Saint Paul Steps Full Day Private Tour

Imagine exploring Athens’ most iconic sights with personalized attention, then heading out to experience the historic Corinth region—all in one day. That’s exactly what the Saint Paul Steps Full Day Private Tour promises. From the majestic Acropolis to the ancient ruins of Corinth, this day trip offers a comprehensive look at Greek history and biblical landmarks, all with the comfort of private transportation and expert guides.

What truly sets this tour apart is the focus on meaningful storytelling—your drivers aren’t licensed guides but come armed with deep historical knowledge, ready to answer your questions and illuminate each site’s significance. Plus, the itinerary is thoughtfully designed to balance sightseeing with relaxed breaks, making it suitable for most travelers.

One thing to consider is that the tour involves quite a bit of walking, especially around the Acropolis and ancient Corinth, so comfortable shoes are a must. While the price of $340 per person might seem steep, it includes skip-the-line tickets for key sites, private transport, and expert insights—delivering good value for a full day of exploration. This tour is perfect for history buffs, those interested in biblical history, or travelers who appreciate a personalized, curated experience.

Key Points

• Private, personalized experience: Your own driver and optional guide create a flexible, intimate tour.
• Comprehensive itinerary: Includes Athens’ top landmarks, the Corinth Canal, and ancient Corinth.
• Skip-the-line access: Saves time at popular sites like the Acropolis and Corinth.
• Expert insights: Deep knowledge from drivers enhances understanding of each site.
• Comfort and convenience: Hotel pickup/drop-off and private transport make logistics effortless.
• Additional activities: Optional activities like bungee jumping at the Corinth Canal available.

Exploring the Ancient Heart of Greece

This private tour is a fantastic choice if you want a broad yet detailed look at some of Greece’s most iconic sites, especially with a focus on the historical and biblical significance. The day begins bright and early with pickup from your Athens accommodation, setting the tone for a smooth, hassle-free experience. You’ll be whisked away in a private vehicle, allowing you to relax and enjoy the scenery as your driver takes you on a journey through time.

Visiting the Acropolis – The Crown Jewel of Athens

We loved the way this tour prioritizes a thorough visit to the Acropolis, the most famous Greek landmark, home to the Parthenon and other ancient temples. With skip-the-line tickets (for bookings made after January 2025), you’ll bypass the long queues and head straight into this UNESCO World Heritage site. The guide or driver provides rich context on the Odeon of Herodes Atticus, the Temple of Athena Nike, and the Propylaea, helping you visualize what once was the center of Athenian life.

The panoramic views from the Acropolis are stunning, offering a sweeping vista of Athens’ sprawling cityscape and beyond. The guide’s storytelling brings these ruins to life, explaining their significance and how they fit into the city’s ancient fabric.

The Significance of Mars Hill

Next, your attention turns to Mars Hill, where the Apostle Paul was judged by the Athenians in 51 AD—an important biblical site. We appreciated the way guides or drivers explained why Mars Hill was used as the supreme court of Athens and its reputation as a place for speech and judgment. The view from here overlooks the Greek Agora, where Paul is believed to have spoken about Christianity, giving visitors a vivid sense of the historical context.

Athens Landmarks with a Local Touch

En route, you’ll drive past landmarks like the Temple of Olympian Zeus and Hadrian’s Arch, passing by the Panathenaic Stadium—the site of the first modern Olympic Games in 1896. The stadium offers a quick 15-minute stop, where you can snap photos of this impressive classical structure and imagine the excitement of the first modern Olympics.

From Lycabettus Hill, you’ll enjoy a 20-minute panoramic view of Athens—great for snapping memorable photos and appreciating the city’s layout. The guides or drivers share stories about the neoclassical buildings along Panepistimiou Street, adding layers to your understanding of Athens’ architecture.

Authentic Greek Lunch

A highlight of this tour is stopping at a traditional Greek tavern for lunch. You’ll enjoy authentic dishes—perhaps fresh seafood or local cooked specialties—giving you a taste of Greece beyond the ruins. This pause offers a chance to relax, soak in the local atmosphere, and discuss the morning’s sights.

Venturing to Corinth and the Corinth Canal

After lunch, the tour heads along the scenic coastline, passing seaside villages and the island of Salamis, where a famous naval battle took place. The highlight here is the Corinth Canal, an engineering marvel opened in 1892. Standing on the pedestrian bridge, you’ll get a close-up view of this narrow waterway slicing through the landscape—impressive both visually and historically. For the adventurous, the optional bungee jump (not included) offers an adrenaline rush with a stunning backdrop.

The ancient city of Corinth is next, perched beneath the hill of Acrocorinth—a massive castle that dominates the landscape. Exploring the site, you’ll see the Roman Agora, the Temple of Apollo, and a small museum that sheds light on the city’s rich past. Reviewers often mention how the site feels tangible, echoing with stories of Roman, Greek, and biblical history.

Visiting Kechries – The Old Port

Your last stop before heading back to Athens is Kechries, where you’ll see part of the old port—some of which is still visible underwater. The site’s biblical connection is significant, as Paul stayed here before heading to Ephesus. This adds a spiritual dimension to your day, especially if you’re interested in early Christian history.

Overall Value and Practicalities

This tour, priced at $340 per person, offers a comprehensive, flexible way to see both Athens and Corinth without feeling rushed. The inclusion of skip-the-line tickets at key sites reduces waiting times, especially during busy seasons. The private transportation ensures comfort, and the deep knowledge of your driver enhances every stop.

What we liked most is the personalized approach—there’s flexibility to focus more on sites that interest you and ask questions. The schedule balances sightseeing with breaks, making it suitable even for those who aren’t used to long days on their feet.

One consideration is the physical demand; walking around the Acropolis and ancient Corinth involves some uphill and uneven terrain. Make sure to wear comfortable shoes and bring sun protection. Also, the price might seem steep, but when you factor in the skip-the-line access, private transport, and expert insights, it’s a worthwhile investment for a memorable, hassle-free day.

Who Would Love This Experience?

This tour is ideal for travelers who want a personalized, in-depth look at Athens’ highlights and the biblical sites around Corinth. It’s perfect if you prefer a relaxed pace while still covering a lot of ground, and if you value expert commentary—whether from guides or knowledgeable drivers. History buffs, religious travelers, or those keen on Greek culture will find this especially enriching.

It’s less suitable if you’re looking for an ultra-budget option or prefer to explore on your own without guided commentary. The walking involved may also be challenging for those with mobility issues, though the private transport offers some relief.

The Sum Up

The Saint Paul Steps Full Day Private Tour offers a well-rounded blend of iconic Athens landmarks and biblical history, all wrapped into a hassle-free package. With skip-the-line tickets, private transport, and knowledgeable drivers, it’s a convenient way to see the highlights without the stress of navigating alone. The inclusion of a traditional Greek lunch and scenic coastal drives makes it not just educational but also enjoyable.

This tour shines brightest for those who crave a deep, authentic understanding of Greek history and biblical sites, combined with comfort and flexibility. Whether you’re a history enthusiast, a spiritual seeker, or simply eager to experience Athens beyond the crowds, this tour delivers a memorable day filled with stories, stunning views, and a taste of Greece’s timeless allure.

FAQ

Is hotel pickup included? Yes, the tour includes hotel pickup and drop-off, making the day seamless from start to finish.

Are tickets for the sites included? Yes, skip-the-line tickets for the Acropolis and Ancient Corinth are included for bookings made after January 27, 2025.

Can I request a guided tour? A licensed guide can be requested at an additional cost of $380, if available.

How long is the total driving time? The tour features a full day of sightseeing, with plenty of stops; transportation is private and comfortable.

Is this tour accessible for wheelchairs? Yes, the tour is wheelchair accessible, but some sites with uneven terrain may pose challenges.

What should I wear? Comfortable walking shoes, sun protection, and a camera are recommended.

How physically demanding is the tour? Expect moderate walking, especially around archaeological sites with uneven surfaces.

Are meals included? Lunch at a traditional Greek tavern is included, but drinks and additional snacks are not.

Can I customize the itinerary? The tour offers some flexibility, but it follows a set schedule designed for comprehensive sightseeing.

Is there an option for extra activities? Yes, at the Corinth Canal, you can opt to bungee jump (not included in the tour price).

This private tour from Olive Sea_Travel combines historical depth with a relaxed, enjoyable day—perfect for travelers seeking an authentic taste of Greece’s ancient and biblical past.