Olympia
About Olympia
Ancient Olympia was the most celebrated sanctuary of ancient Greece, dedicated to Zeus, the father of gods and men. It was the site of the Olympic Games, held as part of the Olympian festival, the most important celebration for the Greeks throughout much of antiquity. Other major festivals included the Pythian Games in honor of Apollo at Delphi, the Isthmian Games dedicated to Poseidon at the Isthmus of Corinth, and the Nemean Games, also in honor of Zeus at his sanctuary in Nemea.
In Olympia, inside the magnificent temple of the god, stood the chryselephantine statue of Zeus, crafted by Phidias, which was renowned in antiquity as one of the Seven Wonders of the World. The first recorded Olympic Games date back to 776 B.C. and were held every four years. During the Hellenistic period, several buildings were constructed, mainly of a secular nature, such as the gymnasium and the palaestra, while in Roman times, modifications were made to the existing structures.
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Attractions In Olympia
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Museum of the History of the Ancient Olympic Games
4.9Travel to the birthplace of the Olympic Games in the comfort of an executive car or minivan, on a private day trip to ancient Olympia and Corinth Canal. Admire the engineering of the Canal, and then trace the victories of ancient Greece’s greatest athletes at gymnasium and track ruins plus the site’s archeological museum. After this iconic tour, we will suggest a nice place for a wonderful lunch and a great local wine. - Get an up-close look at the Corinth Canal - Explore the Peloponnese on your own pace - Learn the roots of the Olympic Games in ancient Olympia - Visit the Iconic Sanctuary of Olympian Zeus - Private English speaking driver sharing history facts and insights - Stop for a great lunch and local wine
Ancient Olympia
4.7Embark on a captivating shore excursion from the cruise port and uncover the wonders of Ancient Olympia—where history, architecture, and culture come vividly to life. Begin your journey at the legendary archaeological site, the birthplace of the Olympic Games, then continue to the renowned Archaeological Museum, home to priceless artifacts and timeless masterpieces. After your guided tour, enjoy free time to wander the charming town, browse local shops for handmade crafts, or savor traditional Greek delicacies—the perfect way to round out this memorable experience. With a carefully planned itinerary, a flexible 24-hour cancellation policy, and a guaranteed on-time return to your ship, you can relax and enjoy every moment without a single worry. Join us for an unforgettable day in Olympia—where ancient glory meets modern comfort.
Archaeological Museum of Olympia
4.7In Ancient Olympia, the highlights to visit are the Archeological Museum also called the New Museum and the Archeological site. Choosing to have a guided tour with an officially licensed tour guide will enhance your experience and provide an in depth presentation. On this 2 and a half hour guided tour we visit the temple of Zeus, the temple of Hera, the spot of the lighting of the Olympic torch and the stadium, among other sites.
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What To Do In Olympia
Tours, activities and experiences you can book online
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Ancient Olympia (birth place of Olympic Games) & Corinth Canal, Private Day Tour
5.0A great suggestion for a private day tour so as to visit some of the most interesting and impressive places in Peloponnese. Our first stop will be at the Corinth Canal and its “Isthmus” (neck in Ancient Greek). A 6km marvel of ancient and modernengineering, the Canal connects the Aegean and the Ionian Sea. After our short stop there, we continue to visit Tripoli, where we can stop for coffee, and then reach famous Ancient Olympia. Birthplace of the Olympic Games, a religious and sports center, Ancient Olympia will take your breath away. Feel the energy of this historical site and let yourself be transported back in time. See the Temples of Hera, of Zeus, the Ancient Stadium, the Palaestra and the workshop of famed sculptor Pheidias, creator of the chryselephantine statue of Zeus, one of the Seven Wonders of the ancient world. In the Museum of Olympia you will see such masterpieces as the Hermes of Praxitelis, Nike of Paionios, a variety of artifacts, the drinking cup of Pheidias!
Argolis Olympia Delphi & Meteora 4-Day Tour
5.0Embark on a 4-day journey, visiting some of the country's most iconic historical sites and stunning landscapes. From the sites of major historical importance in Argolis, the birthplace of the ancient Olympic Games at Olympia, the mystical Oracle of Apollo at Delphi, and the awe-inspiring suspended in the air Meteora monasteries, each destination offers a unique glimpse of Greek heritage and culture. Why Hellenic Private Tours? Flexible tours and services tailored to your needs. Professional, certified drivers fluent in English. Well maintained, latest model Mercedes vehicles (sedans, minivans & minibuses), licensed andcertified for tourist use by the state authorities. Exceptional client feedback from around the world. Dedicated customer service team available for prompt assistance. Extensive network of licensed, experienced tour guides available upon request.
Private Guided Tour of the Archaeological Site and Museum of Olympia
5.0The guided tour to the archaeological site of Ancient Olympia and its museum is an exciting journey into the heart of the history and origins of the Olympic Games. Walking through the ruins, you can breathe the sacred atmosphere of a place where humanity has celebrated the cult of competition and excellence. Every stone, every temple, tells stories of athletes who have challenged their limits in the name of honor and glory. The price does not include entrance tickets: Full ticket: EUR 20 free admission for children and young people up to 25 years
BEST 3-Day CLASSICAL GREECE: Corinth Epidaurus Olympia Delphi
5.0Our Private tour Journeys to some of the most impressive remains of Ancient, Classical & Byzantine Greece including 5 UNESCO world heritage sites, spanning over five thousand years in the development of one of the world's great civilizations. From the first healing center at Epidaurus to the tombs of Mycenae, to breathtaking Olympia and the center of the ancient world at Delphi, as well as the impressive Corinth Canal, Ancient Corinth, and Medieval Nafplio. No less impressive is the natural beauty of the accompanying locations as you sit back & relax along the way in full leather comfort in one of our new Mercedes E-Class Sedans or Luxury Class Minivans with WiFi and chilled bottled water. In addition to our basic High Standard (Gold Package), choose the hassle-free option to add a 3-course Traditional Greek Lunch in one of the best local restaurants (Platinum Package), or further tailor your tour to include an Expert Archaeological Guide at one or more of the sites (on request).
Olympic Site Skip-The-Lines Private Tour with a Local Expert
5.0Explore ancient Olympia like never before! Come along on a trip back in time to the myths and legends of the site that gave birth the Olympics with a local expert and field archeologist. Visit the highlights of the Olympic site, the playground of the Gods and heroes of Greek mythology. See where the Olympic flame is lit for each Olympiad and don't hesitate to run the Olympic track!
Olympia Highlights and Kourouta Beach Getaway
5.0Embark on an exclusive journey blending history and relaxation. Our private tour offers an intimate exploration of Olympia's rich past at the Archaeological Museum and the ancient Olympic site. Wander through the birthplace of the Olympic Games, marveling at well-preserved artifacts and ancient ruins that tell stories of a glorious era. After immersing yourself in history, unwind at the serene Kourouta Beach, renowned for its golden sands and crystal-clear waters. Enjoy personalized attention and experience local culture and scenic beauty like never before. This unique combination of historical depth and beachside relaxation, tailored exclusively for you, sets this tour apart from any other.
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