Explore on your own rating
Olympia is doable on your own but timetables are sparse.
Where ships dock
- Katakolon pier (ships usually dock in the village)
Getting to town
Katakolon is a tiny village right at the pier. Ancient Olympia is about 35 km away.
A train (Hellenic Train) runs to Olympia, about 45 minutes each way, with limited departures (check the day's timetable). A public KTEL bus also runs (about 40 minutes; €4 one way reported).
Fares are as reported by the sources below and change often. Treat them as estimates.
Money & entry
Currency: Euro (€). Cards are widely accepted; carry some cash for small purchases.
Entry: U.S. passport required. ETIAS (the EU travel authorization) is NOT yet in operation: the official EU site says no applications are being collected and a start date will be announced several months ahead (checked Oct 2026). Don't pay any site claiming to sell ETIAS now. The EU Entry/Exit System (EES) does register non-EU travelers' passports and biometrics at Schengen external borders.
Top sights nearby
- Ancient Olympia (UNESCO) and museum
- Katakolon village waterfront
Beaches
- Agios Andreas beach (short walk or taxi)
Safety & tips
- Confirm train times at the port kiosk.
- Bring water; Olympia is hot and exposed.
- Allow 2–3 hours at the site.
Check U.S. State Department travel advisories before you sail.
⏰ Back to the ship on time
Take a train or bus that returns at least 60 minutes before all-aboard.
Ship time can differ from local time. Your ship won't wait for independent travelers.