Athens Highlights & Ancient Corinth Private Full day tour

Exploring Athens becomes much more accessible and personal with the Athens Highlights & Ancient Corinth Private Full day tour. Priced at $542.31 per group (up to 2), this 8 to 9-hour journey offers a well-rounded glimpse into Greece’s most iconic landmarks, with a flexibility that suits travelers seeking a tailored experience. The tour features private transportation in a comfortable, air-conditioned vehicle, with pickup services and WiFi onboard, ensuring a smooth and engaging day.

One of the most compelling aspects of this tour is the chance to visit archaeological sites at different times from large tour groups, allowing for a more relaxed, insightful experience. While admission fees are not included (costing around 38 Euros per adult), the overall value is enhanced by expert English-speaking drivers who provide detailed explanations about the sites, history, and Greece’s cultural context. This tour is ideal for travelers who want personalized attention and flexibility, especially those who prefer to avoid crowded spots and enjoy a more in-depth exploration of Athens and its ancient surroundings.

Key Points

• Private full-day tour of Athens and Corinth, tailored to your needs
• Visits include the Acropolis, Parthenon, Temple of Olympian Zeus, Panathenaic Stadium, and more
• Expert English-speaking drivers provide insightful commentary but do not accompany you inside sites
• Includes luxury transportation, WiFi, and bottled water for comfort
• Admission fees are separate, totaling approximately 38 Euros per adult
• Offers flexibility and personalized timing to beat crowds and visit sites at optimal times

Starting with Athens’s Historic Acropolis and Its Monuments

The tour begins at the Acropolis, the hilltop complex that houses the Parthenon, arguably Greece’s most famous monument. The temple dedicated to Goddess Athena offers breathtaking views and a chance to appreciate classical architecture. Alongside the Parthenon, visitors see the Propylaea, the grand gateway, and the Temple of Wingless Victory, which honors Athena-Nike. The Erechtheum, with its iconic Caryatides, is also part of the visit, revealing Greek myth and architecture. The 5000-seat Odeon of Herodes Atticus and the theater of Dionysus are impressive structures carved into the rock, still used for performances today, blending history with modern use.

This stop takes about 1 hour and 30 minutes. Visitors benefit from visiting the site at less crowded times, thanks to the tour’s schedule flexibility. The admission is free, but keep in mind that guided explanations are provided by your driver, who shares insights about each monument’s significance.

The Magnificent Temple of Olympian Zeus in Central Athens

Following the Acropolis, the tour proceeds to the Temple of Olympian Zeus, a colossal relic that once housed one of the largest cult statues in the ancient world. Construction started in the 6th century BC but was completed only during the Roman Empire under Emperor Hadrian in the 2nd century AD. Its 104 giant columns stand as a testament to ancient Greek ambition and Roman engineering. Standing amidst the remaining ruins, visitors get a sense of the grandeur this temple once commanded.

This site is an open-air experience, with free access, and provides excellent photo opportunities. The tour’s driver offers context about the temple’s history and construction, helping visitors understand its significance in Greek and Roman history.

The Iconic Panathenaic Stadium and Its Marble Grandeur

Next, the Panathenaic Stadium, entirely built of white marble, is a highlight. Originally constructed around 330 BC for the Panathenaic Games, it was later rebuilt in marble by Herodes Atticus in 144 AD. The stadium has a capacity of 50,000 seats and is famous for hosting the first modern Olympic Games in 1896. Today, it still serves as a symbol of Athens’ sports heritage and is regularly used for ceremonies and events.

This stop lasts about 15 minutes, with admission not included. The driver can share stories of Olympic history and the stadium’s transformation over the centuries. Visitors appreciate the chance to walk on such a historic sporting venue and take photos of its grand marble architecture.

Witnessing Greece’s Democratic Roots at the Hellenic Parliament

Located in the historic Old Royal Palace, the Hellenic Parliament overlooks Syntagma Square. This is where the Greek Parliament convenes, representing the country’s democratic governance. The changing of the guard ceremony at the Tomb of the Unknown Soldier is a popular spectacle, featuring Evzones dressed in traditional uniforms with fustanella skirts.

The 15-minute stop here offers an opportunity to observe the ceremonial guards and hear explanations about Greece’s political history. Entry is free, and the driver is on hand to provide background on the importance of the parliament building and the guard’s significance.

The Corinth Canal – A 2000-Year-Old Dream Realized

Departing Athens, the tour heads 45 miles along the national highway to the Corinth Canal, a marvel linking the Saronic and Corinthian Seas. This 2000-year-old project was first conceived by the tyrant Periander in the 6th century BC, but actual construction only finished in the late 19th century. The canal’s narrow modern width allows ships to avoid the lengthy route around the Peloponnese, saving 185 nautical miles of travel.

The 20-minute stop offers a spectacular view of the canal’s steep walls and engineering feat. Visitors learn about its history, including Periander’s original plan of a stone road, and get impressive photos of this engineering achievement. The site’s historical significance and striking landscape make it a memorable part of the tour.

Exploring Ancient Corinth and Its Mythical Past

The ancient city of Corinth, founded in the 10th century BC, was a wealthy hub due to its strategic position on trade routes across the Isthmus of Corinth. The city was known for black-figured vases and grandeur rivaling Athens and Thebes in its heyday. The Acropolis of Corinth features the remains of a great temple, and the city’s mythology ties back to Sisyphus, who was doomed to push his boulder forever.

This one-hour stop allows visitors to walk among ruins and imagine what life was like in one of Greece’s most influential ancient cities. It’s best suited for those interested in archaeological sites and Greek mythology. Admission fees are not included in the tour price.

The Ancient Port of Kechries and Its Connection to Apostle Paul

Following the ruins, the tour includes a visit to the remains of Kechries, the ancient port of Corinth. This port served trade routes in the Saronic Gulf and was a crucial link for eastern trade. It’s a site of historical and biblical significance, as Apostle Paul arrived here during his second missionary journey.

After a 15-minute stop, visitors can appreciate the seaside views and remnants of this port. The site offers insight into ancient commerce and early Christian history, adding a layer of depth to the full-day experience.

Practical Details and Additional Features of the Tour

This private, customizable tour includes bottled water, WiFi on board, and professional drivers who speak fluent English. While the drivers do not accompany visitors inside the sites, they provide detailed explanations about each location’s history and significance. If a licensed guide is desired inside the sites, arrangements are available at an additional cost.

The tour is designed for most travelers, with most sites accessible and confirmation provided at booking. The full cost of entrance fees is not included but is approximately 38 Euros per adult. The cancellation policy offers full refunds if canceled 24 hours in advance, making it flexible for changing plans.

Why Choose This Tour for Your Greek Adventure

The Athens Highlights & Ancient Corinth Private Full day tour offers a compelling mix of historic landmarks, mythological sites, and modern Athens highlights in a luxurious, private setting. The expert drivers and personalized schedule make it a strong choice for visitors seeking comfort, flexibility, and detailed explanations without the crowds.

While the admission fees are additional, the overall experience emphasizes quality and customization. Visitors who value in-depth insights and avoiding busy tour buses will find this tour particularly rewarding. It’s well-suited for those eager to explore the core sites of Athens and Corinth with a trusted guide behind the wheel.

Frequently Asked Questions

Is this tour suitable for all ages?
Yes, most travelers can participate; the tour is flexible and includes accessible sites, but physical requirements depend on individual mobility.

Are entrance fees included?
No, the admission tickets for sites like the Acropolis and Corinth are not included and cost around 38 Euros per adult.

Can I request a licensed guide?
Yes, a licensed guide can be arranged upon request at an additional cost of 270 Euros, but the driver offers informative commentary during the drive.

What should I bring?
Bring comfortable shoes, sun protection, and cash or cards for entrance fees. Bottled water and WiFi are provided onboard.

How flexible is the schedule?
Since the tour is private, the timing at each stop can be adapted to suit your interests and pace, helping you avoid the busiest times.

Is transportation comfortable?
Yes, the tour uses well-maintained, air-conditioned vehicles equipped with WiFi, ensuring a comfortable journey throughout the day.