5.0(4 reviews)
Ancient Messene Private Tour from Athens
From€213.5
8 hours
Athens, Greece
About this activity
Experience the rich history of Ancient Messene on a private tour from Athens, exploring its well-preserved ruins and landmarks.
Highlights
- Explore Ancient Messene's well-preserved ruins
- Visit the impressive theater and stadium
- Discover the Temple of Asclepius
- Wander through the ancient agora
- Enjoy scenic views of the surrounding mountains
Full description
Step back in time and immerse yourself in the ancient world with a private tour to Ancient Messene. Departing from Athens, you'll journey to this remarkable archaeological site, renowned for its exceptional preservation and historical significance. Led by an expert guide, you'll explore the grand theater, the expansive stadium, and the sacred Temple of Asclepius. Wander through the ancient agora, where commerce and daily life once thrived, and marvel at the intricate architecture that has stood the test of time. Along the way, enjoy scenic views of the surrounding mountains, adding a picturesque backdrop to your historical adventure. This tour offers a personalized experience, allowing you to delve deep into the history and culture of one of Greece's most significant ancient cities.
Included / Excluded
- Private transportation from Athens to Ancient Messene
- Guided tour of Ancient Messene archaeological site
- Hotel pickup and drop-off in Athens
- Meals and beverages
Itinerary
1
This tour will give you an excellent taste of Peloponnese countryside combining ancient Messene, one of the best excavated archaeological sites in Greece. We will begin with a drive along the coast. On the way, you will view some Greek seaside villages and the island of Salamis (where the historical naval battle took place between the Athenians and the Persians). Our first stop the Corinth Canal. Opened in 1892 separating the Peloponnese peninsula from the rest of Greece and connecting the Saronic Gulf to the Corinthian Sea. You will have time to walk across on a pedestrian bridge to admire the canal closer.
Duration: 15 minAdmission: NOT_APPLICABLE
2
The remains of this vast ancient city are as extensive as those of Olympia and Epidavros, yet Ancient Messini receives only a fraction of their visitors. Picturesquely situated on a hillside below the village of Mavromati and still undergoing excavation, the site comprises a large theatre, an agora (marketplace), a sizeable Sanctuary of Asclepius and one of the most impressive Ancient Greek stadiums. Entry includes the small museum at the site turn-off; don't miss the impressive Arcadian Gate 800m beyond, either.
Duration: 40 minAdmission: NO
3
The remains of this tremendous ancient city are complete with a grand ancient stadium, an Ancient Agora, an ancient theatre with a capacity of up to ten thousand spectators, and a fountain house. It is so well-maintained that you can easily envision the city in all of its glory.
Duration: 50 minAdmission: NO
4
Kalamata is the second most populous city of the Peloponnese peninsula, after Patras, in southern Greece and the largest city of the homonymous administrative region. The capital and chief port of the Messenia regional unit, it lies along the Nedon River at the head of the Messenian Gulf. Kalamata is renowned as the land of the Kalamatianos dance and Kalamata olives.
Duration: 1 hourAdmission: NOT_APPLICABLE
5
Pass by: We will drive back to Athens.
Admission: NOT_APPLICABLE
Important information
Know before you book
- This is a private tour; the price is per group, not per person.
- Hotel pickup and drop-off are included; please provide your accommodation details upon booking.
- The tour is conducted in English; ensure you understand the language for a full experience.
Know before you go
- Wear comfortable walking shoes suitable for uneven terrain.
- Bring a hat and sunscreen to protect against the sun.
- Carry a bottle of water to stay hydrated during the tour.
Cancellation policy
Free cancellation up to 1 days before the activity starts
For a full refund, cancel at least 24 hours before the scheduled departure time.
Accessibility
- Wheelchair Accessible
- Stroller Accessible
- Infant Seats Available
Good to know
- The drivers are not licensed to accompany you inside any site or museum. If you require a licensed guide to tour the sites with you, you need to hire one additionally. If you have any questions you can contact us on the phone number provided by Viator.
- The duration of the tours is approximate, the exact duration will depend on the time of day and traffic conditions.
Traveler reviews
5.04 reviews
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Excellent tour guide and driver!
Excellent experience with Tolis. He was knowledgeable, engaging and considerate throughout the entire day. I don’t have a negative thing to say.
Stacey PApr 12, 2026TRIPADVISOR
Excellent.
Perfect day. Itinerary permitted us to see so much of Athens and Greek culture in one day. Tolis was a perfect guide. Really nice guide and very knowledgeable. Great lunch experience provided. Highly recommend. Ask for Tolis!
Quest555196Apr 10, 2026TRIPADVISOR
Manos (The Greek) The perfect Greece Tour Guide.
Our Driver and tour guide Manos (The Greek)! Was amazing. Very knowledgeable. Made our tour amazing. He was so passionate about his country and making sure we knew the history about it. I don’t think you could have found a better tour guide. He gave us plenty of time to explore the sights. Shared so much information about the area. Lunch spot was perfect. Amazing meal. If you want an amazing guide please use Manos (The Greek). You will be amazed.
Michael LMar 30, 2026TRIPADVISOR
Manners made our tour of Athens, exceptional. I’m in congratulate him and I would recommend them to any other tourist.
Explained entire tour very knowledgeable and helpful
starman395Mar 29, 2026TRIPADVISOR
Additional information
The drivers are not licensed to accompany you inside any site or museum. If you require a licensed guide to tour the sites with you, you need to hire one additionally. If you have any questions you can contact us on the phone number provided by Viator.
The duration of the tours is approximate, the exact duration will depend on the time of day and traffic conditions.