Classics School Trip To Tolon

This idyllic resort, not far from Nafplio and Epidavros, can provide a welcome bit of rest and recreation in between touring the historical sites of the area. The long sandy beach faces a wide bay dotted with islets and fringed with the mountains of the peninsula to the east, with boat trips available. Photo © Moriya Halon.

The original capital of Greece, nestling on the coast of the Argolic Gulf, Nafplio boasts three castles for students of ancient civilisation to explore. They can learn the story of the Venetian fortress of Bourtzi, set out in the harbour to protect the city from invaders. Enjoy the pretty town’s ancient walls and Ottoman fountains.

As Greece’s dominant city for 500 years, there’s a wealth of opportunity for educational tours in Mycenae. Witness the monumental Lions Gate and the Necropolis and discover the amazing findings of the archaeological digs that have taken place here.

When your students hear the quality of the acoustics at Epidavros, they’ll be blown away. Drop a coin in the centre of this astounding theatre to demonstrate just how good they are. Then discuss the architectural skills and importance of theatre in Greek society. Photo © Andrew Baldwin.

An educational tour to the ancient ruins of Olympia will help your students understand the importance of the first Olympic Games, held in honour of Zeus. Marvel at colossal statues, ruined temples and resplendent villas, bringing to life the words and pictures from textbooks. A tour of the site sparks enquiries into architectural styles and classical history.

Visit heavily fortified Mystras on your educational tour to the Peloponnese, and discover the importance of defence in the construction of ancient settlements. The town was a prosperous Byzantine capital in the 14th and 15th centuries, but remained inhabited throughout the Ottoman period, when it was mistaken by Western travellers for ancient Sparta.

The town of Sparta lies at the heart of the Evrotas Valley, surrounded by olive and citrus groves. Steeped in myths and legends, it is a must-visit stop on your classical studies trip to the Peloponnese. Discover thousands of Spartan relics, dating from the Neolithic age to the late Roman period, at the town’s fascinating archaeological museum.

Visit the ruins of the hill fort that was one of the most important centres of the Mycenaean world. The Ancient Greeks believed that the walls were built by the cyclops – because only giants of superhuman strength could have lifted the enormous stones. Students can view the remains of the palace complex and hear the legends of Hercules linked to the site. Photo © Alun Salt.

Boasting ancient baths, the Temple of Hephaestus and a collection of Roman remains, a visit to ancient Corinth is a chance for students to expand their appreciation of the classical world. Visit the deep and narrow Corinth canal, which so many ancient rulers attempted – and failed – to build. Neolithic pottery suggests that the site of Corinth was occupied from at least as early as 6500 BC.