Ancient Corinth, Mycenae & snorkelling in sunken city

Taking a day to explore Greece’s history and its sunken secrets sounds like a perfect plan, especially if you’re into stories of ancient civilizations and a splash of adventure. This tour from Athens offers a blend of legendary sites, cultural insights, and the chance to snorkel in a submerged city—all in one day. It’s a trip that promises an immersive experience, especially if you like historical storytelling combined with a bit of seaside relaxation.

Two things we really like about this tour are the variety of stops packed into one day—from ancient ruins to underwater exploration—and the small-group format, which usually means more personalized attention from guides and a more relaxed vibe. On the downside, the tour spans about 11 hours, so it’s pretty full on, and that might be a lot for travelers looking for a more casual, leisurely outing. Still, it’s well-suited for those who want a comprehensive day out in the Peloponnese filled with history, nature, and a bit of adventure.

This experience tends to suit history buffs, adventure seekers, and anyone curious about Greece’s layered past. If you’re traveling with a flexible schedule and enjoy mixing cultural sightseeing with outdoor activities, this tour could be a highlight of your trip. Just keep in mind that it involves a fair amount of driving, so patience and flexibility are helpful.

Key Points

• Rich mix of history and nature: Covering ancient Corinth, Mycenae, and a snorkeling adventure in a sunken city.
• Small group size: Limited to 8 participants, which enhances the experience and guide interaction.
• Cost-effective for a full day: At $144, it offers a lot for the price, including snorkeling gear and transportation.
• Practical itinerary: Stops are well-structured, balancing sightseeing, free time, and activities.
• Guide expertise: Highly rated guides bring stories alive and add value to each visit.
• Long day, full schedule: Starting early and ending late, so be prepared for a busy but rewarding day.

You can check availability for your dates here:

A Deep Dive into the Tour Experience

If you’re like us, you’re probably drawn to Greece for its stories, scenery, and the chance to step into history. This tour hits all those notes, starting with the journey from Athens in a comfortable, air-conditioned vehicle. While it’s a long day, the stops are thoughtfully spaced out, helping prevent fatigue and keeping the experience engaging.

The Corinth Canal and Ancient Corinth

Your adventure kicks off with a drive to the Corinth Canal, an engineering marvel that separates mainland Greece from the Peloponnese. It’s a quick stop, but the views are worth it. Then, you’ll visit Ancient Corinth, a site that’s been inhabited since the Neolithic period. Here, you’ll get a glimpse of the city that was once a powerhouse, with a population of around 90,000 at its peak. It’s a place where history and religion intertwine—think of Paul’s letters and early Christian stories.

Expect to spend about an hour here, exploring ruins like the agora, the temple of Apollo, and the remains of Roman buildings. Guides tend to be very knowledgeable, sharing stories that make the stones come alive. One reviewer noted, “The guide was fantastic—full of interesting facts and good humor, which made the visit really enjoyable.”

Mycenae: The Palace of Kings and Mythical Gold

Next up is Mycenae, famed for its imposing architecture and legendary connection to Agamemnon. This site is truly a highlight, with its Cyclopean walls and the Tomb of Agamemnon—an awe-inspiring sight even today. Walking through the ruins, you feel like you’re stepping into a myth. The giant arches, the water fountain, and the impressive ramparts make it clear why this was one of the most significant palatial centers of the Late Bronze Age.

You’ll have about an hour for sightseeing and photos, and again, the guides add context that transforms the stones into stories of kings, wars, and ancient life. One guest shared, “You really get a sense of the grandeur and mystery that surrounded this place. It’s easy to imagine the stories that unfolded here.”

Snorkeling in the Sunken City of Epidaurus

The unique aspect of this tour is the snorkeling experience in an ancient sunken city. After a good break for lunch (not included, but expect to spend about 15-20 euros), you’ll head to the coast. The site features well-preserved remains like Mycenaean tombs, walls, and foundations—mostly submerged but visible through crystal-clear waters. Some parts, including the ancient jetty, are still intact, adding to the charm.

You’ll have around three hours to swim, snorkel, and soak in the atmosphere. The water is described as “crystal clear,” which makes for a memorable underwater adventure. The equipment is provided, and many reviewers appreciated the safety and guidance from the snorkeling team. One person mentioned, “Snorkeling here feels like stepping into an underwater museum. It’s surreal to see parts of the ancient city beneath the waves.”

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Final Stops and Return to Athens

The day wraps up with a scenic drive back to Athens, concluding around evening time. The long drive gives you time to unwind and reflect on the day’s highlights, often with some great photo opportunities along the way.

What You’ll Take Away From the Tour

This experience isn’t just about ticking off tourist sites; it’s an engaging journey that combines historical storytelling, beautiful landscapes, and adventure in the water. The fact that the tour is limited to 8 participants means you’re more likely to have meaningful interactions with your guide and fellow travelers, enriching the overall trip.

Pricing at $144 per person seems fair considering the full-day itinerary, transportation, and snorkeling gear. When you think about the cost of individual site tickets—like the €15 for Ancient Corinth and €20 for Mycenae—this tour provides good value for a comprehensive experience.

The tour’s timing, starting early and ending late, suits those eager to maximize their day. However, it’s a long day—so packing snacks, wearing comfortable shoes, and being ready for a busy schedule are good ideas.

Who Is This Tour Best Suited For?

If you’re passionate about ancient Greece, enjoy stories told by enthusiastic guides, and love outdoor activities like swimming and snorkeling, this tour hits the right notes. It’s also perfect if you want a full day of sightseeing without the hassle of organizing transport or tickets yourself.

Travelers who don’t mind spending about 11 hours on their feet and in a vehicle will find this a rewarding adventure. It’s not designed for those seeking a relaxed, slow-paced day, but it’s ideal for curious, active travelers who want to see a wide range of sights in one go.

FAQs

Is transportation included?
Yes, transportation in an air-conditioned vehicle is included, making the long day more comfortable.

What’s the group size?
The tour is limited to 8 participants, which helps keep things personal and flexible.

Are snorkeling equipment provided?
Yes, all snorkeling gear is included, so you don’t need to bring your own unless you prefer.

How much does the tour cost?
The price is $144 per person, which covers transportation, snorkeling gear, and guidance. Entrance fees for sites are extra.

What about food?
Lunch isn’t included, but you’ll stop at a location where you can buy a meal for about 15-20 euros.

What is the duration of the tour?
It lasts about 11 hours, starting early in the morning and returning in the evening.

Is this tour suitable for families or children?
While not explicitly designed for children, active families with older kids who enjoy history and outdoor activities can find it quite engaging. Keep in mind the long hours.

In all, this tour offers a well-rounded taste of Greece’s legendary past and its underwater mysteries. It’s perfect for those who love combining cultural sites with a bit of adventure and are eager for a full-day experience that’s both educational and fun. If you’re after a trip that leaves you with stories to tell—and photos to prove it—this could be just the right choice.

You can check availability for your dates here: