Biblical Tour Letters to The Corinthians – St Pauls Footsteps

If you’re curious about early Christian history and want to trace the footsteps of St. Paul in Greece, this private tour offers an engaging, well-rounded experience. While we haven’t personally taken it, reviews and detailed itineraries paint a picture of a thoughtfully curated journey through ancient Corinth, Athens, and surrounding sites with biblical resonance. It promises a mix of history, culture, and spiritual reflection, all wrapped into one manageable eight-hour day.

What makes this tour stand out? First, the flexibility — you can customize your itinerary and choose vehicle types suited to your style. Second, the chance to learn from knowledgeable drivers—who often share stories that bring the sites to life. Third, the chance to visit key biblical locations like Areopagus Hill, Corinth, and Cenchreae, along with ancient ruins that underscore Greece’s pagan past.

One potential consideration is pacing. Some reviewers noted feeling a bit rushed, especially when aiming to see many sites in a single day. If you prefer a more relaxed pace or deeper exploration, you might want to communicate this upfront or consider extending the tour.

This experience is ideal for those interested in Christian history, archaeology lovers, or travelers eager to walk where Paul once preached. It offers a unique perspective that combines spiritual significance with fascinating ancient ruins.

Key Points

• Highly customizable: You can tailor the itinerary and vehicle options to suit your preferences.
• Knowledgeable drivers: While not licensed guides, the drivers provide engaging commentary and insights.
• Biblical sites: Visits include major locations like Areopagus Hill, Corinth, and Cenchreae, with historical and spiritual context.
• Comfort and convenience: Private transport, WiFi, bottled water, and air conditioning make for a comfortable day.
• Potential for a fast pace: Some reviews mention feeling rushed, so pace or length might need adjustment.
• Ideal for Christian history enthusiasts: Perfect for those wanting an in-depth spiritual journey rather than just sightseeing.

Walking in St. Paul’s Footsteps: A Detailed Look

Starting with Areopagus Hill

Your day begins with a stop at Areopagus Hill, famously known as Mars Hill, where Paul delivered one of his most compelling sermons. Standing here, you’re transported back to the days when Paul challenged Athens’ intellectual elite about the “Unknown God.” The site offers stunning views over Athens and the Acropolis, making it a great spot for photos and reflection.

Many reviews highlight the emotional impact of standing where Paul once debated. One reviewer noted, “This stop offers a profound spiritual and historical experience, connecting you directly to the footsteps of St. Paul and the early days of Christianity.” Keep in mind: admission isn’t included, so budget a few euros for the entry if you wish to explore the summit more.

Corinth Canal and The Diolkos

Next, the journey takes you to the Corinth Canal, a marvel of 19th-century engineering. Standing on the canal’s edge, you’ll understand its historic importance as a shortcut for ships. The canal’s modern form is recent, but the idea dates back thousands of years to the times of Periander, the ancient Corinth ruler. It’s a striking photo op and a reminder of Corinth’s strategic maritime position.

Just a short drive away, the Diolkos offers a tangible link to ancient maritime transport. This ancient paved track allowed ships to be hauled overland across the isthmus—an incredible feat for its time. Exploring the site, you can imagine the hustle of merchants and sailors, some of whom likely crossed paths with Paul during his travels.

Isthmia: Where Sports and Spirit Collide

From here, the tour visits Isthmia, known for the Isthmian Games. These athletic competitions, second only to the Olympics, attracted athletes from across Greece. Paul’s presence here is believed to be significant; he likely worked as a tentmaker, but also mingled with visitors and athletes, sharing his faith.

A review mentioned, “Paul took the opportunity to share the message of Christ with the diverse audiences drawn to the Isthmian Games,” highlighting the site’s importance in early Christian outreach. The ruins include a stadium, an ancient temple dedicated to Poseidon, and the Sanctuary of Palaimon—sailors’ protector, symbolizing the diverse spiritual landscape Paul encountered.

The Arsenal of Ancient Corinth

Your visit to Ancient Corinth reveals a thriving city once filled with temples, markets, and bustling streets. Here, Paul preached during his 18-month stay, and his letters to the Corinthians still influence Christian theology today.

The highlight is the Bema, the Roman tribunal where Paul likely stood before the proconsul Gallio. Many reviews praise the site’s authenticity: “Standing on the Bema, you can almost hear the echoes of history and see the moment Paul defended his faith.” The site isn’t just a relic; it’s a vivid connection to biblical events.

Temples, Theaters, and Ancient Worship

Continuing the exploration, you’ll visit the Temple of Apollo, built around 560 BC. Its imposing columns and ruins evoke Corinth’s pagan past. Here, Paul’s message of one God was a direct challenge to the polytheistic environment. One reviewer pointed out, “The temple’s grandeur contrasts sharply with Paul’s message of faith in Christ, making the site especially powerful.”

At the ancient theater of Isthmia, Roman mosaics depict Dionysian myths, and the space was once filled with music and religious festivals. Today, it offers a stark reminder of the pagan world Paul sought to change.

Cenchreae and the Early Christian Church

A quieter but significant stop is Kechries (Cenchreae), where Paul stopped before sailing to Syria. Here, he fulfilled a vow by cutting his hair and mentions Phoebe, a key early Christian figure, in his letters. Many reviewers appreciated the connection to Paul’s personal journey: “Walking here, you can almost visualize Paul’s last moments before leaving Greece, carrying the message of Christ across the seas.”

Visiting the Apostle Paul’s Church and the Bema

Your final stops include Kechries’ church—a modern tribute to Paul—and the Apostolou Pavlou church, commemorating Paul’s time in Corinth. The Bema, once a Roman platform, is an especially poignant site, where Paul’s biblical trial took place.

One traveler noted, “Standing on the Bema, you realize the courage it took for Paul to stand up for his beliefs amid political and religious opposition.” It’s a powerful conclusion to a day filled with historical and spiritual discovery.

Optional Extra: Akrokorinthos Fortress

For those with extra time, Akrokorinthos Fortress offers panoramic views of Corinth. Walking up the ancient paths, you can imagine Paul gazing over the city, contemplating his mission. The fortress provides not just stunning scenery but a chance to connect physically with Paul’s environment.

Why Choose This Tour?

This tour strikes a fine balance between history, spirituality, and archaeology, making it perfect for travelers interested in the roots of Christian faith, ancient Greek culture, or both. The private nature allows flexibility, and the knowledgeable drivers add an extra layer of storytelling.

Many reviewers appreciated the friendly, considerate guides who could answer questions and share stories beyond the basic facts. The ability to customize the experience and opt for different vehicle types adds value, especially for those with specific interests or mobility needs.

On the downside, some found the pace a little quick, especially if they wanted to linger longer at each site. If you prefer a more leisurely exploration, communicating this beforehand, or planning a longer day, might be worth considering.

Practicalities and Value

At $379.18 for up to four people, the tour offers excellent value, especially considering the private transport, bottled water, and WiFi. The price reflects a personalized experience in a region where group tours can often feel rushed or impersonal.

While entrance fees to sites like Ancient Corinth are not included, the overall expense is still reasonable given the comprehensive itinerary. You get to see many significant locations without the hassle of self-driving or coordinating multiple tickets.

The 8-hour duration is ideal for covering extensive ground without feeling overwhelmed. Keep in mind that the tour driver is not licensed to guide inside the sites—if you want detailed historical insights at each stop, requesting a licensed guide might be an option.

The Sum Up

This private tour of St. Paul’s footsteps in Greece offers a balanced mix of biblical history, archaeological marvels, and stunning landscapes. It’s particularly suited for travelers passionate about Christian heritage, archaeology, or Greek history who want an adaptable and intimate experience. The knowledgeable drivers and flexible itinerary make exploring these ancient sites both educational and enjoyable.

While some may find the pace a bit brisk, the overall value, depth of history, and spiritual connection make this trip worthwhile. It’s a chance to walk where Paul once preached, see the landscapes he knew, and reflect on the enduring impact of his mission.

Whether you’re a devout believer, an archaeology buff, or simply curious about Greece’s Christian roots, this tour provides a well-rounded and meaningful journey through time and faith.

FAQ

Is pickup offered for this tour?
Yes, pickup from your Athens hotel is included, making the start of your day smooth and hassle-free.

Can I customize the itinerary?
Absolutely. The tour is private and offers the flexibility to tailor stops and vehicle types to fit your interests and needs.

Are guided tours included?
The driver is knowledgeable but not licensed to guide inside the sites. If you want in-depth historical explanations at specific locations, you can request a licensed guide (availability permitting).

What is the tour duration?
The tour lasts approximately 8 hours, offering plenty of time to explore all the key sites without feeling rushed.

How much does the tour cost?
It is priced at $379.18 per group (up to 4 people), providing good value for a private, personalized experience.

Are entrance fees included?
No, tickets for sites like Ancient Corinth and other archaeological sites are not included, so budget accordingly.

What should I bring?
Comfortable walking shoes, sun protection, water, and a camera are recommended. A hat and sunscreen are useful during outdoor stops.

Is this suitable for children or those with mobility issues?
The tour is private, so it can be adapted, but some sites involve walking on uneven terrain. Confirm your needs with the provider beforehand.

What if I want a deeper historical experience?
You can request a licensed guide for site visits, or add on extra time at specific locations if available, for a more in-depth exploration.