A private day tour from Athens to Mycenae-Epidaurus
The northeast Peloponnese region is less than a two-hour drive from Athens, a locality rich in history, myths, and legends.
Why visiting Mycenae is worthwhile
Every mile along the journey opens a new chapter in history. On the tour from Athens to Mycenae, you’ll pass over the impressive Corinth Canal. A brief stopover at the Canal on the old bridge is required to admire the upright sides of the Isthmus.Then, the tour heads to Mycenae.
Visiting Mycenae, a UNESCO World Heritage Site, is a trip back to the prehistoric era.
Explore the ruins of Mycenae, the remarkable bridges, fortification walls, tholos-shaped tombs, and the famous lion gate.
The most famous of the Tholos tombs at Mycenae is the Treasury of Atreus.
The Tomb of Agamemnon is a circular chamber where his possessions were also buried. Many of these are exhibited now in the Mycenae Museum.
Mycenae Palace is a citadel with the remains of a palace at the top.
Lion Gate Mycenae givesaccess to the fortified part of Mycenae. This is the most emblematical part of the site.The two lions facing each other and the Cyclopean stonework are remarkable.
The Cistern Passage is a tunnel to an underground cistern, where the Mycenae stored their water supply.
Nafplio: one of the most picturesque coastal towns in Greece.
After a half-hour drive from Mycenae, we reach Nafplio, one of the most picturesque coastal towns in Greece.
Palamidi Castle is one of the top attractions to visit in Nafplio. You can get there by car or climb its renowned “999 steps” to enjoy breathtaking views over Nafplio and the Argolic Gulf.
Akronafplia is actually the oldest castle in Nafplio, once occupied by the Romans, the Byzantines, the Franks, and the Venetians. Today, there is not much to see as the castle’s buildings are in ruins. But theplace offers magnificent views of the Old Town and Bourtzi Fortress.
The tiny island near the port Bourtzi Fortress is Nafplio’s famous landmark. It was the residence of the executioners of Palamidi, later it housed the Greek Governments and then served as a luxury hotel & restaurant.Now, it is one of Nafplio’s top attractions, you can visit by boat. Today, it hosts many cultural events.
Arvanitia Promenade is ideal for a stroll along the peaceful seaside trail, from Nafplio round to Akronafplia Hill, all the way to Arvanitia Beach.
In the quaint Old Town of Nafplio wander in the alleys under the shade of colorful bougainvillea and admire neoclassical buildings. Don’t miss Psaromachalas, a fish neighborhood, the oldest in Nafplio.
Interesting museums to visit
The Archaeological Museum is in a splendid Venetian mansionon Syntagma Square.
The War Museum is in the impressive building of the first Military School in Greece.
The unique Komboloi Museum exhibits a collection of Greekworry beads. There, you can buy a komboloi, as a souvenir.
Syntagma Square is a lively spot to enjoy Greek coffee before leaving for our next stop, Epidaurus.
Epidaurus is among the most famous archaeological sites in Greece. Epidaurus was the birthplace of Asklepios, the healing god. It is near the famous Ancient Theatre of Epidaurus with its imposing architecture and exceptional acoustics. Today, this ancient theatre hosts ancient Greek dramas in summer.
Another fascinating site is the Archaeological Museum of Ancient Epidaurus, which exhibits statues and relics found in the archaeological site of Epidaurus.
More sights to see near the ancient theatre:
The Temple of Asclepius is one of the most significant sanctuaries in Greece. Presently, only a few columns are still standing.
Tholos is a circular white marble building believed to have been a temple.
The remains of a fifth-century stadiumare still visible today.
This private tour to Mycenae, Nafplio, and Epidaurus is customized for your needs to enjoy a memorable experience. Book now for a once-in-a-lifetime journey through the ancient civilization in the Peloponnese!
Tour Highlights
- Taxi 4 passengers
- Minivan for maximum 8 passengers
- Duration 9-10 hours
- 2,5 hours distance
- Short stop Korinthos canal
- Archeological site of Korinthos
- Mycenae archeological site & Museum
- Nafplio for food
- Return to Athens
- Extra time & cost if you would like to go to Nemea for wine tasting
- Extra time & cost for visiting Epidaurus ancient theater
