Things To Do
in Kórinthos

Kórinthos is a historic port town in the eastern Peloponnese where ancient ruins meet a lively waterfront. It sits at the Isthmus of Corinth, guarding the narrow land bridge between the mainland and the Peloponnese, offering striking views of the Saronic Gulf. The town’s streets weave through Roman foundations, Byzantine churches, and a vibrant harbor area filled with tavernas and cafés.

Modern beaches, a rehabilitated marina, and easy day trips to nearby archaeological sites make it a comfortable base for exploring antiquity and coastal beauty.

Day Trips

Spend a day exploring around

day 1
Arrival in Kórinthos
morning
:

Arrive in Kórinthos and check into your hotel overlooking the stunning Corinthian Gulf. Take a leisurely stroll along the waterfront promenade to absorb the beautiful views and get a taste of local life. Enjoy a traditional Greek breakfast at a nearby café to kickstart your journey.

afternoon
:

Explore the ancient ruins of Ancient Corinth, where you can wander among the remnants of temples and theaters that date back centuries. Visit the Acrocorinth, a towering fortress that offers panoramic views of the surrounding landscape. Don’t forget to capture the essence of this historic site through photographs.

evening
:

Dine at a local taverna, savoring fresh seafood and local specialties under the stars. Immerse yourself in the lively atmosphere as traditional Greek music fills the air. End the night with a relaxing walk along the waterfront, where the lights of Kórinthos sparkle on the water.

day 2
Exploring Ancient Sites
morning
:

Start your day with a hearty breakfast before heading out to visit the Temple of Apollo, one of the most important monuments of Ancient Corinth. Take your time to admire the Doric columns and imagine the temple's former grandeur. Engage with a local guide to gain insight into the historical significance of the site.

afternoon
:

Visit the Archaeological Museum of Ancient Corinth to view artifacts that illustrate the rich history of the area. After your museum visit, explore the nearby village for authentic Greek dishes at a local eatery. Try the famous Kórinthos grape, a delicacy of the region known for its sweetness.

evening
:

As the sun sets, find a cozy spot by the water to watch the vibrant colors illuminating the sky. Experience a local festival or event, if coinciding with your visit, that showcases Kórinthos's rich cultural traditions. Finish the night with a nightcap at a bar overlooking the harbor.

Cost Guide

Prices

ItemPrice
🍔Meal at inexpensive restaurant$12-15
🍽️Three-course meal for two$40-60
Coffee$2-4
🚌Local transit ticket$1-2
🏨Mid-range hotel (per night)$70-120

Strengths and Weaknesses

  • Rich ancient history at a walkable, compact scale
  • Beautiful gulf-side scenery and straightforward day trips
  • Excellent seafood tavernas and hospitable locals
  • Good base for exploring the wider Peloponnese region
  • Smaller nightlife scene compared with larger Greek cities
  • Can be hot and busy in peak summer
  • Some smaller shops and markets may be cash-only
  • "Γεια σας" - Hello (formal)
  • "Kaliméra" - Good morning
  • "Efharistó" - Thank you
  • "Miláte Anglika?" - Do you speak English?
  • "Poús kosτίzei?" - How much does it cost?
  • "Nai / Óchi" - Yes / No
  • "Parakaló" - Please / You're welcome

Places to Visit in Kórinthos

Visit one of these nice places.

Acrocorinth Fortress

A dramatic hilltop fortress offering sweeping views over the town, the canal, and the Gulf of Corinth.

Ancient Corinth Archaeological Site

Ruins of the Temple of Apollo and the ancient agora set against olive groves and distant sea views.

Corinth Canal Viewpoint

The canal cut between the Saronic and Corinthian Gulfs; dramatic photos from the nearby bridge and terraces.

Old Town Streets

Narrow lanes, whitewashed walls, blue doors, and small squares ideal for atmospheric street photography.

Marina and Waterfront Promenade

Evening light on fishing boats and cafés provides candid, atmospheric shots over the water.

Culinary Guide

Food in Kórinthos

Korinthian cuisine blends the freshness of the sea with olive oil, herbs, and regional cheeses. Expect seafood-forward dishes, hearty eggplant and tomato flavors, and simple, rustic preparations served in tavernas and cafés along the waterfront.

Kórinthos Famous Food

Signature dishes, delicacies and famous food

Soutzoukakia Smyrneika

Smoky, cumin-spiked meatballs in a rich tomato sauce, often served with rice or potatoes.

Must-Try!

Grilled sardines

Freshly caught sardines simply grilled with lemon, oregano, and olive oil.

Kokkínisto

Slow-braised meat in tomato-based sauce with wine and herbs, a comforting staple.

Moussaka

Layered eggplant, potato, and ground meat baked with béchamel sauce.

Horta and fava with olive oil

Seasonal greens or fava beans dressed with olive oil and lemon, a light, traditional option.

Food Markets

Explore local food markets

Local Corinth Market

Weekly market in the Old Town where locals buy olives, cheeses, fresh produce, and seafood; great for picking up snacks and souvenirs.

Seaside stalls

Street-food counters along the marina offering quick grilled seafood, gyros, and small meze plates.

Climate Guide

Weather

Korinthos has a Mediterranean climate with hot, dry summers and mild, wetter winters. Average summer highs hover in the upper 80s to low 90s Fahrenheit (around 30–34°C), while winter temperatures are typically in the 40s to 60s Fahrenheit (5–15°C). Rainfall mostly occurs in the winter months, with long periods of sun in spring and autumn. Sea temperatures are comfortable for swimming from late spring through early autumn.

How to Behave

Tips on cultural norms and respectful behavior

Greetings and conversation

Greeks are warm and sociable; greet with a friendly 'Kalimera' (good morning) or 'Kalimnosta' and maintain eye contact while talking.

Dress and behavior

Dress modestly when visiting churches; avoid loud behavior in sacred sites; meals are often enjoyed with slow, relaxed pacing.

Safety Guide

Safety

Korinthos is typically safe for travelers, but standard precautions apply: watch valuables in crowded areas, be cautious at night near the marina, and use licensed taxis or ride-sharing. Road traffic can be busy during peak season, and some coastal roads are narrow; use route planning and allow extra time. Stay hydrated in the heat and use sun protection when outdoors.

Tipping in Kórinthos

Ensure a smooth experience

Tipping Etiquette

A small tip (5-10%) is common in restaurants if service is good; rounding up at cafés is appreciated but not required.

Payment Methods

Credit/debit cards are widely accepted in tourist areas; carry some cash for markets and smaller tavernas that may be cash-only.

Best Time to Visit

And what to expect in different seasons...

Spring

Mild temperatures, blooming flora, and comfortable days for walking and light hiking; occasional rain showers early in the season.

Summer

Hot, sunny days with clear skies; enjoy seaside activities, early morning sightseeing, and cooling swims by the gulf.

Autumn

Warm days tapering to cooler evenings; great for outdoor exploring without the peak-summer crowds.

Winter

Milder compared to northern Europe, but with cooler air and occasional rain; ideal for museum visits and scenic coastal walks.

Nightlife Guide

Kórinthos at Night

The nightlife in Korinthos is typically relaxed and seaside-focused, with family-friendly tavernas along the harbor offering tasting menus and occasional live music. In the summer, some bars and cafes by the marina host sunset gatherings and small performances, but the town generally emphasizes dining and daytime exploration over late-night clubbing.

Hiking in Kórinthos

Immerse in an unforgettable hike.

Acrocorinth Fortress Trail

Steep but rewarding climb to the hilltop fortress with panoramic views over the Gulf of Corinth.

Gulf coastal trails near Lechaio

Relaxed coastal paths with sea views and opportunities for short cliffside walks.

Vouraikos Gorge (Diakofto area)

Spectacular gorge hiking in the broader region, a longer day trip from Korinthos.

Airports

How to reach Kórinthos by plane.

Athens International Airport (ATH)

Major international hub about 1.5–2 hours by road/train from Korinthos, with frequent domestic connections and long-haul flights.

Araxos Airport (GPA)

Patras-based airport about 2–3 hours by road; serves limited international and domestic flights.

Getting Around

Walkability

Korinthos is highly walkable in the Old Town and harbor areas, with compact streets and scenic waterfront promenades. Some hills and fortress paths require moderate effort, but most highlights are accessible on foot. Public transportation is available, but for day trips a car or scooter rental offers the most flexibility.

Demographics

Explore demographics in this area.

Local Greeks

Residents of the town and surrounding region, including families in the Old Town and fishing communities along the coast.

Tourists

Visitors drawn to ancient ruins, seaside scenery, and weekend getaways from larger cities like Athens.

Seasonal expatriates

Some seasonal residents and short-term visitors who split time between the coast and inland areas.

Popular Sports

Explore popular sports in region.

Football (Soccer)

A popular pastime in the region with local clubs and community games.

Water sports

Swimming, sailing, and boating are common along the gulf and marina.

Transportation

Traffic

Traffic is generally manageable in town, with occasional peak-hour congestion near the marina and canal viewpoints. Public transport exists but is less frequent than in larger cities; renting a car or scooter gives the most flexibility for day trips around the Peloponnese.

Accomodations

Find the best place to stay when visiting Kórinthos.

Dietary Restrictions

Tips for restricted diets.

Vegetarian

Greek cuisine naturally features abundant vegetarian options—salads, beans, grilled vegetables, and feta; ask for vegetarian dishes or specify no meat in soups and stews.

Health & Medical

Healthcare

Healthcare is available in Corinth with public hospitals and private clinics; pharmacies are common in town. For emergencies, Greece’s public system provides access, and English-speaking staff are often available in larger facilities. Carry your European Health Insurance Card (EHIC) if applicable and have travel insurance for peace of mind.

Discover Greece

Read more in our Greece 2025 Travel Guide.

Greece Travel Guide