Saint Paul Steps Full Day Private Tour

Exploring Greece’s Ancient Heart: Saint Paul Steps Full Day Private Tour

Imagine spending a full day uncovering the layers of Greece’s incredible past, all with personalized attention. For $340 per person, this nine-hour private tour takes you from the iconic Acropolis and Mars Hill to the legendary Corinth Canal and the ruins of ancient Corinth. Led by knowledgeable drivers and optional guides, this journey offers a well-rounded blend of history, scenic views, and authentic Greek culture.

What really hooks us are two standout features: first, the skip-the-line tickets at key sites like the Acropolis and Corinth, which save you precious time and reduce the hassle of long lines. Second, the customized private experience means a tailored pace and flexibility that large groups simply cannot match. It’s perfect for travelers eager to get an intimate look at Athens’ and Corinth’s most famous landmarks without feeling rushed.

A potential consideration is the moderate walking involved—comfortable shoes are a must, especially at the Acropolis and ancient ruins where uneven surfaces are common. Also, if you’re hoping for a highly guided experience inside sites, you may need to pay extra for a licensed guide, as the included driver is not licensed to accompany you at all sites.

This tour suits travelers who want a comprehensive day that balances sightseeing with cultural depth. It’s ideal for those who appreciate history, scenic drives, and authentic local dining. If you’re looking for an informative, flexible way to see some of Greece’s most storied locations with a private group, this one deserves a spot on your itinerary.

You can check availability for your dates here:

Key Points

• Unique combination: Visit Athens’ top sights and the ancient city of Corinth in one seamless day.
• Skip-the-line access: Saves time at major attractions like the Acropolis and Corinth.
• Private experience: Flexible, personalized touring with a knowledgeable driver.
• Rich history: Explore sites connected to the Apostle Paul and Greek gods.
• Scenic drives: Enjoy views along the coast, the Corinth Canal, and the cityscape.
• Optional guide: Additional licensed guide available for a deeper dive (extra cost).

A Deep Dive into the Saint Paul Steps Full Day Private Tour

Traveling through the heart of Greece with this full-day private tour offers a rare chance to see iconic landmarks and hidden gems at your own pace. Starting in Athens, the tour balances history, stunning views, and local flavor, making it an excellent choice for those who want a thorough introduction to the area’s ancient and modern layers.

The Acropolis and Its Marvels

The day begins with a visit to Athens’ most famous site—the Acropolis. With skip-the-line tickets, we bypass the crowds and head straight inside, giving us more time to appreciate the grandeur of the Parthenon, the Erechtheum, and the Temple of Athena Nike. The Odeon of Herodes Atticus and the Propylaea offer incredible photo opportunities, and the guide (if booked) can share insights into their construction and purpose.

What we love here is the chance to stand amidst 5th-century ruins and imagine the city’s ancient splendor. The views of Athens sprawling below are breathtaking, especially from the hilltop. The timing is often flexible, but arriving early helps beat the mid-morning rush.

Exploring Mars Hill and the Ancient Agora

Descending from the Acropolis, we climb Mars Hill, famously known as the place where Apostle Paul was judged by the Athenians in 51 A.D. This spot offers a panoramic view of the Agora and the city, letting us picture the bustling marketplace and the moments that shaped early Christianity.

The ancient Agora, visible from Mars Hill, was Athens’ political and social hub. Though not always included in the tour, it’s worth noting that the Temple of Zeus nearby was the largest temple in antiquity and dedicated to the King of the Gods. Passing by the Hadrian’s Arch – an impressive Roman monument – adds to the feeling of walking through layers of history.

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The Land of Gods and Stadiums

Next, we visit the Panathenaic Stadium, where the first modern Olympic Games were held in 1896. It’s a stirring site, and we appreciate the chance to walk on the same track as athletes more than a century ago. Nearby, the National Garden and the Changing of the Guard at Parliament give us a taste of modern Athens’ ceremonial side.

Climbing up to Lycabettus Hill, we get a panoramic viewpoint—a perfect spot for photos and to soak in the sprawling cityscape, from the Acropolis to the Aegean Sea. It’s a reminder of Greece’s blend of ancient grandeur and lively modern life.

Lunch and Coastal Views

A highlight is the stop at a traditional Greek tavern, where we indulge in local dishes—fresh seafood by the sea or hearty cooked classics. The relaxed atmosphere and authentic flavors make this a memorable part of the day, adding to the value of the experience.

After lunch, we cruise along the coast, passing seaside villages and catching sight of Salamis, home to a famous naval battle. This scenic drive sets the stage for the next major site.

The Corinth Canal and Ancient Corinth

The Corinth Canal, opened in 1892, is an engineering marvel that separates the Peloponnese from the mainland. Walking across the pedestrian bridge, we get a close-up view of the narrow, imposing waterway. For the adventurous, there’s even the chance to bungee jump—though that’s optional and not included in the tour price.

Next, the tour takes us to the ancient city of Corinth, perched on the hill of Acrocorinth with its imposing fortress. Here, we visit the Roman Agora, the Temple of Apollo, and the small museum, immersing ourselves in the ruins that have witnessed centuries of history. The site also offers fantastic views down to the Kechries port, where Apostle Paul once departed for Ephesus.

Practical Aspects and Tour Details

The tour operates with a dedicated driver and a private vehicle, offering a flexible and comfortable experience. The pick-up and drop-off at your accommodation takes away transportation stress. The tour duration is approximately 9 hours, giving ample time at each stop without feeling rushed.

While the driver provides deep historical knowledge, an additional licensed guide can be requested for a fee (around $380), if you desire a more detailed, site-specific narration—worth considering if history is your thing. Skip-the-line tickets ensure that long queues at popular sites don’t eat into your sightseeing time.

The tour is suitable for those with moderate walking ability, as some uneven surfaces and stairs are involved. Wear comfortable shoes, bring a sun hat, and don’t forget your camera and sunscreen. The optional bungee jump at the Corinth Canal is a fun addition for thrill-seekers.

Why This Tour Offers Great Value

At $340, the price might seem high, but it includes private transportation, skip-the-line entry tickets, and the expertise of drivers with profound knowledge of Greek history. The flexibility and personalized attention mean you can tailor the pace and focus, unlike group tours. Plus, the combination of Athens’ highlights with the less-visited but equally intriguing Corinth makes this tour a well-rounded day.

Who Should Consider This Experience?

This private tour is perfect for travelers who want to see Greece’s top historical sites with minimal hassle, especially if they value comfort and flexibility. It suits those with a curiosity about early Christianity, Greek mythology, and ancient engineering, as well as travelers who prefer a more intimate, guided experience over crowded group tours.

Frequently Asked Questions

Is this tour suitable for all ages?
Yes, the tour is suitable for most ages; just keep in mind the amount of walking involved and wear comfortable shoes. Kids often enjoy the scenic drives and the impressive ruins.

Can I customize the itinerary?
Since it’s a private tour, flexibility is possible. You can discuss with your driver about spending more or less time at certain sites upon request.

What’s included in the price?
Included are private transport, hotel pickup and drop-off, and skip-the-line tickets for the Acropolis and Corinth. Bottled water is also provided.

Is the tour wheelchair accessible?
The tour is wheelchair accessible, but some sites like the Acropolis have uneven surfaces that may pose challenges. It’s best to inform the operator beforehand.

How long do we spend at each site?
The itinerary is designed for a balanced experience—roughly 1.5 hours at the Acropolis, about an hour at ancient Corinth, plus time for other stops and lunch.

Can I join the tour without a guide inside the sites?
Yes, the driver is not licensed to guide you inside the sites, but you can request an optional licensed guide for an additional fee.

Final Thoughts

Choosing the Saint Paul Steps Full Day Private Tour means gaining a personalized, comfortable way to explore some of Greece’s most storied locations. With knowledgeable drivers, skip-the-line access, and a carefully curated itinerary, it’s an excellent way to make the most of a day in Greece without the stress of large group tours.

This experience truly shines for those eager to learn about Greece’s ancient past and its connections to early Christianity, all while enjoying scenic drives and authentic meals. If you value depth, flexibility, and convenience, this tour provides a memorable slice of Greek history that’s hard to beat.

Whether you’re a history buff, a culture lover, or simply looking for a hassle-free day exploring Athens and Corinth, this private tour hits the sweet spot between education, scenery, and comfort.

You can check availability for your dates here: