Greece
Ancient Olympia, the birthplace of the Olympic Games, is one of the most important archaeological sites in Greece. Here you will walk in the footsteps of ancient athletes and discover the history and spirit of the Games.
The largest temple in the Peloponnese, which once housed the gold-and-ivory statue of Zeus, one of the seven wonders of the ancient world. Today, the fallen giant columns bear witness to its size and glory.
The only circular building in the sacred site of Altis, dedicated by Philip II of Macedonia after the Battle of Chaeronea. It is an excellent example of the Ionic order.
Tour of the Sacred Site of Altis
Olympia Archaeological Site · 2 hours
You will explore the imposing Temple of Zeus, which once housed the gold-and-ivory statue, and the older Temple of Hera. Walk among the fallen giant columns and feel the majesty of the most important religious center of antiquity.
Why it's worth it: It is the ideal time to avoid the heat and the large tour groups arriving later.
Running in the Ancient Stadium
Eastern side of the archaeological site · 45 minutes
Walk through the stone crypt, the entrance for athletes, and test your endurance on the track where ancient champions competed. The feeling of standing at the stone starting line (valves) is a unique experience of connection with the Olympic spirit.
Why it's worth it: The energy of the site in the morning is unique for a symbolic sporting activity before the intense midday heat.
Restaurants & Tavernas · Traditional Greek · €€
Cooked dishes like moussaka and stuffed vegetables
Grill Houses · Greek Grill · €
Souvlaki and gyros in pita
Countryside Tavernas · Local Cuisine · €€
Spit-roasted meats and local wine
Bakeries · Breakfast & Snacks · €
Handmade pies and koulouri
The nearest airport is Araxos State Airport (GPA) at a distance of 75km, while Kalamata International Airport (KLX) is about 115km away.
The modern town of Olympia is very small and easily walkable. The archaeological site is a 5-10 minute walk from the town center.
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Sign inBest time to visit
April, May, October
Recommended duration
1-2 days
Estimated cost
80-150€ per person/day
Climate
Mediterranean climate with hot summers and mild, rainy winters.
Language
Greek
Housed in the old museum (Syngroio), it presents the evolution of the games through hundreds of exhibits, from prehistoric times to the early Christian era.
One of the oldest Doric temples in Greece, in front of which stands the altar where the Olympic Flame is lit for every Olympiad.
The area where athletes trained in wrestling, boxing, and pankration. The surviving rows of columns create one of the most photogenic spots of the archaeological site.
Visit to the Archaeological Museum of Olympia
North of the archaeological site · 2 hours
Admire up close the famous Hermes of Praxiteles and the impressive pediments of the Temple of Zeus representing the battle of the Lapiths and Centaurs. The museum houses some of the most important works of classical art worldwide.
Why it's worth it: The air-conditioned space of the museum offers a pleasant respite from the sun during midday hours.
Museum of the History of the Olympic Games
Old Museum (Syngroio) · 1 hour
Discover the evolution of the games through hundreds of exhibits covering the period from prehistory to the early Christian era. You will see bronze figurines, athletic equipment, and inscriptions that bring the daily life of ancient athletes to life.
Why it's worth it: It ideally complements the morning tour of the archaeological site, providing the historical context of the events.
Stroll in the Modern Town of Olympia
Olympia Main Pedestrian Street · 1.5 hours
Walk down the main street with its dozens of folk art, jewelry, and local product shops. It is the right time to buy souvenirs or enjoy a coffee while watching the town's bustle.
Why it's worth it: The town comes alive at night and the atmosphere is very friendly and relaxed.
Modern Olympia Center
Modern Olympia Center · Local Bakeries
Start your day with fresh cheese pie or bougatsa from the traditional bakeries on the main street.
Caption: Handmade cheese pie with Ilia feta
Olympia Main Street
Olympia Main Street · Traditional Greek
Choose a taverna with a courtyard to try cooked-to-order dishes and fresh salads with local olive oil.
Caption: Rooster in red wine sauce with hilopites
Modern Town Square
Modern Town Square · Grill House / Taverna
Enjoy quality grilled meat at one of the tables set out on the pedestrian street.
Caption: Lamb chops and local wine
Visit to the Palaestra and the Philippeion
Western side of the archaeological site · 1 hour
Explore the area where wrestlers trained and admire the unique circular Philippeion with its Ionic columns. The Palaestra with its rows of columns offers some of the most beautiful photo spots.
Why it's worth it: The morning light highlights the architecture of the columns and the quiet allows for contemplation.
Visit to the Archimedes Museum
Center of the modern town of Olympia · 1 hour
Discover the incredible inventions of the greatest mathematician of antiquity through interactive exhibits and machine reconstructions. You will see how ancient cranes, clocks, and siege engines worked.
Why it's worth it: It offers a fascinating look into ancient Greek technology that is often overlooked.
Hiking on Mount Kronion
North of the archaeological site · 1 hour
Follow the trail leading to the top of the lush hill to enjoy a panoramic view of the entire archaeological site and the Alfeios valley. The route is shaded thanks to the pine trees and offers a breath of coolness.
Why it's worth it: The view from above helps you understand the geography and scale of the sacred site.
Visit to the Workshop of Phidias
Archaeological Site (near the Leonidaion) · 30 minutes
See the place where the great sculptor Phidias created the gold-and-ivory statue of Zeus, one of the seven wonders of the world. Today, the foundations of an early Christian basilica built over the workshop survive at this spot.
Why it's worth it: It is a spot of immense historical importance for the art of antiquity.
Walk Along the Banks of the Alfeios
Alfeios River Valley · 1 hour
Close your day with a peaceful walk near the banks of the river closely linked to the mythology of the region. The landscape is idyllic, especially at sunset when the colors reflect on the water.
Why it's worth it: It offers a sense of serenity and connection with the nature surrounding the historical location.
Modern Olympia
Modern Olympia · Healthy / Local
Try strained yogurt with local honey and walnuts at one of the cafes in the main square.
Caption: Yogurt with wildflower honey
Museums Area
Museums Area · Light Meal / Snack
Opt for a light meal with Greek salad and local cheeses to continue your tour.
Caption: Salad with Olympia olives
Olympia Outskirts
Olympia Outskirts · Traditional Grill
Visit a taverna just outside the center to try homegrown meats and local wine.
Caption: Roast piglet (local specialty)
There is a Health Center in the town of Ancient Olympia for emergencies. For more serious issues, the General Hospital of Pyrgos is 20 minutes away by car.
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