Canal of Corinthos & Ancient Corinthos Half Day Private Tour

Explore Ancient Greece with a Private Tour from Athens

The Canal of Corinthos & Ancient Corinthos Half Day Private Tour offers a personalized journey through some of Greece’s most iconic historic sites. Priced at $387.53 per group (up to 3 people), this 4 to 5-hour experience is perfect for those seeking an intimate, flexible exploration of Corinth’s remarkable landmarks. Departing from Athens, the tour provides a private vehicle, a dedicated driver, and the opportunity to customize the itinerary to suit your interests.

This tour stands out because of its personalized character—the car is exclusively yours, and the driver is attentive to all your needs. It is ideal for those who prefer a tailored experience, with the convenience of pickup from your hotel, apartment, or Piraeus port. While it does not include entry fees or guided tours inside archaeological sites, the overall flexibility and high-quality service make it a compelling choice for history enthusiasts.

Key Points

• Private, customizable tour with a dedicated vehicle and driver
• Focus on Corinth Canal, Ancient Corinth, and Acrocorinth over approximately 4-5 hours
• Includes pickup and drop-off from Athens, Piraeus port, or your accommodation
• Admission tickets are free for the Corinth Canal, but fees apply for archaeological sites
• Highly rated with a perfect 5.0/5 from 6 reviews, praised for reliability and knowledgeable service

The Corinth Canal: Human Engineering Marvel

The tour begins with a scenic drive along the coastal highway towards the Peloponnese, passing through areas near the Saronic Gulf, where the Naval Battle of Salamis occurred in 480 B.C. The first stop features the famous Corinth Canal, a striking human-made waterway connecting the Corinthian Gulf with the Saronic Gulf.

At this 15-minute stop, travelers enjoy views of the canal, a marvel of engineering that cuts through the Isthmus of Corinth. Although admission is free, this quick photo stop allows plenty of time to marvel at the canal’s impressive structure and take photos of the surrounding scenery.

Visiting the Archaeological Site of Ancient Corinth

Next, the tour continues to the archaeological site of Ancient Corinth, where the driver leads you to explore the ruins. The site includes several highlights: the Temple of Apollo, built on a rocky hill, and the Roman Odeon, which offers a glimpse into the cultural life of ancient Greece.

A particularly notable feature is the “Vema” tribunal, from where St. Paul preached to the Corinthians, making this spot significant for biblical history. The site also features a theatre and the Glauke fountain, carved into natural rock, providing a picturesque setting. An archaeological museum is nearby, though entry fees are not included in the tour.

The guided commentary on the history and significance of each landmark helps visitors understand the site’s importance, even without an official guide accompanying inside the archaeological area. Expect about an hour at this stop.

Exploring the Hilltop Acrocorinth Fortress

The last major stop is at Acrocorinth, a monolithic rock dominating the landscape with ancient ruins scattered across its surface. This site once served as a stronghold and provides breathtaking views of the surrounding region.

Visitors can see the ruins of the Temple of Aphrodite, the Ancient Spring of Peirene, and several churches built within the fortress walls. The walk around Acrocorinth offers a chance to enjoy panoramic vistas and imagine life during ancient times. Since entry fees are not included, travelers can decide whether to explore the ruins further or simply appreciate the scenery. The visit typically lasts about one hour.

Logistics and Comfort on a Private, Air-Conditioned Vehicle

The private tour vehicle is air-conditioned, ensuring comfort during the approximately 4-5 hour journey. The vehicle also features WiFi and bottled water, making the trip more enjoyable and convenient. The driver/guide is an English speaker and is available to provide explanations, though he is not allowed inside archaeological sites or museums.

One of the key benefits is flexibility; the driver will attend to your needs and can accommodate changes within the itinerary. Pickup and drop-off are available at hotels, apartments, or the Piraeus port, making this a seamless experience for travelers arriving by cruise or staying in Athens.

Safety and Hygiene Measures

Given recent health concerns, JG Athens Tours emphasizes enhanced safety and hygiene procedures. Travelers can feel confident in the cleanliness of the vehicle and the professionalism of the service, making it a safe choice for those cautious about COVID-19.

Customization and Additional Services

While the basic package includes private transportation and local taxes, it does not include admission fees for archaeological sites or a licensed guide for inside the sights. However, guides are available upon request at an additional cost, allowing for a more in-depth experience if desired.

The tour is booked on average 6 days in advance, reflecting its popularity and the convenience of planning ahead. Cancellation is free up to 24 hours before the scheduled start, offering peace of mind.

Why Choose This Tour?

This half-day private experience offers a personalized, relaxed pace to visit Corinth’s most famous sites. The flexibility to customize the itinerary and the high-quality service are standout features, especially for those who prefer a more private and comfortable exploration.

While it does not include guided tours inside the archaeological sites, the driver’s commentary and the opportunity to explore at your own pace compensate well for this. It is particularly suited for travelers wanting an intimate, informative, and hassle-free day trip from Athens.

Final Thoughts on the Corinth Private Tour

This tour provides a value-rich experience, especially for those who prioritize personalized service and flexibility. The scenic drive, the impressive Corinth Canal, and the historic ruins of Ancient Corinth and Acrocorinth make it a memorable half-day journey.

While travelers should budget separately for entrance fees and possibly guided tours inside the archaeological sites, the overall convenience and expert service make it a reliable and enjoyable option for exploring Corinth’s highlights.

Frequently Asked Questions

Is this tour suitable for all physical abilities?
Yes, the tour involves walking at the archaeological sites, but the pace can be adjusted. The vehicle and pickup/drop-off services help make the experience accessible.

Can I customize the itinerary?
Yes, the driver will try to accommodate your preferences, making this a flexible experience.

Are entrance fees included?
No, entrance tickets for archaeological sites and museums are not included in the price. You should budget separately for these.

What is the tour duration?
The tour lasts approximately 4 to 5 hours, depending on your pace and interests.

Is lunch included?
No, food and drinks are not included, but bottled water is provided, and there are options to purchase food during the trip.

Can I book this tour if I am arriving by cruise ship?
Yes, pickup and drop-off at Piraeus port are included, making it a convenient option for cruise passengers.

How do I book or cancel this tour?
Booking is recommended 6 days in advance, and cancellation is free up to 24 hours before the start.

What makes this tour different from group excursions?
This is a private, personalized experience with a dedicated driver and flexible itinerary, unlike larger group tours.

Is a guide inside the archaeological sites available?
Guides can be arranged upon request for an additional fee, but the tour includes just the driver/guide outside the sites.

What safety measures are in place?
Enhanced hygiene protocols are followed, and the vehicle is kept clean, ensuring safety during your trip.