Mount Olympus
Mountain Greece's highest mountain and mythological home of gods
Greece’s Mount Olympus, whose Mytikas peak reaches 2,917 m, draws hikers and mythology enthusiasts; the national park offers alpine trails, mountain climbing routes, and diverse flora and fauna.
Mount Olympus is the highest mountain in Greece and the central massif of the Olympus range, dominated by peak ridges reaching just under 3,000 metres. It is famed both as a natural landmark and for its association with ancient Greek religion.
The mountain has deep cultural significance in ancient Greek mythology as the traditional home of the Olympian gods. In the 20th century parts of the range were set aside for conservation as a national park to protect its biodiversity and historic mountain environment.
The massif rises on the border between the regions of Thessaly and Central Macedonia in northern Greece, overlooking the Aegean coast near the town of Litochoro.
- Peak height: Mytikas is 2,918 metres above sea level, making it the highest point in Greece.
- Main access point: Base access is commonly from the town of Litochoro, which sits at the mountain's eastern foot and serves as the main trailhead for many routes.
What to See #
- Mytikas (highest peak): The highest summit in the range, reaching 2,918 metres and the most technical target for climbers and scramblers.
- Skolio (secondary peak): A secondary high point at about 2,911 metres that is a common alternative summit in multi-peak itineraries.
How to Get to Mount Olympus #
Most climbers and visitors start from Litochoro, on the eastern foot of Olympus. Litochoro is reachable by bus from Thessaloniki (about 1-1.5 hours) or by car. From Litochoro, follow signs toward Prionia (by car or taxi) to reach trailheads that lead up into the national park.
Tips for Visiting Mount Olympus #
- For climbers, the Litochoro-Prionia route is the most popular; start early to avoid afternoon storms.
- Sleep at one of the refuges (Spilios Agapitos or Petrostrouga) to split the ascent into manageable stages.
- Even in summer, temperatures drop sharply above the tree line; storms build rapidly - carry warm layers and check mountain weather forecasts.
Best Time to Visit Mount Olympus #
Best climbed between June and September when the main trails are accessible; watch weather closely and plan for altitude.
Weather & Climate near Mount Olympus #
Mount Olympus's climate is classified as Subarctic - Subarctic climate with cold summers (peaking in July) and freezing winters (coldest in February). Temperatures range from -10°C to 16°C. Moderate rainfall (932 mm/year).
January
January is freezing with highs of -4°C and lows of -9°C. Regular rainfall (92 mm) and breezy conditions.
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February
February is the coldest month with highs of -4°C and lows of -10°C. Regular rainfall (89 mm) and breezy conditions.
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March
March is freezing with highs of -2°C and lows of -8°C. Regular rainfall (91 mm).
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April
April is freezing with highs of 3°C and lows of -4°C. Regular rainfall (99 mm).
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May
May is cold with highs of 8°C and lows of -1°C. Regular rainfall (85 mm).
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June
June is cold with highs of 13°C and lows of 2°C. Moderate rainfall (65 mm).
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July
July is cold with highs of 16°C and lows of 4°C. Moderate rainfall (54 mm).
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August
August is cold with highs of 15°C and lows of 4°C. Moderate rainfall (50 mm).
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September
September is cold with highs of 12°C and lows of 2°C. Moderate rainfall (45 mm).
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October
October is cold with highs of 6°C and lows of -1°C. Moderate rainfall (73 mm).
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November
November is freezing with highs of 1°C and lows of -5°C. Regular rainfall (89 mm).
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December
December is freezing with highs of -2°C and lows of -7°C. The wettest month with 100 mm of rain and breezy conditions.
