Mycenae Epidaurus Corinth Nafplio Private Day Tour from Athens

A full-day private tour from Athens for those eager to discover Greece’s legendary archaeological sites and scenic towns. Priced at $278.93 per person, this 10-hour journey covers Mycenae, Epidaurus, Corinth, and Nafplio, offering a mix of history, culture, and stunning landscapes. The tour includes hotel or port pickup and drop-off, private transportation, and bottled water, making for a smooth and comfortable experience.

What sets this tour apart is the flexibility it offers: travelers can explore each site independently or opt to hire a licensed guide for more in-depth insights. The private vehicle ensures you cover a broader area efficiently, while the scheduled stops make it easy to enjoy time at key locations without feeling rushed. This tour is ideal for history buffs, culture enthusiasts, and those looking for a personalized day out with expert drivers who bring local knowledge.

Key Points

• Private transportation allows for a relaxed, efficient visit to multiple key sites in the Peloponnese.
• Flexible options include exploring sites independently or hiring a licensed guide for detailed explanations.
• Includes hotel or port pickup and drop-off, ensuring convenience and ease of access.
• Visits to major sites like Mycenae, Epidaurus, Corinth Canal, and Nafplio—all in one day.
• Scenic drive through the Greek countryside, with picturesque villages and coastal views.
• Affordable luxury at $278.93 per person for a full-day private experience.

Starting the Day at the Corinth Canal

The tour begins with a scenic drive along the Peloponnese coast, offering views of seaside villages and the historic Salamis Island. The Corinth Canal, opened in 1892, is the first stop, providing an opportunity to walk across the pedestrian bridge and admire this engineering marvel that links the Saronic Gulf with the Corinthian Sea. On some days, there’s also the chance to try bungee jumping, adding a touch of adventure to the visit.

This short stop is 15 minutes long, with free admission, making it a quick but memorable introduction to Greece’s impressive waterways. The iconic canal is a must-see for those interested in engineering feats and Greek history.

Exploring Ancient Corinth’s Religious and Commercial Heritage

Next is the Ancient Corinth archaeological site, a major religious destination in Greece. Visitors from this tour can see where the Apostle Paul preached Christianity and where the tribunal in the Agora judged cases. The site offers a glimpse into the commercial and spiritual life of ancient Greece, with ruins reflecting its historical significance.

While admission tickets are not included, the one-hour visit allows enough time to walk around and appreciate the ruins, including the Temple of Apollo, which dates back to around 560 B.C.E. The temple is one of the earliest Doric structures on the Greek mainland and highlights Corinth’s prosperity during that era.

Visiting the Temple of Apollo on the Rocky Hill

The Temple of Apollo at Corinth stands on a prominent rocky hill, representing an early example of Doric architecture. Built of local limestone, this 10-minute stop provides excellent photo opportunities and a sense of the scale of ancient Greek religious buildings.

Though no admission fee is necessary, the temple’s location offers a dramatic view of the surrounding landscape, emphasizing Corinth’s historical importance as a hub of commerce and culture in ancient Greece.

Climbing Acrocorinth Fortress for Panoramic Views

A highlight of the day is the visit to Acrocorinth, the largest and oldest castle in southern Greece. The 20-minute stop at the fortress offers sweeping vistas over the Peloponnese, with the chance to take memorable photos of the land and sea below.

The fortress also played a strategic military role for centuries, with its imposing walls and scenic vantage points making it a popular stop. Access is free, and the site appeals to those interested in history and panoramic scenery alike.

Discovering the Ancient City of Mycenae

The most renowned archaeological site on this tour is Mycenae, dating back to the second millennium B.C.E. This UNESCO World Heritage site is famously associated with Homer’s epics, showcasing the palaces of legendary figures like Agamemnon. The one-minute stop here is enough to appreciate the grandeur of the ruins.

Highlights include the Lion Gate, the oldest architectural sculpture in Europe, along with the cyclopean walls, burial circle A, and the remains of Agamemnon’s Palace. The site’s significance and impressive ruins make it a must-visit for history lovers.

Exploring the Museum of Ancient Mycenae

Adjacent to the archaeological site is the Mycenae Archaeological Museum, where 30 minutes are dedicated to viewing artifacts uncovered during excavations. The museum offers context to the ruins and displays items such as pottery, jewelry, and tools that shed light on Mycenaean civilization.

Admission fees are not included, but the museum enhances understanding of the site’s historical importance and allows for a more detailed appreciation of the ancient culture.

Visiting the Treasury of Atreus

Before leaving Mycenae, the tour makes a brief stop at the Treasury of Atreus, an outstanding example of Mycenaean architecture. The 20-minute visit provides an opportunity to marvel at the well-preserved Tholos tomb, with its intricate stonework and impressive scale.

This site is notable as one of the best-preserved tombs of its kind, offering a tangible link to Greece’s ancient past and the craftsmanship of the Mycenaeans.

Strolling Through Nafplio’s Historic Old Town

The tour then heads to Nafplio, considered Greece’s most scenic city until 1834. The two-hour visit includes a chance to explore its charming streets, which blend Venetian, neoclassical, and oriental architectural elements. The city’s enormous port opens to the Aegean, providing stunning waterfront views.

A lunch at a traditional seaside tavern offers local cuisine and a relaxing break amid the historic surroundings. The visit also includes a drive up to Akronafplia Fortress for panoramic views of Nafplio, a perfect spot for photos and soaking in the city’s beauty.

Climbing Akronafplia Fortress for Panoramic Views

The 10-minute stop at Akronafplia Fortress gives visitors a chance to enjoy sweeping vistas of Nafplio’s old town and the coastline. The fortress, positioned on a hill, played a strategic role in the city’s defense and remains a popular viewpoint.

The site is free, and the views make it an ideal spot for photography and appreciating Nafplio’s scenic setting.

Visiting Epidaurus and Its Ancient Theatre

The journey continues to the Epidaurus archaeological site, known for its ancient sanctuary dedicated to Asclepius, the god of healing. The site is spread over a hilly area and offers insights into ancient Greek medicine and religion.

The 30-minute visit includes the Ancient Theatre of Epidaurus, renowned for its extraordinary acoustics and preservation. Visitors can climb to the upper rows and test the acoustics firsthand, experiencing what it might have been like during ancient performances. Admission is not included.

Experiencing the Well-Preserved Theatre of Epidaurus

The Theatre of Epidaurus is a highlight, built in the 4th century B.C.E. and celebrated for its flawless acoustics and symmetry. Its impressive size and design continue to impress modern visitors, who can test the acoustics by speaking from the stage or listening from the upper seats.

This site offers a glimpse into ancient Greek theatrical architecture and performance art, making it a memorable end to the day’s exploration.

Scenic Drive Back to Athens Through Village Landscapes

The return journey to Athens takes a country road crossing picturesque villages and lush landscapes. This drive provides a relaxed finish to the tour, allowing travelers to enjoy the rural scenery of the Peloponnese and reflect on the day’s discoveries.

The private vehicle and expert driver ensure a smooth, comfortable ride, ending the day with views of Greece’s charming countryside.

Final Thoughts on the Private Day Tour from Athens

This private tour offers a thorough exploration of key ancient sites, complemented by scenic drives and flexible options. The expert drivers with deep historical knowledge enhance the experience, whether travelers choose to explore sites independently or hire a guide for more detail.

The scenic stops, like Acrocorinth and Nafplio, provide breathtaking views and photo opportunities. The tour’s main limitation is the additional cost for licensed guides and site entrance fees, so budget planning is recommended.

Ideal for those who want a personalized, in-depth day without the stress of group tours, this experience suits history enthusiasts and those seeking comfort and flexibility. Overall, it delivers a well-rounded, engaging look into Greece’s ancient past and scenic beauty in a single day.

Frequently Asked Questions

Is hotel pickup included in this tour?
Yes, the tour offers hotel or port pickup and drop-off for convenience.

Can I hire a licensed guide?
Yes, a licensed guide can be hired upon request for an additional cost of $380, depending on availability.

Are entrance fees included?
No, entrance fees to Ancient Corinth, Mycenae, and Epidaurus are not included in the tour price.

How long is the tour?
The tour lasts approximately 10 hours, starting at 8:00 am.

What is the group size?
This is a private tour, so only your group participates, ensuring personalized attention.

Is there free cancellation?
Yes, cancellations made at least 24 hours in advance are fully refundable.

What should I bring?
Comfortable shoes, water, and a camera are recommended to enjoy the scenic and archaeological stops fully.

Is this tour suitable for all ages?
Most travelers can participate, but the tour involves walking and climbing at some sites, so physical mobility should be considered.

How much does this tour cost?
The price is $278.93 per person, offering a comprehensive private experience with 12 stops.

Who is the tour provider?
The experience is provided by Olive Sea Travel, with deep local knowledge and excellent service reputation.