Corinth
Κόρινθος
Ancient city that was once one of Greece's wealthiest and most powerful, straddling the isthmus between mainland Greece and the Peloponnese with ruins perched dramatically above. The archaeological site includes the iconic Temple of Apollo and offers both magnificent antiquities and stunning views of the surrounding geography.
Things to do
- Temple of Apollo — Explore the striking Doric columns of this 6th-century BCE temple, one of Greece's oldest surviving structures with commanding views over the isthmus.
- Acrocorinth Fortress — Hike to the summit of this acropolis for panoramic vistas of the Corinthian and Saronic Gulfs, with Byzantine and Venetian fortification ruins.
- Museum of Ancient Corinth — View pottery, sculptures, and artifacts spanning from Neolithic to Roman periods within a museum housed near the archaeological site.
- Isthmus Canal Viewing — Watch massive container ships pass through the Corinth Canal, an engineering marvel cut through solid rock connecting the Ionian and Aegean Seas.
- Ancient Agora Excavations — Wander through the remains of the Roman marketplace, lined with shops and featuring the South Basilica and Temple of Octavia.
- Theater of Ancient Corinth — Climb the stone tiers of this well-preserved ancient theater with echoing acoustics and views toward the Gulf of Corinth.
Food to try
- Feta with Local Honey — Savor creamy Corinthian feta cheese drizzled with regional wildflower honey, often served as an appetizer with bread and olives.
- Octopus Stifado — Sample tender octopus braised slowly with pearl onions and wine in this traditional Peloponnesian stew, reflecting the region's maritime heritage.
- Pastitsada — Try this layered pasta bake with meat ragù and béchamel sauce, a beloved regional comfort dish found in local tavernas.
- Corinthian Raisins — Taste the famous small, seedless black currants that grow in the surrounding region, enjoyed fresh or in traditional sweets and baked goods.
- Grilled Fish from the Gulfs — Enjoy fresh catch like sea bream and grouper simply grilled with lemon and olive oil from the nearby Corinthian and Saronic Gulfs.
Local customs & good to know
- Summer Heat Planning — Visit the archaeological site early morning or late afternoon to avoid midday heat, as the exposed ruins provide little shade.
- Respectful Site Behavior — Corinth is a working archaeological site; stay on marked paths, don't touch or remove artifacts, and be mindful of ongoing excavation areas.
- Local Hospitality Customs — Greeks value personal connection in dining and commerce; greet shopkeepers and taverna owners warmly, and slow dining is expected rather than rushed service.
- Evening Promenade Tradition — Join locals in the evening volta (stroll) through town squares and waterfront areas, a cherished social custom where people gather after the heat subsides.