2 Days Private Tour: Delphi – Mycenae & Corinth

Experience the Best of Greece in Two Days: Delphi, Mycenae, and Corinth

If you’re looking to explore some of Greece’s most iconic sites without the hassle of planning each detail, this 2-day private tour offers an excellent solution. For about $666 per person, you’ll visit Delphi, the mystical home of the oracle, step back into ancient history at Mycenae, and see the impressive Corinth Canal. The tour is priced to include transportation, hotel pick-up, and a knowledgeable driver, though you’ll need to pay extra for entrance fees and guided tours inside some sites.

What we love most about this experience is the opportunity to see multiple UNESCO World Heritage sites comfortably in just two days, supported by a driver with deep knowledge of Greek history and mythology. The flexibility of private transportation means you can enjoy the sites at your own pace, and the stops in scenic spots like Livadia and Aráchova add local character and breathtaking views.

A potential consideration is that entrance fees and guided tours inside major sites are not included, so if you want in-depth commentary or access to certain parts, you’ll need to budget for those extras. Still, for travelers who want a curated overview of Greece’s highlights without the stress of navigating on your own, this tour hits the right notes. It’s particularly well-suited for history buffs, first-time visitors, or those on a limited schedule who want a comprehensive snapshot of Greece’s archaeological marvels.

Key Points

• All-inclusive transportation with a private vehicle makes moving between sites smooth and comfortable.
• Expert driver with extensive knowledge of Greek history enhances the experience, even without a licensed guide at each stop.
• Flexible itinerary allows for personalized pacing at key sites like Delphi and Mycenae.
• Scenic stops in Livadia, Mount Parnassus, and Aráchova add local flavor and great photo opportunities.
• Cost-effective for a multi-site tour, especially considering the convenience and comfort compared to arranging individual visits.
• Requires additional fees for site entrance tickets and guided tours if you want detailed explanations.

A Deep Dive into the Greek Highlights

Day 1: From Livadia to Delphi and Beyond

The journey begins early at 8:00 am with a pickup at your hotel or Airbnb in Athens. Your driver, Alexander, will be your guide in many ways—sharing stories, answering questions, and ensuring you’re comfortable. The first stop is Livadia, a town with around 30,000 residents, perched at 200 meters above sea level. Known for its mythological and historical significance, Livadia offers a glimpse into Greek life beyond the tourist trail thanks to its traditional character and scenic surroundings.

Next, you’ll ascend Mount Parnassus, a mountain steeped in myth and natural beauty. Its limestone slopes provide panoramic views of olive groves and the surrounding countryside—a perfect photo backdrop. Historically sacred to Dionysus and Apollo, this mountain was believed to be the home of the Muses, adding a layer of mystique to your visit.

A highlight of the morning is the Monastery of Hosios Loukas, a masterpiece of Byzantine architecture from the 11th-12th centuries. Its golden mosaics and intricate design showcase a different facet of Greece’s artistic legacy. Admission isn’t included, but it’s well worth the brief stop for lovers of Byzantine art.

Then, you arrive at Delphi, nestled on Mount Parnassus. Once considered the center of the world in ancient Greece, Delphi was home to the oracle of Apollo. Here, you can explore the Temple of Apollo, where the oracle delivered her prophecies, and the Delphi Archaeological Museum, which houses famous statues like the Charioteer and the Gold Ivory statue. While entrance fees aren’t included, the sites are accessible and profoundly evocative of Greece’s spiritual past.

To finish the day, you’ll visit Aráchova, a charming mountainous village known for its winter sports and lively nightlife. With a modern ski resort and picturesque streets, it’s a great place to relax and soak in the mountain atmosphere.

Day 2: From Corinth to Mycenae and the Corinth Canal

The second day starts with a drive to the Corinth Canal, an engineering marvel completed in 1892. Walking across the pedestrian bridge gives you a close-up view of the narrow waterway separating the Peloponnese from mainland Greece. If you’re feeling adventurous, some days bungee jumping is available here—a fun, if slightly daring, option.

Next, you’ll explore Ancient Corinth, where the Apostle Paul once preached Christianity. Walking through the ruins, you’ll see the Roman Agora, the Temple of Apollo, and the remains of the Bema, the tribunal where Paul was judged. Entrance fees are not included, but the site offers a fascinating glimpse into Greece’s ancient urban life.

A quick visit to Acrocorinth castle offers sweeping views of the surrounding landscape. This fortress, the largest in southern Greece, is a great spot for photos and imagining what life was like defending this strategic location.

The most spectacular part of the day might be the visit to Mycenae, a site that truly feels like walking into a legend. Home to the famous Lion Gate and the Tholos tomb of Atreus, the ancient citadel dates back to the 2nd millennium B.C.E. It’s easy to see why Homer’s tales of Achilles and Agamemnon are rooted here. The Archaeological Museum of Mycenae offers context with its collection of artifacts.

Finally, a stop at the Treasury of Atreus—the best-preserved Mycenaean Tholos tomb—gives you a sense of the sophistication of ancient architecture. Your driver will then take you back to Athens, completing this whirlwind tour of Greek antiquity.

Why This Tour Offers Real Value

While the price of $665.62 per person might seem steep, it reflects the convenience and the ability to see multiple major sites with a knowledgeable driver. The private vehicle ensures you avoid the chaos of public transport or complicated logistics, especially when traveling with luggage or in a small group.

The driver’s expertise is a big plus—reviews highlight how Alexander shared insightful stories and tailored the experience to suit the group’s interests. This personalized touch enhances the visit, turning simple ruins into stories and legends you’ll remember.

The tour’s flexibility means you can spend more or less time at each site, a luxury you won’t get with larger group tours. Plus, stops in scenic spots like Livadia and Aráchova add a local flavor that enriches your experience beyond the ruins.

However, it’s important to note that entrance fees are not included. This means you should budget extra for sites like Delphi’s archaeological site, the museum, and Mycenae. If you’re someone who enjoys in-depth guided explanations, you might consider hiring a licensed guide, which is available at an additional cost.

What You’ll Love

The peace of mind of private transport and the comfort of traveling in a well-equipped vehicle make this tour ideal for those who prefer a relaxed pace. The knowledgeable driver provides context, making the ruins more meaningful. Plus, the scenic views along the way—mountains, olive groves, and seaside villages—are a feast for the eyes.

Possible Drawbacks

The main consideration is that entrance fees and guided tours inside the sites are not included, so the total cost can add up if you want a more detailed experience. Also, if your interest is solely in guided commentary at each site, this tour may feel too self-guided.

Who Is This Tour Best For?

This tour is perfect for history enthusiasts and first-time visitors eager to see Greece’s most famous archaeological sites with minimal fuss. It suits travelers who value comfort, flexibility, and expert transportation over a strictly guided experience. It’s also great if you want a balanced mix of sightseeing and scenic stops in a short time frame.

Final Thoughts

This 2-day private tour strikes a thoughtful balance between comfort, value, and authentic experience. It takes the stress out of logistics and offers a curated look at Greece’s legendary archaeological sites, with plenty of scenic and cultural touches along the way.

While it’s important to budget for entrance fees and optional guides, the personalized service, expert driver, and flexibility make it a standout choice for those who want to make the most of a short trip. If you’re after a well-organized, informative, and enjoyable way to connect with Greece’s ancient past, this tour delivers on all counts.

FAQs

Are entrance fees included in the tour?
No, entrance fees are not included. You’ll need to pay separately for sites like Delphi, Mycenae, and other archaeological attractions.

Can I hire a guide inside the sites?
Yes, you can request a licensed guide for an additional cost if you want a more detailed explanation of the sites beyond what the driver can provide.

Is this tour suitable for all ages?
Yes, most travelers can participate, but consider mobility if you have very young children or mobility issues, as some sites involve walking and uneven terrain.

What’s the start time?
The tour begins at 8:00 am, with pickup from your accommodation in Athens.

How long does each site visit last?
Site visits vary—expect about an hour at Delphi and Mycenae, and shorter stops at places like Livadia and Aráchova. The total duration depends on traffic and pacing.

Is this a group or private experience?
This is a private tour, so only your group will participate, allowing for a customized experience.

By choosing this tour, you’re set to enjoy a rich, flexible, and memorable taste of Greece’s archaeological treasures—perfect for curious travelers ready to connect with history in comfort.