Ancient Corinth Full Day Private Tour Including Lunch

This full-day private tour from Athens to Ancient Corinth offers an engaging journey through some of Greece’s most iconic historical sites. Priced at $247.27 per person, the tour lasts about 8 hours and includes luxury transportation, a local guide, and a delicious Greek lunch. With 7 reviews rating it a perfect 5.0 out of 5, this experience is highly praised for its knowledgeable guide Paddy, scenic stops, and overall value. The tour departs from Athens, with flexible pickup options, making it accessible for various travelers, including those arriving by air or cruise.

While the tour does not include entry tickets to the monuments, the detailed commentary and scenic stops make it a compelling option for history enthusiasts and curious travelers. Its luxury cars—Mercedes E-class, Minivan, or Sprinter—ensure comfort throughout the day. The personalized nature of a private tour allows for a relaxed pace and tailored experience, ideal for visitors who want to explore at their own speed.

Key Points

• Price and Duration: Priced at $247.27 per person for approximately 8 hours.
• Luxury Transportation: Travel in Mercedes-Benz vehicles—E-class, Minivan, or Sprinter—based on group size.
• Cultural Highlights: Visit Corinth Canal, Ancient Corinth, Acrocorinth, Moni Osiou Patapiou, and Heraion of Perachora.
• Includes Lunch: Enjoy Greek grilled meats with pork and chicken, a Greek salad, and a soft drink or beer or wine.
• Expert Guidance: Led by local guides with extensive knowledge, though guides are not licensed to enter monuments.
• Highly Rated: 5-star reviews praising Paddy’s storytelling, scenic stops, and overall experience.

Starting in Athens: Pickup and Flexibility

The tour begins with pickup services inside Athens, which can be arranged from any location within the region. For travelers arriving at Athens airport or cruise docks, the tour start time is based on the first pickup, accommodating flight delays or ship arrivals. The flexibility extends to customized pickup points, making the experience convenient for diverse travel itineraries.

The private nature of the tour means only your group participates, providing a tailored experience free from crowds. The driver not only transports but also offers local guiding services, sharing insights about each stop along the way.

Explore the Corinth Canal: Narrow Wonder

The tour kicks off at the Corinth Canal, an engineering marvel that connects the Aegean Sea with the Ionian Sea. Its 20-minute visit allows for photos and appreciation of this narrow waterway that slices through the Isthmus of Corinth.

While the canal itself has free admission, its impressive length and strategic importance make it a must-see for anyone interested in Greek infrastructure and maritime history. Its scenic setting offers great photo opportunities and a sense of the engineering prowess of ancient and modern Greece.

Discover Ancient Corinth: Ruins and History

Next, the Ancient Corinth stands as the core highlight of the tour. This city-state on the Isthmus was once a powerful polis, situated roughly halfway between Athens and Sparta. The visit lasts about one hour, during which the guide shares insights into its archaeological remains and stories from its past.

While admission tickets to the site are not included, the exterior ruins and the view of the ancient city provide a rich context for understanding Greek history. Visitors appreciate the guide’s commentary, which brings the site’s mythological and historical significance to life.

Marvel at Acrocorinth: The Monolithic Fortress

The Acrocorinth dominates the landscape as the acropolis of ancient Corinth. The 50-minute stop involves exploring this monolithic rock that served as a fortress and refuge for centuries. The free admission allows visitors to walk along the ramparts and enjoy panoramic views of the area.

This site offers a mix of archaeological ruins and breathtaking scenery, providing insight into Greece’s military history. The elevation also means visitors should be prepared for some walking, but the views are well worth the effort.

Visit Moni Osiou Patapiou: The Monastery and Miracles

The Moni Osiou Patapiou provides a spiritual and cultural stop. This monastery, dedicated to Saint Patapios, is renowned for the miracles attributed to the saint, particularly related to dropsy. The 40-minute visit offers a glimpse into religious life and local traditions, with the large library of historical archives documenting the saint’s miracles.

Admission to the monastery is free, and travelers appreciate the peaceful atmosphere and the chance to learn about local religious practices. The guide shares stories of the saint’s miracles, enriching the cultural experience.

Explore the Heraion of Perachora: Sanctuary of Hera

The Heraion of Perachora is a small cove sanctuary dedicated to the goddess Hera, situated in a picturesque setting on the Perachora peninsula. The 40-minute stop involves exploring the ancient sanctuary and soaking in views of the Corinthian Gulf.

This site’s free admission and scenic location make it a highlight for those interested in Greek mythology and religious sites. The peaceful cove setting adds a tranquil touch to the day’s itinerary.

Return to Athens: The Final Leg at Athinais

The tour concludes at Athinais, a location in Athens, after about 1 hour 30 minutes of exploration. The drive back allows for reflection on the day’s highlights and offers time for questions with the guide.

This final stop provides a broader perspective on Greek history beyond the ancient sites, wrapping up the experience with some insight into modern Greek culture. The flexible timing ensures a relaxed end to the day.

The Lunch Experience: Greek Grill and Local Flavors

A key feature of this tour is the included lunch, which takes place at a local restaurant owned by the tour operator. Guests enjoy grilled pork and chicken, accompanied by a Greek salad and a soft drink, beer, or wine.

The lunch menu offers a satisfying taste of authentic Greek cuisine, and the restaurant’s local ownership ensures a genuine experience. The per person inclusion makes this a convenient and tasty break during the day’s sightseeing.

Transport and Comfort: Luxury Vehicles for Every Group

The private tour provides luxury Mercedes-Benz vehicles tailored to group size: E-class for 1-4 passengers, Minivan for 5-8, and Sprinter for 9-15 travelers. The bottled water provided adds to the comfort.

Travel in these well-maintained, comfortable vehicles ensures a smooth journey between stops, while the chauffeur offers local insights. The luxury aspect elevates the experience beyond typical coach tours.

Reviews Highlight Paddy’s Expertise and Scenic Stops

The reviews consistently praise Paddy for his knowledgeable storytelling and engaging presentation. Travelers appreciate the scenic views, the well-paced itinerary, and the value offered by this private experience.

One reviewer mentions that Paddy “went above and beyond,” making the tour absolutely amazing. The attention to detail and personalized service appear to be key strengths.

The Sum Up: A Well-Rounded Day of Cultural Exploration

This Ancient Corinth Full Day Private Tour offers a comprehensive look at Greece’s ancient sites combined with scenic views, cultural insights, and authentic cuisine. Its private format ensures a relaxed pace and personalized attention, ideal for those who prefer comfort over crowds.

While the tour does not include monument entry tickets, the expert guidance, luxury transport, and delicious lunch make it excellent value for history lovers and those seeking a flexible, comfortable day trip from Athens.

This tour is particularly suited for travelers who appreciate knowledgeable guides, scenic stops, and the convenience of private transport. It provides a balanced blend of history, culture, and comfort, making it a smart choice for anyone eager to explore Greece’s legendary sites.

Frequently Asked Questions

Is the tour suitable for all ages?
Yes, most travelers can participate, but be prepared for walking at sites like Acrocorinth, which involves some elevation.

Are tickets to the monuments included?
No, tickets are not included. Visitors should budget additional funds if they wish to enter specific sites.

What vehicles are used for transportation?
The tour uses Mercedes-Benz vehicles—E-class, Minivan, or Sprinter—depending on group size.

Can pickups be arranged anywhere in Athens?
Yes, pickups can be scheduled from any location within Athens, including the airport or cruise docks.

Is the lunch menu customizable?
The lunch includes grilled pork and chicken, Greek salad, and a soft drink, beer, or wine; customization details are not specified.

What is the cancellation policy?
Free cancellation is available up to 24 hours before the tour, with a full refund.

Are guides licensed to enter the monuments?
No, guides provide local guiding services but are not licensed to guide inside monuments or historical sites.

How far in advance should I book?
On average, bookings are made 185 days in advance, suggesting a high demand for this popular tour.

What should I bring?
Comfortable walking shoes, sun protection, and a camera are recommended to enjoy the scenic and archaeological stops.

Is there any special consideration for travelers with health restrictions?
Yes, travelers are advised to inform the operator of any health restrictions after booking to ensure suitable arrangements.