Cruise Ships Tours from Katakolon
Tours departing from Katakolon Cruise port, from Cruise Ships - Olympia Tours
Ancient Treasures
Approximate Duration: 4 hours
The small fishing village of Katakolon is the gateway to the mystical site of ancient Olympia, some 25 miles to the east. Visit the remarkable site of Olympia where the first Olympiad was held. Its setting couldn't be more idyllic: in the middle of a fertile valley with the rivers of Alphios and Kladhios flowing past. The site was a sanctuary even before the stadium was built and the games took place in the sacred area called Altis. The most imposing monument in this area was the outstanding Temple of Zeus one of the Seven Wonders of the Ancient World. Today, only the ruins of the temple exist and the statue has disappeared, its traces lost in the ages. The Temple of Hera, the Prytaneion and the Philippeion were also monuments standing in the sacred grove. The famous Stadium, the largest of its day, is entered through a long, tunnel-like passage constructed in Roman times. Continue to the Archaeological Museum, a five-minute walk from the site. Among the great finds of the area that are displayed here are the Head of Hera and the superb statue of Hermes of Praxiteles. In addition you'll be able to admire ornaments from the Temple of Zeus and many other priceless pieces.
Birthplace of the Olympics
Approximate Duration: 4 hours
Visit the archaeological site of Olympia and spend time in the village of Olympia. The site was a sanctuary even before the Stadium was built and the games took place in 776 B.C. Today, only parts of the temple remain at the museum and only ruins remain at the site. The Temple of Zeus no longer exists and its traces have disappeared through the ages. The Temples of Hera, Prytaneion, and Philippeion are monuments that stood in the sacred grove. The famous Stadium, with a capacity of 45,000 spectators, is entered through a long, tunnel-like passage. Stand at the starting line and imagine the voices of thousands of spectators seating on the stone bleachers. Afterwards you'll go to the village of Olympia, where you'll enjoy free time to browse through the various souvenir shops and stores or perhaps have a drink while relaxing at a local cafe.
Olympics & Traditions
Approximate Duration: 4,5 hours
This tour will take you to the archaeological site of Olympia as the "Birthplace of the Olympics" tour and continue with a drive through picturesque countryside to a local family-owned wine estate where you'll be welcomed by the owners, the Kanellakopoulos family. Start your tour from the winery, with a mix of old and new equipment, the cellar, and the very old olive press. Afterward, visit the traditional family museum with a collection of various old agricultural tools and equipment, interwoven with the estate cultivation throughout the years. You'll have the opportunity to taste the local wines and snacks offered by the owners.