On the Peloponnese shores stands the little seaside town of Katakolon, Greece, an MSC Mediterranean cruises destination. Situated on a headland overlooking the blue Ionian Sea, this charming location boasts a lighthouse, the Agios Nicolaos Church, and musical instruments museum. A short ride away lies the ancient site of Olympia, the extraordinary UNESCO World Heritage Site. 3000 years ago, it hosted Greece’s first Olympic Games in its Panhellenic religious sanctuary.
 
MSC Cruises excursions offer plenty of exciting things to see including:
 
• Olympia, Folklore Show and Tasting
• Olympia and its Museum
• Magna Grecia Estate and Olympia in 3D
 
Explore the fascinating world of Greek mythology on an MSC Cruises excursion to the archaeological site of Olympia. This is one of the most significant places in Greece’s history, settled in the hilly region of the river Alfeiós. Visit the remains of the Temple of Zeus, the gymnasium, the hippodrome, and the great stadium which seated up to 45,000 spectators. Then, in the town, enjoy a delicious meal and a typical folklore show in an authentic local restaurant. 
 
For a truly immersive experience, choose an MSC Cruises excursion that also stops at the Archaeological Museum of Olympia. This cultural hub displays an extraordinary selection of elaborate sculptures, terracotta artefacts, and beautiful mosaics, discovered during the site’s excavation. See sculptures of Pelops in a chariot race, Lapiths, Centaurs, and The Labours of Hercules from the temple of Zeus. The museum also comprises a fantastic book and souvenir shop offering plenty of keepsakes and gifts. 
 
Take an MSC Cruises excursion to the Magna Grecia Estate which is a short coach-drive past the charming villages surrounding Katakolon. Explore the vineyards, see the farm animals, and savour some meze appetisers with a glass of regional wine. Next, visit extraordinary Olympia, where you’ll imagine what the games site looked like back in 8th-century B.C. At the museum, be entertained by a virtual 3D reconstruction of Olympia during its most magnificent period in history.

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