Multiple ruins of ancient Greek pillars in Olympia
GATEWAY TO OLYMPIA

Cruise to Olympia (Katakolon), Greece

Experience ancient history and modern charm in Katakolon, a vibrant cruise port on the Greek coast. From here, you can catch a glimpse of Olympia, the birthplace of the original Olympic games and a shrine to the ancient Greek gods. Cruise to Greece and walk through the Olympia complex to get a historical tour of architectural styles, from the classical ruins to the red-tiled roofs of the traditional homes. Then, stroll through the Katakolon's lively center to discover unique local galleries and shops, and grab a seat at an oceanfront taverna with a glass of white wine and a dish of locally caught calamari.
National Language Greek
Currency Accepted Euro (EUR)

Things To Do in Olympia (Katakolon)

An ancient street in Olympia with columns on both sides

Relive History

An ancient street in Olympia with columns on both sides

An ancient street in Olympia with columns on both sides

Relive History

The train to Olympia takes you through the splendid green hills of the Greek countryside, dotted with olive groves and vineyards. On the remains of the Olympic site, you'll find the Archaeological Museum at Olympia and the Museum of the Olympic Games.

Assorted colorful plates with painted designs hanging on a wall

Find Local Treasures

Assorted colorful plates with painted designs hanging on a wall

Assorted colorful plates with painted designs hanging on a wall

Find Local Treasures

As you walk through the village, stop and chat with the locals who create ornate traditional goods. Choose from an array of handmade crafts made from olive wood, ceramic and leather at one of the many shops that line Katakolon's main street.

Various different kinds of fish for sale at a fish market
Various different kinds of fish for sale at a fish market

Eat Like an Olympian

Local tavernas offer a wide array of Greek traditional cuisine, served alongside views of the pristine blue water. Jump onboard a Greece cruise to enjoy a glass of the region's crisp white wine with some fresh seafood. If you're feeling adventurous, be sure to try the grilled octopus.

A grilled octopus salad served on a blue plate
A grilled octopus salad served on a blue plate

Local Cuisine

Katakolon's local cuisine is fresh and simple enough to be healthy but so delicious that you won't even notice. Locally caught seafood is prepared grilled with herbs and a drizzle of olive oil. Flavorful vegetables are served plain or in dishes such as spanakopita, a spinach pie, or moussaka, a delicious combination of vegetables, meat and bechamel sauce.

An assortment of clay pots in Greece,
An assortment of clay pots in Greece,

Shopping

Pottery, olive wood, lace and leather are just a few of the materials used here to create traditional crafts. Local artisans pride themselves in making each piece a one-of-a-kind item. From hand-crocheted center pieces to ceramic bowls that tell a story, each item reflects Katakolon's local traditions and history.

Insider's Tips
Insider's Tips
1 While the main language is Greek, many locals speak some English. Nevertheless, it's a good idea to be prepared with some basic greetings.
2 Local law mandates that shorts not be any shorter than six inches above the knee, so keep those thighs out of sight.
3 Be sure to plan your day around mesimeri, the Greek midday nap. Many shops close in the afternoon after lunch and reopen around 5:30 p.m.
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