Sparta Full Day Tour
Isthmia, GR
100% of travellers recommend this
Highlights
- Experience the breathtaking views of the Corinth Canal
- Explore the archaeological sites of Sparta
- Learn about the history of olive oil production in Greece
- Discover the medieval ruins of Mystras
- Immerse yourself in the rich culture of ancient Greece
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Duration 12 to 13 hours
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Private transportation included
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Professional drivers included
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WiFi on board
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Bottled water provided
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Skip-the-line access
Experience the wonders of ancient Greece on the Sparta Full Day Tour. With our professional drivers and comfortable vehicles, you'll feel safe and at ease as you explore the archaeological sites of Corinth Canal, Sparta, and Mystras. Avoid the large tour buses and overcrowded attractions, allowing you to truly immerse yourself in the history and beauty of these monuments. Start your journey with a visit to the Corinth Canal, an engineering marvel that connects two seas and has a fascinating backstory spanning centuries. Then, explore the archaeological site of Sparta, where you'll discover ancient temples, theaters, and merchant stalls. Continue your adventure with a visit to the Archaeological Museum of Sparta, filled with artifacts spanning from the Neolithic to the Roman era. Lastly, marvel at the medieval ruins of Mystras, a Byzantine city steeped in rich history and culture. Don't miss this opportunity to unlock the secrets of ancient Greece on the Sparta Full Day Tour.
At a Glance
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Free cancellation
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12 hours
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Instant Confirmation
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Available in English
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Mobile voucher
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Private Tour
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Guided
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Family friendly
Featured Reviews
Explore ancient Sparta in a full-day private tour, enjoying skip-the-line access and expert drivers for an unforgettable journey through history.
Included
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Private transportation -
Professional Drivers (Not licensed to accompany you into the sites)
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On-board wifi
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Bottled water
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In-vehicle air conditioning
Excluded
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Local licensed tour guide (optional / 240 euros payable in cash). subject to availability. -
Airport pickup/drop-off on request (additional fee varies by vehicle type)
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Entrance fees
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Lunch
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Gratuities
Pickup
Check if pick-up is available from your location, you will select during checkout (providers may allow other pickup locations)
What to expect
The Full Day Sparta tour starts with a 45-mile drive along the National highway. We will reach the well-known Corinthian canal or else Isthmus canal that connects the Saronic Sea and the Corinthian Sea. The canal, though executed in the late 19th century, has been a 2000-year-old dream. Before its construction, ships in the Aegean Sea that wanted to cross to the Adriatic or anchor in Corinth, a rich shipping city, had to circle the Peloponnese, which would prolong their journey an extra 185 nautical miles. It is believed that Periander, the tyrant of Corinth (602 BC), was the first to conceive of the idea of digging the Corinth Canal. As the project was too complicated given the limited technical capabilities of the times, Periander constructed the diolkós, a stone road which allowed ships to be transferred on wheeled platforms. On 67 AD that Emperor Nero attempted the construction of the canal with a group of 6,000 slaves. But he was murdered before the plans were finalized. Finally, the construction of the canal came to an end at the last decade of the 19th century.
20 minutes
Continuing with a 2-hour drive through the mountains, in central Peloponnese, arriving at Sparta, a prominent city-state in Ancient Greece, situated on the banks of Eurotas River in Laconia, in the southeastern Peloponnese. Findings at this archaeological site were unearthed by the pioneer excavations of the British School of Archaeology starting in 1910. Excavations resumed in the early 1990’s, primarily in the areas of the ancient theatre and the merchant stalls. The most significant monuments of this archeological site include: The Temple of Athena Chalkioikos whose position has been defined by few surviving relics found at the northwest end of the Acropolis. The ancient theater of Sparta on the south side of the Acropolis is a product of the early Imperial Period. The orchestra, the retaining wall with engraved inscriptions of the rulers of Sparta in Roman times and the concave portion of the large theater has been preserved. The so-called Circular Building of Unknown Destination is a circular structure built of hewn blocks and smaller stones. The section that has been preserved, perhaps due to Roman repairs, seems to have been an important building in ancient Spartan life (the Skias). The remains of merchant stalls adjacent to the ancient theater discovered in recent excavations by the British School seem to be products of the Roman Imperial period. The relics of a grand Basilica of the mid Byzantine Era have been linked to the Basilica of Saint Nikon (10th century AD). Concluding the visit at the archaeological site of Sparta the traveler will continue with a visit at the archaeological museum of Sparta. The museum hosts thousands of findings from the province of Lacedaemon, along with those coming from other areas of the Laconian prefecture,which are not included in the archaeological collections of Gytheion and Neapolis Vion. The objects exhibited in its halls, cover the time period between the Neolithic and the Later Roman eras, while findings from the great sanctuaries of Sparta hold the most prominent position. The museum visitors will have the opportunity to admire retrieved material coming from the greater pre-historical sites of Laconia, sculptures dated from the Archaic to the Roman eras, found at various locations of the prefecture, along with artefacts from rescue excavations, the most important of which being the remains of Roman mosaic floors from Sparta. In addition, the museum exhibition includes a few but extremely valuable epigraphs,providing rare information on the history of the area.
120 minutes
Admission Not Included
The Museum of the Olive and Greek Olive Oil, in Sparta (Peloponnese), transports you to the culture, history and technology of the olive and olive oil production in the Greek realm, from prehistoric times to the early 20th century. The Museum of the Olive and Greek Olive Oil offers you the opportunity to see the very first testimonies about the presence of the olive tree and the production of olive oil in Greece. For each historical period the visitor will discover the contribution of the olive and olive oil to the economy and to everyday life: nutrition, body care, but also now outdated uses, such as lighting.
30 minutes
Admission Not Included
Mystras, the ‘wonder of the Morea’, developed down the hillside from the fortress built in 1249 by the prince of Achaia, William II of Villehardouin, at the top of a 620 m high hill overlooking Sparta. The Franks surrendered the castle to the Byzantines in 1262, it was the centre of Byzantine power in southern Greece, first as the base of the military governor and from 1348 as the seat of the Despotate of Morea. Captured by the Turks in 1460, it was occupied thereafter by them and the Venetians. After 1834 the inhabitants of Mystras gradually started to move to the modern town of Sparta leaving only the breath-taking medieval ruins, standing in a beautiful landscape. Many monasteries were founded there, including those of the Brontochion and the monastery of Christos Zoodotes (Christ the Giver of Life). Under the Despots, Mystras reached its zenith with the building of churches, outstanding examples of Late Byzantine church architecture, such as Hagioi Theodoroi (1290-1295), the Hodegetria (c. 1310), the Hagia Sophia (1350-1365), the Peribleptos (3rd quarter of the 14th century), the Evangelistria (late 14th – early 15th century) and the Pantanassa (c. 1430). The city was a major piece on the political chessboard of the time and was developed and beautified as befitted its role as a centre of power and culture. The city’s complex history is clearly evident in its fortifications, palaces, churches, convents, houses, streets and public squares. Mystras is a truly outstanding example of late Byzantine culture which influenced the rest of the Mediterranean world and beyond.
90 minutes
The experience can be subject to change due to bad weather or unforseen circumstances. We always endeavour to give you the best possible experience.
Additional Information
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Infant car seats are available upon request -
Infants and small children can ride in a pram or stroller
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Specialized infant seats are available
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Suitable for all physical fitness levels
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Your English- speaking driver will explain about the ancient monuments that you are about to visit, the ancient history of Greece and interesting facts about historical and modern-day Greece but is not allowed by law to accompany you in the sites. If you wish to have a licensed tour guide to accompany you into the sites, we will help you arrange a licensed tour guide to be with you at an extra cost
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Your tour is totally private. No unknown passengers will participate in your group.
What our experts say
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Visit Mystras for stunning views. -
Try local olives at nearby markets.
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Lunch at a local taverna in Sparta.
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Bring comfortable shoes for site visits.
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Check for local festivals during your visit.
More About this Experience
Introduction
Welcome to the Sparta Full Day Tour, where you'll embark on a journey through history and culture in the heart of Greece. This immersive tour promises an unforgettable experience, taking you to some of the most remarkable archaeological sites and museums in the region. Accompanied by our professional drivers, who are fluent in English and ensure your safety and comfort throughout the day, you'll have the chance to explore fascinating monuments at your own pace, away from the crowds.What to expect?
During this full-day tour, you can expect to uncover the ancient wonders of Sparta and its surroundings. From the moment we set off, our knowledgeable guide will transport you back in time, sharing captivating stories and insights about each site we visit. You'll start by crossing the Corinth Canal, a remarkable engineering feat that has connected the Saronic Sea and the Corinthian Sea for over a century. Next, you'll explore the archaeological site of Sparta, home to stunning ruins like the Temple of Athena Chalkioikos and the ancient theater. Afterward, you'll have the opportunity to visit the fascinating Museum of the Olive and Greek Olive Oil, where you'll learn about the cultural and historical significance of this staple ingredient throughout Greek history. Finally, we'll take you to Mystras, a UNESCO World Heritage site that will leave you in awe with its medieval ruins and breathtaking views.Who is this for?
The Sparta Full Day Tour is perfect for anyone with an interest in history, archaeology, and culture. Whether you're a history buff, a curious traveler, or simply someone seeking a unique and immersive experience, this tour is tailor-made for you. We welcome travelers of all ages and backgrounds, ensuring everyone can enjoy and learn from this enriching adventure. No matter if you're traveling solo, with a partner, or in a group, our professional drivers will make sure your needs are met, allowing you to fully immerse yourself in the wonders of Sparta.Why book this?
Booking the Sparta Full Day Tour is an opportunity to explore Greece's ancient past like never before. Unlike large tour buses and crowded excursions, our flexible service enables you to delve into the history of each site at your own pace. By visiting these incredible monuments during off-peak hours, you'll have the rare chance to fully appreciate their architectural grandeur and immerse yourself in their fascinating stories. Plus, our services come at a more affordable cost compared to larger tour companies, ensuring you get the most value out of your experience. So book now and embark on an unforgettable journey through the wonders of Sparta.Good to know
Throughout the Sparta Full Day Tour, it's important to dress comfortably and wear suitable footwear as you'll be exploring various archaeological sites and museums. Don't forget to bring sunscreen, a hat, and a refillable water bottle to stay hydrated under the Greek sun. Our knowledgeable guide will provide you with all the necessary information and insights, making sure you gain a deeper understanding of each site's historical significance. Be prepared for a day filled with mind-blowing discoveries and unforgettable memories.Reviews
Travelers who have embarked on the Sparta Full Day Tour have praised the flexibility of the itinerary and the in-depth knowledge of our guides. Visitors have been amazed by the lesser-known archaeological sites and the chance to explore them without the typical crowds. The Museum of the Olive and Greek Olive Oil has also been a highlight for many, offering a unique perspective on Greek history. Overall, individuals have expressed their satisfaction with the tour, emphasizing the outstanding experience, professional service, and exceptional value for money. Join us on the Sparta Full Day Tour and create your own unforgettable memories.
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