Ancient Olympia, on the western Peloponnese, was the sanctuary of Zeus and the home of the original Olympic Games, which were held there for more than a thousand years. The site is one of the most important in Greece: you walk through the ruins of the Temple of Zeus, the workshop of Pheidias, the remains of the gymnasium and wrestling school and the arched tunnel that leads to the stadium, where you can stand on the original running track and stand where athletes once started their races. A museum nearby holds treasures from the site, including the famed statue of Hermes by Praxiteles. From Zakynthos, the trip is a long but rewarding day. The usual route takes a ferry from Zakynthos Town to the mainland port of Kyllini, and a coach carries you onward to Olympia, with a guide to explain the site, time for lunch and a return in the evening.
The day is long, so prepare. Ferry and coach times are fixed, and the trip often starts early in the morning and returns in the evening. Most of the route is by sea and road, with the ferry crossing taking around an hour or so and the drive to Olympia a further hour or so. Operators handle the tickets and transfers, which makes the day smooth, but the schedule leaves limited free time, so decide in advance whether you prefer a guided tour of the ruins or time to wander the museum on your own.
Dress and gear for a hot, exposed site. Olympia has some shade from pine and olive trees but most of the walking is in the open, on uneven ground, so wear a hat, sunscreen and comfortable shoes. Bring water and snacks, because prices at the site are higher and queues for food can be long in summer. A light scarf helps in the sun, and a small bag is easier to carry than a rucksack. Spring and autumn are better times to visit than midsummer, when midday heat is intense.
The paid product below is a full-day trip from Zakynthos to Ancient Olympia, which handles ferry, coach and a guide. The alternative is to drive yourself, taking your own car on the ferry, but that is slower and more complicated, and many visitors prefer to let an operator arrange it. Check what the price includes, particularly entry fees to the site and museum, which are sometimes sold separately, and what the cancellation terms are if the weather causes the ferry to be delayed.
Consider whether this suits you. For history and archaeology lovers, Olympia is a highlight of any Greek trip and well worth the long day. For families with young children, it can be tiring, though the open track and the idea that this is where the games began captivate many children. If you want a more relaxed holiday, you might prefer to stay on the island and save Olympia for a future mainland trip. Either way, it adds depth to an otherwise beach-centred stay.
Read the site map at the start so that you spend your limited time on what matters most: the Temple of Zeus platform, the entrance tunnel to the stadium and the museum galleries. If you have an energetic child, challenge them to a race along the track, a tradition that has become a happy ritual for many families. Leave a little time for a cold drink in the nearby village before the coach departs.
What to expect
The experience
A ferry crossing to the mainland and a coach to the sanctuary of Olympia, with a guide, free time and a museum visit.
Best time
Spring and autumn, when the open site is cooler than in midsummer.
How long
A full day, often from early morning to evening.
Tips
Wear a hat and comfortable shoes, carry water, check whether entry fees are included and expect an early start.
Quick picks
- Best for
- History lovers who want to add the birthplace of the Olympics to a beach holiday.
- Families
- A long day, but children enjoy the stadium track; take snacks.
- Couples
- A culture day with a relaxed lunch on the mainland.
- Pair with
- A relaxed beach day afterwards and a Zakynthos Town evening.
- Time needed
- Twelve hours or more door to door.
Good questions
How do you get from Zakynthos to Olympia?+
Usually by ferry to the mainland port of Kyllini and then by road to the site, which tours combine into a single day.
Is the trip too long in one day?+
It is a long day, often twelve hours, but organised tours keep it smooth. Consider a night on the mainland if you prefer slower travel.
What will I see at Olympia?+
The Temple of Zeus ruins, the stadium and tunnel, the gymnasium and a museum with famous sculptures.
Are entry fees included?+
It varies, so check what the tour price covers before you book.
What is the best season?+
Spring and autumn are cooler, while midsummer is hot and exposed.