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Temple of Olympian Zeus Tickets
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- Enter the ruins of the once largest temple in Greece, built in honor of Zeus.
- Your multilingual audio guide might surprise you with a lesser-known fact: the Temple of Olympian Zeus was likely never actually finished – and that includes the roof.
- Gaze upon the 17-meter Corinthian columns of Pentelic marble. Imagine their shadows stretching long across the ground, dwarfing you as you stand beside them.
- Notice the sturdy, fluted Doric style contrasting with the more ornate acanthus leaf capitals of Corinthian design above.
- Don't miss the whispers of Roman life scattered around the ruins! Look for remnants of the Roman bathhouse beside the temple complex.
- Enter the ruins of the once largest temple in Greece, built in honor of Zeus.
- Your multilingual audio guide might surprise you with a lesser-known fact: the Temple of Olympian Zeus was likely never actually finished – and that includes the roof.
- Gaze upon the 17-meter Corinthian columns of Pentelic marble. Imagine their shadows stretching long across the ground, dwarfing you as you stand beside them.
- Notice the sturdy, fluted Doric style contrasting with the more ornate acanthus leaf capitals of Corinthian design above.
- Don't miss the whispers of Roman life scattered around the ruins! Look for remnants of the Roman bathhouse beside the temple complex.
Inclusions
- Entry to Temple of Olympian Zeus
- Audio guide in English, Spanish, German, Italian, Spanish and Chinese
- Service fee
- Tip: After your visit, unwind in the National Garden next door. This peaceful green space offers a lovely contrast to the historical ruins.
- This ticket includes all the parts of the attraction.
- This attraction is not wheelchair accessible.
- These tickets can't be cancelled or rescheduled.
- Dive into Athens’ ancient treasures with a single pass, which grants you savings of up to 50% and entry to 7 iconic archaeological wonders.
- This multipass ticket gives you access to the Acropolis & Parthenon, Ancient Agora, Roman Agora, Temple of Olympian Zeus, Hadrian's Library, Kerameikos, and Aristotle's School.
- Gain insights from your audio guide as you explore the Ancient Agora and the historical town of Plaka, and upgrade to include an audio guide for Acropolis.
- Make your way to the Parthenon, a UNESCO World Heritage site with 2,500 years of rich history, and visit the Acropolis Hill with a time-slotted e-ticket.
- From the towering Temple of Olympian Zeus to the whispers of the past at Aristotle’s School, every site gives you insights into ancient Greece.
- Dive into Athens’ ancient treasures with a single pass, which grants you savings of up to 50% and entry to 7 iconic archaeological wonders.
- This multipass ticket gives you access to the Acropolis & Parthenon, Ancient Agora, Roman Agora, Temple of Olympian Zeus, Hadrian's Library, Kerameikos, and Aristotle's School.
- Gain insights from your audio guide as you explore the Ancient Agora and the historical town of Plaka, and upgrade to include an audio guide for Acropolis.
- Make your way to the Parthenon, a UNESCO World Heritage site with 2,500 years of rich history, and visit the Acropolis Hill with a time-slotted e-ticket.
- From the towering Temple of Olympian Zeus to the whispers of the past at Aristotle’s School, every site gives you insights into ancient Greece.
Inclusions
- Timed entry to Acropolis Hill
- Entry to 7 archaeological sites: Acropolis and Slopes, Ancient Agora, Roman Agora, Temple of Olympian Zeus, Hadrian's Library, Kerameikos, and Aristotle's School (Lykeion)
- Audio guide for Plaka and Ancient Agora
- Audio guide for Acropolis and Parthenon (based on option selected)
- There's an elevator at the Acropolis that guests with disabilities can use. However, guests will have to contact the venue well in advance for details and terms.
- Note: The multi-site adult ticket allows one entrance to each site and is valid over 5 consecutive days from the day it's redeemed. However, access to Acropolis is valid only for day 1, i.e. the selected date and time, and not for all 5 days with the other sites.
- A step-by-step login process will be shared with you once you've booked your ticket.
- Visitors are required to follow the signs, walk along marked routes, and avoid entering restricted areas.
- Please note that the timeslot you are requested to choose refers only to your visit to the Acropolis of Athens. The rest of the archaeological sites can be visited without any time slot limitation, within opening hours, with the same ticket.
- Infants aged 0-5 and EU citizens under 25 receive free admission with valid ID directly from the ticket booth, while non-EU citizens under 25 receive reduced-price entry from April to October with valid ID.
- These tickets can't be cancelled or rescheduled.
Combos
Combo (Save 5%): Acropolis & 6 Archaeological Sites Multipass Tickets + Athens National Archaeological Museum Ticket
from €57
€54.15
5% off
- Save time and money with this combo pass that gives you access to the Acropolis, 6 other archaeological sites, and the Athens National Archaeological Museum.
- Delve into the heart of Greek history with this multipass, exploring iconic structures like the UNESCO-listed Acropolis and the grand Ancient Agora.
- Benefit from time-slotted entry to Acropolis Hill and enjoy an optional multilingual audio guide for Plaka and Ancient Agora in 5 languages.
- Explore Athens National Archaeological Museum, and find the largest collection of Greek antiquities spread across 5,000 years.
- Opt for the audio guide at the museum to gain valuable insights into Greek history, with captivating stories of its artifacts like the golden Mask of Agamemnon.
- Save time and money with this combo pass that gives you access to the Acropolis, 6 other archaeological sites, and the Athens National Archaeological Museum.
- Delve into the heart of Greek history with this multipass, exploring iconic structures like the UNESCO-listed Acropolis and the grand Ancient Agora.
- Benefit from time-slotted entry to Acropolis Hill and enjoy an optional multilingual audio guide for Plaka and Ancient Agora in 5 languages.
- Explore Athens National Archaeological Museum, and find the largest collection of Greek antiquities spread across 5,000 years.
- Opt for the audio guide at the museum to gain valuable insights into Greek history, with captivating stories of its artifacts like the golden Mask of Agamemnon.
Inclusions
Acropolis
- Timed entry to Acropolis Hill
- Entry to 7 archaeological sites: Acropolis and Slopes, Ancient Agora, Roman Agora, Temple of Zeus, Hadrian's Library, Olympieion Kerameikos, and Aristotle's School (Lykeion)
- Audio guide for Plaka and Ancient Agora
- Audio guide for all sites in English, French, German, Italian & Spanish (optional)
Athens National Archaeological Museum
- Entry to the Athens National Archaeological Museum
- Audio guide app
- Plaka audio guide (optional)
Acropolis
- Tip: Look for the sacred olive tree at the ancient Agora that, according to the legend, was a gift from the goddess Athena.
- The optional audio guide is available in English, French, German, Italian & Spanish.
- This experience is accessible by wheelchair and pram/strollers.
- Note: The multi-site adult ticket allows one entrance to each site and is valid over 5 consecutive days from the day it's redeemed.
- Please note that the timeslot you are requested to choose refers only to your visit to the Acropolis of Athens. The rest of the archaeological sites can be visited without any time slot limitation, within opening hours, with the same ticket.
Athens National Archaeological Museum
- Tip: Keep an eye out for the museum's hidden treasures, like the smallest item - a tiny faience hippopotamus from ancient Egypt.
- This experience is wheelchair and pram/stroller accessible.
- Due to venue restrictions, pets cannot tag along for this experience.
- Your guide dogs are welcome at the venue.
- Don’t forget your trusty earphones for an immersive audio guide experience.
- These tickets can't be cancelled or rescheduled.
Top things to do in Athens
Why visit the Temple of Zeus?
- A glimpse into the past: The Temple of Olympian Zeus is over 2700 years old. Its construction began in the 6th century BC and was completed by the Roman Emperor Hadrian. Walking through the temple's remains is like stepping back in time, into a world where mythology, religion, and politics were intertwined. Listen to the audio guides and learn more about the myths and legends associated with the site.
- Largest temple in ancient Greece: As the largest in ancient Greece, Zeus’ Temple once boasted a total of 104 columns. The remaining columns, each standing over 17 meters tall, hint at its former glory and showcase the skill and ingenuity of ancient Greek architects.
- More than just a ruin: The temple was not just meant to be a worshipping site but a symbol of Athenian power and prestige. Nearby, you’ll find Hadrian’s Arch, built to honor Emperor Hadrian. The arch points to the boundary between Old Athens and the new district, symbolizing the blending of Greek and Roman cultures.
- A photographer’s paradise: The towering Doric columns against the backdrop of clear blue skies make for stunning clicks. With the Acropolis just a stone’s throw away from the temple ruins, you can frame both monuments in a single shot.
Which Temple of Zeus ticket is best for you?
If you are short on time
Go for: Entry tickets
Duration: Flexible
Guide: Audio guide in English, French, German, Italian, Spanish, and Chinese
- These entry tickets mean you can zip in and out of the premises in 20 to 30 minutes.
- Soak in the grandeur of the Corinthian columns and appreciate the fluted, Doric-style architecture. Hear interesting facts and lesser-known legends from the audio guide.
Recommended tours:
- Temple of Olympian Zeus tickets with audio guide
If you are a history buff
Go for: Multipass tickets
Duration: Flexible
Guide: Audio guide for the Acropolis, Parthenon, Plaka, and Agora
- With a one-time purchase, you can visit seven iconic archaeological sites in Athens. Save almost 50% on these multipass tickets as compared to individual ticket prices.
- Take advantage of the audio guides and learn about their history and construction as you make your way into the Acropolis Hill and the Plaka neighborhood.
Recommended tours:
- Multipass tickets: Athens + 6 archaeological sites of Athens
If you want to explore nearby attractions
Go for: Combo tickets
Duration: Flexible
Guide: Audio guide for all sites in English, French, German, Italian, and Spanish
- If you have a full day on hand, opt for Temple of Olympian Zeus combo tickets. These tickets allow you to explore all the archaeological sites near the Acropolis, along with the National Archaeological Museum Athens, Ancient Agora, and Hadrian’s Library.
- Get deeper insights into their history with audio-guided tours of the Plaka, Ancient Agora, and Athens National Archaeological Museum.
Recommended tours:
What to expect on a multi-pass Temple of Zeus tour?
Itinerary
Tips
- 9am: Start your day with a visit to the Acropolis archaeological site. Climb up the hill and marvel at the Parthenon, a UNESCO World Heritage Site that has stood for over 2,500 years.
- 11:30am: Head to the Ancient Agora, which once functioned as the political and commercial center of Athens.
- 1pm: Enjoy a traditional Greek lunch with moussaka, souvlaki, and gyros in the Plaka neighborhood and soak up the vibrant atmosphere.
- 2:30pm: Continue your tour with a visit to the Temple of Olympian Zeus. The massive Doric columns, once adorned with statues and carvings, remind you of the temple’s past glory.
- 3:30pm: Explore Hadrian's Library, a Roman-era complex that once housed a vast collection of books and manuscripts.
- 4:30pm: Head to the Kerameikos, an ancient Athenian cemetery, where you can see tombs, monuments, and the ancient city walls.
- 5:30pm: End your day at the Lykeion, the school where Aristotle taught. While the original buildings have been destroyed, the site offers a glimpse into the intellectual pursuits of ancient Athenians.
- Plan in advance: Look through the multipass route and decide which attractions you want to visit. Plan your route a few days in advance to avoid backtracking and make the most of your visit.
- Wear comfortable shoes: We recommend you wear your most comfortable, closed shoes when setting out on this multipass tour. You need to walk a lot, especially across rough and rugged terrain, when exploring these ancient historic sites.
- Bring sun protection: The city’s ancient sites offer minimal shade and very few places to rest. It is best to carry a hat and sunscreen to protect your skin during the tour. Also, bring a water bottle to stay hydrated.
Inside the Temple of Olympian Zeus
See all photos
Plan your visit to the Temple of Zeus
Timings
Getting there
Entrances
Tips
Eat
Stay
Nearby
- November to March: 8am to 3pm
- April to October: 8am to 7pm
- Last entry: 30 minutes before closing time
- Closed on: 1 January, 25 March, Easter Sunday, 1 May, 25, and 26 December
Duration of visit: 20 to 30 minutes
Best time to visit: March to May and September to October, when the temperatures are slightly cooler, and there are fewer visitors
Address: Archaia Olympia 270 65, Greece
Find on maps
- By bus: Lines 24, 40, 57, and Line 790 (night bus)
- Nearest stop: Zappeion
- By metro: Red Line
- Nearest station: Acropoli
- By taxi: The drive from Syntagma Square to the Temple of Olympian Zeus is around 5 to 10 minutes, depending on traffic.
- Nearest stop: Vasilissis Olgas Avenue or Zappeion
The main entrance to the Temple of Olympian Zeus is located on Vasilissis Olgas Avenue, near the intersection with Amalias Avenue, beside the National Garden. You can spot the temple’s towering columns from a distance, which will guide you towards the gate.
Visitors in wheelchairs can comfortably enter and navigate around the site. The main gate is equipped with a ramp and accessible pathways. We recommend you bring along a friend or a caregiver, for some areas within the archaeological site may be uneven and rough.
About the Temple of Olympian Zeus
- Arrive early in the morning: To avoid the crowds and the heat, consider visiting early in the day. The temple is less busy during these times, and the lighting is perfect for photography.
- Plan a day trip: The Temple of Olympian Zeus is situated just a stone’s throw away from other popular archaeological sites like the Acropolis and the Ancient Agora. If you have a full day on hand, consider planning a day trip and visiting all the nearby landmarks.
- Consider a guided tour: Choose audio-guided tours to explore at your own pace and know more about the temple, its history, and former glory.
- Bring a camera: The towering columns of the temple provide a stunning backdrop against the clear skies of the city, especially on a sunny summer day. The early morning sun and the golden hours right before the sun sets offer the best natural light for photography.
- Respect the site: The Temple of Zeus is a protected archaeological site, once known for being the largest temple in ancient Greece. Be mindful of any restrictions or areas where photography may be prohibited.
- Acropol Restaurant (1.6km away): The Acropol Restaurant offers a cozy, traditional Greek dining experience with a menu that celebrates classic Greek cuisine. Make sure to try their moussaka, a baked dish made with layers of eggplant, minced meat, and bechamel sauce.
- Daphne’s Restaurant (1.2km away): Located in the Plaka neighborhood, this restaurant is known for its modern take on traditional Greek cuisine. Try their Kleftiko, slow-cooked lamb, and octopus carpaccio, thinly sliced octopus served with a drizzle of olive oil and fresh herbs.
- Athens Gate Rooftop Bar & Restaurant (1.2km away): This rooftop restaurant is perfect for a romantic date, offering stunning views of the Acropolis site and the Temple of Zeus. Their seafood risotto and grilled sea bass are must-try dishes.
- SENSE Rooftop Restaurant (1.6km away): The SENSE restaurant offers a fine dining experience with a focus on high-quality dishes. Their signature dishes include a slow-cooked lamb shank, feta-crusted beef fillet, and a pistachio dessert.
- Belpaese Restaurant (1.5km away): Belpaese offers a taste of Italy in the heart of Athens. Make sure to try their homemade pasta and fresh seafood. Their tiramisu is also popular among locals and tourists alike for its perfect balance of flavors.
- Budget stays:
- Safestay Athens Monastiraki (3.6km away)
- Thanasis Place (4.1km away)
- Sffigos 54 Guest House (3.3km away)
- Mid-range hotels:
- Aris Athens Suites (1.1km away)
- Athens Backpackers (1.8km away)
- Athens Raise Acropolis Project (2.4km away)
- Luxury stays:
- Royal Olympic Hotel (1.1km away)
- Hotel Grande Bretagne (950m away)
- Electra Palace Athens (700m away)
- Temple of Poseidon: The Temple of Poseidon is a famous temple in Greece devoted to the Olympian God of the Sea, Poseidon. It forms the Sacred Triangle with the Parthenon and the temple of Aphaia on Aegina Island.
- Ancient Archaeological Museum of Olympia: Olympia is known as the birthplace of the most important sporting event in the ancient world. It is known for the Olympic Games that used to take place here every four years from 776 BC to 393 AD.
- Acropolis archaeological site: The Acropolis is a UNESCO World Heritage site, which attracts millions of visitors throughout the year. It houses the Parthenon, dedicated to Goddess Athena, the Erechtheion, known for its distinctive Caryatids, the grand Propylaea entrance, and more. Book Acropolis skip the line tickets to get direct access to the site and save time.
- National Archaeological Museum: The National Archaeological Museum features a significant collection of artifacts from Greek history, including ancient sculptures, statues of Zeus, and beautiful Egyptian art.
Frequently asked questions about Temple of Olympian Zeus tickets
Can I get a discount on Temple of Zeus tickets?
If you book your Temple of Zeus tickets, you can enjoy complimentary add-ons like multilingual audio guides and exclusive discounts and combo deals. The multipass tickets include access to 7 historic sites in and around the temple and help you save almost 10% and more on individual ticket prices.
What is included in a Temple of Olympian Zeus ticket?
The Temple of Olympian Zeus tickets include entry access to the site, a multilingual audio guide available in English, Spanish, German, Italian, Spanish, and Chinese, along with a service fee.
Is the Temple of Olympian Zeus included in any Athens combo tickets?
Yes, the Temple of Olympian Zeus is often a part of combo tickets, that include other popular sites like the Acropolis, the Ancient Agora, and the Roman Agora. These combo tickets offer great value if you plan to explore multiple attractions.
What types of tickets are available for the Temple of Zeus?
Choose between Temple of Olympian Zeus entry tickets with an audio guide, multipass tickets, or combo tours. If you have a day or more on hand and would like to explore the city in-depth, go for the Temple of Zeus multipass tickets. They include access to 7 archaeological sites in and around the temple, helping you save almost 10% and more on individual tickets.
How long should I spend at the Zeus Temple in Athens?
The Temple of Zeus once used to be the largest in ancient Greece. Among its original 104 columns, only 15 are standing today. You need only 20 to 30 minutes to stroll through these columns and click pictures against its stunning backdrop.
How to get to the temple?
The Temple of Olympian Zeus is a short walk away from the Acropolis archaeological site. To get to the temple, get on any metro on the Red Line and step down at Acropoli. You can also choose any bus between 24, 40, and 57, and get off at Zappeion.