Olympia's ancient sanctuary sprawls across a wooded valley where the Alpheios and Kladeos rivers meet. The archaeological site covers several hectares, with the ruins of temples, training grounds, a stadium, and civic buildings that once drew athletes and pilgrims from across the Greek world every four years. The village of Ancient Olympia, a short walk from the site, has two excellent museums and a handful of tavernas.
Allow at least a half day for the site and the Archaeological Museum together. The site opens at sunrise and the light on the columns is best in the morning before the tour groups arrive.