Footsteps of Apostle Paul from Athens to Corinth, Private Day Tour

Following in the footsteps of St. Paul, this private day tour from Athens offers a compelling glimpse into biblical history and ancient Greece over 7 to 8 hours. Priced at $271.70 per person, the tour is designed for those who want a personalized experience, with pickup from Athens hotels or port included. The tour covers key archaeological sites, significant locations for biblical events, and stunning views, all led by an experienced, knowledgeable driver who provides commentary throughout the journey. Many travelers book this tour approximately 70 days in advance, reflecting its popularity among those eager to explore Athens and Corinth at their own pace.

A major strength of this tour is its private format, allowing flexibility and personal attention. Visitors are particularly impressed by the guide’s depth of knowledge, the convenience of skip-the-line tickets, and the opportunity to see multiple historic sites in one day. While the itinerary is comprehensive, it involves considerable walking at some sites and includes optional entrance fees, which are not included in the base price.

This tour is ideal for biblical history enthusiasts, families, or visitors seeking an enriching, customized experience. It offers a well-paced schedule that balances cultural exploration with comfort, making it suitable for most travelers who want a detailed insight into Apostle Paul’s journeys and the ancient landmarks of Athens and Corinth.

Key Points

• Private, personalized experience with an expert driver and optional licensed guide
• Visits to iconic sites: Areopagus, Ancient Agora, Corinth Canal, Ancient Corinth, and more
• Includes transfers from Athens hotels, Piraeus port, or residence
• Cost per person is $271.70, with skip-the-line tickets available
• Tour duration is approximately 7 to 8 hours, ideal for a full-day exploration
• Rated 5.0 based on 44 reviews, with full recommendation

Discover the Areopagus and its Biblical Significance

The Areopagus rock in Athens serves as the first stop of this tour. Historically, it was once the council and court of Athens, used for judicial and political purposes since pre-classical times. During Roman times, the Apostle Paul is said to have given a famous speech from this location, highlighting its religious and cultural importance.

Today, visitors can stand on this prominent outcrop, imagining the ancient debates and the biblical event where Paul addressed the Athenians. The admission is free, and the site offers great views of the city. The guide explains the significance of the altar to the Unknown God and the connection to early Christian preaching.

Exploring the Heart of Ancient Athens at the Agora

Next, the tour takes you to the Ancient Agora of Athens, the political, social, and religious center of ancient Greece. This site, used continuously from the Late Neolithic period through to the 6th century AD, was where Apostle Paul preached Christianity for the first time to Greeks in 51 A.D..

Visitors will find ruins of temples, public buildings, and a vibrant marketplace. Although entrance fees are not included, the sit is rich in history, and the guide offers insights into the daily life and political debates that took place here.

The Temple of Olympian Zeus, a short walk away, once housed one of the most magnificent statues of Zeus. Built between 124-132 AD, only a few columns remain today, but the site’s grandeur still impresses.

Visiting the Panathenaic Stadium and Its Olympic Legacy

The Panathenaic Stadium, originally a natural hollow, was rebuilt in 330-329 BC for the Panathenaic Games. Its horseshoe shape and restored seating hold stories of ancient athletic contests and later Olympic events. The stadium could seat around 50,000 spectators, making it one of the most iconic sports venues in Greece.

Visitors can walk along the ancient track and imagine the crowds cheering during historic games. The guide highlights its role in modern Olympic history, as it hosted the first modern Olympic Games in 1896.

Syntagma Square and the Tomb of the Unknown Soldier

The tour then proceeds to Syntagma Square, the bustling heart of Athens. Here, the Tomb of the Unknown Soldier is guarded 24/7 by the Evzones, a striking sight and a popular photo opportunity.

At Constitution Square, travelers can observe the Changing of the Guard ceremony, a traditional spectacle that offers insight into Greek national pride. The square is also home to the Hellenic Parliament and nearby landmarks like the Academy of Athens and the National Library.

Corinth Canal and the Ancient City of Corinth

Leaving Athens behind, the tour visits the Corinth Canal, an impressive ancient engineering feat. Spanning 6.3 km, the canal connects the Gulf of Corinth with the Saronic Gulf, transforming the peninsula into an island and saving ships a long journey around the Peloponnese.

The guide points out the walls towering at 170 feet, emphasizing the canal’s strategic and navigational importance. The admission is free, and the stop lasts 30 minutes.

Next, the Ancient Corinth site offers a deep dive into biblical history. Apostle Paul resided here for eighteen months around AD 49-50, preaching and working as a tentmaker. The trial of Paul presided over by Gallio in AD 51/52 provides a key chronological anchor for biblical studies. Visitors can explore ruins of the marketplace, the Bema, and the nearby church with mosaic art, as well as climb to a mountain top castle for panoramic views of the seas.

Kechries and the Port of Paul’s Departure

The tour concludes at Kechries, the ancient port from where St. Paul sailed to Ephesus. This site complements the narrative of Paul’s travels and provides a final scenic moment before returning to Athens.

Logistics and Private Service Advantages

This tour includes pickup from Athens hotels or Piraeus port, ensuring a smooth start to the day. The luxurious vehicle is fully air-conditioned, non-smoking, and suited for the group’s size. Travelers can request child seats or service animals are welcome.

The private nature of the tour means a flexible schedule, with the driver providing commentary in fluent English. While the driver does not enter archaeological sites, options are available to hire a licensed guide at an extra cost for in-depth site exploration.

What’s Included and What’s Not

Included in the price are parking fees, VAT, state taxes, and skip-the-line tickets for certain sites. The tour does not include entrance fees to the Agora or Corinth archaeological sites, nor does it include food and drinks unless specified. The customizable itinerary allows the driver to adjust timing based on crowd levels.

Positive Aspects Highlighted by Past Travelers

Reviews emphasize the knowledgeable guides, especially noting driver’s expertise and friendliness. Many call this the highlight of their trip with descriptions of emotional moments at sites like Corinth. Travelers appreciate flexible scheduling, the comfortable ride, and the opportunity to see less accessible locations like the mountain top castle.

The customization and attention to timing help avoid crowds and make the experience more meaningful. The tour is described as well-organized, informative, and family-friendly.

Considerations and Limitations

Although the tour is comprehensive, entrance fees are extra if visitors wish to explore certain sites more thoroughly. Some reviews note that the driver is not a licensed guide, so for detailed historical or biblical explanations, hiring an additional licensed guide is recommended. The walking at certain archaeological sites may be physically demanding for some travelers.

Overall Value and Suitability

Combining historical landmarks, biblical sites, and scenic views, this tour offers good value for those interested in religious history, archaeology, and Greek culture. The private setup makes it especially appealing for families, groups, or anyone seeking a tailored experience.

While it involves a full day’s commitment, the professional driver and flexible schedule make for a manageable and enriching journey. The high review ratings reflect its strength as a well-organized, insightful tour that brings Apostle Paul’s journeys and ancient Athens vividly to life.

Frequently Asked Questions

Does this tour include guides inside the archaeological sites?
No, the driver provides commentary en-route but does not enter sites. Private licensed guides can be arranged for an additional fee.

Are entrance fees included in the price?
No, entrance fees for sites like the Agora and Ancient Corinth are not included. Skip-the-line tickets can be purchased in advance, and some stops have free admission.

What is the tour’s duration and start time?
The tour starts at 8:00 am and lasts approximately 7 to 8 hours, making it a full-day experience.

Is this tour suitable for families or children?
Yes, the tour is family-friendly with options for child seats and flexible scheduling to suit children’s needs.

Can I customize the itinerary or timing?
Yes, the private nature of the tour allows adjustments based on your interests, crowd levels, and timing preferences.

How do I confirm booking and cancellations?
Booking is confirmed upon reservation, with free cancellation available up to 24 hours in advance. Cancellations made less than 24 hours before are non-refundable.

This Footsteps of Apostle Paul from Athens to Corinth tour combines biblical history, ancient landmarks, and scenic vistas into a memorable private experience suited for those eager to explore Greece’s spiritual and archaeological heritage at their own pace.