Olympia
Save19 hand-picked places in 7 lists. Tick the categories you want to see on the map.
Only have a day? See a ready-made day plan ↓Show on the map
Tips
2 places on the map
Museums
- 1
Superb museum with the Hermes of Praxiteles and temple sculptures.
- Tip: Allow a few hours
2 tips
- Don't miss the Nike of Paionios
- Air-conditioned break from the heat
📷 Photos
- 2
Museum on the history of the ancient Olympic Games and athletics.
3 tips
- Housed in the neoclassical old museum
- Short walk from the town
- Check seasonal hours
📷 Photos
Take this map with you
Opens Google Maps with these places, ready to save to your own list.
Before you go: Olympia tips
Transportation
- Connect via Pyrgos: KTEL buses link Ancient Olympia with Pyrgos, the regional hub with onward buses to Patras and Athens; check times as rural services thin out in the evening.
- Arrive from Katakolo port: Cruise passengers dock at nearby Katakolo; local trains to Olympia run only some seasons, so confirm service or share a taxi.
- Walk everywhere in town: Ancient Olympia village is a single main street, and the archaeological site and museums are all a short walk from hotels.
Security
- Beat the summer heat: Midday at the archaeological site is very hot with limited shade, so go at opening time and carry plenty of water.
- Avoid cruise-ship crowds: Large tour groups from Katakolo arrive mid-morning, so visit the site early or late to explore comfortably.
- Watch your footing: Ancient stones around the Temple of Zeus and the Philippeion are uneven and slippery, so wear sturdy shoes.
Saving
- Buy the combined ticket: One ticket covers the archaeological site and the Archaeological Museum, cheaper than paying separately.
- Use free-entry days: Greek state sites offer free admission on certain days, including some winter Sundays, so check the calendar before you go.
- Eat in tavernas off the main road: Family tavernas a street back from the main road usually serve larger portions for less.
Weather/Clothing
- Pack for hot summers: July and August are scorching, so bring a wide-brimmed hat, sunscreen and breathable clothing.
- Enjoy spring and autumn: April, May, September and October bring mild temperatures and green landscapes around the Kladeos river.
- Bring a rain layer in winter: Winters are mild but wet, so pack a waterproof jacket and closed shoes.
Cultural
- Stand in the ancient stadium: Walking through the stone tunnel into the original stadium is a highlight; races are sometimes recreated by visitors.
- See the Olympic flame site: The flame for the modern Olympic Games is lit at the Temple of Hera, linking the site to today's Games.
- Taste local olive oil: The Ilia region produces excellent olive oil, often served with bread and village salads at tavernas.
Local Hacks
- Visit the Museum of the History of the Olympic Games: This smaller museum in the village explains the ancient Games and is often quieter.
- Climb Kronos Hill: The pine-covered hill above the site offers a peaceful view over the ruins.
- Stop at Kaiafas: The lagoon and beach south of Olympia make a relaxing break after sightseeing.
1-day itineraries in Olympia
Only have a day? Each one keeps you in one area, from morning to late afternoon, with lunch nearby.