The birthplace of Olympic games & Monastery of the rocks

Athens , Greece

The birthplace of Olympic games & Monastery of the rocks

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(8 reviews)

14h

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

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Mobile or paper ticket accepted

About this experience

The birthplace of Olympic games, the stadium that happened the games from 776 BC until 393 AD, 12 centuries of glory, 12 centuries for the honour and win.
The helmet of general Miltiadis that won the Persians at marathon 490 BC.

The byzantine monastery of Saint Jonh from 12 century that still have monks living exactly like 12 century.

All around, nature is blooming while the sounds of the Lousios river and the birds that are tweeting inspire an unprecedented calmness to every traveller in a wild and idyllic landscape.

Unique experience original experience of Greece.

Available options

The birthplace of Olympic games & Monastery of the rocks

Pickup included

What's included

Towels for the beach

Soda/Pop

Bottled water

Air-conditioned vehicle

Detailed itinerary

Stop 1

First stop is the Canal of Corinth. It is a canal that was finally built in 1890, although the idea of its passage already existed from 602 BC.
The view from here is breathtaking.

Stop 2

The birthplace of Olympic games, the stadium that happened the games from 776 BC until 393 AD, 12 centuries of glory, 12 centuries for the honour and win. Olympia was established in Greece as the most important religious and sports centre. The archeological site of Olympia, one of the largest in the country, gave us one of the richest sets of monuments and works of art, such as Hermes of Praxiteles. Here we will see, in addition to the stadium (45,000 seats), the temples of Hera and Zeus, the Philippion, the Council house, the laboratory of Feidias and in the museum the HELMET OF GENERAL MILTIADIS that won the Persians at marathon 490 BC.

After a dip in history, we will go for a dip in one of the most beautiful beaches of the Peloponnese, located near ancient Olympia. There we will also have lunch before our return to Athens.
(Swimming on the beach, concerns the summer months)

the Great Cave of Gortynia, which has been built on a rock of the Lousios Gorge. According to tradition, the monastery was built during the 12th century by monks who lived in nearby hermitages. At the end of the small courtyard of the monastery, with its stone-built fountain (1748), a heavy, imposing door that carries the holes from the Turks’ bullets 1779. The interior, as well as part of the rock that surrounds it, are embellished with frescoes of the 16th century.
The welcoming monks offer worshippers coffee, refreshing water, and olives while they enjoy the unique view of the gorge of ascetic paradises. The monastery has a significant library, while the monks practice the art of iconography and sewing of ecclesiastical vestments.

What's not included

Ticket for the archaeological site of Olympia

Lunch

Available languages

Guide guide

Written guide

Reviews breakdown

Viator 5.0

4 reviews

5★

4★

3★

2★

1★

Tripadvisor 4.5

4 reviews

5★

4★

3★

2★

1★

Important information

Public transportation options are available nearby

Specialized infant seats are available

Suitable for all physical fitness levels

The tour have 2 options that guests must choose. Swimming or visit the byzantine monastery.

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