Ancient Olympia (Full Day)

Nestled in the heart of Greece, Ancient Olympia beckons visitors to uncover its captivating history. As the birthplace of the Olympic Games, this hallowed site promises an immersive journey through the grandeur of ancient Greek civilization. From the awe-inspiring ruins of the Temple of Zeus to the legendary Olympic Stadium, each step on this full-day adventure reveals the enduring legacy of this remarkable UNESCO World Heritage Site. Prepare to be transported back in time as you explore the very foundations that gave rise to one of the world’s most celebrated sporting traditions.

Key Points

• Explore the birthplace of the ancient Olympic Games, including the ruins of the Temple of Hera, Temple of Zeus, gymnasium, and stadium.
• Gain insights into ancient Greek religious practices and the historical significance of the Olympic Games through the archaeological site.
• Opportunity to stand on the Corinth Canal, an iconic feat of human engineering that connects the Saronic and Corinthian Gulfs.
• Private day trip from Athens with a comfortable, air-conditioned vehicle and an English-speaking driver who provides information about the sites.
• Trip duration ranges from 11 to 14 hours, with a departure time between 6:30 am and 7:30 am, allowing ample time for exploration.

Overview of the Day Trip

This private day trip from Athens to ancient Olympia and the Corinth Canal provides an immersive experience exploring the birthplace of the Olympic Games.

Traveling in a comfortable, air-conditioned vehicle, visitors have 11 to 14 hours to discover the historic sites.

The tour begins with a visit to the iconic Corinth Canal, followed by an in-depth exploration of Olympia, including the athletes’ training areas, temples, and the ancient stadium.

With a departure time between 6:30 am and 7:30 am, this comprehensive tour offers a unique opportunity to explore Greece’s rich history and cultural heritage.

Exploring the Corinth Canal

The tour begins with a visit to the iconic Corinth Canal, a feat of human engineering that slices through the Isthmus of Corinth, connecting the Saronic and Corinthian Gulfs.

Completed in 1893, the canal spans 4 miles and is an impressive 280 feet deep. Travelers have the opportunity to stand on the bridge overlooking the dramatic cliffs and admire the striking blue waters below.

This engineering marvel, which allows ships to bypass the lengthy journey around the Peloponnese peninsula, is a testament to the ingenuity of its designers and the determination of its builders.

Discovering the Birthplace of the Olympics

What better place to explore the birthplace of the Olympics than the ancient site of Olympia?

Wander through the ruins of the temples of Hera and Zeus, the gymnasium, and the iconic stadium where ancient Greek athletes competed.

Imagine the roar of the crowd as you stand on the field where the Olympic torch is still lit today.

Discover the training areas where competitors honed their skills centuries ago.

This is the hallowed ground that gave rise to the world’s greatest athletic event – a must-see for any visitor to Greece.

Visiting the Temples of Hera and Zeus

As visitors explore the ancient site of Olympia, they’ll be drawn to the impressive ruins of the temples of Hera and Zeus.

The Temple of Hera, dating back to the 6th century BC, is one of the oldest and most significant structures on the grounds.

Meanwhile, the massive Temple of Zeus, constructed in the 5th century BC, was once home to one of the Seven Wonders of the Ancient World – the towering statue of Zeus.

Key features of these temples include:

• Ornate columns and architectural details

• Remnants of intricate sculptures and friezes

• Insights into ancient Greek religious practices

• Iconic status as centerpieces of the Olympic Games

Experiencing the Ancient Gymnasium

Nestled within the ancient site of Olympia, the well-preserved remains of the gymnasium offer visitors a glimpse into the training regimen of the Olympic athletes.

This vast complex housed various facilities, including running tracks, wrestling rings, and rooms for bathing and medical treatments. Athletes would have honed their skills here, preparing for the grueling competitions held in the nearby stadium.

Wandering through the ruins, one can almost feel the determination and camaraderie that must have permeated the space. The gymnasium stands as a testament to the dedication and discipline of ancient Olympians.

Walking the Legendary Olympic Stadium

After exploring the ancient gymnasium, visitors can now venture to the centerpiece of the Olympian complex – the legendary Olympic stadium.

This vast, open-air venue once hosted the ancient Olympic Games, where athletes competed in a variety of events, from foot races to wrestling.

Visitors can walk the same path that ancient competitors took, imagining the roar of the crowd as they stepped onto the field of play.

The stadium’s evocative ruins still convey a sense of the grandeur and significance of the original Games, inviting visitors to enjoy the history and legacy of Olympia.

• Visitors can walk the same track as ancient Olympians

• The stadium’s ruins evoke the grandeur of the original Games

• Imagine the roar of the crowd as athletes competed

• Explore the centerpiece of the Olympian complex

Transportation Arrangements

The day trip to ancient Olympia and the Corinth Canal departs from central Athens or the Piraeus cruise terminal, with hotel or airport pickup included.

Private transport is available for 1 to 4 passengers in a taxi/sedan or up to 7 in a minivan. The air-conditioned vehicle provides onboard Wi-Fi, fuel surcharge, and tolls.

The English-speaking driver offers information and tips but doesn’t enter the sites. Admission fees and a professional guide at Olympia are available for an additional cost.

Children under 18 must be accompanied by an adult, and service animals are allowed.

Important Considerations

One important consideration for this ancient Olympia tour is the duration, which ranges from 11 to 14 hours depending on the departure time selected.

Travelers should be prepared for a long day of exploration. Other key considerations include:

• The tour isn’t wheelchair accessible, though it’s stroller accessible.

• Service animals are allowed, and infant seats are available upon request.

• Free cancellation is offered up to 24 hours before the experience starts.

• This tour is suitable for all travelers, with a 5.0 rating based on 2 reviews.