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    Ancient Olympia

    Feel the pulse of history in Ancient Olympia – birthplace of the Olympic Games and a global symbol of peace

    Ancient Olympia is one of the most iconic destinations in the world. Birthplace of the Olympic Games and a sacred site dedicated to Zeus, Olympia is a crossroads of culture, history, and spiritual inspiration. The archaeological site includes the Stadium, Gymnasium, Phidias’ Workshop, the impressive Temple of Hera, and the Temple of Zeus. The Archaeological Museum houses masterpieces such as Praxiteles’ Hermes. Surrounded by olive groves and rivers, Olympia offers a tranquil setting ideal for cultural trips, school visits, and travelers seeking to connect with the roots of Western civilization.

    Highlights

    Palaestra

    Located west of the Altis sacred enclosure near the Kladeos River, the palaestra was part of the 3rd-century BC gymnasium complex and used for boxing, wrestling, and jumping.

    Philippeion

    The only circular structure at the site and one of the finest examples of ancient Greek architecture. Located west of the Temple of Hera, it was dedicated to Zeus by Philip II of Macedon.

    Temple of Hera

    One of the oldest Doric temples in Greece, built in the 7th century BC. This is where the Olympic Flame is lit before each Olympic Games.

    Archaeological Museum of Olympia

    A remarkable museum with artifacts from the archaeological site of Olympia, covering the site's history from prehistory through Roman times. Exhibits include ceramics, offerings to Zeus and Hera, sacrificial ornaments, and statues from the Temple of Hera.

    Temple of Zeus

    Built in the 5th century BC using limestone and marble by a local architect. It once housed the giant gold-and-ivory statue of Zeus, one of the Seven Wonders of the Ancient World.

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    IDEAL DESTINATION

    The birthplace of global ideals of peace and noble competition.

    Olympia is an ideal destination combining monumental history, cultural legacy, and natural calm. As the birthplace of the Olympic Games, it offers a meaningful connection to Western heritage. With world-class museums, temples, the ancient stadium, and stunning nature, Olympia inspires every visitor—families, history enthusiasts, and lovers of authentic Greece.

    Gastronomy – Local Delights & Must-Try Flavors

    The region blends Peloponnesian culinary traditions with authenticity. Enjoy the freshest fish and seafood, accompanied by homemade appetizers. Chicken is a favorite in the Peloponnese—often braised with pasta, fried, roasted, or baked with potatoes (bougana-style). For dessert, sample olive marmalade, traditional spoon sweets, and other seasonal delights made from local produce.

    Best Time to Visit

    The archaeological site is open year-round (except official holidays). Due to high summer traffic, the best times to visit are April and May, and from late September to late October, when the weather is pleasant and crowds are lighter.

    How to get around in Ancient Olympia

    Transportation options to/from the airport

    You can reach Olympia by car or via intercity buses. Olympia is 289 km from Athens, and the drive takes approximately 4 hours. Access to the area is possible either via the Athens-Patras national road or via the new national road toward Kyparissia-Pyrgos through Tripoli.

    Public Transportation

    If you don’t have your own car to get around Olympia and the surrounding area, you can alternatively use taxis or rent a car.

    Questions / Answers

    Q&A

    In Elis, Western Peloponnese – about 3.5 hours by car from Athens.

    Temple of Zeus, Temple of Hera, Stadium, Gymnasium, Council House (Bouleuterion), and Phidias’ Workshop.

    Yes. The Archaeological Museum showcases key artifacts, while the Olympic Games Museum focuses on the history of the Games.

    Yes. The Temple of Apollo Epicurius and the beaches of Kyllini are nearby.

    Absolutely. Olympia is educational, cultural, and safe—ideal for families and school groups.

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    They said about us...

    2025-11-11
    Voyage Fit Cyclades
    Oui nous avons très satisfaits de votre accompagnement et support . Le voyage et les hôtels étaient super! Vous pouvez publier notre avis sur votre site !
    FIT Atenas
    2026-06-22
    FIT Atenas
    El cliente ya he llegado a Portugal y nos hay llamado a dar feedback de su visita/traslado.
    Hay ido todo muy bien, tanto el motorista como la guia fueren muy amables y el servicio fue muy bueno.
    Gracias por todo y hasta una próxima.
    École française
    2025-12-11
    École française
    Je n'ai pas encore eu l'occasion de vous remercier pour ce voyage. Le voyage et les hôtels étaient super !Nous n'avons pas été mouillés et nous avons eu tout ce que nous souhaitions. Nous avons organisé des jeux de type olympique au stade.Tout était parfait.La visite du Parlement était fantastique. Les élèves sont ravis et vous remercient.
    Verhoeve group
    2026-06-09
    Athens 4 days Group Tour from Germany

    Thank you very much for the group to Athens! They had a great time. They were very enthusiastic about the trip & guide Jason. he swimming/beach stop after Corinth was a big plus. They enjoyed the nature as addition to the city and culture. Always good to add that when visiting Corinth.

    The location of the hotel was very good, so a bus transfer in the evening was not always necessary. They could have easily come back via the metro to the hotel. That would have saved us real money.

    Thanks again and looking forward to all the coming groups!

    Group De Lange
    2026-04-30
    Τοur to Greece
    Group De Lange returned from Greece and they were very happy with the tour. Iris was a great guide, programme went very smooth, first driver was very nice. Group is very satisfied about the tour.
     Savita
    2025-07-21
    Αthens, Santorini and Corfu
    My Kids and I loved the trip except for our lost baggage from the Aegean airlines upon arrival at Athens at the start of the trip.Loved all the sightseeing. Tour guides and Pick up services were awesome!! Tour guides were very knowledgeable in their area and history of the city and my kids and I loved that. They answered all our questions. Pick up services were always on time.I just wish I had a little more time in Corfu to do the boat tour as I had planned. Wasn’t able to accomplish that. Loved the wine tasting, Oia and Fira in Santorini. Thank You so much for helping me plan this trip. Great memories made on this trip!!Savita
    2025-05-09
    Group from India
    Thank you so much for your flexibility and support throughout the past weeks – the group ended successfully and we truly appreciate your efforts.
    During the trip, we also received very positive feedback from the tour leader regarding the hotels, restaurants, and the quality of your transportation service. We’re very happy with the overall arrangement and sincerely hope to continue working with you on upcoming groups.
    2024-03-27
    BDA - Scientific meeting
    Mata/ChristineThe feedback from all delegates was very positive about all the arrangements provided by the hotel and your good selves. Accommodation, meals and overall satisfaction from the hotel was very good. The renovated rooms help to bring the best of the hotel – the gala dinner room location was fantastic. Please give this feedback to the hotel too. All the transfers, excursions, the drivers, guide etc were performed professionally and all delegates again had something good to say about your services and the way you have handled the management of these activities. Overall well done. This is a genuine feedback and hope that makes you feel satisfied for a job well done
    ESPA 2021-2026