Inspiring Thermopylae and the 300 Spartans private tour
Experience an unforgettable 8-hour private tour that takes you on a journey through the legendary battlefield of Thermopylae, where the brave 300 Spartans made their heroic stand against the mighty Persian army. This inspiring tour will take you back in time and allow you to witness the incredible courage and sacrifice of these ancient warriors. As you explore the sacred grounds of Thermopylae, you’ll be reminded of the timeless values of bravery, selflessness, and the unwavering commitment to one’s beliefs.
Highlights of the Thermopylae Private Tour:
- Visit the historic battlefield of Thermopylae, where the epic battle took place in 480 BC.
- Pay your respects at the monument dedicated to King Leonidas and the 300 Spartans who fought valiantly until the end.
- Discover the monument honoring the 700 Thespians who stood alongside the Spartans in their final moments.
- Explore the Kolonos hill, where the Spartans made their last stand while protecting the body of their fallen King.
- Experience the rejuvenating hot springs that give Thermopylae its name, which translates to ‘hot gates’ in English.
- Gain a deeper understanding of the battle and its significance at the Thermopylae’s Innovative Centre of Historical Information.
- Enjoy a Greek cuisine lunch in the seaside town of Kammena Vourla.
- Experienced English-speaking tour driver who will share fascinating insights and stories about this pivotal moment in history
Delaying the Persian Advance
The Battle of Thermopylae was a pivotal clash between the Greek city-states and the invading Persian Empire in 480 BC. The Persian King Xerxes led a massive army to conquer Greece, while a small Greek force, led by the Spartan King Leonidas and his 300 elite warriors, stood their ground at the narrow pass of Thermopylae.
Despite being vastly outnumbered, with estimates suggesting a 30-to-1 disadvantage, the Greeks held off the Persians for three days. The Spartans, known for their exceptional military prowess and unwavering loyalty, fought fiercely alongside their Greek allies, which included 700 Thespians who stayed until the end.
The Greeks’ strategy was to delay the Persian advance and inflict as much damage as possible while the Greek navy attempted to destroy the Persian fleet at Artemisium. The narrow pass at Thermopylae nullified the Persians’ numerical advantage, allowing the Greeks to hold their position.
The Heroic Sacrifice at Thermopylae
However, a local shepherd named Ephialtes betrayed the Greeks by revealing a hidden path that allowed the Persians to outflank them. Faced with impending encirclement, Leonidas dismissed most of the Greek forces, while he and his Spartans, along with the Thespians and Thebans, stayed behind to cover the retreat.
In a final act of bravery, Leonidas and his men fought to the death, ultimately succumbing to the Persian onslaught. Although the Persians emerged victorious at Thermopylae, the Greeks’ heroic stand bought valuable time for the rest of Greece to prepare their defenses.
The Battle of Thermopylae has become a symbol of courage, self-sacrifice, and the indomitable spirit of the Spartans, who chose to die in battle rather than surrender.
Resources:
- Battle of Thermopylae, a detailed description of this epic battle in 480 BC.
Tour Type
- Shore Excursion – Private tour
- Activity level: Moderate
Included in the tour
- Transport by air-conditioned Mercedes-Benz vehicle or similar appropriate for the size of your group
- Your tour will be accompanied by a professional English-speaking driver or escort possessing in-depth knowledge of Greece’s history and culture. They will provide insightful commentary throughout the journey, guiding you until the entrance of archaeological sites and museums. However, please note that drivers are not licensed to accompany you inside these venues.
- If you desire a licensed state tour guide to escort you within the archaeological sites and museums, providing comprehensive insights and explanations, we can gladly arrange one for an additional cost. These licensed guides are freelance professionals, and their availability is subject to your tour date.
- When a licensed tour guide or English-speaking tour escort accompanies a group, the professional driver may not necessarily speak English fluently. Their role is focused on providing safe transportation.
- Pick up and drop off at your hotel in Athens. Extra charge for hotels outside Athens.
- Pick up and drop off at Piraeus Port or Athens Airport.
- Pick up and drop off at our terminal: Leof. Andrea Siggrou 37, 117 43 Athens, Greece.
- Accommodation is based according to availability (for multiple-day tours only)
- Road tolls and all local taxes
Excluded from the tour
- Wine tasting fee (for wine tours)
- Olive oil tasting fee (for olive oil tasting tours)
- Optional Gratuities
- Food and beverage
- Your private chauffeur/guide will discuss a program best suited to your interest and mobile abilities. Option for a professional tour guide with a state license at an extra cost. Read more for the Differences between a Tour Guide and a Tour Driver
Cancellation Policy
Additional info
- Dress Code: When visiting religious sites, shoulders and knees must be covered out of respect for the cultural norms.
- Please review our Terms & Conditions and Frequently Asked Questions
- Upon booking, an electronic voucher will be emailed to you containing our contact information, tour details, and all necessary instructions. This voucher serves as your ticket and proof of purchase. Please present a printed or digital copy of the voucher on the day of your tour to redeem your activity.
- City Tax for Hotel Stays: Effective from January 1st, 2018, a City Tax for hotel overnights is applicable and not included in our excursion rates. Clients will need to pay this tax directly at their hotel upon check-out. The amount per room is as follows: 5-star hotel: €4/overnight || 4-star hotel: €3/overnight || 3-star hotel: €1.50/overnight
- Opening Hours and Entrance Fees for Archaeological Sites and Museums in Greece
- Entrance Fees for Children from Non-EU Countries: Starting November 1st, 2019, children aged 6 and above from non-European Union (non-EU) countries will be required to pay the full entrance fee for Museums and Archaeological sites. For children from EU countries, the existing rates remain in effect. However, it is crucial to have their passports readily available to prove their nationality.
Persons with Disabilities
- Due to uneven surfaces, certain sites are not recommended for persons with walking disabilities or using a wheelchair. Such sites are the Acropolis, the Temple of Poseidon at Sounion, Mycenae, Delphi and Meteora
- In all cases, we recommend comfortable flat-solid walking shoes, sunglasses, and sunscreen.
