Apostle Paul Steps private tour (Athens, Kechries, Corinth & Canal) 10 hours

If you’re eager to walk in the footsteps of Saint Paul and explore some of Greece’s most iconic ancient sites, this private 10-hour tour offers an engaging way to do so. Designed for those with an interest in religious history, archaeological wonders, and scenic views, it packs a lot into a full day—covering everything from the Corinth Canal to the grandeur of the Acropolis. The fact that it’s private means you get the luxury of a personalized experience, with your own driver and flexible schedule.

One thing we especially love about this tour is the combination of history, nature, and local culture—there’s a rich variety of sights that make the day both educational and visually stunning. However, keep in mind that entrance fees are not included, so budget an additional cost if you want to go inside the major sites like the Acropolis or Ancient Corinth.

This tour is ideal for travelers who appreciate comfort and convenience but also want to avoid the hassle of navigating on their own. It’s perfect for history buffs, religious travelers, or anyone wanting a rundown of Greece’s biblical and classical past—all in one well-organized day.

Key Points

• Private, flexible experience: Your own driver and customizable itinerary make this a personalized adventure.
• Historical and scenic highlights: Explore iconic sites linked to Saint Paul, including the Acropolis and Corinth.
• Transport included: Comfortable air-conditioned vehicles ensure hassle-free travel between stops.
• Entrance fees extra: Major sites like the Acropolis and Ancient Corinth are not included in the price.
• Expert guidance optional: You can upgrade to have an archaeologist guide for deeper insights.
• Authentic experiences: Reviews praise knowledgeable guides and stunning views, alongside good value for the cost.

Exploring the Itinerary in Detail

Corinth Canal – Marvel at Man-Made Ingenuity

Your day kicks off with a visit to the Corinth Canal, the 6.4 km stretch of water that slices through the Isthmus of Corinth. Built between 1881 and 1893, this engineering feat took over a decade and over 2,500 workers to complete. We loved the way the canal’s cliffs and waterway create such a striking visual contrast—standing 80 meters above the water, you get a real sense of scale. It’s a quick stop, ideal for photos and soaking in the view. Reviewers note that the free pedestrian bridge allows you to cross over and get different vantage points, making it a worthwhile 15-minute stop.

Kechries – A Biblical and Historical Crossroads

Next, you’re off to Kechries, an ancient port that once served as a key gateway for trade and early Christianity. This spot is especially meaningful if you’re interested in the biblical side of Greece; Saint Paul is said to have visited here, where he cut his hair to fulfill a vow (Acts 18:18). One reviewer appreciated the short stop here, describing it as a “natural crossroads for ships coming from the east,” with local history dating back to early Christianity. It’s a quick 15-minute visit, but enough to feel the weight of its importance in both ancient trade and religious history.

Ancient Corinth – Tracing the Footsteps of Saint Paul

The ruins of Ancient Corinth are the highlight for many visitors. This city, once one of Greece’s largest, is steeped in history—from the temples and marketplaces to the impressive ruins of the city’s many structures. For Christian visitors, the connection to Saint Paul makes this site even more special, as he wrote two letters from here (First and Second Corinthians). The combined ticket for the archaeological site and museum is around $8 during summer, but note that entrance fees are not included in the tour price.

Walking through the columns and remnants, it’s easy to imagine what life was like in ancient Greece. One reviewer praised the site, stating, “Walking in the ancient city is like stepping back in time.” The museum nearby offers additional artifacts that help contextualize the ruins.

Archaeological Museum of Corinth – A Closer Look at Artifacts

A short visit to the Archaeological Museum offers a chance to see some of the relics uncovered at the site. It’s a compact museum, but packed with statues, pottery, and other artifacts that tell stories of Corinth’s glorious past. Visitors appreciated this stop for providing a tangible connection to what they saw on the ruins, often describing it as “an enriching complement” to the site visit.

Acrocorinth – Panoramic Views & Fortified History

Climbing up to Acrocorinth, the city’s ancient acropolis, reveals not just history but some of the best panoramic views in the area. The fortress has seen countless invasions, and the ruins echo stories of war, religion, and strategic importance. Reviewers love that the site is accessible and offers breathtaking vistas of both the Corinthian and Saronic Gulfs. Keep in mind, the site closes around 4 pm, so plan accordingly.

The Diolkos – An Ancient Shortcut

The Diolkos is a fascinating, lesser-known part of the tour—an ancient paved track that allowed ships to be hauled overland across the Isthmus. This short stop provides insight into early maritime logistics and wartime tactics. Visitors generally find it intriguing to stand on this historic route, which played a role in speeding up trade and military movements. The tour’s review highlights how this quiet site offers a different, quieter perspective on history.

Return to Athens & The Acropolis

After a scenic drive back to Athens, the tour culminates on Acropolis Hill—the city’s most iconic symbol. You’ll see the Parthenon, Erechtheion, and the Temple of Athena Nike. The review comments that the driver provides useful amenities like umbrellas and phone chargers, making the sightseeing more comfortable, especially in warmer months. Entrance fees are not included but are well worth it to see the masterpieces up close.

Optional Archaeological Guide

While the driver provides an informative audio guide and some historical context, you can upgrade to have an archaeologist guide accompany you inside the sites for a richer experience. This might be especially beneficial if you want detailed insights into the architecture and stories behind each monument.

Practical Aspects: What You Need to Know

Transportation & Comfort

The tour includes private, air-conditioned vehicles—either sedans, minivans, or minibuses—depending on your group size. Reviewers consistently mention how comfortable and clean the vehicles are, making the long drives between sites much more pleasant than public transport. Pickup is offered from your hotel in Athens, simplifying logistics, especially if you’re staying in the city center.

Duration & Timing

The full-day format (around 9 hours) is well-paced, giving enough time at each stop without feeling rushed. The itinerary is flexible, and the driver is accommodating if you want to spend extra time at specific sites or need to adjust the schedule slightly.

Entrance Fees & Costs

Entrance fees for sites like the Acropolis and Ancient Corinth are not included in the tour price, adding approximately $25-50 per person depending on the season. It’s wise to budget for this if you want to go inside the major sights. Reviewers found this acceptable, especially considering the value of a private driver and the convenience of a tailored day.

Group Size & Price

At $266.81 per person, the tour offers good value for a private experience, especially as it includes transportation, a driver, and optional audio commentary. The private nature means you avoid crowded group tours and can customize your day.

What Reviewers Are Saying

Multiple reviews highlight the knowledgeable guides and drivers. For example, Jimmy was praised for being personable, prepared, and courteous. One reviewer called Christos an “amazing driver and guide,” noting his helpfulness and patience. Guests appreciated the way the driver provided useful amenities like umbrellas and chargers, making sightseeing in the sun much easier.

The sites themselves drew high praise. The Corinth Canal’s impressive engineering, the panoramic views from Acrocorinth, and the beauty of the Parthenon all received accolades. Several reviewers mentioned how the combination of historical sites and beautiful scenery made the day both educational and visually stimulating.

Food and local culture also made appearances in some reviews, with visitors enjoying local artisan crafts and a nice lunch with views of ancient temples, adding a layer of authenticity to the experience.

Who Is This Tour Best For?

This experience is perfect for those who want a personalized, hassle-free day exploring some of Greece’s most important historical and biblical sites. It suits history buffs, religious travelers, or photo enthusiasts eager to capture stunning vistas. The option to upgrade for an archaeologist guide makes it appealing for visitors who crave more detailed, expert insights.

If you’re short on time but eager to see a broad swath of Greece’s heritage, this tour packs a punch. However, if you’re on a tight budget, remember that entrance fees are separate, and a longer or more comprehensive guided tour might be worth considering.

Final Thoughts

This private Apostle Paul tour strikes a nice balance between convenience, depth, and authenticity. It’s clear that the drivers and guides are committed to making your day special—whether through their knowledge, helpfulness, or just providing a comfortable ride. The stops are thoughtfully selected, giving you a rundown of Greece’s biblical and ancient allure.

While the price might seem high at first glance, the value lies in the personalized service and the ease of exploring multiple sites without the stress of logistics. It’s especially suited for travelers who want to see a lot without rushing, combining history, scenery, and cultural insights in one well-curated package.

If you’re interested in walking in Saint Paul’s footsteps and soaking up Greece’s ancient treasures, this tour offers a memorable, well-organized way to do so.

FAQ

Is transportation included?
Yes, the tour includes private, air-conditioned transport with pickup and drop-off from your Athens hotel.

Are entrance fees included?
No, entrance fees to sites like the Acropolis and Ancient Corinth are extra. Expect to pay around $25 to $50 depending on the sites and season.

Can I upgrade to a guide?
Yes, you have the option to hire an archaeologist guide for more detailed insights inside the sites.

How long is the tour?
The tour lasts approximately 9 hours, including travel time and site visits, with some flexibility for additional time if arranged in advance.

What vehicle types are available?
Options include sedans, minivans, and minibuses, suitable for groups of up to 14 people.

Is this tour suitable for families?
Absolutely. Kids are welcome, and the vehicles are comfortable. Just note that site visits involve walking and stairs at some locations.

What should I bring?
Bring comfortable shoes, sun protection, water, and a camera. If visiting the Acropolis, consider extra sun protection or an umbrella—your driver can provide one.

This tour offers a compelling blend of history, scenery, and convenience, making it a standout option for anyone eager to connect with Greece’s biblical past and ancient grandeur in a single day.