Private Tour Corinth Following the Footsteps of Apostle Paul

Exploring the Past on a Private Tour of Corinth Following the Footsteps of Apostle Paul

When it comes to combining history, spirituality, and scenic views in Greece, this Private Tour of Corinth truly hits the mark. While we haven’t personally taken this exact trip, reviews and detailed descriptions paint a picture of a well-rounded, thoughtfully curated experience. Perfect for those interested in biblical sites or simply wanting a meaningful day outside Athens, it offers a chance to walk where Saint Paul once did, all while enjoying comfortable transport and personalized attention.

One thing we really like about this tour is the scenic drive along the mainland coast, offering beautiful views and a quick, fascinating stop at the Corinth Canal, an engineering marvel. The other highlight is the visit to Ancient Corinth itself, where you’ll wander through ruins that keep the stories of early Christianity alive—feeling like stepping back in time. However, a potential downside is the focus on the biblical and ancient sites might not appeal if you’re looking for a more leisurely or less structured experience. It’s quite a packed itinerary, so if you prefer a more relaxed pace, this might feel hurried.

All in all, this experience suits travelers who are curious about history, enjoy storytelling, and appreciate a private, flexible approach. It’s particularly good for those who want to combine cultural sights with some scenic driving and a touch of spiritual reflection.

Key Points

• Personalized experience with private transport and driver
• Focus on biblical sites connected to Saint Paul
• Short but scenic drive including the Corinth Canal
• Visits to Ancient Corinth, the Roman Forum, and Acrocorinth fortress
• Moderate walking involved; good shoes recommended
• Flexible booking with cancellation up to 24 hours in advance

You can check availability for your dates here:

A Closer Look at the Tour Itinerary

Pickup and Scenic Drive

The day kicks off with your pickup from your Athens accommodation, which is always a plus—no navigating public transportation or worrying about logistics. From there, you’ll enjoy a roughly one-hour drive along the Greek mainland coastline, a journey that often includes a short stop at the Corinth Canal, an impressive feat of engineering where water connects the Aegean and Ionian seas.

Traveling by private vehicle means you can relax, chat with your driver, and take in the views without the rush of a big group. It’s a more intimate way to start your day, and reviews mention a “comfortable, clean car” and a “personable, friendly driver,” which makes a difference when you’re on a tight schedule.

Stop at Corinth Canal

The Corinth Canal is an obvious highlight for many travelers. Spanning about 6 km, this narrow waterway has been admired for its engineering since the late 19th century. It’s a brief 15-minute stop, but enough to appreciate the scale and imagine how crucial this passage was for ancient and modern trade.

Ancient Corinth: The Heart of the Experience

Arriving at Ancient Corinth, you’ll step into a site that was once a bustling city-state and a significant hub in the ancient Greek world. This is where the tour truly comes alive—walking the same paths as Saint Paul and other ancient figures, feeling the stones under your feet, and contemplating the stories embedded in the ruins.

The highlight here is the Bema of Saint Paul, a little rostrum where Paul is believed to have preached. Strolling the ancient market and viewing the Roman Forum’s Rostra helps bring history into focus. The site covers enough ground to give a genuine sense of the city’s former grandeur, although some might find the 1.5 hours a bit tight if they want to linger longer.

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Temple of Apollo and Additional Sites

After exploring the ruins, you’ll visit the Temple of Apollo, which, although ruined, still hints at the significance of worship and religious life in ancient Corinth. This stop allows for some great photo opportunities and a more rounded perspective of the city’s spiritual landscape.

Visiting Kechries Port and Acrocorinth Fortress

On the way back, the tour stops at Kechries Port, a location tied to Saint Paul’s second missionary journey, offering insight into his travels and commitments. Nearby, Acrocorinth stands out as a major fortress with commanding views of the surrounding landscape. This ancient stronghold was fought over by Greeks, Romans, and Byzantines and features remnants such as walls, towers, and a temple to Aphrodite.

The fortress visit is particularly popular for its panoramic vistas, which make for memorable photos. Expect some uphill walking here, so comfortable shoes are a must.

Return to Athens

The day wraps up with the drive back to Athens, usually with some time to reflect on what you’ve seen and learned. As reviews suggest, the whole experience offers a good balance of historical exploration and scenic beauty, all in a private setting that adapts to your needs.

What’s Included and What’s Not

Included in the cost are hotel pickup and drop-off, private transportation, an English-speaking driver, and all taxes. These basics ensure a smooth, hassle-free day.

However, keep in mind that entrance fees for Corinth are not included, so you’ll want to budget a few extra euros if you plan to go inside specific sites. Also, there’s an optional tour guide available for two hours if you’d like deeper insights, but you’ll need to pay additionally if you choose.

A small fee for an acoustic system is payable on the spot if your group exceeds ten people, which helps everyone hear the guide clearly.

The Experience in Practice

Based on reviews, travelers have enjoyed the comfortable, clean car and the friendly driver who tailors the day to individual needs. One reviewer specifically mentioned how George was “great,” indicating quality personal service.

The well-organized itinerary packs in several key sites without feeling overly rushed, although some might prefer more time at each stop. Travelers have also appreciated the stunning views from Acrocorinth and the chance to walk in the footsteps of Saint Paul, making it a meaningful excursion for history buffs and those interested in biblical stories.

This tour is especially suited to those who like a private, flexible format and want to avoid the hustle of large groups. It’s less ideal if you have mobility issues since the fortress involves some uphill walking, and you’ll need to be comfortable on foot around uneven ancient ruins.

Final Thoughts

This private tour offers a solid mix of history, scenic beauty, and personalized service. Its focus on Saint Paul’s journeys makes it particularly attractive for biblical history enthusiasts or travelers looking for a more reflective experience. The inclusion of key sites like the Corinth Canal and Acrocorinth adds flavor, while the private setting allows for flexibility and comfort.

If you’re after a day that balances education, stunning vistas, and ease of access, this experience can be very rewarding. The reviews reinforce that knowledgeable guides and scenic views are some of the tour’s standout features, ensuring it’s worth the price for those seeking a tailored, meaningful day trip from Athens.

FAQ

Is this tour suitable for children?
While the tour is primarily focused on historical and archaeological sites, children who enjoy walking and exploring ruins should find it interesting. However, consider the walking involved on uneven terrain, especially at Acrocorinth.

Can I cancel this tour?
Yes, you can cancel up to 24 hours before the scheduled start for a full refund, making it flexible if your plans change.

What should I bring?
Comfortable shoes and clothes are recommended, as there will be walking on uneven surfaces and outdoor sites. A hat and water are also a good idea for the sunny Greek weather.

How long is the drive from Athens?
The drive is about an hour each way, giving you plenty of time to relax and enjoy the scenery without feeling rushed.

Is a tour guide included?
The tour includes a driver who speaks English, but if you want an in-depth guide, you can opt for a guide in Corinth for an extra two hours.

What’s the price for a group of up to three?
The cost is $452 for the entire group, which makes it quite cost-effective considering the private nature of the tour and personalized service.

If you’re intrigued by the idea of following in Saint Paul’s footsteps while enjoying a comfortable, flexible day out, this private tour seems a worthy choice. It balances historical depth with scenic wonders, all wrapped in a friendly, personal package that feels just right for many travelers.

You can check availability for your dates here: