The historic site of the Ancient Olympic Games, Olympia was one of the most influential city-states in ancient times. And while it was largely abandoned during the first millennium of the Common Era, the city’s historical influence can still be seen within the remains of its ancient ruins.
From its most thrilling sites, including its iconic Olympic track and once famous Temple of Zeus, to the best nearby hotels and museums, this is everything you need to know for a fully immersive visit to the Archaeological Site of Ancient Olympia, Greece.
Visit Ancient Olympia, Greece: A Brief Guide
Ancient Olympia Opening Hours:
Summer Hours: 08:00 – 20:00
Winter Hours: 08:00 – 15:30
Ancient Olympia Ticket Prices: €12 general admission; €6 reduced rate
Ancient Olympia Address: Archaia Olympia 270 65, Greece
Nearby Hotels: Leonidaion Guesthouse | Hotel Europa Olympia | Anesi Rooms To Rent
Tours: Olympia – Half-day Tour
Top Sights: Ancient Stadium | Temple of Zeus | Philippeion | Temple of Hera
Ancient Olympia Map
Ancient Olympia: A Brief History
Set within a fertile valley along the western reaches of the Peloponnese, the area around ancient Olympia is believed to have been inhabited since the Neolithic Era (300 BCE), with the city state rising in prominence with the development of its ancient sanctuary of Zeus during the 10th century BCE.
Olympia cemented its status as one of the most famous Greek city-states of the ancient world only a few centuries later, with the very first Olympic Games held in 776 BCE. The games were the most celebrated athletic event in history. They attracted participants from across Greece for over a thousand years, ultimately ending under the reign of Roman Emperor Theodosius I in 439 CE.
Still, Olympia experienced millennia of prosperity throughout the Ancient Olympic Festival. As such, influences from all significant historical periods can still be found in the ancient ruins today, including those from the Geometric and Archaic Periods, the Classical era, the Hellenistic Period, and even the Roman Period.
Unfortunately, Olympia entered a state of decline during the 3rd century CE as a result of earthquakes and successive invasions from nearby tribes. The city’s regression continued with the Olympic Games being outlawed as Pagan Festivals following Rome’s conversion to Christianity.
Over the centuries, Olympia’s influence continued to dwindle until the site was ultimately abandoned towards the beginning of the 7th century BCE, only to be rediscovered a thousand years later in 1766, with excavations beginning in 1829.
Things to See and Do in Ancient Olympia
1. Ancient Stadium
The Ancient Stadium of Olympia was the most famous sporting venue in the world and arguably the most famous in all of history. At the height of its glory, it was able to host up to 20,000 spectators and hosted all of the sporting events of the Ancient Olympics.
While not much of the stadium remains today, visitors can still run the historic 200-metre track once used by Ancient Greece’s most celebrated athletes.
2. Temple of Zeus
Believed to have been built in the 5th century BCE, the Temple of Zeus took thirteen years to complete and occupied an important position in the city-state, honouring the father of the gods.
While the temple itself was impressive, its most famous feature was its Statue of Zeus, which is considered one of the seven wonders of the Ancient World.
Standing at 13 meters high, the statue was made by the famous sculptor Phidias, whose workshops can still be visited at the site, and is believed to have sat upon its throne in Olympia until the temple was destroyed by the Byzantines in 430 CE.
While in ruins today, several of the columns remain to represent what were once the most grand temples dedicated to the worship of Zeus in Greece.
3. Temple of Hera
Built in the 7th century BCE, the Temple of Hera was initially built to honour Zeus and Hera but was converted to just the queen of the gods following the completion of the Temple of Zeus.
Today, only the foundations of the temple remain, but it continues to play an important role in the celebration of the Olympic games. Set adjacent to the original Olympic stadium, the Temple of Hera is where the Olympic Flame is lit every four years as it begins its journey to various host cities around the world during the modern Olympic Games.
4. Town Ruins
While these are just the top sites to see, the Archaeological Site of Olympia is filled with dozens of amazing ruins to explore. The following are just some of the other exciting historical structures you will find at the site, including public buildings, sports facilities, and religious monuments honouring the god Zeus and other Olympian gods.
- The Philippeion
- The Pelopion
- The Metroon
- Nymphaeum of Herodes Atticus
- Palaestra (Wrestling School)
- Hestia Stoa
- The Sacred Grove
- Hellenistic Building
- Nike of Paeonius
- Gymnasion
- Phedias’ Workshop
- Greek Baths
5. Museums
There are two museums associated with the ancient Olympia that you have to visit when exploring the archaeological site.
The first is the Archaeological Museum of Olympia. Here, you will find all the major finds taken from the excavations, including statues, coins, weapons, and artifacts. The keystone exhibit of this museum is the beautiful Nike of Paeonius statue.
The second museum is the Museum of the History of the Olympic Games. Here, you will explore the development of the famous sporting event, from the archaic competitions of Ancient Greece to its conclusion during Roman rule and the influences they have had on modern games.
How to Get to Ancient Olympia, Greece?
Located in the western Peloponnese, Ancient Olympia is about a three-and-a-half-hour drive from Athens. Still, as one of the most popular archaeological sites among tourists, several bus tours connect the ancient site to the capital city daily. Alternatively, many visitors also opt to stay in a nearby city, including Kalamata, Delphi, and Nafplio.
Driving to Ancient Olympia from Athens
Driving to Ancient Olympia from Kalamata
Where to Stay Near Ancient Olympia, Greece?
Modern Olympia is a charming small town just as inviting as its historical ruins. As such, there are plenty of nearby accommodation options to choose from. For a blend of comfort, convenience, and onsite amenities, I suggest either staying at the Hotel Europa Olympia or Leonidaion Guesthouse.
FAQs About Ancient Olympia, Greece
Where is Ancient Olympia, Greece?
Ancient Olympia is located about 16 km west of the Ionian Sea, in the western regions of the Peloponnese peninsula in mainland Greece. The ancient city is adjacent to the modern town of Olympia within the valley of the Alpheus River, about a three-and-a-half-hour drive from Athens.
How Much is Admission at Ancient Olympia, Greece?
Access to the Archaeological Site of Ancient Olympia costs €12 for general admission and €6 for reduced rate discounts, which includes off-season visits. The ticket includes access to both the site and all of its associated museums.
How Long Do I Need to Explore Ancient Olympia, Greece?
Between its ancient ruins and three museums, there is plenty to see in Ancient Olympia. I suggest planning to spend at least 4 hours touring the sites, but really, it should take closer to five to fully experience it all.
The ruins themselves deserve at least two hours to explore and a further hour for each of its museums.
What Are Some Other Archaeological Sites Near Ancient Olympia, Greece?
If you enjoyed exploring the Archaeological Site of Ancient Olympia, you’ll love visiting these other ancient ruins and historical places nearby.
- Archaeological Site of Ancient Messene
- Archaeological Site of Mystra
- Archaeological Site of Ancient Elis
- Archaeological Site of Ancient Megalopolis.
