Temple of Olympian Zeus & Hadrian's Arch - Athens Bus Tour

Located right in the center of the city, the Temple of Olympian Zeus (Olympieion) is a testament to ambition. It took over 600 years to build (started by Tyrants, finished by Emperor Hadrian) and was once the largest temple in Greece, surpassing even the Parthenon in footprint.

The Sight

From the top deck of the bus, you can see the 15 remaining Corinthian columns (out of the original 104) towering over the fence.

• The Fallen Giant: One column lies fallen on the ground, blown down by a storm in 1852. It has been left there, allowing you to see the cross-section "drums" of the marble and appreciate the sheer width of the pillars.

Hadrian's Arch

Just outside the temple site, on the main road, stands Hadrian's Arch. It was built to honor the Roman Emperor Hadrian who finished the temple. Look closely at the inscriptions on the frieze:

• Facing the Acropolis: "This is Athens, the ancient city of Theseus."
• Facing the Temple of Zeus: "This is the city of Hadrian, and not of Theseus." It was a bold statement dividing the old Greek city from the new Roman city.

Why Hop Off?

• Quick Visit: Unlike the Acropolis, this site is flat and rarely crowded. You can see it thoroughly in 30 minutes.
• Great Photos: You can get iconic shots of the columns framing the Acropolis in the distance.
• Picnic Spot: There are benches and grassy areas (rare in Athens!) making it a nice breathing space.

Location

This stop is strategically located between the Acropolis Museum and Syntagma Square.

• Walk to Plaka: Just cross the street and you are at the Lysicrates Monument and the entrance to Plaka.
• Walk to Zappeion: The National Gardens are right across the main avenue.

It’s a reminder of the Roman era of Athens and a convenient connector stop for walkers.