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Get ready to pack your bags and embark on an unforgettable journey as we explore the top things to do in Corinth, Greece – a city rich in history, breathtaking landscapes, and Biblical significance.
Hello, fellow globetrotters!
I’m thrilled to share my experiences of Corinth, a gem in the heartland of Greece.
I’ve been a semi-budget traveler for years now, diving into local cultures, cuisines, and landscapes while keeping an eye on the wallet.
I’ve learned the art of travel planning, discovering the balance between splurging on unforgettable experiences and finding savings without skimping on the fun.
Now, I’m excited to pass on my hard-earned knowledge to you.
So, tighten your seatbelts as we journey through Corinth, where we’ll uncover the best this historic city has to offer, without breaking the bank!
SBT Highlights
- Corinth offers a captivating experience with its rich history, archaeological sites, and beautiful natural landscapes.
- Visitors can appreciate the vibrant Greek culture and lifestyle through various recreational activities and attractions.
- Exploring the ancient ruins, mythology, Biblical history, and scenic beauty of Corinth allows for a well-rounded and unique travel experience.
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- Things to Do in Corinth Greece: Ancient Ruins and Archaeological Sites
- Natural Landmarks and Scenic Beauty
- Recreational Activities in Corinth
- History of Corinth
- Explore Beyond Corinth
- Mythology in Corinth
- What to Avoid in Corinth Greece!
- Frequently Asked Questions
- SBT Summary: Things to Do in Corinth Greece
Things to Do in Corinth Greece: Ancient Ruins and Archaeological Sites
Corinth, Greece, is a popular destination that offers a perfect blend of history, culture, and natural beauty.
Located on the Isthmus of Corinth and connecting the Peloponnese Peninsula with mainland Greece, this ancient city is rich in archaeological sites, natural landmarks, and vibrant Greek traditions.
Whether you’re an avid Greek history enthusiast or simply looking for a scenic and culturally immersive experience, the modern town of Corinth has a multitude of attractions and activities to suit your interests.
The history of Corinth dates back to the 8th century BC, making it a treasure trove for those seeking to explore ancient ruins and archaeological sites.
From the iconic Corinth Canal to the Temple of Apollo and other monuments, the city is a living testament to the ingenuity of ancient civilizations.
Additionally, Corinth’s natural beauty will astonish you, as the city is surrounded by picturesque beaches, mountains, and a spectacular coastline.
Engaging in recreational activities will give you a taste of the Greek culture and lifestyle as you explore beyond the typical tourist spots.
1) Temple of Apollo
The Temple of Apollo is a must-see attraction in Corinth.
This ancient ruin dates back to the 6th century BC and is one of the oldest Doric temples in Greece.
Explore the impressive columns that have withstood the test of time, and admire the craftsmanship of the ancient architects.
2) Ancient Corinth Archaeological Site
At the Ancient Corinth Archaeological Site, you can immerse yourself in the rich history of the city, which spans from prehistory through the Mycenaean and Classical periods.
Key attractions in the site include:
- The Forum: Once the heart of ancient Corinth, this large, rectangular plaza is surrounded by the ruins of significant buildings.
- Mosaic floors: Take a closer look at the intricate mosaics that once adorned the floors of the city’s grand buildings.
- Archaeological Museum of Ancient Corinth: Discover well-preserved artifacts, including marble statues and intricate pottery, that showcase the city’s vibrant past.
3) Environment Museum of Stymphalia
Located near the ancient city of Stymphalos, the Environment Museum of Stymphalia offers an opportunity to explore the legends and myths related to the region.
Learn about the famous Stymphalian Birds, which according to Greek mythology, were defeated by Hercules.
The nearby archaeological site also reveals insights into the daily life and routine of the ancient inhabitants.
4) Other Significant Historic Sites
Apart from the well-known sites mentioned above, there are other significant historic attractions in Corinth worth visiting:
- Basilicas: Corinth is home to several ancient basilicas, showcasing the early architectural influence of the Roman Empire.
- Ancient Gymnasium and Asklepieion: Explore these fascinating remnants of the recreational practices of the ancient civilization.
As you explore these archaeological sites and ruins of ancient Corinth, you will gain a deeper understanding of the city’s rich and diverse history.
Natural Landmarks and Scenic Beauty
5) Corinth Canal & Isthmus of Corinth
The Corinth Canal is a remarkable engineering feat that connects the Ionian Sea and the Aegean Sea.
When you visit this natural landmark, you can marvel at the stunning views of the steep cliffs on either side.
The Isthmus of Corinth, the narrow land bridge connecting the Peloponnese to the rest of Greece, offers a unique blend of natural beauty and historical significance.
6) Acrocorinth
Acrocorinth is an impressive ancient fortress situated on a rocky hilltop above the city.
As you climb the hill of Acrocorinth, you’ll be rewarded with breathtaking panoramic views of Corinth, the surrounding mountains, and the sea.
This site is perfect for history enthusiasts and nature lovers alike.
Perched atop Acrocorinth’s majestic summit once stood the famous Temple of Aphrodite, a sanctuary that was not only a symbol of love and beauty but also a testament to the city’s ancient (pagan) spiritual life.
7) Gulf of Corinth
The Gulf of Corinth is a large body of water that separates the Peloponnese peninsula from mainland Greece.
This stunning coastline offers picturesque views, and the nearby town of Loutraki is a popular seaside resort destination in the summer months, with its beach, Loutraki spa and hot springs, and vibrant nightlife.
You know how much we love natural thermal springs!
8) Lake Stymphalia
Lake Stymphalia is a beautiful, unspoiled lake in the region that you can explore by taking nature walks, hiking, or cycling along its shores.
Its wetlands and diverse ecosystem make it a haven for birdwatchers, while the nearby Archaeological Museum of Stymphalia provides a historical perspective of the area.
9) Saronic Gulf
The Saronic Gulf, located on the eastern coast of Corinth, offers an array of stunning islands, coastal towns, and charming fishing villages for you to discover.
You can indulge in various water activities, sample delicious local cuisine, and soak in the picturesque scenery while taking boat trips or relaxing at a beach.
Recreational Activities in Corinth
While visiting Corinth, Greece, you will find an abundance of recreational activities to enhance your trip.
From historical tours to adventurous outdoor activities, this modern city has something for everyone.
Guided Tours
Your journey can begin with a guided tour of Corinth’s ancient site.
You can even find a local guide for a private tour.
This can include the famous Temple of Apollo, which holds great historical significance as one of the most important sanctuaries in ancient Greece.
Outdoor enthusiasts should definitely explore the variety of outdoor activities offered in the area.
One popular option is walking and biking tours that allow you to discover the beautiful natural surrounding at your own pace.
Here are some great options:
- Ancient Corinth Guided Tour from Athens
- Ancient Corinth & Thermal Spa Tour
- From Athens: Road Trip to Ancient Corinth & St.Paul’s Steps
Adventure Seekers
For thrill-seekers, don’t miss out on the chance to bungee jump off the historic Corinth Canal.
This adrenaline-pumping activity offers breathtaking views of the surrounding landscape and is an unforgettable experience.
Water Activities
Water lovers will also enjoy numerous water tours and adventures that take advantage of the city’s coastal location.
Discover the majestic Corinth Canal, which connects the Corinthian Gulf and Saronic Gulf, on cruise ships or even by swimming across it.
More Archaeological Finds
Lastly, enrich your cultural understanding by visiting the important archaeological site of Heraion, a sanctuary dedicated to the goddess Hera.
This site boasts ancient ruins and stunning views of the nearby coastline, offering you a unique glimpse into Corinth’s storied past.
Enjoy your time in Corinth with these diverse recreational activities that cater to a range of interests and preferences, allowing you to create a memorable and fulfilling experience.
History of Corinth
The history of Corinth dates back thousands of years, giving you a chance to explore and learn about its rich past.
As one of the most important and influential cities of ancient Greece, Corinth played a pivotal role in history and offers a wealth of information for those interested in delving deeper.
Biblical Significance
The ancient city of Corinth holds significant importance in Christianity, particularly due to its connection with the apostle Paul (aka Saint Paul).
Outside of Israel, Corinth is a great place to uncover the roots of Christianity.
As you explore the city and religious site, you’ll find that St. Paul visited Corinth during his missionary journeys and wrote two letters to the Corinthians addressing various issues that arose within the early Christian community.
These letters are now part of the New Testament in the Bible.
Corinth is also mentioned in the Book of Acts, which describes St. Paul’s time in the city, his interactions with local residents, and the work he did in spreading Christianity.
By visiting Ancient Corinth, you’ll have the opportunity to walk in St. Paul’s footsteps and learn about the earliest days of Christianity.
Secular History
While immersing yourself in the history of Corinth, you’ll discover that the city’s significance goes beyond Christianity.
Corinth saw periods of great wealth and power (one of the wealthiest city-states for a time), as well as decline and destruction.
Neolithic Period finds provide evidence that Corinth was inhabited by prehistoric human populations and offers invaluable insights into their ways of life.
Throughout its long and varied history, Corinth has seen various ruling powers, such as the Romans and the Ottoman Turks.
Each of these periods has left its mark on the city, contributing to its rich cultural tapestry.
As you explore the ancient city of Corinth, you’ll have the opportunity to uncover all of these layers, bringing the past to life in a truly exciting way.
In contrast to the ancient city, modern Corinth town offers a glimpse into contemporary Greek life.
As you wander through the streets, you can experience the vibrant local atmosphere and observe how ancient history melds seamlessly with the present.
Explore Beyond Corinth
When visiting Corinth, Greece, take advantage of the opportunity to explore the surrounding areas and immerse yourself in the history and natural beauty that the region has to offer.
Day Trip to Athens
Athens, the capital of Greece, is within reach for an exciting day trip from Corinth.
As the birthplace of democracy and a significant city in ancient history, Athens offers numerous historical sites and attractions to visit.
Make sure to explore the iconic Acropolis, the temple of Hephaestus, or the ancient Agora.
Additionally, consider visiting the world-renowned New Acropolis Museum for an enlightening experience.
Lake Vouliagmeni
Situated south of Athens, Lake Vouliagmeni is a hidden gem with its calm, turquoise waters surrounded by lush vegetation.
This serene lake is an ideal spot for swimming, sunbathing, and birdwatching, as it boasts a rich eco-system.
Visit Peloponnese Peninsula
The Peloponnese Peninsula is a treasure trove of ancient sites, picturesque towns, and beautiful landscapes.
Delve into history at the ancient city of Epidaurus, famous for its well-preserved theater.
Visit Nafplio, a charming coastal town with captivating narrow streets and Venetian architecture.
Explore the legendary city of Mycenae, associated with the mythical hero Heracles (aka Hercules).
Don’t miss the chance to visit the Temple of Isthmia (or Temple of Poseidon), a prominent ancient sanctuary dedicated to Poseidon, where you can immerse yourself in the architectural grandeur of ancient Greece and uncover intriguing stories about the Isthmian Games that once echoed through its stone pillars.
Here are some tour options further afoot:
- Athens: Full-Day Trip to Nafplio and Epidaurus
- Mycenae Epidaurus and Nafplio Small Group Tour from Athens
Travel to Greek Islands
Embarking on a journey to the Greek Islands is a must while visiting Greece.
From the Saronic Gulf to the Aegean Sea, each island boasts unique charm and breathtaking views.
Explore the cosmopolitan island of Mykonos, famous for its vibrant nightlife and white-washed towns.
Discover the lush island of Corfu, renowned for its scenic beauty and vibrant culture.
Venture to Naxos, the largest of the Cyclades islands, offering picturesque villages and pristine beaches.
Don’t forget to visit the beautiful island of Crete, home to the ancient city of Knossos and natural landscapes that span from sandy beaches to rugged mountains.
Mythology in Corinth
In the ancient city of Corinth, mythology played a significant role in shaping its culture and heritage.
As you explore the ruins, you’ll encounter many references to Greek gods and mythical creatures, showing the city’s connection to these ancient beliefs.
The Temple of Apollo is a prime example of Corinth’s devotion to the Greek gods.
Apollo, the god of music, healing, and prophecy (among other things), was highly revered in the city.
At this temple, ancient Corinthians would come to pay their respects and seek guidance from the oracle associated with the deity.
Another notable figure in Corinthian mythology is Pegasus, the divine winged horse that was said to have been tamed by the hero Bellerophon.
As you wander through the modern village of Corinth, you may come across the Pegasus statue, which serves as a reminder of this mythical creature’s significance in the region.
As you explore Corinth, take time to appreciate the numerous ancient sites and art that represent its rich mythological background.
Although these myths may seem rooted in fantasy, they played a crucial role in shaping the culture and traditions of the Corinthians during ancient times.
What to Avoid in Corinth Greece!
One word: strikes!
It’s story time now, and the title of this story is “Crossing the Corinth Canal in a Rowboat.”
You know…that time I crossed the Corinth Canal in a rowboat, with armed protesters looking on. What’s your most daring travel experience?
As I mentioned in this post, in 1988, I went on my first international trip ever (again…not counting Tijuana, Mexico!).
We explored the homeland of my mother’s side of the family…Greece!
(Rick Astley songs were in heavy rotation on the airline’s playlist, and Guess jeans, Esprit bags, Swatch watches, and Keds were all the rage.)
Our extended family of 13 people spent a couple weeks going on a cruise of the Greek islands, visiting Athens, and traveling around the southern part of Greece (the Peloponnese) on a mini-bus.
The last major stop on our tour was the ancient city of Corinth.
In the morning hours, we explored the ruins and learned about its Biblical significance.
We were on track to be back in Athens around lunch time & have one more sleep before some of us were flying back to the States the next day.
When our bus approached the Corinth Canal, however, traffic inexplicably came to a stand still.
Side Bar: Wikipedia says that “The Corinth Canal is a canal that connects the Gulf of Corinth with the Saronic Gulf in the Aegean Sea. It cuts through the narrow Isthmus of Corinth and separates the Peloponnese from the Greek mainland, thus effectively making the former peninsula an island.”
What This Means: The normal way to get from Corinth to Athens is by crossing a bridge in a vehicle, crossing a bridge on foot, or crossing a bridge on a train. Common Denominator = Bridge.
On this day, we found out that the local farmers were on strike, because they were not satisfied with the price of apricots set by the government.
And so…in protest, they blocked all of the bridges that cross the Corinth Canal.
After waiting out the strike in the hot sun on a grid-locked road most of the day, we decided to try something else.
At dusk, we found a way to get closer to the canal…near one of the submersible bridges, which was, of course, underwater at the hands of the farmers.
Here’s what the bridge looks like when it’s not underwater:
And within plain view of firearm-wielding men, we hired a rowboat to row all 13 of us (and all our luggage…um, do AirTags work internationally?!?!?) across the canal to a private bus waiting for us on the other side to take us back to Athens.
It took 4 trips to get everyone and everything across, and it was a short night of sleep, but we lived to tell about it! It was definitely a unique experience!
Here are some pictures to prove it. (Note: The pictures are from a 1988 VHS video camera, which was transferred to DVD, and then screen shot with an iPhone, so yeah, they’re a little grainy.)
Frequently Asked Questions
Is Corinth Greece worth seeing?
Yes, Corinth is definitely worth seeing. With its rich history, stunning archaeological sites, and beautiful scenery, there is a wide range of attractions to explore during your visit.
What is Corinth famous for?
Corinth is famous for the Corinth Canal, which connects the Ionian and Aegean Seas.
The city is also known for its ancient ruins, including the Temple of Apollo, which was one of the most important sanctuaries in ancient Greece.
Ancient Corinth also has great Biblical significance, as it is mentioned numerous times in the New Testament.
What are the must-see historical sites in Corinth?
Some of the must-see historical sites in Corinth include the Temple of Apollo and the archaeological site of Ancient Corinth, where you can explore numerous ruins showcasing different periods of the city’s history.
Which beaches should I visit in Corinth?
Corinth is home to several beautiful beaches, such as Loutraki and Vrachati. These beaches offer crystal-clear waters, golden sands, and ample opportunity for relaxation and water sports.
How do I travel from Athens to Corinth?
The easiest way to travel from Athens to Corinth is by car or bus. It takes just over an hour to drive via the Attiki Odos highway and the bus journey is a similar duration. Road trips!
What are the top attractions in nearby Mycenae?
Mycenae, a UNESCO World Heritage Site, is known for its ancient ruins, including the famous Lion’s Gate. A visit to this historic site provides a fascinating insight into the Mycenaean civilization.
What activities can I enjoy in Nafplio?
In Nafplio, you can explore the picturesque old town, walk along the waterfront, visit the historic Palamidi Fortress, or take a boat trip to the nearby Bourtzi Castle. The city also offers scenic beaches, charming cafes, and quaint shops.
What are the highlights of a visit to Delphi?
Delphi, another UNESCO World Heritage Site, is known for its ancient ruins, including another Temple of Apollo, the ancient Theatre of Delphi, and the tholos at the sanctuary of Athena. The stunning mountainous scenery surrounding the site only adds to its charm and intrigue.
SBT Summary: Things to Do in Corinth Greece
While visiting Corinth, Greece, you’ll find a variety of attractions that cater to different interests.
One of the most popular sites to explore is the Ancient Corinth, which houses the impressive Doric Temple of Apollo.
Another must-see attraction is the Corinth Canal.
This engineering marvel connects the Gulf of Corinth with the Saronic Gulf and is a prime spot for taking stunning photographs.
If you’re feeling adventurous, you can even try the Zulu Bungy Jump offered near the man-made canal.
When it comes to cultural experiences, consider embarking on one of the many half-day excursions from Athens.
These tours often include historical and cultural sites, allowing you to get a deeper understanding of the rich history of Corinth.
In summary, Corinth offers a diverse range of activities for travelers, from ancient ruins and natural wonders to thrilling adventures and cultural tours.
As you plan your visit, be sure to include these top attractions in your itinerary for an unforgettable experience in this beautiful city.
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