Private Olympia tour (4.5 hours)
Active
4h
For a full refund, cancel at least 24 hours before the scheduled departure time.
Manual confirmation
Mobile or paper ticket accepted
About this experience
Departing from the port with your private vehicle and driver you will travel through the rich countryside to Olympia, where you will embark a guided tour of the archaeological site and museum.
In the archeological site, among several other remains of important buildings, you will see the gymnasium and the palaestra, the round Philipeion, the workshop of Phidias where the gold and ivory statue of Zeus was built, the temples of Zeus and Hera, the altar where the Olympic torch is being lit in the modern days and the ancient Olympic stadium.
In the archeological museum are housed finds things were excavated from the archeological site. Bronze and clay offerings, armor, vases, the tools and cup of Phidias, the gorgeous Hermes by Praxiteles, the Nike by Paeonios and the very impressive classical statues from the pediments of the temple of Zeus etc.
After all that you can have a short break in the modern town of Olympia for coffee or shopping and then you will be returned back to the port.
Available options
Private Olympia tour (4.5 hours)
Pickup included
What's included
Private transportation
Officially licensed English speaking tour guide throughout the tour
Detailed itinerary
1
Stop 1
You will see among other things the gymnasium and the palaestra, the round Phillipion, the workshop of Phidias where the gold and ivory statue of Zeus was built, the temples of Zeus and Hera, the altar where the Olympic torch is being lit in the modern days and the ancient Olympic stadium.
2
Stop 2
You will see among other things bronze and clay offerings (tripods and figurines), armor, vases, the tools and cup from Phidias's workshop, the gorgeous Hermes by Praxiteles, the Nike by Paeonios and the very impressive and very well preserved classical statues from the pediments of the temple of Zeus
What's not included
Food and beverages are not included
Gratuities
Archaeological Site and Museum of Olympia
Available languages
Guide guide
EN
IT
FR
Reviews breakdown
Viator
4.9
9 reviews
5★
8
4★
1
3★
0
2★
0
1★
0
Tripadvisor
4.9
45 reviews
5★
44
4★
0
3★
0
2★
0
1★
1
Important information
Infants and small children can ride in a pram or stroller
Specialized infant seats are available
Travelers should have at least a moderate level of physical fitness
Important notes
You will find us waiting for you at the port of Katakolon with a sign with your name on it
About Olympia
Olympia is an ancient site and modern town in the Peloponnese, Greece, famous as the location of the first Olympic Games in 776 BC. It's a UNESCO World Heritage site with significant archaeological ruins and a rich historical legacy. The modern town offers a blend of ancient history and contemporary Greek culture.
Top Attractions
Ancient Olympia Archaeological Site
The ancient site where the original Olympic Games were held. It includes the Temple of Zeus, the Temple of Hera, the Olympic Stadium, and the ancient gymnasium.
Historical
2-3 hours
€12 (includes access to the Archaeological Museum of Olympia)
Archaeological Museum of Olympia
A museum showcasing artifacts from the ancient site, including the famous statue of Hermes by Praxiteles.
Museum
1-2 hours
Included in the ticket for the archaeological site
Museum of the History of the Olympic Games of Antiquity
A museum dedicated to the history of the ancient Olympic Games, featuring exhibits on the evolution of the games and their cultural significance.
Museum
1 hour
€4
Ancient Olympia Archaeological Site Museum of the History of the Olympic Games of Antiquity
A museum showcasing the history of the ancient Olympic Games, including artifacts, sculptures, and interactive exhibits.
Museum
1 hour
€4
Ancient Olympia Archaeological Site
The ancient site where the original Olympic Games were held. It includes the Temple of Zeus, the Temple of Hera, the Olympic Stadium, and the ancient gymnasium.
Historical
2-3 hours
€12 (includes access to the Archaeological Museum of Olympia)
Ancient Olympia Archaeological Site
The ancient site where the original Olympic Games were held. It includes the Temple of Zeus, the Temple of Hera, the Olympic Stadium, and the ancient gymnasium.
Historical
2-3 hours
€12 (includes access to the Archaeological Museum of Olympia)
Must-Try Local Dishes
Moussaka
A layered dish of eggplant, minced meat, and béchamel sauce, baked to perfection.
Dinner
Contains meat and dairy
Souvlaki
Grilled skewers of marinated meat, typically served with pita bread, vegetables, and tzatziki sauce.
Lunch/Dinner
Contains meat and dairy
Dolmades
Grapes leaves stuffed with a mixture of rice, herbs, and sometimes meat.
Appetizer
Can be vegetarian or with meat
Greek Salad
A fresh salad made with tomatoes, cucumbers, onions, olives, and feta cheese, dressed with olive oil and oregano.
Lunch/Dinner
Vegetarian, contains dairy
Popular Activities
Hiking in the surrounding mountains
Exploring ancient ruins
Sunbathing at Katakolo Beach
Enjoying a meal at a local taverna
Visiting museums and archaeological sites
Attending local festivals
Swimming
Boat tours
Best Time to Visit
May to September
This is the best time to visit Olympia for good weather and outdoor activities. The archaeological site is open year-round, but summer is the peak tourist season.
20°C to 35°C
68°F to 95°F
Practical Information
Language
- Official: Greek
- Widely spoken: English, German, French
- English: Moderately spoken in tourist areas
Currency
Euro (EUR)
Time Zone
GMT+2 (EET)
Electricity
230VV, 50HzHz
Safety Information
Overall Safety Rating: Generally safe
Olympia is generally safe for tourists, with low crime rates. However, as with any tourist destination, it's important to take basic precautions to protect yourself and your belongings.
Important Precautions:
- • Keep valuables secure
- • Use licensed taxis or ride-sharing apps
- • Be cautious of strangers offering unsolicited help or services
Getting there
By air
- Araxos Airport • 50 km (31 miles) from Olympia
- Kalamata International Airport • 80 km (50 miles) from Olympia
By bus
Olympia Bus Station
Getting around
Public transport
Buses are the primary form of public transportation. They are affordable and convenient for getting around the region.
Taxis
Available • Apps: Beat, Taxibeat
Rentals
Car, Bike, Scooter
Neighborhoods
Ancient Olympia
Modern Olympia
Day trips
Katakolo
15 km (9 miles) • Half day
A charming coastal town with a beautiful beach and a small archaeological museum.
Pyrgos
30 km (19 miles) • Half day
A town with a rich history and a variety of cultural attractions, including museums and churches.
Ancient Messene
40 km (25 miles) • Full day
An ancient city with well-preserved ruins, including a theater, stadium, and temples.
Festivals
Olympic Flame Lighting Ceremony • July
Pro tips
- Visit the archaeological site early in the morning to avoid crowds and the heat
- Try local specialties like moussaka, souvlaki, and baklava
- Explore the town of Olympia and its shops, cafes, and restaurants
- Take a day trip to nearby attractions like Katakolo, Pyrgos, or Ancient Messene
- Participate in the Olympic Flame lighting ceremony if visiting in July
From $25
per person
Price varies by option
Secure booking
Free cancellation available
