9 Best Things to Do in Marathon Greece

By Evgenia Mataragka

Marathon Greece is a historically significant small town 42 km from central Athens. I have visited the town of Marathon multiple times for various reasons: to go out with friends to local taverns popular for their fish dishes, to see the ancient sites, and numerous times (since I was a kid with my parents) to swim in the nearby Schinias sandy beach.

Marathon Greece is a renowned town because it is the:

A serene view of Marathon Lake in Athens, Greece, surrounded by lush greenery and tall reeds. The calm, clear water reflects the blue sky and the vibrant trees, creating a tranquil and picturesque natural landscape.
Marathon Lake
  1. Hometown of the Battle of Marathon in 490 BCE where a small Greek force triumphed over the vast Persian army.
  2. Starting location of the Authentic Classic Athens Marathon Race.
  3. Athens’ main water supplier with the impressive Marathon Lake and Dam.
  4. Moreover, Marathon offers visitors a captivating natural environment, featuring a picturesque gorge and numerous hiking trails. The National Park of Schinias is famous for its windsurfing opportunities, providing a perfect blend of adventure and relaxation by the sea.

Discover the 9 top attractions in Marathon Greece: travel tips, accommodations, and the perfect nearby beach destination!

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Hidden Gems in Marathon Greece

Evgenia from Travel the Greek Way, dressed in an orange shirt and blue backpack, stands beside a small, white roadside shrine with a red roof at Marathon Lake in Attica, Greece. The background features rolling hills, lush greenery, and the lake, all under a clear blue sky.
With my brand new GoPro camera near Marathon Lake

The town is mostly known as the birthplace of the original Marathon race of Feidipidis, but there is a lot to do in Marathon making it the perfect Athens day trip. These are some of the best ideas for things to do in Marathon Greece:

1. Visit the Incredible Run Museum in Marathon Greece

A sunny day at the Marathon Run Museum in Greece, showcasing the entrance flanked by statues and lush greenery, with Greek and European Union flags waving in the background.
Marathon Run Museum Entrance

Visiting the museum is one of the best family-friendly activities in Marathon Greece. For enthusiasts and Olympic fans alike, a visit to Marathon’s specialized museum is an absolute must. This treasure trove is brimming with running memorabilia, including medals, cups, and souvenirs from marathon races across the globe.

Of particular pride is the original gold medal awarded to Greek Spiridon (Spiros) Louis, the inaugural Marathon winner in the 1st Modern Olympic Games in 1896. The Marathon Run Museum can be found in the center of Marathon town and is open Tuesday to Friday from 9h to 15h. Saturday & Sunday: 10h to 14h. Monday is closed.

2. Explore the Charming Town of Marathon

The central square of Marathon town, Greece, with a historical monument and a charming church with twin bell towers, surrounded by trees and quaint buildings under a bright blue sky.
Marathon’s main town

What I love about Marathon Town is its authentic Greek charm. It’s a small town with local cafes and cozy yards full of vibrant flowers. It’s the perfect place to relax, enjoy a coffee, and soak in the friendly, laid-back atmosphere.

A quiet street in Marathon town, Greece, featuring a blend of rustic, weathered brick buildings and modern structures, with a few parked cars and lush greenery enhancing the charm of the area.

There is not a lot to do here besides the Run Museum and the Marathon race starting point. However, you can stroll its cute streets and if you happen to visit during summer as I did, the place will look very quiet and almost deserted! By the way, it was also quite warm so you better wear a straw sun protection hat and apply lots of sunscreen (this is 70 SPF!).

3. Participate in the Classic Athens Marathon Greece

A massive crowd of runners at the starting line of the 2023 Athens Marathon, "The Authentic," in Greece. The scene is vibrant with participants eagerly beginning the race, surrounded by trees and colorful flags, under a banner that marks the official start of the event.
The Starting Line in Marathon Greece

Participate in the ultimate runner’s challenge and where is better to do so than the birthplace of the real Marathon? However, a word of caution: the 42,195m stretch from Marathon to Athens is renowned as one of the most demanding marathon routes worldwide. Are you up for the challenge? 😀

Crowds of runners and spectators at the finish line of the Athens Marathon, "The Authentic," held at the historic Panathenaic Stadium in Greece. The stadium is filled with people cheering on the participants as they complete the race, with tents and event signage visible under a partly cloudy sky.
The Ending in Athens Panathenaic Stadium Nov. 2023

Despite its challenging reputation, thousands of runners from around the globe continue to embrace the celebration. In the Marathon 2023 event, an impressive 21,000 marathon enthusiasts took on the classic 42,195-meter route, commencing their run from Marathon and triumphantly crossing the finish line at the iconic Panathenaic Stadium—the very site where the inaugural Modern Olympic Games unfolded in 1896!

Evgenia of Travel the Greek Way taking a selfie at the Panathenaic Stadium during the Athens Marathon, with a Greek flag waving in the background and a bustling crowd enjoying the event under a clear blue sky.
Athens Panathenaic Stadium November 2023

The Kenyan Edwin Kiprop Kiptoo was the big winner in the 40th Authentic Athens Marathon, even setting a new course record with a time of 2:10:34.

A group of volunteers at the finish line of the Athens Marathon, "The Authentic," held at the Panathenaic Stadium in Athens Greece, handing out medals to finishers. The stadium is filled with spectators cheering under a partly cloudy sky.

More than 70,000 runners from a total of 140 countries had registered to run either on the classic route or in various other parallel races. The 41st Marathon will be held on 9 – 10 November 2024. Would you like to participate in it? Register on the official Marathon Run page here.

4. Visit the Site of the Ancient Battle of Marathon Greece

A historical painting depicting the Battle of Marathon, showcasing rows of Greek and Persian soldiers clashing with spears and shields in a dramatic and intense scene.
Battle of Marathon between Greeks and Persians© e-today. gr

One of the best things to do in Marathon Greece for history buffs is to visit the site of the ancient battle of Marathon. In 490 BCE, Athenian hoplites demonstrated remarkable unity as they faced and defeated the overwhelming Persian invasion force in the iconic Battle of Marathon. According to Greek historian Herodotus, the Persian army and fleet outnumbered the 11,000 ancient Greek hoplites, comprised of 10,000 Athenians and 1,000 soldiers from Plataea (a town near Thebes).

Aerial view of Marathon, Greece, showcasing the sprawling town with its mix of residential areas, green fields, and proximity to the beautiful coastline under a clear sky. It is also the location of the Marathon battle.
The location of the Marathon battle

When the Battle of Marathon concluded, an Athenian soldier named Pheidippides undertook an extraordinary run from Marathon to Athens to deliver the news of the victory. Exhausted but determined, he managed to utter the single word: ‘Νenikikamen,’ meaning ‘we won,’ before succumbing to a fatal heart attack.

Other Greek Battles against the Persians in Greek territory are:

The burial mound (Tymbos) of Marathon in Greece, a grassy hill surrounded by olive trees and cypress trees, marking the site of the historic Battle of Marathon.
Marathon Tumulus

The Archaeological Site of the Ancient Battle of Marathon is quite modest but powerful in its significance. One notable feature is the Athenian Tumulus, a solemn 10-meter-high burial mound. Here lie the remains of 192 Athenians who bravely gave their lives in the historic Battle of Marathon.

Inside the archaeological museum in Marathon, Greece, displaying ancient statues and artifacts in a well-lit, modern setting, highlighting the region's rich historical heritage.
Marathon Archaeological Museum

While the Marathon Archaeological Museum is not located at the site itself, it’s well worth the visit to the nearby area of Vrana. Despite its size, the museum offers a rich display of impressive statues and artifacts spanning the Neolithic, Classical, and Roman Eras.

Admission is €6, and the museum is closed on Mondays. If you plan to visit during winter, it’s advisable to contact them at Tel: +30 2294055155 to confirm operating hours. The entrance fee covers access to the Tumuli area, the museum, and the Early Helladic Cemetery in Tsepi.

Marathon Timuli Tomb of Plataea.An ancient burial mound in Marathon, Greece, featuring a stone-lined entrance path leading to a wooden door, set against a backdrop of rolling hills and a partly cloudy sky.
Plataean Tumulus – photo 2steps.gr

Close by lies the Plataean Tumulus, serving as the resting place for the fallen Plataeans from the Battle of Marathon. Adjacent to the burial site stands a victory column, a testament to the shared valor of the Athenians and Plataeans in the historic battle.

Tour Tip: If you love ancient battlefields then this guided tour to Marathon, Salamina, Thermopylae, and Plataea is ideal for you.

5. Discover the Unique Sanctuary of the Egyptian Gods (Brexiza)

Two ancient statues stand at the Sanctuary of the Egyptian Gods in Marathon, Greece, surrounded by greenery and remnants of old stone structures under a sunny sky.
Sanctuary of the Egyptian Gods Marathon

This is one of the best things to do in Marathon Greece for history buffs, visit the extraordinary Sanctuary of the Egyptian Gods. When I first found out about this site – totally by accident as I was at Marathon Beach for a swim – I couldn’t believe my eyes. Egyptian statues in an ancient Greek archaeological site? How is that even possible?

The Sanctuary of the Egyptian Gods' in Marathon, Greece, featuring ancient ruins and pathways, surrounded by greenery and trees, with a person exploring the area under a partly cloudy sky.
The Sanctuary of the Egyptian Gods’ pathway

How was the Sanctuary of Egyptian Gods Constructed in Marathon Greece?

Herodes Atticus was a wealthy Roman aristocrat and a great benefactor of Athens (Built also the Odeon of Herodes Atticus in Acropolis). He lived in the area during the 2nd century CE and he set up the sanctuary at the borders of his estate.

Today, you can walk around the site, and see the replicas of Egyptian statues (the authentic ones are displayed in the Marathon Archaeological Museum), remnants of opulent Roman baths, and a sizable oval fish pond. Notably, the site boasts monumental marble oil lamps, a rarity in Greece

Entrance to the site daily from 8:30 – 15:30, closed on Tuesdays.

A scenic coastal walkway in Marathon, Greece, lined with tall palm trees and lush green grass, with benches and people enjoying the beach and sea views under clear skies.
Nea Makri Beach

The Sanctuary is situated at Marathon-Nea Makri Beach, a charming locale perfect for a stroll and food tasting of fresh seafood at one of the many seaside taverns. It’s an ideal place to unwind and savor the beauty of the surroundings after your visit.

6. Marathon Greece Νature Reserves: The Lake and the Marble Dam

A scenic view of the road on the Marathon Dam lake in Greece, captured from inside a car. The road is flanked by tall trees and marked by traffic lights, leading to a picturesque lake surrounded by hills under a clear blue sky.
The road on the dam

The Marathon Lake is an artificial lake with dam walls reinforced using Pentelic marble—the very same marble used in the construction of the Parthenon. It is located 9 km from Marathon Town.

This lake works as the main water reservoir that supplies Athens with drinking water, so swimming is not allowed!

A scenic view of Marathon Lake in Athens, Greece, with clear blue water surrounded by lush, rolling hills and greenery under a bright sky.
Marathon Lake

The lake is a stunning place for you to walk or bike around, even though some parts of it have restricted access. Over the years, it has attracted wildlife, and the surrounding area is lush green and fertile—ideal for you to enjoy a stroll or, even better, hike.

You may also enjoy: Best Day Trips from Athens

7. Best hiking trails in Marathon Greece: The Gorge

A stunning view of the Marathon Dam in Greece, showcasing the expansive stone structure curving gracefully amidst lush greenery. The clear blue sky and the calm waters of the lake create a serene and picturesque landscape.
Marathon Lake Dam

Right on Marathon Lake, you can hike one of the most beautiful areas in Athens, the Marathon Gorge. Some basic info on the signposted trail is:

Trail Type: Loop – Distance: ~11.4 km – Elevation Gain: 250 m
Difficulty: Easy – Dogs allowed: Yes

We started early in the morning at the top of the Marathon Lake Dam, clad in hiking gear and laden with bottles of water, everyone was quite happy and cheerful. We arrived in the area using our vehicles. The weather was bright, sunny, and slightly fresh—perfect for a hike!

The Marathon Dam in Greece, showcasing its massive stone wall and a small, ancient-looking temple-like structure at its base, with people walking nearby under a clear blue sky. The temple is a copy of the Athenian Treasury Temple iin Delphi.
Athenian Treasury Temple in Marathon

The trail begins just across from the abandoned and completely disrepair café, which offers a view of Marathon Lake. It winds up through a dirt road, leaving the lake behind on our right side. Hiking downhill, we reached the back of the dam, where a stunning replica of the Athenian Treasury found in the Delphi Archaeological site stands.

After taking our photos, we continued hiking to the actual gorge. Flanked by lovely plane trees and accompanied by a small stream of clear water on our right side, it was truly beautiful!

A group of hikers walking along a forest path with a dog in Marathon, Greece, surrounded by tall trees and lush greenery under a clear sky.
Hiking in Marathon Greece (doggie Zozo passed away in early 2024)

Before long, we arrived at the medieval Oinoi Tower, constructed in 1250 CE by the Frankish lord of Athens, Guy I de la Roche.

A tall, medieval stone Oinoi tower partially hidden by dense green foliage, set against a bright blue sky in Marathon, Greece.
Medieval Oinoi Tower

The landscape was adorned with flowers—daisies and daffodils—and I noticed hawks or small eagles soaring high above, likely in search of prey. The valley unfolded in its beauty, and we could hear (and occasionally catch a whiff of) the sheep and goats. The barking of dogs echoed from behind the surrounding hills.

With at least one dog-hiker in our group, the shepherd dogs barked non-stop whenever we passed by them. However, this only occurred twice, and they were in the distance.

A group of hikers carefully navigating a rocky stream in Marathon, Greece, surrounded by vibrant green bushes and trees on a sunny day.
Hiking Marathon streams

We crossed the riverbed a few times, adding to the excitement of this relatively easy hike. Once the hike was completed, we drove to Schinias Beach for a picnic.

8. Top Beaches near Marathon Greece: Schinias Wetland

A sandy beach Schinias in Marathon, Greece, with kite surfers enjoying the waves and hills in the background, under a clear blue sky.
Schinias Beach near Marathon

Southeast of Marathon and a short drive away, you find the Schinias Beach and Wetland, a National Park of great natural beauty. The long sandy stretch, flanked by a beautiful pine forest, is frequently struck by strong winds making Schinias an ideal beach for windsurfing sports.

The Schinias park area in Marathon, Greece, with tall pine trees providing shade and people walking along a path on a sunny day.
Schinias Beach Forest

Nearby can be found as well the Olympic Rowing Center which was used for the 2004 Summer Olympics. Schinias is great for a family, has quite shallow waters, and is great for picnics but also surfing as it can get windy. On the main road, you can find several good taverns for your lunch.

Tour Tip! Are you an adventurous type and do you love off-road experiences? Book a Marathon lake with a 4×4 vehicle private tour!

9. Saint Ephraim Monastery

The picturesque Agios Efrem Monastery in Marathon, Greece, featuring beautifully landscaped gardens, traditional architecture with red-tiled roofs, and a scenic view of the surrounding landscape under a partly cloudy sky.
Monastery of Saint Ephraim

A great Greek monastery with nuns in the area is the Holy Monastery of Saint Ephraim. One of the oldest in Athens, founded in the 10th c, is a Byzantine construction. Read here more about Byzantine churches in Athens.

It is one of the biggest pilgrimage monasteries in Greece as it also contains the remains of Saint Ephraim. The Monastery is located in Nea Makri, on the hill of Amomon. They open daily between 7 am – noon and 4 pm – 6 pm.

Fascinating Day Trips from Marathon Greece

A hiker approaching the ruins of the Fortress of Rhamnous in Marathon, Greece, with a sign indicating the historical site, under a bright sky.
Ramnous
  • The Archaeological Site of Ramnous stands as one of the best-preserved ancient demos in Attica, offering a fascinating glimpse into classical Greek life. Nestled on a hill overlooking the Euboean Gulf, this site features remnants of fortifications, temples, and residential buildings. It was an important military and religious center, famed for its Sanctuary of Nemesis, the goddess of retribution.
  • Marathon and its surrounding regions boast many wineries producing the excellent Savvatiano wine, a variety deeply rooted in the Athenian tradition. Known for its resilience to the hot, dry climate of Attica, Savvatiano grapes yield wines that are crisp, fresh, and versatile, often with delicate floral and citrus notes. Local wineries combine ancient techniques with modern viticulture to craft wines that reflect the unique terroir of the area.

Accommodation Options in Marathon Greece

A beautiful sea view from a balcony at Tiki Beach Hotel in Nea Makri, Athens, Greece. The balcony features a wooden table and chairs, with a hat placed on the table, overlooking the turquoise waters of the Aegean Sea under a clear sky.

As Marathon Town is super quiet why don’t you head to Nea Makri, and book a hotel with a sea view such as Tiki Beach Studios (budget, family-friendly)?

Waking up to the sound of waves and sipping your morning coffee while gazing at the Aegean is the perfect way to start the day. Trust me, the sea backdrop will make your stay awesome! The apartment is brilliant, near the Athens airport and the taverns!

Check here for more Athens hotels near the International Airport.

How to Get to Marathon

Marathon Greece is about 42 km from Athens Center. You can get there by KTEL bus in about 1′.35 minutes. However, the best and easiest option is to rent a car or take a guided tour with the expertise of local guides.

When is Best to Go to Marathon?

Marathon is a year-round destination. If you would like to combine it with a dive into the nearby sea then you should visit between May and October.

Interesting Facts about Marathon Town

  • Marathon is close to the Athens villages of Grammatiko, Nea Makri, Varnavas, Kapandriti, and Stamata.
  • Marathon has two sister cities:  Hopkinton, Massachusetts in the United States, and Xiamen in China.

Quiz for Marathon Greece: How Many Can You Find?

  1. What historic event is the town of Marathon best known for?
    • A. The Battle of Marathon
    • B. The first Olympic Games
    • C. The founding of Athens
    • D. The construction of the Parthenon
  2. What is the name of the ancient burial mound in Marathon?
    • A. The Acropolis
    • B. The Pnyx
    • C. The Tymbos
    • D. The Kerameikos
  3. What natural feature adds to the charm of Marathon for visitors?
    • A. Mountain ranges
    • B. Large forests
    • C. Beautiful beaches and coastline
    • D. Vast deserts
  4. Which nearby town is known for its relaxing sea views and cozy accommodations?
    • A. Nea Makri
    • B. Delphi
    • C. Corinth
    • D. Mycenae
  5. What significant archaeological site can be found in Marathon?
    • A. The Temple of Apollo
    • B. The Fortress of Rhamnous
    • C. The Theatre of Dionysus
    • D. The Temple of Zeus

Answers

  1. A. The Battle of Marathon
  2. C. The Tymbos
  3. C. Beautiful beaches and coastline
  4. A. Nea Makri
  5. B. The Fortress of Rhamnous

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Evgenia Mataragka
Hi! I am an Athens-based Greek obsessed with exploring Greece and bringing you the best travel experience ever!

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