Ancient Corinth; Walking in Apostle Paul’s footsteps

Exploring Ancient Corinth: Walking in Apostle Paul’s Footsteps

If you’re curious about the biblical and historical significance of Corinth, this guided tour offers a rare chance to walk where Apostle Paul did over two millennia ago. The experience covers a broad swath of history—from the ancient Greek citadel to the Roman-era ruins, and even into the Orthodox Christian basilica. With a friendly, knowledgeable guide of Greek descent leading the way, you’ll enjoy stories that bring the stones and sights to life.

Two things I particularly loved about this tour: first, the chance to see the Corinth Canal and realize how it transformed trade and travel. The second is the visit to the basilica of Saints Peter and Paul, where the stunning artwork within recalls centuries of Orthodox Christian devotion. One thing to keep in mind is that the tour involves quite a bit of walking and some uneven terrain, so it’s best suited for those with comfortable shoes and good mobility.

While the tour is packed with fascinating sights, it’s worth noting that it runs around 7 hours—including transportation. That means dedicating a good portion of your day, but the value of the sights and stories makes it a worthwhile investment.

Key Points / Takeaways

• Focused on Apostle Paul’s journey: Ideal for biblical history enthusiasts wanting a detailed walk through his time in Corinth.
• Includes transportation: Travel from Athens in a comfortable private vehicle with a professional chauffeur-guide.
• Authentic Greek guides: Guides are of Greek descent, adding a layer of local authenticity and nuanced storytelling.
• Rich mix of sites: From ancient ruins and the Corinth Canal to the Orthodox basilica, offering diverse historical perspectives.
• Taste of local culture: End the tour with a traditional Greek tavern lunch, which makes the experience more immersive.
• Good value for a full-day tour: Entrance fees, transport, and expert guiding included, making it a comprehensive package.

How This Tour Brings History to Life

Walking along the ancient roads of Corinth, I could almost hear the footsteps of traders, soldiers, and apostles alike. The tour kicks off with a pickup from Athens—an easy, stress-free start—and within an hour and a half, you’re in the Peloponnese. The drive itself is comfortable, with a knowledgeable guide sharing insights about the region’s strategic importance and its layered history.

Once in Corinth, the guided walk introduces you to ancient Isthmus ruins, revealing how this narrow land mass was a hub of commerce long before the canal was built. The Corinth Canal, which you’ll see from above, is a marvel—carved through limestone to connect the Aegean and Ionian seas. While you might find the canal modest compared to modern marvels, its historical importance is undeniable.

Walking in Apostle Paul’s Shoes

The highlight for many is the visit to the basilica of Saints Peter and Paul. Walking inside, I was struck by the extraordinary Orthodox artwork and the sense of spiritual continuity. Many reviews highlight that, despite the basilica’s modest size, the interior’s artistry and atmosphere are captivating—an authentic reflection of the faith that has thrived here for centuries.

The guided tour through the ruins of ancient Corinth is another highlight. Walking the ancient road that led to the port of Kenchreos, I learned of the bustling trade that once flowed through this city. The original baptismal font at Kenchreos, where Apostle Paul baptized early followers, is a tangible connection to biblical stories—an especially meaningful moment for those with a religious or historical interest.

The Acropolis and the Ancient Citadel

Next, the ascent to the Acropolis reveals a site originally built by the Greeks, but layered over by various civilizations, including Romans and Byzantines. The views from the top are stunning, offering a panoramic photo opportunity. The ruins here whisper tales of political power, religious devotion, and warfare—each layer adding depth to the site’s story.

Local Flavor and Authenticity

The tour wraps up with a meal at a traditional Greek tavern near the Acropolis. It’s a great way to relax and reflect on what you’ve seen, while enjoying local dishes. Many reviewers appreciate this touch, describing the meal as a genuine taste of the region’s hospitality.

Practical Details and Logistics

This tour is perfect if you’re comfortable with a full day of walking and don’t mind some uneven terrain at the ruins. The private group setting ensures a personalized experience, and the English-speaking guides deliver stories with warmth and insight—not just dry facts.

Transportation is by comfortable vehicle, with pickup available from any location within Athens, which makes logistics simple. The tour duration is about 7 hours, so it’s best suited for those who want a comprehensive, in-depth experience without rushing.

Cost-wise, the price includes entrance fees into ancient Corinth, transportation, and guiding, which offers good value considering the depth of the experience. Extras like meals, personal expenses, and tips are not included but are easy to arrange locally.

Who Is This Tour For?

It’s ideal for history buffs, religious travelers, or anyone with a curiosity for biblical stories brought to life on ancient soil. If you dislike extensive walking or have mobility issues, this might be less suitable, given the terrain and duration. But for those eager to piece together the biblical and archaeological puzzle of Corinth, this tour delivers.

The Sum Up

This guided tour of Ancient Corinth offers a rich, authentic look at a key spot in biblical and Greek history. The combination of archaeological sites, stunning views, and meaningful storytelling makes it stand out as a full-day experience. The guides’ local background and the inclusion of transportation make it convenient and engaging, especially for travelers interested in history, religion, or Greek culture.

While it’s a long day, the chance to walk where Apostle Paul once did and see firsthand the relics of ancient trade, faith, and power makes it well worth the effort. It’s most suited to travelers who enjoy walking and want a comprehensive, well-organized itinerary that covers both history and cultural flavor.

If you’re looking for a deep dive into Corinth’s biblical significance with a relaxed, private setting, this tour ticks all the boxes.

FAQ

Is transportation included?
Yes, transportation from Athens and back is included, with pickup at your preferred location, making the logistics straightforward.

How long is the tour?
The full experience lasts about 7 hours, including driving, sightseeing, and a meal.

Are entrance fees covered?
Yes, the cost includes entrance fees into ancient Corinth, ensuring you won’t need to pay extra on-site.

Is the tour suitable for children or those with mobility issues?
It’s best for those who can handle quite a bit of walking and uneven terrain. It’s not suitable for people with mobility impairments or wheelchair users.

What should I bring?
Bring comfortable shoes, sunglasses, sunscreen, a camera, cash, and a water bottle to stay hydrated.

Can I customize the pickup location?
Yes, pickup is available anywhere within Athens or Corinth, offering flexibility.

Is lunch included?
No, but a traditional Greek tavern is part of the experience, where you can enjoy local dishes after the tour.

What’s the best time to take this tour?
Check available start times; mornings or early afternoons generally work well, especially in the warmer months when the sun is strong.