Explore the ancient wonders of Corinth on a private full-day tour. Marvel at the Corinth Canal‘s impressive engineering, then explore the ruins of Ancient Corinth, including the Temple of Apollo and the Bema where St. Paul preached. Scale the fortified citadel of Akrokorinthos for panoramic vistas. Discover Loutraki’s picturesque harbor, thermal springs, and Greek architecture. Finally, visit the serene sanctuary of Hera in Perachora. This comprehensive tour provides bottled water, snacks, and a knowledgeable local guide, transporting you through Corinth’s storied past. To learn more about the tour’s inclusions and highlights, keep reading.
Key Points
- This full-day private tour offers a comprehensive exploration of the ancient ruins and landmarks of Corinth, including the famous Corinth Canal and the Archaeological Museum.
- The tour includes stops at the highlights of Ancient Corinth, such as the Temple of Apollo, the Roman Agora, and the Bema where St. Paul preached.
- Visitors will also explore the impressive fortified citadel of Akrokorinthos, offering panoramic views of the surrounding countryside and the Corinthian Gulf.
- The tour includes a visit to the charming harbor town of Loutraki, known for its thermal springs, traditional Greek architecture, and opportunities for outdoor activities.
- The tour concludes with a stop at the Heraion, the sanctuary of the goddess Hera, featuring well-preserved ruins of the 6th century BCE Temple of Hera.
Tour Details
This private tour of Ancient Corinth spans 8 hours and accommodates a small group size.
The tour is conducted in English, with pickups and drop-offs available from Athens, Piraeus, or the Athens International Airport.
Over the course of the day, guests will explore the Corinth Canal, the ruins of Ancient Corinth, the impressive fortress of Akrokorinthos, the seaside town of Loutraki, and the Sanctuary of Hera in Perachora.
Along the way, they’ll enjoy bottled water, snacks, and soda, as well as the comfort of an air-conditioned vehicle and the expertise of a local guide.
The tour includes liability insurance, but excludes entrance fees and dinner, and isn’t suitable for wheelchair users or those over 70 years of age.
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Itinerary
The tour starts with a 20-minute stop at the Corinth Canal, an impressive feat of engineering that connects the Gulf of Corinth with the Saronic Gulf. Guests will have the opportunity to admire the striking views from the top of the canal before moving on to the next destination.
The itinerary then includes:
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A 1-hour visit to Ancient Corinth, where visitors can explore the impressive ruins of the ancient city, including the Temple of Apollo and the Roman Agora.
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A 50-minute stop at Akrokorinthos, the ancient fortified town on the acropolis overlooking Corinth.
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A 40-minute visit to the town of Loutraki, where guests can see the Moni Osiou Patapiou, a historic monastery.
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A 40-minute stop at the Heraion, the sanctuary of the goddess Hera in Perachora.
Corinth Canal
The Corinth Canal is an impressive feat of engineering that connects the Gulf of Corinth with the Saronic Gulf, cutting through the narrow Isthmus of Corinth and providing a vital waterway for shipping between the Ionian and Aegean Seas. The canal is 6.4 kilometers long, 24 meters wide, and 8 meters deep, and its construction was a challenging endeavor that took over 100 years to complete. Visitors can marvel at the sheer scale of this engineering marvel, and enjoy the breathtaking views of the steep limestone cliffs that line the canal’s banks.
| Fact | Value |
|---|---|
| Length | 6.4 km |
| Width | 24 m |
| Depth | 8 m |
| Construction Period | Over 100 years |
Ancient Corinth
Situated just 5 kilometers southwest of the modern city, Ancient Corinth’s storied ruins showcase the grandeur and importance of this once-thriving metropolis that played a pivotal role in ancient Greek history.
Visitors can explore the remains of the iconic Doric Temple of Apollo, the ancient Roman Agora, and the well-preserved Lechaion Road, a main thoroughfare lined with the foundations of shops and public buildings.
Key attractions include:
- The Archaelogical Museum, home to an impressive collection of ancient artifacts and sculptures
- The Fountain of Peirene, a renowned ancient spring that provided water to the city
- The Bema, the rostrum from which St. Paul is said to have preached
- The Acrocorinth, the towering acropolis that served as the ancient city’s fortified citadel
Akrokorinthos
Towering high above Ancient Corinth, Akrokorinthos commands an imposing presence as the ancient city’s fortified citadel. This monumental acropolis has long served as a strategic stronghold, its steep limestone cliffs and formidable defensive walls deterring would-be invaders for centuries.
Visitors can explore the extensive ruins and relics scattered across its rugged terrain, which include the remains of temples, sanctuaries, and Byzantine fortifications that bear witness to Akrokorinthos’ enduring significance in the region’s history.
Atop the towering summit, panoramic vistas afford stunning views of the surrounding countryside and the sparkling Corinthian Gulf below. The site’s combination of archaeological wonders and breathtaking natural scenery makes Akrokorinthos a highlight of any visit to Ancient Corinth.
Loutraki
Nestled along the scenic shores of the Corinthian Gulf, the coastal town of Loutraki enchants visitors with its picturesque harbor, bustling promenade, and therapeutic thermal springs.
A popular wellness destination, Loutraki boasts:
- Luxurious spa resorts offering relaxing treatments and hydrotherapy
- A charming old town with traditional Greek architecture and quaint cafes
- The Moni Osiou Patapiou monastery, a celebrated religious site
- Opportunities for outdoor activities like hiking, cycling, and water sports
Travelers can unwind in the town’s thermal baths, explore its historical landmarks, and savor the local cuisine, making Loutraki a delightful stop on the Ancient Corinth tour.
Heraion
The Heraion, or Sanctuary of Hera, stands as a renowned archaeological site within the Perachora peninsula, showcasing the grandeur of ancient Greek religious architecture and the reverence held for the goddess Hera.
Visitors can explore the well-preserved ruins of the Temple of Hera, dating back to the 6th century BCE, which once housed an impressive statue of the goddess.
The site also features the remains of various other structures, including altars, storerooms, and a sacred spring, offering a glimpse into the rituals and offerings made by ancient worshippers.
With its serene natural setting overlooking the Gulf of Corinth, the Heraion provides a tranquil and contemplative experience, allowing visitors to connect with the rich history and spiritual significance of this important Hera sanctuary.
Inclusions and Exclusions
The tour package typically includes:
- Hotel pick-up and drop-off
- Bottled water and snacks/soda
- An air-conditioned vehicle
- WiFi on board
- Liability insurance coverage
However, the tour doesn’t include:
- Tickets for monuments and historical places, as the tour provider doesn’t have the necessary licenses to provide guided tours.
- Dinner, which isn’t provided as part of the tour.
- Accessibility for wheelchair users and people over 70 years of age, as the tour may not be suitable for those with mobility limitations.
The tour is designed to provide a comprehensive exploration of the ancient sites, with the exclusions allowing for flexibility and a focus on the key highlights of the itinerary.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I Modify the Itinerary to Include Additional Sites?
Absolutely, the tour itinerary can be modified to include additional sites. The tour provider is flexible and welcomes customization requests to ensure the tour meets the traveler’s specific interests and preferences.
Do I Need to Bring Any Special Equipment for the Tour?
Participants don’t need any special equipment for this tour. The tour provider will handle transportation and provide bottled water and snacks. Comfortable walking shoes are recommended to explore the ancient sites comfortably.
Are There Any Safety Precautions I Should Be Aware Of?
Travelers should wear sturdy, comfortable shoes and bring sun protection like hats and sunscreen. They should also stay hydrated and follow guide instructions, as some sites may have uneven terrain or other potential risks.
Can the Tour Be Customized for Specific Interests or Needs?
The tour can be customized to accommodate specific interests or needs. Travelers can request modifications to the itinerary, add or remove stops, and adjust the pace to suit their preferences with the tour provider’s guidance.
What Is the Policy for Cancellations or Changes to the Tour?
The tour’s cancellation policy allows for full refunds up to 72 hours in advance. Changes to the itinerary can be accommodated, subject to availability and any additional fees. Cancellations within 72 hours may incur penalties.
Recap
This captivating full-day private tour immerses visitors in the rich history and stunning landscapes of Ancient Corinth.
From the impressive Corinth Canal to the well-preserved ruins of Ancient Corinth and the impressive fortress of Akrokorinthos, the tour offers an unparalleled glimpse into the past.
Complemented by visits to the serene Sanctuary of Hera and the charming town of Loutraki, this immersive experience promises an unforgettable day of exploration and adventure for history buffs and nature lovers alike.
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