Location & Transportation
The port is right in the heart of Katakolon (or Katakolo), with the town’s only main street bustling with outdoor cafés and shops just a five-minute walk away. You’ll also find duty-free shopping available right on the pier. Katakolon is not only a pleasant seaside town with a charming gulf view of the Ionian Sea—it is also your gateway to Olympia. From the port, you can easily head out to visit the ancient sanctuary where Greeks celebrated the sacred games dedicated to Zeus.
Sightseeing
Katakolon itself offers a relaxing taste of local life:
- Stroll along the seafront and check out the town center, set on a picturesque peninsula.
- Visit the historic Katakolon Lighthouse, first opened in 1865, which offers lovely views of the gulf.
- Relax on nearby beaches where you can rent sunbeds. For example, [Plakes Beach (also known as Reneta Beach)] is just a short walk (about 200 meters) from the port. It’s a small pebbly beach with crystal clear waters and a quaint beach bar with palm-like umbrellas.
- Discover local museums including:
- The Museum of Ancient Greek Technology, displaying innovative ancient machines.
- The Museum of the Ancient Greek Musical Instruments and Toys which exhibits rare artifacts related to music and play from bygone eras.
Tours & Excursions
If you’re keen to explore further, Katakolon is the jumping-off point for trips to Olympia:
- By Taxi: A standard taxi fare is around €43 one way from Katakolon to Olympia.
- By Bus: The local KTEL bus runs from Katakolon to Purgos (about 13 km), where you change for the next leg (17 km) to Olympia. Buses stop right in front of the port.
- By Train: A modern train service runs from Katakolon to Olympia in about 45 minutes at roughly €10 return. The train station is conveniently located at the end of the shopping area, only a short 200-yard walk from the port gates.
- Coach Transfers: Several coach companies offer guided transfers to Olympia and other local attractions like Chlemoutsi Castle. Return transfers by coach can start at around €15 with no reservations usually necessary.
- Local Charm: Enjoy a horse and cart ride within Katakolon for about €5 per person. The ride takes approximately 30 minutes and winds through local streets and along a beach section—an easy and memorable way to see the town.
For detailed schedules on buses and trains, check out the Katakolon Train and Bus Schedules.
Shopping
On the main street, you’ll find a good variety of souvenir shops and specialty stores where you can pick up local crafts and mementos. There’s also a duty-free shop right on the pier offering competitive prices on liquor and tobacco—often a better deal than onboard.
Dining
If you decide to stay local rather than venture out to Olympia, a leisurely seafront lunch is a fantastic alternative. Katakolon boasts several tavernas and cafés serving fresh seafood, traditional Greek dishes, and light Mediterranean fare. Enjoy a relaxed meal with beautiful views of the gulf while soaking in the local atmosphere.
Culture & Local Events
Katakolon and the surrounding region celebrate a rich blend of ancient traditions and modern Greek life:
- Local Currency & Language: Greece uses the Euro (EUR). Greek is the official language, but English is widely understood in tourist areas.
- Business Hours & Services:
- Public services typically operate Monday to Friday from about 8:00 am to 2:00 pm.
- Retail and specialty shops usually open Monday to Friday (9:00–13:30 and 17:00–21:00) and have extended hours during the busy summer season.
- Local Flavor: As you explore, you might come across local festivals, markets, or cultural events that celebrate the town’s heritage and the ancient Olympic spirit. Keep an eye out for seasonal events or small-scale celebrations in the summer months.
- Safety & Awareness: As always when traveling, keep an eye on your belongings, especially in crowded areas. In case of emergencies, dial 112.