From Athens: Ancient Sparta and Nemea Wine Country Day Trip

Exploring the ancient ruins of Sparta and the picturesque vineyards of Nemea makes for an enticing day trip from Athens. Priced at $218.92 per person, this private tour promises an immersive cultural experience. Visitors will discover the UNESCO-listed site of Mystras, wander the Acropolis of Sparta, and savor a wine tasting at a renowned local winery. With comfortable transportation and an authentic Mediterranean lunch, this excursion offers a well-rounded glimpse into Greece’s storied past and vibrant present. What makes this day trip truly captivating, however, is the opportunity to uncover the unique stories that lie beneath the surface.

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Key Points

A private day trip from Athens to explore the ancient sites of Sparta and the Nemea wine region, with a photo stop at the Corinth Canal.
Visits to the UNESCO-listed Mystras, the Acropolis of ancient Sparta, and a wine tasting at Domaine Skouras winery in Nemea.
Complimentary transportation in a climate-controlled vehicle with WiFi and bottled water, and a Mediterranean lunch at a local taverna.
Knowledgeable drivers provide insights into Greece’s history and culture, offering a comprehensive cultural experience beyond typical tourist paths.
Convenient pickup and drop-off locations across Athens, with free cancellation up to 24 hours in advance and the option to reserve now and pay later.

You can check availability for your dates here:

Trip Overview and Pricing

This private day trip from Athens takes visitors on an 8-hour journey to explore the ancient sites of Sparta and the renowned Nemea wine country.

Priced from $218.92 per person, the tour offers free cancellation up to 24 hours in advance and the option to reserve now and pay later.

Priced from $218.92 per person, the tour offers free cancellation up to 24 hours in advance and the option to reserve now and pay later.

With 22 convenient pickup and drop-off locations across Athens, the trip provides private transportation in a climate-controlled vehicle, WiFi, and bottled water.

Wheelchair-accessible, the tour allows visitors to discover Greece’s history and culture at their own pace, immersed in the captivating atmosphere of the region.

Looking for more options in Mystras? We've reviewed plenty of other experiences.

Itinerary Highlights

The day trip offers 22 convenient pickup and drop-off locations across Athens, including areas like Moschato, Haidari, and Kolonaki.

Highlights include a photo stop at the Corinth Canal, visits to the Mystras Archaeological Site and Acropolis of Ancient Sparta, and a 30-minute stop at the Archaeological Museum of Mystras.

The journey also includes sightseeing in Nemea and a 30-minute wine tasting at Domaine Skouras winery.

Travelers will explore historic sites, learn about Greece’s rich culture, and enjoy an authentic Mediterranean lunch at a local taverna.

Transportation and Accessibility

Private transportation in an air-conditioned vehicle, whether a MiniVan, Mercedes Benz, or the New Skoda Fabia 2023, is provided for the day trip.

Complimentary WiFi and bottled water are available on board. The tour is wheelchair accessible, ensuring a comfortable experience for all guests.

The professional drivers have deep historical knowledge but aren’t licensed tour guides. This combination ensures a seamless and informative journey, allowing travelers to fully enjoy the captivating atmosphere of the ancient Greek sites and the Nemea wine region.

Cultural and Historical Experience

Travelers embark on a captivating journey to uncover Greece’s rich history and culture during this day trip.

They’ll explore the UNESCO-listed Mystras, a former Byzantine capital with an impressive citadel and remarkable architecture. In ancient Sparta, they’ll visit the iconic Acropolis and snap photos at the statue of King Leonidas.

Throughout the tour, guests learn about Greece’s storied past from knowledgeable drivers. An authentic Mediterranean lunch at a local taverna immerses them in the region’s culinary traditions.

From historic sites to regional flavors, this excursion offers a comprehensive cultural experience beyond the typical tourist path.

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Corinth Canal and Mystras

After departing Athens, the tour makes its first stop at the Corinth Canal, a remarkable feat of engineering that connects the Aegean and Ionian Seas.

Here, visitors enjoy a 15-minute photo opportunity, marveling at the steep limestone walls that rise 70 meters above the narrow waterway.

Next, the group travels to the ancient Byzantine city of Mystras, a UNESCO World Heritage site.

The tour explores this captivating historical site, which features:

The Acropolis and ruins of the old city
The Mystras Archaeological Museum
The Byzantine churches with stunning frescoes
Panoramic views of the surrounding mountains and valleys

The in-depth visit to Mystras provides a deep dive into Greece’s rich cultural heritage.

Acropolis of Ancient Sparta and Archaeological Museum

After exploring the captivating Mystras, the tour continues to the Acropolis of ancient Sparta.

Visitors ascend the citadel, standing in the footsteps of the legendary King Leonidas. At the top, they marvel at the stunning views and remnants of the once-mighty city-state.

Next, the group visits the Archaeological Museum of Mystras. Here, they uncover the region’s rich history through an impressive collection of Byzantine artifacts, including sculptures, mosaics, and religious icons.

The museum offers a fascinating glimpse into the cultural heritage of this UNESCO-protected site.

Nemea and Domaine Skouras Winery

Moving on from the captivating historical sites, the tour now heads to the picturesque region of Nemea.

Known for its world-class vineyards, this stop offers a glimpse into Greece’s thriving wine culture.

The group visits the renowned Domaine Skouras winery, where they:

Explore the serene vineyards and learn about the winemaking process.
Savor a tasting of the estate’s acclaimed wines, each showcasing the unique terroir.
Discover the nuances in flavor, body, and aroma that distinguish the region’s varietals.
Gain a deeper appreciation for the art and tradition of Greek winemaking.

This oenological experience completes the day’s immersion in the rich heritage of the Peloponnese.

Frequently Asked Questions

What Are the Vaccination Requirements for This Tour?

The vaccination requirements for this tour are not specified. Travelers should check with the tour operator for the latest health and safety protocols before booking.

Can I Bring My Own Food and Drinks on the Bus?

Passengers can bring their own food and drinks on the bus. The tour provides bottled water, but guests are welcome to bring any additional snacks or beverages they may want during the trip.

Is the Tour Guide Fluent in Multiple Languages?

The tour guides are multilingual, fluent in both English and Greek. They’re knowledgeable about the region’s history and culture, providing insightful commentary throughout the day trip.

How Much Free Time Is Allotted at Each Site?

The tour offers designated visit times at each site, typically ranging from 30 minutes to 1.5 hours. This allows ample time to explore the highlights and soak in the historical and cultural significance of each location.

Can I Purchase Souvenirs at the Winery Stop?

Yes, visitors can purchase souvenirs at the Domaine Skouras winery during the 30-minute wine tasting stop. The winery offers a selection of locally produced wines and other merchandise for guests to browse and purchase.

The Sum Up

This day trip from Athens offers a captivating blend of ancient history and scenic wine country. Visitors can explore the UNESCO-listed Mystras, the Acropolis of Sparta, and enjoy a wine tasting at the renowned Domaine Skouras winery. With comfortable transportation, authentic Mediterranean cuisine, and expert guidance, it’s an immersive and well-rounded cultural experience for those seeking to explore the richness of Greece’s past and present.