Sparta

Tours

Follow the footsteps of Apostle Paul, one of the most emblematic personalities of the early Christian era, a supporter of the universality of Jesus' teaching. Be amazed by the modern engineering masterpiece of the Corinth Canal (Isthmus Canal). Discover and explore the ancient passage from the Corinthian to Saronic gulf and the sub-ducting bridge. Here you can enjoy a coffee or snack at a wonderful cafe while you admire the views and wait for boats to pass through the 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. Explore the incredible archaeological site of ancient Corinth, which includes a fabulous museum, courtyard, temple of Apollo, Fountain of Glauke, Sacred Spring, Peirene, Asklepieion, Odeion, Bema, Agora, and much more. After your shopping time you will be driven to the port of Kechries. Total Duration: 8 hours Athens, Athens, Attica, pass by without stopping Flisvos Marina, Palaio Faliro, Paleo Faliro 17561 Greece (15 minutes) Areopagus Hill, Theorias 21, Athina 105 55, Greece (20 minutes) We will visit the Pagos Hill on the Acropolis site, where the apostle Paul preached the gospel to the Athenians about the unknown God. Corinth Canal, Isthmia, Loutraki 201 00 Greece (20 minutes) The Corinth Canal is a waterway that crosses the narrow isthmus of Corinth to link the Gulf of Corinth to the Saronic Gulf. As such, the canal separates the Greek mainland from the Peloponnese, turning it into an island Ancient Corinth (Archaia Korinthos), Argous 105 Corinth was a city-state on the Isthmus of Corinth, the narrow stretch of land that joins the Peloponnese to the mainland of Greece, roughly halfway between Athens and Sparta. For Christians, Corinth is well known from the two letters of Saint Paul in the New Testament, First and Second Corinthians. Corinth is also mentioned in the Acts of the Apostles as part of Paul the Apostle's missionary travels. In addition, the second book of Pausanias' Description of Greece is devoted to Corinth. Ancient Corinth was one of the largest and most important cities of Greece, with a population of 90,000 in 400 BC. The Romans demolished Corinth in 146 B.C. Ancient Korinthos village, Corinth 200 07 Greece (1 hour) The Diolkos, Palaia Ethniki Odos Athinon-Patron Poseidonos 76, Loutraki 201 00 Greece (10 minutes) Akrokorinthos, Corinth 200 07 Greece (30 minutes) Ancient Corinth (Archaia Korinthos), Argous 105 Ancient Korinthos village, Corinth 200 07 Greece (pass by without stopping) Temple of Apollo, Ancient Corinth, Corinth 20007 Greece (10 minutes) Apostolou Pavlou, Korinthos 201 00, Greece (20 minutes) Archaia Korinthos, Archaia Korinthos, Corinthia Region, Peloponnese (pass by without stopping) Kechries, Kechries, Corinthia Region, Peloponnese (30 minutes) Corinth, Corinth, Corinthia Region, Peloponnese (45 minutes)

See the Gates of Fire, deriving from the hot sulphur springs and the cavernous entrance to Hades. Experience the monument of King Leonidas, erected in 1955 and created by the sculptor Vasos Falireas. At the Thermopylae Museum, learn about the 480 BC battle that changed the course of Greek history and western civilization before seeing the baths of Thermopylae. In Delphi, see the Temple of Apollo, the Ancient Theater, the Stadium, the Athenian Treasury, the Gymnasium, and the Sanctuary of Athena Pronaia. The Naxian Sphinx, which dates to 560 BC, is a fascinating stop before seeing the Metopes of the Athenian Treasury, Omphalos, Kleobis and Biton, Statue of Antinoos, and the famous Charioteer. Enjoy a traditional lunch on the Caldera at Delphi, overlooking fabulous Itea and Amfissa before driving back to a designated location in Athens.

1. Corinth Canal, Isthmia, Loutraki 201 00 Greece, 20 minutes The Corinth Canal is a waterway that crosses the narrow isthmus of Corinth to link the Gulf of Corinth to the Saronic Gulf. As such, the canal separates the Greek mainland from the Peloponnese, turning it into an island 2. Ancient Corinth (Archaia Korinthos), Argous 105 Corinth was a city-state on the Isthmus of Corinth, the narrow stretch of land that joins the Peloponnese to the mainland of Greece, roughly halfway between Athens and Sparta. The modern city of Corinth is located approximately 5 kilometres (3.1 mi) northeast of the ancient ruins. For Christians, Corinth is well known from the two letters of Saint Paul in the New Testament, First and Second Corinthians. Corinth is also mentioned in the Acts of the Apostles as part of Paul the Apostle's missionary travels. 3. Ancient Korinthos village, Corinth 200 07 Greece, 1 hour 30 minutes 4. Akrokorinthos, Corinth 200 07 Greece, 30 minutes Acrocorinth, "Upper Corinth", the acropolis of ancient Corinth, is a monolithic rock overseeing the ancient city of Corinth, Greece. With its secure water supply, Acrocorinth's fortress was repeatedly used as a last line of defense in southern Greece because it commanded the Isthmus of Corinth, repelling foes from entry by land into the Peloponnese peninsula. 5. Archaeological Museum of Corinth, Old Corinth, Corinth 20010 Greece, 30 minutes 6. Archaeological Site Mycenae, Mycenae 21200 Greece, The fortified citadel of ancient Mycenae, the seat of the mythical and mighty King Agamemnon. An impressive and well-preserved site, the city of Mycenae gave its name to an entire civilization 7. Mycenae, Mycenae, Argolis Region, Peloponnese, 1 hour 8. Lion Gate, Mycenae Greece, 29 minutes Archaeological Museum of Ancient Mycenae, 9. Mycenae Greece, 45 minutes Citadel and Treasury of Atreus, Mycenae Greece, 15 minutes 10. , Nafplio, Argolis Region, Peloponnese, 1 hour 30 minutes Nafplio is a seaport town in the peloponnese in Greece that was expanded up the hillsides near the north end of the Argolic Gulf.The town was an important seaport held under a successsional of royal houses in the middle Ages as a part of the loardship of ARGOS and NAUPLIA 11. Palamidi Castle, Eikostis Pemptis Martiou, Nafplio 211 00 Greece, 30 minutes One of the most well-preserved castles in all of Greece, Palamidi offers spectacular views of the city from its loopholes, wonderful routes inside and terrifying terrain in the hole-prison of Kolokotronis 12. Akronafplia Fortress, Nafplio Greece, 10 minutes 13. Bourtzi, The Harbor, Nafplio Greece, 10 minutes Nafplio, Nafplio, Argolis Region, Peloponnese, 1 hour A) Shopping B) Free time C) Lunch Greek Traditional Taverna

Sparta is one of Greece's most fascinating archaeological sites. Save hours by taking this day excursion, which includes air-conditioned private transportation to Sparta and the neighboring remains of Mystras. The tour also includes a visit to the award-winning Domaine Skouras winery for a tasting.A unique private tour that includes history, culture and tastings.Once known as the wonder of Morea, the ancient city of Mystras is an impeccably-preserved Byzantine city built into a towering mountain. It can be difficult to make your own way to Mystras; this private tour takes that difficulty out of the equation. Explore the city described by the UNESCO World Heritage List as a splendid complex of palaces then drive to historic Sparta, where you’ll visit an ancient citadel and the statue of King Leonidas.Learn about the history of the Spartan city-state at the Archeological Museum of Sparta.Enjoy an authentic mediterranean lunch at quaint local taverna.

This amazing tour will give you an excellent to the discovery of the history of Laconia combining Ancient Greek and Medieval Greek history. We will begin with a drive along the coast. On the way, you passing some Greek seaside villages and the heroic Salamis Island (where the historical naval battle took place between the Athenians and the Persians). Soon after will be our first stop at the Corinth Canal. Operating since 1892 dividing the Peloponnese Peninsula from the rest of Greece while connecting the Saronic Gulf to the Corinthian Sea. Walking across the pedestrian bridge will be in awe of what has been accomplished here, on some days bungee jumping is an option. Leaving the canal we will head towards Mystras driving into the southern Peloponnese Peninsula through the mountainous landscape of the Greek countryside. Reaching Mystras you will automatically understand why this location stands so unique within the Greek sites. Known as the ghost city, fortified on a citadel, Mystras is one of the two locations in Greece that preserves not only medieval churches but also ordinary houses, mansions and palaces of the Byzantine Empire in combination with Frankish elements. Walking in the site on the upper point you will reach the citadel and enjoy a magnificent view of the surrounding areas while walking downhill you will meet the palaces and the Royal courtyards. Although known as the ghost city most of the monasteries are still in use and the monks will gladly show you around their small society. Before you exit you will come across the chapel of St. Demetrios, on its floor survives a plaque depicting a two head eagle (the symbol of Byzantium). It was on this very plaque that Konstantine Palaiologos kneeled before he was crowned the last Byzantine emperor. Before visiting Sparta we will stop at a traditional Greek tavern at the small village of Mystras. Following we will spend the rest of our time in Sparta, known as the eternal rival city of the Athenian Democracy. Sparta revolved around a different Cosmo theory for the ancient Greek standards. Initially known as the birthplace of Helen of Troy and the Kingdom of Menelaus (in the Mycenaean period), Sparta was organized as a purely military society in the ancient Greek period. It was the city of the two Kings were a few aristocrats ruled and of course the city where Leonidas and his 300 Spartans marched from to face the Persian army in Thermopylae in 480BCE. The city whose one soldier counted as ten soldiers from any other Greek city. Reaching Sparta we will visit the ancient citadel of Sparta where you will have a view of the ancient theater being revealed gradually in front of your eyes. Continuing we will pass in front of the stadium where the statue of King Leonidas stands marking the ending point of Spartathlon race (Athens – Sparta 245,3 km). Lastly, we will visit the archaeological museum of Sparta and before we depart for Athens we will also visit the museum of (olive and) olive oil.

Roughly halfway between Athens and Sparta on the Peloponnese Peninsula of Greece is Corinth. It’s a famous city, though not for the modern city that now sits on the Isthmus of Corinth (the narrow stretch of land that joins the Peloponnese to mainland Greece) but for the ancient city it once was. Visiting Corinth and the Acrocorinth is a must-do for history buffs and fans of ancient Greek mythology. These two important historic sites are some of the most important in the Peloponnese and can easily be seen together in one day. The ancient city of Corinth holds a significant place in Greek history for its strategic location, prosperous trade, and influential culture. Situated between the Ionian Sea and the Aegean Sea, Corinth controlled the narrow Isthmus, a key trade route connecting the Mediterranean and the Black Sea and founding location of the Isthmian Games. The Apostle Paul visited Corinth in the 1st century CE and established a Christian community there. It was said he arrived in Corinth in 49 or 50 AD and created the first Church of Corinth, where he met Priscilla and Aquila, who became two of the Seventy Disciples. His letters to the Corinthians, known as the First and Second Epistles to the Corinthians, form an integral part of the New Testament.

Discover the rich olive oil culture of Crete on a private tour from Chania. Visit the legendary Ancient Olive Tree in Ano Vouves, explore the fascinating Olive Museum, and finish the trip with a guided tour and olive oil tasting at the Violaia Olive Mill. Uncover the rich olive oil culture of Crete on this 5-hour private tour from Chania. Visit the legendary Ancient Olive Tree in Ano Vouves, believed to be over 3,000 years old, explore the fascinating Olive Museum, and finish the trip with a guided tour and olive oil tasting at the Violaia Olive Mill. Enjoy a comfortable and scenic ride through the beautiful Cretan countryside in a private SUV. Visit the world's oldest olive tree, an awe-inspiring living monument over 3,000 years old, and learn about its historical significance. Step back in time at the Olive Museum, where you’ll explore the history of olive cultivation and production on the island. Learn about ancient and modern methods of olive oil extraction. Discover modern olive oil production techniques at this family-run mill. Enjoy a guided tour and indulge in an olive oil tasting session with premium extra virgin olive oils.

After a short drive through the center of Athens, your personal tour driver will take the scenic coastal road of the Saronic Gulf, towards the Peloponnese peninsula. After approx 50 minutes drive, you will reach the famous Corinth Canal, which connects the Ionian sea (West Greece) with the Aegean sea (East Greece). Stop for spectacular pictures from the canal bridge, and continue towards Sparta and Mystras. Sparta… A city-state founded by the Dorian’s in 11C BC well known for its citizen soldiers, strict military training, and powerful army with excellent skills. The most famous battle of the many in their history is the battle of Thermopylae. In 480 BC, a huge Persian army was trying to invade Greece. Barring the way at the mountain pass of Thermopylae where 300 Spartan soldiers led by King Leonidas, along with a few hundred Arcadians and Thespians. Do Not Miss To Visit: The Archaeological Museum of Sparta with its amazing artifacts and statues,- contains; Roman sculptures, small objects from sanctuaries at Sparta, mosaics, Laconian reliefs, inscribed Stella from the temple of Artemis Orthia, prehistoric collections. The Museum of the Olive and Greek Olive Oil witch is nicely set and it is very informative of the history of olive cultivation and the produce of olive oil since ancient times. Here you will find out about the many varieties of olives and all the relevant details, and see many works of art figures from over fifteen thousand years old fossilized leaves coming from Santorini. The Acropolis of Sparta is situated on a hillside just outside the town center and consists of the ancient Roman Agora, Temple of Athena Chalkionos, the Theatre, the church of the Christ Savoir, the cyclical building, and the remains of many other elements. Visiting the remains of the Acropolis, you may still see traces of the Spartan glory. The Menelaion is one of the world’s most astounding places, and you will be in a beautiful setting with the most glorious views. You look over the ancient Evrotas valley and Sparta and see the majestic peaks of the Taygetos mountains. There are two impressive monuments at this place, a bronze age palace, and a classical/Hellenistic shrine. Both are well preserved (not reachable today due to the extremely bad condition of the road). An emblem and an important monument of modern Sparta is the tomb of Leonidas. Also known as Leonidion. It is located north of Sparta’s modern city. Excavations of the previous century have brought in to light an impressive building measuring 12.5X8.30m. Mystras only 7km from Sparta, Mystras was the capital of the Despotate of Morea and the second city of the Byzantine Empire for a long period of its history. A unique site for anyone into history and the relation art/history/religion/culture. The place is mystic with Byzantine ruins and you can walk inside the ancient castle. At the end of visiting the sites, your private driver will drive you back to Athens arriving late in the afternoon.

On this tour you will have the chance to visit the famous Corinth Canal, Sparta and Mystras, while you will also admire the picturesque landscape of the Peloponnese. The tour starts early in the morning. After a short stop at the famous Corinth Canal, which connects the Ionian Sea with the Aegean Sea, the tour continues to Sparta and Mystras. Sparta is one of the most historical destinations, an ancient center which is famous for its well organized ancient army. It was founded by the Dorians in the 9th century and developed into the most powerful military city by Lycurgus. Leonidas was also a warrior king of the Greek city-state of Sparta. In 480 BC the king Leonidas and 300 Spartans won the huge Persian army during the famous battle of Thermopylae. Mystras or Myzythras is located only 7 km from Sparta. It was the capital of the Byzantine Despotate of Morea the second most important city and a fortress of the Byzantine Empire as well. Finally, when the tour is over, you will return to Athens.

One of our favorite tours, dedicated to those who fell in the name of freedom. This special tour was designed to accommodate those interested in ancient Greek battles, those who want to discover two major battlefields of the Persian wars, the plane of Marathon and Thermopylae. We head out from Athens to the sacred plain of Marathon driving through Attica Highway and Marathon Avenue. This is the course of the original Marathon Race, as you will see by the signs that count each kilometer. Later we will reach the Tumulus of the Athenians; the site portrays courage, bravery and finally the victory of the Athenians against the Persians in 490 BCE. Moving on we will also see the Marathon Battlefield, its Archaeological Museum and a prehistoric cemetery that produces proof of the first civilized presence in this location. Driving by the present city of Marathon our last stop in this area we will be Marathon Lake, on the slopes of Mt Penteli. It is an artificial lake operated as the main water reservoir for Athens. Besides the magnificent view, you see the Marathon Dam, a miracle of engineering, unique due to the fact that it’s the only one in the world made entirely of Pentelic marble (king of all marbles, used for the Parthenon, on Acropolis Hill). Moreover, at the bottom, you will see an excellent modern model of the treasury of the Athenians which was located in the sanctuary of Delphi. Next, we will be back on board for a drive to Thermopylae. It was here that 10 years after the Battle of Marathon, King Leonidas and his 300 brave Spartans heroically faced the Persian army. In the Historical Center, an informative 3D movie will be shown. As if traveling through time you will feel the presence of heroes who stood their ground for their freedom against a foreign conqueror. To conclude you will visit the statue of Leonidas standing exactly opposite Kolonos Hill where the persistent Spartans left their last breath. A place too sacred for words. Heading back to Athens we will stop at the coastal town of Kammena Vourla, where we will enjoy a relaxing, traditional Greek lunch by the sea. And to terminate the tour we will drive back to Athens safe and sound.