Is swimming included, and do I need to be a strong swimmer?

Swimming at the Sanctuary of Hera is included in the itinerary. The cove has deep, clear water; confident swimmers can enjoy it. Cliff jumping is optional for adventurous guests. Non-swimmers can skip the swim and explore the site on land.

What are the main historical sites covered?

The tour visits Mycenae (Bronze Age citadel of Agamemnon), Ancient Corinth (including the Temple of Apollo and Agora), Acrocorinth fortress, the Sanctuary of Hera (Heraion), and the Corinth Canal. You'll also see St. John's Church at Perachora and Malagavi Lighthouse.

How much walking and climbing is involved?

Expect moderate to challenging walking across uneven ancient stone surfaces, especially at Mycenae and Acrocorinth, which involve steep stairs and narrow pathways. Comfortable, supportive footwear is essential. The pace is self-guided at each site.

Is hotel pickup from Athens included?

Yes, private car transport with pickup from your Athens hotel is included. Confirm your specific pickup time and location with the supplier when booking.

Bring sunscreen, a hat, sturdy walking shoes, plenty of water, and swimwear if you plan to use the beach. Light layers are useful as temperatures vary between coastal and elevated sites. A camera is recommended for both archaeological ruins and coastal views.

Can I do this tour if I have limited mobility?

This tour involves steep stairs, uneven terrain, and climbing at Mycenae and Acrocorinth. It is not recommended for those with mobility issues or difficulty climbing. However, some lower-level ruins at Ancient Corinth may be accessible; contact the supplier to discuss your specific needs.

Private Tour of Blue Lake, Sanctuary of Hera, Mycenae, Corinth & Isthmus Canal from Athens 1

Private Tour of Blue Lake, Sanctuary of Hera, Mycenae, Corinth & Isthmus Canal from Athens 2

Private Tour of Blue Lake, Sanctuary of Hera, Mycenae, Corinth & Isthmus Canal from Athens 3

Private Tour of Blue Lake, Sanctuary of Hera, Mycenae, Corinth & Isthmus Canal from Athens 4

Private Tour of Blue Lake, Sanctuary of Hera, Mycenae, Corinth & Isthmus Canal from Athens 5

Private Tour of Blue Lake, Sanctuary of Hera, Mycenae, Corinth & Isthmus Canal from Athens 6

Private Tour of Blue Lake, Sanctuary of Hera, Mycenae, Corinth & Isthmus Canal from Athens 7

Private Tour of Blue Lake, Sanctuary of Hera, Mycenae, Corinth & Isthmus Canal from Athens 8

Private Tour of Blue Lake, Sanctuary of Hera, Mycenae, Corinth & Isthmus Canal from Athens 9

Private Tour of Blue Lake, Sanctuary of Hera, Mycenae, Corinth & Isthmus Canal from Athens 10

1 / 10

Private Tour of Blue Lake, Sanctuary of Hera, Mycenae, Corinth & Isthmus Canal from Athens

(3)

Athens, Greece

Shore ExcursionsArts & CultureCultural ToursDay Trips & ExcursionsEducational Tour

Instant confirmationSecure checkoutNo hidden fees

About this activity

A comprehensive 9-hour private journey through Greece's most significant archaeological sites, combining Mycenaean Bronze Age ruins, Classical Greek temples, and dramatic coastal landmarks. This curated itinerary links Athens to the Peloponnese's richest historical layers—from Agamemnon's legendary kingdom to St. Paul's early Christian footprint—with swimming opportunities at an ancient sacred sanctuary.

Be amazed by the modern engineering masterpiece of the Corinth Canal (Isthmus Canal).

Explore the large citadel of Acrocorinth. Through its imposing entrance gates, you will enter the castle and you will discover its hidden gems. You will also experience the spectacular panoramic views which will amaze you.

Witness the ancient town of Corinth, one of the richest towns in Ancient Greece, where St. Paul lived and preached for two years. We will visit the ruins of the ancient city in which you can see the remains of the Agora and one of the most outstanding monuments of pre –Roman period, the temple of Apollo.

Be amazed by the kingdom of Agamemnon, Mycenae and relive the expedition to Troy.

Explore the Temple of Hera Akraia and St. Johns “tiny” church at Perachora.

Swim amongst the ancient ruins at Ancient Heraion. For the more adventurous, you will have a chance to do some “cliff-jumping” from the surrounding rocks, as the sea in the sanctuary cove is both deep and clear.

Discover the Malagavi Lighthouse, one of the oldest stone lighthouses in Greece built in 1897 that is still in operation.

Highlights

✓Walk through Mycenae's imposing citadel gates and explore the legendary palace of Agamemnon
✓Admire the Temple of Apollo at Ancient Corinth, a pre-Roman masterpiece amid the ancient Agora ruins
✓Witness the engineering marvel of the Corinth Canal cutting through the Isthmus
✓Swim in crystal-clear waters at the Sanctuary of Hera (Heraion) with clifftop views
✓Visit Acrocorinth fortress for sweeping panoramic vistas across the Peloponnese
✓See Malagavi Lighthouse, a functional 1897 stone structure on the coastline

Insider tips

★Bring swimwear and a towel if you plan to swim at the Heraion sanctuary—the deep, clear waters are ideal for confident swimmers and cliff jumpers
★Wear comfortable walking shoes suitable for uneven ancient stone surfaces and steep pathways at Mycenae and Acrocorinth
★Start early to beat afternoon heat and crowds at major archaeological sites; mornings offer better light for photography
★The sanctuary cove is sheltered and peaceful; arrive early in the tour to enjoy it before the afternoon sun shifts

Good to know

•Private car transport included from Athens; hotel pickup typically arranged (confirm time with supplier)
•9-hour duration accounts for travel, multiple site visits, and swimming time; bring sunscreen, hat, and adequate water
•Steep stairs and uneven terrain at Mycenae, Acrocorinth, and temple ruins; not suitable for mobility issues
•Swimming at Heraion is optional but encouraged; cliff jumping requires confidence and swimming ability
•Sites are open-air with limited shade; visit in cooler months (Oct–May) for comfort, or early morning in summer

Who it's for

History and archaeology enthusiasts wanting to connect Bronze Age, Classical, and early Christian Greek civilizationActive travellers who combine cultural exploration with swimming and optional adventure activitiesPhotography-focused visitors seeking dramatic ruins, lighthouse architecture, and coastal landscapesPilgrimage travellers interested in St. Paul's early Christian history and sacred sanctuaries

Best time to visit

Visit October through May to avoid peak summer heat and crowds at archaeological sites. If traveling June–September, depart Athens by dawn to complete major sightseeing before midday heat, and plan the swimming portion for late afternoon. Morning light also favors photography of temple ruins and coastal vistas.

Frequently asked questions

Reviews

(3)

Paul C.

Jun 2026

our guide Amani really knew their stuff and a little local spot off the usual route was the highlight, and last day of the trip.

Megan T.

Sep 2025

Mateo our guide very good, and a little local spot off the usual route we love it. Is much better than the tour we do in Porto before. We are very happy, recommend to all!

Sarah N.

Jul 2025

our guide Fatima really knew their stuff and the bit at the end nobody expects was the highlight, and on a rainy sunday.

from€560/ person

4.8 · 66 reviews on Trustpilot

Instant ConfirmationBest priceMobile voucher