Mycenae Day Private Tour
8 HOURS UP TO 8 PERSONS FREE CANCELLATION
Embark on an extraordinary journey across the Corinth Canal, venturing beyond mainland Greece to unlock the mysteries of Mycenae, a civilization steeped in myth and legend, and intricately tied to the fabled King Agamemnon. This ancient realm gave birth to the illustrious Mycenaean culture, renowned for its formidable “cyclopean walls” encircling the Mycenae citadel, unearthed by the pioneering archaeologist Heinrich Schliemann.
The Mycenaean civilization, a wellspring of inspiration for ancient tragedians, stands as a cornerstone of Western thought and culture. Explore iconic landmarks such as the imposing Lion Gate, the sacred Grave Circle A adorned with golden treasures, the regal palace boasting a majestic throne room, and the enigmatic beehive tombs known as “tholos”, each a testament to the grandeur and sophistication of a bygone era. Join us on a captivating journey through the cultural legacy of Mycenae, where the echoes of the past reverberate through the corridors of time.
CULTURAL
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MUSEUMS
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ANCIENT SITES
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RELAX
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- Professional drivers with deep knowledge of history (Not licensed to accompany you in any site)
- Skip the line option upon request – entrance tickets not included
- Athens hotel/ Piraeus port pickup and drop-off
- Private transportation
- Air-conditioned vehicle
- WiFi on board
- Bottled water
- Entrance tickets – €35 per person for all attractions (pre-purchase upon request)
- Licensed tour guide – €250 (upon request and depending on availability)
- Airport pick-up and drop-off upon request (Additional cost)
- Lunch
- Gratuities
- 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 most of your questions about the places you visit with this tour.
- Our company complies with all the health instructions of the World Health Organization about COVID-19
- Third party activities and especially extreme sports are not allowed during the tour. This could be a cause for immediate cancellation of the tour.
- This is a private tour. Only your group will participate. The pick-up time is adjustable upon your request. Your personal driver will pick you up and return you to the same place or to the point you prefer.
- In the case of a hotel pick-up, he will be waiting for you in the hotel lobby.
- In the case of an apartment pick-up, he will be waiting for you at the entrance of the building.
- For airport pick up, he will be waiting for you at the arrival hall holding a sign with your name on it so you can spot him upon arrival. We will track your flight and our driver will be there on time.
- For port pick up, he will be waiting for you at the gate, just as you disembark, holding a sign with your name on it so you can spot him upon arrival.
- Comfortable clothing
- Athletic/ walking shoes are recommended
- Hats, sunglasses, and suntan lotion are highly recommended
- You can cancel up to 24 hours in advance of the experience for a full refund.
- If you cancel less than 24 hours before the experience’s start time, the amount you paid will not be refunded.
- Any changes made less than 24 hours before the experience’s start time will not be accepted.
Tour itinerary
5 hours private tour | 6 places
PICK UP
Start our tour from Athens
We start our tour from Athens. Our driver will pick you up from your hotel/ apartment or the airport/ port.
15 MINUTES – ADMISSION TICKET NOT INCLUDED
Corinth Canal
The Corinth Canal serves as a vital maritime link, connecting the Gulf of Corinth in the Ionian Sea to the Saronic Gulf in the Aegean Sea. Carved through the narrow Isthmus of Corinth, this engineering marvel effectively separates the Peloponnese from the Greek mainland, transforming the peninsula into what feels like an island unto itself. Spanning a length of 6.4 kilometers (4 miles) and a width of a mere 21.4 meters (70 feet) at its base, the canal’s imposing limestone walls stand as a testament to human ingenuity and perseverance.
From vantage points high above, visitors are treated to panoramic vistas of the isthmus of Corinth, where steep cliffs of limestone frame the canal’s passage. It’s a mesmerizing sight to behold, especially as vessels of all sizes navigate their way through the narrow waterway below. As you gaze upon this marvel of modern engineering, you can’t help but marvel at the convergence of nature and human innovation that has shaped this historic waterway.
1 HOUR – ADMISSION TICKET NOT INCLUDED
Ancient Corinth
Upon arriving at Ancient Corinth following a scenic 1-hour journey, you step into a realm steeped in history and myth. Situated on the Isthmus of Corinth, this ancient city-state occupies a strategic position, bridging the Peloponnese to the mainland of Greece, halfway between Athens and Sparta. While the modern city of Corinth lies approximately 5 kilometers (3.1 miles) northeast of the ancient ruins, the legacy of its storied past endures.
For Christians, Corinth holds particular significance, immortalized in the New Testament through the letters of Saint Paul. His epistles to the Corinthians offer insights into the early Christian community and its challenges. Additionally, Corinth features prominently in the Acts of the Apostles, chronicling Paul the Apostle’s missionary journeys across the region. Pausanias, the renowned ancient Greek traveler, dedicates an entire book of his Description of Greece to Corinth, further attesting to its cultural and historical prominence.
In its heyday, Ancient Corinth stood as one of Greece’s largest and most influential cities, boasting a thriving population of 90,000 inhabitants in 400 BC. However, its fortunes took a dramatic turn with the Roman conquest, leading to the city’s destruction in 146 BC. Undeterred, the Romans rebuilt Corinth from the ashes in 44 BC, elevating it to the status of provincial capital of Greece. Today, as you walk in the footsteps of ancient civilizations, you can’t help but marvel at the resilience and enduring legacy of this storied city.
30 MINUTES – ADMISSION TICKET FREE
Archaeological Museum of Ancient Corinth
The Archaeological Museum of Ancient Corinth stands as a testament to the rich tapestry of history that unfolds within its walls. Erected between 1931-1932, this esteemed institution was conceived to showcase the myriad archaeological discoveries unearthed from recent excavations. Nestled within the sprawling archaeological site of Ancient Corinth, Greece, the museum falls under the jurisdiction of the 37th Ephoreia of the Greek Archaeological Service.
Within the museum’s hallowed halls, visitors are transported through time, delving into the ancient past of this storied city. Among the key highlights of the Archaeological site of Ancient Corinth are Hadgimoustafa spring, Lechaion Road, the imposing Basilica, and the legendary Fountain of Peirene. As visitors meander through the museum’s galleries, they encounter remnants of the city’s vibrant past, from the grandeur of the Stoa to the bustling Agora and the majestic Odien.
Beyond these iconic landmarks, the archaeological site also boasts a wealth of temples and monuments that offer glimpses into Corinth’s religious and cultural life. From the sacred precincts of ancient temples to the grandeur of the Theatre, each site reveals layers of history waiting to be uncovered. As you immerse yourself in the treasures of Ancient Corinth, you embark on a captivating journey through the annals of time, where every artifact and ruin tells a story of a bygone era.
PASS BY
Temple of Apollo
The Temple of Apollo at Corinth stands as a testament to ancient craftsmanship and architectural splendor, its origins tracing back to the year 550 BC. As one of the iconic structures gracing the landscape of Corinth, this temple served as a beacon of reverence and devotion to the god Apollo, patron of music, prophecy, and enlightenment.
Constructed with meticulous care and attention to detail, the Temple of Apollo embodied the ideals of classical Greek architecture, characterized by its graceful columns, imposing façade, and sacred aura. Over the centuries, it witnessed the ebb and flow of history, bearing witness to the triumphs and tribulations of the city and its inhabitants.
Though time has weathered its once-majestic form, the Temple of Apollo continues to command awe and admiration, its enduring legacy a testament to the enduring spirit of human ingenuity and creativity. As visitors gaze upon its weathered stones and crumbling columns, they are transported back in time, to an era of gods and mortals, where faith and devotion shaped the destiny of civilizations.
PASS BY
Mycenae
Nestled within the rugged landscapes of Greece, the fortified citadel of ancient Mycenae stands as a testament to the glory and grandeur of a bygone era. Here, amidst the whispers of myth and legend, the mighty King Agamemnon once ruled, his name echoing through the annals of history. As you venture through this awe-inspiring site, you’ll be transported back in time to an age of heroes and conquests.
Behold the imposing Tomb of Clytemnestra, a solemn reminder of the city’s illustrious past, and marvel at the iconic Lion’s Gate, its weathered stones bearing silent witness to the passage of millennia. Trace the ancient footsteps of warriors and kings as you explore the Cyclopean walls, marvels of engineering that have stood the test of time.
In the second millennium BC, Mycenae reigned as one of the preeminent centers of Greek civilization, its influence extending far beyond its fortified walls. From its commanding position atop the Peloponnese, Mycenae held sway over vast swathes of southern Greece, Crete, the Cyclades, and even parts of southwest Anatolia. The Mycenaean period, spanning from around 1600 BC to 1100 BC, is synonymous with the height of Mycenaean power and prosperity.
At its zenith, the citadel and its sprawling lower town teemed with life, boasting a population of 30,000 souls and sprawling across an impressive 32 hectares of land. Today, as you wander amidst the ruins of this ancient stronghold, you’ll be captivated by the echoes of a distant past, where myth and history intertwine to weave a tapestry of unparalleled richness and complexity.
30 MINUTES – ADMISSION TICKET NOT INCLUDEd
Archaeological site of Mycenae
Nestled amidst the rugged landscapes of the Peloponnese, the archaeological site of Mycenae stands as a testament to the ingenuity and grandeur of ancient Greek civilization. Comprising the fortified acropolis and its surrounding funerary and habitation sites, this historic enclave bears witness to a bygone era of glory and conquest.
The crowning jewel of Mycenae is its formidable acropolis, its towering Cyclopean walls a testament to the skill and craftsmanship of its ancient builders. Surrounding the acropolis like a protective embrace, these monumental walls stand as silent sentinels, guarding the heart of the city from would-be invaders. Accessible from the northwest, the famed Lion Gate serves as a potent symbol of Mycenaean power and authority. Named for the imposing lions carved in relief above its threshold, this iconic entrance has long been synonymous with the might and majesty of Mycenaean rulers.
As you traverse the storied grounds of Mycenae, you’ll be transported back in time to an age of heroes and legends, where the echoes of ancient footsteps still linger amidst the ruins. From the imposing acropolis to the labyrinthine streets below, every stone bears witness to the storied history of this ancient citadel, inviting modern-day travelers to embark on a journey of discovery through the annals of time.
PASS BY
Lion Gate
Standing proudly as the iconic threshold to the Bronze Age citadel of Mycenae in southern Greece, the Lion Gate is a testament to the grandeur and artistic prowess of its ancient builders. Crafted during the 13th century BC, around 1250 BC, this monumental entrance graces the northwest side of the acropolis, its imposing presence commanding attention and awe.
Named for the striking relief sculpture of two lionesses or lions in a heraldic pose that adorns its lintel, the Lion Gate is a masterpiece of Mycenaean sculpture and the largest surviving sculpture of its kind in the prehistoric Aegean. Unlike many other monuments of its time, the Lion Gate has endured the passage of millennia with its iconographic motif intact, its significance preserved through the annals of history.
As the sole surviving monumental piece of Mycenaean sculpture, the Lion Gate holds a special place in the archaeological landscape of Greece, offering a tangible link to the rich cultural heritage of the ancient world. Its enduring legacy continues to captivate and inspire visitors, inviting them to unravel the mysteries of Mycenae’s past and discover the wonders of a bygone era.
30 MINUTES – ADMISSION TICKET NOT INCLUDED
Archaeological Museum of Mycenae
Located at the threshold of the ancient site, just a stone’s throw from the majestic Lion Gate, the Archaeological Museum of Mycenae beckons visitors to delve deeper into the mysteries of this legendary civilization. Here, amidst the rugged beauty of the Peloponnese, artifacts and treasures from the Mycenaean era are meticulously preserved and displayed, offering a window into the rich tapestry of Mycenaean culture.
Step inside this hallowed hall of history and embark on a journey through time, where relics of a bygone era come to life before your eyes. From intricately crafted pottery and tools to exquisite jewelry and ceremonial objects, each artifact tells a story of ancient splendor and artistic ingenuity. As you wander through the museum’s galleries, you’ll bear witness to the remarkable achievements of the Mycenaean civilization, marveling at the craftsmanship and sophistication of a culture that thrived millennia ago.
Whether you’re a seasoned history buff or a curious traveler eager to uncover the secrets of the past, the Archaeological Museum of Mycenae offers a captivating glimpse into one of antiquity’s most enigmatic civilizations. Soak in the atmosphere of this archaeological treasure trove, and let the echoes of Mycenaean glory transport you to a world of myth and legend.
15 MINUTES – ADMISSION TICKET NOT INCLUDED
Treasury of Atreus
Perched atop Panagitsa Hill in Mycenae, the Treasury of Atreus, also known as the Tomb of Agamemnon, stands as a testament to the grandeur and mystery of the Bronze Age. This awe-inspiring tholos, or beehive tomb, was erected around 1250 BC, shrouded in the mists of antiquity and steeped in legend. As you approach the imposing structure, you’ll be struck by the sheer scale of its stone lintel, a colossal slab weighing a staggering 120 tons and measuring 8.3 x 5.2 x 1.2 meters—truly a marvel of ancient engineering.
Though its origins are veiled in uncertainty, the Treasury of Atreus has long captured the imagination of scholars and adventurers alike. Mentioned by the Roman geographer Pausanias in the 2nd century AD, the tomb has endured the passage of time, its enigmatic presence enduring through the ages. In 1879, the intrepid German archaeologist Heinrich Schliemann made a remarkable discovery beneath the “agora” in the Acropolis at Mycenae, uncovering the haunting shaft graves that lay hidden beneath the earth.
As you stand before the imposing facade of the Treasury of Atreus, you’ll find yourself transported back to a bygone era, where kings and heroes walked the earth and legends were born. Explore the depths of this ancient sepulcher, where echoes of the past whisper tales of glory and intrigue. For here, amidst the ruins of Mycenae, the legacy of Agamemnon and his fabled dynasty lives on, waiting to be discovered by those who dare to tread in the footsteps of history.
Available Pickups
NOTE: Pick-up starts 10 minute(s) before departure.
We offer pick-up to the following places for this experience:
Tour info
Experience type – Half-Day tour/ activity
Difficulty – Easy
Booking in advance – Cut off: 1 day
Live tour guide – English
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