Erasmus student tour in Corinth-Mycenae-Nafplio-Epidaurus

Explore the Peloponnese: An 11-Hour Journey Through Ancient Greece for Young Travelers

This Erasmus student tour in Corinth-Mycenae-Nafplio-Epidaurus offers a fantastic way for young people and students from the EU to experience some of Greece’s most iconic archaeological sites and charming towns. Priced at $104 per person, the tour combines cultural discovery with affordability, making it an attractive choice for those eager to explore Greece’s past without overspending. The trip runs for 11 hours, with convenient pick-up options from central locations in Athens, and is limited to small groups of 8 participants, ensuring a more personal experience.

A significant highlight is the free entrance for EU travelers under 25 at the archaeological sites, which adds to the tour’s value. The guides are praised for their knowledgeable and friendly approach, making history accessible and engaging. However, the tour’s duration and pace suit those comfortable with a busy day packed with visits, walking, and some transportation. It’s perfect for young travelers who want a rundown of the Peloponnese’s highlights in one day.

You can check availability for your dates here:

Key Points

• Affordable price of $104 per person with free site entry for EU under 25s
• Visiting four major locations: Corinth, Mycenae, Nafplio, and Epidaurus
• Guides are praised for their knowledge and friendly demeanor
• Stops include the Corinth Canal, ancient Corinth, Mycenae’s palace, Nafplio’s scenic town, and Epidaurus theater
• Long but rewarding day, with 11 hours of sightseeing and travel
• Small group experience limited to 8 participants for more personal attention

Starting Point and Meeting Arrangements in Athens

The tour departs from Ermou 80, with convenient pickup options at Monastiraki Square, Syntagma Square, and Omonia Square. Guests are picked up in a comfortable van, which takes about 2 hours to reach the first stop, allowing travelers to relax and enjoy the scenery. The small group size promises a more tailored experience, with a friendly atmosphere led by experienced guides.

Corinth: The Wealthy Heart of Ancient Greece

The tour begins with a visit to the ancient city of Corinth, once considered the wealthiest city in Greece. The archaeological site encompasses notable features like the temple of Apollo and the Museum of Ancient Corinth, where visitors can see artifacts from the city’s long history.

A highlight is the Corinth Canal, a marvel of 19th-century engineering that connects the Aegean and Ionian Seas. The photo stop here offers stunning views of the narrow waterway, making it a favorite photo opportunity. The guide explains the historical significance of Corinth, from its role in conquering armies to its connections with Saint Paul, who lived and taught here.

Visiting the Mythical Kingdom of Mycenae

Next, the tour takes travelers to Ancient Mycenae, often called the “Rich in Gold” city. This Late Bronze Age palace is associated with legends like Agamemnon, as sung by Homer. The site features impressive Cyclopean masonry, enormous arch structures, and the “Tomb of Agamemnon”—also known as the Treasury of Atreus.

The famous architecture and fountains at Mycenae demonstrate the ancient Greeks’ engineering skills. The 1-hour visit offers a close look at one of Greece’s most significant archaeological complexes, revealing how ancient rulers built their power through monumental structures.

More Great Tours Nearby

Lunch and Free Time in Nafplio: Greece’s Romantic Capital

A highlight of the tour is the stop in Nafplio, one of Greece’s most picturesque and romantic towns. This seaside city served as Greece’s first capital from 1823 to 1834. According to myth, Nafplio was founded by Nafplios, son of Poseidon.

Visitors enjoy a 3-hour break for lunch, sightseeing, and strolling. Nafplio’s medieval walls, castles, Ottoman fountains, and neoclassical buildings are a feast for the eyes. The town’s architecture reflects a blend of Venetian, Frankish, and Ottoman influences, making it a living museum of historical layers. The relaxed atmosphere and scenic harbor views make Nafplio a favorite among travelers.

The Ancient Sanctuary of Epidaurus and Its Famous Theater

The tour concludes with a visit to Epidaurus, home to the great theater of Epidaurus, renowned for its outstanding acoustics and symmetrical design. The site was a sanctuary of Asclepius, the god of healing, and features temples, hospitals, and healing centers.

This site provides a glimpse into the transition from divine healing to scientific medicine, with its medical facilities and temples. The 1-hour visit allows travelers to appreciate both the architectural mastery and the spiritual significance of this ancient health center.

Return and Drop-Off in Athens

After exploring Epidaurus, the group boards the van for the return journey, which takes approximately 2.5 hours. The return to Ermou 80 in Athens concludes the day’s adventures, leaving travelers with lasting memories of Greece’s ancient and medieval past.

Included and Not Included in the Tour

The tour covers all entrance fees for EU travelers under 25 upon presentation of ID or passport, making it cost-effective. The price includes soda, lemonade, and water, ensuring hydration throughout the day. However, lunch is not included, giving participants the freedom to choose local options during the Nafplio stop, where they have free time to explore and eat.

What Sets This Tour Apart

This small group experience guarantees more personal attention from guides, who are praised for their expertise and friendliness. The price point is notably low considering the visits to four major sites and the free archaeological site entries for young Europeans. The itinerary is busy but well-organized, with enough time allocated for sightseeing, photos, and breaks.

The tour is ideal for young Erasmus students or travelers eager to see Greece’s most iconic archaeological sites without the hefty price tag. The expert guides make history engaging, and the scenic stops like the Corinth Canal and Nafplio’s streets provide picturesque moments.

Limitations to Consider

The long day may be demanding for some, especially with transportation time and walking at each site. The tour is not designed for those seeking leisure or a slow pace, so travelers should be prepared for a full-day schedule. Also, lunch is on your own, so budget planning is recommended for food options in Nafplio.

Final Thoughts on the Corinth-Mycenae-Nafplio-Epidaurus Tour

This affordable, well-organized tour offers a comprehensive snapshot of the Peloponnese’s historical gems. The expert guides and small group setting enhance the experience, making it suitable for young travelers and students eager to explore Greece’s ancient sites in a single day.

The combination of major archaeological sites, scenic towns, and historical insights provides excellent value, especially with free site entry for EU under 25s. The tour’s pacing and logistics are carefully managed, making it a practical choice for those wanting an in-depth yet manageable Greece adventure.

Frequently Asked Questions

Is this tour suitable for all fitness levels?
The tour involves walking around historical sites, some of which have uneven surfaces. Travelers should be comfortable with some walking and standing.

Do I need to bring my own lunch?
Yes, lunch is not included, but there is free time in Nafplio to explore local eateries and enjoy Greek cuisine.

Can I join if I am over 25?
The tour is specifically designed for young people and Erasmus students, with free archaeological site entry for those under 25 from EU countries. Over 25 travelers may not qualify for free site entry.

Are transportation and guides included?
Yes, transportation in a comfortable van and guides fluent in English are part of the package. The small group size ensures personalized attention.

What makes this tour stand out?
The cost-effective price, rich itinerary, and knowledgeable guides praised for making history lively make this tour a smart choice for young travelers wanting to explore Greece’s past in a single day.

You can check availability for your dates here: More Great Tours Nearby