Private Tour of Blue Lake, Temple of Hera, Mycenae, Corinth & Isthmus Canal from Athens

Explore Greece’s Ancient and Natural Wonders in a Private Day Trip

This private tour from Athens offers a seamless way to visit some of Greece’s most iconic sites in just 9 hours. For $322.67 per person, travelers enjoy door-to-door transport in a private luxury vehicle, led by a knowledgeable driver-guide. The tour covers Mycenae, famous for its Bronze Age treasures, the Corinth Canal, the Hera Sanctuary at Perachora, and the Blue Lake, where a refreshing swim awaits. Its carefully curated itinerary makes it ideal for those craving cultural richness without the hassle of planning logistics or managing large groups.

Many reviews highlight the friendly, expert guides who keep the day engaging and informative. The tour’s flexibility with pick-up and drop-off at your Athens hotel enhances convenience, making it a good choice for travelers seeking a personalized experience. The long drive is balanced by comfortable transportation and plenty of stops, though it requires some patience. This tour fits well for those wanting to explore key archaeological sites and natural beauty in a single day, without sacrificing comfort.

Key Points

• Private, fully personalized tour with door-to-door service from Athens
• Visits to Mycenae, Corinth Canal, Hera Sanctuary, and Blue Lake
• Around 9 hours in duration, with luxury transport and WiFi on board
• Expert driver-guides provide in-depth historical context
• Entry fees to sites are not included, but skip-the-line options are available
• Suitable for most travelers, including those with pets or mobility needs

Comfortable, Private Transportation with Onboard Amenities

This tour features luxury private transport that picks you up directly from your Athens hotel or port, ensuring a smooth start to the day. The vehicle includes WiFi and bottled water, keeping you comfortable during the drive. The private nature of the tour means only your group participates, allowing for a flexible schedule and personalized interaction with the guide. The driver-guide is fluent in English and knowledgeable about Greek history and local stories.

The drive between sites is longer than in group tours, but the well-maintained vehicle and amenities help make the journey pleasant. This setup especially benefits travelers who prefer a more relaxed pace and the option to customize stops or spend extra time at favorites.

Visiting the Corinth Canal and Ancient Diolkos

The tour begins with the Corinth Canal, a marvel of 19th-century engineering that dramatically shortened maritime routes across the Isthmus of Corinth. Travelers can admire the spectacular waterway and learn about its role in Mediterranean trade. Nearby, the Ancient Diolkos paved trackway is a fascinating reminder of ancient Greek ingenuity, allowing boats to be moved overland across the isthmus.

This stop is brief—about 45 minutes—but provides a clear picture of Greece’s impressive engineering history. The admission is free, so you can focus on the stories and views without extra costs.

The Mystique of Mycenae and Its Royal Tombs

The archaeological site of Mycenae is a highlight, famous for its Cyclopean walls, Lion Gate, and the Royal Palace. The walls, built from massive limestone boulders, showcase the impressive construction skills of the late Bronze Age. The Lion Gate, dating back to the 13th century BC, remains a symbol of Mycenae’s power.

The site’s rich history is amplified by the Treasury of Atreus, a stunning beehive-shaped tomb from around 1250 BC, and the Tomb of Clytemnestra. Visitors have ample time to walk through these structures and appreciate their scale and craftsmanship. The Mycenaean Archaeological Museum offers an excellent collection of gold grave goods, masks, and frescoes, bringing the ancient world to life.

The Imposing Fortifications of Acrocorinth

Next, the tour takes you to Acrocorinth, the acropolis of ancient Corinth. This ancient fortress sits atop a monolithic rock and features a series of circuit walls and towers that showcase medieval and Byzantine construction. The Temple of Aphrodite remains on the highest point, with traces of its ancient origins.

The Frankish Tower and the bustling gates provide insight into Corinth’s strategic importance through centuries. Visiting Acrocorinth is about appreciating the panoramic views of the Corinthian Gulf and the Peloponnese. The 1-hour stop offers enough time to explore the ruins and snap photos of the stunning landscape.

Exploring Ancient Corinth’s Ruins and Museum

The ancient city of Corinth, known for its Temple of Apollo and Roman-era buildings, reveals Greece’s layered history. The Ottoman-built Hadgimoustafa spring and the Archaeological Museum make this stop educational and engaging. The museum houses artifacts from the local site and nearby excavations, including sculptures, pottery, and religious objects.

A significant feature is the Bema, where Apostle Paul delivered his teachings in 52 AD. The theatre and Odeon add to the sense of stepping into history. This visit roughly lasts 3 hours, offering a balanced mix of walking and exploration.

Refreshing Break at Hera Sanctuary and Blue Lake

The Heraion Sanctuary at Perachora provides a breath of fresh air and scenic beauty. The Malagavi Lighthouse marks the beginning of the site, leading to the Blue Lake, famous for its vivid color and tranquil waters. Visitors can enjoy a swim and bathe under the sun, making this a perfect way to relax after a day of sightseeing.

This stop lasts about 1 hour, and while admission fees to the sanctuary are not included, the opportunity to enjoy the natural scenery and refreshing water remains a key highlight of the tour.

The Balance of Cultural and Natural Highlights

Throughout the day, the tour masterfully mixes archaeological sites with stunning views of the Peloponnese landscape. The stops at Geraneia Mountain offer panoramic vistas of the Corinthian Gulf and surrounding coastlines, providing memorable photo opportunities. The interplay of history and nature ensures that the itinerary appeals to both history buffs and nature lovers.

The relaxed pace allows ample time at each stop, but some sites, like Mycenae and Corinth, may feel slightly rushed due to the overall schedule. The long drives are balanced by comfortable transport and the guidance of a friendly, informed driver.

Who Will Appreciate This Tour Most?

This private day trip best suits those who want an intimate, flexible experience with an emphasis on archaeological and scenic highlights. It’s suitable for travelers who prefer personalized attention, comfortable transport, and the ability to skip the crowds of large group tours. Pets and animals are allowed, making it accessible for travelers with service animals or pets.

The cost, while higher than group options, is justified by the customized service, private transport, and expert guidance. Those interested in history, engineering marvels, and natural beauty will find this tour particularly rewarding.

Final Thoughts on the Private Peloponnese Highlights Tour

The Private Tour of Blue Lake, Temple of Hera, Mycenae, Corinth & Isthmus Canal provides a comprehensive day exploring Greece’s ancient ruins and scenic landscapes. Its luxury transportation and personalized approach make it a convenient and enjoyable way to see key sites without the hassle of self-organizing.

Reviewers frequently praise the expert guides and well-paced schedule, although the long drives may require some patience. The addition of natural stops, like the Blue Lake and panoramic viewpoints, enhances the experience beyond just archaeological exploration.

This tour is an excellent choice for history enthusiasts, culture lovers, and anyone seeking a relaxed yet comprehensive day outside Athens. It’s especially suited for those who appreciate personalized service and the flexibility that comes with a private tour.

Frequently Asked Questions

What is included in the price of this tour?
The tour price covers private transportation, hotel/port pickup and drop-off, WiFi onboard, bottled water, handmade Greek biscuits, and a professional driver-guide. Entrance fees to sites are not included, but skip-the-line tickets can be arranged.

How long is the tour, and what does it cover?
The 9-hour tour covers stops at Corinth Canal, Mycenae, Acrocorinth, Ancient Corinth, and the Hera Sanctuary with Blue Lake. It combines archaeological exploration with scenic views, providing a balanced experience.

Is this tour suitable for families or travelers with pets?
Yes, most travelers can participate, and pets or animals are allowed, making it accessible for those traveling with service animals or pets.

Are there options to customize the schedule or sites?
As a private tour, it offers flexibility for customization or extra time at favorite sites, subject to driver-guide agreement.

What should I bring for the Blue Lake swim?
While admission fees are not included, visitors often enjoy swimming and bathing at the Blue Lake, so bringing swimwear, towels, and sun protection is recommended.