Temple of Olympian Zeus travel guide

The Temple of Olympian Zeus, a monumental vision of grandeur, has a rich history dating back to the 6th century BC. Initiated by Peisistratos, an Athenian tyrant, the construction was halted due to political upheaval.

It was only in 174 BC, under the reign of Antiochus IV of Syria, that the project was revived, but lapsed again after his death. The temple, dedicated to Zeus, the king of the Olympian gods, finally reached completion in the 2nd century AD, under Roman Emperor Hadrian, nearly 638 years after the project was initially started.

Once a colossal structure boasting 104 Corinthian columns, the Temple was pillaged during a barbarian invasion, leaving only 15 columns standing today. Despite its dilapidated state, the Temple of Olympian Zeus remains a powerful symbol of the architectural brilliance of the ancient Greeks and Romans. Its captivating history and grand remnants continue to draw in history enthusiasts and tourists from around the globe.

One of the most striking features of the Temple of Olympian Zeus is its colossal size. Once home to 104 Corinthian columns, each standing at 17 meters high, it was one of the largest temples of the ancient world. However, only 15 of these colossal columns remain standing today, which still instill a sense of awe. Another unique attribute is the temple's dedication to Zeus, the king of the Olympian gods, symbolizing the power and prestige of the ancient city of Athens.

The temple is also noted for its impressive architectural style, especially the use of Corinthian order, which was relatively new at the time of its construction and later became a model for Roman architects. The ornate carving on the columns, especially the acanthus leaves at the top, is a remarkable feature. Lastly, the temple's location also adds to its uniqueness, sitting in the heart of modern Athens, juxtaposed against the city's contemporary architecture, it offers an intriguing contrast and a tangible connection to the city's illustrious past.

Located in the dynamic Athens Municipality, the popular Temple of Olympian Zeus is easy to find and can be explored during a short weekend escape in the beautiful city of Athina or as a stop on your countrywide road trip through Greece.

Athina is a perfect holiday destination for those who crave a mix of history, culture, and modern amenities. With its distinct architecture, famous museums, and delicious culinary scene, Athina offers something for everyone.

Take a stroll through the charming streets and alleys to discover hidden gems and enjoy the local atmosphere. Visit this popular landmark in Athina and immerse yourself in the city's rich history and culture at top attractions, including the remarkable Acropolis of Athens, Parthenon, Acropolis Museum, Athens National Garden, and Ancient Agora of Athens.

Whether you're looking to indulge in shopping or explore the nightlife, Athina has it all. Don't forget to sample the delicious cuisine, from traditional dishes to modern fusion.

Experience the best of both worlds in Athina, a place where the past meets the present, and you'll create unforgettable memories that will last a lifetime.

Click the travel guides below to learn more and get ready to make unforgettable memories in Greece!

Temple of Olympian Zeus is conveniently accessible by various transportation options in Athina, Greece. If you're flying in, Athens International Airport is approximately 11.7 miles (18.9 km) away from Athina. From there, you can easily reach Temple of Olympian Zeus by taxi or shuttle.

For those already in Athina, buses, taxis, and walking are viable options to reach Temple of Olympian Zeus, which is located 0.4 miles (0.7 km) from the city center. You can also rent a car and drive to Temple of Olympian Zeus, providing flexibility to explore at your leisure. Its exact address is Athens 105 57, Greece.

With your transportation plans sorted, get ready for an unforgettable experience at Temple of Olympian Zeus!

The best time to explore Temple of Olympian Zeus in Athens is during the spring (April to June) and autumn (September to November). These seasons offer pleasant weather with temperatures ranging from 15°C to 25°C, ideal for outdoor exploration. Springtime brings the added allure of blooming flowers, enhancing the beauty of the temple surroundings. Autumn, on the other hand, treats visitors to a captivating display of changing foliage colors. Visiting during these shoulder seasons also allows travelers to avoid the summer crowds, offering a more leisurely and intimate experience. Early morning or late afternoon visits are recommended to capture stunning photos against the backdrop of sunrise or sunset. Additionally, the annual Athens & Epidaurus Festival, typically held from June to October, offers a wide array of cultural events around the city, further enriching the experience of your visit. Regardless of the season, remember to carry water, wear comfortable shoes, and protect yourself from the sun to make the most of your visit to this ancient architectural marvel.

To truly enjoy your visit to Temple of Olympian Zeus, joining a tour that features this popular ancient Greek temple in Athina is highly recommended. As one of Greece's most iconic attractions, Temple of Olympian Zeus draws visitors from around the world. Booking a tour in advance allows you to skip the lines and ensures a smooth, enjoyable experience.

Find the best and most popular tours and tickets to Temple of Olympian Zeus starting at just 20 EUR below.

There's no better way to discover the wonders of Temple of Olympian Zeus and other top attractions in Athina than with a perfectly planned holiday package! Travel packages to Athina include everything you need to fully immerse yourself in Temple of Olympian Zeus's wonders and in the beauty and history of the region. These packages offer the perfect opportunity to delve into Temple of Olympian Zeus and experience a variety of activities and destinations tailored to suit all types of travelers.

Keep reading to discover the best travel plans and insider tips for uncovering the charm of this one-of-a-kind ancient Greek temple in Greece.

With a rental car, discovering the popular Temple of Olympian Zeus and Greece's captivating landscapes becomes a breeze, allowing you to explore at your own pace. Upon arrival, international travelers can choose from 3 reputable rental car companies near Athens International Airport and the city of Athina, making transportation seamless and efficient.

Rental car companies in Greece cater to a variety of preferences, offering vehicles ranging from compact and midsize to premium, estate, and even camper vans or convertibles. To select the perfect ride, consider your itinerary and specific travel plans in Athina and beyond.

Conveniently explore Temple of Olympian Zeus and plenty more captivating attractions in Athina by staying at a top-rated hotel in the center of the city. With comfortable accommodations and easy access to Temple of Olympian Zeus and other notable landmarks, wake up well-rested every day, ready to explore all that Athina has to offer.

Discover the best hotels for visiting Temple of Olympian Zeus below.

Aside from Temple of Olympian Zeus, Athina is home to numerous other top attractions waiting to be explored. From museums and architectural masterpieces to sculptures and natural wonders, the city offers a diverse range of sights to behold. For the ultimate sightseeing tour around Athina, there are a number of attractions every itinerary should include, namely Acropolis of Athens, Parthenon, and Acropolis Museum.

Acropolis of Athens is a bucket-list establishment and top attraction in Athina, drawing numerous travelers and locals every year. As evident by its average rating of 4.8 out of 5 stars in 120,000 reviews, this attraction is a popular place to visit for anyone with time to spend in the city. The exact address of Acropolis of Athens is Athens 105 58, Greece.

Another appreciated attraction in Athina is Parthenon. Like Acropolis of Athens, this is one of the most popular sites to visit in the city. With an impressive average rating of 4.8 out of 5 stars among 74,000 visitors, it’s also one of the highest-rated. The exact address of this landmark is Athens 105 58, Greece.

Acropolis Museum is also a clear favorite among travelers seeking to experience the uniqueness of Athina. This museum and top attraction in Athina has been rated an average of 4.7 out of 5 stars by 65,000 visitors. This attraction is located at the address of Dionysiou Areopagitou 15, Athina 117 42, Greece.

Check out our full list of top attractions in the city of Athina below.