Ancient Corinth, Mycenae & snorkelling in sunken city

Exploring Greece’s Ancient Treasures and Underwater Mysteries
If you’re drawn to history, mythology, and natural beauty, this tour offers a fascinating 12-hour journey through some of Greece’s most iconic sites in the Peloponnese. For a reasonable price of $144 per person, you’ll visit Ancient Corinth, wander the archaeological marvel of Mycenae, and even snorkel over a sunken city teeming with ancient relics. Led by engaging guides in a small group, the experience balances rich historical insights with the refreshing pleasures of swimming in crystal-clear waters.

What we love about this tour is its combination of engaging cultural visits—like walking through the blend of Italian, Greek, and Ottoman styles in Nafplio—and the chance to experience the underwater world firsthand. The small-group format (limited to just 8 participants) ensures a personal, relaxed atmosphere and plenty of opportunity for questions. The timing allows for a leisurely pace, but be prepared for a full day of activity—this is no couch potato trip.

A minor consideration is the cost of entrance tickets to sites like Corinth and Mycenae, which aren’t included and could add around €8-20 per person. Also, the long driving stretches between locations (about 2 hours each way) might test your patience if you’re not used to bus trips. That said, if you’re okay with some travel time and value history, scenic landscapes, and snorkeling, this tour is a fantastic fit. It suits travelers craving an authentic, comprehensive day in Greece rather than a quick superficial glance.

Key Points

• Historical Depth: Visit Ancient Corinth and Mycenae, two of Greece’s most significant archaeological sites.
• Underwater Adventure: Snorkel over a sunken city, discovering underwater remnants of Mycenaean civilization.
• Cultural Charm: Explore Nafplio’s blend of Italian, Greek, and Ottoman architecture.
• Small Group: Limited to eight participants, ensuring personalized attention and a relaxed vibe.
• Balanced Experience: Combines sightseeing, culture, and sea swimming for a well-rounded day.
• Value for Money: While the tour fee is $144, it includes transportation and snorkelling gear, making it a convenient package.

You can check availability for your dates here:

A Detailed Look at the Tour Experience

Starting Out: From Athens to the Peloponnese

The journey begins with a comfortable air-conditioned van pickup in Athens, giving you a chance to relax and enjoy the scenic drive. With about 2 hours in transit, the guide (whose insights are often highlighted as a key positive) provides context about what you’ll see, helping to build anticipation for the day. Keep in mind that this long drive is the main trade-off for covering so much ground in one day, but it’s offset by the stunning landscape views along the way.

Corinth: A Glimpse into Ancient Commerce and Christianity

The first stop is Ancient Corinth, a site that spans Neolithic origins (6500-3250 B.C.) to Roman and early Christian periods. Here, you’ll have just over an hour for sightseeing and photos. The highlight is walking through ruins that include the Temple of Apollo and the Bema—where Paul the Apostle delivered his sermons.

Many travelers appreciate the moderate size of the site, which allows for an immersive experience without feeling rushed. Entrance tickets are not included but are reasonably priced—around 15 euros for full access. The guide’s commentary often enriches the visit, explaining how Corinth’s strategic location made it a key hub of ancient trade and religion, and how its Christian significance is rooted in the New Testament.

Mycenae: Unearthing the Kingdom of Agamemnon

Next, you’ll visit Mycenae, a site that strikes many with its Cyclopean masonry—massive stone walls constructed with stones so large they seem built by giants. Here, you’ll see the famous “Tomb of Agamemnon”, as well as the Treasury of Atreus, which features highly impressive arches and intricate design.

The hour-long stop is enough to marvel at the scale of the ruins and hear stories about the Mycenaean civilization, the legendary kingdom of King Agamemnon. The guide often shares insights into the archaeological techniques used to uncover these treasures, and visitors have praised the knowledgeable guides for making ancient history accessible and engaging. Entrance fees are around 20 euros (April-October), which is an added cost but worthwhile considering the site’s significance.

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Lunch Break and Relaxation in Nafplio

After Mycenae, there’s about an hour for a break in Nafplio, one of Greece’s most charming seaside towns. This is a good chance to stroll through narrow streets, admire Venetian architecture, and feel the mix of cultures reflected in the buildings and town squares. Many travelers find Nafplio to be a highlight for its romantic atmosphere and historic charm. While lunch isn’t included, there are plenty of cafes offering local seafood and traditional dishes.

The Sunken City: Snorkeling in Living History

The most unique part of this tour is the snorkeling adventure in an ancient sunken city. The site is home to remnants from the 12th century BC, including Mycenaean tombs, walls, and foundations of buildings—all visible through crystal-clear waters.

You’ll have about three hours here, which includes free time for swimming, exploring underwater, and soaking up the scenery. The tour provides snorkelling gear, making this experience accessible even to beginners. Many guests comment on how surreal it is to swim over ancient ruins that tell stories of a long-lost civilization. Some reviews mention that the paved sections look especially vivid through the water, and that it’s a once-in-a-lifetime chance to see history from a different perspective.

Return to Athens

After a long but rewarding day, the group heads back to Athens, arriving around 11 hours after departure. The drive allows for rest and reflection on all the sights, with plenty of time to chat about the highlights of the day.

Practicalities and What to Expect

Transportation: The tour uses an air-conditioned van designed for comfort during the approximately two-hour drives between sites. The small group size (limited to 8) means you’ll likely have a more personalized experience and easier interactions with your guide.

Timing and Pacing: The day is well-structured to balance sightseeing and leisure. With multiple stops, some moments tend to feel rushed, especially if you want to linger at each site. However, the moderate durations at each stop are generally appreciated for giving enough time to see important highlights without feeling overwhelmed.

Costs & Tickets: Entrance fees for Corinth and Mycenae are separate, totaling around 23 euros if you visit both sites fully. Since these aren’t included in the base price, it’s worth budgeting for them. The lunch isn’t included but can be enjoyed at Nafplio’s many seaside tavernas, where a meal typically costs 15-20 euros.

Snorkelling Gear: Included in the tour, allowing everyone to enjoy the underwater exploration comfortably. It’s a great addition for those interested in combining history with adventure.

Guide Quality: Reviews consistently praise the knowledgeable guides for making the stories come alive and answering questions thoroughly. Their insights help turn ancient stones into living history.

Who Will Love This Tour?

This experience is perfect for history buffs, adventure lovers, and those who want a taste of authentic Greece beyond the usual tourist spots. If you enjoy learning about ancient civilizations, walking through historic towns, and swimming in scenic waters, this tour checks those boxes.

It’s especially suited for travelers who prefer a small group setting, ensuring a more intimate and flexible experience. If you’re comfortable with long drives and want to maximize your time exploring key sites in one day, this tour offers great value.

However, if you’re looking for a more relaxed pace or prefer to spend more time at fewer sites, you might find the schedule a little packed. Also, if site entrance fees are a concern, be prepared for extra costs.

The Sum Up

This tour offers a compelling blend of ancient history, cultural charm, and underwater adventure, making it an excellent choice for those eager to see Greece’s most iconic archaeological sites while also experiencing something truly unique—snorkeling over a sunken city. The small group size and knowledgeable guides enhance the experience, ensuring that you won’t just see ruins but understand their stories and significance.

While the long drives and additional ticket costs are factors to consider, the overall experience delivers value and authenticity for travelers who want a well-rounded, memorable day. It’s especially ideal for history enthusiasts, curious explorers, and those who love the sea, offering a chance to connect with Greece’s ancient past both on land and in the water.

If you’re looking for an adventure-packed day with rich storytelling, unforgettable scenery, and the thrill of underwater discovery, this tour could be just what you need. It’s a well-balanced mix of learning, relaxing, and exploring—perfect for making your Greek trip truly special.

FAQ

Is transportation provided for the entire tour?
Yes, the tour includes transportation in an air-conditioned van for all site visits and the return trip to Athens.

How long is the drive from Athens to the sites?
Expect about two hours each way, making the total travel time around 4 hours. The drive is part of the adventure, providing scenic views and a chance to relax.

Are entrance fees included?
No, entrance fees for Corinth and Mycenae are not included and will be paid separately—roughly 8-20 euros depending on the site and season.

What should I bring for snorkeling?
The tour provides snorkelling equipment, so just bring your swimwear, a towel, sunscreen, and perhaps a waterproof camera for underwater shots.

Is this tour suitable for children or non-swimmers?
Since snorkeling is part of the experience, it’s best suited for confident swimmers or those comfortable with water. The sites are suitable for all ages, but consider your comfort with water activities.

How much time do I get at each site?
You’ll have about an hour at Corinth, an hour at Mycenae, and around three hours for swimming and free time at the sunken city.

What if I need to cancel?
You can cancel up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund, offering flexibility if your plans change.

This tour serves up a well-rounded slice of Greece’s past and present—perfect for travelers who want to combine culture, adventure, and a touch of the extraordinary.

You can check availability for your dates here: