The Katakolon: Olympia Highlights Shore Excursion offers a captivating journey from the port to the ancient ruins of Olympia. Priced from $63.37 per person, the 4-hour tour includes roundtrip transportation, professional guidance, and entrance tickets, allowing visitors to explore the Temple of Zeus and ancient stadium. With 1.5 hours dedicated to the ruins, participants can enjoy the rich history of the Olympic tradition. But what secrets and stories lie within these ancient grounds?
Key Points
- This 4-hour shore excursion takes you from Katakolon port to the ancient ruins of Olympia, the birthplace of the Olympic Games.
- The tour includes roundtrip air-conditioned transportation, a 1.5-hour exploration of key sites like the Temple of Zeus, and 50 minutes of free time.
- A knowledgeable local guide provides historical insights, allowing you to learn about the Olympic tradition and the grandeur of ancient Greek culture.
- The tour is priced from $63.37 per person, with free cancellation available up to 24 hours in advance and a reserve now & pay later option.
- The tour is not suitable for individuals with mobility impairments or wheelchair users, and comfortable shoes are recommended for exploring the ruins.
Overview and Pricing
The Katakolon: Olympia Highlights Shore Excursion is a 4-hour tour priced from $63.37 per person.
The tour, which departs from the John Latsis Katakolo Port, offers free cancellation up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund. Guests can book their spot without any upfront payment through the reserve now & pay later option.
The tour includes air-conditioned roundtrip transportation, a professional English-speaking guide, and entrance tickets to the Olympia site.
Visitors will have the opportunity to explore the ancient ruins of Olympia, the birthplace of the Olympic Games, during this comprehensive shore excursion.
Looking for more options in Olympia Greece? We've reviewed plenty of other experiences.
Itinerary and Transportation
The tour departs from the John Latsis Katakolo Port, with air-conditioned bus/coach transportation provided for the 40-minute journey to Olympia.
Departs from the John Latsis Katakolo Port, with air-conditioned transportation for the 40-minute journey to Olympia.
After exploring the ancient ruins for 1.5 hours, there’s 50 minutes of free time. The return trip to Katakolon takes 30 minutes.
Along the way, visitors can opt to visit the Nymphaion and Leonidaion Guesthouse.
The tour covers the key sites of Olympia, including the Temple of Zeus, Temple of Hera, Gymnasium, Palaestra, ancient stadium, and the Altis – the sacred enclosure of Zeus.
Tour Highlights
Descending upon the birthplace of the Olympic Games, visitors uncover the ancient ruins of Olympia, where they can marvel at the Temple of Zeus, the Temple of Hera, the Gymnasium, the Palaestra, the iconic ancient stadium, and the Altis – the sacred enclosure dedicated to the almighty Zeus.
Led by a knowledgeable local guide, travelers explore the history and mythology of this hallowed site, gaining a deeper appreciation for the legacy of the Olympic tradition.
From the towering temples to the remnants of the ancient athletic facilities, Olympia offers a captivating window into the grandeur of ancient Greece.
Inclusions and Exclusions
This tour includes several key features, such as cruise port pick-up, air-conditioned roundtrip transportation, and access to the ancient site of Olympia with a professional English-speaking guide.
Entrance tickets to the Olympia site are also included. An optional fee applies to visit the Olympia Museum.
However, the tour doesn’t cover food, drinks, or gratuities/tips, which are recommended to be paid in cash.
It’s important to note that this tour may not be suitable for people with mobility impairments or wheelchair users, and smoking isn’t allowed during the excursion.
More Great Tours NearbyImportant Information and Recommendations
Although not suitable for people with mobility impairments or wheelchair users, the tour offers several recommendations to enhance the experience.
Comfortable shoes are a must for exploring the ancient ruins. Sunglasses, hats, and sunscreen are advisable to protect against the Mediterranean sun. Bringing a water bottle is also recommended.
Smoking isn’t allowed at the archaeological sites. It’s important to note that all museums and historical sites in Greece are closed on local public holidays.
Following these simple tips will ensure a comfortable and memorable visit to the birthplace of the Olympic Games.
Exploring the Ancient Ruins of Olympia
As the tour bus winds its way through the picturesque countryside, guests are left in awe upon reaching the ancient site of Olympia.
The cradle of the Olympic Games, Olympia’s remarkable ruins evoke a sense of history and wonder. Visitors explore the Temple of Zeus, the Gymnasium, and the iconic Palaestra, learning about the myths and legends that shaped this sacred ground.
The guide brings the past to life, illuminating the significance of the Altis, the sacred enclosure of Zeus.
With time for independent exploration, guests can soak in the atmosphere of this legendary venue, imagining the thrill of ancient athletic competitions.
Uncovering the History and Mythology
At the heart of the Olympia tour lies the captivating history and mythology that permeate this ancient site.
Your knowledgeable guide will share the legends behind the Temple of Zeus, the birthplace of the Olympic Games, and the revered Altis.
Explore the Gymnasium, where athletes trained, and the Palaestra, the wrestling school.
Marvel at the ingenuity of the ancient Greeks as you walk the grounds where the Olympic flame was first lit.
Discover how mythology intersected with the athletic competitions and religious rituals that took place in this sacred valley.
Making the Most of Your Shore Excursion
How can visitors make the most of their Olympia shore excursion? By following these tips:
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Arrive early to beat the crowds and heat. The site is best explored in the morning when the crowds are smaller.
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Wear comfortable shoes and dress for the Mediterranean climate. Bring sun protection and hydration to stay comfortable.
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Make the most of the guided tour, engaging with the knowledgeable guide to understand the history and mythology behind the ancient ruins.
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Allocate extra time for optional stops, like the Nymphaion and Leonidaion Guesthouse, to fully immerse in the rich history of Olympia.
Since You Asked
Is There a Minimum Group Size Requirement?
No, there doesn’t appear to be a minimum group size requirement for this tour. The information provided doesn’t mention any group size minimums, suggesting you can book the tour without needing to meet a minimum number of participants.
What Happens if the Tour Is Cancelled Due to Weather?
If the tour is cancelled due to weather, customers will receive a full refund. The tour operator provides a flexible cancellation policy, allowing customers to cancel up to 24 hours in advance for a complete refund.
Can Children Participate in This Tour?
Children can participate in this tour. The tour is open to all ages, though it’s not recommended for those with mobility issues or wheelchair users. Parents should ensure their children are able to keep up with the walking.
Do We Have Time to Explore Olympia on Our Own?
Yes, the tour provides 50 minutes of free time in Olympia for guests to explore the ancient ruins on their own after the guided portion. Visitors can use this time to visit additional sites or spend more time at their desired locations.
Is Photography Allowed Within the Archaeological Site?
Photography is generally allowed within the Olympia archaeological site, but visitors should avoid using flash to preserve the ancient ruins. Some restricted areas may have additional photography rules, so it’s best to follow the guidance of the on-site staff.
Final Words
The Katakolon: Olympia Highlights Shore Excursion offers travelers a chance to enjoy the rich history and mythology of Olympia. With its comprehensive itinerary, comfortable transportation, and knowledgeable guidance, the tour provides an exceptional opportunity to explore the ancient ruins and uncover the significance of this iconic Greek site. It’s an experience that’s sure to leave a lasting impression on visitors.
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