Morning Glory: Ancient Corinth and the Corinth Canal

As the sun rises over the Peloponnese, the city of Corinth awakens to a day filled with historical exploration and natural beauty. Begin your journey with a visit to the iconic Corinth Canal, a marvel of 19th-century engineering that connects the Gulf of Corinth with the Saronic Gulf. The canal, with its steep limestone walls, offers a breathtaking view that sets the tone for a day of discovery.

From there, venture into the heart of Ancient Corinth, a city that once stood as a powerful city-state in ancient Greece. The ruins of the Temple of Apollo, with its monolithic columns, stand as a testament to the architectural prowess of the ancient Greeks. As you wander through the Agora, imagine the bustling marketplace that once thrived here, and take a moment to stand on the Bema, the very platform where Apostle Paul addressed the Corinthians in 52 AD.

For those eager to delve deeper into history, the Corinth and Hera Temple Tour offers a comprehensive exploration of the area, including a visit to the Acrocorinth, the acropolis of ancient Corinth. This monolithic rock provides panoramic views of the surrounding landscape, making it a perfect spot for photography enthusiasts. The tour is available from 9:00 AM to 6:00 PM, allowing ample time to soak in the rich history and stunning vistas.

Review (2024-12-23): Wonderful private tour with Tas - My husband and I took this day tour of ancient Corinth with Tas, who was a wonderful tour guide! He drove us in a comfortable, air-conditioned SUV and offered us cold water. He accommodated our schedule and was very considerate, taking lots of photos of us at many landmarks. He included a delicious lunch at a lovely restaurant. It was a wonderful private tour and we highly recommend booking any tour with Tas! I am recommending his tours to family and friends.

Afternoon Adventures: Epidaurus and the Peloponnesian Countryside

As the afternoon sun casts a warm glow over the Peloponnesian countryside, embark on a journey to Epidaurus, a UNESCO World Heritage Site renowned for its ancient theater and the Sanctuary of Asclepios. The theater, with its exceptional acoustics, is a marvel of ancient engineering and a must-visit for any history enthusiast.

The Corinth and Epidaurus Tour offers a unique opportunity to explore these ancient sites while enjoying the scenic beauty of the Peloponnese. The tour, available from 7:00 AM to 5:00 PM, includes a visit to the Palamidi Castle in Nafplio, where you can enjoy a leisurely stroll through the town’s charming shops and indulge in a traditional Greek lunch.

As you wander through the Sanctuary of Asclepios, reflect on the site’s historical significance as the earliest organized sanatorium, marking the transition from divine healing to the science of medicine. The tour concludes with a visit to the Epidaurus Archaeological Museum, where you can marvel at the reconstructions of ancient temples and columns.

Review (2025-01-18): Ten of ten ancient hills - Outstanding experience. Our guide was very friendly, told a lot of historical or just interesting facts about places we were passing. Since we were good in timing, we had some stops for shots and look around even beyond what was expected, like the oldest bridge or Corinth Acropolis. We really enjoyed the tour and I highly recommend it.

Evening Elegance: Sunset at the Heraion and Beyond

As the day draws to a close, head to the Heraion of Perachora, a sanctuary dedicated to the goddess Hera. The site, located on a picturesque cape overlooking the Corinthian Gulf, offers a serene setting for reflection and relaxation. The Malagavi Lighthouse, a historic stone structure built in 1897, stands as a sentinel over the waters, providing a perfect backdrop for a memorable sunset.

For those seeking a bit of adventure, the sanctuary cove offers a unique opportunity to swim amidst ancient ruins, with the option to cliff-dive from the nearby rocks into the clear, inviting waters. As the sun sets, casting a golden hue over the landscape, savor a delicious meal at one of the local fish tavernas, where you can enjoy authentic Greek cuisine while basking in the warm glow of the Hellenic sun.

This weekend in Corinth promises a perfect blend of history, culture, and natural beauty, offering an unforgettable experience for travelers seeking to immerse themselves in the rich tapestry of Greek heritage. Whether you’re exploring ancient ruins, enjoying the scenic countryside, or simply relaxing by the sea, Corinth is a destination that captivates the heart and soul.