Mycenae and Corinth Canal half day private tour from Athens
Isthmia, GR
91% of travellers recommend this
Highlights
- Explore ancient Mycenae, home of King Agamemnon
- Cross the impressive Corinth Canal
- Discover the Lion Gate and grave circle A
- Visit the palace atop the citadel
- See the remarkable Treasury of Atreus
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Private transportation included
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Hotel/airport pickup/drop-off
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Professional drivers with history knowledge
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Bottled water provided
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Duration 5 to 6 hours
Embark on a journey through time and immerse yourself in the ancient world with the Mycenae and Corinth Canal half day private tour from Athens. Leave mainland Greece behind as you cross the impressive Corinth Canal and venture into Mycenae, a civilization that once dominated southern Greece and beyond. Marvel at the remarkably intact "cyclopean walls" of the Mycenae citadel and explore the Lion Gate, a stunning example of Mycenaean sculpture. Delve into the tomb of Clytemnestra and imagine the blood-stained past of this mighty ancient kingdom. From the underground water cistern to the golden funerary finds, every corner of Mycenae tells a story that shaped Western thought. Don't miss the chance to witness the grandeur of an era that continues to inspire historians and travelers alike. Book your adventure now and experience the awe-inspiring legacy of the Mycenaeans.
At a Glance
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Free cancellation
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5 hours
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Instant Confirmation
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Available in English
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Mobile voucher
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Private Tour
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Self-guided
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Family friendly
Featured Reviews
Explore the ancient sites of Mycenae and the Corinth Canal on a private half-day tour from Athens, with insightful commentary from expert drivers.
Included
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Private transportationPrivate transportation -
OtherProfessional drivers with deep knowledge of history (not licensed to accompany you in any site)
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On-board WiFiWiFi on board
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Bottled waterBottled water
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In-vehicle air conditioningAir-conditioned vehicle
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OtherHotel/ airport/ port pickup and drop-off
Excluded
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OtherLicensed tour guide (upon request and depending on availability) -
GratuitiesGratuities
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Entrance feesMycenae & Archaeological Museum of Mycenae & Treasury of Atreus (can be purchased on-site)
Pickup
Check if pick-up is available from your location, you will select during checkout (providers may allow other pickup locations)
What to expect
The Corinth Canal connects the Gulf of Corinth in the Ionian Sea with the Saronic Gulf in the Aegean Sea. It cuts through the narrow Isthmus of Corinth and separates the Peloponnese from the Greek mainland, arguably making the peninsula an island. The canal was dug through the isthmus at sea level and has no locks. It is 6.4 kilometres (4 mi) in length and only 21.4 metres (70 ft) wide at its base, making it impassable for many modern ships. From high up, you can enjoy the best view of Corinth's isthmus and admire the steep limestone walls while you observe the vessels below you navigate their way through the canal.
20 minutes
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. Admire sites such as the Tomb of Clytemnestra, the infamous Lion’s Gate, the Cyclopean walls and learn of their blood-stained past. In the second millennium BC, Mycenae was one of the major centres of Greek civilization, a military stronghold which dominated much of southern Greece, Crete, the Cyclades and parts of southwest Anatolia. The period of Greek history from about 1600 BC to about 1100 BC is called Mycenaean in reference to Mycenae. At its peak in 1350 BC, the citadel and lower town had a population of 30,000 and an area of 32 hectares.
60 minutes
The archaeological site of Mycenae comprises the fortified acropolis and surrounding funerary and habitation sites, which are located mainly to its west and southwest. Most of the visible monuments date to the centre's great floruit, from 1350 to 1200 BC. Great Cyclopean walls surround the almost triangular acropolis, which is accessed from the northwest through the famous Lion Gate, the symbol of the Mycenaean rulers' power. The gate was named after the two opposing lions carved in relief and set into the relieving triangle, a typical feature of Mycenaean architecture, over the door.
30 minutes
Admission Not Included
The Lion Gate was the main entrance of the Bronze Age citadel of Mycenae, southern Greece. It was erected during the 13th century BC, around 1250 BC, in the northwest side of the acropolis and is named after the relief sculpture of two lionesses or lions in a heraldic pose that stands above the entrance. The Lion Gate is the sole surviving monumental piece of Mycenaean sculpture, as well as the largest sculpture in the prehistoric Aegean. It is the only monument of Bronze Age Greece to bear an iconographic motif that survived without being buried underground, and the only relief image which was described in the literature of classical antiquity, such that it was well known prior to modern archaeology.
The archaeological site of Mycenae comprises the fortified acropolis and surrounding funerary and habitation sites, which are located mainly to its west and southwest. Most of the visible monuments date to the centre's great floruit, from 1350 to 1200 BC. Great Cyclopean walls surround the almost triangular acropolis, which is accessed from the northwest through the famous Lion Gate, the symbol of the Mycenaean rulers' power. The gate was named after the two opposing lions carved in relief and set into the relieving triangle, a typical feature of Mycenaean architecture, over the door.
30 minutes
Admission Not Included
The Treasury of Atreus or Tomb of Agamemnon is a large tholos or beehive tomb on Panagitsa Hill at Mycenae constructed during the Bronze Age around 1250 BC. The stone lintel above the doorway weighs 120 tons, with approximate dimensions 8.3 x 5.2 x 1.2m, the largest in the world. The tomb was used for an unknown period. Mentioned by the Roman geographer Pausanias in the 2nd century AD, it was still visible in 1879 when the German archaeologist Heinrich Schliemann discovered the shaft graves under the "agora" in the Acropolis at Mycenae.
15 minutes
The experience can be subject to change due to bad weather or unforseen circumstances. We always endeavour to give you the best possible experience.
Additional Information
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Airport pick-up/ drop-off upon request (additional charge) -
Infants are required to sit on an adult’s lap
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Our drivers are not official tour guides, but they are knowledgeable and can provide fascinating commentary in fluent English. Although they will not enter the archaeological sites with you, they can answer all of your questions about the places you visit with this tour.
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Public transportation options are available nearby
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Specialized infant seats are available
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Suitable for all physical fitness levels
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Third party activities and especially extreme sports are not allowed during the tour. This can be a cause for immediate cancellation of the tour.
What our experts say
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Visit the Archaeological Museum nearby. -
Try local olives at a nearby market.
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Plan lunch at a taverna in Mycenae.
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Wear comfortable shoes for exploring.
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Bring a camera for stunning views.
More About this Experience
Introduction
Experience the wonders of ancient Greece on the Mycenae and Corinth Canal half day private tour from Athens. Journey south of Athens to the Peloponnese region and embark on a fascinating exploration of Mycenae, one of the most significant cultures of the ancient world. Immerse yourself in the rich history and mythology as you visit the cyclopean walls of the citadel, the Lion Gate, and the impressive beehive tombs. Discover how this ancient civilization served as inspiration for great tragedians and shaped Western thought.What to expect?
On this private tour, you can anticipate a captivating journey through time, delving into the mysteries of the Mycenaean civilization. Marvel at the well-preserved architecture and artifacts that provide evidence of the grandeur of this ancient era. Your knowledgeable driver will share fascinating insights into the history and significance of each site, allowing you to fully appreciate the cultural and historical importance of Mycenae.Who is this for?
This tour is perfect for history enthusiasts, mythology lovers, and anyone seeking a deeper understanding of ancient civilizations. Whether you are a seasoned traveler or a first-time visitor to Greece, this experience will leave you in awe of the rich cultural heritage that shaped Western civilization.Why book this?
Embarking on the Mycenae and Corinth Canal private tour offers a unique opportunity to explore the lesser-known wonders of Greece. With a professional driver who possesses extensive knowledge of history, you will gain valuable insights into the Mycenaean civilization. The convenience of hotel/airport/port pickup and drop-off, private transportation, and WiFi on board ensures a comfortable and hassle-free experience. Immerse yourself in the ancient world and discover the secrets of Mycenae.Good to know
While a licensed tour guide is not included, you can request one depending on availability. It is important to note that the entry or admission fees for archaeological sites are not included. We recommend bringing comfortable shoes and a camera to capture the awe-inspiring sights of Mycenae. Don't forget to stay hydrated with bottled water provided throughout the tour.Reviews
Travelers who have experienced the Mycenae and Corinth Canal private tour have praised its immersive and informative nature. They appreciate the in-depth knowledge shared by the drivers, which enhances their understanding of the ancient civilization. Visitors have marveled at the well-preserved ruins and the grandeur of Mycenae, considering it a must-visit for history enthusiasts. Overall, the tour has received positive feedback for its seamless organization and the unique insights it provides into Greece's rich history.
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