If your cruise ship is docking in Athens, don’t miss the chance to unlock the secrets of one of the most powerful and mythically rich cities of Ancient Greece—Corinth. Just an hour’s drive from the bustling city, Ancient Corinth offers timeless beauty, deep spirituality, and majestic ruins.
With TPO.Travel’s Private Half-Day Shore Excursion, enjoy a luxury, guided experience that blends history, mythology, and Christian heritage, all while exploring in comfort and style. From the famed Corinth Canal to the Temple of Apollo, and even the port where St. Paul disembarked, this tour is a must for lovers of history, faith, and culture.
Depart in Style: From Piraeus Port to the Peloponnesian Gateway
Your excursion begins as soon as you step off the ship. A private air-conditioned luxury vehicle and expert licensed guide from TPO.Travel await you at the Piraeus Port. After a warm welcome, you’ll head westward, following the picturesque coastline of the Saronic Gulf, where the blue waters stretch endlessly into the horizon.
On this scenic drive, your guide will begin unveiling the rich tapestry of Ancient Greece, from city-states and philosophers to gods and gladiators. In under an hour, you’ll reach one of Greece’s most jaw-dropping feats of modern engineering…
Marvel at the Corinth Canal: Man’s Challenge to Nature
Before Ancient Corinth, you’ll pause to admire the awe-inspiring Corinth Canal. Carved straight through a rocky isthmus, this 6.3-kilometer-long waterway connects the Aegean Sea to the Ionian Sea. It may not be ancient, but it’s certainly epic.
The narrow canal—just 21 meters wide—is flanked by sheer limestone cliffs, creating a dramatic photo opportunity. Built in the 19th century, the canal fulfilled a dream dating back to Emperor Nero, who first attempted its construction in 67 AD.
Today, it’s a marvel for sightseers and maritime travelers alike—an iconic start to your historic adventure.
Explore Ancient Corinth: A Crossroads of Civilization
Just a short drive away lies Ancient Corinth, once one of the richest cities in classical antiquity. Known for its strategic location where mainland Greece meets the Peloponnese, Corinth became a flourishing center of trade, power, and cultural exchange.
Upon arrival, you’ll enter the archaeological site with your professional guide and step back in time. Some highlights include:
Temple of Apollo
One of the oldest surviving Doric temples in Greece, dating to the 6th century BC. Its majestic limestone columns stand proudly against the sky, a testament to Corinth’s ancient grandeur.
The Agora (Marketplace)
Wander through the remains of what was once a bustling hub of commerce, debate, and daily life. In ancient times, the Agora was the political and economic heart of Corinth.
St. Paul’s Legacy
Ancient Corinth holds special significance for Christian travelers. The Apostle Paul lived and preached here for two years, addressing the Corinthians in two letters now found in the New Testament. Your guide will point out spots traditionally associated with Paul’s mission—including the Bema, where he stood before Roman officials.
Fountain of Peirene
In Greek mythology, the Peirene spring was a gift of the gods—believed to be a sacred source of poetic inspiration, it once quenched the thirst of travelers and poets alike.
Corinth in Myth and Legend: Jason, Medea, and the Gods
More than just ruins and religion, Corinth is steeped in Greek mythology. Your guide will unravel tales of Jason and Medea, who found refuge here after fleeing with the Golden Fleece. According to myth, it’s also where Pegasus, the winged horse, drank from the city’s sacred springs.
This blend of fact and fable, of archaeology and allegory, gives Corinth a timeless atmosphere that few other ancient sites can match.
The Archaeological Museum of Ancient Corinth
Depending on your pace, you may also visit the on-site museum, home to an exquisite collection of Roman statues, mosaics, and everyday artifacts. Highlights include:
- Sculptures of Roman emperors
- Pottery spanning centuries of Corinthian craftsmanship
- Mosaics from villas once owned by elite citizens
- A stunning collection of early Christian artifacts
The museum offers insight into how Corinthians lived, worshipped, and interacted with the wider ancient world—from Athens and Sparta to Rome and beyond.
Kechries Port: Where Paul’s Journey Continued
On your return to Athens, enjoy a short scenic stop at Kechries (Cenchreae) Port, the eastern harbor of Ancient Corinth. This is where St. Paul is believed to have disembarked when leaving Corinth for his next mission.
It’s a quiet, peaceful spot today—but its spiritual resonance remains powerful, especially for Christian visitors retracing Paul’s missionary journey.
Why Book with TPO.Travel?
TPO.Travel isn’t just a transport company—it’s a curator of luxurious experiences. Your Ancient Corinth tour includes:
- Private luxury transport from and to Piraeus port
- Professional English-speaking guide
- Tailored commentary to your interests—be it biblical, archaeological, or mythological
- Flexibility to add or modify stops
- On-time return guarantee for cruise ship passengers
We ensure that your half-day tour feels like a full immersion into Ancient Greece’s layered history.
Useful Tips for Your Shore Excursion
- Tour duration: Approx. 4.5–5 hours round-trip
- Wear comfortable shoes – the ruins have uneven terrain
- Bring sun protection – hat, sunscreen, sunglasses
- Don’t forget your camera – the canal, ruins, and coastal views are unforgettable
- Spiritual travelers: Ask your guide for additional details about St. Paul’s ministry here
A Sacred and Majestic Journey Back in Time
The Ancient Corinth Shore Excursion with TPO.Travel offers something for everyone—majestic ruins, deep biblical connections, and mythic tales all wrapped into a perfectly timed escape from Athens.
Whether you’re a history buff, a pilgrim, or simply someone who loves exploring beyond the ordinary, this private tour gives you the freedom, comfort, and cultural insight to make the most of your time ashore.
Let TPO.Travel turn your half-day into a once-in-a-lifetime journey.
Book now and let the echoes of antiquity guide your steps through Corinth.