Private Day Trip to Corinth Canal and Ancient Olympia from Athens/Pireaus
Description
Ancient Olympia Day trip offers the visitor the irresistible combination of stunning natural scenery and the legacy of a fascinating and diverse cultural heritage. The ancient Olympic Games were a series of athletic festivals held in honor of Zeus,The games were originally held in Olympia as early as the 776 BC. The most outstanding building is the 5th Century Temple of Zeus, built by Livon, which contained the 12 meter high statue by Phideas, one of the seven wonders of the ancient world. The stadium which could seat at least 20,000 people and was the largest of its kind. The Temple of Hera is where the Olympic flame is lit from the sun and then taken by runners to light the torch wherever the games are being held, a tradition which dates all the way back to 1936AD. Even today you will notice runners using the area for fun and for practice. The museum is across the road and contains the 4th Century BC statue of Hermes by Praxiteles
Tour Options
Itinerary
Depart from and drive along the coast line until we reach the Corinth Canal where we will make a brief stop. The Corinth Canal connects the Gulf of Corinth with the Saronic Gulf in the Aegean Sea. It cuts through the narrow Isthmus of Corinth and separates the Peloponnese from the Greek mainland, arguably making the peninsula an island. ls considered one of the great engineering accomplishments of Greece. The canal was dug through the Isthmus at sea level and has no locks. It is 6.4 kilometres (4 mi) in length and only 21.4 metres (70 ft) wide at its base. The canal was constructed from 1880 to 1893, however, it is something that shipowners and captains had dreamed about for some 2000 years before it became a reality.
We will drive by the coastal road along the Saronic Gulf to Corinth Canal (sort stop). Drive on the highway, pass by Patra town and arrive in Olympia around noon. Visit the New Archaeological Museum and see among others the Sculpture Masterpieces of Hermes by Praxitelis and the Nike (Victory) by Paionios. Visit also the Archaeological Site with Temples of Zeus and Hera and the Ancient Olympic Stadium, where the First Olympic Games in 776 B.C. were held.
Highlights
What's included
Pickup Locations & Times
Accommodation Piraeus area, Port and Cruise Terminal (Included). Meeting point: The driver will meet you at the port holding a sign with your name on Accommodation in Athens and Athens Suburbs Pickup/drop off from/to Accommodation located outside Athens Pickup/drop off from/to Athens Airport Meeting point: The driver will meet you inside the airport holding a sign with your name on
Important Information
- Wheelchair accessible
- Infants and small children can ride in a pram or stroller
- Service animals allowed
- Specialized infant seats are available
- Suitable for all physical fitness levels
- Transport is wheelchair accessible however be prepared for uneven surfaces at the sites visited which may be difficult for those with walking disabilities or using a wheelchair
- Infant seats are available on request if advised at time of booking
