Birthplace of the Olympic Games
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Port
Katakolon (Olympia), Greece
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Activity Level
Strenuous Activity
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Excursion Type
All
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Wheelchair Accessible
No
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Starting At (prices in USD)
$110
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Minimum Age
Information Not Currently Available
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Duration
Approximately 4½ Hours
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Meals Included
Meals not included
Archaeological Site of Olympia
Olympia is a peaceful place today, shaded by plane trees, poplars, oaks and pines. The athletes and spectators are long gone and the temples are now ghosts of their glorious past, but the Olympic tradition lives on. The Olympic flame is still kindled at this ancient site every four years and the Olympic torch begins its journey here as runners carry it in a relay to the site of the current Olympic Games.
A 40-minute drive from the pier takes you through rolling hills and olive groves to the archaeological site and museum. Your knowledgeable guide brings ancient Olympia to life for you. See where the athletes practiced and prepared for their events and where the races were run. Athletic contests ended here in AD 393; the temples were destroyed and the great Sanctuary of Zeus was lost to time and pillage.
At the Archaeological Museum of Ancient Olympia, marvel at the remains of the pediments of the Temple of Zeus located in the museum's central hall. Other worthy exhibits include the Hermes, an original work by Praxiteles, and a helmet inscribed with the name of Miltiades, the commander of the Greek Army that defeated the Persians in the battle of Marathon. Following this fascinating tour of Olympia, one of the most unspoiled sites in Greece, you will stop briefly in the nearby village before returning to the pier.
Please note: The escorted walk through the Olympia excavations is approximately 1.5 hours; wear comfortable walking shoes. Expect dense crowding at the site. Use of an audio headset (included) will enhance your tour experience. Shade is limited; please dress accordingly. Bring a hat and wear sunscreen.