Ancient Corinth, Mycenae & snorkelling in sunken city private

Exploring Greece’s Ancient Treasures in Comfort and Style

If you’re dreaming of a day exploring some of Greece’s most iconic archaeological sites without the hassle of navigating busy roads or public transport, this private tour from Athens could be just the ticket. For approximately 12 hours, you’ll visit Ancient Corinth, Mycenae, and the Epidaurus Sunken City — all with the comfort of your own driver and expert guide. The cost is $636.25 for up to 7 people, making it a good deal for families or small groups wanting an immersive, hassle-free experience.

What we love about this trip is how smoothly it combines historic sightseeing with some fun — especially snorkeling in the underwater ruins of Epidaurus, which adds a playful twist to ancient history. Plus, your guide (not named here but reviewed as knowledgeable and engaging) shares stories that bring the sites to life. Another highlight? The charming old town of Nafplio, which offers a beautiful walk through one of Greece’s most captivating towns.

A potential downside to consider is the cost relative to individual travelers — at over $600 per group, it’s an investment. If you’re traveling solo or on a tight budget, this might feel steep. However, for those seeking personalized attention, convenience, and deeper insight into Greece’s past, this tour offers excellent value. It’s especially suited for history buffs, families, or small groups who enjoy a mix of sightseeing, learning, and a splash of adventure.

Key Points

• Private, Comfortable Transport: Enjoy a stress-free journey with your own driver, avoiding the confusing and often congested Greek roads.
• In-Depth Ancient Sites: Visit Ancient Corinth, Mycenae, and Epidaurus, gaining insight into Greece’s Bronze Age and classical periods.
• Snorkeling in Sunken Ruins: Experience the thrill of swimming amidst relics from the past, including Mycenaean tombs and foundations visible beneath the water.
• Charming Towns & Scenic Views: Stroll through Nafplio’s old town and snap photos of the Corinth Canal.
• Flexible, All-Inclusive Feel: Snacks, snorkeling gear, and free time at key spots make for a relaxed, well-rounded day.
• Limited Group Size: Only your group participates, allowing for personalized attention and flexible timing.

An Honest Look at the Full-Day Itinerary

Starting from Athens

Your day begins early at 8:00 am, with pickup either arranged or near public transportation. The drive from Athens to your first stop, Ancient Corinth, takes about an hour. This site dates back to the Neolithic period and was once home to around 90,000 residents in 400 BC. Here, you’ll see the ruins of the Acrocorinth fortress, ancient temples, and the basilica, all steeped in history. While the admission fee isn’t included, the site offers a compelling peek into Greece’s earliest urban development.

What’s special: The site’s vastness and well-preserved remains make it a worthwhile stop. We loved the way our guide explained the city’s importance in Greek and Roman times, making ancient politics and religion come alive. The level of detail helps you grasp why Corinth was considered a major power.

Mycenae: The Heart of the Mycenaean World

Next, a 20-minute drive takes you to Mycenae, the legendary kingdom of Agamemnon. Recognized for its Cyclopean masonry, the Treasury of Atreus, and imposing city walls, this site transports you to Greece’s Bronze Age. Mycenae was once a marvel of architecture and wealth, with its famous lion gate still standing as a testament to ancient engineering.

What we loved: The scale of the ruins and the mythic stories behind them. Our guide shared tales of kings and warriors, making the stones feel alive. We appreciated that the tour spent about an hour here, enough to soak in the atmosphere without feeling rushed.

The Sunken City of Epidaurus

The highlight for many is the Sunken City at Epidaurus, where you can snorkel among ancient Mycenaean tombs, foundations, and even paved sections visible beneath the clear blue waters. The site is free to explore and offers about three hours for swimming, relaxing, and enjoying a traditional lunch (not included) that you might bring along or purchase nearby.

What makes this unique: The chance to swim among ancient ruins—a rare opportunity that combines history and fun. Many reviewers, including Susan, mentioned that the snorkeling was a “nice touch” and a memorable part of the day.

The Corinth Canal

Before heading back to Athens, you’ll stop at the Corinth Canal, a narrow, striking waterway. It’s a quick 20-minute stop for photos and to admire this engineering marvel from above.

Return to Athens

The drive back takes about an hour and a half, giving you time to relax and reflect on your day. The entire experience wraps up around 8:00 pm, leaving you with plenty of memories and insights.

What the Tour Includes and Excludes

Included are snacks, soda, and snorkeling equipment — thoughtful touches that enhance comfort and fun during the day. Not included are the entrance fees for Mycenae and Corinth, as well as lunch, which allows flexibility to choose what and where to eat.

This tour’s focus on private transport and personalized experiences makes it ideal for those who dislike large group tours or navigating unfamiliar roads. The small group size ensures you get tailored attention and can ask plenty of questions.

Authentic Experiences and Practical Tips

Based on reviews, the knowledgeable guides are a real highlight; they bring Greek history to life with engaging stories. The guide’s storytelling, combined with a comfortable vehicle, makes the entire day feel like an adventure rather than just ticking off sites.

Travelers also appreciated the value for money, especially considering the private transportation and special activities like snorkeling. While the price is higher than a standard group tour, the convenience, comfort, and personalized focus arguably make it worth it—particularly if you’re eager to see these sites without the stress of planning every detail yourself.

Being a full-day tour, it’s best suited for travelers with a moderate level of fitness who enjoy a mix of walking, history, and a bit of water fun. It’s perfect for those who want an immersive, seamless experience with expert insights and no worries about logistics.

The Sum Up

This private tour strikes a fine balance between archaeological immersion and relaxed exploration. You get the chance to walk amidst ancient ruins, enjoy scenic drives, and even snorkel in a sunken city—all with a friendly guide who makes history engaging. It’s a great choice for travelers who value comfort, personalized attention, and a well-rounded day.

While it’s a bit pricier than other options, the combination of convenience, expert storytelling, and unique experiences like snorkeling make it a worthwhile investment. It’s especially suited for history enthusiasts, small groups, or families looking for a memorable, smoothly organized Greek adventure.

If you’re keen to explore Greece’s legendary sites without the hassle of self-driving or crowded tours, this trip could be just what you need. Just remember to bring your sense of curiosity and a swimsuit for that unexpected underwater adventure.

FAQs

Is this tour suitable for all ages?
Most travelers can participate, and the tour’s mix of walking, sightseeing, and snorkeling generally suits a wide age range. However, those with mobility issues should check with the provider regarding site access.

How long is the drive from Athens?
The drive to the first stop, Ancient Corinth, takes about an hour, with the return trip taking about 1.5 hours.

Are meals included?
No, lunch is not included, giving you the freedom to choose a local restaurant or pack your own.

Do I need to pay entrance fees?
Yes, admission to Mycenae and Corinth is not included in the price, so you should budget for those additional costs.

Can I snorkel in the Sunken City?
Yes, snorkeling equipment is provided, and many find this the highlight of the trip, swimming among ancient ruins visible beneath the water.

What should I bring?
Bring water, sunscreen, a hat, and swimming gear if you’d like to snorkel. Comfortable walking shoes are advisable for site visits.

Is this a guided tour?
Absolutely. A knowledgeable guide accompanies you throughout, sharing stories and context about each site.

Can I cancel if my plans change?
Yes, free cancellation is available up to 24 hours before the tour, allowing flexibility if your plans shift.

This private day trip offers a well-rounded, engaging way to connect with Greece’s past while enjoying the comfort of your own vehicle and expert guidance. It’s a solid choice if you want a personalized, memorable experience that mixes history, scenery, and a bit of adventure.