2-Day Castle Tour: Acrocorinth, Palamidi, Bourtzi, Mystras & Sparta

Day 1: Exploring the Castles of Corinth and Nafplio

Your journey begins with a departure from Athens as we head towards the impressive Corinth Canal, a marvel of engineering that connects the Aegean and Ionian Seas. After a short stop for photos, we continue to our first castle, the legendary Acrocorinth.

Perched high on a rocky hill, Acrocorinth is one of the most well-preserved and significant fortresses in Greece. With origins dating back to antiquity, the castle has served as a stronghold for Greeks, Romans, Byzantines, Franks, Venetians, and Ottomans. As you walk through its ancient gates, admire breathtaking views of the Corinthian Gulf and explore its medieval towers, fortifications, and the remnants of ancient temples and churches.

Next, we journey to the beautiful coastal town of Nafplio, Greece’s first capital. Here, we visit Palamidi Castle, a Venetian fortress towering above the town. The climb up its famous 999 steps rewards you with spectacular panoramic views. This well-preserved fortress played a crucial role in the Greek War of Independence, and its vast bastions and corridors are a wonder to explore.

From Palamidi, we take a short trip to Bourtzi Castle, a small Venetian fortress situated on an islet in Nafplio’s harbor. Originally built to protect the city from naval invasions, Bourtzi is one of Nafplio’s most iconic landmarks.

After our castle explorations, you will have free time to enjoy Nafplio at your own pace. Wander through its charming alleys, explore its elegant neoclassical mansions, visit local shops, or relax at one of the seafront cafés. As the evening sets in, settle into your accommodation in Nafplio and enjoy a traditional Greek dinner by the sea.

Day 2: Mystras and Sparta – A Journey Through Byzantine and Ancient History

After breakfast, we depart Nafplio and head towards the historic region of Laconia, where the legendary Mystras awaits. This UNESCO-listed Byzantine city is one of the most extraordinary medieval sites in Greece. Built on the slopes of Mount Taygetos, Mystras was once a powerful cultural and religious center.

As we explore its well-preserved palaces, monasteries, churches, and fortifications, we step back in time to the era of Byzantine emperors and scholars. Highlights include the Despot’s Palace, the Monastery of Pantanassa, and the Church of Agios Dimitrios, where the last Byzantine emperor, Constantine XI Palaiologos, was crowned. The stunning frescoes and awe-inspiring ruins of Mystras make it a must-see destination for history lovers.

From Mystras, we continue to Sparta, the home of the ancient warrior society known for its discipline and military strength. While little remains of the ancient city, a visit to the Statue of Leonidas, the legendary Spartan king, and the Archaeological Museum of Sparta offers insight into the history of this powerful civilization.

Before returning to Athens, we enjoy a delicious meal at a traditional Greek taverna, savoring local specialties such as grilled meats, fresh salads, and regional cheeses.

As the journey concludes, we make our way back to Athens, bringing with us unforgettable memories of castles, medieval cities, and the legendary lands of Greece’s warriors and emperors.

EXTRAS that you can purchase while booking:

• Admission fees

• Accommodation in 3- or 4-star hotel, depending on availability

• Lunch or dinner each day for each passenger

 
INCLUSIONS:

• Wholly private tour (your party only)

• Transportation to and from your central hotel in Athens or Piraeus

• Transportation to and from the cruise terminal of Piraeus port and Athens International Airport

• Professional guide at Mystras (other sites if wanted are extra charge)

• Professional, English-speaking driver, who provides information and tips and does not enter the sites

• All fuel surcharges and toll roads

 
EXCLUSIONS:

• Admission fees

• Accommodation in hotels

• Lunch or dinner each day for each passenger

• Coffee, drinks, and snacks

 
KNOW BEFORE YOU BOOK:

• By booking you must deposit 20% of the amount or full amount

• You will be charged the rest (80%) of full amount 8 days before tour date

• Prices on bookings are for adults and children above 12

• If you have children under 12 or infants please contact us before booking so we can inform you for the extra charge

• Children under 18 must be accompanied by an adult

• All prices are for 1 private vehicle, for 1 to 3 passengers with a sedan, 4-6 passengers with a minivan, usually Mercedes Benz and 7-14 passengers with a Mercedes Benz minibus

• You must be able to walk on unpaved or uneven terrain; otherwise the driver will do their best for you to see most of the sites

• Departure time is usually between 5:00am-9:00am, based on your preference!

• Duration: 2 days, 1 night

• We reserve the right to cancel a booking for a full refund in the case of bad weather, site closures, health issues or for any reason that is out of are control

• Our drivers are professional, friendly, and knowledgeable. Their priority is your satisfaction and safety. All our drivers speak English and are ready to help and to provide tips!

• Our cars are well-maintained, clean, and have free Wi-Fi. Baby chairs, wheelchairs and most phone chargers are available on request, at no additional charge

  
CANCELLATION POLICY

• You can cancel free of charge up to 7 days in advance of the scheduled departure (100% refund)
• Cancellations between 3 and 6 days in advance of the tour incur a 50% cancellation fee
• Cancellations within 2 days of the scheduled departure incur a 100% cancellation fee
• For "EXTRAS" you have purchased (Admission fees, Professional tour guides, hotels, Lunch or dinner etc.) You can cancel free of charge until 7days before your tour is due to start
• After that time, no changes to pick-up times and no refunds or cancellations can be made
• We reserve the right to cancel a booking for a full refund in the case of bad weather, site closures, health issues or for any reason that is out of are control
• By booking you must deposit 100% of the amount OR deposit 20% of the amount and you will be charged the rest (80%) of full amount 8 days before tour date

For any questions we will be more than happy to answer within 24 hours.

• You can easily contact us on WhatsApp +306994805050 or just call or text us.

Covid-19

We All Stay Safe

All our vehicles are disinfected right after a Tour or Transfer
Hand sanitizer for drivers and guests to use

In all times drivers can use a face mask

Passenger restrictions apply

compliant to national legislation's