Private Day Trip to Ancient Olympia; Origins of the Olympic Games

Athens , Greece

Private Day Trip to Ancient Olympia; Origins of the Olympic Games

Active

11h

For a full refund, cancel at least 24 hours before the scheduled departure time.

Instant confirmation

Mobile or paper ticket accepted

About this experience

Discover the birthplace of the Olympic Games on a private full-day trip to Ancient Olympia. Enjoy hotel pickup in a spacious, air-conditioned vehicle with a friendly English-speaking driver. First, stop at the Corinth Canal, an engineering marvel linking the Aegean and Ionian Seas, perfect for photos. Continue to Ancient Olympia, where the first Olympic Games were held. Explore the Altis ruins, the Temple of Zeus site, and the original stadium track. Visit the Archaeological Museum to see masterpieces like Hermes by Praxiteles, the Nike of Paionios, and sculptures from the Temple of Zeus. The fully customizable tour lets you adjust stops or extend your time. After exploring at your own pace, relax on the drive back to your hotel, enriched by the spirit and history of Ancient Greece.

Available options

Private Day Trip to Ancient Olympia; Origins of the Olympic Games

Pickup included

What's included

Fuel and Tolls

Hotel pickup and drop-off

Water

WiFi on board

Professional English-speaking local driver/informal guide

All taxes and handling charges

Hotel or custom pickup and drop-off

Detailed itinerary

Stop 1

The Corinth Canal or Isthmos how local's call it is a narrow waterway cutting through the Isthmus of Corinth, linking the Aegean and Ionian Seas.

Ancient Olympia is the birthplace of the Olympic Games and a UNESCO World Heritage Site.

What's not included

Meals and beverages

Tips and Gratuities

Ancient Olympia

Licensed guides available to accompany you inside the attractions

Available languages

Guide guide

Important information

Infants and small children can ride in a pram or stroller

Public transportation options are available nearby

Specialized infant seats are available

Suitable for all physical fitness levels

For 1-4 people: A comfortable sedan will be assigned to your group.

For 5-8 people: A spacious minivan will be assigned to your group.

For 9-12 people: A private minibus will be assigned to your group.

For 13-17 people: A private bus will be assigned to your group.

Throughout your ride, our drivers serve as informal local guides—sharing stories, history, and local tips at every stop. Please note that drivers are not permitted to enter museums or archaeological areas, but they’ll ensure you make the most of your visit with suggestions and background information before you explore on your own.

Some stops on your itinerary may be closed on the date of travel due to public holidays, maintenance or special events. We recommend verifying opening hours on the attraction’s official website or contacting us before your tour. If a stop is unexpectedly closed, we will try to offer a suitable alternative.

Important notes

Please show this to your driver.

About Athens

Athens, the capital of Greece, is a city rich in history and culture, often considered the cradle of Western civilization. It is home to iconic ancient landmarks, vibrant neighborhoods, and a thriving modern scene.

Top Attractions

Acropolis of Athens

The Acropolis is the most iconic landmark in Athens, featuring ancient ruins and temples, including the Parthenon.

Historical 2-3 hours €20 (combined ticket for multiple sites)

Ancient Agora of Athens

The heart of ancient Athens, featuring the Temple of Hephaestus and the Stoa of Attalos.

Historical 1-2 hours €8 (included in the combined ticket)

Plaka

A charming, historic neighborhood with narrow streets, neoclassical houses, and vibrant nightlife.

Cultural 2-3 hours Free to explore

Acropolis Museum

A modern museum showcasing artifacts from the Acropolis and its surroundings.

Museum 1-2 hours €10

Temple of Olympian Zeus

An ancient temple dedicated to Zeus, once the largest temple in Greece.

Historical 30 minutes to 1 hour €6 (included in the combined ticket)

Must-Try Local Dishes

Moussaka

A baked dish with layers of eggplant, minced meat, and béchamel sauce.

Dinner Vegetarian versions available

Souvlaki

Grilled meat skewers, often served with pita bread and tzatziki.

Snack Can be made with chicken, pork, or vegetarian options

Tzatziki

A yogurt-based dip with cucumber, garlic, and herbs.

Snack Vegetarian and vegan options available

Baklava

A sweet pastry made with layers of filo, nuts, and honey syrup.

Dessert Vegetarian

Popular Activities

Hiking in the mountains Rock climbing Scuba diving Beach visits Spa treatments Café hopping Museum visits Theater performances

Best Time to Visit

April to June, September to October

The best time to visit Athens is during the spring and autumn months when the weather is pleasant and the tourist crowds are smaller.

18°C to 32°C 64°F to 90°F

Practical Information

Language

Official: Greek
Widely spoken: English, French, German
English: Moderately spoken

Currency

Euro (EUR)

Time Zone

GMT+2 (EET)

Electricity

230VV, 50HzHz

Safety Information

Overall Safety Rating: Generally safe

Athens is generally safe for travelers, but petty crime and pickpocketing can occur in tourist areas. Be cautious with your belongings and avoid poorly lit areas at night.

Important Precautions:

• Keep valuables secure
• Use licensed taxis or ride-sharing apps
• Be cautious with ATMs and credit cards

Getting there

By air

Eleftherios Venizelos International Airport • 30 km from city center

By train

Athens Central Railway Station

By bus

KTEL Bus Station

Getting around

Public transport

Clean, efficient, and air-conditioned. Easy to navigate with clear signage in English.

Taxis

Available • Apps: Beat, Uber

Rentals

Car, Bike, Scooter

Neighborhoods

Plaka Monastiraki Psiri Koukaki Kolonaki

Day trips

Cape Sounion

65 km from Athens • Half day to full day

A scenic coastal area featuring the Temple of Poseidon with stunning views of the Aegean Sea.

Delphi

180 km from Athens • Full day

An ancient archaeological site and home to the famous Oracle of Delphi.

Meteora

350 km from Athens • Overnight

A unique landscape featuring rock formations and medieval monasteries perched atop cliffs.

Festivals

Athens Festival • May to October Athens Epidaurus Festival • June to August Athens International Film Festival • October

Pro tips

Visit major attractions early in the morning or late in the afternoon to avoid crowds and heat
Use the metro for easy and efficient travel around the city
Explore local neighborhoods for an authentic Greek experience
Try local street food for a quick and delicious meal
Learn a few basic Greek phrases to enhance your experience and connect with locals