From Athens: Ancient Olympia and Corinth Canal all day Private Tour

Discover the Convenience of a Private Tour to Olympia and the Corinth Canal from Athens

This private day trip offers a seamless way to visit Ancient Olympia and the Corinth Canal without the hassle of organizing transport or navigating public transportation. Priced at $345.78 per person, the tour lasts approximately 8 to 10 hours, making it an ideal choice for travelers eager to explore key archaeological sites with comfort and flexibility. The tour includes hotel pickup in Athens, a luxurious air-conditioned vehicle with Wi-Fi, water, and chargers, and free time to explore each site at your own pace.

What really sets this tour apart is the private transportation, which saves time and allows a relaxed itinerary. The knowledgeable driver, while not a licensed guide, offers insights into the sites’ history, and assistance with ticket purchase makes the experience smoother. A highlight is the chance to visit both archaeological sites and museums, with optional visits to the Olympia Archaeological Museum or Museum of the Olympic Games. This tour suits those who appreciate a personalized approach and want to see significant Greek landmarks without the crowds or logistical stress.

Key Points

• Private, air-conditioned vehicle with Wi-Fi, water, and chargers for comfort.
• Visits to Corinth Canal, Olympia archaeological site, and museums included.
• Flexible stops and free time to explore at your own pace.
• Hotel pickup and drop-off in Athens, with options for various locations.
• Tour duration of 8 to 10 hours offers a full day of sightseeing.
• Tour cost is $345.78 per person, with group discounts available.

Scenic Drive Through the Peloponnese to the Corinth Canal

The tour departs from Athens in a luxury Mercedes-Benz vehicle equipped with air conditioning, Wi-Fi, water, and chargers. The first highlight of the journey is the Isthmus of Corinth, a narrow strip of land connecting Central Greece with the Peloponnese. This strategic location has ancient origins, with a wall built since the end of the 5th century BC and preserved through Byzantine times, emphasizing its historical importance.

During this 15-minute stop, travelers can admire the Corinth Canal, a marvel opened in 1880-1893 that connects the Saronic Gulf with the Gulf of Corinth. The narrowest point where the canal was built is just 6 kilometers long, and the drive offers stunning views of this engineering feat. The convenience of private transport means no waiting or crowding, giving ample time to snap photos and appreciate the landscape.

Exploring the Ancient Site of Olympia in the Peloponnese

The journey continues to Olympia, a small town famous for its archaeological site and as the birthplace of the Olympic Games. Located in a lush valley near the Alpheios River in Elis, Olympia has remained a symbol of peace and athletic excellence since ancient times. The site was a major Panhellenic religious sanctuary dedicated to Zeus and hosted the Olympic Games every four years from the 8th century BC to the 4th century AD.

The tour includes free time for visitors to explore the archaeological site, which is situated at the southwest foot of Mount Kronios. Key sites include the ancient stadium, where races and competitions took place, and the Temple of Zeus, built in the 5th century BC with a notable golden statue of Zeus once housed inside. Nearby, the Temple of Hera from the 7th century BC is recognized as one of Greece’s oldest temples, serving as the traditional site where the Olympic flame is lit ahead of each modern Games.

Visiting Key Structures: Stadium, Temple of Zeus, and Hera

At the archaeological site, the stadium measures over 200 meters in length and is nearly 30-34 meters wide, providing a glimpse into the athletic competitions of ancient Greece. Close by, the Temple of Zeus is distinguished by its limestone and marble construction, and once contained a colossal gold statue of the god, emphasizing its significance.

The Hera temple, built in Dorian style, dates back to the 7th century BC and is still used today as the site where the Olympic flame is ignited, linking past and present traditions. Visitors have ample opportunity to walk around these monuments, gaining unique insights into the ancient practices that inspired modern sports.

The Archaeological Museum of Olympia and the Museum of the Olympic Games

Following the exploration of the site, the tour often includes visits to two museums in Olympia. The Archaeological Museum of Olympia is renowned for its impressive collection, including the famous statues of Hermes by Praxiteles and Nike Paionios. The museum’s well-organized exhibits offer a deep dive into Olympia’s history and artifacts, with a focus on preserving the cultural legacy of the site.

Next, the Museum of the Olympic Games showcases findings related to the history of the ancient and modern Olympics, housed within the old archaeological museum. This museum provides context for the enduring legacy of Olympia, with displays that connect the ancient athletic festivals to contemporary Olympic traditions. Both museums are not included in the ticket price, but assistance with ticket purchase is available.

The Significance of Olympia in Today’s World

UNESCO recognizes Olympia as a world heritage site, emphasizing its relevance beyond Greece. The site’s historical importance lies in its role as the spiritual and athletic heart of ancient Greece, influencing modern notions of sportsmanship and international peace. The restoration of the Olympic Games in 1894 underscores its ongoing significance as a symbol of global unity and competition.

The combination of archaeological exploration and museum visits makes this tour particularly meaningful for those interested in both history and contemporary cultural practices. The site’s lush surroundings and well-preserved structures create a memorable setting for appreciating Greece’s contribution to world culture.

The Role of the Private Transportation and Flexible Schedule

One of the key advantages of this private tour is the flexibility it offers. Travelers can enjoy customized pick-up locations in Athens and tailored pick-up times. The private vehicle ensures a comfortable and unhurried pace, with free time at each stop for personal exploration or rest.

This setup also avoids the crowds often associated with larger group tours, allowing for a more relaxed experience. The driver’s knowledge of local history enriches the journey, even if he is not a licensed guide. Assistance with ticket purchases helps streamline visits, and the air-conditioned vehicle keeps travelers comfortable throughout the day.

Optional Visits to Olympia Museums and Additional Time

While the archaeological site and museums are included in the tour, visitors can request additional time for these attractions if desired. The Archaeological Museum of Olympia and the Museum of the Olympic Games are both highly regarded and provide a deeper understanding of Olympia’s significance.

Since the tour is private, extensions are flexible and can be arranged for a fee, making it adaptable to individual interests. This flexibility ensures that visitors who want more in-depth exploration can do so, without feeling rushed.

Practical Details and Booking Flexibility

The tour includes hotel pickup and drop-off in Athens, with no extra charge, making the experience convenient from start to finish. The group discounts make it more affordable for larger parties, and mobile tickets simplify access.

Confirmation is provided immediately after booking, and free cancellation is available up to 24 hours before the start time. The tour’s flexible schedule and hourly extensions allow travelers to personalize their experience, ensuring it aligns with their interests and pace.

Who Will Appreciate This Tour the Most

This private day trip is ideal for those who value comfort and flexibility. It suits travelers who prefer a personalized experience without the constraints of large groups, and who want to see Olympia and Corinth Canal in a single day. Enthusiasts of ancient history and archaeology will enjoy the sites and museums, while modern Olympic fans appreciate the connection to current traditions.

The tour’s cost reflects its personalized service and convenience, making it a good investment for those wanting an enriching and effortless sightseeing experience.

Summary of the Olympia and Corinth Canal Private Tour

This 8-10 hour private journey from Athens combines scenic drives, historical sites, and museum visits, all in a luxury vehicle with included amenities. It offers free time to explore each stop, along with hotel pickup and drop-off for maximum convenience. The cost of $345.78 per person includes private transportation and optional assistance with tickets, making it a practical choice for travelers seeking comfort and flexibility.

While the tour does not include site admission fees, the chance to see ancient Olympia, the Corinth Canal, and related museums makes it a comprehensive cultural experience. The positive reviews highlight the friendly, professional driver and the smooth, well-organized itinerary.

Frequently Asked Questions

What is included in the tour price?
The price covers private transportation in a Mercedes-Benz vehicle, hotel pickup and drop-off, Wi-Fi, bottled water, and chargers, and assistance with ticket purchases. Admission fees for the archaeological site and museums are not included.

How long is the tour?
The tour lasts approximately 8 to 10 hours, providing ample time to visit both Olympia and the Corinth Canal, with free time at each location.

Can I customize the pick-up time?
Yes, pick-up times are flexible and can be arranged to suit your schedule.

Is this tour suitable for all physical levels?
Yes, the tour involves walking around archaeological sites and museums, but the vehicle offers comfort and flexibility. It is suitable for most travelers.

Are there group discounts?
Yes, the tour offers group discounts and is private, so only your group participates.

Do I need to buy tickets in advance?
Assistance with ticket purchase is provided, but travelers need to cover the cost of admission themselves.

Can I extend the tour if I want to spend more time at Olympia?
Yes, hourly extensions are available for a fee, allowing more time at the sites.

Is a licensed guide available?
The driver is not a licensed guide and does not accompany visitors into sites. For guided tours, additional options may be available upon request.