance to Milan's La Scala make it a significant cultural monument. Instagram Explore the neoclassical design, learn about its construction with imported materials, and appreciate the efforts made in its preservation and renovation. Reddit

Even if you don't catch a performance, a visit to admire the building's facade and interior (if accessible) offers a deep dive into 19th-century European architectural influences on Greece. The theatre stands as a proud symbol of Ermoupoli's rich past and its enduring commitment to the arts. Instagram

Deep Dives

In-depth insights and expert knowledge

A Glimpse into History and Architecture

The Apollon Theatre is a significant cultural landmark, renowned for its stunning neoclassical architecture. Built between 1862 and 1864, it was the first opera house in Greece and is often described as a 'little La Scala' due to its inspiration from the famous Milanese opera house. The German architect Ernst Ziller designed this gem, using expensive materials imported from Italy and England. Instagram The theatre has undergone several renovations, with the most recent major one completed between 1969 and 1972, preserving its historical grandeur while ensuring its functionality. Reddit

This architectural masterpiece is not just a beautiful building; it's a testament to the cultural aspirations of its time. Its strategic location in Ermoupoli, the capital of Syros, makes it a focal point for the island's vibrant arts scene. Visitors often marvel at the intricate details and the overall ambiance that transports them back to a different era. InstagramReddit

Beyond its architectural beauty, the Apollon Theatre has a rich history of hosting a wide array of performances. From classical plays and musicals to contemporary dance and concerts, it has been a stage for countless artistic expressions. Its intimate seating capacity of around 450 people ensures a personal and engaging experience for every audience member. InstagramReddit

Experiencing Performances at Apollon Theatre

The Apollon Theatre is a dynamic venue that comes alive with a diverse program of events throughout the year. It's a key location for cultural festivals, such as the Animasyros International Animation Festival, where it screens films and hosts exhibitions showcasing the work of animation pioneers. Instagram+1 Visitors have also enjoyed tango festivals, highlighting the theatre's versatility in hosting various artistic disciplines. Instagram

Beyond festivals, the theatre regularly presents local and touring productions. These can range from traditional Greek plays and musicals, like the 'Ta Karnavalika' show mentioned in one reel, to concerts and other performing arts. Instagram The acoustics and sightlines are generally praised, offering a great viewing and listening experience from most seats, often without the need for microphones. Reddit

To make the most of your visit, it's highly recommended to check the theatre's schedule in advance. For popular events, booking tickets early is advisable, as shows can sell out. Instagram Whether you're interested in animation, dance, music, or theatre, the Apollon Theatre offers a memorable cultural experience in the heart of Syros. Instagram