Discover the captivating history and picturesque landscapes of Greece with the Private Mycenae and Nafplion Tour from Athens. This comprehensive 10-hour adventure whisks travelers through the iconic Corinth Canal, the legendary archaeological site of Mycenae, and the charming coastal town of Nafplion. Led by expert guides, this tour promises an engaging journey into Greece’s ancient past, complete with complimentary refreshments and the convenience of hotel pickup. Whether you’re a history buff or simply seeking an unforgettable cultural experience, this tour offers an opportunity to uncover the enduring wonders that have shaped Greece’s enduring legacy.
Key Points
- This private day trip from Athens explores the ancient ruins of Mycenae and the historic town of Nafplion, with a photo stop at the Corinth Canal.
- The tour includes hotel pickup, a knowledgeable local driver, admission fees, and 2 hours of free time in picturesque Nafplion for independent sightseeing and shopping.
- Highlights of the Mycenae visit include the iconic Lion Gate, Cyclopean walls, and panoramic views from the Acropolis, providing insights into the Mycenaean civilization.
- In Nafplion, visitors can stroll the narrow streets, browse local shops, and optionally take a boat trip to Bourtzi Castle or hike to Palamidi Castle.
- The tour offers excellent value for money, with savings of up to 19% off the regular price, free cancellation, and a ‘reserve now, pay later’ option.
Tour Overview
This private day trip from Athens to Mycenae and Nafplion spans 10 hours and saves travelers up to 19% off the regular price, with costs ranging from $215.26 to $174.36 per person.
Cancellation is free up to 24 hours in advance, and the ‘reserve now, pay later’ option is available.
Guests are picked up from their Athens hotel, where a driver will hold a sign with their last name.
The journey includes a photo stop at the Corinth Canal before exploring the archaeological site of Mycenae and strolling through the charming town of Nafplion, with an optional boat trip to Bourtzi Castle and a hike up to Palamidi Castle.
Itinerary Highlights
The tour’s itinerary highlights include pickup from your’ Athens hotel, where a driver will greet them with a sign bearing their last name.
After the pickup, the group will set off through the Peloponnese region, making a 30-minute photo stop at the Corinth Canal.
The main attraction is the archaeological site of Mycenae, where guests will spend 1.5 hours exploring the ruins, including the iconic Lion Gate.
Following Mycenae, the tour heads to Nafplion, allowing 2 hours of free time for shopping and sightseeing.
Visitors can also opt for a boat trip to Bourtzi Castle or ascend the 913 steps to Palamidi Castle for panoramic views, though these come at an additional cost.
Pickup and Travel
The tour kicks off with pickup from guests’ Athens hotels, where a driver greets them holding a sign displaying their last name before they set off through the Peloponnese region. Along the way, they’ll make a 30-minute photo stop at the iconic Corinth Canal, a marvel of engineering that connects the Gulf of Corinth with the Saronic Gulf.
| Route | Duration |
|---|---|
| Athens Hotel Pickup | – |
| Corinth Canal Photo Stop | 30 minutes |
| Travel through Peloponnese | – |
| Arrival at Mycenae | – |
| Departure for Nafplion | – |
The journey provides a scenic introduction to the historic Peloponnese, setting the stage for the day’s adventures in Mycenae and Nafplion.
Mycenae Visit
Arrival at the archaeological site of Mycenae marks the first highlight of the tour, where guests embark on an enlightening 1.5-hour exploration of this legendary citadel.
The highlights of the Mycenae visit include:
- Discovering the awe-inspiring Lion Gate, the monumental entrance to the ancient city.
- Marveling at the impressive Cyclopean walls, built with massive limestone blocks.
- Visiting the Royal Tombs, where the remains of powerful Mycenaean rulers were discovered.
- Exploring the Acropolis, the fortified heart of the city, offering panoramic views of the surrounding landscape.
- Learning about the rise and fall of the Mycenaean civilization, which dominated Greece during the Bronze Age.
An additional fee of €12 grants access to this captivating archaeological wonder.
Nafplion Experience
After exploring the ancient ruins of Mycenae, the tour continues to the charming coastal town of Nafplion, where guests are treated to 2 hours of free time for independent sightseeing and shopping.
Nafplion is known for its picturesque old town, with narrow streets, neoclassical buildings, and a lively waterfront promenade. Visitors can stroll along the seafront, browse the local shops and galleries, or enjoy a Greek coffee or lunch at one of the inviting cafes.
For those seeking a more adventurous activity, an optional boat trip to the nearby Bourtzi Castle is available. Alternatively, guests can choose to ascend the 913 steps to the top of the Palamidi Castle, which offers panoramic views of the town and the Argolic Gulf.
Inclusions
This private day trip from Athens includes hotel pickup and drop-off, an English and Greek-speaking local tour leader-driver, complimentary water and drinks, as well as all applicable taxes and service fees. Gratuities are optional.
The inclusions for this tour provide everything needed for a seamless experience:
- Hotel transportation to and from the sites
- A knowledgeable local guide to provide historical context
- Refreshments to stay hydrated throughout the day
- Admission fees for the archaeological sites and museums
- No need to worry about additional or hidden costs
With these comprehensive inclusions, travelers can focus on seeing the rich cultural heritage of Mycenae and Nafplion without having to manage logistics or unexpected expenses.
Important Information
To make the most of the private Mycenae and Nafplion tour, travelers should pack comfortable shoes, sunscreen, and extra cash for any optional activities or purchases.
The itinerary is subject to change, so participants should be flexible. Plus, the tour involves some walking, so guests should dress appropriately in comfortable clothing.
While the tour includes hotel pickup and drop-off, as well as water and drinks, travelers will need to cover the additional fees for entry to the Mycenae archaeological site and the ascent to Palamidi Castle in Nafplion.
Customer Feedback
Travelers have overwhelmingly praised the private Mycenae and Nafplion tour, giving it an impressive overall rating of 5 out of 5 based on their reviews.
Visitors have highlighted several standout aspects of the experience:
- Fascinating insights into Greek history and culture provided by the knowledgeable local tour leader-driver.
- The breathtaking scenery and architectural wonders encountered, from the Corinth Canal to the imposing Palamidi Castle.
- The perfect balance of guided exploration and free time to wander the charming streets of Nafplion.
- The convenience of hotel pickup and drop-off, making for a seamless and stress-free day.
- The excellent value for money, with many citing it as a highlight of their time in Greece.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I Request a Different Pickup Location?
Yes, you can request a different pickup location. The tour provider typically offers hotel pickup, but they may be able to accommodate a request for a different starting point if it is within a reasonable distance.
What Happens in Case of Bad Weather?
In the event of bad weather, the tour operator typically evaluates the situation and may adjust the itinerary accordingly. They’ll work to provide the best possible experience while ensuring the safety of participants.
Is There a Discount for Children or Seniors?
Children and seniors are eligible for discounted admission fees at the archaeological sites and museums on this tour. However, the overall tour price remains the same for all travelers, regardless of age.
Can I Customize the Itinerary to Meet My Interests?
Yes, the tour can be customized to meet the traveler’s interests. The private nature of the tour allows for flexibility to adjust the itinerary, activities, and focus based on the individual’s preferences.
How Do I Communicate With the Driver During the Trip?
The driver is a local tour leader who speaks both English and Greek. Travelers can communicate with the driver throughout the trip to ask questions, provide feedback, or request any changes within the tour’s itinerary parameters.
Recap
The Private Mycenae and Nafplion Tour from Athens offers an immersive journey through Greece’s ancient history.
Visitors will explore the archaeological wonders of Mycenae, marvel at the scenic Corinth Canal, and experience the charming streets of Nafplion.
With expert guidance, comfortable transportation, and included refreshments, this tour provides an unforgettable opportunity to discover the rich cultural heritage and stunning landscapes of Greece.
