Inspiring full-day private tour to Ancient Olympia
Embark on an exclusive 10-hour private tour of Ancient Olympia, the true essence of ancient Greece and the birthplace of the iconic Olympic Games. This historic site has forever shaped the course of history, leaving an indelible mark on human civilization. As the people of Greece proudly proclaim, their country extends far beyond the vibrant city of Athens, and this tour allows you to experience it firsthand. Immerse yourself in the wonders of Olympia, one of the most important destinations in the world.
The route from Athens to Olympia is incredibly scenic; for part of the way, you will be driving along the picturesque Saronic Gulf and passing through the famous Isthmus of Corinth. As you journey through the Peloponnese, keep an eye out for the region’s stunning natural beauty, particularly its renowned olive groves and lemon trees, which add to the charm and allure of this unforgettable landscape.
Itinerary of the 10-Hour Tour to Ancient Olympia
Athens – Corinth Canal – Tripolis – Pyrgos – Olympia – Athens
- Ancient Olympia: Explore the birthplace of the Olympic Games and discover the awe-inspiring ruins of this UNESCO World Heritage Site
- Corinth Canal: Witness the engineering marvel of the Corinth Canal, a 6.4-kilometer-long waterway separating the Peloponnese from the Greek mainland
- Scenic Greek Countryside: Admire the picturesque landscapes of the Peloponnese region
- Expert Tour Driver: Benefit from the knowledge and guidance of an experienced, friendly, and English-speaking tour driver
- Immersive 10-Hour Tour: Embark on a captivating journey that seamlessly blends modern wonders with ancient myths, showcasing the best of Greece
Corinth Canal
Join us for an unforgettable trip to Ancient Olympia and the Corinth Canal as we depart the bustling city of Athens early in the morning. Our experienced driver will guide you along the scenic coastal route, taking you out of the city and into the picturesque Peloponnese region.
After an hour’s scenic drive, we arrive at the famous Corinth Canal, an engineering marvel that connects central Greece to the Peloponnese peninsula. Did you know that the Corinth Canal, completed in 1893, is a 6.4 kilometer long and 21.4 meter wide waterway that separates the Peloponnese from mainland Greece?
Take a moment to snap some breathtaking photos from the impressive bridge overlooking the canal before we head to the ancient ruins of Olympia for an immersive archaeological experience.
Discover Ancient Olympia
Experience the awe-inspiring beauty of Olympia as you witness the perfectly preserved original site. Take the thrilling opportunity to run the same track race as ancient Olympians and take in the lush green surroundings. Step inside the Archaeological Museum of Olympia to marvel at its collection of remarkable artifacts and statues. Pay homage to the god of gods at the Sanctuary of Olympian Zeus and immerse yourself in the history of the Olympic Games at the Museum of the Olympic Games.
The first known Olympic Games took place in 776 B.C. and continued for nearly 1,200 years until Emperor Theodosius I stopped them in 393 A.D. The Olympic Games brought the Greek people together as a nation and in their religious beliefs. The games combined the Greeks’ strong belief in their heroic past with the idea of being the best in body, mind, and spirit. More than just helping individuals and cities do well, the games also represented the deep meaning of peace and freedom. It’s no wonder that this enduring and highly respected event remains so important today.
After exploring the wonders of Olympia and indulging in a late lunch, our tour will bring you back to Athens by the same scenic route in the late afternoon.
Resources:
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.
