Acrocorinth
A colossal ancient fortress crowning a hilltop, offering unparalleled views and a journey through millennia of history.

Highlights
Must-see attractions
Social
From TikTok & Reddit
Best Time
Pleasant temperatures, fewer crowds
Acrocorinth
Best Time
Pleasant temperatures, fewer crowds

Highlights
Must-see attractions
A colossal ancient fortress crowning a hilltop, offering unparalleled views and a journey through millennia of history.
"Easily my favourite ancient European site I've ever visited. It's so massive! And the views!"
👟 Sturdy Footwear is Key
The terrain is uneven and rocky. Comfortable, closed-toe shoes are essential for exploring safely.
💧 Bring Plenty of Water
Especially in warmer months, staying hydrated is crucial. There are limited facilities on-site.
Highlights
Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences

Panoramic Views
Summit
Breathtaking vistas of the Corinthian and Saronic Gulfs, a reward for the climb.

The Acrocorinth Castle
Summit
Explore the sprawling, multi-layered fortress with remnants of various eras.

Temple of Aphrodite
Summit
Discover the ancient foundations of this significant religious site.
Planning Your Visit
Getting to Acrocorinth
Timing Your Visit
Best Times
Insider Tips
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit
Why is Acrocorinth so little- known?
👟 Sturdy Footwear is Key
The terrain is uneven and rocky. Comfortable, closed-toe shoes are essential for exploring safely.
💧 Bring Plenty of Water
Especially in warmer months, staying hydrated is crucial. There are limited facilities on-site.
How to travel from Athens to Ancient Corinth & what to do
Mycenae or Corinth?
🚗 Car or Tour Recommended
Public transport is limited. Renting a car or joining an organized tour simplifies visiting Acrocorinth and nearby sites.
⏳ Allow Ample Time
Acrocorinth is massive! Give yourself at least 2-3 hours to explore the castle and enjoy the views.
Athens to ancient corith and back again
Tips
from all over the internet
👟 Sturdy Footwear is Key
The terrain is uneven and rocky. Comfortable, closed-toe shoes are essential for exploring safely.
💧 Bring Plenty of Water
Especially in warmer months, staying hydrated is crucial. There are limited facilities on-site.
🚗 Car or Tour Recommended
Public transport is limited. Renting a car or joining an organized tour simplifies visiting Acrocorinth and nearby sites.
⏳ Allow Ample Time
Acrocorinth is massive! Give yourself at least 2-3 hours to explore the castle and enjoy the views.
What Travellers Say
Reviews Summary
Acrocorinth is lauded for its immense scale, stunning panoramic views, and rich historical layers, often surpassing expectations and rivaling more famous ancient sites. Visitors appreciate the challenging exploration and the feeling of stepping back in time. However, the site's remote location and limited facilities, coupled with the strenuous climb, can be drawbacks for some.
"I loved it
I know its a long hike The hike up is a bit steep, but totally worth it! If you love history, mythology, and spectacular scenery, this is a must-visit when in Corinth. Wear comfortable shoes and bring water—it's a big site to explore!"
Louie Farhat
"No entrance fees, spent about 2.5 hrs there…travelled around 2.85km inside. Elevation around 160m from the entrance. Could have explored more but the site closes at 3.30pm…the gate closes fully at 3.30pm and there doesn’t seem to be any way out after that, so have to be aware of the time. Alarms start sounding around 3pm. Toilets are located outside, where the restaurant is. Beautiful views and ruins, worth going definitely!"
Sarah Soong
"There are few places that do not require entrance fees, this is one of them. The view is amazing and you can climb all the way up to the very top of the fortress. Careful, the roads up in the fortress by foot are not easy. You cannot access it by wheelchair or if you are not fit enough you will find it difficult or impossible to climb up. But otherwise its breathtaking"
Marcell Kenesei
What People Like
What People Dislike
Frequently Asked Questions
🚇 🗺️ Getting There
Getting to Acrocorinth without a car can be challenging. You can take a train from Athens to New Corinth, then a bus or taxi to Ancient Corinth. From there, you'll need another taxi or a pre-arranged tour to reach Acrocorinth itself. Some travelers recommend organized tours for a smoother experience.
Yes, it's possible, but it requires good planning. Many visitors combine Ancient Corinth, Acrocorinth, and the Corinth Canal into a single day trip, often with a car or a guided tour.
While taxis are available, some travelers have reported concerns about potential scams. It's advisable to agree on a price beforehand or consider using ride-sharing apps if available and reliable in the area.
The distance between Ancient Corinth and Acrocorinth is about 3 km. You can walk if you're up for a steep climb, but most visitors opt for a short taxi ride or drive.
Uber availability can be inconsistent in this region. It's best to check the app upon arrival in New Corinth or rely on traditional taxis and pre-booked tours.
🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry
Acrocorinth typically opens around 8:00 AM and closes in the late afternoon, often around 7:00 PM or 8:00 PM depending on the season. It's always best to check the official hours closer to your visit as they can vary.
Yes, there is usually a small entrance fee to access the Acrocorinth site. The cost is generally affordable, making it a great value for the experience.
Currently, online ticket purchasing for Acrocorinth is not widely advertised. It's generally recommended to purchase tickets upon arrival at the site.
While there might not be official guides on-site, many organized tours from Athens or Corinth include Acrocorinth. You can also hire a private guide in advance if you prefer a more in-depth experience.
To avoid the largest crowds, aim for early morning shortly after opening or late afternoon before closing. Weekdays are generally less crowded than weekends.
🎫 🧭 Onsite Experience
Wear comfortable, sturdy walking shoes or hiking boots as the terrain is uneven and rocky. Light, breathable clothing is recommended, along with a hat and sunscreen for sun protection.
Facilities are very limited at Acrocorinth. There are basic restrooms, but no cafes or shops. It's essential to bring your own water and snacks.
To truly appreciate the scale and history of Acrocorinth, plan for at least 2-3 hours. If you want to explore thoroughly and enjoy the views, you could easily spend half a day.
Acrocorinth can be challenging for very young children due to the steep climbs and uneven surfaces. Older children who enjoy exploring and history might find it fascinating. Ensure they have appropriate footwear and supervision.
The main attractions include the impressive castle walls, various gates, remnants of Byzantine and Frankish structures, the ancient Temple of Aphrodite, and stunning panoramic viewpoints.
📸 📸 Photography
The summit offers incredible panoramic shots of the gulfs. Don't miss capturing the imposing castle architecture, the ancient temple ruins, and the winding paths leading up. The views at sunset are particularly magical.
The main challenge is navigating the terrain while holding a camera. The vastness of the site means you'll be doing a lot of walking. The lighting can be harsh midday, so early morning or late afternoon is ideal for photography.
Acrocorinth is perfect for landscape photography due to the sweeping views, architectural photography capturing the castle's layers, and historical photography of the ruins.
Drone usage regulations can be strict in historical sites. It's best to check local regulations before flying a drone. Even without one, the views are spectacular.
The 'golden hours' – shortly after sunrise and before sunset – provide the most dramatic and flattering light for photography at Acrocorinth. Midday sun can be harsh and create strong shadows.
For Different Travelers
Tailored advice for your travel style
👨👩👧 Families with Kids
For families with very young children or those with mobility concerns, Acrocorinth might be challenging. The site is extensive, and navigating it with strollers or carriers could be difficult. If you do visit with younger kids, focus on exploring the lower accessible areas and emphasize the 'castle' aspect to keep them entertained.
🚶 Budget Travelers
While renting a car offers convenience, it's also the most expensive option. Travelers can save by taking trains to New Corinth and then utilizing local buses or negotiating taxi fares carefully. Alternatively, look for group tours that might offer a more economical package than individual transport and entry fees.
Deep Dives
In-depth insights and expert knowledge
The Strategic Importance of Acrocorinth
The Temple of Aphrodite, once a prominent sanctuary, stood at the summit, highlighting the site's ancient religious significance alongside its military might. The views from the top are not just scenic; they are a testament to why this location was so fiercely contested. You can see for miles, encompassing both the Corinthian and Saronic Gulfs, a crucial vantage point for spotting approaching enemies.
Visitors often remark on how vast Acrocorinth is, far exceeding expectations. It’s not just a single castle but a sprawling complex that requires significant walking and climbing. This immensity is part of its allure, offering a sense of discovery as you navigate its ramparts and ruins.
Navigating Acrocorinth: Practicalities and Tips
While the site is impressive, getting there can be a hurdle if you don't have a car. Public transport options to the immediate vicinity of Acrocorinth are limited. Most travelers opt for an organized tour from Athens or Corinth, or they rent a car. If relying on taxis from New Corinth, it's wise to confirm prices beforehand to avoid potential scams.
Allowing ample time is key. Acrocorinth is not a quick stop; it's a place to explore. Two to three hours is a good minimum to wander through the castle, appreciate the views, and soak in the atmosphere. Visiting during the cooler parts of the day, like early morning or late afternoon, will significantly enhance your experience and make the exploration more enjoyable.
Social
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit