The Ancient Corinth Saint Paul Step & Thermal Spa Tour offers a captivating way to explore the rich history and cultural significance of this iconic Greek city. From the storied Daphni Monastery to the towering Acrocorinth, you will explore the footsteps of Saint Paul and uncover the profound impact of his teachings. But the journey doesn’t end there – a rejuvenating experience at the renowned Loutraki Thermal Spa awaits, providing a perfect balance of culture and relaxation. With knowledgeable guides and a personalized approach, this tour promises to leave visitors with a deeper understanding of Ancient Corinth’s enduring legacy.
Key Points
- Immersive exploration of Ancient Corinth, including visits to sites significant for Saint Paul’s teachings, such as the archaeological site and the Corinth Canal.
- Experience the Byzantine heritage at the Daphni Monastery and the historical importance of Acrocorinth, an ancient fortified city.
- Conclude the tour with a relaxing spa experience at the Loutraki Thermal Spa, featuring warm, mineral-rich waters.
- Tour priced at €123.25 per person with a maximum group size of 8 to ensure a personalized and intimate experience.
- Positive customer feedback highlights the knowledgeable guides, well-organized itinerary, and overall satisfaction with the tour experience.
Tour Overview and Details
This tour offers an immersive exploration of Ancient Corinth, providing visitors with the opportunity to retrace the footsteps of Saint Paul while also experiencing the restorative benefits of the Loutraki Thermal Spa. The 12-hour journey includes visits to the Daphni Monastery, the Corinth Canal, the Acrocorinth, and the archaeological site of Ancient Corinth, where Saint Paul preached.
Participants can also enjoy a stop at the Heraion site and a relaxing soak at the Loutraki Thermal Spa. Priced from €123.25 per person, the tour offers free cancellation and a reserve now, pay later option.
With a maximum group size of 8, the tour ensures a personalized and intimate experience led by knowledgeable guides.
Itinerary Highlights
Visiting the 11th-century Daphni Monastery kicks off the tour, allowing participants a brief yet insightful glimpse into the region’s Byzantine heritage.
Following this, the tour continues with a photo stop at the Corinth Canal, a 19th-century engineering marvel that serves as the gateway to the Peloponnese peninsula.
Next, the group will explore the ancient city of Corinth, a significant site associated with the teachings of Saint Paul. After a photo stop and sightseeing in Ancient Corinth, visitors can enjoy a lunch at their own expense.
The tour then moves on to the archaeological site of Heraion, before concluding with a relaxing experience at the Loutraki Thermal Spa, where guests can enjoy the therapeutic waters.
Historical and Cultural Significance
Ancient Corinth was the richest city of ancient Greece, attracting conquerors throughout history, including the Knights Templar, Venetians, Romans, Ottomans, Byzantines, and even Saint Paul.
The Daphni Monastery, a notable 11th-century structure, stands as a testament to the region’s Byzantine heritage.
The Corinth Canal, an engineering marvel of the 19th century, serves as a gateway to the Peloponnese peninsula.
Atop the Acrocorinth, visitors can explore a historical castle associated with various civilizations and mythical figures.
At the archaeological site of Ancient Corinth, travelers can discover the remnants of the Temple of Apollo, a significant location for Saint Paul’s teachings.
Thermal Spa Experience
Visitors can enjoy the Loutraki Thermal Spa, where the water temperature is a comfortable 32°C (89.6°F). They can indulge in hydromassage sessions lasting either 20 minutes for €10 or 30 minutes for €16.
The thermal spa offers a rejuvenating experience, with the warm, mineral-rich waters providing soothing relief for tired muscles and joints. After exploring the historical sites of Ancient Corinth, this relaxing thermal spa visit is a perfect way to unwind and recharge.
Guests can enjoy the tranquil surroundings, allowing the therapeutic waters to promote relaxation and well-being. The thermal spa experience is an integral part of this comprehensive tour, offering a truly holistic exploration of the region’s history and natural wonders.
Customer Feedback and Reviews
Overwhelmingly positive reviews from past participants speak to the success of this comprehensive Ancient Corinth tour, with a perfect 5/5 rating based on 5 evaluations.
Travelers consistently praise the tour’s knowledgeable guides, who skillfully bring the region’s rich history to life through engaging commentary.
The intimate group size, limited to just 8 participants, allows for personalized attention and a more immersive experience.
Guests highlight the well-organized itinerary, which seamlessly blends visits to significant archaeological sites with the relaxing thermal spa experience.
Daphni Monastery Visit
The tour kicks off with a visit to the 11th-century Daphni Monastery, a notable structure that showcases the region’s rich Byzantine heritage.
Nestled just outside of Athens, the monastery’s stunning architecture and well-preserved mosaics captivate visitors.
As the group explores the site, the guide provides insightful commentary on the monastery’s historical significance and the artistic techniques used in its construction.
The visit offers a glimpse into the Byzantine era, transporting participants back in time and setting the tone for the rest of the immersive tour.
This 20-minute stop allows travelers to appreciate the cultural and architectural treasures that have endured through the centuries in this remarkable corner of Greece.
Corinth Canal Photo Stop
After exploring the tranquil Daphni Monastery, the tour makes a brief stop at the awe-inspiring Corinth Canal, a 19th-century engineering marvel that serves as the gateway to the Peloponnese peninsula.
Spanning 6 kilometers in length and 21 meters in depth, the Corinth Canal is an impressive sight. Connecting the Gulf of Corinth with the Saronic Gulf, it dramatically shortens the sea route between the Ionian and Aegean Seas.
Participants will have around 15 minutes to admire the canal’s steep limestone walls and take photographs of this impressive feat of human ingenuity.
The stop provides a brief respite before continuing the journey to the next destination, the ancient city of Corinth.
Acrocorinth Exploration
From the Corinth Canal, the tour journeys onwards to the awe-inspiring Acrocorinth, the ancient fortified city that stands as a testament to the region’s rich history.
Towering above the surrounding landscape, Acrocorinth is a must-visit destination for history enthusiasts. Visitors can explore the well-preserved ruins and imagine the grandeur of this former stronghold, which has been occupied by a succession of civilizations, including the Greeks, Romans, Byzantines, and Ottomans.
The tour allows ample time for sightseeing and photography, enabling guests to fully enjoy the captivating atmosphere of this iconic historical site. The Acrocorinth experience is truly a highlight of the Ancient Corinth tour.
- Iconic ancient fortified city
- Occupied by multiple civilizations
- Stunning views from the hilltop
Frequently Asked Questions
Is the Tour Available on All Days of the Week?
The tour’s availability on all days of the week is not specified in the given information. The details provided do not indicate whether the tour runs on a daily basis or has specific operating days.
Are There Any Discounts for Senior Citizens or Students?
The tour provider offers discounts for seniors and students, typically ranging from 5-10% off the standard price. However, the exact discount amounts may vary, so customers should inquire about specific discount details when booking the tour.
Can I Customize the Itinerary Based on My Preferences?
Yes, the tour can be customized based on the customer’s preferences. The tour operator is usually open to modifying the itinerary to accommodate specific interests or needs, subject to availability and feasibility.
How Much Additional Time Is Needed for Optional Activities?
The tour allows 2 hours for optional activities at the Loutraki Thermal Spa, with hydromassage sessions available for an additional fee. Visitors can allocate this time as they prefer to enjoy the thermal waters and amenities.
Are There Any Age Restrictions or Requirements for the Thermal Spa?
There are no age restrictions for the thermal spa. However, children under 12 must be accompanied by an adult. Swimwear is required, and the spa’s hydromassage services are available for an additional fee.
Recap
The Ancient Corinth Saint Paul Step & Thermal Spa Tour offers an immersive cultural experience followed by a rejuvenating spa visit.
Participants explore significant historical sites linked to Saint Paul’s teachings, before indulging in the therapeutic thermal waters of Loutraki.
This well-rounded tour provides a perfect balance of education and relaxation, with personalized attention from knowledgeable guides.