Run the Original
In 490 BC…
…the first battle for democracy was fought at the Greek village of Marathon. Though overwhelmingly out numbered by an invading Persian Army, the citizen-soldiers of Athens prevailed and in so doing allows the first democracy to be established and preserved the classical Greek way of life that became the foundation of western civilization.Legend has it that, when the battle was won, the Athenian messenger Phidippides ran twenty-four miles to Athens, carrying news of that stunning victory. The modern marathon commemorates this feat.
The Athens Marathon is recognized as the original marathon course and was the same course for the 2004 Olympics held in Athens.
An open letter from your host, Paul Samaras
Visiting any foreign destination that is new to you, can be awkward and confusing for the first-time visitor.
Things move at a much slower pace and it takes longer to get to places than one might expect.
Read more of Paul’s letter click here.
Videos
This is a summary of our program.
(6 day package does not include as much site seeing.
Please see Itinerary for details)
New 12 Day 11 Night Tour
We have added to our 11 day package a visit to the ancient city of Olympia, the birth place of the first Olympics 776 B. C. We can run in the ancient stadium and visit its magnificent museum with many classical statues and see the Helmet of Militiades, the Athenian General of the Battle of Marathon. Olympia is also the location of the lighting of the Olympic Flame.
All of our packages come with guaranteed entry, entry fee and processing
Our tour packages are not your typical tours. See our customers testimonials
Celebrating Our 23rd Anniversary
Apostolos Greek Tours “official travel agent for the Athens Marathon” has been providing quality, hassle-free marathon tour travel packages for runners to participate in the Athens Marathon since 1994.
History of the Athens Marathon
The Marathon has always had a prominent place in the hearts and minds of athletes. It represents the ultimate athletic effort —where the human body, mind and soul are tested to their limits.
Learn why the Athens Marathon is on so many runners’ bucket lists
And the Athens Marathon is the ultimate Marathon experience, recreating each year the incredible run that started it all 2,500 years ago. Whether you’re a runner or not, we hope you’ll take a few minutes to explore this site and learn more about the Athens Marathon, and why it has such a special place in the hearts of runners throughout the world.
Here is a good place to start.
Battle of Marathon (Part 2/3)
Battle of Marathon (Part 3/3)
Your Coach, Jeff Galloway
Due to a prior commitment, Barbara and I will not be able to be in Athens for this years program but you will have excellent support from Paul and his staff.
The national program director of my Galloway Training programs, Chris Twiggs, will be there and can answer questions about the course, run-walk-run strategies, and virtually anything else about marathoning. Chris is a Boston Qualifier, and knows my system thoroughly.
When you sign up, you’ll receive Jeff’s training schedule which will provide the training you needed for our race in November. Jeff will also be available to you via email for any clarifications or training questions.
Ahepa
How would you like to get a Free Trip to Greece to run or walk the Athens Marathon, 2017?
Participate in the AHEPA charity fund raising.