Mount Olympus National Park, Mount Olympus Travel Guide

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Discover the mythical home of the Greek gods, a UNESCO Biosphere Reserve with stunning hiking trails and rich biodiversity.

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Mount Olympus National Park

Explore the legendary Mount Olympus National Park, Greece's first national park and a UNESCO Biosphere Reserve. Hike through diverse landscapes, from lush forests to rocky peaks, and discover the rich mythology and biodiversity of this iconic mountain, the highest in Greece.

A brief summary to Mount Olympus National Park

From Eve

Know before you go

Hi, I'm Eve. Here are a few practical things to know before exploring Mount Olympus National Park.

Wear sturdy hiking boots and appropriate clothing, as the weather on Mount Olympus can change rapidly.
Bring plenty of water and snacks, especially if you plan on hiking for an extended period.
Check the weather forecast before you go and be prepared for potential hazards, such as thunderstorms or snow.
Consider hiring a local guide for a more informative and safe hiking experience.
Respect the natural environment and pack out everything you pack in.

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Explore Mount Olympus National Park on the Map

A handpicked selection of must-see spots near Mount Olympus National Park, mapped for you.

Getting There

Public Transport

From Thessaloniki, take a direct train to Litochoro, the town at the base of Mount Olympus. The train journey takes approximately 1 hour and 10 minutes. From Litochoro, taxis are readily available to take you to Prionia, a common starting point for hikes into the National Park. Alternatively, take a KTEL bus from Thessaloniki to Litochoro. Bus schedules can be difficult to find online, so it's best to inquire at the Thessaloniki KTEL bus station. From Litochoro, take a taxi to Prionia. Taxi from Litochoro to Prionia: Approximately €28. Train from Thessaloniki to Litochoro: Ticket prices vary.
Driving

From Thessaloniki, drive southwest towards Litochoro. The drive is approximately 100 km and takes about 1 hour and 15 minutes via the A1 highway. Once in Litochoro, follow the signs towards Mount Olympus National Park. The road will eventually lead to Prionia, where you can park your car and begin your hike. Parking at Prionia is limited, especially during peak season. Consider arriving early to secure a spot. Tolls on A1 highway: Approximately €2 - €4. Parking at Prionia: Free

Discover more about Mount Olympus National Park

Mount Olympus National Park, established in 1938, is a realm of myth and natural beauty. As Greece's first national park and a UNESCO Biosphere Reserve, it protects the majestic Mount Olympus, the highest peak in Greece, revered in Greek mythology as the home of the gods. The park encompasses a diverse landscape of 52 peaks and deep gorges, offering a haven for over 1,700 plant species, representing about 25% of the Greek flora, including many endemic species.Visitors can explore various hiking trails, ranging from easy walks to challenging climbs, with the most popular route leading through the Enipeas River Valley. The E4 hiking trail, commencing from Litochoro, guides hikers through the picturesque Enipea Canyon, ultimately reaching Prionia. For experienced mountaineers, the ascent to Mytikas, the highest peak, is a rewarding but challenging scramble. Along the trails, you'll discover historical sites, including the Old Monastery of Dionysios, and encounter diverse flora and fauna.The park's rich history extends beyond mythology, with the Olympus massif serving as a border between Thessaly and Macedon in antiquity and later becoming a hiding place for Greek insurgents during the Ottoman Empire. Today, Mount Olympus National Park remains a popular destination for hikers, mountaineers, and nature lovers, offering a unique blend of natural beauty, historical significance, and mythological allure.