Discover Ancient Olympia on a Private Day Trip from Athens

This private day trip to Olympia offers a detailed journey into Greece’s most famous ancient site, with a personalized touch that makes the experience intimate and flexible. Priced at $847 per group up to 2, the tour lasts approximately 10 hours, starting with hotel pickup and ending with return to Athens.

The trip combines historical exploration with a charming visit to a local honey farm, making it ideal for those interested in both Greece’s ancient past and its local traditions. While the tour covers key highlights like the Olympic ruins and archaeological museum, it also features scenic stops such as the Corinth Canal. This experience suits travelers who appreciate in-depth sightseeing, comfortable private transport, and cultural insights.

You can check availability for your dates here:

Key Points

Private tour with an English-speaking driver for a personalized experience.
Visit to the archaeological site of Olympia, including the Temple of Zeus and Temple of Hera.
Photo stop at the Corinth Canal, a stunning waterway connecting the Aegean and Ionian Seas.
Tour of a local honey farm, where you learn about beekeeping and try honey-based desserts.
Duration of 10 hours with hotel pickup and drop-off included.
Entry fees to Olympia sites are not included, so plan for additional costs.

Prefer personalized experiences? Here are other private options we've covered in Athens

Pick-up and Scenic Drive from Athens to Peloponnese

The journey begins with a hotel pickup in Athens, where a private driver welcomes you into a comfortable vehicle. The drive takes approximately an hour to reach the Corinth Canal, a remarkable 6-kilometer-long waterway famous for its narrow, dramatic cliffs. A 15-minute photo stop allows for capturing scenic views before continuing along the highway.

From the canal, the drive proceeds through the Peloponnese region to the town of Olympia. The scenery of Greece’s mainland offers a glimpse into the landscape that has shaped ancient history, and the private transport ensures a relaxed pace throughout the day.

The Corinth Canal: A Picturesque Photo Stop

Stopping at the Corinth Canal provides a quick but memorable break. This narrow canal, completed in the late 19th century, is considered an engineering marvel and offers striking views of the cliffs and waterway. The 15-minute photo stop is perfect for snapping pictures or simply appreciating the impressive construction from the viewpoint, making it a highlight early in the tour.

This stop also signals the transition from the mainland’s landscape to the more historically rich area of Olympia. It’s a brief but worthwhile window into Greece’s engineering feats.

Walking Through the Ruins of Olympia’s Sacred Site

The main focus of the tour is the archaeological site of Olympia, where you spend approximately 2 hours exploring the remains of Greece’s most sacred sanctuary. The Temple of Zeus, once home to a legendary gold and ivory statue of the god, is an awe-inspiring sight and is considered one of the Seven Wonders of the Ancient World.

Nearby, the Temple of Hera offers a glimpse into early Greek religious architecture, being one of the oldest major temples in Greece. The site’s expansive ruins include the ancient stadium and athletic facilities where the Olympic Games were originally held starting 776 B.C..

Walking around the site, it’s clear why Olympia drew people from all over the ancient Greek world, uniting them in sports and religious festivals for centuries. The site remains a powerful reminder of Greece’s historical importance in the world.

More Great Tours Nearby

Exploring the Olympia Archaeological Museum

After touring the ruins, a visit to the nearby archaeological museum provides insights into the artifacts uncovered from the site. Here, you find masterpieces like the Hermes of Praxiteles and the Nike (Victory) statue by Paionios, along with artifacts spanning from prehistoric periods to early Christian times.

The museum helps contextualize the ruins, showcasing art and relics that reveal the cultural and religious life of ancient Greece. The exhibits are well-presented, illustrating the craftsmanship and spiritual significance of Olympia’s sacred precinct.

While in Athens, here are other experiences we've covered

Honey Farm Visit: A Taste of Local Greece

Following the archaeological visits, the tour includes a visit to a local honey farm in Olympia. Here, you enjoy a 30-minute stop under shady trees, tasting fresh juice, Greek coffee, and hand-made quince desserts made with honey produced on the farm.

The farm owner shares stories about how beekeeping has been a part of village life for generations. Through demonstrations of traditional beekeeping tools, the visit offers a rare look into the life of bees and the importance of honey in Greek culture, both past and present.

This stop adds a sweet, authentic touch to the day, connecting visitors with local craftsmanship and traditions.

Free Time in Olympia for Shopping and Lunch

After the honey farm, there is about an hour of free time to explore the town of Olympia. This is the chance to browse local shops, buy souvenirs, or enjoy a casual lunch in the area. The town offers a relaxed atmosphere that complements the historical immersion of the visit.

While the tour does not include lunch, the free time allows for personal choices and a chance to soak up the local ambiance before heading back to Athens.

Return Journey to Athens with Comfort and Convenience

The trip concludes with a return drive to Athens, arriving back at your hotel after roughly 10 hours in total. The private transportation ensures a comfortable and stress-free experience, with the driver handling all the logistics.

The personalized nature of the tour means that timing and pacing are tailored, providing flexibility for your preferences. The entire experience offers a balanced mix of sightseeing, cultural insight, and relaxation.

Practical Details and Tips for the Tour

This private tour includes hotel pick-up and drop-off, a private car with an English-speaking driver, and all the stops mentioned. Entry fees to Olympia sites are not included, so travelers should budget extra for tickets. The tour is suitable for most people, but not recommended for those over 95 years of age or with mobility issues, due to the walking involved.

What to bring includes comfortable shoes and a camera for capturing the sights. The tour does not allow drones or drinks in the vehicle, so plan accordingly. The experience provider offers free cancellation up to 24 hours in advance and the option to reserve now and pay later for flexibility.

Why Choose This Private Olympia Trip

This tour stands out for its personalized service, with a private driver and a carefully curated itinerary that balances historical exploration with local culture. The inclusion of a honey farm visit adds an original touch, making the experience more than just a standard archaeological tour.

The scenic drive through the Peloponnese and the photo stop at Corinth Canal enhance the overall journey, blending natural beauty with historical significance. It’s an excellent choice for those who want a full-day, in-depth experience of Olympia from Athens, with the comfort of private transportation.

Ready to Book?

From Athens: Private Day Trip to Ancient Olympia

4.6

Frequently Asked Questions

What is the duration of this tour?
The tour lasts around 10 hours, including all stops, transportation, and free time.

Is transportation included?
Yes, hotel pickup and drop-off are included in the private car with an English-speaking driver.

Are entry fees to Olympia sites included?
No, entry fees are not included, and visitors should plan for additional costs.

What are the main sights at Olympia?
Highlights include the Temple of Zeus, Temple of Hera, ruins of the ancient stadium, and the archaeological museum.

Can I visit the Olympia museum?
Yes, the museum visit is part of the itinerary, showcasing artifacts like the Hermes of Praxiteles and Nike of Paionios.

Is this tour suitable for children or elderly?
It is generally suitable, but not recommended for those over 95 years or with significant mobility issues.

What should I bring?
Bring comfortable shoes and a camera to capture the sites and scenic views.

Can I cancel this tour?
Yes, free cancellation is available up to 24 hours before the scheduled start.

Does the tour include lunch?
No, lunch is not included, but free time in Olympia allows for personal dining choices.

Is this a group or private experience?
This is a private tour, offering a personalized experience tailored to your schedule and interests.

This From Athens: Private Day Trip to Ancient Olympia offers a well-rounded day of history, culture, and scenic beauty, making it a memorable addition to any trip to Greece.