Olympia Private Tour: Journey of Legends & Marbel Art Experience

Katakolo , Greece

Olympia Private Tour: Journey of Legends & Marbel Art Experience

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About this experience

Start your journey at Ancient Olympia, the birthplace of the Olympic Games. Walk through the archaeological site, where the ancient stadium, temples, and training grounds once hosted the most prestigious athletic event of antiquity. Continue to the Archaeological Museum of Olympia, home to remarkable artifacts.
Next, immerse yourself in the art of marble sculpting with a 45-minute workshop led by the renowned artist Alexandros Papalabros. A graduate of the Tinos Fine Arts College, Papalabros has worked on Greece’s significant archaeological sites, including the Acropolis of Athens and Ancient Olympia, with one of his latest projects being the restoration of King Ptolemy’s column.
During this hands-on session, guests will gain insight into the craftsmanship behind marble carving and its deep roots in Greek heritage.
After the workshop, enjoy free time in the village of Olympia.

Available options

Olympia Private Tour: Journey of Legends & Marbel Art Experience

Pickup included

What's included

Private transportation

Entrance Fees

Licensed Guide

Air-conditioned vehicle

Port pickup and drop-off

45-minute marble sculpting workshop

Detailed itinerary

Olympia was the birthplace of the most famous and important sporting event in the ancient world. The Olympic Games took place here every four years from 776 BC to 393 AD. The site was also a place of worship dedicated to the Greek god Zeus from about the 10th century BC. Here you will find incredible sculptures such as the decoration of the temple of Zeus, as well as the famous Hermes of Praxiteles and the statue of Nike of Paionios.

Stop 2

Olympia's Archaeological Museum is one of the most important museums of Greece. The exhibition contains great masterpieces from the long history of the Olympic Games' birthplace, and thousands of years of art. The exhibits are displayed in chronological and thematic order from Prehistoric down to Roman times.Here you'll find the sculptures of the temple of Zeus, the sculpture of "Nike of Paionios" and one of the most famous statues in the history of art, the "Hermes" of Praxiteles, which is perhaps the only original, surviving statue of the renowned sculptor. Guests are treated with the exhibition's numerous bronze objects: figurines of humans and animals, cauldrons, tripods, griffins, sphinxes, and many different kinds of weapons, vessels, and exquisite examples of the toreutic art. Finally, the large collection of terracotta statues—like the complex of Zeus and Ganymede—is a highlight during any visit.

Explore unique, locally crafted art inspired by Greek culture. Unleash your creativity with a hands-on marble sculpting experience, guided by a skilled artisan.

Walk to Olympia village nearby the archaeological site and the stadium and wander around the little traditional shops, traditional taverns and coffee shops.

What's not included

Food and drinks

Available languages

Guide guide

Important information

Specialized infant seats are available

Infants and small children can ride in a pram or stroller

Travelers should have at least a moderate level of physical fitness

Please note that the total driving time between our planned stops and visits is approximately 2 hours. This ensures a smooth and comfortable travel experience, allowing you to relax and enjoy the scenic route between each captivating destination

Please provide your nationality and the date of birth for each participant. This helps us ensure age-appropriate arrangements and activities during the tour.

When visiting the Olympia site, all participants must have a valid form of ID (photo of the passport, driver’s license, or government-issued ID). Please bring this with you on the tour

Important notes

• Dress code is smart casual
• Comfortable walking shoes are recommended

About Katakolo

Katakolo is a charming coastal town in Western Greece, known for its picturesque harbor, beautiful beaches, and proximity to the ancient site of Olympia. This quaint town offers a mix of history, relaxation, and authentic Greek hospitality, making it a perfect destination for travelers seeking a blend of culture and coastal beauty.

Top Attractions

Katakolo Harbor

The picturesque harbor of Katakolo is the heart of the town. It's a lively area with cafes, restaurants, and shops, offering stunning views of the sea and the surrounding mountains. The harbor is also a popular spot for watching the sunset.

Historical/Scenic 1-2 hours Free

Ancient Olympia

Ancient Olympia, the birthplace of the Olympic Games, is a must-visit for history enthusiasts. The archaeological site includes the ruins of the Temple of Zeus, the ancient stadium, and the Gymnasium. The nearby Archaeological Museum of Olympia houses a rich collection of artifacts.

Historical Half-day to full-day €12 for the archaeological site, €8 for the museum

St. Andrew's Church

St. Andrew's Church is a beautiful Byzantine church located in the town center. It's known for its stunning architecture and historical significance. The church is a peaceful place to visit and offers a glimpse into the religious heritage of the area.

Religious 30 minutes Free

Katakolo Beach

Katakolo Beach is a beautiful sandy beach with clear blue waters. It's a popular spot for swimming, sunbathing, and water sports. The beach is well-maintained and offers facilities like sunbeds, umbrellas, and showers.

Beach Half-day to full-day Free, sunbeds and umbrellas available for rent

Katakolo Lighthouse

The Katakolo Lighthouse is a historic lighthouse located on a small peninsula near the harbor. It offers panoramic views of the town, the harbor, and the surrounding coastline. The lighthouse is a great spot for photography and enjoying the scenic beauty of the area.

Scenic 30 minutes Free

Must-Try Local Dishes

Grilled Octopus

A popular Greek dish made with fresh octopus, grilled to perfection and seasoned with olive oil, lemon, and herbs. It's often served with a side of Greek salad or roasted vegetables.

Dinner Gluten-free, low-carb

Moussaka

A traditional Greek dish made with layers of eggplant, minced meat, and béchamel sauce, baked to perfection. It's a hearty and flavorful dish that's a must-try for any visitor to Greece.

Dinner Contains gluten and dairy

Souvlaki

Grilled skewers of marinated meat, usually pork or chicken, served with pita bread, tzatziki, and vegetables. It's a popular street food in Greece and a quick and delicious meal option.

Lunch/Snack Gluten-free if served without pita bread, contains meat

Baklava

A sweet dessert made with layers of filo pastry, nuts, and honey syrup. It's a popular treat in Greece and the perfect way to end a meal.

Dessert Contains gluten, nuts, and honey

Popular Activities

Hiking in nearby mountains Water sports at Katakolo Beach Boat tours to nearby islands Sunbathing and swimming at Katakolo Beach Enjoying a leisurely meal at a waterfront restaurant Strolling along the harbor Visiting Ancient Olympia Exploring the Museum of School Life and Technology in Pyrgos

Best Time to Visit

June to August

The peak season offers warm weather, sunny days, and vibrant tourist activities. The town is bustling with visitors, and the beaches are at their best. However, it can be crowded, and prices for accommodation and dining may be higher.

25-35°C 77-95°F

Practical Information

Language

Official: Greek
Widely spoken: English, German, French
English: Moderately spoken, especially in tourist areas

Currency

Euro (EUR)

Time Zone

GMT+2 (EET)

Electricity

230VV, 50HzHz

Safety Information

Overall Safety Rating: Generally safe

Katakolo is a generally safe destination for travelers, with low crime rates and a welcoming atmosphere. However, as with any destination, it's important to take basic safety precautions and be aware of your surroundings.

Important Precautions:

• Keep valuables secure and out of sight
• Be cautious of strangers approaching you with petitions or distractions
• Use licensed taxis or agree on a price before starting your journey

Getting there

By air

Zakynthos International Airport • 70 km
Araxos Airport • 50 km

By train

Katakolo Station

By bus

Katakolo Bus Terminal

Getting around

Public transport

The local bus service is affordable and convenient for getting around Katakolo. Buses are frequent and connect the town center with the harbor and nearby beaches.

Taxis

Available • Apps: No specific apps, taxis can be hailed on the street or found at designated stands

Rentals

Car, Bike, Scooter

Neighborhoods

Town Center Harbor Area Beach Area

Day trips

Ancient Olympia

10 km • Half-day to full-day

Ancient Olympia is the birthplace of the Olympic Games and a UNESCO World Heritage Site. The archaeological site includes the ruins of the Temple of Zeus, the ancient stadium, and the Gymnasium. The nearby Archaeological Museum of Olympia houses a rich collection of artifacts.

Zakynthos Island

50 km by ferry • Full-day

Zakynthos is a beautiful island known for its stunning beaches, crystal-clear waters, and the famous Navagio Beach (Shipwreck Beach). The island offers a mix of relaxation, water sports, and exploration.

Pyrgos

20 km • Half-day

Pyrgos is a charming town known for its traditional architecture, local shops, and the Museum of School Life and Technology. The town offers a glimpse into the local culture and history of the region.

Festivals

Katakolo Festival • August Ancient Olympia Festival • June to August

Pro tips

Visit Ancient Olympia early in the morning to avoid crowds and heat
Try local seafood at the waterfront restaurants in the harbor area
Take a boat tour to nearby islands like Zakynthos or Kefalonia
Explore the town on foot to discover hidden gems and local shops
Learn a few basic Greek phrases to enhance your experience and connect with locals