The Peloponnese, a peninsula in southern Greece, is steeped in history, wealth of culture and breathtaking landscapes. This beautiful region is home to a wealth of sights that will take you back to ancient Greece and introduce you to the timeless beauty of the Mediterranean. Most travellers know Greece mainly through its various Greek islands, but I can assure you that the mainland is also worth visiting. It is a holiday destination where the authentic character of the ancient Greek villages can still be truly felt.
In this blog, we will take you on a virtual journey through some of the top attractions the Peloponnese has to offer. Get ready for an adventure full of historical treasures, picturesque landscapes, great food and some of the most beautiful beaches in Greece.
Discovering historical treasures in the Peloponnese, Greece
Visit Olympia, birthplace of the Olympic Games
Visit the ruins of the ancient stadium, the temple complex and the museum filled with artefacts dating back to the glory days of the Games. Let your imagination run wild as you imagine how athletes competed in the same arena thousands of years ago. You can also visit the place where the Olympic flame is still lit. If you want to know more about what things were like during the first Olympic Games, I would definitely recommend a guide.
Practical tips:
- Provide plenty of water
- Protect yourself from the sun, there is no shade in the old arena
- Wear a cap or hat
Travelling back in time in Mystras
Mystras, a UNESCO world heritage site. This abandoned Byzantine city offers spectacular views, impressive ruins and beautiful churches. Explore the narrow streets, admire the frescoes and feel the mystical atmosphere of this enchanted place.
Explore Epidaurus' ancient theatre
For lovers of ancient architecture and theatre, Epidaurus is a must-see. The ancient theatre of Epidaurus is known for its perfect acoustics and is still used for performances. Stroll through the sanctuary of Asklepios and admire its well-preserved temples and columns.
Stroll through Nafplio's cosy streets
Tucked away on the coast of the Argolic Gulf is charming Nafplio, an atmospheric city steeped in history. Stroll the cobbled streets, admire the Venetian and neoclassical architecture and visit the impressive Palamidi Fortress for breathtaking views over the city and the sea.
Stroll through the medieval fortified town of Monemvasia
Enter an enchanted world through the gates of Monemvasia, a medieval fortified town on a rocky peninsula. Explore the cobbled streets, discover hidden churches and enjoy panoramic views of the Aegean Sea. A walk through Monemvasia feels like a trip back in time.
Best beaches of the Peloponnese, Greece
Besides all these impressive sights, the Peloponnese also has some fantastic beaches. The advantage is that it is not at all as crowded as the Greek islands. Did you know that the second most beautiful beach in Greece can be found here?
Admire Voidokilia Beach, the second most beautiful beach in Greece
Voidokilia Beach is an enchanting beach located on the western coast of the Peloponnese in Greece. The beach is known worldwide for its extraordinary beauty, its crescent-shaped bay and crystal-clear turquoise waters.
The beach gets its name from its shape, which resembles the letter "omega" (Ω) from the Greek alphabet. It is considered one of the most beautiful beaches in Greece and attracts many visitors from all over the world every year.
Bird watching at Gialova Lagoon
We took a cycling tour from Costa Navarino with Navarino Outdoors to Gialova Lagoon. A very nice experience to cycle among the olive trees. Considering we were still travelling off-season in the Peloponnese, it was not particularly crowded and not too hot yet.
The Gialova lagoon is known for its rich bird life and is an important stopover for migratory birds during their migrations. It is home to more than 270 bird species, including rare and endangered species such as flamingos, pelicans, cormorants and sea eagles. Bird lovers can enjoy observing these beautiful birds in their natural habitat.
Enjoy a seafront terrace in Kalamata
The coastal town of Kalamata is special because it has so much to offer, connecting the mountains with the sea and also having a cosy city centre.
From Kalamata, it is also perfectly possible to take a number of day cruises.
Arkoudi Beach
Cosy, small-scale beach with particularly shallow water. Very suitable for small children and families. The sand there is soft, the water has only small waves and the slope from the beach to the sea is very low. Moreover, there are no sea urchins to be found.
Greek cuisine in the Peloponnese
Greek cuisine is one of the most famous in the world and therefore has a lot to offer. It is a healthy Mediterranean cuisine (if you don't order too many fried things).
7 specialities from the Peloponnese
Olive oil: in Kalamata you find the world-famous Kalamata olives and olive oil.
Mavrodaphne: a nice sweet wine, very suitable as a dessert wine or to pair with cheese. Other good Greek wines: Nemea Palivou Estate: Terra Leone (red) or Kydonista (white) or Thea Mantinia Semeli presented here by Unstoppable Stacey!
Lamb: The Peloponnese is known for its succulent and flavourful lamb. It is often prepared on the grill or in the oven with herbs such as oregano, garlic and lemon. Try a traditional dish such as "kokkinisto arni" (braised lamb) or "paidakia" (grilled lamb chops).
Feta and other cheeses: Greek feta salad is of course world-famous but did you know that the Peloponnese produces one of the best feta cheeses? Other delicious cheeses from the region include Graviera and Kefalotyri
Delicious Mezedes, served as an appetiser with the aperitif such as Tzatziki (yoghurt with cucumber and garlic).
Fish and seafood: Located on the coast, the Peloponnese offers an abundance of fresh fish and seafood. Enjoy grilled fish, fried squid, mussels in tomato sauce or a hearty fish soup called "kakavia". The taste of the seafood is unequalled and makes for a delicious culinary experience.
Honey and nuts: the most famous honey from the Peloponnese is pine nut honey. Delicious almonds and walnuts are also typical Peloponnese products.
Greek islands hopping from the Peloponnese
So if you do want to pick up a Greek island while visiting the Peloponnese, these islands are the most obvious:
1. Hydra: a picturesque island known for its charming port town and authentic Greek atmosphere. The island is also known for its ban on motorised traffic, making it an ideal place to relax and enjoy the traditional atmosphere.
2. Spetses: located near Hydra, Spetses also offers charming surroundings and a relaxed atmosphere. The island is known for its elegant mansions, quaint streets and beautiful beaches. It is a great destination to enjoy the sun and the sea.
3. Poros: this small island is easily accessible from the Peloponnese. The island has a rich history and offers beautiful landscapes, including forested hills and lovely beaches. The town of Poros is charming and lively, with cosy waterfront cafés and taverns.
4. Kythira: Although not as close to the Peloponnese as the other islands mentioned, Kythira is worth visiting if you are interested in exploring lesser-known islands. Kythira has pristine nature, picturesque villages and beautiful beaches. It also has an interesting mix of architectural influences, having historically been under Venetian, Byzantine and Ottoman rule.
All these islands can be reached by ferry from the Peloponnese. Please note that ferry services depend on the season and schedules may change. It is advisable to check current timetables and availability in advance. Island hopping from the Peloponnese allows you to enjoy both the mainland and the beautiful islands of Greece.
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