Olympia

Olympia is a small, leafy village that exists because of what lies beside it: the sanctuary where the ancient Olympic Games were held. Walk the same ground as the athletes, step into the old stadium and imagine the crowd. The village itself is simple, with cafes, small hotels and a museum nearby. It is a calm place to slow down on a Peloponnese road trip, and a good stop for anyone curious where the Games began.

Talking points

• The ancient Olympic Games were held here for many centuries.
• The village is small, green and relaxed, a contrast to the big cities.
• The museum next to the site holds some of the best-known finds.