Olympia, Greece

Tours

Enjoy this convenient transfer from your cruise ship terminal at Katakolo Port, and head to the famous Ancient Olympia. Travel by air-conditioned vehicle and enjoy a VR Audio Tour where you can relive the past. Disembark from your cruise ship and find the local partner at the exit cruise terminal. Hop into an air-conditioned bus and start driving 30-minutes through the idyllic country side to Ancient Olympia. Reach Olympia, the birthplace of the Olympic games. Relive the past with a Virtual Reality application and listen to the fascinating audioguide in 10 languages. Admire the wonder and thrill of the original Olympic Games, which were held from 776 BC. to 393 AD. Enter the famous archaeological site of Olympia and marvel at the Temple of Hera, in front of which burns the Olympic Flame during modern day Olympic Games. See the Temple of Zeus, which once housed the Golden and Ivory statue of Zeus (one of the Seven Wonders of the Ancient World) and the original Stadium and Bouleuterion, monuments unlike any other, where once competitors swore an oath to conform to the rules. Choose between 2 options with entry tickets included or without. Near the Archaeological site is the modern village of Olympia that you can easily reach for shopping, souvenirs, or a quick lunch, coffee, and snacks. After a day full of history and culture you will return to the Katakolo village and port. Enter your cruise or spend some time at the picturesque village by the sea.

Explore the Archeological Site of Olympia on your own with a roundtrip transfer from the Katakolo Cruise port. Drive through the scenic mainland of western Peloponnese and explore the birthplace of the Olympic Games. Return to the port, just in time for your cruise departure. Meet your guide outside of the cruise terminal and board an air-conditioned bus to Ancient Olympia. Buy your admission ticket upon arrival and enter the archeological site. Learn of the origin of the Olympic Games in classical times, held from 776 BC until 393 AD. Marvel at the Temple of Hera and the Olympic flame that burns outside during the modern-day games. See the Temple of Zeus that once housed one of the Seven Wonders of the Ancient World, the Golden and Ivory statue of Zeus. Witness where competitors once swore an oath to honor the rules at the Stadium and Bouleuterion. Feel free to explore at your own pace and choose to visit the modern Village of Olympia for shopping or a traditional meal. Take a moment to swim at the nearby beach before returning to your awaiting cruise ship.

1st DAY: 08:30 Starting from Athens we drive westwards along the scenic coast, until we reach the CORINTH CANAL with its breathtaking views (Short Stop). Then continue to MYCENAE(Visit) “Mycenae 'Rich in Gold', the kingdom of mythical Agamemnon, first sung by Homer in his epics. Free time for lunch (on own expence) Then depart to EPIDAURUS (Visit). On the headland called "Nesi" at Palaia Epidaurus, the theatre of the ancient city is quite well-preserved, in the shape it acquired during the latter years of its function. Apart from a few rows of seats, the cavea is made of limestone with poros staircases. The theater is marveled for its exceptional acoustics. Drive to NAUPLIA 1st capital of Greece in 1829 ( Stop) In the afternoon check in at your hotel – Dinner & Overnight. 2nd DAY: After your breakfast departure for Olympia the most celebrated sanctuary of ancient Greece. Olympia became the most important religious and athletic centre in Greece. Its fame rests upon the Olympic Games, the greatest national festival and a highly prestigious one world-wide, which was held every four years to honor Zeus. Visit the Archaeological Site & the Museum and then drive via PATRAS to RION, across the channel to ANTIRRION on the “State of the Art” new suspended bridge considered to be the longest and most modern in Europe. Arrive in NAFPAKTOS (drive through) then continue to DELPHI – Dinner & Overnight. 3rd DAY: Situated at the foot of Mount Parnassos, within the angle formed by the twin rocks of the Phaedriades, lies the Pan-Hellenic sanctuary of Delphi, which had the most famous oracle of ancient Greece. Delphi was regarded as the centre of the world. The sanctuary of Delphi was for many centuries the cultural and religious centre and symbol of unity for the Hellenic world. Visit of the archaeological site and the Museum where one can see among other archeological treasures, the unique bronze statue of the Charioteer dedicated to Apollo by Polyzalos, the tyrant of Gela, in 478 B.C. when he won the chariot-race at the Pythian Games. After visits depart for KALAMBAKA. Dinner & Overnight. 4th DAY: Today we will see one of the most amazing places in Greece - METEORA Meaning ‘suspended in air’ the name Meteora soon came to encompass the entire rock community of 24 monasteries, the biggest and most important group of monasteries in Greece Monks descended in the nets or on retractable wooden ladders up to 40m long to the fertile valleys below to grow grapes, corn and potatoes. Each community developed its own resources and by the end of the 14th century, the Grand Meteoron emerged as the dominant community. The rock monasteries have been characterized by UNESCO as a unique phenomenon of cultural heritage. After visits start the drive back to ATHENS passing through THERMOPYLAE (Photo Stop). Return back to Athens approx 19:00

Step into the footsteps of ancient athletes and gods on our tour to Ancient Olympia. Explore the historic site where the Olympic Games were born and where legends were made. Wander through the remnants of grand temples, athletic arenas, and sacred spaces that once hosted the world's most prestigious athletic event. As you stroll through the archaeological wonders, our expert guides will transport you back in time, regaling you with stories of athletic prowess, mythological tales, and the significance of this hallowed ground. Marvel at the Temple of Zeus, where the iconic Statue of Zeus once stood, and stand on the ancient starting line of the original Olympic track. Immerse yourself in the rich history and culture of the region at the Archaeological Museum of Ancient Olympia, where a treasure trove of artifacts and sculptures awaits. Feel the energy of the past as you soak in the history and culture that shaped our world.

Take a step back from the present day and delve into the wonders of ancient Greece over the course of 4 unforgettable days. Jump aboard the luxury bus, sit back and enjoy a zero carbon journey through the archeological sanctuaries of Epidaurus, Mycenae, Nafplio, Olympia, Delphi and Meteora. With stunning scenery along the way, incredible architecture and a place to rest your head at night, this tour has everything you could want and more. Day 1: Visit Epdiaurus, Nafpila and Mycenae The Day starts with a drive along the Corinth Canal to Epidaurus, the reputed birthplace of Apollo's son Asclepius, and a visit to the ancient theatre, renowned for its symmetry and exceptional acoustics. From here you will proceed on to the seaport town Nafplio for a short stop then on through the plain of Argos arriving at Mycenae. This archeological site was once a major centre to Greek civilisation and is home to the Tomb of Agamemnon. In the afternoon you will depart for Olympia, where you will spend the night. Day 2: Discover Olympia and Delphi There is much to be explored at the home of the Olympic Games. Stride among the gods at the temples of Hera and Zeus, cower at the alter of the Olympic Flame, where the sacrifices were made, and buff up on your history at the site's museum. The journey will continue on via Patras to Rio, across the state-of-the-art Rio-Antirrio bridge, past the city of Nafpaktos and along the beautiful coastal road to Delphi. Thought of by the Greeks as the middle of the entire earth, Delphi came to be known as the navel of the world. In the afternoon you will take a trip to the picturesque mountain village of Arachova then back to Delphi for an overnight stay. Day 3: Explore Delphi and Ovenight stay in Kalambaka Spend a relaxed and possibly spiritual morning in Delphi taking in the atmosphere of this centre of Greek worship, the place where heaven and earth meet. In the afternoon you will depart for Kalambaka. Overlooked by the Meteora Monasteries, this will be your resting place for the night. Day 4: The Meteora Monasteries and return to Athens Travel the heights to Meteora, where you can visit the most important complex of Eastern Orthodox monasteries in Greece. Built high on 6 sandstone pillars overlooking Kalambaka, you will experience breathtaking views carved by the elements of nature. Your return trip will offer an optional trip to a factory of Byzantine style icons, then continue past the monument of Leonidas (King of Sparta), and finishing up your monumental tour back in Athens in the late afternoon.

Start your tour with a visit to the Corinth Canal, a site of utmost historical significance. Enjoy a brief 15 minute stop here and take plenty of pictures whilst you have a refreshing beverage. Next, continue your travels to Ancient Olympia, where you will get to stop and discover with your driver for around 5 hours.  During your time here, you will get to visit some of ancient Greece's most iconic landmarks, such as the Archaeological Site of Olympia, the Philippeion, the Archaeological Museum of Olympia, the Museum of the Olympic Games and the Archimedes Museum. Whilst in the city of Olympia, your driver will be able to suggest a delicious, traditional Greek tavern for you to stop and have lunch.

Begin your journey from the Port of Katakolo to the awe-inspiring archaeological site of Ancient Olympia, where history and myth converge. Walk in the footsteps of ancient athletes and philosophers as you visit the Temple of Zeus, where the renowned Statue of Zeus once stood. Marvel at the ancient stadium, where athletic competitions flourished over two millennia ago. Gain insights into the origins of the Olympic Games, the symbolism of the sacred flame, and the enduring stories of gods and heroes that have shaped Greek culture. After your historical exploration, transition to tranquility and relaxation at Kourouta Beach. Enjoy the golden sands and the azure waters of the beach nestled along the Ionian Sea. Dive into the sea or bask in the Mediterranean sun, immersing yourself in the beauty of this coastal paradise.

Connect with the ancient world of Olympia on this self guided Virtual Reality Tour & audioguide in 9 languages. Olympia, a sanctuary of ancient Greece in Elis on the Peloponnese peninsula, is known for hosting the Olympic Games in classical times. Join us in reliving the wonder and thrill of the original Olympic Games, which were held from 776 BC. to 393 AD. Enter the famous archaeological site of Olympia and marvel at the Temple of Hera, infront of which burns the Olympic Flame during modern day Olympic Games.See the Temple of Zeus, which once housed the Golden and Ivory statue of Zeus (one of the Seven Wonders of the Ancient World) and the original Stadium and Bouleuterion, Visit the Archaeological Museum to complete your immersive experience. Choose your preferred time for the tickets of the Archaelogical Museum of Olympia and in the Archaelogical Site enjoy unlimited time.

This exciting 3-day and environmentally responsible tour takes you to the most important archaeological sites of classical Greece. Providing a superb introduction to some of the myths of the ancient world, you will visit the tomb of Agamemnon in Mycenae, the Temple of Apollo and Oracle at Delphi, and the altar of the Olympic flame at Olympia. You will also make short stops in the cities of Tripolis and Megalopolis, drive past the mighty Corinth Canal, and see the charming harbor town of Nafpaktos. Day 1: Epidaurus – Nayplia - Mycenae Following your departure from Athens, visit the Corinth Canal on the Saronic Gulf and admire the miraculous 19th-century feat of engineering. Continue to Epidaurus to tour the ancient theater, world famous for its outstanding acoustics. Proceed to Nafplia, former capital of the First Hellenic Republic, and drive through the plain of Argos. Upon arrival in Mycenae, visit the ruins of the citadel and the Tomb of Agamemnon. Continue to Olympia for your overnight stay, traveling via the cities of Tripolis and Megalopolis, where you can take short stops to stretch your legs or purchase souvenir items. Day 2: Olympia - Delphi Visit the archaeological remains of Olympia, site of the Olympic Games in classical times and sacred ground to the Ancient Greeks. Admire the Doric columns of the Temples of Zeus and Hera, see the remains of the Stadium, and go to the altar of the Olympic flame. Explore the Archaeological Museum of Olympia, located directly opposite the ruins and filled with excavated artifacts. Depart Olympia for Rion, and cross the Corinthian Bay via the new bridge to Antirion. Sit back and enjoy the ride along the coastal road to Delphi, passing the charming small harbor city of Nafpaktos. In the afternoon visit the picturesque mountain village of Arachova on the slopes of the Parnassus Mountains, before your overnight stay in Delphi. Day 3: Delphi - Athens Today, experience the mysterious atmosphere of Delphi up close, with a tour of the archaeological site perched high on the Parnassus Mountains. Once regarded as the center of the world, Delphi was connected to the worship of Gaia, or Mother Earth, and guarded by a Python dragon that was killed by Apollo. Visit the temple dedicated to Apollo and learn about the great Oracle of Delphi. Continue to the theater, where up to 5,000 spectators would watch plays, poetry readings, and festivals. Enjoy superb views of the Parnassus Mountains and valley from the top of the hill and explore an impressive collection of artefacts and relics associated with ancient Delphi at the Archaeological Museum. In the afternoon, make your way back to Athens, driving through the vine and olive tree-studded hills of Parnassus and the Valley of Phocis.

Day 1: Leave by the coastal road to the Corinth Canal (short stop). Drive on and visit the Theatre of Epidaurus, famous for its remarkable acoustics. Then, proceed to the town of Nafplio (short photo stop), drive on to Mycenae and visit the archaeological site and the Tomb of Agamemnon. Then, depart for Olympia through central Peloponnese and the towns of Tripolis and Megalopolis. Overnight in Olympia, the cradle of the Olympic Games (dinner) Day 2: In the morning, visit the archaeological site with the Sanctuary of Olympian Zeus, the ancient stadium, the spot where the torch of the modern Olympic Games is lit and the Archaeological Museum. Then, drive on through the plains of Ilia and Achaia until the magnificent bridge that crosses the Corinthian Bay from Rion to Antirion. Pass by the picturesque towns of Nafpactos (Lepanto) and Itea. Arrive in Delphi (dinner and overnight) Day 3: In the morning, visit the archaeological site and the Museum of Delphi, the most famous oracle of the ancient world. Depart for Kalambaka, a small town located at the foot of the astonishing complex of Meteora, surrounded by gigantic rocks (dinner and overnight) Day 4: Visit Meteora, a striking scenery perched on top of huge rocks which seem to be suspended in mid-air, stand ageless monasteries, where you can see exquisite specimens of Byzantine art. Return to Athens via Trikala, Lamia, Thermopylae (short stop to see across the road to Leonida's Monument). Arrive in Athens early in the evening.