Philippi – In the steps of St. Paul Private Experience – 7 hrs

Exploring the roots of Christianity and ancient Greece in one day, this private 7-hour tour takes you from Thessaloniki to the archaeological marvels of Philippi, Saint Lydia’s Baptistery, and the Lion of Amphipolis. Led by a knowledgeable and friendly guide, this journey costs around $334 for up to 15 people, making it a personal, immersive experience.

What we love most about this tour is the insightful commentary from a guide who’s clearly passionate about the history, bringing the stories of St. Paul, Lydia, and the early Christian community vividly to life. Plus, the beautiful drive through scenic landscapes to reach the sites makes the journey as memorable as the destinations themselves.

The only thing to consider is that admission to the archaeological site costs extra ($10 per person), and private transport isn’t included in the base price. If you’re comfortable with some walking and a bit of historic exploration, this tour offers great value for the depth of insight and authenticity provided.

This experience is ideal for travelers who want a personalized, flexible, and in-depth look at biblical history and Greek archaeology. If you’re eager to see the actual sites where St. Paul preached and baptized, and enjoy engaging storytelling, this tour is an excellent choice.

• Intimate and personalized private tour with a knowledgeable guide.
• Visits to key biblical and archaeological sites, including Philippi, Saint Lydia’s Baptistery, and the Lion of Amphipolis.
• Flexible options for transport and additional experiences like local dining.
• Deep cultural and historical insights from a guide passionate about sharing Greece’s Christian roots.
• Cost-effective for a full-day experience with rich storytelling and authentic sites.
• Good for travelers interested in history, religion, and authentic Greek scenery.

When you book the “In the steps of St. Paul” private experience, you’re signing up for more than just a standard sightseeing trip. You’re stepping into the stories that shaped early Christianity and the ancient Greek world. For 7 hours, you’ll traverse from Thessaloniki’s urban environment to the open-air remains of Philippi, with a talented guide who makes history accessible and engaging.

Starting Point and Logistics

Your day begins at the Statue of Eleftherios Venizelos in Thessaloniki, where your guide will meet you. The price for this private tour is $334.48 per group (up to 15 people), which sounds like a lot initially but quickly makes sense when considering the personalized attention, expert guidance, and exclusive access to sites. Keep in mind, private transportation is optional and available at an extra fee, so if you prefer a more comfortable, door-to-door experience, that can be arranged.

This tour is designed for those with moderate physical fitness, as there will be walking at the archaeological site and some uneven terrain. It’s an intimate experience, only your group participating, which allows for questions, personalized stories, and flexibility that large tours often lack.

The First Stop: Archaeological Site of Philippi

The highlight of the day is exploring the Antique city of Philippi, an extensive excavation that spans Greek, Roman, and Christian periods. As one of Greece’s largest archaeological sites, Philippi offers impressive ruins, including ancient theaters, baths, and city walls.

The tour spends about 1 hour and 30 minutes here, during which your guide will bring to life the significance of the site. You’ll see remnants of the very place where St. Paul preached in 49 AD, making it one of the most important Christian pilgrimage sites worldwide.

Many reviews highlight how meaningful it is to walk where St. Paul once walked, with one reviewer expressing that “to actually step into time and to walk where the Apostle Paul walked was truly amazing.” You’ll love the way your guide contextualizes the ruins within biblical history, making the stones and foundations come alive.

Saint Lydia’s Baptistery: A Personal Connection

Next, you’ll visit Saint Lydia’s Baptistery, a small yet beautiful chapel located right next to the stream Angitis. This site holds special significance—Lydia was the first person baptized by St. Paul in Europe, and the chapel’s mosaic and marble decoration are remarkably well-preserved.

This stop is just 30 minutes, but it’s a chance to touch a tangible connection to early Christian history. Today, the baptistery still hosts baptisms, mostly for babies, offering a glimpse of ongoing tradition in a historic setting. Many guests appreciated the peaceful atmosphere and beautiful decor, with one reviewer noting that “Efi made our day with her knowledge, insider/local info, and her friendliness.”

En Route to Philippi: The Lion of Amphipolis

On your way back or during the drive from Thessaloniki, you’ll make a brief stop at the Lion of Amphipolis, a famous 4th-century BCE marble sculpture. This iconic monument, located by the river Strymon, commemorates the fallen of a Macedonian battle.

Although a quick 5-minute stop, many travelers enjoy it as a photo opportunity and a taste of Greece’s militaristic past. As a free stop, it’s a nice visual break and a reminder of the blend of Greek history layered in this region.

Additional Tips and Insights

Many reviews emphasize the expertise and friendliness of the guides, particularly one named Efi, who’s praised for her ability to make the history relatable. Guests mention how her storytelling transforms the ruins from mere stones to living stories of faith, conquest, and ancient life.

You might find that lunch is not included, but many guests recommend trying the seaside restaurants in Kavala, which often feature excellent seafood and local delicacies. The option for private transport, at an extra cost, can ease the logistics, especially if you want to combine this tour with other nearby sites.

What It Means for You

This tour is perfect if you value personalized attention, want a deep dive into biblical history, and enjoy exploring archaeological sites with expert commentary. Reviewers mention how the guide’s knowledge, local insights, and friendliness make the day special. The small-group nature allows for flexible pacing and meaningful interactions.

However, be prepared for some walking and to pay the $10 entrance fee for Philippi. Also, if you’re looking for a quick, superficial overview, this might be more in-depth than you need. But for those wanting a meaningful, story-rich experience rooted in real history, this tour hits the mark.

This private tour offers a comprehensive, engaging, and authentic look at some of Greece’s most significant biblical and archaeological sites. It’s particularly well-suited for travelers who appreciate personalized guided experiences, are interested in the early Christian roots of Europe, and want to see sites where history and faith intersect.

If you’re comfortable with some walking, value expert storytelling, and want to make the most of your time in Thessaloniki and its surroundings, this tour provides excellent value. It’s a chance to connect deeply with the history, culture, and stories that continue to shape the region today.

For history buffs, faith travelers, or those simply seeking a rich cultural experience, this private walk in the footsteps of St. Paul can be one of the most memorable parts of your Greek adventure.

Is this tour suitable for people with mobility issues?
The tour involves walking at the archaeological site and some uneven terrain, so it’s best suited for travelers with moderate physical fitness.

What’s included in the price?
You get a private certified guide for the full day, bottled water, and transportation if arranged. Entrance to the Philippi site costs an additional $10 per person.

Can I organize private transport?
Yes, private transport can be arranged for an extra fee. It makes travel more comfortable, especially if you want to visit additional sites or have a flexible schedule.

How much time will I spend at each site?
Expect around 1.5 hours at Philippi, 30 minutes at Saint Lydia’s Baptistery, and 5 minutes at the Lion of Amphipolis, plus travel time between locations.

Are meals included?
No, meals are not included, but many guests enjoy local seafood in Kavala after the tour.

How far in advance should I book?
On average, travelers book about 95 days in advance, indicating it’s a popular experience that requires planning ahead.

What if I need to cancel?
You can cancel for free up to 24 hours before the tour. Cancellations made less than 24 hours before will not be refunded.

This private tour offers a carefully curated blend of history, faith, and scenic beauty—perfect for those eager to connect with Greece’s biblical past in a personal way. Whether you’re a seasoned history lover or a curious traveler, it’s a meaningful way to spend a day exploring the roots of European Christianity and Greek antiquity.