Corinth Canal, Ancient Corinth, Acrocorinth, Epidaurus, Tolo, Mycenae, Nafplio

Corinth Canal - Begin your tour with a morning pickup from your accommodation and head towards the Peloponnese peninsula. After about an hour’s drive, you’ll arrive at the Corinth Canal, an impressive engineering feat that stretches six and a half kilometers, linking the Aegean Sea with the Ionian Sea. Due to its narrow width, only small and slender cargo and cruise ships can navigate through the canal regularly.

Ancient Corinth (Archaia Korinthos) - Close to the canal is the ancient city of Corinth. Excavated initially in 1892 CE by the Greek Archaeological Service, the site is dominated by the Doric peripteral Temple of Apollo (circa 550-530 BCE). Most of the other remaining structures date back to the 1st century CE during the Roman era and include a large forum, a temple to Octavia, baths, the Bema where St. Paul spoke to the Corinthians, and the Asklepeion temple dedicated to Asclepius. The museum showcases various ancient artifacts discovered in the Corinth area.

The Ancient Theatre of Epidaurus - Leaving Corinth and traveling further into the Peloponnese, you’ll reach the stunning Sanctuary of Asclepios at Epidaurus, a UNESCO World Heritage site, after about 75 minutes. The theatre of Epidaurus is the finest and best-preserved example of a classical Greek theatre. At the site, you can visit the vast ancient theatre (and test its famous acoustics), the Tholos, the Stoa of Abaton, the Stadium, and the on-site museum.

Archaeological Site Mycenae - After exploring Epidaurus, head to Tolo, a charming seaside village known for its fish and seafood, where you’ll enjoy a fresh Greek lunch. Next, visit another UNESCO site, the archaeological sites of Mycenae and Tiryns, the kingdom of the legendary Agamemnon, leader of the Greek army in Homer’s Iliad. The archaeological sites of Mycenae and Tiryns are the impressive ruins of the two greatest cities of the Mycenaean civilization, which dominated the eastern Mediterranean from the 15th to the 12th century B.C. Enter Mycenae through the imposing Lion Gates, walk past the graves of kings, and marvel at the cyclopean architecture of the Treasury of Atreus—a truly powerful site.

Nafplio - Finally, head towards the medieval, seaside city of Nafplio, driving through dense orange and olive groves. Nafplio is one of Greece’s most beautiful towns, the former first capital of the country, built in neoclassical architecture with narrow cobblestone alleys and surrounded by three formidable castles. Stroll through the main Syntagma Square with its two old Turkish mosques, numerous cafes, and little taverns, and walk along the promenade overlooking Bourtzi castle. Accommodation is provided at a 4-star or boutique hotel like Ippoliti in Nafplio.

Ancient Olympia, Rio-Antirio Bridge, Nafpaktos, Galaxidi, Delphi

Archaeological Site of Olympia - After breakfast at the hotel, set off for a 2-hour drive to Ancient Olympia, another UNESCO site. Visit the museum and the famous archaeological site of the ancient Olympic Games. Olympia is located in the fertile valley of the Alpheios River and was the most celebrated site of Ancient Greece. As you walk along the ancient paths, you’ll see the Doric Temples of Zeus and Hera, the Bouleuterion, the Prytaneion, the Stadium, the Gymnasium, the Palestra, the Workshop of Pheidias, and many other stunning ancient buildings. In the museum, admire masterpieces such as the Nike of Paionios and the breathtaking Hermes and the Infant Dionysus statue. Enjoy lunch at one of the local traditional taverns in the picturesque modern Olympia village.

Achaia Clauss - After Olympia, you have the option of a free 1-hour visit to the oldest Greek winery, Achaia Clauss, for wine tasting and interesting facts about Greek wine varieties and methods. After the winery, head northwest to another engineering marvel, the Rio Antirio Bridge. Crossing it, you’ll leave the Peloponnese behind and enter the mainland towards Delphi. The first stop is Nafpaktos, a scenic little Venetian port and castle, popular for romantic weekend getaways.

Rion-Antirion Bridge - After the winery, head northwest to another engineering marvel, the Rio Antirio Bridge. Completed in 2004 for the Olympic Games, the bridge is named after Greek Prime Minister Charilaos Trikoupis, who envisioned connecting the Peloponnese with Western Greece in 1889.

Nafpaktos Old Port - Crossing the Rio Antirio Bridge, leave the Peloponnese behind and enter the mainland towards Delphi. The first stop is Nafpaktos, a charming little Venetian port and castle, popular for romantic weekend getaways. Stroll through the beautiful town and enjoy a coffee or tea at the port.

Galaxidi - Next, drive to Galaxidi and Delphi, where you’ll stay overnight at 4-star or boutique hotels like Ganimede in Galaxidi—known for its delicious breakfast—or Nidimos in Delphi, depending on availability. Galaxidi is a picturesque seaside resort with the atmosphere of a Greek island and is close to the Delphi area.

Visit Delphi, Arachova, Hosios Loukas Monastery

Delphi Archaeological Museum - After a restful night and breakfast at your hotel, your driver will take you to Delphi, a remarkable archaeological site and museum. Delphi, a UNESCO World Heritage Site, is considered the center of the Ancient World. Leaders, kings, and marshals would consult Pythia before making any significant decisions. The site became immensely wealthy and powerful, and the excavated buildings reflect its past prosperity. Visitors will see the Temple of Apollo, the Amphictyonic Council, the Siphnian Treasury, the Theatre, the Tholos, the Gymnasium, and the Stadium, among other important structures. The museum displays the history of the Delphic sanctuary and oracle, covering the period from prehistory to late antiquity. Highlights of the permanent collection include the famous Charioteer, the Sphinx of the Naxians, and the statues of Kleobis and Biton.

Delphi - For lunch, enjoy the best quality traditional food, service, and high hygiene standards at selected taverns in the area. Traditional Tavern “To Patriko mas” offers an astounding view of the vast valley and sea, along with exceptional food and service.

Arachova - After lunch, stop at Arachova, a popular ski resort village, to view local artifacts and embroidery, and taste the famous formaella local cheese and olives.

Monastery of Hosios Loukas - After Arachova, visit another UNESCO site, the Hosios Loukas monastery, where you can admire the stunning mosaics and frescoes from the early 10th century AD. The frescoes in the crypt were cleaned in 1960, having been covered in plaster until then. It is one of the most important monuments of Middle Byzantine architecture and art. After leaving the monastery, drive through the countryside and return to your residence, port, or be dropped off at the airport at no extra charge.

• Professional English speaking experienced tour driver (live commentary)
• Brand new luxury vehicles with WiFi, A/C and bottled mineral water for all
• 2 nights at a 4-star or Boutique Hotels with Breakfast
• Free airport/hotel/port pick up and return

• Admission fees into archaeological sites
• Drinks and dinners
• Lunches (unless you take the lunch option)
• Gratuities
• Licensed Guide. Available on request under extra cost