From Athens: 2-Day Tour Corinth, Mycenae, and Olympia

Discover Ancient Greece in Two Days from Athens

This 2-day private tour from Athens offers a comprehensive journey through some of Greece’s most iconic archaeological sites. Priced at a level that includes hotel accommodation and private transportation, it caters to travelers seeking an in-depth cultural experience without the hassle of planning every detail. The tour covers the Corinth Canal, the ancient city of Corinth, the theatre of Epidaurus, Mycenae, and Olympia, the birthplace of the Olympic Games.

The tour is designed for those who appreciate comfort, guided insights, and the flexibility of private arrangements. It departs early from Piraeus or Athens, with pickup included from various central locations, making logistics straightforward. While the itinerary covers a rich selection of highlights, keep in mind that admission fees, meals, and beverages are not included, so budget accordingly.

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Key Points

• Private tour for your party only, ensuring personalized attention and flexibility.
• Includes hotel stay in Nafplio or Epidaurus, plus private transport with free Wi-Fi.
• Visits key archaeological sites: Corinth Canal, Ancient Corinth, Epidaurus Theatre, Mycenae, Olympia, and Diolkos.
• Expert guides lead you through the history at Ancient Corinth and Olympia.
• Ideal for history lovers eager to explore Greece’s legendary past in two days.

Starting from Athens to the Corinth Canal and Ancient Corinth

The tour begins with a pickup from your Athens or Piraeus hotel or the cruise terminal, setting off early between 5:00 am and 8:00 am depending on your preferences. The first stop is the Corinth Canal, a scenic 25-minute visit where you’ll see the manmade waterway connecting the Corinthian and Saronic Gulfs. This canal, finished in 1893, has been a strategic and engineering marvel since 602 BC.

Following the canal, the journey leads to Ancient Corinth, where extensive ruins showcase the city’s past prosperity. Here, the Temple of Apollo stands as a testament to Corinth’s importance in antiquity. You have about 1.5 hours to explore the site, take photos, and learn from your guide about its historical significance.

Exploring the Theatre of Epidaurus and Its Acoustics

After Corinth, the tour heads to Epidaurus, famous for its exceptional theatre built in the 4th century BC. The amphitheatre’s renowned acoustics mean that even a whisper on stage can be heard across the entire space. The 1.5-hour visit includes a photo stop and an opportunity to appreciate this marvel of ancient architecture. The site is well-preserved and offers insight into health and healing temples of ancient Greece, although the tour focuses on the theatre.

The Mysteries of Mycenae and the Cyclopean Walls

Next, the tour visits the Homeric city of Mycenae, famed for its Cyclopean walls and the Lion Gate, which once served as the entrance to a royal palace. The 1.5-hour stop here allows you to walk through the ruins and get a glimpse of a first major center of Greek culture. According to legend, only a Cyclops could have moved the massive stones, giving the walls their name.

The site also features other ruins, like the Tholos tombs, and offers an atmospheric view into Greece’s early civilizations. The guide provides stories and context, making the visit both educational and engaging.

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The Fortress of Nafplio and the Legend of the 999 Steps

Later in the afternoon, the tour reaches Nafplio, where the Palamidi Fortress awaits. This Venetian-built castle is famous for its legend of 999 steps—once believed to be 1000, until one was crushed during the Greek War of Independence. The 1-hour stop offers spectacular views over Nafplio and the Argolic Gulf, perfect for photos and a sense of the site’s strategic importance.

The overnight stay is in Nafplio or Epidaurus, depending on availability, in a 3- or 4-star hotel or a boutique accommodation. This gives travelers a chance to rest in a charming setting after a day filled with exploration.

Day Two Begins with Ancient Olympia and Its Historic Significance

The second day starts with a drive to Ancient Olympia, arriving after about 2.5 hours. Guided insights reveal the original Olympic site, where Greeks from all city-states gathered every four years. The site features the Temple of Zeus, famously housing a 13-meter gold and ivory statue of Zeus, and the Temple of Hera.

The Stadium of Olympia and the Shrine of Pelops are also part of the exploration, offering a vivid picture of how sports and religion intertwined in ancient Greece. The guided tour through the ruins is designed to bring to life the pan-Hellenic festivals that once united Greece in competition and celebration.

The Ancient Track of the Diolkos and Site of the Olympic Games

An additional feature on Day 2 is the Diolkos, an ancient track that connected the Saronic and Corinthian Gulfs, used for transporting ships across the narrow land strip. The 30-minute visit to this archaeological site complements the broader history of Greek engineering.

This part of the tour capitalizes on the expert guide’s storytelling, emphasizing the ingenuity behind ancient transport methods and the significance of Olympia as the birthplace of modern athletic tradition.

Practicalities: Transport, Accommodation, and Overall Value

Throughout the tour, private transportation ensures comfort and efficiency, with well-maintained vehicles offering free Wi-Fi. The guide, an English speaker, provides professional insights at key sites, making the experience both informative and enjoyable.

Included in the package is hotel accommodation in Nafplio or Epidaurus, which adds convenience for travelers wanting to explore the region more leisurely. The all fuel surcharges and tolls are covered, simplifying the pricing.

While admission fees and meals are not included, the tour’s flexible structure allows travelers to decide how to spend their time at each site, whether eating locally or taking photos.

Accessibility and Physical Requirements

The itinerary involves walking on unpaved or uneven terrain at sites like Olympia and Mycenae. Travelers should wear comfortable shoes and be prepared for some moderate walking. The driver will do their best to assist, although some sites may require a fair bit of walking, making it less suitable for those with mobility challenges.

Overall Experience and Suitability

This 2-day private tour balances expert-guided visits with enough free time for personal exploration. It’s especially suited for history enthusiasts eager to see Greece’s most renowned ancient sites in a manageable timeframe. The hotels and private transport add comfort and convenience, making it an enjoyable way to see Greece’s archaeological treasures without the stress of logistics.

The guided insights at Ancient Corinth and Olympia stand out for their clarity and depth, while the scenic drives and stops at iconic ruins create a vivid picture of Greece’s historical landscape.

Final Thoughts on the 2-Day Corinth, Mycenae, and Olympia Tour

This tour offers a thorough glimpse into Greece’s past, with a focus on key archaeological sites that shaped Western civilization. The private arrangement guarantees a personalized experience, and the hotel stay in Nafplio or Epidaurus provides a comfortable base for two days of discovery.

While missing some inclusions like meals and admission fees, the ease of private transport and expert guidance make this a valuable option for those wishing to explore Greece’s legendary sites efficiently. It’s best suited for travelers who value comfort, flexibility, and detailed stories about Greece’s ancient heritage.

Frequently Asked Questions

What is included in the tour price?
The price covers private transportation, hotel accommodation, guides at Ancient Corinth and Olympia, and all fuel surcharges and tolls.

Are admission fees included?
No, admission fees are not included and must be paid separately at each archaeological site.

What is the typical departure time?
Departure is usually between 5:00 am and 8:00 am, based on your preference, to make the most of the two days.

Is this tour suitable for children?
Children under 18 must be accompanied by an adult. The physical activity involved may be moderate for younger kids.

What should I bring?
Bring comfortable shoes, hat, camera, sunscreen, and water for the outdoor site visits.

Can I customize the itinerary?
The tour operates on a set itinerary, but private arrangements allow for some flexibility, especially in timing.

Is food included?
No, lunch and dinner are not included, giving you the option to enjoy local eateries or pack snacks.

What about accessibility?
You should be able to walk on unpaved or uneven terrain; assistance is provided where possible.

Is this tour suitable for solo travelers?
While designed as a private experience for your party, solo travelers can book and enjoy the personalized guide service.

How do I confirm my booking?
Reservations can be made with flexible payment options, including pay later and free cancellation up to 24 hours before departure.

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