Private Tour of Apostle Paul Footsteps in Ancient Corinth

Discover the journey of Apostle Paul through the ancient city of Corinth on this private tour from Athens, priced at $162.46 per person. With a 5 to 6-hour duration, this experience offers a personalized exploration of significant biblical and historical locations, including the ancient Agora, Bema, Temple of Apollo, and Acrocorinth. The tour is highly rated, with a perfect 5.0 out of 5 from 199 reviews, and is recommended by 99% of participants.

This tour is ideal for those interested in biblical history, archaeology, or Greek culture. It includes convenient pickup and drop-off services, a comfortable air-conditioned vehicle, and WiFi onboard. The experience emphasizes a flexible pace, focusing on key sites related to Apostle Paul’s travels, making it suitable for most travelers, though site entry fees are not included.

While the tour boasts excellent reviews for knowledgeable guides and a friendly atmosphere, it’s worth noting that it does not include entry tickets to archaeological sites or museums. It’s a carefully curated, enriching journey that balances historical depth with comfort and flexibility.

Key Points

• Private, personalized experience of ancient Corinth, ideal for biblical history enthusiasts
• Duration of 5 to 6 hours with flexible pacing and hotel pickup/drop-off
• Visits notable sites such as the ancient Agora, Bema, Temple of Apollo, and Acrocorinth
• Expert English-speaking drivers with in-depth knowledge of Corinth’s history and Apostle Paul’s journey
• Free cancellation available up to 24 hours in advance
• Admission fees to archaeological sites and museums are not included

The Private Tour of Corinth: An Intimate Journey into Apostle Paul’s Footsteps

This private tour offers the chance to walk through the very streets and sites associated with Apostle Paul’s missions in Corinth. The experience begins with hotel pickup in Athens, featuring a comfortable, air-conditioned vehicle with WiFi, making the journey both relaxing and informative. The personalized aspect ensures that your group gets ample time at each stop, guided by a professional driver with extensive local knowledge.

The cost of $162.46 per person reflects a premium service focused on quality and tailored insights. The average booking window of 52 days in advance suggests this tour appeals to travelers planning ahead for a meaningful biblical and historical exploration.

From the Isthmus of Corinth to the Ancient Port of Kenchreai

The tour starts with a brief stop at the Isthmus of Corinth, the narrow land bridge connecting the Peloponnese to mainland Greece. Known historically as a key landmark, the Canal, which has run through the isthmus since 1893, turns this route into an iconic crossing point.

Next, the Diolkos paved trackway is explored. This ancient overland route enabled ships to avoid the perilous voyage around the Peloponnese, making it a crucial part of Corinth’s maritime history.

The journey continues to the Ancient Port of Kenchreai, where St. Paul disembarked in 53 A.D. during his first trip to Corinth. The remains of Roman-era constructions, tunnels, harbor facilities, and early Christian relics like the 4th-century basilica highlight the port’s historical importance. The site’s connection to Paul’s travels makes it a key stop on this tour.

Exploring the Ruins of Ancient Corinth

The core focus of the tour is the archaeological site of Ancient Corinth, where visitors can see the majestic Temple of Apollo—a symbol of the city’s ancient power. The Bema, a raised platform where Paul is believed to have preached, draws special attention for its biblical significance.

The Ancient Agora, once the bustling marketplace, offers insights into Corinth’s commercial life during Paul’s era. Visitors can imagine the lively exchanges that took place in this historic hub, seeing ruins that span multiple eras.

The Archaeological Museum of Corinth

A visit to the Archaeological Museum provides a deeper understanding of Corinth’s excavations. Located in a building from 1932, the museum displays artifacts from various periods, including the prehistoric era and findings from the Sanctuary of Asklepios. Recent upgrades in 2007-2008 have enhanced the exhibits, making this a valuable stop for context, even though the entry fee is not included.

Climbing the Fortress of Acrocorinth

The Acrocorinth fortress offers panoramic views and a glimpse into the city’s defensive history. The complex features three enclosures with ruins from the classical period, Byzantine, Frankish, Venetian, and Ottoman periods. Walking through these layers of history provides a sense of Corinth’s strategic importance across centuries.

Visiting the Apostle Paul’s Modern Memorial

In the heart of ancient Corinth, a contemporary church dedicated to Saint Paul stands. Its striking mosaic by Pastorutti and Tsotsonis illustrates Paul’s journeys, blending the ancient with the modern and offering a reflective space for visitors interested in his legacy.

Logistics and Practical Tips

The tour’s pickup and drop-off service simplifies logistics, especially for travelers staying in Athens. The vehicle used for groups of 1-4 people is a sedan, ensuring comfort during the approximately hour-long drive each way.

Participants should wear comfortable shoes suitable for walking over uneven ruins and bring sun protection such as a hat and sunscreen, especially during warmer months. The tour emphasizes a relaxed pace, allowing plenty of time at each site, though entrance fees to archaeological sites and the museum are not included.

The Experience of a Guided, Private Journey

The benefit of a private tour lies in the flexible schedule and personalized attention. Professional, friendly English-speaking drivers with extensive knowledge make the experience engaging and educational. Many reviews highlight guides like Giannis, Ruslan, Andreas, Michael, and Yiannis as being courteous, friendly, and well-informed.

The tour’s reviews consistently praise the guides’ storytelling ability, their enthusiasm for Corinth’s history, and their readiness to tailor stops or provide additional insights upon request.

Optional Extras and Additional Costs

While the tour includes hotel pickup/drop-off, bottled water, and WiFi, entrance tickets to archaeological sites and museums are not included. Travelers should budget separately for these if they wish to access the sites fully.

Cancellation Policy and Booking

Booking is flexible with free cancellation up to 24 hours in advance. This allows travelers to plan with confidence, knowing they can adjust or cancel if needed. Weather conditions are also considered, with the possibility of rescheduling or refund if the tour is canceled due to poor weather.

Apostle Paul’s Footsteps in Corinth: A Unique Biblical and Historical Experience

This tour offers an intimate view of Corinth’s ancient streets and sites associated with Apostle Paul’s missionary work. The personalized approach, combined with expert narration and well-chosen stops, makes it a compelling choice for those seeking a meaningful exploration of biblical history.

The up-to-date reviews attest to guides’ high quality, with many emphasizing knowledgeable storytelling, friendliness, and careful attention to detail. Whether you’re deeply interested in biblical stories or simply enjoy archaeology, this tour provides a rewarding journey through time.

While it does not include site entry fees, the richness of the stops, the comfortable transportation, and the flexibility make it a strong value for those who want an in-depth look at Corinth’s historical landscape. The experience suits those looking for a focused, enriching, and comfortable day out from Athens.

Frequently Asked Questions

Is this tour suitable for children?
Yes, children are welcome, and child seats are available upon request. The tour is flexible and can be adapted to suit family needs.

Do I need to pay for entrance fees separately?
Yes, entrance fees to archaeological sites and museums are not included. Budget accordingly if you wish to access the sites.

How long is the drive from Athens to Corinth?
The drive typically takes about an hour each way, depending on traffic, with the tour including pickup and drop-off services.

What should I wear on this tour?
Comfortable shoes for walking on uneven surfaces and weather-appropriate attire are recommended. Bring a hat and sunscreen for sunny days.

Can the tour be customized?
As a private experience, guides are often willing to tailor stops or provide additional insights based on your interests, within the tour’s structure.

Is the tour wheelchair accessible?
The data does not specify accessibility details. It’s best to inquire directly with the provider if needed.

What is the group size?
The vehicle used for groups of 1-4 people is a sedan, ensuring a private and intimate experience.

Are lunch or snacks included?
No, meals are not included, but there are opportunities to stop for food along the way.

How can I cancel or reschedule?
Cancellation is free up to 24 hours in advance. Rescheduling policies are also flexible within this window.

What makes this tour stand out?
The personalized, private experience combined with in-depth historical sites related to Apostle Paul and expert guides makes this tour a standout option for history and biblical enthusiasts.

This Private Tour of Apostle Paul Footsteps in Ancient Corinth offers a well-rounded, flexible, and insightful way to connect with history in a comfortable setting. For those eager to trace Paul’s journeys and explore Corinth’s archaeological treasures, this tour provides a thoughtful and engaging experience.