Olympic Stadium (OAKA) Tours and Tickets
Overview
The Olympic Stadium of Athens "Spyros Louis" is a sports stadium in Athens, Greece. It is a part of the Athens Olympic Sports Complex and is named after the first modern Olympic marathon gold medalist in 1896, Spyros Louis. The stadium hosts two of the biggest sport clubs in Greece, Panathinaikos and AEK Athens. The stadium served as the main stadium during the 2004 Summer Olympics. Located in the area of Marousi in Athens, the stadium was originally designed in 1980 and built in 1980–1982. It was completed in time to host the 1982 European Championships in Athletics. It was inaugurated by the President of Greece at the time, Konstantinos Karamanlis, on 8 September 1982. One year later, in 1983, OAKA Stadium hosted the 1983 European Cup Final between Hamburger SV and Juventus (1-0). In 1987, the stadium hosted the 1986–87 European Cup Winners' Cup final between Ajax and Lokomotiv Leipzig (1-0). Olympic stadium is an UEFA category four stadium and is the largest stadium in Grecce. In 1994, OAKA Stadium hosted their second 1994 UEFA Champions League Final, this time contested between AC Milan and Barcelona (4-0). It also hosted several events of the 1991 Mediterranean Games and the 1997 World Championships in Athletics, sought in order to prove that it was capable of hosting major sporting events after the failure of Athens to win the 1996 Summer Olympics but successfully hosting the 2004 Summer Olympics. It was extensively renovated in time for the 2004 Summer Olympics and the 2004 Summer Paralympics, including a roof designed by Santiago Calatrava, and innovatively positioned with Enerpac hydraulics. The roof was added atop the sidelines and completed just in time for the opening of the Games. The stadium was then officially re-opened on 30 July 2004. It hosted the athletics events and the football finals at the Olympics and the athletics at the Paralympics. It also hosted the opening ceremony on 13 August 2004, and the closing ceremony on 29 August 2004 along the paralympics ceremonies on 17 and 28 September. In 2007, OAKA Stadium hosted the 2007 UEFA Champions League Final between AC Milan and Liverpool (2-1). The stadium's attendance was reduced to 72,000 for the Olympics, the initial capacity was some 75,000, though only 69,618 seats were made publicly available for the track and field events and slightly more for the football final. The turf system consists of natural grass in modular containers which incorporate irrigation and drainage systems.
More Info
- OAKA is a must-visit for sports fans.
- The center is open for group tours (of over 15 people) with advance reservation; smaller groups or individuals must join a tour to visit.
- The Olympic Stadium is not to be confused with the Panathenaic Stadium, constructed in the fourth century BC and used for early Olympic Games, 15 minutes away.
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For Individuals with Hearing Loss
- Video Guide
- Hearing kits
- Speech To Text
Accessibility for wheels
- Special Parking
- Accessible elevator
- Easy without assistance
- Wide doors >= 75 cm and < 90 cm
- Accessible Toilet
Access for Visually Impaired
- Braille description
- Audio Guide
- Place has Special Guide Service
- Service animals permitted
- Touch Gallery
Access for Seniors
- Physical difficulty level - 3
As you step into the Olympic Stadium (OAKA) in Athens, a wave of emotions washes over you. The sheer magnitude of the stadium, with its towering stands and iconic arches, leaves you feeling small yet inspired. The history of this place, where the world’s greatest athletes have competed and made their mark, is palpable in the air. The crunch of gravel beneath your feet echoes through the empty stadium, adding to the sense of solitude and reflection. As you make your way to the center of the field, the vast expanse of green grass stretches out before you, inviting you to imagine the roar of the crowd and the energy of competition. Close your eyes and listen to the whispered echoes of past victories and defeats that linger in the air. Feel the weight of the medals that have been won and lost here, each one representing a lifetime of dedication and sacrifice. As you walk along the edge of the track, the texture of the rubber beneath your fingertips reminds you of the countless footsteps that have passed this way before. The rhythm of your own heartbeat quickens as you imagine the sprinters crouched at the starting line, poised and ready to explode into motion at the crack of the gun. Pause for a moment and breathe in the scent of the sun-warmed grass and the faint tang of sweat lingering in the air. Each breath is a reminder of the physical and emotional intensity that has filled this place time and time again. As you reach the highest row of seats, the view of the stadium laid out before you is breathtaking. The sheer scale of the venue, with its elegant lines and sweeping curves, is a testament to the power of human ambition and creativity. Take a moment to reflect on the journey that has brought you here, to this place of triumph and tragedy, joy and heartbreak. Let the emotions wash over you, a tidal wave of awe and reverence for all that has been achieved within these hallowed walls. And as you finally make your way back toward the entrance, know that you carry with you a piece of the spirit of the Olympic Stadium, a sense of connection to all who have come before and all who will come after. Embrace the memories you have made here, and let them inspire you to reach for new heights in your own life’s journey.
The Olympic Stadium (OAKA) in Athens offers audio descriptive guides for visitors with visual impairments. Sensory-friendly hours are also available for visitors who may benefit from a quieter and less stimulating environment. For specific information on scheduling and availability of these services, it is recommended to contact the stadium directly or visit their official website.
Olympic Stadium, also known as OAKA (Olympic Athletic Center of Athens), is not just a sports venue for the locals of Athens. It holds a special place in the hearts of many residents due to its historical significance and the memories it evokes. Local writer, Sofia, recalls attending the 2004 Summer Olympics at the stadium and being swept away by the energy and excitement of the games. She vividly remembers the cheers of the crowd, the chills she felt as the athletes competed, and the sense of pride that swelled within her as she watched Greece’s own athletes take the stage. For Sofia, the stadium represents a moment in time when Athens was at the center of the world, showcasing its beauty, history, and hospitality to visitors from around the globe. Visual artist, Nikos, finds inspiration in the architecture of the Olympic Stadium. The sleek lines, curved roof, and cutting-edge design make it a visually striking structure that symbolizes the modernity and progressiveness of Athens. Nikos has created several pieces of art that feature the stadium as the focal point, capturing its majesty and grandeur in a way that resonates with viewers. For many locals, OAKA is not just a sports venue, but a symbol of resilience and unity. It stands as a reminder of Greece’s ability to host major international events and overcome challenges, such as the economic crisis that followed the 2004 Olympics. The stadium continues to host a variety of sports events, concerts, and cultural festivals, bringing people together and fostering a sense of community. Whether it’s attending a football match, watching a concert under the stars, or simply admiring the stadium from afar, OAKA holds a special place in the hearts of Athenians. It is a testament to the city’s past, present, and future, a multifaceted symbol of strength, beauty, and the enduring spirit of its people.
### Olympic Stadium (OAKA), Athens: Directions and Transportation #### Directions: The Olympic Stadium (OAKA) is located in Marousi, a suburb in the northern part of Athens. Here are some transportation options to reach the stadium: - **Public Transport:** The stadium is easily accessible by the Athens Metro. You can take Line 1 (Green Line) towards Kifisia and get off at "Irini" station, which is a short walk from the stadium. There are also bus stops nearby. - **Taxi or Ride-Share:** Taxis and ride-sharing services are convenient options to reach the stadium. Make sure to use a reputable service provider and confirm the fare in advance. - **Private Car:** If you are driving to the stadium, there are parking facilities available on-site and in the surrounding area. Be prepared for traffic congestion, especially during major events. #### Accessibility: The Olympic Stadium (OAKA) is designed to be accessible to all visitors, including those with mobility challenges. The venue features ramps, elevators, designated seating areas, and accessible restrooms. If you require special assistance, you can contact the stadium management in advance to make arrangements. ### Olympic Stadium (OAKA), Athens: Ticket Booking and Discounts #### Ticket Booking: Tickets for events at the Olympic Stadium (OAKA) in Athens can be purchased through official ticketing websites, authorized vendors, and at the stadium box office on event days. It is recommended to book your tickets in advance to secure your preferred seats. #### Discounts: Depending on the event and availability, various discounts may be offered on tickets. Common discounts include student rates, senior citizen discounts, group discounts, and early-bird specials. Check the event’s official website or contact the ticketing office for specific details on available discounts. ### Olympic Stadium (OAKA), Athens: Local Amenities #### Parking: The Olympic Stadium (OAKA) offers parking facilities for visitors arriving by car. There are designated parking areas nearby, including both open-air and covered parking options. Be prepared for potential parking fees, especially during peak event times. #### Restrooms: The stadium is equipped with multiple restroom facilities, including accessible restrooms for visitors with special needs. These facilities are well-maintained and regularly cleaned to ensure a comfortable experience for all attendees. #### Dining Options: Within and around the Olympic Stadium (OAKA), you can find a variety of food and beverage vendors offering snacks, meals, and refreshments. Dietary preferences such as vegetarian, vegan, and gluten-free options are often available. Additionally, there are nearby restaurants and cafes for a more extensive dining experience before or after events.