7Olympia

The birthplace of the Olympic Games is one of Greece’s most fascinating sites. During quieter months, you can imagine athletes training in the palaestra, or stand at the starting line of the ancient stadium where competitions were held nearly 3,000 years ago. The ruins of the Temple of Zeus, once housing one of the Seven Wonders of the Ancient World, are easier to explore without peak-season heat or congestion. The on-site museum adds depth, showcasing statues and artifacts discovered at the site.