Biblical Tour Letters to The Corinthians – St Pauls Footsteps

Key Points

• Price of $207.50 per person for an 8-9 hour private tour from Athens
• Follow in St. Paul’s footsteps through significant biblical and historical sites, such as Ancient Corinth, the Corinth Canal, and Areopagus Hill
• Includes luxury transportation with Wi-Fi, bottled water, and optional Greek traditional lunch in Corinth
• Expert driver provides historical context but no licensed guide accompanies you inside sites
• Highlights include the Corinth Canal, the Temple of Apollo, the Bema in Ancient Corinth, and the fortress of Akrokorinthos
• Highly rated with a 5.0/5 from 40 reviews, praised for knowledgeable drivers, flexibility, and meaningful stops

This private tour offers a compelling way to explore Greece’s biblical landscape in comfort and style. For those interested in St. Paul’s travels, the itinerary covers must-see ancient sites and provides insightful commentary from a knowledgeable driver. The tour’s flexibility and private nature make it ideal for travelers who want to explore at their own pace, though it does not include a licensed guide inside archaeological sites.

Exploring the Biblical Sites of Athens and Corinth

This full-day, private tour begins with convenient pickup from Athens and takes you on a journey through some of Greece’s most historically and biblically significant locations. Priced at $207.50 per person, the experience spans approximately 8 to 9 hours, making it a comprehensive and immersive day. The tour is designed to suit those with an interest in early Christianity, ancient Greek culture, and archaeology, offering a mix of guided commentary and independent exploration.

The private transportation ensures a smooth trip from site to site, with onboard Wi-Fi and bottled water provided for comfort. Travelers have praised the driver’s knowledge, as well as the flexibility to customize the pace at each location. The tour is popular, often booked 91 days in advance, reflecting its appeal among visitors eager to trace St. Paul’s historic journey.

Starting at Areopagus Hill: The Sermon in Athens

The day kicks off with a walk through the sacred grounds of the Acropolis, culminating at Areopagus Hill, also known as Mars Hill. This is where Apostle Paul delivered a powerful sermon to the council of Athens, addressing their beliefs and introducing Christianity. Standing here offers a unique sense of connection to biblical history and Greek philosophy alike.

While admission to this site is not included, the location itself provides a spiritual and historical reflection on Paul’s first evangelistic efforts in Greece. The 20-minute stop combines physical presence with engaging storytelling from your driver, who explains the significance of this site in biblical and cultural terms.

Marveling at the Corinth Canal

From Athens, the tour proceeds to the impressive Corinth Canal, a marvel of engineering that connects the Ionian Sea with the Aegean Sea. The 30-minute stop offers stunning views of the steep limestone walls and passing vessels, illustrating the importance of this narrow waterway for maritime trade.

The Corinth Canal’s sea level design with no locks makes it a fascinating sight. Visitors can enjoy panoramic views and snap photos of this iconic feature in Greece’s landscape, which played a crucial role in the region’s commerce long before modern shipping routes.

Discovering the Ancient Diolkos

Next, the Diolkos, an ancient overland ship transport route, reveals Greece’s engineering ingenuity. Remnants of the Diolkos allow visitors to imagine ships being dragged across the isthmus, connecting the Aegean and Ionian Seas. This 20-minute stop provides a tangible link to ancient maritime activity and trade routes.

This site also helps contextualize the biblical landscape, as St. Paul likely encountered merchants and travelers passing through this strategic corridor. Its deep history underscores Greece’s role as a crossroads of commerce and culture.

Visiting the Sanctuary of Isthmia and the Isthmian Games

Isthmia is a key stop, where the temple of Poseidon and the ancient stadium highlight the religious and athletic significance of the area. The 1-hour visit includes exploring the historic sanctuary and imagining the Isthmian Games, which rivaled the Olympics in importance.

Paul’s connection to Isthmia is both historical and spiritual, as he is believed to have worked as a tentmaker here, offering lodging to athletes and visitors. This site illustrates the diverse spiritual landscape Paul encountered, blending pagan worship, athletic festivals, and early Christian activity.

Exploring the Archaeological Museum of Isthmia

At the Archaeological Museum of Isthmia, visitors find artifacts from the Sanctuary of Poseidon and glass panels from Cenchreae, the port where Paul set sail for Syria. The 30-minute visit displays statues, offerings, and burial artifacts, providing a vivid picture of the region’s cultural diversity during Paul’s era.

The museum offers insight into the religious practices and daily life of ancient Greece, enriching the understanding of the environment where early Christianity took root.

Walking Through Ancient Corinth

The core of the tour is Ancient Corinth, where Apostle Paul spent over 18 months. This site features the Bema (judgment seat), believed to be the place where Paul faced trial before Proconsul Gallio. The 1-hour exploration includes visiting the ruins and imagining Paul’s efforts to establish a Christian community in this bustling trade hub.

Admission fees are not included, but the site’s significance as a biblical and historical landmark makes it a highlight. The Bema offers a powerful sense of connection to Paul’s ministry and the early church’s struggles.

The Sacred Site of Isthmia’s Temples and Stadium

The Archaeological Site of Isthmia showcases the Temple of Poseidon, reconstructed over centuries, and the ancient stadium where athletic competitions took place. The 40-minute visit reveals the religious and sporting traditions that shaped the region, both of which Paul would have observed.

Nearby, the Sanctuary of Palaimon dedicated to the patron of sailors highlights the maritime spirituality that pervaded the area. This site offers a vivid look at pagan Greece’s spiritual landscape, contrasting with Paul’s Christian message.

The Ancient Theater of Isthmia

The ancient theater, originally built for the Isthmian Games’ musical contests, features Roman mosaics depicting mythological scenes. The stop emphasizes the cultural and religious traditions of Greece while illustrating the contrast with Paul’s message of faith and Christianity. Visitors can glimpse the vibrant yet pagan atmosphere surrounding biblical events.

The Fortress of Akrokorinthos: Panoramic Reflection

Climbing the fortress of Akrokorinthos provides breathtaking views over Corinth and the surrounding landscape. The 1-hour visit allows reflection on Paul’s possible view of the city as he pondered his mission. The ancient paths and walls connect visitors to the spiritual journey of the Apostle.

This site offers a peaceful setting for contemplating the enduring legacy of Paul’s work and the strategic importance of the city during his time.

Visiting the Temple of Apollo and the Port of Cenchreae

The Temple of Apollo, dating to around 560 BC, remains a striking example of early Greek architecture and worship. Standing at the site, visitors can imagine the city’s polytheistic culture that Paul challenged. The 30-minute stop underlines the spiritual environment Paul entered.

At Cenchreae, the eastern port of Corinth, visitors walk where Paul once stood during his second missionary journey. The 30-minute stop marks the place where Paul cut his hair to fulfill a vow and sent off on his voyage to Syria, emphasizing its biblical significance. The port continues to symbolize the spread of Christianity beyond Greece.

The Church of Apostolou Pavlou: Celebrating Paul’s Mission

In Corinth, the Apostolou Pavlou church commemorates Paul’s 18 months of evangelism in the city. The 20-minute stop features a site where Paul preached and laid the foundations of the Christian community. It acts as a living reminder of his ongoing influence.

Adjacent to this is the Bema, where Paul was brought before Gallio, a pivotal moment that allowed his mission to continue without Roman interference. Standing here connects visitors directly to biblical history and Paul’s bold defense of his faith.

Akrokorinthos: A Fortress with a View

The fortress of Akrokorinthos is a highlight for panoramic views and historical reflection. The 1-hour visit offers a chance to stand where Paul might have looked out over Corinth, contemplating his mission. Walking along the ancient walls links visitors to the strategic importance of the city and Paul’s spiritual journey.

Ease of Logistics and Personalization

This private tour includes hotel or port pickup, air-conditioned transportation, and Wi-Fi, making the day comfortable and stress-free. The driver provides engaging commentary, though no licensed guide accompanies you inside sites. Flexibility to explore sites at your own pace is a key advantage, especially for those with specific interests or mobility considerations.

Authentic Greek Cuisine and Lunch Options

A lunch in Corinth is included if the “With Greek traditional food” option is selected, allowing travelers to enjoy local cuisine mid-day. On other days, the tour still provides a timed break for shopping and refreshments, ensuring a well-rounded experience.

Overall Value and Experience

Rated 5.0 out of 5 from 40 reviews, the tour is praised for knowledgeable drivers, flexibility, and the chance to walk through sites where St. Paul once ministered. The combination of biblical sites, ancient ruins, and scenic views makes this tour a compelling option for history enthusiasts and faith travelers alike.

Who Will Enjoy This Tour Most

This tour suits those who appreciate deep historical context, are interested in biblical stories, and prefer a private, flexible experience. It’s ideal for travelers who want to explore at their own pace and focus on key biblical locations with expert commentary from a driver, rather than a guided group inside archaeological sites.

Final Thoughts on the Biblical Tour of Corinth and Athens

The “Letters to the Corinthians” tour offers a comprehensive journey through Greece’s most meaningful biblical sites, combining history, religion, and stunning landscapes. The private nature and luxury transportation add comfort, making it suitable for those seeking a personal, in-depth experience. The absence of onsite guide entry might be a limitation for some, but the knowledgeable driver’s commentary compensates well.

This tour provides a valuable and memorable way to understand the roots of Christianity in Greece while enjoying beautiful scenery and well-organized logistics. It’s especially recommended for faith travelers and history buffs wanting an authentic, flexible exploration of St. Paul’s Greece.

Frequently Asked Questions

Is this tour suitable for children?
Yes, the tour’s physical demands are moderate, and children interested in history and biblical sites generally enjoy the experience.

Are entrance fees included?
No, entrance fees for archaeological sites and museums are paid at your own expense.

Does the driver provide commentary inside the sites?
No, the driver provides commentary from outside the sites but does not accompany guests inside archaeological locations.

Can the tour be customized?
The private nature allows flexibility, and the driver can tailor the pace and stops according to your interests.

Is lunch included?
Lunch is included if you select the “With Greek traditional food” option; otherwise, there is time to explore and have a meal independently.

What is the cancellation policy?
You can cancel up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund. Cancellations closer to the tour date are non-refundable.

How long is the tour?
The tour lasts approximately 8 to 9 hours, making it a full-day experience.

Is transportation air-conditioned?
Yes, the private vehicle is air-conditioned with onboard Wi-Fi and bottled water.

Are there any physical requirements?
The tour involves walking at some sites, including stairs and uneven terrain, so it’s best suited for those with moderate mobility.

Who operates this tour?
The experience is provided by My Athens Transfers, with professional drivers knowledgeable about Greek history and biblical sites.