Ancient Olympia

Ancient Olympia - Birthplace of the Olympic Games:

While competitive sacred athletic games date back to at least Minoan Crete, the official "birthplace" of the Olympic Games is at Olympia in the Peloponnese peninsula. The first Games are said to have been held there in 776 b.c.e. A wooden Temple to Hera and Zeus was the first substantial structure, though the remains of some Bronze Age houses are at the edges of the site.

How to Get to Olympia:

The ancient site of Olympia can be reached by road, but it is a long journey from Athens and most places on the peninsula as it is located on the far side of the Peloponnese. Roads cutting across the peninsula do provide access to Olympia, but they are winding. Travelers may prefer to take the ring road around the peninsula to Katakolon and drive up from there - but watch out for the tour buses.

Olympia - Visiting it from a Cruise Ship:

No, Olympia is not a port and it is not on the water. But many cruise ships stop at Katakolon on the western coast of the Peloponnese Peninsula, and then transfer passengers by bus to the site of Ancient Olympia.

What Can I See at Olympia?:

Olympia's ruins are impressive. You can visit the original Olympic Stadium, walk through the remains of some of the buildings where athletes trained and temples where they made offerings, and visit the excellent on-site museum.

What's the Best Time to Visit Olympia?:

Olympia is especially beautiful in the spring, when the pink-flowered trees are blossoming and the ruins are carpeted with green.

Modern Olympia:

Near the ancient site of Olympia is a modern town also called Olympia. It has a train station, hotels, and other services. If you've driven to Olympia, you may want to consider staying overnight here.

Hours and Ticketing Information for Ancient Olympia:

The site is open from 8am to 7:30pm in summer. Admission is six Euros. Olympia is closed on March 25th, Greek Independence Day. Call for additional information: (From the U.S., add 011 30) 26240 22517.

And Don't Miss the Ancient Hotel:

You may feel you've seen enough hotels on your trip to Greece, but take a moment to glance at the Leonidaion, an ancient version which was built to accommodate visitors and athletes. Even in ancient times, Olympia was on the tourist circuit.Find & Compare Flights to Athens

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