Athens: Olympic Games Workout Session

Planning a trip to Athens and interested in combining history with some physical activity? The Olympic Games Workout Session offers a unique way to connect with Greece’s sporting heritage while staying active outdoors. This tour, rated 4.7 out of 5 from over a hundred reviews, has been praised for its knowledgeable guides, engaging activities, and iconic venues—but it’s not without some considerations.

What we really love about this experience is how seamlessly it blends education with hands-on fun. You get to walk through some of the most historically significant Olympic spots and then put your muscles to the test with sports inspired by ancient and modern Greece. One of the key perks is the friendly, expert guidance that makes even beginners feel comfortable trying out activities like discus, javelin, shot put, and running. Plus, the chance to run on the same track where the first modern Olympians competed is genuinely special.

However, a possible downside is the price and what’s included. At $65, it’s fairly priced considering the venues and personalized experience, but some reviewers felt that extra entry fees—such as the €10 to access the stadium—add up, making it a bit expensive for what you get. Also, for those looking for a deep dive into Olympic history or museum visits, this tour focuses more on the active side and less on extensive sightseeing.

This experience suits travelers who want to combine history, culture, and physical activity — especially active families, sports enthusiasts, or anyone curious about the Olympic story in Greece. It’s not a typical sightseeing tour but a lively, memorable way to experience Athens’ Olympic roots.

Key Points

• Interactive and active: You’ll participate in sports like javelin and long jump, making history come alive.
• Historic venues: The Panathenaic Stadium and Zappeion are highlights, offering a real sense of Olympic history.
• Knowledgeable guides: Expect friendly experts who share engaging trivia and context.
• Good value for many: The $65 ticket covers instruction, the workout, and access to key sites, though some extra fees are possible.
• Family friendly: The tour is suitable for all ages, with activities that kids and adults alike can enjoy.
• Limited museum focus: It’s more about participating than extensive sightseeing, so don’t expect hours of museum visits.

You can check availability for your dates here:

A Closer Look at What You Can Expect

This 2-hour outdoor experience starts with a warm-up outside the Zappeion, a neoclassical building in the National Gardens that has a special place in Olympic history as the first structure built specifically for the 1896 revival. The guide will share stories about the Olympic Games’ importance in Greek society and how athletes trained back then, mixing history with engaging facts that make the story accessible for all ages.

From there, you’ll move to Athens’ oldest gym, where classic techniques like discus and javelin throwing are demonstrated. The trainer will teach you proper form and give you a chance to try out the sports yourself. It’s a fun way to learn about athletic techniques used in ancient events while getting some exercise.

The highlight for many is the Panathenaic Stadium, the only stadium in the world built entirely of marble, famously hosting the first modern Olympic Games in 1896. Running a race here, on the same track as the Olympians who competed over a century ago, is a moment that sticks with visitors. Several reviews highlight this as a memorable part of the tour—one reviewer from the U.S. shared, “we ran the track and entered from the tunnel… laughed non-stop,” emphasizing the playful and inspiring atmosphere.

Throughout the tour, your guide will sprinkle in quirky insights—like old sports trivia that can even stump your friends—and take lots of photos of you in action, making it both educational and fun. Many reviews applaud the guides’ enthusiasm and knowledge, making the experience personalized and lively.

The Venues and Their Significance

Panathenaic Stadium: This stunning marble venue is not just a pretty sight but a living piece of Olympic history. It hosted the 1896 Games and has been restored to maintain its grandeur. For visitors, walking or running here offers a tangible connection to the past, and several reviews mention how this is the highlight of the experience.

Zappeion: Often overlooked by travelers, this neoclassical building is where the modern Olympic movement was officially launched. It’s a peaceful spot that adds historical depth to the tour, especially as an introduction to Greece’s Olympic heritage.

Ancient Olympic Training Sites: The old gym where you get to try classic athletic techniques adds an element of authenticity. Practicing these old sports gives you a sense of what ancient athletes might have experienced—minus the crowds and stress.

Olympic Stadium: The final stop, where you get to run on the track, is a thrill. Entry to the stadium costs an extra €10, which some reviews mention as a surprise, so budget accordingly if you want the full experience.

The Price and the Experience Value

At $65 per person, this tour provides a lot of value—especially considering the personalized guidance, the physical activities, and access to major venues. Despite some reviews mentioning additional costs (like entry fees), many participants feel it’s worth it, given the memorable nature of running in the stadium and the engaging sports activities.

It’s also worth noting the tour’s flexibility. The private group option means your experience can be tailored slightly to your pace and interests, making it more comfortable for families or small groups.

Who Will Love This Tour?

If you’re someone who enjoys being active while learning about history, this is a perfect fit. It suits families with kids who want a fun, educational outing, and sports fans eager to try classic Olympic events. It’s also great if you’re traveling with friends or partners who appreciate a mix of outdoors, culture, and fitness.

But if your main goal is museum-hopping or in-depth historical tours, this might feel a bit light on content. It’s more about participation and enjoyment than deep historical immersion.

More Great Tours Nearby

Practical Tips for Your Visit

• Wear comfortable shoes and sportswear—this is an active experience.
• Bring water, especially on hot days, so you stay hydrated during the workout.
• Avoid heavy meals before the tour; light snacks are perfect.
• Be prepared for a bit of extra expense if you want to access the stadium (€10).
• The tour lasts about 2 hours, so plan accordingly.
• Meet at the designated point or opt for pickup if available; check availability in advance.
• Open-toed shoes aren’t allowed, so choose closed ones for safety.
• The activity is suitable for all ages and fitness levels, but those with mobility or health issues should consider their comfort.

FAQ

Is this tour suitable for children?
Yes, many reviews mention that kids enjoyed participating in activities, and the tour is designed to be engaging for all ages.

Do I need to pay extra to enter the stadium?
Yes, entering the Panathenaic Stadium costs about €10, which isn’t included in the base price.

What should I wear?
Comfortable shoes and sportswear are recommended. Open-toed shoes are not allowed, so avoid flip-flops or sandals.

Is this activity physically demanding?
It’s designed to be accessible for all fitness levels. The activities are light and fun, but you should be prepared to move around and do some light exercises.

How long is the tour?
It’s approximately 2 hours, making it a manageable activity for most schedules.

Can I join if I have health problems?
It’s suitable for most people, but individuals with back problems, mobility issues, or heart conditions should consider their comfort level.

Is there a private group option?
Yes, private groups are available, which can make the experience more personalized.

What’s included in the price?
The fee covers a certified sports trainer, the workout, and the tour of the venues.

Are food and drinks included?
No, food and drinks are not included, so plan to bring some water and perhaps snacks.

Final Thoughts

This Olympic Games Workout Session in Athens offers a lively, engaging way to connect with Greece’s Olympic history. It’s perfect for travelers who want more than just sightseeing—those who enjoy activity, stories, and making memories in iconic venues. The guides’ enthusiasm and the chance to run where Olympians once competed bring a fresh perspective to your Athens adventure.

While it may not satisfy those looking for an in-depth museum visit or a luxurious experience, it excels at blending education with fun. If you’re active, curious, and enjoy history with a side of physical challenge, this tour will likely leave you with stories to tell and a smile on your face.

This experience is best suited for active travelers eager to learn about the Olympics in a fun, hands-on way. It’s a memorable slice of Greek culture wrapped in a lively workout—an experience that stands out from typical sightseeing.

You can check availability for your dates here: