Saint Paul Steps Full Day Private Tour

Discover the Storybook Sites of Athens and Corinth in a Full Day

The Saint Paul Steps Full Day Private Tour offers an enriching journey through some of Greece’s most famous landmarks, all in a single 9-hour experience. Priced at $340 per person, this tour provides private transportation, skip-the-line tickets (for bookings after January 27, 2025), and the company of knowledgeable drivers who deepen your understanding of these historic sites.

What makes this tour stand out is its focus on not only the iconic Acropolis but also significant biblical and ancient sites such as Mars Hill and the ancient city of Corinth. It’s ideal for travelers interested in history, archaeology, and religious heritage, especially those keen to see sites connected to Apostle Paul.

While the full day includes many highlights, it does involve moderate walking and some driving along scenic coastal routes. The tour is perfect for those who appreciate a comprehensive, private experience with expert commentary, but it’s worth noting that guided site visits do not include licensed guides—only the driver provides narration, unless an additional guide is requested at extra cost.

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Key Points

• Full-day private tour covering Athens, Corinth, and surrounding sites
• Visit the Acropolis, Parthenon, Temple of Athena Nike, and Odeon of Herodes Atticus
• Explore Mars Hill and the ancient city of Corinth with Roman Agora and Temple of Apollo
• Drive across the Corinth Canal and see the Aegean Sea views
• Includes skip-the-line tickets for the Acropolis and Corinth, plus hotel pickup and drop-off
• Optional licensed guide available for an additional fee of $380

Athens’ Most Famous Landmark: The Acropolis and Its Monuments

The tour begins with a visit to the Acropolis of Athens, the city’s most iconic symbol. Guides lead you around the main structures, including the Parthenon, Temple of Athena Nike, and the Erechtheum. The Odeon of Herodes Atticus, an ancient stone amphitheater, is also visible from the site.

Travelers are able to admire the architectural grandeur and historical significance of these structures, which have stood for centuries. The skip-the-line tickets ensure you spend more time exploring and less waiting in queues. The 1.5-hour visit offers a thorough overview, ideal for understanding Athens’ role in ancient Greece.

Walking Up Mars Hill: The Site of Apostle Paul’s Judgment

After descending the Acropolis, the tour takes you to Mars Hill, a small hill with significant biblical history. It was once the highest point in Athens and served as the supreme court of law. The view from Mars Hill offers a sweeping panorama of the ancient Greek Agora.

Here, Apostle Paul was judged by the Athenians in 51 A.D. for proclaiming Christianity, making this a meaningful stop for those interested in the religious history of Greece and early Christianity. The short walk to Mars Hill provides a chance to reflect on this historic moment amid scenic surroundings.

The Magnitude of the Temple of Olympian Zeus

Next, the tour passes by the Temple of Zeus, once the largest temple in Greece. Though only partially preserved, the site’s massive columns and enormous footprint highlight its former grandeur.

The drive-by offers a visual reminder of Athens’ ancient architectural ambitions, and its proximity to other key sites emphasizes the city’s rich history. If desired, travelers can appreciate Hadrian’s Arch, which marks the entrance to this monumental complex.

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Panathenaic Stadium: The Birthplace of the Modern Olympics

A highlight for sports enthusiasts is a photo stop at the Panathenaic Stadium, where the first modern Olympic Games took place in 1896. The white marble stadium, reconstructed from ancient foundations, remains an iconic symbol of athletic achievement.

This site offers an opportunity to stand on the same grounds as the pioneers of the modern Olympics, with a brief 15-minute stop for photos and appreciation of Greece’s Olympic heritage.

Exploring Athens’ Architectural Treasures from Lycabettus Hill

The tour then proceeds to Lycabettus Hill, the highest point in Athens, for a 20-minute panoramic view. From this vantage point, it’s easy to see the acropolis complex, the Aegean Sea, and the sprawling city below.

The scenic drive along the National Garden and view of the changing of the guard at Parliament Square showcase modern Athens juxtaposed with its ancient past. The neoclassical buildings on Panepistimiou Street—including the University and National Library—add to the city’s architectural charm.

Lunch at a Traditional Greek Tavern

Midday, the tour offers a stop at a traditional Greek tavern, where authentic cooked dishes or fresh seafood are available. The local cuisine provides a delicious break and a chance to enjoy Greece’s culinary traditions.

This lunch stop is a relaxing pause in the busy day, with options likely to include local specialties. While the cost of food and drinks is not included**, the experience adds a taste of authentic Greek hospitality.

Crossing the Corinth Canal and Scenic Coastal Drive

After lunch, the tour heads along the coast, passing seaside villages and the island of Salamis. The highlight here is the Corinth Canal, opened in 1892, which connects the Saronic Gulf to the Corinthian Sea.

You will walk across a pedestrian bridge to admire the narrow waterway and the spectacular views. The optional bungee jump (not included in the tour price) is available for thrill-seekers, adding an adventurous twist to the sightseeing.

Visiting the Ancient City of Corinth and Its Roman Ruins

The ancient city of Corinth is characterized by the hill of Acrocorinth, which features the old castle and fortifications. The site includes the Roman Agora, Temple of Apollo, and a small museum.

The one-hour visit lets you walk through historical ruins, marvel at ancient architecture, and understand Greece’s southern history. The Kechries port, where Apostle Paul stayed before leaving for Ephesus, provides another biblical connection.

Final Stop at Kechries Port and Departure to Athens

Before returning, the tour makes a short stop at Kechries, the old port of Corinth. Here, you can see part of the underwater harbor and the church built on the site where Paul spent time before his departure.

The return drive to Athens concludes the full-day exploration, leaving plenty of time for reflection on the sites visited. The hotel drop-off ensures convenience for all travelers.

Practical Details and Booking Options

This private experience features hotel pickup and drop-off, with bottled water provided. Comfortable shoes and sun protection are recommended, especially given the moderate walking involved. The tour is wheelchair accessible, catering to a wide range of guests.

For those interested in a professional licensed guide, an additional fee of $380 applies. The skip-the-line tickets for the Acropolis and Corinth help maximize your time at key locations, and cancellation is free up to 24 hours in advance.

Booking is flexible with the option to reserve now and pay later, making it easier to plan around your travel schedule.

The Best Fit for This Tour

This full-day private tour suits history buffs, biblical scholars, and culture enthusiasts who appreciate comprehensive, personalized attention. It’s ideal for visitors who want to cover a lot of ground in one day without the hassle of self-driving or crowded group tours.

The scenic coastal drive and walking through ancient ruins balance outdoor activity with educational insights. However, travelers should be prepared for moderate walking and some time in the sun.

Saint Paul Steps Full Day Private Tour: An In-Depth Look

The Saint Paul Steps Full Day Private Tour offers a rich combination of archaeological, biblical, and cultural sites. Starting with the glorious Acropolis, the tour transitions smoothly into biblical history at Mars Hill and continues to the magnificent Corinth Canal.

The scenic coastal drive, combined with a visit to the ancient city of Corinth, creates a well-rounded picture of Greece’s historical layers. The private transport and dedicated driver give the tour a flexible, intimate feel that large group excursions can’t match.

While not including a licensed guide may be a drawback for some, the driver’s narration and extra guide availability help compensate. The 9-hour schedule remains comfortably paced, allowing ample time to enjoy each location.

Final Thoughts on the Saint Paul Steps Tour

For those interested in both ancient Greek and biblical history, this tour delivers a rundown of Athens’ most renowned sites and the biblical locations connected to Apostle Paul. The skip-the-line tickets and private transportation make for a convenient and efficient experience.

The scenic drive along the coast, the visit to the Corinth Canal, and the exploration of Corinth itself make this tour stand out. It balances cultural exploration with relaxing moments at scenic viewpoints, making it a well-rounded choice for a full-day adventure.

This tour provides excellent value for those seeking depth and personalization, especially for history and faith-driven travelers. The knowledge of the driver, combined with the fascinating sites, makes this a memorable, educational experience that covers both ancient Greece and early Christian history.

Frequently Asked Questions

Is this tour suitable for all mobility levels?
Yes, the tour is wheelchair accessible, and the moderate walking involved is manageable for most travelers with standard mobility.

Are licensed guides available for this tour?
Yes, a licensed guide can be requested for an additional $380, but the driver provides narration during the visit.

What should I bring on the tour?
Comfortable shoes, a sun hat, sunscreen, and a camera are recommended to enjoy the sites fully and stay comfortable during outdoor activities.

How long is the drive from Athens to Corinth?
The tour includes a scenic drive that covers the distance between Athens and Corinth, with stops along the way, totaling approximately 9 hours including site visits.

Can I skip the optional guide?
Yes, the tour is primarily guided by the driver, but you can opt for an official guide at extra cost if you prefer a more detailed narrative.

Is lunch included?
No, lunch is not included, but a stop at a traditional Greek tavern offers authentic dishes and fresh seafood.

What is the best time of day to book this tour?
Availability varies, so checking the schedule is recommended. Morning departures are common, giving you the full day to explore.

Are tickets for the Acropolis and Corinth included?
Yes, skip-the-line tickets are included for these sites for bookings made after January 27, 2025.

What is the maximum group size?
This experience is private, accommodating only your group for a personalized day.

How do I book this tour?
Reservations can be made with the provider, Olive Sea_Travel, with flexible options to reserve now and pay later.

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