Best Things to Do in Mount Olympus (2027)

From headline sights to easy half-day trips, these are the best things to do in Mount Olympus, a Mountain and mythological peak in Pieria and Thessaly, Greece, with tips drawn from how people really visit.

Mount Olympus is the highest mountain in Greece and, in myth, the home of the Greek gods. It rises behind the small town of Litochoro and the sea, with forests, gorges and a rugged summit area that attract hikers and climbers from around the world.

1. Hike the Enipeas Gorge

A scenic trail from Litochoro along a river through forest and gorges, with the ruins of Agios Dionysios monastery on the route.

2. Climb toward Mytikas

The highest peak in Greece, at about 2,918 meters (9,573 feet), is reached by multi-day hikes from Prionia with an overnight at a mountain refuge.

3. Stay at a mountain refuge

Huts such as Refuge A, at about 2,100 meters, offer simple meals and beds and are a key part of the traditional ascent.

4. Explore Litochoro

The town at the foot of the mountain has cafes, a pleasant square and small museums, plus views of the peaks.

5. Visit the archaeological park of Dion

An ancient Macedonian site with sanctuaries, mosaics and a museum, about 15 minutes from Litochoro.

6. Visit Platamon Castle

A medieval fortress on a hill beside the sea, with views over the Thermaic Gulf and the coast.

7. Swim at the Pieria beaches

Long, sandy beaches near Litochoro, such as Paralia Katerini and Plaka Litochorou, are good for relaxing after a hike.

8. Eat local food

Taverns in Litochoro serve grilled meats, fresh salads and mountain cheeses, often in cool courtyards.

Mount Olympus Quick Facts

• Location: Pieria and Thessaly, Greece.
• Type of place: Mountain and mythological peak.
• Best time to visit: Visit from late June to September for hiking, when mountain huts are open and trails are mostly snow-free. Spring and autumn are good for lower walks and the Enipeas Gorge, while winter brings snow and is best for experienced mountaineers.
• Suggested time: 2 to 4 days, or 1 day if you are short on time.
• Busiest: July and August, and summer weekends. Quietest: November to April.

What to Eat in Mount Olympus

Local taverns serve grilled lamb and pork, feta cheese, Greek salads and fresh vegetables. Mountain honey, herbal teas and local wine are common, and seafood is available along the coast.

Getting Around

Litochoro is about 90 minutes’ drive from Thessaloniki, which has an international airport, and about 5 hours from Athens. Buses and trains serve Katerini and Litochoro, and a car makes it easier to reach trailheads such as Prionia. Taxis and guides can help with transfers.

Money-Saving Tips

Mount Olympus is moderately priced, with inexpensive taverns and basic lodging in Litochoro. Mountain refuges charge modest fees for beds and meals, and hiking is free, though a guide adds cost.

Mistakes to Avoid

• Starting a summit hike late and getting caught by afternoon storms.
• Underestimating the altitude and the scrambling on the upper sections.
• Not booking a refuge in advance in July and August.
• Going in winter or early spring without proper equipment.

Best Time to Do These Things

Visit from late June to September for hiking, when mountain huts are open and trails are mostly snow-free. Spring and autumn are good for lower walks and the Enipeas Gorge, while winter brings snow and is best for experienced mountaineers. The summit Mytikas involves some scrambling near the top, so check conditions and book a night at a mountain refuge in advance if you plan to climb, and start early to avoid afternoon storms.

Top-Rated Tours in Mount Olympus

These are the best-reviewed options currently listed for Mount Olympus, based on traveler ratings and review counts on Viator. Prices are starting prices and change with date and group size.

• Thessaloniki: Bus Trip to Dion & Mt Olympus National Park — rated 4.6 from 296 reviews, from $57.

How to Fit It All In

Most visitors need 2 to 4 days to cover the highlights without rushing, and 1 day is enough for the essentials. Our Mount Olympus trip-length guide shows how to split the days, and the best time to visit page helps you choose the season. The summit Mytikas involves some scrambling near the top, so check conditions and book a night at a mountain refuge in advance if you plan to climb, and start early to avoid afternoon storms.

Plan Your Trip

More Mount Olympus planning help: best tours and experiences in Mount Olympus, best time to visit, things to do, where to stay and how many days you need.

Frequently Asked Questions

What is the number one thing to do in Mount Olympus?

Hike the Enipeas Gorge tops most lists. A scenic trail from Litochoro along a river through forest and gorges, with the ruins of Agios Dionysios monastery on the route..

What can I do in Mount Olympus in one day?

Start early with a hike through the Enipeas Gorge from Litochoro, following the river upstream.

Is it worth booking a guided tour in Mount Olympus?

Tours save time on logistics and often include entry or transport. Listed tours start around $57 with a typical price near $139. The most-reviewed option we list is Thessaloniki: Bus Trip to Dion & Mt Olympus National Park, rated 4.6 from 296 reviews and starting around $57.

Are there good day trips from Mount Olympus?

Swim at the Pieria beaches and Eat local food are popular add-ons. See our trip-length guide for how to fit them in.