Explore the Argolis Peninsula on this incredible full-day trip from Athens. Start with a tour of Mycenae, the ruins of the home of the mythical King Agamemnon. Continue with lunch and a stroll in Nafplio, the oldest city and first capital of Greece—today, a lovely seaside village. The final stop before returning to Athens will be a tour of Epidaurus, an ancient archaeological site, and the sanctuary of Asklepios, the God of Medicine.

Starting from your hotel or accommodation, we will travel by private van to the Argolis Peninsula – about 90 minutes – to explore this area of the Peloponnese region, uniquely rich in Greek history. In the company of an expert in archaeology or history, we will start the full-day tour with a quick stop to see the Corinth Canal, whose construction is attributed to Emperor Nero in 67AD.  

As we continue the day together, our next stop is the extensive archaeological site at Mycenae. Your Context guide will take you back in time to ancient Mycenaean civilization, explaining their way of life through the archaeological evidence left behind. Legends of King Agamemnon abound, and we will visit the tomb of Atreus, his father. We will explore the Mycenaeans' relationship to their fertile surroundings and discuss how they protected themselves from their enemies with mighty walls, taking in the expansive and impressive views from the city. The terrain here can be uneven, but the views from the Lion’s Gate and the citadel are worth the hike.  

Just in time for lunch, we will arrive at Nafplio. A picturesque seaside town today, this is the oldest city in Greece and was its first capital. After a traditional lunch (not included in the tour price) we’ll have a stroll in the picturesque streets of the old town and admire its classic stone buildings. As we leave the town center, we will pass by the Palamidi Castle to discuss the Venetian occupation of the area in 1686, imagining the battles fought by the Venetians, the Turks, and finally Greek liberation in 1822.   

The afternoon is dedicated to an extensive visit to the archaeological site at Epidaurus, including the Sanctuary of Asclepius, the most important healing center of the ancient world. Epidaurus was well known for its important civic architecture as well including the impressive theater, with seating space for 14,000 and views of the lush countryside beyond. We will marvel at its construction and take in the sweeping views of the countryside beyond.

Our day tour from Athens exploring the Argolis Peninsula ends with our drive back to your accommodation. Along the drive, there will be time to continue the conversation and make connections between what we have visited in the Peloponnese and what you have seen in Athens.