Ancient Olympia: A Journey to the Birthplace of the Olympic Games

From

€440.00

Experience a full-day private tour from Athens to Ancient Olympia, the birthplace of the Olympic Games and one of Greece’s most important archaeological sites.

Overview

Experience a full-day private tour from Athens to Ancient Olympia, the birthplace of the Olympic Games and one of Greece’s most important archaeological sites. Travel comfortably with a professional driver via the scenic Athens-Patras Road, enjoy breathtaking views along the way, and immerse yourself in the history of Olympia. Explore the ancient ruins, visit world-class museums, and enjoy authentic Greek cuisine before returning to Athens in the evening.

Tour itinerary

Departure from Athens

Pick-up Location: Your hotel/apartment, airport, or port

We begin our journey early in the morning from Athens, heading towards Ancient Olympia via the Athens-Patras Road. Our professional driver, fluent in English and knowledgeable in Greek history, will ensure a comfortable and informative ride. The travel time is approximately 3.5 hours.

Stop 1: Corinth Canal

The Corinth Canal is an impressive feat of engineering that connects the Gulf of Corinth with the Saronic Gulf in the Aegean Sea. This narrow yet deep passage separates the Peloponnese from the Greek mainland, making it one of the most remarkable canal constructions in history.

Highlights:

Stop 2: Ancient Olympia

Duration: 4 hours | Admission Ticket: Not Included

After a scenic drive, we arrive at Olympia, the sacred site where the ancient Olympic Games were held in honor of Zeus. This UNESCO World Heritage Site is a vast archaeological treasure where history comes alive.

Highlights:

Walk among the ruins of over 70 historical structures
Visit the Temple of Zeus, home to the once-famous gold and ivory statue of Zeus, one of the Seven Wonders of the Ancient World
Explore the Temple of Hera, where the Olympic flame is still ignited for modern Olympic Games
Experience the ancient Olympic Stadium, where athletes once competed for glory
Discover the Philippeion, a circular monument dedicated to Alexander the Great’s family
Learn about the Nymphaeum, an ornate water distribution structure that supplied water during the Games
Explore the Palaestra, the ancient wrestling school where Greek warriors trained

Stop 3: Archaeological Museums of Olympia

Duration: 2 hours | Admission Ticket: Not Included

The museums of Olympia house an extraordinary collection of artifacts, sculptures, and treasures excavated from the site.

Highlights:

Lunch Break in Olympia

Duration: 1 hour

Enjoy a delicious meal at a traditional Greek tavern, savoring authentic local dishes like souvlaki, moussaka, and fresh Greek salads. The serene atmosphere of Olympia allows you to relax and enjoy the flavors of Greece.

Return Journey via Athens-Patras Road

After a fulfilling exploration of Ancient Olympia, we take the scenic Athens-Patras Road on our way back to Athens. This coastal and mountainous route offers breathtaking views of the Gulf of Corinth, the Rio-Antirrio Bridge, and the rugged landscapes of the northern Peloponnese. Sit back and enjoy a comfortable ride with onboard Wi-Fi and air-conditioning.

Return to Athens

We begin our journey back to Athens in the late afternoon, ensuring a smooth and relaxing ride. The estimated travel time back is 3.5 hours.

Duration: 12 hours roundtrip | Stops: 3 total | Lunch Break: 1 stop

Included in the Price

Private transfer in a premium, air-conditioned vehicle.
Professional local driver for an insightful and comfortable journey.
Pick-up & drop-off at your preferred location.
Tailored itinerary with flexible stops along the way.
Scenic viewpoint stops for stunning photo opportunities when you want.
Free cancellations up to 24 hours before your tour.

Booking Policy

Instant Confirmation – Receive your booking details immediately after reservation.

Cancellation Policy

Up to 24 hours before your tour – Full refund.
Less than 24 hours before your tour – No refund.

Payment & Bank Fees – Any additional bank fees (e.g., currency conversion or transaction fees) are the responsibility of the customer. Refunds are processed for the full amount on our end.

Booking Confirmation & Receipt – You must have your confirmation email with the receipt available during the tour as proof of reservation.

Changes & Amendments

Free amendments up to 24 hours before the tour.
Changes requested less than 24 hours before are subject to availability and may incur extra costs.

Vehicle Requests – We strive to provide your selected vehicle type, but in rare cases, a similar or upgraded vehicle may be provided at no extra charge.

Pick-Up Policy – Please provide the correct pick-up location and time.

Emergency Contact – You must provide a valid phone number that is reachable on the day of your tour for any necessary communication.

No-Show Policy – If the passenger does not show up within the waiting time and has not contacted us, the booking will be considered a no-show, and no refund will be issued.

Multi-Stop & Extended Tours – If you wish to add more stops or extend your tour, please inform us in advance or inquire about our Tailor-Made Exclusive Tour option.