Saint Paul Steps Full Day Private Tour

If you’re intrigued by the stories of Saint Paul and want to see the places where he preached and made history, this Saint Paul Steps Full Day Private Tour could be a compelling choice. Designed to trace the steps of one of Christianity’s most influential figures, this experience takes you from the grandeur of Athens’ Acropolis to the ancient port of Kechries, blending historical sites with scenic views and cultural insights.

What we love about this tour is its personalized approach—it’s private, meaning you get a tailored experience, and the option to add a licensed guide makes it even richer. The transportation is comfortable, and the itinerary covers a diverse range of sites, from iconic temples to panoramic viewpoints. However, it’s worth noting that admission tickets aren’t included for some key sites unless you book after January 2025, so budget accordingly.

This experience is probably best suited for history buffs, religious travelers, or those with a curiosity for ancient Greece and early Christianity. It’s particularly appealing if you enjoy a full-day, thoughtfully planned route that hits the highlights without feeling rushed. Keep in mind, it’s a comprehensive itinerary that involves some walking and sightseeing, so being comfortable with a busy day is key.

Key Points

• Private transportation ensures comfort and flexibility throughout the day.
• The tour’s focus on Apostle Paul’s sites offers a unique perspective on early Christianity history.
• Optional licensed guide can deepen your understanding of the sites but comes at an extra cost.
• Stunning views from Lycabettus Hill and Acrocorinth add visual splendor to the historical experience.
• The tour includes many iconic Athens landmarks—perfect for first-time visitors wanting a thorough overview.
• Flexible cancellation policy provides peace of mind if your plans change.

An In-Depth Look at the Tour Itinerary

Starting Point: The Acropolis

Your day kicks off at the Acropolis, the crown jewel of Athens. You’ll explore the Parthenon, the Temple of Athena Nike, the Erechtheum, and the Propylaea, each telling stories of ancient Greece’s architectural and religious grandeur. While admission isn’t included (unless booked after January 2025), the views of Athens from here are worth the climb. The Odeon of Herodes Atticus and the Theatre of Dionysus also add to the historic atmosphere.

The highlight here is climbing Mars Hill, a spot that once hosted Apostle Paul’s famous speech about the Unknown God. The panoramic vistas of the Acropolis and city make this a memorable photo-op and a meaningful point of reflection for those interested in religious history.

Athens Landmarks

Next, your tour will take you to the Temple of Zeus, the largest temple in antiquity, and then up to Lycabettus Hill, the highest point in Athens. The drive up offers a chance to appreciate the city’s layout, and the view from the top is spectacular—stretching from the Acropolis to the Aegean Sea, especially on a clear day.

Following that, you’ll visit the Hellenic Parliament and witness the changing of the guard at the Tomba Del Milite Ignoto outside the old royal palace. These sites give a glimpse of modern Greece’s political history and its ongoing traditions.

The Ancient Corinth and Its Significance

After a scenic drive, you’ll arrive at the Corinth Canal, an impressive feat of engineering that separates the Peloponnese from mainland Greece. Walking across the pedestrian bridge offers an up-close view of this narrow waterway, which is a favorite photo stop.

Then, it’s time to explore Ancient Corinth. Your visit includes the Roman Agora, the Temple of Apollo, and the castle of Acrocorinth. The latter, being the oldest and largest castle in southern Greece, rewards visitors with excellent photo opportunities. Here, you might find yourself imagining what life was like in the bustling city that Apostle Paul knew so well.

Port of Kechries and the End of the Journey

The tour’s final stop is the Kechries port, historically vital for trade and military activity. It’s also the stepping-off point for Paul’s journey to Ephesus back in 52 AD, adding a layer of historical significance.

Returning to Athens

From Kechries, the drive back to Athens completes the day. The experience captures not just the sites but the stories, the views, and the atmosphere of times gone by.

The Value of This Tour

While the $348.20 per person price might seem steep at first glance, it reflects the private nature of the experience, the transportation, and the convenience of having many sites organized into one day. The inclusion of skip-the-line tickets (for sites booked after January 2025) helps reduce waiting times, which can be a real advantage in busy seasons.

The knowledgeable drivers with a passion for history seem to make a positive impression—Gregory_C’s review praises their passion and expertise. The flexibility of private transportation means you won’t be stuck in a large tour group, and you get to customize the pace to some extent.

A Note on Guides

If you want a deeper understanding, you can opt for a licensed guide at an additional cost. Though the base tour is driver-led, the option to add a guide means you can get richer insights—especially if you’re a history enthusiast or traveling with someone who loves detailed storytelling.

Who Would Love This Tour?

This tour is ideal for travelers who want a comprehensive, flexible way to explore Athens and Corinth, especially if they’re interested in early Christian history or religious sites. It’s also suitable for those who appreciate scenic views, like Lycabettus Hill and Acrocorinth, and don’t want the hassle of organizing transportation and tickets themselves.

If you’re traveling with family or on a tight schedule, this private experience offers convenience and a curated experience. But be prepared for a full day of sightseeing—it’s not a relaxed stroll. It’s well-suited for those comfortable with a busy itinerary and some walking.

FAQs

Is this tour suitable for children?
While not specifically marketed as family-friendly, the tour involves a full day of sightseeing and walking. Kids interested in history and scenic views might enjoy it, but consider their stamina and interest levels.

What if I want a guide inside the sites?
You can request a licensed guide for an additional cost—$380. This is optional, but it can greatly enhance your understanding of the historical and religious significance of each site.

Are tickets included in the price?
For bookings made after January 17, 2025, skip-the-line tickets for the Acropolis and Ancient Corinth are included. Before that, you’ll need to buy tickets separately.

How comfortable is the transportation?
The tour provides private transportation, which means you can relax between stops and enjoy the scenic drives without dealing with public transport or large groups.

What is the duration of the tour?
It lasts approximately 8 hours, starting at 8:00am. Keep in mind that the actual length might vary depending on traffic and how long you spend at each site.

Can I cancel if my plans change?
Yes, the tour offers free cancellation up to 24 hours in advance, giving flexibility if your plans shift unexpectedly.

Is this tour accessible for people with mobility issues?
Given the amount of walking and site terrain, some stops may be challenging for those with mobility limitations. It’s best to inquire directly with the provider for specific concerns.

How is the overall value?
Considering the private setting, scenic views, and historical sites covered, many travelers find it good value—especially if they want an in-depth, personalized day with expert insights.

Final Thoughts

If you’re looking to walk through history in a way that’s both detailed and comfortable, this private tour offers a well-rounded experience. Its focus on Apostle Paul’s journey adds a meaningful narrative thread, making it particularly appealing for religious or historical travelers. The flexibility of private transportation and optional guides mean you can tailor it to your interests and pace.

While it is a full day and involves a fair bit of sightseeing, the carefully curated stops and scenic viewpoints make it worthwhile for those eager to connect with Greece’s layered history. It’s not a casual sightseeing stroll, but for those who love a comprehensive, well-organized adventure, this could be a highlight of your Athens trip.

In essence, this tour is best suited for curious travelers who want to combine history, scenery, and a touch of spiritual exploration in a single, thoughtfully designed day. Whether you’re passionate about early Christianity, fascinated by ancient temples, or simply want a private, hassle-free way to see Athens and Corinth, this experience delivers on many fronts.