Embarking on a journey through the ancient wonders of Greece, the ‘From Athens: Mycenae and Epidaurus Private Tour’ offers travelers a captivating exploration of two remarkable sites. Traversing the Corinth Canal, visitors explore the rich history and architectural marvels of the iconic Mycenae, where the legendary Tomb of Agamemnon and the imposing Cyclopean Walls await. The tour then proceeds to the ancient Theater of Epidaurus, renowned for its exceptional acoustics. With comfortable, private transportation and an English-speaking driver, this immersive experience promises to transport participants back in time, leaving them eager to uncover the deeper secrets that these ancient Greek destinations hold.
Key Points
- This private tour from Athens covers the ancient sites of Mycenae and Epidaurus, providing a comprehensive exploration of the Mycenaean and ancient Greek civilizations.
- The tour includes private, air-conditioned transportation with an English-speaking driver, flexible pickup and drop-off locations in Athens, Piraeus, and Glyfada.
- At Mycenae, visitors can discover the impressive Cyclopean walls, the iconic Lions Gate, and the tomb structures, including the Tomb of Agamemnon and the Tomb of Clytemnestra.
- The tour also includes a visit to the ancient theater of Epidaurus, renowned for its exceptional acoustics and excellent state of preservation.
- The tour duration is 9 hours, and it offers a flexible cancellation policy up to 24 hours in advance.
👉 Check out our guide to the 4 Best Canoe And Kayak Experiences In Athens
Contents
- Key Points
- Tour Details
- Itinerary
- Mycenae: Ancient Kingdom
- Tomb of Agamemnon
- Tomb of Clytemnestra
- Cyclopean Walls
- Lions Gate
- Epidaurus: Ancient Theater
- Frequently Asked Questions
- How Is the Weather Typically During the Tour?
- What Is the Cancellation Policy if I Need to Change My Dates?
- Is There an Option to Customize the Itinerary?
- Can I Bring Snacks or Drinks on the Tour?
- Are There Any Restrictions on Photography During the Tour?
- Recap
- Our Top Picks in Athens
- More Private Tours in Athens
- More Tours in Athens
- More Tour Reviews in Athens
- Not for you? Here's more things to do in Athens we have recnetly reviewed
Tour Details
The tour package includes a private, air-conditioned VIP van or car with an English-speaking driver, covering all taxes, tolls, and fuel for the 9-hour duration.
Travelers can choose from three pickup locations in Pireas, Glyfada, or Athens, and be dropped off at their preferred destination in Glyfada, Pireas, or Athens.
This comprehensive tour allows visitors to explore the ancient wonders of Mycenae and Epidaurus at their own pace, with ample time allotted for each site.
The tour offers the flexibility of free cancellation up to 24 hours in advance, and the convenience of reserving now and paying later, making it an attractive option for those seeking an enriching cultural experience.
Want to keep it personal? More private experiences we love in Athens
Itinerary
Commencing the tour, visitors first traverse the Corinth Canal for a 15-minute stop, providing a scenic introduction to the day’s journey.
Afterward, they explore the archaeological wonders of Mycenae, spending 2.5 hours exploring the powerful kingdom’s Cyclopean walls, the iconic Lions Gate, and the onsite museum.
The tour then transitions to the Ancient Theater of Epidaurus, where travelers spend another 2.5 hours marveling at the 4th-century-BC structure renowned for its exceptional acoustics.
Conveniently, the tour offers three pickup locations in Pireas, Glyfada, and Athens, as well as three drop-off points in Glyfada, Pireas, and Athens, ensuring flexibility for participants.
Mycenae: Ancient Kingdom
Mycenae was a powerful ancient kingdom that flourished for over 400 years, from around 1600 to 1200 BC. Dominating the Argolid region of the Peloponnese peninsula, it was a major center of Hellenic civilization, renowned for its impressive Cyclopean walls, the iconic Lions Gate, and the impressive tomb structures that dot the landscape.
Visitors can explore the ruins of the ancient citadel, including the well-preserved tomb of Agamemnon and the tomb of Clytemnestra. The archaeological museum on-site offers a fascinating glimpse into the wealth and sophistication of this lost kingdom.
Towering over the surrounding countryside, the remains of Mycenae stand as a testament to the grandeur and might of this once-mighty ancient Greek civilization.
Tomb of Agamemnon
Within the archaeological site of Mycenae, one can find the impressive ‘Tomb of Agamemnon’, also known as the ‘Treasury of Atreus‘. This massive, domed structure, constructed around 1250 BC, is considered one of the most significant examples of Mycenaean architecture and engineering prowess.
The tomb’s entrance is marked by a monumental facade, and the interior features a grand, vaulted chamber that was likely used for burial rituals and ceremonies.
Experts believe the tomb was built to commemorate Agamemnon, the legendary king of Mycenae and commander of the Greek forces during the Trojan War.
Visitors can marvel at the tomb’s intricate stonework and gain insights into the sophisticated burial practices of the Mycenaean civilization.
More Great Tours NearbyTomb of Clytemnestra
Along With the famous Tomb of Agamemnon, the archaeological site of Mycenae also houses the impressive Tomb of Clytemnestra, another significant example of Mycenaean funerary architecture.
Constructed around 1250 BC, this monumental, domed structure was likely built to commemorate Clytemnestra, the legendary queen of Mycenae and wife of Agamemnon, who was known for her pivotal role in the events surrounding the Trojan War.
The Tomb of Clytemnestra features:
- A distinctive beehive-shaped design, characteristic of Mycenaean tombs.
- Intricate stone masonry and architectural details.
- A grand entrance and chamber, measuring over 14 meters in diameter.
- Impressive acoustics, showcasing the advanced engineering of the ancient Mycenaeans.
Cyclopean Walls
The Cyclopean walls of Mycenae stand as a testament to the impressive engineering prowess of the ancient Mycenaean civilization, their massive limestone blocks carefully fitted together without the use of mortar to create an imposing fortification system that has endured for centuries. These formidable walls, some measuring up to 13 feet (4 meters) thick, were built using a technique known as "Cyclopean masonry," where enormous boulders were precisely cut and interlocked to form a sturdy, impenetrable barrier.
| Cyclopean Wall Features | |
|---|---|
| Height | Up to 13 feet (4m) |
| Construction Technique | Cyclopean Masonry |
| Purpose | Fortification |
| Material | Limestone |
The scale and complexity of the Cyclopean walls at Mycenae continue to impress and inspire visitors, standing as a remarkable example of the advanced engineering capabilities of the Mycenaean people.
Lions Gate
One of the most iconic and well-preserved structures at the archaeological site of Mycenae is the impressive Lions Gate, a towering entryway that has stood as a symbol of the Mycenaean civilization’s power and grandeur for over 3,000 years.
This magnificent bronze-adorned gateway features two majestic carved lion statues perched above the entrance, a motif that was deeply significant in Mycenaean culture.
Visitors can marvel at the sheer size and intricate craftsmanship of this architectural masterpiece, which stands as a testament to the ingenuity and technical prowess of the ancient Mycenaeans.
The Lions Gate offers a glimpse into the past, transporting visitors back to a time when Mycenae reigned as a mighty kingdom.
Epidaurus: Ancient Theater
Situated just a short distance from the impressive archaeological site of Mycenae, the ancient theater of Epidaurus stands as a remarkable architectural and cultural gem from the Classical Greek era. Built in the 4th century BC, this limestone amphitheater is renowned for its stunning acoustics, which allowed audiences of up to 14,000 people to hear performances with remarkable clarity.
| Capacity | Acoustics | Date |
|---|---|---|
| 14,000 | Renowned | 4th century BC |
The theater’s excellent state of preservation and unique design make it a must-visit destination for anyone interested in the legacy of ancient Greek culture and its enduring influence. Visitors can marvel at the theater’s impressive scale and imagine the powerful performances that once captivated audiences in this extraordinary setting.
Frequently Asked Questions
How Is the Weather Typically During the Tour?
The weather is typically mild and sunny during the tour, with average temperatures ranging from 18-25°C (64-77°F). Visitors should dress in lightweight, comfortable clothing and bring sunscreen and a hat to protect against the Mediterranean sun.
What Is the Cancellation Policy if I Need to Change My Dates?
The tour offers free cancellation up to 24 hours in advance, allowing customers the flexibility to change their dates if needed. Customers can simply reserve now and pay later to secure their spot.
Is There an Option to Customize the Itinerary?
The tour provider generally offers a set itinerary, but some flexibility may be possible. Customers can inquire about customizing the tour or adjusting the duration at certain sites to better suit their interests.
Can I Bring Snacks or Drinks on the Tour?
Yes, passengers can bring their own snacks and drinks on the tour. The private van or car has ample space for guests to store and enjoy their personal refreshments during the day-long excursion.
Are There Any Restrictions on Photography During the Tour?
Typically, there are few restrictions on photography during tours of historical sites, but visitors should be mindful of any specific rules or guidelines. Checking with the tour operator beforehand is recommended to ensure an enjoyable and respectful experience.
From Athens: Mycenae and Epidaurus Private Tour
“Great!”
Recap
This private tour provides a captivating journey through the ancient Greek sites of Mycenae and Epidaurus.
Travelers will marvel at the iconic Lions Gate, the grand Tomb of Agamemnon, and the exceptional acoustics of the ancient Theater of Epidaurus.
With comfortable transportation and an expert guide, visitors can enjoy the rich history and architectural wonders of these renowned Peloponnese destinations.
You can check availability for your dates here:
