
Marathon Run Museum
Discover the birthplace of the marathon and its legendary history, featuring a vast collection of medals and Olympic torches.

Highlights
Must-see attractions

Social
From TikTok & Reddit
Best Time
Fewer crowds, more peaceful

Marathon Run Museum
Best Time
Fewer crowds, more peaceful

Highlights
Must-see attractions
Discover the birthplace of the marathon and its legendary history, featuring a vast collection of medals and Olympic torches.
"A small museum but worth a visit, it will inspire you or assure you that all that training was worth while."

🎟️ Affordable Entry
Tickets are a bargain at just 2 euros, offering excellent value for the rich history and artifacts on display.
🚗 Parking Near Start
If driving, park near the original marathon start point and visit the site before heading to the museum.

Highlights
Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences

Olympic Torches & Medals
Exhibition Halls
Witness Olympic torches from various years and an extensive collection of marathon medals from around the world.

The Story of Stylianos Kyriakides
Special Exhibition Area
Discover the inspiring history of the legendary marathon runner Stylianos Kyriakides and his father's legacy.

Birthplace of the Marathon
Exterior & Nearby
Explore the historical significance of Marathon Town, the site of the ancient Battle of Marathon and the origin of the marathon race.
Plans like a pro.
Thinks like you
Planning Your Visit
Timing Your Visit
Getting There & Around
Best Times
Insider Tips
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit
🎟️ Affordable Entry
Tickets are a bargain at just 2 euros, offering excellent value for the rich history and artifacts on display.
🚗 Parking Near Start
If driving, park near the original marathon start point and visit the site before heading to the museum.
☕ Coffee Break
The coffee bar across from the museum is a great spot for an authentic Greek coffee.
🚴 Cycle Scenic Route
Consider cycling to the museum from the coast; the roads are generally safe and the journey is picturesque.
Tips
from all over the internet
🎟️ Affordable Entry
Tickets are a bargain at just 2 euros, offering excellent value for the rich history and artifacts on display.
🚗 Parking Near Start
If driving, park near the original marathon start point and visit the site before heading to the museum.
☕ Coffee Break
The coffee bar across from the museum is a great spot for an authentic Greek coffee.
🚴 Cycle Scenic Route
Consider cycling to the museum from the coast; the roads are generally safe and the journey is picturesque.
👟 For Runners & Fans
A must-visit for anyone who has run a marathon or is inspired by the sport; it's truly motivating.
What Travellers Say
Reviews Summary
Visitors praise the Marathon Run Museum for its affordable entry fee and extensive collection of medals and Olympic torches, offering a deep dive into the history of the marathon. While some find the film outdated, the overall experience is considered inspiring and well worth the visit, especially for running enthusiasts and history buffs.
"A lovely museum with, as you would expect, articles from the marathon race.
A lovely entrance greets you before you have even entered the building with flags and statues.
The entry fee was 2 euros and is well worth the money for what you get to see.
With every type of medal, from the very first ever race, to modern day with Olympic torches of all types from all the different years, and you learn so much about the people who have taken part since it all began with some very surprising and revealing information on how hard it can be to win one and very easily lost.
Beautifully laid out with information boards and no end of cabinets full of runners medals and trophies.
There is a lovely film show explaining what the word marathon really means.
There are toilets with gents, ladies, and disabled available.
There are some small souvenirs to be bought near the entrance.
Highly recommend if you like history and running."
philip bunch
"We visited the Marathon Museum and gained an in-depth understanding of the origins of the marathon sport. This museum is located in the town of Marathon, which is precisely the birthplace of the historical Battle of Marathon. At that time, the Persian army invaded Greece, and the soldiers and civilians in Marathon fought bravely, ultimately succeeding in repelling the Persian army. After the battle, the military commander dispatched Phidippides to return to Athens with the news of victory. Phidippides ran 42.195 kilometers in one go, reached the foot of the Acropolis in Athens, and died of exhaustion after shouting the news of victory to the commander. Since then, in memory of him, people have held the marathon race. Since the first modern Olympic Games in 1896, the awarding of trophies and medals for each marathon event, as well as the Olympic torch relay activities, have all been held here. The museum houses torches used in all previous torch relays, which are of great commemorative value. All of this is truly awe-inspiring, making us cherish peace even more and commit ourselves to working for the well-being of all mankind. The spirit of sports unites us closely and inspires us to contribute to world peace.
In addition, along the seaside of Marathon Town, there is a row of around dozens of restaurants serving authentic Greek cuisine. Among them, the steaks, potatoes, and Greek yogurt are especially popular. They taste incredibly delicious and authentic, and the prices are very reasonable. I hope everyone can enjoy the pleasure brought by these delightful dishes."
chen Gary
"Interesting setup. Nice collection of marathon around the world. Pitty that some special ones are missing:
- Brussels: marathon in the capital of EU
- Morocco . Marathon du Sables: special edurance
- Istanbul: only Marathon over 2 continents
- highest altitude marathons: like Kilimanjaro or Ladakh or Mont Blanc …
The movie is out dated and not entertaining for children. Best to inform yourself on the history of the Marathon before you go.
The start of the original marathon near the bridge is only 2 min walk away, worth to pass by.
If you are with a car, park at the starting point and visit the spot. Go to yhe museum afterwards.
The coffee bar across the museum is worth stopping for a greec coffee"
Öztürk Taspinar
What People Like
What People Dislike
Frequently Asked Questions
🚇 🗺️ Getting There
You can reach the Marathon Run Museum from Athens via regional buses, which is a cost-effective public transport option. Alternatively, renting a car provides more flexibility for exploring Marathon Town and its surroundings. Cycling is also a popular and scenic way to arrive, especially from the coast.
Yes, Marathon is a popular day trip destination from Athens. Public transport is available, and the journey offers insights into the Greek landscape.
Driving is a convenient option. It's recommended to park near the starting point of the original marathon and visit the historical site before heading to the museum.
Many visitors find the roads safe for cycling, especially when coming from the coast. It's a beautiful way to experience the area.
The travel time can vary depending on the mode of transport, but typically it takes around 45-60 minutes by car or bus from Athens.
🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry
The admission fee is very affordable, costing only 2 euros per person, making it an excellent value for the experience.
Opening hours can vary, so it's advisable to check the museum's official website or local listings before your visit.
Generally, advance booking is not required due to the low entry fee and typical crowd levels, but it's always a good idea to check for any special events.
While the standard entry fee is already very low, keep an eye out for potential special offers or free admission days, especially around marathon events.
Your ticket grants access to all exhibits, including the extensive collection of medals, torches, and historical displays, as well as the film presentation.
🎫 🏃 Onsite Experience
The museum features a vast collection of marathon medals from around the world, Olympic torches, historical artifacts, and informative displays detailing the history of the marathon race and its legendary figures.
While the museum offers historical insights, the film presentation might be outdated and less engaging for younger children. It's best to prepare them with some background information beforehand.
You can easily spend over an hour exploring the exhibits. The atmosphere is breathtaking, and there's a lot to absorb.
The museum primarily focuses on displays of artifacts and historical information, including a film that explains the meaning of the marathon.
Marathon Town is the birthplace of the marathon race, commemorating the legendary run of Phidippides after the Battle of Marathon. The museum is located in this historically significant area.
🍽️ 🍽️ Food & Dining
Yes, along the seaside of Marathon Town, you'll find numerous restaurants serving authentic Greek cuisine. Popular dishes include steaks, potatoes, and Greek yogurt.
The restaurants offer delicious and authentic Greek dishes. Many visitors rave about the quality and reasonable prices of the food.
While there isn't a cafe within the museum itself, there is a coffee bar conveniently located across the street, perfect for a Greek coffee.
The prices at the local restaurants are generally considered very reasonable, offering great value for authentic Greek food.
Steaks, potatoes, and Greek yogurt are frequently mentioned as particularly delicious and authentic choices.
📸 📸 Photography
Photography policies can vary. It's best to check for signage or ask museum staff. Generally, non-flash photography for personal use is often permitted.
Capture the impressive displays of Olympic torches, the diverse collection of medals, and the statues at the museum's entrance. The surrounding historical sites in Marathon Town also offer great photo ops.
Yes, the starting point of the original marathon is a significant historical site and a great place for photos.
The entrance with its flags and statues, as well as the cabinets filled with runners' medals and trophies, make for visually striking photographs.
A camera with good low-light capabilities would be beneficial for indoor shots. A wide-angle lens can help capture the breadth of the medal collections.
For Different Travelers
Tailored advice for your travel style
👨👩👧 Families with Kids
Focus on the visual aspects like the statues at the entrance and the variety of medals. The nearby seaside restaurants offer a more relaxed and potentially kid-friendly dining experience with authentic Greek dishes.
🏃 Dedicated Runners
Learning about legendary runners like Stylianos Kyriakides and understanding the historical significance of the marathon's birthplace will undoubtedly fuel your passion. It's a place to feel the spirit of endurance and achievement.
🏛️ History Buffs
Explore the evolution of the marathon through the Olympic Games and discover the historical context of this iconic race. The museum provides a fascinating narrative that connects ancient Greece with contemporary athletic endeavors.
Deep Dives
In-depth insights and expert knowledge
The Legend of the Marathon
The museum beautifully chronicles this history, showcasing not only the ancient origins but also the evolution of the marathon through the modern Olympic Games. Visitors can learn about the dedication and hardship involved in this iconic athletic event, making the experience deeply inspiring for runners and history enthusiasts alike.
Beyond the historical narrative, the museum celebrates the global phenomenon of marathon running. It features artifacts from various marathons worldwide, highlighting the diverse cultures and communities that embrace this challenging sport. The collection of Olympic torches and medals serves as a powerful reminder of athletic achievement and the enduring legacy of the marathon.
Exploring Marathon Town
For those who enjoy culinary experiences, Marathon Town boasts a variety of restaurants along its seaside. These establishments are renowned for serving authentic Greek cuisine, with particular praise for their steaks, potatoes, and Greek yogurt. The combination of historical exploration and delicious local food makes for a well-rounded day trip.
Getting to Marathon Town is part of the adventure. While public transport is available, many opt for a more flexible approach by renting a car or even cycling, enjoying the picturesque routes that lead to this historically significant location. The journey itself can be as rewarding as the destination.
Collections and Exhibits
Complementing the medals are Olympic torches from various torch relays, symbolizing the continuity and spirit of the Olympic Games. The museum also displays trophies and other memorabilia that offer a glimpse into the lives and achievements of legendary marathon runners, including special features on figures like Stylianos Kyriakides.
Informative display boards and a film presentation further enrich the visitor experience, providing context and deeper understanding of the marathon's historical significance and cultural impact. While the film may be dated, the overall collection provides a comprehensive and awe-inspiring look at the world of marathon running.
Social
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit