Full Day Private Ancient Corinth and Athens Must See Tour

This full-day private tour offers an engaging way to see both Athens’ top sights and the historic city of Corinth for $343.92 per person. It lasts approximately 9 hours, making it ideal for travelers who want a rundown without the hassle of public transit or long walks. The tour includes pickup services, a luxury Mercedes vehicle, and a personal driver, allowing for a smooth experience with enough flexibility to skip long lines and customize the itinerary.

The highlight is the private guide, who leads you through key archaeological sites, while the driver handles transportation. This setup makes it suitable for those who prefer a relaxed, personalized approach to sightseeing. The tour is highly rated, with a perfect 5-star score from 8 reviews, reflecting consistent satisfaction among previous participants. Keep in mind that entrance fees are not included, and guided tour options are available at an additional cost.

Key Points

• Private 9-hour Athens and Corinth tour for $343.92 per person, with pickup included
• Visit major sites like the Acropolis, Ancient Corinth, and Corinth Canal
• Expert driver and optional guide ensure smooth navigation and insightful commentary
• Highlights include the Parthenon, Temple of Apollo, and the Corinth Canal
• Tour designed for convenience, skipping long walks and public transit
• Not including entrance fees, which are available as add-ons

Explore Athens’ Iconic Monuments with Ease

This tour begins with two hours at the Acropolis, where you see the Parthenon, Propylaea, Erechtheion, and Temple of Athena Nike. The Acropolis is one of Athens’ most recognizable landmarks, and this private visit allows you to take in its splendor without the crowds or the need for extensive walking. The guide offers insights into each monument’s history, making the experience both educational and inspiring.

From the Acropolis, the tour includes a driving tour of Athens lasting around two hours. You’ll pass Hadrian’s Arch, the Temple of Olympian Zeus, Syntagma Square, and witness the changing of the guard at the Hellenic Parliament. This combination of sites provides a well-rounded view of Athens’ ancient and modern layers, all without long, tiring walks.

Visiting the Ancient City of Corinth

The first stop on the trip is Ancient Corinth, a city that once played a crucial role in Greece’s history. Here, visitors can explore ruins of the old city, including the Temple of Apollo—one of Greece’s oldest temples, dating back to the 6th century B.C. The site offers a glimpse into ancient Greek architecture and the city’s past significance, especially as a location where the Apostle Paul established a church.

While admission tickets for the site are not included, the visitors will have around two hours to walk through the ruins and appreciate the historical surroundings. They can also view the Corinth Canal from a scenic stop along the coast, a remarkable engineering achievement connecting the Gulf of Corinth with the Saronic Gulf. This narrow 6.4 km canal, completed in 1893, symbolizes Greece’s long-standing ambition for maritime connection and modern engineering.

The Corinth Canal as a Marvel of Engineering

The drive along the coast culminates with a brief stop at the Corinth Canal, a 10-minute visit that offers great photo opportunities. The canal’s construction at sea level required no locks, making it a significant feat at the time. It separates the Peloponnese from the Greek mainland and is considered one of Greece’s notable engineering accomplishments.

The canal’s width at its base measures just 21.4 meters, allowing only smaller ships to pass through today. The construction period from 1880 to 1893 was lengthy, but the canal’s existence was a dream for shipowners for over 2000 years. Visitors appreciate this quick stop for its historical importance and impressive construction.

Visiting the Temple of Olympian Zeus and the Panathenaic Stadium

Back in Athens, the tour takes you to the Temple of Olympian Zeus, a colossal structure that took 638 years to complete, from the 6th century B.C. during the rule of Athenian tyrants, to its dedication during Emperor Hadrian’s reign in the 2nd century A.D. The remains of 104 massive columns showcase its former grandeur, and it remains a powerful symbol of Athens’ ancient religious architecture.

Next, the Panathenaic Stadium invites you to step onto the only stadium built entirely of marble. Originally constructed around 330 B.C., it hosted the Zappas Olympics in 1870 and 1875, and was the main site of the 1896 first modern Olympics. The stadium also hosted events in 2004, emphasizing its continued importance. The 10-minute visit allows you to appreciate its historical significance and architecture.

Climbing Mount Lycabettus for Aerial Views

A highlight of the city tour segment is a brief stop at Mount Lycabettus, a 300-meter limestone hill offering panoramic views of Athens. Pine trees at its base add to the scenic atmosphere, and from the two peaks, you can see the city sprawled below. The visit lasts about 10 minutes and is free, making it an easy addition for travelers eager for a scenic overlook.

On the hill, you’ll find the Chapel of St. George, a theater, and a restaurant, perfect for taking a moment to soak in the city’s skyline and enjoy some photos.

Experiencing the Changing of the Guards

One of the most iconic moments in Athens’ ceremonial life is the Changing of the Guard at the Tomb of the Unknown Soldier in Syntagma Square. The Evzones, an elite Greek army unit, perform this precise and traditional ceremony every hour, showcasing their distinctive fustanella skirt and pom-pom shoes. The 10-minute event is a striking display of Greek patriotism and tradition, highly appreciated for its cultural significance.

Visiting the Arch of Hadrian (Arco Di Adriano)

The Arch of Hadrian, also known as Hadrian’s Gate, is a grand Roman triumphal arch erected to honor Emperor Hadrian‘s arrival and contributions to Athens. Built in the 2nd century, it features inscriptions naming both Theseus and Hadrian as founders of Athens. The 5-minute stop here offers great views of this monumental gateway, highlighting Athens’ layered history from ancient Greece to Roman influence.

Logistics and Included Amenities

This private tour employs a Mercedes air-conditioned vehicle and includes WiFi and cold mineral water for comfort. The English-speaking driver ensures smooth transportation, although guides are not included but can be booked separately. The tour offers flexibility to skip lines and customize the itinerary, providing a personalized experience.

The tour accommodates up to eight people but is bookable for larger groups via phone. Entrance fees and guide services are not included but can be purchased at an extra cost, offering options for those interested in deeper engagement with each site.

Why Choose This Tour?

The full-day private setup combines urban exploration, historical sites, and scenic views in a relaxed, personalized manner. Previous reviews consistently praise the knowledgeable guides, driver professionalism, and the comfort of the vehicle. Many mention that the tour exceeds expectations, especially highlighting the efficient pacing and stunning scenery.

The flexibility to customize the itinerary and the skip-the-line options make this a convenient choice for travelers who value time and comfort. It is particularly well-suited for those who want an all-in-one experience that covers Athens’ most important landmarks and the ancient city of Corinth.

Full Day Private Ancient Corinth and Athens Must See Tour (Athens, Greece)

This 9-hour tour offers a comprehensive, luxury experience to explore Athens’ historic sites and Corinth’s archaeological treasures. Priced at $343.92, it combines expert transportation, individualized attention, and access to key landmarks like the Acropolis, Temple of Olympian Zeus, and Corinth Canal. It’s highly rated for its quality and customer satisfaction, with 8 reviews confirming its value.

Ideal for those who appreciate comfort, flexibility, and expert guidance without the crowds. Be prepared for additional costs for entrance tickets and optional guides, but the overall experience promises a memorable, enriching day in Greece.

Frequently Asked Questions

Is this tour suitable for all ages?
Yes, the tour is designed for most travelers, with minimal walking required thanks to the private vehicle and driver. However, those with mobility issues should consider the site-specific demands.

Are entrance fees included?
No, entrance fees are not included but can be purchased separately. The tour provides skip-the-line options at an additional cost.

Can the itinerary be customized?
Yes, the tour allows customization to skip lines or focus on specific sites, thanks to the personalized guide and driver.

What should I bring?
Comfortable shoes are recommended, along with sun protection and water, especially because some sites involve walking in hot weather.

How far in advance should I book?
Most bookings are made around 191 days in advance, ensuring availability for this popular private tour.

What is the group size?
The tour is private, accommodating up to 8 people, with larger groups available upon request.

This full-day private tour provides an excellent way to experience Athens’ key attractions and ancient Corinth with convenience, comfort, and insightful commentary. It’s an appealing choice for history enthusiasts and luxury travelers seeking a hassle-free, personalized adventure.