Panathenaic Stadium

Stadium · Mets

Panathenaic Stadium

Stadium · Mets

Leof. Vasileos Konstantinou, Athina 116 35, Greece

Highlights

The Panathenaic Stadium in Athens, a stunning all-marble arena, lets you stroll ancient Olympic grounds and soak in epic city views.

Leof. Vasileos Konstantinou, Athina 116 35, Greece Get directions

panathenaicstadium.gr

@matadornetwork

Art and Culture in Athens

"The Panathenaic Stadium or Kallimarmaro was inaugurated in 329 BC for the Panathenaea, an Athenian festival dedicated to the goddess of Athena (the goddess of wisdom and the patron of the city of Athens) with music and poetry contests. Between 140 and 144 AD, the stadium was renovated by Herodes Atticus, a Greek aristocrat and Roman senator. In 1870, an excavation revealed the horseshoe-shaped, 50,000-seat stadium. The stadium was used again in 1896 for the first modern Olympics, and it is the finishing line for the annual autumn Athens Marathon race." - MATADOR_NETWORK

https://matadornetwork.com/destinations/europe/greece/athens/art-culture/

View Postcard for Panathenaic Stadium

@afar

"Built in the 4th century B.C.E., rebuilt for the first modern Olympic Games in 1896, and refurbished for the 2004 Athens Olympics, this horseshoe stadium now serves as the finish line for the Athens Marathon. For centuries, nude male athletes competed here in the Panathenaic championships. Follow in their footsteps by running around the track (fully clothed, of course), or admire the views from the Pentelic marble pews, which can accommodate 70,000 spectators.Just outside the top tier of the stadium is a dirt track through the pine forest that’s popular with local joggers—a very scenic and inspiring spot to stay fit while you sightsee."

The Best Things to Do in Athens

View Postcard for Panathenaic Stadium

Graham Warnock

Google

The Panathenaic Stadium in Athens is a must-visit for anyone interested in history, sport, or architecture. Entirely built from white marble, it’s the only stadium of its kind in the world and famously hosted the first modern Olympic Games in 1896. Entry is €10, and it’s well worth it for the chance to walk in the footsteps of ancient and modern athletes alike. The atmosphere is both grand and peaceful. Walking around the track is a surreal experience, especially imagining the roar of the crowd over a century ago. Climbing to the top of the stands offers fantastic views over the city—but be warned, it’s very steep, so wear good shoes and take your time. One of the most interesting features is the cool stone tunnel underneath the seating, which was used by athletes to enter the stadium. It feels like natural air conditioning and is a great spot to cool off on a hot day. It’s also a great place to snap a few photos and soak in the historic vibe. The small museum area inside displays Olympic torches and memorabilia, adding another layer to the visit. All in all, it’s a unique site that combines beauty, history, and a real sense of awe. A true gem of Athens and well worth the time and entry fee.

Austen Urry

Google

Awesome to see, such a historic place. It’s also managed in a very hands-off way which makes the experience more enjoyable. Being able to just wander around and take it in. It’s cheap (€10), really accessible, and no lines insight which is amazing as a tourist. Would say it’s a must, when in Athens!

Carlos Oraison

Google

Great historical site. Still relevant to today with the Olympic spirit. Small museum and included in €10 entrance fee is a self guided audio presentation which highlights interesting facts. Easy access with buses. If you visit on a hot day bring sunglasses and a hat. Two kiosks near entrance with drinks and snacks.Definitely highly recommended

Paul Stevenson

Google

Just excellent. Easily the best €10 we've spent in Greece. Get up early, be there for opening at 8am - no, seriously - and run round THE Olympic Stadium track. Then take the brilliant audio tour that guides you round this incredible place. The museum with every Olympic torch was a real surprise and the views across to the Acropolis are great. Sitting at the top of the stadium and looking down on where so much Olympic history started is really cool.

Karina Santoyo

Google

Amazing place full of history; every detail has been carefully preserved to make this site truly remarkable. It was also fascinating to see the torches, especially the one from Barcelona ‘92, which was one of the most spectacular Olympic lightings. It’s a shame that the souvenir shop has so few products available

VoudouLounge

Google

Another ancient historical landmark to visit in Athens. This marble clad stadium will give you goosebumps imagining how the first modern Olympic Games must have been back then. Well worth the $15 to spend an hour or so to walk around and soak in the sites and scenery.

Jacob C Von Seth

Google

At first, I thought I was just going there to run a lap around the track. That was a cool experience, but I really enjoyed going into the little museum and seeing all of the Olympic torches used over the years. Also, it was a great way to get out of the sun. The concession stand right next to the gate is a bit of a tourist trap, but the slushy did cool us down.

Rory Morse

Google

There is no reservation or tickets needed to view this site. If you want to take a tour I would recommend booking ahead. There is also a person that is outside dressed in traditional guard attire that you can pay to take a picture with. This is a further testament to the enduring nature of the historic structures within Athens. It does not take long to stop and take a picture here. I would highly recommend it.