Corinth, Epidaurus & Nafplio: Private Day Trip from Athens

Summary

From Athens to the Peloponnese’s ancient crossroads and seaside charm

You’ll cross the Corinth Canal with its dizzying views, walk among ancient ruins in Corinth, test whispers at Epidaurus’ legendary theater, and lose yourself in Nafplio’s colorful alleys. With private transport from Athens and a traditional Greek lunch included, expect history you can touch—and moments you’ll want to replay long after you’re back home.

What’s the experience like?

“You ever seen water that blue?” That’s what our driver, Giorgos, asked as we pulled up to the edge of the Corinth Canal. I had to admit, I hadn’t. The wind whipped up from below and carried this sharp, salty smell — almost metallic. We watched a little cargo boat inching through that narrow cut, its wake bouncing off limestone walls that looked like they’d been scraped out by giants. Giorgos told us how the canal made the Peloponnese an island in everything but name. He pointed out some graffiti on the bridge — apparently teenagers come here at night just for the echo.

Ancient Corinth was quieter than I expected. There were only a handful of other people wandering between columns and wildflowers. The stones were warm under my hand — sun-baked, rough. Giorgos wasn’t allowed inside with us (something about guide licenses), but he waited at the entrance and later explained how Saint Paul wrote his letters here. I’m not religious, but something about standing where so many stories started hit me harder than I thought it would.

Epidaurus was next — honestly, I didn’t get what all the fuss was about until I stood in the center of that old theater and whispered just to see if my friend could hear me way up top (she could). There was this dry pine scent everywhere, cicadas buzzing like static in August heat. Lunch came after — grilled fish and tomatoes that tasted like actual sunshine. Nafplio was our last stop; pastel houses stacked along steep streets, old Venetian fortresses watching over lazy boats in the harbor. We got lost on purpose for a bit, following cats through alleys painted blue and pink.

I keep thinking about that view from Palamidi fortress — wind tangling my hair while Giorgos tried to count the steps (he says there are 999; locals argue it’s more). The day felt both long and too short somehow. If you’re looking for a day trip from Athens that isn’t just ticking boxes, this one sticks with you — even if your legs are sore by dinner.

Step-by-step itinerary

Day 1 — Explore Corinth, Epidaurus, and Nafplio

• View Corinth Canal from above
• Visit Ancient Corinth ruins
• Tour Archaeological Museum of Corinth
• See Temple of Apollo at Corinth
• Explore Acrocorinth fortress
• Visit Archaeological Museum of Epidaurus
• See Ancient Theatre of Epidaurus
• Visit Temple of Asclepius sanctuary
• Free time in Nafplio for lunch and shopping
• View Bourtzi water castle from harbor
• Pass by Acronauplia old town area
• Visit Palamidi fortress in Nafplio

Top questions

How long is the drive from Athens to Ancient Corinth?

It takes about 1 hour by car from Athens to Ancient Corinth.

Is lunch included on this private day trip?

Yes, a traditional Greek lunch is included during your tour.

Can I visit inside archaeological sites with my driver?

No, drivers provide commentary outside but cannot guide you inside sites due to licensing rules.

Are there steps at Palamidi fortress in Nafplio?

Yes—locals say there are 999 steps leading up to Palamidi fortress.

What makes Epidaurus theater special?

The theater is famous for its perfect acoustics—you can hear a whisper from any seat.

Is hotel pickup available for this tour?

Yes, hotel or airport/port pickup and drop-off are included.

How much time do we spend in Nafplio?

You’ll have free time for lunch or exploring Nafplio’s harbor and backstreets before heading back.

Is bottled water provided during the trip?

Bottled water is included throughout your private tour.

What’s included

Your day includes private air-conditioned transportation with WiFi onboard, bottled water throughout the journey, pickup and drop-off at your hotel or port in Athens, plus a traditional Greek lunch option (with vegetarian choices). Your professional driver shares local stories along the way—even if they can’t enter sites with you—and infant seats are available if needed.