The ancient birthplace of the Olympic Games beckons travelers to explore its rich history and cultural significance. The Ancient Olympia Shore Excursion offers an immersive experience, guiding visitors through the UNESCO World Heritage site while providing insights into the legendary events that shaped Greece’s past. From the iconic Temple of Zeus to the torch-lighting ceremony, this excursion promises a captivating journey that tantalizes the senses with a traditional Greek lunch. Whether you’re a history buff or simply seeking a glimpse into a bygone era, this shore excursion promises to leave a lasting impression.
Key Points
- Private tour of the UNESCO World Heritage site of Olympia, including visits to the archaeological site, museum, and Temple of Zeus.
- Learn about the city’s history and the Olympic torch lighting site from a licensed tour guide.
- Enjoy a traditional Greek lunch as part of the memorable journey into ancient Greek history.
- Flexible meeting and pickup arrangements, with transportation in an air-conditioned vehicle.
- Highly rated tour with positive reviews, ensuring a personalized and accessible experience.
Tour Overview and Highlights
The Ancient Olympia Shore Excursion offers visitors a chance to explore the UNESCO World Heritage site of Olympia, the birthplace of the Olympic Games.
This private tour includes visits to the archaeological site, the museum, and the Temple of Zeus. Guests will learn about the city’s history and witness the site where the Olympic torch is lit.
With a 4.6 rating from 20 reviews, the tour provides a personalized experience, ensuring a memorable journey into ancient Greek history.
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Inclusions and Costs
This private tour includes private transportation in an air-conditioned vehicle, a licensed tour guide at the archaeological site and museum, and live commentary along with a bottled water and guidebook for Olympia. The admission fee is 20 euros per person, with free entry for teenagers up to 18 years old. Lunch is an additional 20 euros per person. Gratuities are included in the total cost, which starts from $481.19 per group (up to 15 people).
Inclusions | Cost |
---|---|
Private Transportation | Included |
Licensed Tour Guide | Included |
Live Commentary | Included |
Bottled Water | Included |
Guidebook | Included |
Admission Fee | €20 per person |
Lunch | €20 per person |
Gratuities | Included |
Total Cost | From $481.19 per group (up to 15) |
Meeting and Pickup Information
Where does the tour meet up? The tour meets at the Katakolon Port.
After exiting the port gate, visitors should follow the red footpath to the meeting point. The meeting point is flexible, allowing for customized pickup arrangements.
Once the tour concludes, you will be returned to the original meeting point.
The tour operates daily from 7:00 AM to 5:00 PM, providing ample schedule flexibility.
With a convenient and adaptable pickup location, the Ancient Olympia Shore Excursion ensures a seamless start to this immersive historical adventure.
Accessibility and Additional Information
Although the Ancient Olympia Shore Excursion is wheelchair accessible and can accommodate strollers and infant seats, most travelers can participate in this activity.
Confirmation is received within 48 hours of booking, subject to availability. Guests can enjoy a flexible meeting point selection, with the activity ending back at the original meeting point.
Operating hours are daily from 7:00 AM to 5:00 PM. Free cancellation is available up to 24 hours before the experience starts, providing travelers with added flexibility and peace of mind.
Customer Reviews and Feedback
The customer reviews for the Ancient Olympia Shore Excursion highlight both positive and negative experiences.
Travelers praise the knowledgeable guides and enjoyable traditional lunch. However, some note issues with transportation and guide availability at the archaeological site.
Specific guides like Dora, Athanasia, and Evi receive high praise. To improve, the tour operator could provide clearer communication on guide services and transportation expectations.
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Exploring the UNESCO World Heritage Site of Olympia
Visitors to the UNESCO World Heritage Site of Olympia can enjoy the ancient Greek city’s rich history and cultural significance.
The archaeological site features the remains of temples, stadiums, and the original Olympic Games site where the Olympic torch is still lit every four years.
Highlights include:
- Exploring the ruins of the Temple of Zeus, one of the Seven Wonders of the Ancient World
- Visiting the Olympia Archaeological Museum to see remarkable artifacts from the ancient games
- Discovering the Bouleuterion, where the council that organized the ancient Olympic Games convened
- Witnessing the Palaestra, the training grounds for ancient Olympian athletes
- Imagining the vibrant atmosphere of the original Olympic ceremonies at the ancient stadium.
Discovering the Temple of Zeus and Olympic Torch Lighting Site
At the heart of the ancient site of Olympia lies the majestic Temple of Zeus, one of the crowning jewels visitors can explore.
This massive structure, dedicated to the king of the Greek gods, once housed a colossal statue of Zeus, one of the Seven Wonders of the Ancient World.
Nearby, the site of the ancient Olympic torch lighting ceremony stands as a testament to Olympia’s legacy.
Guests can enjoy the rich history and feel the echoes of the past as they walk the same grounds where the Olympic Games were born over 2,700 years ago.
Savoring the Traditional Greek Lunch Experience
After exploring the archaeological wonders of ancient Olympia, guests can look forward to savoring a traditional Greek lunch experience.
The meal features:
- Locally-sourced ingredients, including fresh vegetables, olives, and feta cheese
- Classic Greek dishes like moussaka, dolmades, and tzatziki
- Homemade breads, paired with regional wines
- An opportunity to immerse in the culinary traditions of the region
- Ample time to relax and enjoy the flavors, ambiance, and camaraderie of a shared dining experience
This traditional lunch caps off the shore excursion, providing a well-rounded cultural experience for visitors.
Frequently Asked Questions
How Long Does the Tour Last?
The tour lasts approximately 8 hours, as it operates daily from 7:00 AM to 5:00 PM. Pickup and drop-off is at the Katakolon Port, with the experience ending back at the meeting point.
Can I Book the Tour for a Group Larger Than 15 People?
Yes, the tour can accommodate groups larger than 15 people. According to the information provided, the total cost for the tour is from $481.19 per group, with no specified maximum group size.
Is the Tour Available in Languages Other Than English?
The tour is available in several languages, including English, Greek, and other major European languages. Travelers can request a guide who speaks their preferred language when booking the excursion.
Can I Customize the Tour Itinerary to My Preferences?
The tour can likely be customized to individual preferences, though details would need to be discussed with the tour provider. They often offer flexibility to accommodate special requests within the overall tour structure.
What Should I Bring or Wear for the Tour?
Wear comfortable walking shoes and dress for the weather as the tour involves exploring an archaeological site. Bring sun protection, camera, and any personal items you may need. Light and breathable clothing is recommended for the excursion.
The Sum Up
This captivating Ancient Olympia Shore Excursion provides a unique opportunity to explore the birthplace of the Olympic Games. Visitors can enjoy the archaeological site, marvel at the Temple of Zeus, and enjoy a traditional Greek lunch, all while gaining insights from a licensed guide. With flexible pickup options and personalized service, this excursion offers an unforgettable glimpse into ancient Greek history.
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