Ancient Olympia Tour | Explore the Birthplace of the Olympic Games
Visit Ancient Olympia on a private tour, exploring the birthplace of the Olympic Games and its fascinating archaeological ruins.
- Duration: 12 Hours
- Difficulty: Easy
- Type: Private Tour
Ancient Olympia: Full-Day Private Tour from Athens
This full-day private tour to Ancient Olympia and the Corinth Canal is your chance to explore beyond Athens and discover the birthplace of
the modern Olympic Games.
As Greeks say, “Greece is not just Athens,” and in this case, it couldn’t be more true. Visit the archaeological site of Olympia, home to the ancient Olympics and the Temple of Zeus, a testament to Greece’s rich history.
Walk among the ruins, admire the iconic stadium, and explore the Temple of Hera, where the Olympic flame is lit for the modern Games. Learn about Olympia’s rich heritage and immerse yourself in the history of one of Greece’s most revered sites.
- Pick-Up from Athens: Your driver will pick you up from your hotel or a location of your choice.
Stop 1 – Corinth Canal: After an hour’s drive, reach the Corinth Canal, a marvel of engineering that connects the Ionian and Aegean Seas. Admire the breathtaking view of the canal’s steep limestone walls and watch vessels navigate the narrow waterway
Stop 2 – Ancient Olympia: (2.5-hour drive) Explore the birthplace of the Olympic Games, featuring over 70
significant structures and landmarks:- Temple of Zeus: A masterpiece of the Doric order, once home to the gold and ivory statue of Zeus, one of the Seven Wonders of the Ancient World.
- Temple of Hera: The oldest temple in Olympia and the site where the Olympic flame is lit to this day.
- The Stadium: Witness the site of ancient athletic competitions that inspired the modern Olympic Games.
- The Nymphaeum: An ornate water distribution structure for the Olympic crowds.
- The Palaestra: A training ground for wrestling, boxing, and other martial arts.
- The Philippeion: A circular memorial dedicated to Philip II of Macedon and his family, including Alexander the Great.
- Archaeological Museum of Olympia: Visit one of Greece’s most important museums, housing
treasures like the statue of Hermes and the Infant Dionysus by
Praxiteles and the Nike of Paionios. - Lunch and Free Time: Enjoy traditional Greek cuisine at a local tavern and explore the village shops for handmade souvenirs.
- Return to Athens (3.5-hour drive): Depart Olympia and relax on your journey back to Athens.
- Professional, English-speaking driver
- Private, air-conditioned vehicle
- Vehicle fuel
- Complimentary bottled water
- Free WiFi during the journey
- Private tour experience
- Entry tickets to archaeological sites and museums
- Food and Drinks
- Licensed tour guide (available upon request and depending on availability)
- Gratuity at your discretion
Important Notes
- Infant seats available upon request
- Not wheelchair or stroller accessible
- Not suitable for pets
- No nearby public transportation
- Infants must not sit on laps
- This is a private tour, exclusively for your group
- Pick-up and drop-off available from your hotel, villa, or chosen location
- Drivers are not licensed tour guides but offer valuable insights in fluent English
Cancellation Policy
- 100% refund: For cancellations made 8 or more days before the tour date.
- 30% cancellation fee: For cancellations made between 7 and 2 days before the tour date.
- 100% cancellation fee: For cancellations made 1 day or less before the tour date.
What to Bring
- Comfortable walking shoes
- Hats, sunglasses, and sunscreen (especially during summer)
Why Choose This Tour
This tour to Ancient Olympia is perfect for history enthusiasts and those looking to explore the roots of the Olympic Games.
By choosing this private tour, you will enjoy:
- Privacy and comfort throughout the journey
- Flexibility in the schedule and stops
- Insights from an English-speaking driver
Step into the past and experience the rich history of Ancient Olympia,
where the Olympic spirit was born.
