Guide to Panathinaiko Stadium: Things to Do, History, Tickets

The Panathinaiko Stadium or Kallimarmaro is the Olympic stadium of the first modern Olympic Games, reconstructed on the foundations of an ancient stadium.

As one of the most important structures in all of Greece, it is one of the top sights in Athens.

In this complete guide to the Panathinaiko Stadium in Athens, you'll learn all you need to know before your visit, including its history, and helpful information about how about get there, tickets, and tours.

What Can I Do at Panathinaiko Stadium?

The Panathinaiko Stadium is the Olympic Stadium that hosted the first modern Olympic Games in 1896. It was built on the ruins of an ancient stadium.

Today, you can walk in the footsteps of ancient and modern athletes. Surrounded by an impressive backdrop, the white marble stadium exudes a unique ambience.

1. Inside the Stadium

You can take in the impressive architecture of the Olympic Stadium as you stroll through the expansive interior. An audio guide leads through the stadium with background information about the history and importance of the place.

A winner's podium of the first modern Olympic Games is located in the middle of the stadium and offers unique photo opportunities. As is the view of Athens from climbing the steps of the stadium all the way to the top. From here you can enjoy a 360 degree view of the Acropolis, the Parthenon, the Olympieion, the Zappeion and the National Gardens.

Sporty visitors can take the opportunity to walk the track of the Olympic Stadium themselves, where not only Olympians but also naked athletes of ancient Athens competed.

A gate under the grandstand leads to a small museum that provides information about the history of the modern Olympic Games. Exhibits such as the posters and torches from the Summer and Winter Olympics can be seen here. Touch screens provide additional information about the historic site.

2. Café

There is a cafe in Panathinaiko Stadium where you can rest and have a bite to eat or drink.

3. Panathinaiko Shop

There is also a small shop on the premises of Panathinaiko Stadium where you can buy a small souvenir of your visit. The items are largely inspired by the Olympic Stadium.

4. Private Events

It is possible to book the conference room in the atrium of the Panathinaiko Stadium for your own events such as conferences, seminars and other business events. More information is available here.

Admission, Tickets and Guided Tours

How Do I Get to Panathinaiko Stadium?

Panathinaiko Stadium is located on the outskirts of Athens city center, close to many attractions.

The easiest way to get to the stadium is with the Hop on Hop off bus tour, which has its own stop at Panathinaiko Stadium (A8 “Panathenaic Stadium”).

As the stadium is about 950 meters from the "Syntagma", "Acropolis" and "Evangelismos" metro stations, it is easily accessible by public transport. The stations are served by metro lines 2 and 3 respectively approx. 12-minute walk to the stadium.

Alternatively, buses and trains also run to the immediate vicinity of Panathinaiko Stadium. The nearest stop is Mets.

Cruise passengers arriving from Piraeus Port can go to the nearby Piraeus Metro Station and board the M1 line. A single ticket is sufficient for the 16-minute journey to Monastiraki Station. There, change to the M2 metro line, go one more stop to the "Syntagma" station and then walk 12 minutes to Panathinaiko Stadium.

History of Panathinaiko Stadium

Panathinaiko Stadium was originally built in the 4th century BC. Back then, it served as the venue for numerous celebrations and competitions, many of which were held completely nude. Most famous are the Panathenaic Games, held in ancient Athens every four years in honor of the goddess Athena, and featured competitions such as chariot racing, wrestling and athletics.

Under Herodes Atticus the stadium was further expanded in 144 AD. The structure was shaped like a horseshoe and could seat an estimated 50,000 spectators. Over the centuries, the stadium fell into disrepair after such festivities were banned by the Roman Emperor Theodosius at the end of the 4th century AD.

During excavations by the renowned architect, First Ziller in 1869/70, the stadium was uncovered. After extensive renovation work, the stadium was reconstructed and lavishly decorated with white marble.

It was eventually revived as the site of the first modern Olympic Games in 1896. The Olympic Stadium has a capacity of 50,000 seats.

Panathinaiko Stadium is now operated by the Greek Olympic Committee. The stadium has become a popular tourist attraction, but is now only used for special events. For example, it serves as the finish line for the annual marathon in Athens.

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