The Corinth Canal is an artificial waterway about 6.3 km long, cut straight through the Isthmus of Corinth to link the Gulf of Corinth (Ionian side) with the Saronic Gulf (Aegean) and separate the Peloponnese from mainland Greece. Completed in 1893, its near-vertical rock walls rise up to about 90 m above a channel only ~21 m wide, making it one of Greece's most photographed feats of engineering. After a long closure caused by landslides from 2021, it fully reopened to navigation on 17 June 2026 following slope-stabilisation works, reviving canal cruises and bungee jumping. Most visitors take it in from the viewpoint on the old national-road bridge, looking down at the gorge and the vessels threading through it.
The sheer rock-walled gorge and narrow blue channel seen from the old road bridge
Yachts and small cruise ships transiting in single-direction convoys
The submersible bridges at Isthmia and Poseidonia that sink underwater to let ships pass
Bungee jumping from the footbridge about 80 m above the water (Zulu Bungy, running since 2003)
The site's long history of isthmus-crossing attempts (including Emperor Nero's dig) and its 19th-century engineering legacy
Good to know
SafetyThe viewing bridge sits right next to live road traffic and the railings drop away to a sheer fall of tens of metres. Never climb the railing or step into the road for a photo, and if you bungee, confirm the operator's safety briefing and insurance.
SeasonIn July and August the Peloponnese can be extremely hot with almost no shade at the bridge, so bring a hat, water and sun protection. Cruise and bungee operations vary by season and weather, so check the latest schedule.
RulesBungee jumps and canal cruises can sell out in peak season, so book online in advance. The submersible bridges close to road and foot traffic whenever a ship passes, so allow extra time.
MannersThis is a working waterway and a roadside viewpoint, not an enclosed attraction. Avoid risky behaviour on the railings and excessive noise, and keep clear of other people's passage.
CautionSimply viewing the canal from the bridge is free. Be wary of anyone demanding an 'entrance fee' or overcharging for parking, and confirm and pay tour or bungee prices only through official channels.
SafetyFor taxis or day tours from Athens, agree on the meter or a fixed fare beforehand, and watch your belongings around the crowded bridge and car park.
Practical info
The canal is about 80 km west of Athens (a 1.5-2 hour drive) via the tolled Olympia Odos motorway, by KTEL intercity bus to Corinth, or by Athens suburban rail to Corinth followed by a short taxi ride. Viewing from the bridge is free at any time, while canal cruises and bungee jumping are separately ticketed and booked, so always confirm current hours, prices and seasonal operation.
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