Stepping off the cruise ship in Katakolo, visitors have the opportunity to uncover the captivating history of Ancient Olympia. This private shore excursion promises an immersive exploration led by a knowledgeable guide. As they wander the UNESCO-listed ruins, guests will come face-to-face with iconic sites like the Temple of Zeus and the original Olympic stadium, learning about the ancient games that have inspired generations. But the journey doesn’t end there – the Olympia Museum awaits, housing remarkable artifacts that shed light on this remarkable civilization. With comfortable transportation and a personalized experience, this excursion is sure to leave a lasting impression.
This experience made our list of the 17 Best Tours In Olympia.
Key Points
- A private shore excursion from the Katakolo cruise port that provides guided exploration of the UNESCO-listed archaeological site of Ancient Olympia.
- Opportunity to see the remains of ancient temples, stadiums, and other structures associated with the iconic Olympic Games.
- Includes private transportation with an English-speaking driver, as well as a licensed tour guide at the Ancient Olympia site.
- Visitors can explore the Olympia Museum, which houses remarkable artifacts such as the Hermes of Praxiteles bronze statue.
- Convenient pickup and drop-off from the Katakolo cruise ship port, ensuring a seamless and personalized experience.
Tour Overview
This private shore excursion from Katakolo Port takes travelers to the ancient site of Olympia.
It’s an ideal experience for those interested in Greek history. During the tour, a private guide leads visitors through the UNESCO-listed archaeological ruins and the informative Olympia museum.
Guests can explore the remains of temples, stadiums, and other structures that were once part of this legendary site, where the ancient Olympic Games were held.
With a private driver transporting travelers, this shore excursion offers a personalized and immersive look into Greece’s rich past.
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Inclusions
The private shore excursion includes pickup and drop-off from the Katakolo cruise ship port, with private transportation and an English-speaking driver provided throughout the tour.
A licensed tour guide will accompany the group at the Ancient Olympia site, ensuring an informative and engaging experience.
All taxes are included in the price. While the entry/admission fee to Olympia isn’t covered, gratuities for the guide and driver are optional.
The tour is accessible for strollers, and infant seats are available upon request. Most travelers can participate, though the site isn’t wheelchair-accessible and is near public transportation.
Meeting and Pickup
Pickup for the private shore excursion takes place at the Katakolo Port in Greece. The driver will meet you right upon your disembarkation from the cruise ship. The meeting point is conveniently located, making it easy for you to join the tour without any hassle.
Once everyone in your group has arrived, the driver will escort you to the private transportation that will take you to the ancient site of Olympia. This seamless pickup arrangement ensures a smooth start to your immersive exploration of the UNESCO-listed archaeological ruins and the fascinating history they hold.
Exploring Ancient Olympia
Once the seamless pickup is complete, the private guide leads the way into the UNESCO-protected grounds of Ancient Olympia.
Visitors explore the impressive remains of this legendary site, learning about its history as the birthplace of the ancient Olympic Games. The guide provides insightful commentary, bringing the ruins to life with tales of athletic contests and religious ceremonies.
Highlights include the grand Temple of Zeus, the athletes’ training area, and the original Olympic stadium.
The museum houses a remarkable collection of artifacts, including the renowned statue of Hermes by Praxiteles.
With the guide’s expertise, travelers gain a deeper appreciation for the cultural and historical significance of this ancient Greek wonder.
Visiting the Museum
Visitors step into the remarkable Olympia Museum, which houses an unparalleled collection of artifacts from the ancient site.
The museum’s highlights include:
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The Hermes of Praxiteles, a stunning bronze statue considered one of the finest examples of ancient Greek sculpture.
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Impressive ancient stone sculptures depicting athletes, gods, and goddesses that were once part of the Temple of Zeus.
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The original marble tripod from the Temple of Apollo, a relic from the ancient Olympic Games.
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Intricate stone and bronze inscriptions that provide insight into the history and traditions of the ancient Olympics.
The museum’s exhibits offer a captivating glimpse into the grandeur and significance of Olympia, the birthplace of the Olympic Games.
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Transportation and Accessibility
The private transportation for this shore excursion is provided by an English-speaking driver who will meet participants directly at the Katakolo cruise ship port upon disembarkation. The tour is not wheelchair accessible, but strollers and service animals are permitted. Infant seats are available upon request.
Accessibility | Details |
---|---|
Wheelchair | Not Accessible |
Stroller | Accessible |
Service Animals | Allowed |
Infant Seats | Available |
The excursion is also located near public transportation, making it easily accessible for travelers. The tour caters to most participants, ensuring a comfortable and convenient experience.
Pricing and Cancellation
The tour is priced starting from $397.50, with the exact cost varying based on the size of the group. This private shore excursion is non-refundable, and no refunds will be issued for cancellations.
Here are a few key things to know about the pricing and cancellation policy:
- The price is per group, not per person.
- Payment is required in full at the time of booking.
- Cancellations aren’t allowed, and no refunds will be provided.
- In the event of a cruise schedule change, the tour will be rescheduled or a full refund will be issued.
Guest Reviews
According to the reviews, guests have been overwhelmingly satisfied with this private shore excursion to Ancient Olympia.
All three reviewers have given the tour a perfect 5-star rating, praising the knowledgeable and engaging guide who brought the ancient site to life.
Travelers appreciated the personalized attention and flexibility of the private tour, which allowed them to explore the archaeological ruins and museum at their own pace.
Many commented on the convenience of the pickup and drop-off service from the cruise ship, as well as the comfortable private transportation.
Frequently Asked Questions
Are There Restroom Facilities Available During the Tour?
Yes, there are restroom facilities available during the tour. Visitors can access public restrooms at the archaeological site of Ancient Olympia as well as at the on-site museum, allowing for convenient breaks throughout the excursion.
Can We Bring Our Own Food and Drinks on the Tour?
Yes, guests can bring their own food and drinks on the tour. The tour doesn’t provide any meals or refreshments, so guests are welcome to pack their own provisions for the duration of the excursion.
How Long Is the Actual Tour Duration?
The tour duration is approximately 4 hours. According to the description, the private shore excursion includes transportation to and from Ancient Olympia, as well as a guided tour of the archaeological site and museum.
Can We Customize the Itinerary of the Tour?
The tour itinerary can be customized to some extent. Travelers can discuss their preferences with the tour provider prior to the excursion, and the guide will try to accommodate any reasonable requests within the available time and resources.
Are There Any Additional Fees or Costs Not Included in the Price?
The price doesn’t include the entry/admission fee to the Ancient Olympia archaeological site. Gratuities for the tour guide are optional. There may be additional costs like meals or souvenirs not covered by the tour price.
Recap
This private shore excursion allows visitors to enjoy the rich history of Ancient Olympia. With a knowledgeable guide and comfortable private transportation, guests can explore the renowned archaeological ruins, including the iconic Temple of Zeus and original Olympic stadium. The tour also includes a visit to the Olympia Museum, where remarkable artifacts provide a glimpse into the ancient Olympic Games. This excursion offers a comprehensive and personalized experience for discovering the wonders of this UNESCO-listed site.
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