Get Exclusive App Deals
  1. Home
  2. Greece
  3. Attica
  4. Central Athens
  5. Half-day/Full-day Tours
  6. Ancient Olympia full day guided tour from Athens
Product #620214
3
Ancient Olympia full day guided tour from Athens
Ancient Olympia full day guided tour from Athens
Ancient Olympia full day guided tour from Athens

Ancient Olympia full day guided tour from Athens

Greece-Attica , Central Athens , Piraeus , Plaka
Free cancellation 2 day(s) prior to experience date
Please present the e-voucher on-site
  • Discover the birthplace of the Olympic Games on this full-day guided tour from Athens.
[5% App discount] Code: APP5OFF , HK: APP15HK
Instant confirmation

Package Options

Details
Select a package to view details

Sightseeing Tours

Tour TypeShared tour
Transportation methodTransfer from meeting point
Departure TimeStandard Departure (8-9 am)
Tour typesGuided tour, Audio guide
Meal arrangementArrange yourself
Additional service & facilityTransfer included
Sightseeing typeHistoric site tour, Bus tour
TransportBus tour

Product Info

-What you can expect-
After a scenic drive through the beautiful Greek countryside, you'll arrive at Ancient Olympia—the legendary birthplace of the Olympic Games. Here, you can wander among the ruins of the Temple of Hera, where the modern flame is still lit, and admire the site of the grand Temple of Zeus. You'll also have the opportunity to explore the original Stadium and Bouleuterion.

Following a day steeped in history, take some time to relax in the delightful contemporary village of Olympia. Enjoy a leisurely stroll down its narrow lanes, indulge in some retail therapy or savour authentic Greek cuisine.

Next, hop aboard a comfortable, air-conditioned coach for a seamless transfer to the Corinth Canal. As you journey through the spectacular Greek countryside, soak up the views before arriving at Ancient Olympia. This is where athletic prowess, spiritual devotion, and architectural genius once converged, making it one of Greece's most iconic sanctuaries.

Your exploration begins with the Temple of Hera, a sacred site where the modern Olympic Flame is still ignited before every Games. Then proceed to the majestic Temple of Zeus, which was once home to an enormous gold-and-ivory statue of Zeus—one of the Seven Wonders of the Ancient World.

Purchase Notice

Duration: Lasts 13 hours

Reminders

  • Please refer to your voucher for final information regarding meeting points, pick-up locations, and pick-up time

  • Meeting point description: Meet your guide and a bus at Hondos center department store, Omonoia Square.

  • Know in advance:Please provide your personal details during booking

  • You can choose between two options: without entrance tickets, and with entrance tickets to the archaeological area

  • The adio guide is available in 11 languages: English, Italian, French, Spanish, German, Portuguese, Russian, Japanese, Polish, Chinese, Korean

FAQ

1. What makes Ancient Olympia a significant historical site to visit?

Ancient Olympia holds immense historical importance as the birthplace of the Olympic Games, dating back to 776 BC. It was a major Panhellenic sanctuary dedicated to Zeus, where athletes from across the Greek world competed. Visiting allows you to walk through the ruins of temples, athletic facilities, and administrative buildings, offering a profound connection to ancient Greek history, culture, and the origins of global sporting events.

2. Which key historical landmarks can visitors explore at Ancient Olympia?

At Ancient Olympia, visitors can explore several iconic landmarks. These include the ancient Olympic Stadium, where the games were held, the Philippeion, the Bouleuterion (Council House), and the Prytaneion. You'll also see the ruins of the Temple of Zeus and the Temple of Hera, where the Olympic flame is lit today. The archaeological museum houses significant artifacts found on site, such as the famous Hermes of Praxiteles.

3. What is the recommended duration for exploring Ancient Olympia?

To thoroughly explore the archaeological site and the Archaeological Museum of Ancient Olympia, a minimum of 3 to 4 hours is generally recommended. This allows sufficient time to walk through the ruins, appreciate the historical context, and view the extensive collection of artifacts in the museum, ensuring a comprehensive understanding of the site's significance.

4. Are entrance tickets required to access Ancient Olympia and its archaeological museum?

Yes, entrance tickets are required to access both the archaeological site of Ancient Olympia and its accompanying Archaeological Museum. These tickets typically grant admission to both areas. It is advisable to secure your tickets in advance, especially during peak travel seasons, to ensure smooth entry and optimize your visiting experience. When booking through KKday, tickets are often included or can be easily added, offering convenience and a streamlined process for your visit.

5. What unique experiences can visitors have at the archaeological site of Ancient Olympia?

Visitors to Ancient Olympia can experience walking on the original Olympic track in the ancient stadium, imagining the athletes of antiquity. You can stand where the Olympic flame was first lit and explore the ruins of the gymnasiums and wrestling schools. The site offers a unique opportunity to immerse oneself in the cradle of the Olympic Games and visualize the rituals and competitions that shaped Western civilization.

6. How far is Ancient Olympia from Athens and what is the typical travel time?

Ancient Olympia is approximately 260 to 300 kilometers (160 to 185 miles) west of Athens, depending on the exact route. The typical travel time by road, usually by bus or private vehicle, is around 3.5 to 4.5 hours each way without significant stops. A full-day guided tour from Athens often accounts for this travel, providing comfortable transportation to and from the site.

7. What is the significance of the Olympic flame and stadium at Ancient Olympia?

The Olympic flame at Ancient Olympia holds profound symbolic significance as it originates from the site where the ancient games began. It is lit using a parabolic mirror reflecting the sun's rays, symbolizing purity and the connection to the sun god Apollo. The ancient Olympic Stadium is where the original foot races and other athletic events took place, serving as the very ground where sporting history was forged, embodying the spirit of competition and peace.

8. What facilities are available for visitors at the Ancient Olympia site?

For visitors at Ancient Olympia, essential facilities include restrooms, a souvenir shop, and a small cafe or snack bar near the museum entrance. The Archaeological Museum, located adjacent to the site, also provides additional amenities. Visitors should wear comfortable shoes for walking on uneven terrain and consider bringing water, especially during warmer months, as much of the site is outdoors.

Get Help

KKday Help Center