Practical advice for visiting the Panathenaic Stadium in Athens: how to get there, opening times, ticket prices, accessibility and nearby sights
History and overview
The Panathenaic Stadium, sometimes called Kallimarmaro, occupies a central spot in Athens and is the marble stadium that hosted the first modern Olympic Games in 1896. The site traces back to a classical racecourse and was rebuilt in marble in the Roman period before being restored for 19th century athletic revivals.
Today visitors can walk the marble tiers, run onto the track and see the small exhibition of Olympic torches and posters in the stadium museum. The Panathenaic Stadium is close enough to central Athens to add to a day’s sightseeing itinerary of the city’s highlights.
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How to get to the Panathenaic Stadium
Nearest metro and public transport: the stadium is about 1,000 metres from Syntagma, Akropoli and Evangelismos metro stations (and check out the mini-museums inside while you’re there). Multiple bus routes stop nearby and the tram line stops at Zappeio, which is a short walk from the entrance.
By foot or bike: the stadium sits opposite the National Garden on Vasileos Konstantinou Avenue, so it is an easy walk from central Syntagma. Bicycle parking is available at the entrance.
Opening times and ticket prices
Opening times: the stadium is usually open daily from 08:00 to 19:00 in March to October, and from 08:00 to 17:00 in November to February, with last entry at closing time. The site recommends visiting in the morning or late afternoon to avoid the heat.
Ticket prices and purchase: general admission is €10. Reduced tickets for students are available for €5. Tickets are purchased at the ticket desk on site; payments by cash or card are accepted. Children under six and certain escorted school groups are admitted free.
Accessibility, parking and facilities
Disabled access: the track and stoa areas are accessible to visitors with mobility difficulties. The stadium museum is reached by stairs and has no lift, so museum access is limited for some visitors. Disabled visitors and their companion are admitted free when documentation is presented. Restrooms on the square may carry a €1 use fee.
Canteen and shops: a canteen next to the entrance offers coffee and snacks during opening hours. There are two gift shops, one in the courtyard and one near the museum. Note that food and drinks other than water are not permitted inside the marble seating area.
Best times to visit and what to expect
For cooler temperatures and fewer people aim for early morning or late afternoon, particularly in summer. The marble steps can become hot in direct sun and slippery in wet weather, so wear sensible footwear and allow time to pause for photos and views towards the Acropolis and Lycabettus Hill.
Allow about 45 minutes to 90 minutes for a typical visit if you intend to walk the stands, visit the museum and use the audio guide that is provided with admission. The site provides an automatic audio guide in multiple languages.
Nearby attractions to combine in one day
- National Garden — immediate neighbour for a shady stroll.
- Temple of Olympian Zeus — a few minutes on foot and well suited to the same morning or afternoon.
- Acropolis and Acropolis Museum — combine these for a longer day of classical sites and museums.
- Syntagma square — parliamentary buildings and the changing of the guard are within walking distance.
FAQ: practical questions
| Question | Answer |
|---|---|
| Are the paths wheelchair friendly? | Partially. The track and main stoa are accessible for people with mobility difficulties, but the museum is reached by stairs and is not accessible by lift. Documentation may be required for free admission for disabled visitors. |
| Is there parking or drop-off nearby? | There is bicycle parking at the entrance and local streets for drop-off. For car parking you will generally use public car parks in central Athens and walk or take a short taxi. The area is primarily served by public transport. |
| Can I bring food or drink into the stadium? | No. To protect the site, food and beverages other than water are not allowed in the seating or track areas. A canteen and gift shops sell light refreshments. |
| When are the quietest hours to visit? | Early morning and late afternoon are quieter and cooler. Weekdays outside school holiday periods are generally less busy. |
| Are photos allowed? | Yes for personal use. Commercial photography requires prior permission. The site also restricts commercial use of Olympic symbols. |
Check the stadium’s official visitor page on the day you travel for any last minute changes to opening times or ticket rules. With a little planning you can combine the Panathenaic Stadium with several central Athens highlights for a history-packed visit to the Greek capital.
More Athens travel
Other Athens travel stories on Planet Whitley include:
- Athens hotel recommendations.
- How to spend 24 hours in Athens before your cruise.
- Review of the Acropolis Museum in Athens.
- How to get to the Theatre of Dionysus, Athens.
- Can you visit the Parthenon at night?
You can also choose from a wide range of Athens tours and experiences.