Ancient Stadium of Olympia
The birthplace of the Olympic Games, where ancient athletes competed and history comes alive.
Highlights
Must-see attractions
Social
From TikTok & Reddit
Best Time
Avoid midday heat
Ancient Stadium of Olympia
Best Time
Avoid midday heat
Highlights
Must-see attractions
The birthplace of the Olympic Games, where ancient athletes competed and history comes alive.
"Visiting the Olympia Stadium in Greece was an unforgettable thrill! I ran the full length of the ancient track, heart pounding."
👟 Wear Comfortable Shoes
Lots of walking on uneven terrain. Prioritize comfort for exploring the vast site.
💧 Stay Hydrated!
Bring plenty of water, especially in summer. The heat can be intense.
Highlights
Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences
The Ancient Stadium Track
Main stadium area
Run where ancient champions once competed! Feel the history beneath your feet.
The Entrance Archway
Entrance to the stadium
Step through the original 200 BC archway, connecting the sanctuary to the stadium.
The Sacred Precinct
Surrounding ruins
Explore temples and buildings steeped in history, the heart of ancient worship and games.
Plans like a pro.
Thinks like you
Planning Your Visit
Beat the Heat and Crowds
Embrace the History
Best Times
Insider Tips
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit
👟 Wear Comfortable Shoes
Lots of walking on uneven terrain. Prioritize comfort for exploring the vast site.
💧 Stay Hydrated!
Bring plenty of water, especially in summer. The heat can be intense.
📸 Capture the Moment
The stadium offers incredible photo opportunities. Imagine the ancient athletes!
🎟️ Combo Ticket Value
Consider a combo ticket for the museum and archaeological site for a fuller experience.
Tips
from all over the internet
👟 Wear Comfortable Shoes
Lots of walking on uneven terrain. Prioritize comfort for exploring the vast site.
💧 Stay Hydrated!
Bring plenty of water, especially in summer. The heat can be intense.
📸 Capture the Moment
The stadium offers incredible photo opportunities. Imagine the ancient athletes!
🎟️ Combo Ticket Value
Consider a combo ticket for the museum and archaeological site for a fuller experience.
🏃♀️ Run the Track
If you can, run the length of the ancient track for an unforgettable feeling.
What Travellers Say
Reviews Summary
Visitors rave about the unforgettable thrill of running the ancient track and the awe-inspiring historical ruins. The site's raw beauty and timeless energy make it a deeply meaningful journey back to the roots of the Olympics. Some find the site extensive and suggest better accessibility options for those with mobility issues.
"Visiting the Olympia Stadium in Greece was an unforgettable thrill! I ran the full length of the ancient track, heart pounding between weathered stone bleachers, feeling like a true Greek champion basking in all the glory. The surrounding ruins—temples and buildings steeped in history—were awe-inspiring and mystic. The site’s raw beauty and timeless energy made every step electric. It’s not just a place; it’s a journey back to the roots of the Olympics. Absolutely epic—don’t miss it!"
mikeynrrr
"It is a wonderful place for those who love history, especially greek history. I really recommend this wonderful archeological site. Tickets for the museum and the archeological site os €10,00. Visitors can buy it personally on the booth tickets.
It is really worth it, nice place for photos and to acquire a little bit of greek ancient culture and mythology."
Felipe Fatarelli
"You have to be up for quite a bit of walking. In the heat, make sure to stay hydrated, I had some exhaustion from the walking and heat. It was surreal to imagine I was at the place where the ancient Olympic games were played.
The history channel should do an episode dedicated to the engineering marvel of the whole area. One recommendation I have is that they should rent like wheelchairs or golf carts, an aid to assist the disabled, sick and elderly to get around the area as it is large."
Manuel Lymberopoulos
What People Like
What People Dislike
Frequently Asked Questions
🚇 🗺️ Getting There
The Ancient Stadium of Olympia is located in Olympia, Greece. You can reach it by car, bus, or as part of an organized tour. Many visitors combine a visit with other Peloponnese attractions.
Yes, there is usually parking available near the archaeological site. It's advisable to arrive early, especially during peak season, to secure a spot.
Intercity buses (KTEL) connect Olympia to major cities like Athens and Patras. The bus station is a short walk from the archaeological site.
While the site is vast, accessibility can be challenging due to uneven terrain. Some visitors have suggested better options like wheelchairs or golf carts for easier navigation.
Many visitors opt for guided tours to fully appreciate the history. Alternatively, you can explore independently with a good map and guidebook.
🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry
Tickets for the museum and archaeological site typically cost around €10.00. Keep an eye out for potential free entry days or discounts, especially for EU citizens.
Tickets can be purchased in person at the ticket booth on-site. It's recommended to buy them upon arrival.
Opening hours vary seasonally. It's best to check the official website or local listings before your visit, as they can change.
For general entry, booking in advance is usually not necessary, but it can save time during busy periods. For special events, advance booking is often required.
Discounts may be available for students, seniors, or EU citizens. It's worth inquiring at the ticket booth or checking the official site.
🎫 🏛️ Onsite Experience
You can explore the original stadium track, the entrance arch, the ruins of temples, training facilities, and the ancient gymnasium.
Yes, many visitors enjoy running the length of the ancient track, experiencing the thrill of where the original Olympic games were held.
Allow at least 1-2 hours to explore the stadium and its surrounding ruins. If you plan to visit the museum as well, allocate more time.
It's the birthplace of the Olympic Games, held every four years from 776 BC to honor Zeus. It was a major religious and athletic center.
Restroom facilities are generally available. It's advisable to carry your own water, as fountains might be limited or seasonal.
📸 📸 Photography
The stadium track itself, the entrance archway, and the panoramic views from the surrounding hills offer fantastic photo opportunities.
Yes, photography is generally allowed throughout the archaeological site. However, always be respectful of the historical artifacts and other visitors.
Early morning or late afternoon provides softer light and fewer crowds, leading to more atmospheric and less obstructed photos.
Drone usage is typically restricted at archaeological sites to protect the heritage and for safety reasons. Check local regulations before flying.
While general photography is permitted, avoid using flash photography in enclosed areas or on delicate artifacts. Respect any posted signage.
For Different Travelers
Tailored advice for your travel style
👨👩👧 Families with Kids
Tips for families:
* Pack plenty of snacks and water to keep energy levels up.
* Make it a game: Have kids count the remaining stone seats or find specific ruins.
* Visit early or late to avoid the hottest part of the day and potential meltdowns.
🚶♀️ History Enthusiasts
+1 You'll walk among the remnants of temples dedicated to Zeus and explore the very grounds where athletes trained and competed for glory. Don't miss:
* The original stadium track for a direct connection to the ancient games.
* The entrance archway, a significant piece of ancient architecture.
* Consider a guided tour to gain deeper insights into the site's rich history and significance.
📸 Photographers
+1Photography tips:
* Golden hour is your friend: Visit at sunrise or sunset for soft, dramatic lighting.
* Focus on the track: Capture the sense of scale and history by photographing people running or standing on the ancient track.
* Look for details: The weathered stones, ancient columns, and archways offer unique close-up shots.
Deep Dives
In-depth insights and expert knowledge
The Birthplace of the Olympic Games
+1Beyond the stadium, the broader archaeological site of Olympia was a significant sanctuary. It included temples, treasuries, and other structures dedicated to Zeus and other deities. The entrance to the stadium, built around 200 BC, was designed to connect the athletic grounds with the rest of the sacred precinct, allowing for a more integrated experience for participants and visitors.
Exploring these ruins offers a profound connection to ancient Greek culture, mythology, and the enduring legacy of athletic achievement. Many visitors describe the experience as surreal and electric, feeling the weight of history as they walk the same grounds as ancient Olympians.
Experiencing the Stadium Today
Beyond the track, the surrounding ruins provide a rich tapestry of history. You can explore the remnants of temples, the gymnasium where athletes trained, and the very entrance arch that athletes and spectators passed through.
The site's raw beauty and timeless energy are palpable, making it a fantastic location for photography, especially during the golden hours of early morning or late afternoon. +1While the site is a testament to ancient grandeur, it's also important to be prepared for the practicalities of a visit. The terrain can be uneven, and the Greek sun can be intense, so comfortable shoes and plenty of water are essential.
Social
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit