Ancient Corinthos, Mycenae & Nafplio – Private Full Day Tour from Athens

Discover the Charm of Peloponnese on a Private Full-Day Tour from Athens

This private tour costs $636.25 per group (up to 3 people) and offers an 8-hour journey through some of Greece’s most iconic archaeological sites and charming seaside towns. Designed for those who prefer personalized attention and flexibility, the tour provides a dedicated vehicle, driver, and options to customize the itinerary. It departs from Athens, with pickup and drop-off included, making it convenient for travelers seeking a comprehensive and intimate experience.

The tour is highly rated with a perfect 5.0 out of 5 stars based on 6 reviews, reflecting consistent satisfaction. It is ideal for visitors who want a deeper understanding of Greece’s ancient history, combined with the chance to explore picturesque towns at a relaxed pace. The tour emphasizes quality over quantity, with safety protocols in place, especially considering recent Covid-19 precautions.

Key Points

• Private, fully customizable day trip focusing on Corinth, Mycenae, and Nafplio
• Cost of $636.25 for up to 3 people, with pickup, drop-off, WiFi, bottled water, and air-conditioned vehicle included
• Approximate duration of 8 hours, with flexible stops and personalized guidance
• Visits to major archaeological sites, including the Corinth Canal, Ancient Corinth, Mycenae, and Nafplio’s castles
• Ideal for travelers seeking a private, informative, and relaxed exploration of Peloponnese’s highlights
• Rated 5.0 based on 6 reviews, praised for knowledgeable guides and efficient site visits

Starting Point: Convenient Pickup and Private Transport

The tour begins with a pickup from your Athens accommodation or location. You travel in an air-conditioned vehicle, equipped with WiFi and bottled water, ensuring comfort throughout the day. This private setup allows for a personalized experience, avoiding crowded group tours and enabling easy adjustments based on your interests.

The driver is not only responsible for transportation but also provides local explanations and assistance during the excursions. The driver is not licensed to guide inside archaeological sites, so for detailed explanations inside the museums or ruins, optional guides are available at an extra cost.

Visiting the Corinth Canal: A Stunning Coastal Landmark

The journey kicks off with a scenic drive along the coastal highway towards Peloponnese. During this segment, you’ll pass through the Saronic Gulf area, known historically for the Naval Battle of Salamis in 480 B.C. This adds context to your sightseeing, connecting ancient history to today’s landscape.

Your first stop is at the Corinth Canal, a marvel of engineering that connects the Corinthian Gulf with the Saronic Gulf. This 15-minute stop offers a perfect photo opportunity of the narrow canal cutting across the Isthmus of Corinth. Admission is free, making it an effortless yet impressive stop.

Exploring Ancient Corinth: Ruins and Mythology

Next, the tour continues to Ancient Corinth, a site rich with archaeological significance. You will see the Temple of Apollo, built on a rocky hill, and walk through the Theatre and Roman Odeon. The Glauke fountain, carved into a natural rock, provides a glimpse into the daily life of ancient inhabitants.

The famous Vema (tribunal), where St. Paul preached to the Corinthians, is a notable highlight and adds a historical and biblical dimension to the visit. The site also features an archaeological museum displaying artifacts from the area, though entrance tickets are not included in the tour price.

This stop lasts about an hour, giving ample time for exploration and photos. It’s a practical choice for those interested in Greek mythology, early Christianity, and ancient architecture.

Mycenae: The Legendary Kingdom of King Agamemnon

The next major site is Mycenae, a UNESCO World Heritage site and one of Greece’s most famous archaeological locations. Known as the Kingdom of Agamemnon, this site features the Lions Gate, a striking entrance protected by massive stone sculptures.

Visitors explore the Cyclopean Walls, which demonstrate the impressive construction skills of prehistoric Greeks, and the Treasure of Atreus, also called Agamemnon’s Grave, a tholos tomb with a corbelled dome. The Subterranean Cistern provides insight into water management systems of ancient times.

You will also visit the archaeological museum at Mycenae, where artifacts from the site help bring the stories to life. This stop takes approximately two hours, perfect for soaking in the history and admiring the impressive ruins.

Nafplio: A Seaside Town with Castle Views

The journey continues to Nafplio, regarded as Greece’s first capital after the 1821 revolution. The town’s picturesque streets, with classical buildings and lively squares, make it a favorite among visitors.

In Nafplio, you can stroll through the old town, enjoy a meal or coffee in front of the Bourtzi Castle, which sits on a small island in the harbor. The Palamidi Castle, perched high above the town, offers panoramic views and a glimpse into medieval fortification strategies.

The two-hour visit allows time to explore the confluence of history, architecture, and seaside charm. The free access to the city and its outdoor sights makes this stop both enjoyable and budget-friendly.

Flexibility and Personalization of the Itinerary

One of the main advantages of this private tour is the ability to customize the day. The driver will try to accommodate your interests and needs, making it suitable for history buffs, photography enthusiasts, or leisure seekers. If you have specific sites or activities in mind, the driver can adapt the schedule accordingly.

Plus, the duration is approximately 8 hours, providing a relaxed pace that avoids rushing through the sites. The tour includes pickup and drop-off at your hotel or residence, ensuring a seamless experience.

Safety and Hygiene Measures: Prioritizing Your Well-being

Given recent health concerns, the tour emphasizes additional hygiene and safety protocols. The vehicle is regularly sanitized, and the driver follows personal hygiene measures to ensure a safe environment. This focus on safety instills confidence, especially in today’s travel climate.

Cost and Inclusions: What You Get for $636.25

The price covers a private, guided experience, with air-conditioning, WiFi, bottled water, and fuel included. The driver is not licensed to guide inside the archaeological sites, but guiding services are available at an extra cost if desired.

The tour also includes local taxes and pickup and drop-off at your accommodation or Piraeus Port. Not included are entrance fees for the sites and food and drinks, which are best enjoyed during your stops in Nafplio.

What the Reviews Say About This Tour

All six reviews praise the knowledgeable guides and the efficient site visits. Reviewers highlight the wealth of information provided by the driver, who shares stories and historical insights during the journey. Many appreciate the personalized approach, noting that the driver’s flexibility enhances the experience.

One reviewer describes the trip as “exciting” with a great storytelling style, while another emphasizes the excellent organization and site management. The high ratings reflect a consistent level of satisfaction, especially for those who value customized, intimate tours over crowded group excursions.

Who Should Consider This Tour?

This private full-day tour suits travelers who prefer a personalized experience, value expert insights, and want to avoid large groups. It’s ideal for history enthusiasts, photographers, and anyone interested in exploring key archaeological sites and scenic towns at a relaxed pace.

The tour’s cost reflects the exclusive nature and customization options, making it a good choice for those seeking quality over quantity. If you want a comprehensive and flexible day trip from Athens, this tour offers excellent value with a proven track record of positive reviews.

The Sum Up: A Well-Rounded Exploration of Peloponnese

This private tour from Athens offers a comprehensive glimpse into Greece’s ancient past and charming coastal towns, all within a comfortable and flexible framework. The stops at Corinth Canal, Ancient Corinth, Mycenae, and Nafplio showcase some of Greece’s most celebrated sites, with the added benefit of a dedicated driver who strives to meet your needs.

While entrance fees are not included, the tour’s personalized approach, knowledgeable driver, and scenic stops make it a worthwhile investment for those seeking an enriching and stress-free day. Its high ratings and positive feedback suggest it’s particularly suited for those who cherish expert guidance and tailored experiences.

Frequently Asked Questions

Is this tour suitable for children?
Yes, as long as the children are comfortable with walking and outdoor sightseeing, this tour can suit families. The pace is relaxed, and the car provides a comfortable way to travel between sites.

Can I customize the itinerary?
Absolutely. The driver will endeavor to accommodate your interests and wishes, making the experience more personal and flexible.

Are entrance fees included?
No, entrance tickets for archaeological sites and museums are not included in the price, so budget accordingly for these.

How long are the stops at each site?
Stops vary from about 15 minutes at Corinth Canal to two hours at Mycenae and Nafplio, allowing enough time for exploration and photos.

Is the tour wheelchair accessible?
The provided data does not specify accessibility details; it’s best to inquire directly if this is a concern.

What safety measures are in place?
The tour emphasizes increased hygiene protocols, with sanitized vehicles and responsible driver practices, to ensure safety.

Can I join this tour from Piraeus Port?
Yes, pickup and drop-off at Piraeus Port are included, making it convenient for cruise passengers.

Do I need a guide inside the archaeological sites?
Guided tours inside the sites are optional and available at an additional cost; the driver is not licensed to guide inside.

How far in advance should I book?
On average, the tour is booked about 119 days ahead, but early reservation is recommended, especially during peak seasons.

What makes this tour stand out?
Its private, customizable nature, combined with high-quality service and knowledgeable drivers, sets it apart from standard group excursions.