Gulf of Corinth: Our 14 highlights from the canal to Patras

If you are still looking for real insider tips on your trip to Greece, you have to visit the Gulf of Corinth between the Peloponnese peninsula and the central mainland. The 127 km long branch of the Ionian Sea is framed by majestic mountains, which give the gulf the flair of a quiet mountain lake.

»Away from the hustle and bustle of the Greek islands, travelers will find an oasis of originality on the Gulf of Corinth.«

With the Corinth Canal, the region has one of the most memorable places in Greece. Where the waves gently crash against the coast, past and present meet, because between modern cities such as Corinth and Patras there are numerous archaeological finds.

But it is not only the history of the “Korinthiakos Kolpos”, as the Greeks say, that enchants visitors, but also the culinary treasures (including the currants) and the many warm encounters with locals allow visitors to experience the beauty of the Gulf of Corinth in an unforgettable way.

We will take you on a journey of discovery to the most important Sights on the Gulf of Corinth and worthwhile detours in the hinterland:

#1 Corinth Canal

For Greece fans, the Corinth Canal a must visit. The 6,343-meter-long canal is the most important sight on the gulf of the same name. As a waterway, the marvel of engineering enables a direct ship connection from the Ionian Sea in western Greece across the Gulf to the Aegean Sea in the southeast.

It thus shortens the long journey around the Peloponnese by up to 325 km. The Corinth Canal is located at the narrowest point between the Peloponnese and the Attica Peninsula (Greater Athens area), the so-called Isthmus of Corinth. The idea of a breakthrough is over 2,600 years old, but the current canal was not built until between 1891 and 1893.

The engineers have dug up to 84 meters deep into the sandstone. Around 11,000 ships pass through the waterway every year, which can be navigated up to a width of 17 metres. From the viewpoint on the Isthmus Bridge on the old national road (Palia Ethniki Odos) you can admire the ships that make their way along the cliffs through the turquoise-blue channel.

Exploring the Sousaki Volcano

The Sousaki Volcano is located about 7 km east of the Corinth Canal. It is considered to be the northernmost volcano of the volcanic arc of the Aegean Sea, which also includes the islands of Santorini, Milos and Nisyros. The volcano still shows slight activity. In many places in the last eruption zone, sulphur vapours rise.

The thermal springs of Loutraki (see point #2) are also probably connected to the Sousaki. Especially adventure seekers and hikers will enjoy the volcanic landscape on the Gulf of Corinth. Before the Oil Refinery Motor Oil Hellas you branch off to Agii Theodori. A gravel road leads to Sousaki, exploring the volcanic field is at your own risk.

#2 Loutraki Hot Springs

International tourists hardly know them, but with Greeks the Thermal Springs of Loutraki are very popular. They are only a 10-minute drive north of the viewpoint on the Corinth Canal. The name Loutraki is derived from the Greek word “loutro” for spa. Archaeologists have found remains of Roman buildings here (including the Roman villa of Katounistra), which indicate a bathing operation in antiquity.

In the 19th century, scientists once again recognised the therapeutic benefits of the thermal water, which triggered a real construction boom in the region. The Loutraki Municipal Thermal Springs on the northwestern outskirts of the village offer a historical insight into the thermal industry. Although it is not possible to swim here, the healing water can be tasted and the scenery in the form of a rotunda is inspiring.

• Loutraki Municipal Thermal Springs Opening Hours: 9 a.m. – 2 p.m. (closed Mon & Sat), free admission

Only 400 m further south is the thermal bath Loutraki Thermal Spa as one of the most modern in Greece. In large and small pools you can convince yourself of the therapeutic benefits of the healing water. The neighboring Loutraki Beach Park invites you to take a walk under palm trees. Loutraki also owns the Club Hotel Casino Loutraki (View on Booking*) is one of the largest casinos in Europe.

• Opening hours of the Loutraki Thermal Spa: daily 11 a.m. – 7 p.m., admission 10 €, website: Loutraki Spa

Visit to the Monastery of Agios Patapios

After wellness and relaxation in the thermal springs of Loutraki, you can enjoy the historic Monastery of Agios Patapios, located directly above the village. By car, the drive over a steep mountain road takes only 15 minutes. From the top, there is a breathtaking view of Loutraki and the Gulf of Corinth.

If you want to feel the full power of this holy place, hike on the dead straight path past the monastery of the prophet Elias Loutraki to the monastery of Agios Patapios, 650 m above sea level. From the exit of Loutraki to the monastery it is about 2.5 km. For the moderately difficult hike, you should plan a total of 2.5 to 3 hours.

• Opening hours Agios Patapios Monastery: open daily (check siesta times with locals in advance), free admission

#3 Ancient Corinth

Ancient Corinth is located about 6 km west of the modern city of Corinth and is one of the most important archaeological sites in Greece. Corinth was considered a politically active state in ancient Greece and even founded colonies in Italy, such as the city of Syracuse in Sicily. The power that once emanated from this place can still be felt today when walking through the field of ruins.

Highlights are the mighty Temple of Apollo of Corinth, the Agora (market hall) and the Bema, the Judges’ Square from Roman times. Here the apostle Paul is said to have been accused by the consul of Corinth during his visit. The Pauline letters still bear witness to the Apostle’s difficulties in founding a Christian congregation in Corinth.

The Archaeological Museum of Ancient Corinth is also located on the site and provides further insights into the contemporary history of this region on the Gulf of Corinth. Right next to the excavation site is the town of Archaia Korinthos, which is well geared to tourism with souvenir shops, restaurants and accommodation.

• Opening hours Ancient Corinth: open all year round, including from May to the end of August from 8 a.m. to 8 p.m., admission 15 € (reduced 8 €)

Acrocorinth Fortress

Even when visiting ancient Corinth, the mighty hill directly behind the site is noticeable, the Acrocorinth Fortress – another highlight near Corinth. The view from the top of the surrounding area is spectacular. The 575-metre-high Table Mountain was already fortified in ancient times. The current walls date back to the Middle Ages, when the castle was occupied alternately by Crusaders and Ottomans.

Numerous buildings have recently been restored to preserve acrocorinth. On the extensive grounds there are still partly well-preserved medieval churches and even a mosque. On the highest point, a temple in honour of Afrodite is said to have once stood. A paved road leads to the free parking pitch of Acrocorinth below the summit.

• Opening hours of Acrocorinth: all year round from 8:30 a.m. to 3:30 p.m., free admission

Far-reaching view from Mount Fokas

If you have enough time for the Kornith region and would like to go high, you should not miss a trip to Mount Fokas (translated: Robbenberg). The 873-meter-high Table Mountain offers a magnificent view of vineyards and olive groves. To just below the summit, where the Castle of Fokas together with the Hermitage was spectacularly built into the rock, a gravel road leads.

#4 Time out in Xylokastro

If you’re tired of visiting historical sites and medieval fortresses, stop for a swim on the shores of the Gulf of Corinth. In the small town of Xylokastro, 35 km from Corinth, there is one of the most beautiful beaches in the region, the Paralia Pefkias Xylokastrou.

Pefkias Park with its 2 km long pine forest (Greek: pefki) is located right by the sea and is a true oasis of relaxation. Xylokastro by the way, means “castle made of wood”. The city was founded in the Middle Ages by the Venetians, who built a wooden watchtower on the highest point of the village to control incoming shipping traffic.

Xylokastro itself presents itself in a modern way with a long beach promenade where cafés and restaurants with tables directly on the sea invite you to linger. If you want to spend a few days relaxing in a good hotel on the Gulf of Corinth is searched for in the Sikyon Coast Hotel & Resort directly on the beach of Xylokastro. Further information about the hotel is available from our partner Booking.com*:

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Oak forest of Moggostou

In the hinterland of Xylokastro hides with the oak forest of Moggostou, a true natural treasure. The slightly elevated terrain offers dense trees, a bizarre rust-red earth and interesting rock formations. On a circular trail (10 km) you can explore the area. An extended hike through the Mongostou Forest is worthwhile in autumn and spring. Unfortunately, the fairytale forest is not yet a nature reserve.

#5 Odontotos Railway: From Diakopto to Kalavryta

By train from the shores of the Gulf of Corinth through an impressive landscape up to the mountains of the Peloponnese peninsula – the Odontotos Railway makes Railway romance in Greece possible. Originally built in 1885, the ride was out of service for decades and reopened in 2009 after a long restoration.

Today, the 22 km long historic railway line from the coastal town inspires Diakopto to the mountain town of Kalavryta Railway enthusiasts from all over Europe have long been familiar with the 750 mm narrow-gauge railway, and some sections of the track are even used with cogwheel technology because of the gradient.

On the way to the 740 m high Kalavryta you pass the unspoilt Vouraikos Gorge, passes through several tunnels and narrow sections of track directly under the steep walls. There is only one thing that travelers have to do without, despite all the nostalgia for the railway: it is not driven by a steam locomotive, but by a modern train. The following video gives an impression of the train ride, which is well worth seeing:

In the stations of Diakopto and Kalavryta you can see the original steam locomotives. The train runs daily throughout the year and is only stopped in case of unfavourable weather conditions (e.g. storm, snowfall). Everything you need to know about the Odontotos Railway available at: Odontotos

Kastria Cave and Lakes

Only 20 minutes south of Kalavryta, a visit to the Caves of the Lakes (Greek: Spileo ton Linnmon). The extensive underground system of the Chelmos-Vouraikos Geopark consists of 3 levels and 13 individual lakes, which are connected by rivers and waterfalls depending on the season.

Archaeologists have found traces of human use since the Stone Age. There is a small museum on site, where finds are exhibited and information about the origin of the cave is provided. In January and February, the cave lakes are most crowded due to the melting of snow. The Kastria Cave Lakes are currently only accessible to visitors over a length of 2 km (3 lakes).

• Opening hours Kastria Caves: daily from 9 a.m. to 4:30 p.m., admission 9 € (reduced 4.50 €)

#6 Egio and Trypiti Monastery

About 15 km northwest of Diakopto lies the largely unknown and yet interesting town in its own way Egio, also Aigio on the Gulf of Corinth. If you want to experience Greece without beauty filters, but unadulterated and without make-up, you are in good hands in the town of 30,000 inhabitants. For alternative travelers, it should be mentioned that Aigio can even be reached by train from Athens.

On the waterfront with its cozy cafés (tip: Cityzen Espresso), where the Twelve Fountains (Dodeka Vryses) , it is wonderful to stroll. The new town is slightly elevated above the sea and also offers interesting places, such as the Faneromeni Church. In recent years, a lot has been invested in the cityscape, but Egio is still waiting for visitors.

The main attraction of Egio is the Sanctuary of Panagia Trypiti right on the harbour. On the Friday after the Orthodox Easter, many Greeks make a pilgrimage here. The original church (16th century) was partly built in the rock, but in the 19th century, after the foundation of the new Greek state, it received its current neoclassical form, that of the Panagia Evaggelistria of Tinos resembles.

#7 Patras: Gateway to the Gulf of Corinth

Patras in the northwest of the Peloponnese peninsula with its large ferry port is considered the gateway to the Gulf of Corinth. The city of 200,000 inhabitants does not seem very inviting at first glance, but there is a lot to discover inside the tangle of cities.

In the liberation struggle against the Ottomans (19th century) and in the Second World War, a not inconsiderable part of the historic old town of Patras destroyed with relics from two millennia. Reconstruction was sluggish, but today Patras presents itself as a modern university city. If you want to stay in the city for a few days, the The Bold Type Hotel (Watch on Booking.com*) is in good hands.

History buffs will visit the remains of a Roman agora and the Odeon (theater). It gets really cozy with an almost village flair in the (still existing) old town district directly on the Patras Kastro. The taverns around the Kastro are among the most traditional in the whole city.

From the fortress, whose origins date back to the 6th century, you will also have a magnificent view over the rooftops of the city to the Ionian Sea. Culture fans should take a look at the Apollon Theatre of Patras not to be missed. It was designed by the German architect Ernst Ziller and is a miniature version of the Teatro alla Scala in Milan.

Rio-Andirrio Bridge near Patras

The bridge with the bizarre name was built from 1998 to 2004 and is now one of the most important and imposing infrastructure structures in the country. The cable-stayed bridge, which rests on four pylons, is located between the towns of Rio and Andirrio (Greek for “opposite Rio”) at the only 2.5 km narrow point at the entrance of the gulf.

For a long time, the 771 million euro project was considered unfeasible because the Gulf was located in an earthquake zone (see article: Greece Earthquake). However, in August 2004, shortly before the Olympic Games in Greece, the Rio-Andirrio Bridge ceremoniously opened. Today, travelers are happy about the comfortable crossing, which, however, also costs around 14 euros per car.

#8 Nafpaktos: The Charming Port City

Nafpaktos is an ideal stopover on a journey along the northern part of the Gulf of Corinth. Just a 30-minute drive east of Patras is the historic port city of Nafpaktos. We visited the charming town with its almost 13,400 inhabitants in September and immediately took it to our hearts.

The Venetian port of Nafpatkos with its striking shape in the historic city center should not be missed. In the cafés (tip: NAVE Cafe-Bar) directly at the bulbous pier you can enjoy a Freddo with a view of the picturesque harbor entrance. In the center of the village there are countless traditional taverns and restaurants for a lunch break (tip: Apiko).

Well fortified, we go through the stone city gate Sideroporta up to the Fortress of Nafpaktos from Venetian times. From the castle walls you have a great view over to the Rio Andirrio Bridge of Patras. Below the fortress you can spend the evening in the Café Kastro Let it fade away. Here, too, the view from the terrace is magnificent!

Monastery of Ag. Augustine & Seraphim of Sarov

In the hinterland of the northern Gulf coast there are numerous Orthodox monasteries, some centuries old, others postmodern. Halfway between Nafpaktos and the cozy fishing village of Monastiraki, about 9 km from the national road 48, near the village of Trikorfo, lies one of the most extraordinary monasteries in Greece, the Monastery Ag. Augustine and Seraphim Sarov.

It is located at an altitude of 900 m and was founded around 1991. Today, several dozen monks from all over the world live here. It is dedicated to Seraphim of Sarov, one of the most important saints of modern times in the Russian Orthodox Church, and to Augustine of Hippo, one of the four Latin Church Fathers (5th century AD).

The entire monastery is surrounded by a mighty wall, so that the complex looks like a knight’s castle from a distance. The impressive entrance area with the meter-high bell tower, whose numerous bells are rung by hand every five years in honor of the Seraphim of Sarov, is another highlight of the complex. A museum and a monastery shop with herbs and cosmetics from their own production are also on site.

#9 Trizonia: Island idyll in the Gulf of Corinth

»The Little Happiness of Silence« – that describes the only inhabited island in the Gulf of Corinth perfectly. Trizonia is located about half an hour from Nafpaktos and can be reached by boat from the coastal hamlet of Chania (crossing from €2) in just five minutes.

Only 64 inhabitants live all year round on the tiny island, which is only 3 km long and 1.5 km wide. During our visit in October, we were amazed at the entrance to the port of Trizonia. We found not only a true postcard idyll, but also a real Greece Insider Tip.

Around the bulbous harbour pier of the only place in the Island of Trizonia nestles a handful of taverns. In front of the rustic restaurants, hungry cat’s mouths wait for something to fall off for them too. The taverns Kalypso and Ostria remain in our memories with their homemade Greek cuisine and a lot of hospitality.

No car noise penetrates the peaceful silence, because Trizonia is completely car-free. We quickly noticed: On Trizonia, the clocks tick more slowly. The island is a perfect place to slow down in the Gulf of Corinth and definitely worth a visit! After three days it was time for us to say goodbye to the beautiful Trizonia Mare Suites (More info) we could have stayed longer.

#10 Galaxidi: Picture-perfect place of Central Greece

A true pearl on the Gulf of Corinth is located just 35 minutes from the archaeological site of Delphi. Galaxidi with its 3,000 inhabitants is picturesquely located on a headland by the sea. Pastel-colored captain’s houses with red roofs line the waterfront, high above the sea of houses rises the church of Agios Nikolaos.

Galaxidi was once an important seafaring city and was home to one of the most powerful merchant fleets in the entire Mediterranean. Even today, on a walk through the picturesque alleys of Galaxidi the splendour of bygone times. We immediately fell in love with the pretty small town and captured many great photo motifs.

There are a few hotels in the center that are suitable for an overnight stop on your round trip around the Gulf of Corinth. In contrast to other picturesque places on the Greek islands, Galaxidi is still quite quiet. Due to its proximity to Delphi, the coastal town is a popular destination for Greeks, especially on weekends.

Along the waterfront, numerous taverns invite you (tip: Ab oVo Restaurant Galaxidi) and cafés invite you to linger. By the way, Galaxidi is best captured photographically along Kammenou Street in the east, which leads to the monument to the captain’s wives. If you want to enjoy Galaxidi in peace, you should plan 2-3 nights, e.g. in the recommended Galaxidi Sea View Apartment (View on Booking*).

#11 Oracle of Delphi

From Galaxidi we drive along the coastal road via the industrial city of Itea to the next highlight on the Gulf of Corinth, the famous Oracle of Delphi. Even though the oracle has long since fallen silent today, the ancient site of Delphi, located only about 20 km north of the Gulf of Corinth, is one of the most important excavation sites in the country.

#12 Monastery of Hosios Lukas

From Itea, a winding pass road leads up to a mountain plateau. Be careful, there are often large trucks transporting goods from the aluminium industry (including bauxite) here. Once at the top, you will be greeted with a fantastic view of the Itea Bay with the rocky islands Ag. Antonios and Ag. Constantinos, which were connected by a dam in the Middle Ages.

On the plateau we pass the large village of Desfina (tavern tip: O Platanos) and the historic town of Distomo (Massacre of Distomo) can be reached in a good 30 minutes to the holy Monastery of Hosios Lukas. The complex at the foot of the imposing Parnassus Mountains was founded as early as the 10th century by the monk Luke of Styria, who was said to have clairvoyant abilities.

Since 1990, Hosios Lukas has been a UNESCO World Heritage Site and lists after Daphne near Athens and Nea Moni on Chios Island, to the most important Byzantine monasteries. The Katholikon is unusually connected to another church, the walls are made of bricks and partly of ancient marble blocks, which probably come from the nearby oracle of Delphi.

The interior is decorated with mosaics from the 11th century and colorful frescoes from the late Middle Ages. Around the main church there are numerous monastery cells and a museum (3 € admission) gives further insights into the history. The monastery of Hosios Lukas is open all year round, and appropriate clothing must be worn.

• Opening hours Hosios Lukas Monastery: winter 8 a.m. – 3 p.m., summer 10 a.m. – 5 p.m., free admission

Livadia Waterfalls and Springs

Only 35 km northeast of the monastery lies the provincial town of Livadia with its largely modern architecture. Nevertheless, it is worth a detour, because the Krya Springs (Piges Kryas) in the historic city center offer a real spectacle, especially in spring, when the Erkyna River makes its way out of the mountains through the city in several cascades.

Along the riverbed there are still historic watermills and an old hydroelectric power plant. On the traffic-calmed promenade with its huge plane trees, cosy cafés and restaurants invite you to linger. Livadia can be reached either via the mountain road from Kyriaki or via the national road 48 from Distomo.

#13 Porto Germeno and Aigosthena

In the far east of the Corinthian Sea, at the foot of Mount Kithaironas (1,409 m), lies the sleepy resort Porto Germeno. Only in July and August, when the Greeks go on holiday, is the town of 80 inhabitants a little more turbulent and the café bars and taverns directly on the village beach are jam-packed.

Quite a few Athenians (only 1 hour away) even have their summer residence here, as the place exudes the rustic charm of 1990s Greece. So it’s no wonder that in summer every beach holidaymaker brings his own parasol with him to the elongated Porto Germeno Beach endless rows of beach loungers are missing here.

At the bottom of the beach, you can even admire a Byzantine church in honor of St. Nicholas right by the sea, with frescoes still well preserved. In general, the coast around Porto Germeno is quite rugged and therefore very varied, everywhere those seeking peace and quiet will find small pebble beaches and bays.

Above the village stretched the ancient city of Aigosthena. The city walls with their defensive towers from around 800 BC are among the best preserved of this era. You can also visit the ruins of a Byzantine monastery (12th century). Due to the elevated position above Porto Germeno, you can enjoy a magnificent view of the Gulf of Corinth from here.

#14 Perachora and Lake Ireon

About an hour south of Porto Germeno is the historic region of Perachora, whose landmass juts like a sharp thorn into the Gulf of Corinth. The large eponymous village of Perachora is located on a hill at an altitude of 300 m and exudes a tranquillity that many places on the Greek islands can only dream of.

In the good taverns (tip: O Vasilis), you will be spoiled with tasty home cooking. Afterwards, it is worth visiting the folklore museum, which gives insights into the traditions of the last centuries. From the village you can already see the Limni Vouliagmenis, also known as Lake Ireon. The lagoon-like lake is connected to the gulf by a narrow channel and is worth a detour.

A little further west are the remains of a sanctuary in honor of the goddess Hera. The so-called Heraion of Perachora impresses with its location directly on the sea, the Heraion Bay of the same name with its sandy beach invites you to swim. The excavations are still in progress, but admission is free. Particularly impressive are the remains of a huge ancient cistern.

Just a stone’s throw away from the Heraion is the Melagavi Lighthouse at the tip of Cape Agrilaos. A dirt road takes you from the car park in just under 400 m to the pretty, 13 m high lighthouse made of natural stone. Originally built in 1897, it has been a listed building since 2001 and is considered the most beautiful sunset spot on the Gulf of Corinth.

Cave of the seal

The Spilia tis fokias, translated Seal Cave, is located about 20 minutes north of the village of Perachora and impresses with its natural beauty. The large rock arch right by the sea is a great photo opportunity, as the water below shimmers in the most beautiful shades of blue.

From the Hamlet of Alkiona you can reach an unpaved parking lot via a 500 m long gravel road. From here it is only a few meters on foot to the viewpoint. Because of the weathered and rocky coast, a descent to the sea is not recommended. You can explore the sea grotto by kayak or boat, providers are available in Alkiona.

The nearby natural Mikra Strava Beach invites you to swim all the more and is considered by connoisseurs to be one of the most beautiful beaches on the Gulf of Corinth. Except for midsummer, things are usually very relaxed here. From the car park, a gravel path leads east to the beach in 5 minutes.

Travel tips for the Gulf of Corinth

Hotel tips on the Gulf of Corinth

The Gulf is a paradise for individual travellers, there is suitable accommodation for every taste. The hotels directly on the Gulf of Corinth are the most expensive, in the hinterland there are overnight accommodations that are priced below the national average. In recent years, larger hotels have settled around Loutraki, Xylokastro and Nafpaktos.

Below you will find our recommendations for accommodations in the Gulf of Corinth. For more information about the hotels and apartments, please contact our partner Booking.com*, where you can also view the individual accommodations on a map:

Alkyon Suites, Agios Vasilios

Mini-retreat above the fishing village of Agios Vasilios with a dose of end-of-the-world feeling. The spacious apartment offers sea views as well as picturesque sunsets, the rich breakfast is served on the balcony. It is a 5-minute walk to the beach. All details about the accommodation on Booking.com*:

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Battaglia di Lepanto, Nafpaktos

Charming 3-star hotel in the heart of Nafpaktos. Elegant rooms and suites at fair prices, delicious breakfasts and courteous staff. All details about the accommodation on Booking.com*:

➲ Book Battaglia di Lepanto*

Kalafatis Beach Home, Itea

Located on the outskirts of Itea, seafront apartments with a small private beach near Nafsika Beach. Very nice décor with large terrace, friendly host and quiet location. Good starting point for exploring the northern part of the Gulf of Corinth. All details about the accommodation on Booking.com*:

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Trizonia Mare Suites, Trizonia Island

Small, family-run boutique hotel above the waterfront. Modern apartments with comfortable beds and large balconies with sea views. The lovely Maria is available with advice and support and serves a rich breakfast every morning on the cosy hotel terrace. All details about the accommodation on Booking.com*:

➲ Book Trizonia Mare Suites*

Sugar Home, Xylokastro

Katarina and Vagelis run a cozy bed and breakfast right at Pefkias Park in Xylokastro. Quiet location, lovingly furnished rooms, good breakfast and only two minutes from the beach. All details about the accommodation on Booking.com*:

➲ To book Sugar Home*

Sul Mare, Diakopto

Beautiful holiday home in a prime location can accommodate at least 6 people (2 bedrooms). High-quality equipment (including washing machine and AC), cozy garden right by the sea. Good starting point to explore the southern and western parts of the gulf. All details about the accommodation on Booking.com*:

➲ Book Sul Mare*

Guided tours in the area

The Golf is a classic individual travel destination. The range of organized excursions is limited, but there is the possibility to take individual day trips from Athens (e.g. to ancient Corinth or to Delphi). The Corinth Canal is also visited in combination with highlights on the Peloponnese (including Mycenae, Epidaurus). These excursions are offered by GetYourGuide*:

➲ To the tours to ancient Corinth*

➲ To the tours to Delphi*

➲ To the Peloponnese day trip*

Beautiful beaches on the Gulf of Corinth

Along the south coast there are numerous beaches on the Gulf of Corinth, the northern part offers somewhat fewer bathing opportunities due to the mountainous character. Even in summer, many bathing bays away from the villages are sometimes deserted. Another advantage is the relatively low swell due to the inland sea character. However, most of the beaches are pebble beaches, only a few have fine sand.

→ Our Beach recommendations on the south coast of the Gulf of Corinth:

• Paralia Kalamia, Corinth
• Paralia Vrachatiou, Vrachati
• Xylokastro Beach (Pefkias), Xylokastro
• Aigeiras Beach, Aigeira
• Paralia Akratas, Akrata
• Paralia Pounta, Trapeza
• Paralia Nikoleikon, Nikolaika
• Paralia Mpoukas, Mpouka

→ Our Beach recommendations on the north coast of the Gulf of Corinth:

• Monastiraki Beach, Monastiraki
• Skaloma Beach, Marathias
• Red Beach, Trizonia Island
• Vathi Beach, Tolofonos
• Agios Vasileios Beach, Galaxidi
• Asteri Beach, Itea
• Havgosi Beach, Ag. Vasileios
• Mikra Strava Beach, Alkiona
• Paralia Skalosias, Perachora

Campsites in the Gulf of Corinth

The Gulf of Corinth is a very interesting place to visit due to its proximity to the Peloponnese and its many attractions and a perfect Greek destination for camping holidays. Some good campsites have established themselves around the Gulf, some of which are even open all year round. Here are our recommendations for camping stops in the region:

Camping near Corinth

Two small but nice campsites are located near Corinth. The Camperstop Olivetree is located in the middle of an olive grove about 9 km west of Corinth and offers everything a camper’s heart desires. The sanitary facilities meet German standards. Due to the rural location, animal noises are to be expected.

The second recommended pitch is the Camperstop Ancient Corinth (also Afrodites Waters) on the outskirts of Archea Corinth, not far from the archaeological site of ancient Corinth. There are pitches for caravans and motorhomes in a compact area, a kiosk offers a small assortment and a snack bar serves daily changing dishes at fair prices.

Camping near Delphi

The campsite is located a good 500 m a.s.l., just 10 minutes from the ancient city of Delphi. With views over the countryside lined with olive trees to the Gulf of Corinth, the Delphi Campsite a prime location. The tavern on the square serves home-style cuisine and a swimming pool invites you to refresh yourself on hot days.

Camping in the north-east of the Gulf

The facility Alkioni Holidays Located in the hamlet of Agia Sotira near Porto Germeno, this hotel offers direct access to the hotel’s private beach. Popular with long-term campers, but also with motorhome owners because of the natural pitches and the idyllic location above the sea. The tavern at the campsite is rustic, but offers good food and a wonderful view of the bay of Ag. Sotira.

Camping near Patras

Akrata Beach Camping: Campsite directly on the beach of the same name in Akrata, about halfway between Patras and Corinth. Clean sanitary facilities, quiet location and small kiosk on the site.

Camperstop En Plo: Compact, somewhat rustic campground directly by the sea between Egio and Diakopto. If consumed in the campsite’s tavern, the pitch (as of 2023) is free of charge. Patras is about a 45-minute drive away.

Camping Tsolis: Cosy, green campsite on the seafront, which extends over several levels. Well-maintained sanitary facilities and a small tavern on the premises. The pitches directly by the sea are recommended, the upper ones are not far from the A8 motorway.

How to get to the Gulf of Corinth

Although the Gulf of Corinth is quite centrally located in Greece , the distances within the country should not be underestimated. From Athens Airport, you can reach the Gulf of Corinth in an hour (100 km). However, if you travel from northern Greece, e.g. from Thessaloniki, it takes at least 5.5 hours (about 500 km) to reach the Corinthian Sea.

If you are travelling by ferry from Italy with your own car, you will be able to Greek port of Igoumenitsa takes about 2.5 hours (230 km) to reach the Rio-Andirrio Bridge. Instead of the A8 motorway in the direction of Athens, the scenic old national road directly along the sea is recommended if you have enough time.

Flights to Patras and Athens

Athens ATH Airport is served directly by several German airports throughout the year, including Aegean Airlines and Lufthansa. A direct flight to the capital usually offers the cheapest airfares. Alternatively, you can fly to Patras GPA Airport (Araxos) during the season. Your journey then begins west of the Gulf of Corinth.

→ About our partner Skyscanner* you can search for suitable flights for your trip to Greece:

➲ To the flight search on Skyscanner (Athens)*

➲ To the flight search on Skyscanner (Patras)*

Rental car for a round trip on the Gulf of Corinth

Anyone who has a Round trip around the Gulf of Corinth should plan at least 7, better 10 days to experience all the highlights. The circumnavigation of the Gulf of Corinth is about 450 km long and, with the exception of the northeastern part (between Itea and Porto Germeno), runs mostly along the coast. By the way, there are local rental car companies in almost every major city on the Gulf.

→ You can book your rental car in advance through our partner Discover Cars* directly at Athens or Patras airport:

➲ Book your rental car here*

→ More articles and numerous Greece Mainland Travel Tips can be found here:

• Greece Regions
• Peloponnese Tour
• Athens Holidays

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