Athens to Mycenae, Epidaurus & Nafplio Day Trip
About this activity
Highlights
- Explore ancient Mycenae's Lion Gate
- Discover Epidaurus' ancient theater
- Stroll through Nafplio's charming streets
- Visit the archaeological museum in Nafplio
- Enjoy scenic views of the Peloponnese peninsula
Full description
Included / Excluded
- Round-trip transportation from Athens
- Guided tours of Mycenae, Epidaurus, and Nafplio
- Free time in Nafplio
- Meals and beverages
Itinerary
Depart from our terminal for one day tour via the coastal National highway for the Corinth canal (short stop).
After the Corinth Canal, you enter the region of Argolis, land of Homer’s Golden Mycenae, a UNESCO World Heritage site. Dating back to the second century B.C., Mycenae was one of the major centers of Greek civilization and a military stronghold which dominated much of southern Greece . Visit the archaeological site, home to the kingdom of mythical Agamemnon. You will see the Cyclopean Walls, the Lion’s Gate, the Royal Tombs, including Agamemnon Clytemnestra's, and the Treasury of Atreus, a magnificent 14th-century B.C. structure. In Mycenae you will have the chance for an optional stop in a pottery factory.
Then, proceed to Nafplio the first capital of modern Greece, a town steeped in history and charm. Enjoy a guided walking tour through the old town and then have free time to stroll through the town at your own pace, exploring its picturesque streets, elegant neoclassical buildings, and vibrant squares. Take in the views of Bourtzi, the iconic fortified islet in the port, before having lunch at a traditional restaurant.
Continue to Epidaurus and visit the ancient theatre. The UNESCO’S world heritage listed monument is reputed to be the birthplace of Apollo's son Asklepios, the healer and was the most celebrated healing center of the classical world. Epidaurus is probably most famous for its theatre, one of the best preserved classical Greek buildings and still used today due to its amazing acoustics. Alternatively, you can take a peaceful stroll through the small forest next to the theater or unwind with a coffee or tea, enjoying the sounds of nature. The day tour returns to Athens in the late afternoon.
Meeting point
Start Location
Athanasiou Diakou 26, Athens, Greece
Important information
Know before you book
- The tour operates in English; ensure you understand the language.
- Confirm your booking at least 24 hours in advance to secure your spot.
- Be prepared for a full day of walking and exploration.
Know before you go
- Wear comfortable walking shoes suitable for uneven terrain.
- Bring a hat and sunscreen to protect against the sun.
- Carry a bottle of water to stay hydrated throughout the day.
Cancellation policy
For a full refund, cancel at least 24 hours before the scheduled departure time.
Accessibility
- Stroller Accessible
- Infants Required On Laps
Traveler reviews
History made alive
Great tour, very well organized and Keytours team was spot on with directions. Dimitri our guide was very informative and provided excellent history and context of the sites.
Best way to see three sites in one day
This is the best way to see Mycenae, Nafplio, and Epidavros in one day. Includes stop at Corinth Canal. Excellent tour guide!
Great trip to see a lot
Great trip with Marianna from Keytours. The day is well paced with an imformative guide with lots to see in one trip. Well worth it.
Mythology 101!
Full day of adventure, history and mythology. Lots of interesting stops to stretch our Athens visit. Our guide, George, was lighthearted and well educated about everything Greek! Fun informative story telling throughout the day!. We enjoyed everything and highly recommend.
Great tour, but not enough time in the places we visited
I really enjoyed this tour, but I felt it was all very rushed at times. The stop at Mykines , I wasn't aware it was up a steep hill to get to the monastery, and I couldn't manage it (left my folding walking stick at the hotel) so I just went in the little museum (took 10 mins) and bought a slush drink, and sat alone for 45 mins waiting to get back on the coach. We stopped off at various places along the way, which were interesting (and quick visits) We then went to an archelogy site, with a stadium which was impressive, but the site, had no proper sign posts and you couldn't easily find your way around. We had been given an audio guide, but I was expecting the tour guide to take us around, but it was just information about each place we visited. Again not enough time to do at a leisurely pace. Then the final place was Nafplion. It was beautiful, but again an hour and a half wasn't long enough. I wandered around the shops (some interesting ones) and grabbed a quick sandwich, and then back on the coach. I would have liked longer in each destination, to not to be rushing around, and to take each place in at a good pace.