Exploring the enchanting landscapes and captivating historical sites outside of Athens has long been a highlight for many visitors to Greece. This private tour offers a unique opportunity to venture beyond the bustling capital, immersing oneself in the country’s storied past. From the awe-inspiring ruins of Mycenae to the serene Blue Lake, this comprehensive day trip promises an unforgettable experience for those seeking to uncover the hidden gems that lie just beyond the city limits. With a knowledgeable guide and comfortable transportation, the stage is set for an enlightening journey through Greece’s most iconic ancient landmarks and natural wonders.
Key Points
- This private tour from Athens explores the Peloponnese region, including the Corinth Canal, Mycenae ruins, and Blue Lake.
- The tour is accompanied by a personal guide and chauffeur, providing door-to-door transportation in a private vehicle.
- Key highlights include the 19th-century Corinth Canal, the Bronze Age citadel of Mycenae, and the ancient city of Corinth.
- Visitors can swim in the striking Blue Lake and visit the Sanctuary of Hera, offering a unique blend of natural beauty and historical significance.
- The tour includes all entrance fees to archaeological sites, ensuring a seamless and immersive exploration of the Peloponnese’s historical wonders.
👉 Check out our guide to the 4 Best Canoe And Kayak Experiences In Athens
Contents
- Key Points
- Tour Overview and Highlights
- Key Locations
- Corinth Canal
- Mycenae
- Ancient Corinth
- Blue Lake and Sanctuary of Hera
- Tour Inclusions
- Customer Reviews and Ratings
- Frequently Asked Questions
- Can I Customize the Tour Itinerary to My Preferences?
- Is There a Child Discount for the Tour?
- What Should I Bring for the Swimming at Blue Lake?
- Is There an Option to Visit Additional Archaeological Sites?
- Can I Purchase Snacks or Meals 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 Overview and Highlights
This private tour from Athens to the Peloponnese region offers travelers the opportunity to discover a wealth of archaeological sites and natural wonders.
Guests will explore the iconic Corinth Canal, the ancient ruins of Mycenae, and the serene Blue Lake, accompanied by a personal guide and chauffeur.
The tour provides insider tips and a hassle-free experience, with door-to-door transportation in a private vehicle.
Highlights include the 19th-century engineering marvel of the Corinth Canal, the impressive Cyclopean Walls of Mycenae, and a chance to swim in the stunning Blue Lake.
This full-day tour encompasses a range of historical and natural attractions, delivering a comprehensive and memorable experience.
Want to keep it personal? More private experiences we love in Athens
Key Locations
The tour begins at the Corinth Canal, an impressive 19th-century engineering marvel that was crucial for Mediterranean trade.
Visitors can explore the ancient Diolkos, a trackway used for moving boats overland.
Next, the tour visits the archaeological site of Mycenae, known for its Cyclopean Walls and Grave Circles.
Travelers then head to ancient Corinth, where they can follow in the footsteps of St. Paul and enjoy the history of ancient Greek civilization.
The final stop is the serene Blue Lake and the Sanctuary of Hera, offering an opportunity to swim and visit the temple dedicated to the Greek goddess.
Corinth Canal
Spanning the Isthmus of Corinth, the 19th-century Corinth Canal is an engineering marvel that proved crucial for Mediterranean trade.
Stretching nearly 4 miles, this narrow waterway cuts through solid rock, allowing ships to bypass the dangerous journey around the Peloponnese peninsula. Visitors can stroll along the canal’s edge, peering down at the dramatic 300-foot-deep gorge below.
Adjacent to the canal, the Ancient Diolkos offers a glimpse into the past – this ancient paved trackway once enabled ships to be moved overland, a precursor to the modern canal.
Exploring these historical and engineering wonders provides insight into Corinth’s strategic significance and the feats of human ingenuity that shaped the region.
Mycenae
Mycenae, the famed Bronze Age citadel, stands as a testament to the might and ingenuity of ancient Greek civilization.
As part of the tour, visitors can explore the captivating Grave Circles A and B, where the remains of powerful Mycenaean rulers were laid to rest.
The towering Cyclopean Walls, constructed from massive limestone boulders, are a true engineering marvel.
The grand Royal Palace, once the seat of Mycenaean power, provides a glimpse into the opulent lives of the elite.
Guests can enjoy the rich history and grandeur of this UNESCO World Heritage Site, gaining a deeper understanding of the Mycenaean Empire’s cultural and architectural achievements.
Ancient Corinth
Following the path of St. Paul, visitors will have the opportunity to explore the ancient ruins of Corinth on this private tour.
Once a prominent city-state in ancient Greece, Corinth offers a glimpse into the rich history and civilization of the region.
Key highlights include:
- Seeing the remnants of the ancient Agora, the commercial and social center of the city
- Witnessing the well-preserved Temple of Apollo, dedicated to the Greek god of the sun
- Exploring the Bema, the platform where St. Paul is believed to have preached to the Corinthians
- Gaining insights into the daily lives and practices of the ancient Corinthians through the archaeological discoveries at the site.
Blue Lake and Sanctuary of Hera
After exploring the ancient ruins, the private tour takes visitors to the captivating Blue Lake and the Sanctuary of Hera.
Known for its striking azure hue, the Blue Lake offers a refreshing swimming opportunity amidst the stunning natural setting.
Nearby, the Sanctuary of Hera, dedicated to the ancient Greek goddess, provides insight into the religious practices of the region.
Visitors can wander through the ruins, imagining the rituals and ceremonies that once took place within this sacred space.
The combination of the serene lake and the historical sanctuary offers a unique and memorable experience, perfectly complementing the tour’s exploration of Mycenae and ancient Corinth.
Tour Inclusions
The private tour comes with a comprehensive set of inclusions to ensure a hassle-free and enriching experience.
Travelers will have a professional, English-speaking driver knowledgeable in Greek history to guide them throughout the day. All entrance fees to the featured archaeological sites are covered, including Mycenae, Ancient Corinth, and the Sanctuary of Hera.
Transportation in a private vehicle is provided, with the option to arrange airport pick-up and drop-off for an additional cost. While food and drinks aren’t included, the tour offers a seamless exploration of the Peloponnese region’s historical wonders and natural beauty.
- Fully private tour with professional, knowledgeable drivers
- Fluent English-speaking and multi-lingual drivers
- Entrance fees to sites included
- Optional airport pick-up/drop-off (additional cost)
Customer Reviews and Ratings
Travelers have left overwhelmingly positive reviews for this private tour, with an overall rating of 5.0 out of 5 based on 8 reviews.
Seven of the reviews awarded the tour 5 stars, while one review gave it 4 stars. Customers praised the tour’s quality, the guide’s deep knowledge of Greek history, and the overall enjoyable experience.
Highlights included the comfortable transportation, the informative and multilingual guides, and the scenic locations visited, such as the picturesque Blue Lake.
The feedback underscores the tour’s ability to provide a hassle-free and immersive exploration of Peloponnese’s archaeological sites and natural wonders.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I Customize the Tour Itinerary to My Preferences?
Yes, the tour is customizable to suit the traveler’s preferences. The tour provider offers flexibility in adjusting the itinerary and duration to meet the specific needs and interests of each customer.
Is There a Child Discount for the Tour?
Yes, the tour operator offers a child discount. Children under 12 years old receive a 20% reduction in the tour price. Families with children are welcome on this private tour.
What Should I Bring for the Swimming at Blue Lake?
For the swimming at Blue Lake, visitors should bring swimwear, towels, and water shoes. They may also want to pack sun protection, such as sunscreen and a hat, as the area may have limited shade.
Is There an Option to Visit Additional Archaeological Sites?
Yes, the tour offers the flexibility to visit additional archaeological sites in the Peloponnese region. Guests can discuss options with the guide and customize the itinerary to suit their interests and time constraints.
Can I Purchase Snacks or Meals During the Tour?
According to the tour overview, food and drinks are not included in the tour. However, there may be opportunities to purchase snacks or meals during the tour at your own expense in the visited locations.
Private Tour of Blue Lake, Temple of Hera, Mycenae, Corinth & Isthmus Canal From Athens
“Yannis picked us up on time from our apartment. He was friendly and great from the beginning. It is a long drive, but the car was clean and comfort…”
Recap
This private tour from Athens offers an immersive exploration of Greece’s captivating history and natural wonders. Travelers will marvel at the engineering feat of the Corinth Canal, uncover the archaeological marvels of Mycenae, and bask in the serene beauty of Blue Lake. Accompanied by a knowledgeable guide, this comprehensive day trip promises an unforgettable experience, blending Greece’s rich past with its breathtaking landscapes.
