The ancient ruins of Corinth stand as one of the most captivating and accessible day trips from Athens, offering a rich historical experience that many travelers overlook. Unlike the bustling Acropolis, which is often filled with tourists, Corinth allows for a more serene exploration of classical Greek heritage.
As an important city in ancient Greece, Corinth is steeped in history—especially for Christians, as it’s where the Apostle Paul preached and penned his famous letters, First and Second Corinthians. This guide will detail how to reach Ancient Corinth and what to expect during your visit.
Where Is Corinth?
Corinth is situated at the gateway to the Peloponnese peninsula, approximately 80 kilometers west of Athens. The archaeological site of Ancient Corinth is located roughly 8 kilometers southwest of modern-day Corinth town.
How To Get To Ancient Corinth
Getting to Ancient Corinth is straightforward, and you have several options to choose from:
By Tour
The most convenient way to visit Corinth is by joining a guided tour. GetYourGuide offers half-day excursions or full-day tours that include the charming city of Nafplio. Having personally used GetYourGuide for various tours globally, I can confidently endorse their services.
Book Now: Corinth Half Day Tour / Full Day Tour
By Car
If you prefer flexibility, renting a car is an excellent option. The highway to Corinth is well-maintained, and the drive from Athens takes about an hour. Various rental companies operate in Greece, but I recommend DiscoverCars, with whom we had a great experience during our trip to Santorini.
By Train
You can also take a train directly from Athens to Corinth, departing every two hours from Larissa station. The journey is comfortable and takes approximately one hour. Upon arrival at Corinth station, taxis are readily available to take you to the ruins, which are about a 10-minute ride away.
By Bus
The KTEL bus company operates hourly services from Athens to Corinth, departing from Kifisou station. The journey takes around one hour and arrives at the Isthmus bus station. From there, a short taxi ride will get you to Ancient Corinth; it’s just a 15-minute drive.
What To See At Ancient Corinth
Temple Of Apollo
The highlight of Corinth is undoubtedly the Temple of Apollo, known for its striking Greek columns. Constructed around 560 BC, it remains captivating despite the deteriorated state of many columns. The backdrop of Acrocorinth adds to its charm, offering a peaceful experience in contrast to Athens’ tourist-heavy sites.
Fountain of Peirene
Dating back to 500 BC, the Fountain of Peirene was once the city’s main water source. Although it has lost some of its original luster, it’s easy to envision its past beauty when it flowed with fresh spring water.
The Judgement Seat
This site holds significant Biblical relevance, as it’s where the Apostle Paul was brought before the judgement seat. There is informative signage available that details the story, making it a noteworthy stop for visitors interested in history.
Archaeological Museum of Ancient Corinth
Located right by the ruins, the museum displays an assortment of statues, mosaics, and pottery from the region. While not large, it is filled with valuable artifacts, with clear English signage that enhances your visit.
Opening Hours & Fees
- Summer hours (Apr 1 – Oct 31): 8 AM – 7 PM (extended to 8 PM from May 1, 2024)
- Winter hours (Nov 1 – Mar 31): 8:30 AM – 3:30 PM (closed Tuesdays)
- Summer entrance fee: 8€ for the full site or 4€ for the museum only
- Winter entrance fee: 4€ for both the site and museum
For the most current information, it’s advisable to check the official website before your visit.
How Long To Stay
To fully appreciate the ruins and museum, a couple of hours is usually sufficient. However, consider dedicating at least half a day to travel and exploration. If you wish to include nearby attractions like Acrocorinth or the canal, you may want to extend your visit to a full day.
Other Things To Do In Corinth
If time allows, don’t miss these other attractions in and around Corinth:
- Acrocorinth: A fortress with stunning views, just a short drive from Ancient Corinth. Plan for 1-2 hours of exploration.
- Paralia Kalamia: The main beach, known for its pebbled shore and sun loungers, about a 30-minute walk from the train station.
- Corinth Canal: A man-made canal dug in the 19th century, located about 8 kilometers east of Corinth, perfect for a quick visit.
- Cenchreae Port: The historical port mentioned in the Bible where Paul fulfilled a vow; it’s tranquil despite limited ruins.
- Moni Agias Triadas: A picturesque monastery located 8 kilometers south of Corinth.
- Paralia Loutra Oreas Elenis: A beautiful beach offering fresh seafood dining, located 15 kilometers southeast of Corinth.
More Travel Guides For Greece
Thank you for exploring this guide on visiting Ancient Corinth as a day trip from Athens. Don’t miss my other travel guides showcasing Greece’s beautiful islands, such as Santorini, Zakynthos, and Kefalonia!
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