Olympia is a must-see when exploring Greece’s Peloponnese, especially if you’re interested in ancient history, Olympic heritage, or just want a taste of local wine, honey, and beaches. What makes Olympia stand out is its rich archaeological remains and its lively modern town filled with shops, cafes, and scenic spots. These experiences offer more than just sightseeing—they provide authentic ways to connect with Greece’s culture and history. For example, the 4-hour Katakolon shore excursion combines a visit to the Olympia ruins with a stop at a winery and beach, giving you a well-rounded taste of the region in just a few hours. We also appreciate the 7-hour private tour, which offers a flexible, in-depth day exploring Olympia’s temples, museum, and local farms—perfect for those wanting a personalized experience. Take a look at all the options below to find your ideal adventure.
Quick Overview
The tours in Olympia cover a wide range of interests—archaeological exploration, private sightseeing, culinary experiences, and beach days. Whether you want a quick taste of the ruins with included stops like a honey farm (Klio’s Honey Farm) or a full-day private tour (Olympia – Full day Tour with mini bus), each offers distinctive ways to enjoy Greece’s Olympic birthplace. Now, let’s get into the details.
1. 4 hour Katakolon shore excursion (Olympia – Winery – Beach)
At number 1, this 4-hour shore excursion delivers an efficient yet comprehensive taste of Olympia. It’s perfect for cruise travelers with limited time but still wanting a memorable experience. The trip includes port pickup and drop-off, so you won’t waste precious time navigating transport. You’ll explore the Olympia archaeological site and museum, marvel at the Hermes Praxiteles sculpture, and stroll the ancient stadium and Zeus’ temple, all on your own with a guidebook or optional licensed guide for an additional fee. The tour also features a visit to a local winery, where you can sample regional wines, and a relaxing stop at St. Andrew Beach for a quick swim or stroll along the coast.
Reviews highlight the convenience and stress-free nature of this trip, with travelers praising the knowledgeable guides and well-organized itinerary—“Highly recommend this excursion!” says one reviewer. It’s ideal for travelers seeking a fast-paced, no-hassle introduction to Olympia’s highlights. The $337.23 price for up to four people makes it competitive for such a tight schedule.
Bottom Line: Perfect for cruise passengers wanting a reliable, organized, and varied experience that hits the major highlights and offers time for a beach break.
2. Katakolon 7hour tour : Olympia-Honey Farm-Winery-Beach
Number 2 on our list is a 7-hour private experience tailored for groups of up to 15, offering a more relaxed and personalized day. This tour starts with a visit to the UNESCO-listed Olympia archaeological site, where you can explore the temple of Zeus and the ancient stadium. You’ll also visit the Archaeological Museum of Olympia, known for its statues of Hermes and other priceless artifacts. What sets this tour apart is the inclusion of a honey farm and a winery, giving you authentic tastes of local products—honey, wine, and olive oil—from family-owned farms. Afterward, a stop at Klio’s Honey Farm allows for sampling and buying local honey, while the beach visit offers a chance to unwind.
The reviews are glowing: “Dora made this tour very special for us,” one traveler shares, emphasizing the personal touch. The tour’s flexibility, combined with comfortable transportation and expert guides, makes it suitable for families, couples, or friends who want a deeper dive into Olympia’s culture with regional tastings. The $673.42 price may seem steep, but it includes private transportation and personalized experiences.
Bottom Line: Best suited for those wanting a fully tailored day, combining history, local food, and beach time without rushing.
3. Olympia – Full day Tour with mini bus
Coming in at number 3 is a full-day private tour that really maximizes your time in Olympia. For around $633.82, your group of up to 15 will enjoy a comprehensive day, starting with a transfer from Katakolon in a spacious vehicle. The itinerary includes exploring the archaeological site and museum on your own, with plenty of free time to soak in the sights. You’ll also visit a local honey farm and winery, and even have an opportunity to swim at Skafidia Beach, adding a relaxing element.
This tour is highly flexible—you can explore at your own pace with the guidance of a knowledgeable driver and optional guide, if desired. It’s perfect for travelers who want a more in-depth experience without the restrictions of a fixed schedule. The reviews praise the comfort of the vehicle, local guides’ insight, and the ability to see multiple sites in one day.
Bottom Line: Ideal for families or groups that want an all-encompassing, flexible experience with a private touch.
4. Olympia shore Excursion – 4 hour tour (Olympia, Olive press, Beach)
Number 4 features a compact 4-hour tour designed for cruise passengers. For just $334.19 for up to 4 people, this experience includes a visit to Olympia, the Archaeological Museum, and the Olympia site—all explored on your own with a guidebook. After soaking in the history of Zeus’ temple and the original Olympic stadium, you’ll visit an olive press to learn about the olive oil production process, then finish with some time at Saint Andrew’s Beach for a quick swim.
This tour is perfect if you want a short, efficient experience without sacrificing the key sights. The reviews mention how well it suits cruise schedules: “Our guide, Charis, was absolutely great,” one traveler notes, highlighting the personalized service. The price point and duration make it a popular choice for those with tight schedules but a desire for a meaningful glimpse into Olympia’s past and present.
Bottom Line: Great for cruise travelers seeking a focused, well-organized visit with added local flavor and a beach break.
5. Katakolon Shore Excursion: Private Tour of Ancient Olympia and Archeological Site
Number 5 offers a private, half-day tour for those who want a customized, intimate experience. For $572.26 per person, you’ll be picked up directly from your ship and guided through the Olympia archaeological site and museum, with a focus on highlighting its most famous monuments like Zeus’ temple and the original stadium. You can explore at your own pace, receiving personalized attention from your guide. Afterward, enjoy some free time in modern Olympia for shopping or relaxing.
Travelers love the personalized itinerary—one reviewer says, “Our guide was very knowledgeable and interesting,” which makes a big difference when exploring ruins. This tour is ideal for those wanting an in-depth, flexible experience that suits specific interests or time constraints. The $572.26 per person price reflects the exclusivity and personalized service.
Bottom Line: Perfect for travelers who prefer a private, customizable tour that covers the highlights with a personal touch.
6. Katakolon Shore Excursion: Private Tour of Ancient Olympia, Archeological Site and Archeological Museum
Number 6 on our list is a comprehensive private tour lasting roughly 4.5 hours. For $585.14 per person, your guide will take you through the Olympia ruins, including Zeus’ Temple, and the archaeological museum to see statues like Hermes by Praxiteles. You’ll also enjoy free time in Olympia to browse shops, get snacks, or relax.
This tour’s strength lies in its combination of archaeological exploration and leisure time in the modern town. Reviewers emphasize the expert guides and well-organized itinerary, with one noting, “We learned so much and enjoyed the personalized experience.” It’s ideal for travelers wanting a deep dive into Olympia’s history but with some flexibility to explore on their own.
Bottom Line: Suitable for those who want an all-in-one private experience, blending archaeological discovery with free time.
How to Choose Your Olympia Tour
Picking the right tour depends on your budget, timing, and interests. If you’re on a cruise with limited hours, the 4-hour Katakolon shore excursion offers a solid overview (see more). For a longer, more personalized day, the 7-hour private tour (see more) includes tastings and farm visits. If you prefer complete flexibility, the full-day mini bus experience (see more) lets you explore at your pace.
For travelers seeking a quick, efficient visit, the 4-hour Olympia, Olive press, Beach tour (see more) is ideal. Those who want a private, tailored experience should consider the half-day private tours (see more), which emphasize personalized attention.
Consider your interest in local food and crafts—many tours include visits to honey farms, wineries, and olive oil producers—plus your time constraints and physical comfort. Booking early is wise, especially in peak months, to secure your preferred time and guide.
Final Thoughts
Olympia offers a variety of tours and experiences suited for different interests and schedules. If you want a quick yet enriching glimpse, the 4-hour shore excursion is excellent. For those craving a more in-depth, private day, the 7-hour or full-day tours stand out. For travelers who prefer a focused, efficient visit, the short shore excursions deliver the essentials without overloading your day.
No matter which tour you choose, Olympia’s blend of ancient ruins, lively towns, and scenic beaches makes for a memorable day in Greece. To get the most out of your visit, consider your priorities—history, food, relaxation—and book early to ensure availability.