Amazing Marathon and legendary Thermopylae 8-h private tour

Explore Amazing Marathon and legendary Thermopylae 8-h private tour!

Explore the incredible stories of Marathon and Thermopylae on this exclusive tour. Delve into the key battles of ancient history, unraveling the mysteries of the past. Discover why a small group of Greeks bravely faced a larger enemy force and why the Battle of Marathon was a pivotal event in the shaping of European culture.

Marathon! The battle that has changed the world!

Your day in Athens includes visits to

Marathon: Experience the grandeur of Marathon.
Historic Marathon: See the museum of ancient Marathon or the museum of the Olympic games, witness the legends through the archaeological site of marathon.
Thermopylae: This historic district, carries the legend of the 300 Spartans and vibrant atmosphere, is a must-visit destination for anyone exploring the vibrant of Thermopylae.
Historic Thermopylae (Hot Gates): Enjoy breathtaking views of the monument of the 300 and their Spartan king Leonidas on a sightseeing tour that includes highlights such as the Thespians memorial, omphalos, the hot gates, the battlefield of the hot gates, and more.

Panoramic Sightseeing Highlights (from inside the vehicle)

Travel through east Athens following the same way of the classical Marathon till we reach the city of marathon. After Marathon we will take the way to Thermopylae through picturesque land scape of central Greece.

Explore Marathon and Thermopylae with a private vehicle for a day filled with historical discoveries and luxurious adventures!

Tumulus Of Athenians
The Marathon Archeological Museum
Marathon Battlefield with the Marathon Bay
The famous Marathon Lake
Thermopylae’s Battlefield
The monument of King Leonidas and the 300 Spartans
The monument of the 700 Thespians
The Kolonos hill
The hot Springs
Expertise: Experience the enlightening commentary of a skilled tour driver/guide who speaks fluent English, as they delve into the rich history and vibrant culture of the city through engaging storytelling.
Pickup and drop off: At your accommodation in Athens, cruise terminal at Piraeus cruise port

Your Trusted Guide Since ’89

Athens Tours Greece has been offering exceptional travel services for over three decades, unveiling the finest treasures of Greece. Our seasoned guides and committed team guarantee an unforgettable journey that captures the deep-rooted history, lively culture, and breathtaking landscapes of this captivating land. Come along on a thrilling expedition delving into historical sites, cultural experiences, and scenic wonders, crafting enduring memories to treasure forever.

Historians believe that the victory in 490 BC played a crucial role in shaping Western civilization, as it paved the way for a renaissance in Athenian culture. This revival sparked significant progress in fields such as mathematics, drama, philosophy, and astronomy. Without this turning point, the world as we know it today might look very different, with Europe, Asia, and America potentially taking on entirely new forms.

Marathon: Greek Marathon Legend

Marathon: Experience the legend

Unraveling the Mysteries of Ancient Marathon: A Journey Back in Time. The Marathon, an ancient event from Greece, represents endurance and strength. The modern marathon continues this tradition.

Have you ever been curious about the beginnings of the modern-day marathon? The ancient city of Marathon has the answers, with a history dating back over 2,500 years. The name “marathon” originates from the famous Battle of Marathon in 490 BC, where the Athenians triumphed over the Persians. According to legend, a messenger named Pheidippides ran from the battlefield of Marathon to Athens, a distance of around 26 miles (42 Km), to announce the Greek victory before tragically passing away. This incredible act is believed to have inspired the inception of the modern marathon race.

The first modern Olympic Games took place in Athens in 1896 and featured a marathon race that followed the historic path from Marathon to Athens. This event has since become a powerful symbol of persistence and determination, inspiring millions of runners to join races on a global scale annually.

The Marathon Race: A Modern Tradition

The Legendary Classic Marathon Run in Athens

Are you ready to embark on a journey back in time to the birthplace of the marathon? The Classic Marathon Run in Athens is not just a race; it’s a celebration of history, endurance, and the human spirit. Join us as we delve into the rich tapestry of this iconic event and discover why it continues to captivate runners and spectators alike.

The marathon has its origins in ancient Greece, where it was a key part of the Panhellenic Games. Legend has it that the first-ever marathon was run by Pheidippides, a Greek soldier who ran from the battlefield of Marathon to Athens to deliver news of a military victory over the Persians. The distance he covered? A staggering 26.2 miles, which now serves as the standard length of a marathon.

The Modern-Day Classic Marathon Run: Fast forward to the present day, and the Classic Marathon Run in Athens pays homage to this historic event. Runners from all over the world gather in the city of Athens to test their limits and follow in the footsteps of ancient heroes. The route takes participants from the town of Marathon to the majestic Panathenaic Stadium in Athens, mirroring Pheidippides’ legendary journey.

Unveiling the Legendary Battle of Thermopylae: A Defining Moment in History

Nestled between steep mountains and the sea, Thermopylae stands as a testament to one of the most iconic battles in ancient history. This narrow pass in Greece witnessed a clash of civilizations that would go on to define the course of Western civilization.

The Battle of Thermopylae: A Brief Overview. In 480 BC, a small force of Greek warriors, led by King Leonidas of Sparta, stood in defiance against the mighty Persian army led by King Xerxes. The Greeks, vastly outnumbered, displayed unparalleled courage and military prowess in their attempt to halt the Persian invasion.
The Strategic Importance of Thermopylae. Situated at a crucial point on the coast of Greece, Thermopylae served as a strategic chokepoint that controlled access to the heart of the Greek mainland. The narrow pass allowed a small force to hold off a much larger army, making it an ideal defensive position.
The Heroic Stand of the Spartans. Despite facing overwhelming odds, the Spartan warriors, along with their allies, fought valiantly against the Persian forces. Their bravery and sacrifice became the stuff of legend, inspiring generations to come with tales of courage and honor.
Legacy of Thermopylae. The Battle of Thermopylae may have ended in defeat for the Greeks, but it sparked a sense of unity and determination among the city-states of Greece. This unity ultimately led to the eventual defeat of the Persian invaders at the Battle of Salamis and the preservation of Greek autonomy.
Visiting Thermopylae Today. Today, visitors to Thermopylae can still see remnants of the ancient battlefield and pay homage to the brave warriors who fought there. The site serves as a reminder of the enduring legacy of courage and sacrifice that defined the battle.

Spartans: The best soldiers the world has ever known!

To conclude, you will visit the battlefield in Thermopylae, the monument of the 300 Spartans, and the statue of Leonidas standing exactly opposite Kolonos Hill (visit) where the persistent Spartans left their last breath.

A place too sacred for words. The statue of the 700 Thespian and the hot springs. The philosopher Apollonios Tyanefs in the 1st century AD was once asked; which is the highest mountain in the world? His answer was astonished: “Kolonos is the highest mountain in the world because on this mountain law-keeping and noble self-sacrifice have put up a monument which has its based on the earth and reaches the stars”.

Resources:

Thermopylae (Hot Gates)

Special Notes for Marathon

Marathon Tomb Archaeological Area

Monday: Closed
Tuesday to Sunday: 8 AM–3 PM

Opening Hours of The Archaeological Museum of Marathon

Winter:
From 1-11-2019 to 31-3-2020: Daily 8:30 – 15:30, Tuesdays closed.

Summer:
From 15-6-2020 to 31-10-2020: Daily 9:00 – 16:00, Tuesdays closed.

**Last entry: 20 minutes before closing time

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

Read our 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.