Uncover the rich history and stunning landscapes of Greece on this VIP day tour from Athens. Embark on an unforgettable trek through the ancient ruins of Mycenae and Corinth, marveling at the iconic Corinth Canal and indulging in local cuisine. With a guided exploration of these archaeological wonders, you’ll explore the legacy of the Mycenaean civilization and discover the captivating stories that have shaped Greece’s past. Don’t miss the chance to experience this unique opportunity and learn about the country’s cultural heritage.
Key Points
- A 12-hour VIP day tour from Athens exploring the Corinth Canal, Ancient Corinth, a vineyard trek, and the archaeological sites of Mycenae and Nafplio.
- The tour includes a 2.5-hour trek through olive tree valleys and ancient ruins, offering panoramic views and insights into the Mycenaean civilization.
- Visitors can admire the engineering marvel of the Corinth Canal, discover the mythological heritage of Ancient Corinth, and explore the historic sights of Mycenae and Nafplio.
- The tour features a flexible booking policy, free cancellation up to 24 hours in advance, and a cost starting from £247.76 per person.
- The itinerary highlights provide a glimpse into the enduring legacy of ancient Greece, with opportunities to explore significant historical sites and cultural landmarks.
Tour Overview
The VIP Day Tour From Athens: Mycenae & Ancient Corinth TREK offers a comprehensive 12-hour excursion, including pickup from accommodations in Athens and a private group experience with a live English-speaking guide.
The tour costs from £247.76 per person and features a flexible booking policy, allowing you to reserve now and pay later. Cancellations are free up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund.
During the tour, you’ll explore the Corinth Canal, Ancient Corinth, a vineyard trek, the Mycenae Archaeological Site, and the historic town of Nafplio, with opportunities for sightseeing, hiking, and local food sampling.
Itinerary Highlights
Visitors begin their VIP Day Tour with a 20-minute stop at the Corinth Canal, marveling at the impressive engineering feat that connects the Gulf of Corinth with the Saronic Gulf.
Next, they spend an hour exploring the ancient ruins and historic sights of Ancient Corinth.
This is followed by a 2.5-hour vineyard trek through olive tree valleys and ancient landscapes leading to the Mycenae Archaeological Site.
Here, they’ll have an hour to discover the kingdom of Agamemnon, the legendary leader during the Trojan War, known for its ‘rich in gold’ reputation.
After Mycenae, the tour takes them to Nafplio, where they’ll have 2 hours to explore, shop, and indulge in local snacks before the 2-hour journey back to Athens.
Historical Context
Exploring the historical context of the tour, one discovers the Mycenaean civilization, known as the ‘Rich in Gold’ kingdom led by Agamemnon, who commanded the Greek forces during the legendary Trojan War.
Plus, the ancient city of Corinth has a rich mythological heritage, as the first kings of the city were descendants of the mythical figure Sisyphos, whose tale of hubris is well-known.
The tour also visits Nafplio, the first capital of modern Greece, featuring the impressive Palamidi Castle and the picturesque Bourtzi Fortress, which provide insight into the region’s storied past.
Exploring these historically significant sites offers a glimpse into the enduring legacy of ancient Greece.
Trekking Experience
This VIP day tour offers a captivating trekking experience, guiding participants through olive tree valleys and ancient ruins leading to the archaeological site of Mycenae. Along the way, they’ll encounter the iconic Lions Gate, the tomb of Clytemnestra, the impressive Cyclopean Walls, and the awe-inspiring treasury of Atreus, providing a glimpse into the grandeur of the Mycenaean civilization.
Trekkers will also have the chance to observe ships passing through the Corinthian Gulf from the Acropolis of Corinth, offering stunning panoramic views. The overall trekking route allows visitors to enjoy the rich historical and cultural legacy of these ancient sites.
| Trekking Highlights |
|---|
| Lions Gate |
| Tomb of Clytemnestra |
| Cyclopean Walls |
| Treasury of Atreus |
| Acropolis of Corinth |
Corinth Canal
The Corinth Canal offers a captivating sight, as visitors can witness ships traversing the narrow waterway that separates mainland Greece from the Peloponnese peninsula.
Stretching for nearly 4 miles, the canal was an engineering marvel of its time, completed in the late 19th century. Towering limestone cliffs frame the canal, providing a dramatic backdrop for this unique geographic feature.
During the tour, guests will have the opportunity to spend 20 minutes admiring the canal’s impressive scale and exploring the surrounding area.
Whether it’s observing the passage of vessels or simply taking in the picturesque landscape, the Corinth Canal is a highlight of the day’s itinerary and a testament to human ingenuity.
Ancient Corinth
After witnessing the engineering marvel of the Corinth Canal, the tour moves on to explore the ancient ruins and rich history of Ancient Corinth, one of the most significant cities in ancient Greece.
Visitors will spend an hour sightseeing and hiking through the remains of this once-thriving metropolis. They’ll learn about its Corinthian mythology, including the tales of Sisyphos and his descendants who ruled the city.
The tour also provides stunning viewpoints from the Acropolis of Corinth, allowing visitors to observe ships passing through the Corinthian Gulf.
This immersive experience offers a glimpse into the grandeur and legacy of Ancient Corinth, a crucial part of the Mycenaean civilization.
Mycenae Archaeological Site
Situated within the ruins of the once-flourishing Mycenaean civilization, the Mycenae Archaeological Site stands as a testament to the grandeur and power of this ancient kingdom, led by the legendary figure of Agamemnon.
Visitors to this iconic site can explore the impressive Cyclopean Walls, the tomb of the powerful Queen Clytemnestra, and the awe-inspiring Treasury of Atreus, a remarkable feat of engineering and architectural prowess.
The site’s iconic Lions Gate, guarding the entrance to the ancient citadel, offers a glimpse into the rich cultural and mythological heritage of the Mycenaeans.
As part of the VIP Day Tour, travelers will have the opportunity to enjoy this captivating historical landscape and gain a deeper understanding of the Mycenaean legacy.
Nafplio
Nafplio, the first capital of modern Greece, features the impressive Palamidi Castle and the picturesque Bourtzi Fortress, both of which offer stunning views of the surrounding Argolic Gulf. Visitors can explore the historic city’s charming old town, filled with neoclassical buildings, narrow streets, and vibrant cafes. After the tour of Mycenae and Ancient Corinth, the VIP day tour provides 2 hours of free time in Nafplio for shopping, sightseeing, and indulging in local snacks.
| Attraction | Description | Highlights |
|---|---|---|
| Palamidi Castle | Hilltop fortress with 999 steps | Panoramic views of Nafplio and the Argolic Gulf |
| Bourtzi Fortress | Islet fortification in the Nafplio harbor | Picturesque setting and historic significance |
| Old Town | Charming neoclassical architecture | Narrow streets, boutiques, and cafes |
| Local Snacks | Traditional Greek delicacies | Opportunity to savor the local cuisine |
Frequently Asked Questions
How Physically Demanding Is the Trekking Portion of the Tour?
The trekking portion of the tour involves hiking for around 2.5 hours through olive tree valleys and ancient ruins. It’s considered moderately challenging, requiring comfortable trekking shoes and a moderate level of fitness to fully enjoy the experience.
Are There Any Age or Fitness Restrictions for Participating in the Tour?
There are generally no strict age or fitness restrictions for participating in tours, but the level of physical activity may pose challenges for those with limited mobility or endurance. It’s best to check with the tour operator about any specific requirements.
Can the Tour Be Customized to Accommodate Special Dietary Requirements?
The tour company is generally able to accommodate special dietary requirements with advance notice. Customers should notify the company of any dietary needs when booking the tour to ensure their needs are met during the experience.
What Types of Transportation Are Used During the Tour?
The tour typically uses a private vehicle for transportation throughout the day. Clients are picked up from their accommodations in Athens and driven to the various sites on the itinerary, including Corinth Canal, Ancient Corinth, and Mycenae.
Is There an Option to Extend the Stay in Nafplio After the Tour?
The tour does not explicitly offer an option to extend the stay in Nafplio after the main tour. However, travelers could potentially choose to stay longer in Nafplio on their own accord after the guided tour concludes.
Recap
This VIP day tour from Athens offers an immersive journey through Greece’s rich history, from the ancient ruins of Mycenae and Corinth to the picturesque town of Nafplio.
Travelers can explore the archaeological sites, marvel at the Corinth Canal, and savor local cuisine, all while uncovering the legacy of the Mycenaean civilization.
It’s an enriching adventure that provides a comprehensive experience of Greece’s cultural and historical treasures.
