Peloponnese: Land of Heroes and Legends

Wander through ancient cities, medieval fortresses, and charming villages.

The Peloponnese rises from southern Greece with a landscape of rugged mountains, fertile valleys, and sweeping coastlines. Ancient sites like Mycenae, Epidaurus, and Olympia stand as markers of civilizations that shaped Europe. Charming towns and villages, from Nafplio to Monemvasia, reveal traditional architecture, local crafts, and regional cuisine, connecting travelers to everyday Greek life. Between archaeological wonders and coastal vistas, the region offers a balance of exploration and reflection. Winding roads and hidden trails invite discovery, while local markets and tavernas provide a taste of the region’s character. The Peloponnese is a place where history, landscape, and culture converge—perfect for travelers seeking both insight and experience.

A Glimpse of Peloponnese’s Heritage & Landscapes

At a Glance

Location: Southern Greece, connected to mainland via the Isthmus of Corinth, crossed by the Corinth Canal.

Regions & Highlights: Corinth, Nafplio, Mycenae, Epidaurus, Olympia, Mani, Monemvasia, and scenic coastal areas.

Geography: Mountains, fertile plains, coastline, and archaeological treasures.

Climate & Best time to visit: Mediterranean. Spring and early autumn are ideal for sightseeing, summer for beaches and coastal activities. Winter is quieter and still possible for historical exploration.

Exploring the Peloponnese: To see the main highlights, including ancient sites, coastal towns, mountains, and beaches, plan for approximately 7–10 days.

Historical & Culture

Ancient Civilizations: Home to Mycenaean Greece, Olympia, and classical sites that shaped Western history. Temples, theaters, and citadels reflect the region’s historical significance.

Medieval & Venetian Influence: Fortresses, palaces, and coastal towns showcase Byzantine, Frankish, and Venetian heritage. Nafplio, Monemvasia, and the Mani Peninsula preserve medieval architecture.

Modern Era: Peloponnese towns played key roles in the Greek War of Independence and continue to preserve local traditions, crafts, and culinary heritage.

Cultural Highlights: Festivals, local markets, and artisanal products reflect the region’s living traditions and offer insight into daily life

Visiting Peloponnese & Things to Do

Ancient Sites: Mycenae, Epidaurus, Olympia, and Corinth offer temples, theaters, and historic landmarks.

Scenic Towns: Nafplio, Monemvasia, and Kalamata feature traditional architecture, coastal views, and local markets.

Nature & Hiking: Taygetos mountains, Mani trails, and coastal paths provide panoramic views and outdoor adventure.

Beaches & Coastal Villages: Elafonisos, Voidokilia, Stoupa, Kardamili, Gythio, and Mavrovouni.

Hidden Gems: Secluded coves along the eastern Peloponnese coast, small bays near Monemvasia, and lesser-known beaches in Lakonia.

Local Experiences: Taste Kalamata olives and olive oil as signature local products that hold PDO status, spetzofai, bougatsa, galaktoboureko, Metsovone & feta cheeses, slow-cooked kavourmas, and local wines and honey.

Visitor Tips: Sites open roughly 8:00–19:00 in summer; shorter hours in winter. 

Choose Comfort in Our Hand-Picked Hotels in Nafplio, Peloponnese

Impero Luxury Suites Nafplio
★★★

Impero Luxury Suites Nafplio

Spiliadou N., Nafplio

No reviews available for this hotel yet.
King Othon
★★★

King Othon

Farmakopoulou 4, Nafplio

No reviews available for this hotel yet.
Grande Bretagne

Grande Bretagne

Filellinon Square, Nafplion port, Nafplio

No reviews available for this hotel yet.
Nafsimedon Hotel
★★★★

Nafsimedon Hotel

Sideras Merarxias 9, Nafplio

No reviews available for this hotel yet.
Park Hotel
★★★

Park Hotel

1 Dervenakion Str, Nafplio

Fantastic 1 reviews
9.2
Pension Dafni

Pension Dafni

10 Fotomara, Nafplio

No reviews available for this hotel yet.
Amymone and Adiandi
★★★

Amymone and Adiandi

Othonos 31, Nafplio

No reviews available for this hotel yet.
Athena Hotel
★★

Athena Hotel

Staikopoulou 11 & Koletti Str, Nafplio

No reviews available for this hotel yet.
Liberty Hotel of Nafplio
★★★★

Liberty Hotel of Nafplio

Sidiras Merarchias, Nafplio

No reviews available for this hotel yet.
Opal Executive Suites
★★★

Opal Executive Suites

Evaggelistrias 1, Nafplio

No reviews available for this hotel yet.

Choose from the handpick stays in Nfplio, or got to search bar to find your perfect accommodation across Peloponnese.

More Local Experiences

Kalamata’s Beer Company, Kalamata, Laconia: Microbrewery offering craft beers like Sura Blonde Ale, Kalamata Lager, and Dreamville IPA. Guided tastings available.

Mercouri Estate, Nemea, Corinthia: Historic winery established in 1864, with wine tastings and tours showcasing traditional winemaking practices.

Taverna Drosopigi, Areopoli, Mani: Hidden gem serving authentic Peloponnesian dishes with stunning views.

Local Delicacies: Kalamata olives and olive oil, spetzofai (sausages in pepper-tomato sauce), gourounopoula (slow-roasted pork), and lalagia (fried dough rings).

Olive Oil Tastings: Venus Olive Oil in Kalamata offers high-quality extra-virgin olive oil and local insights.

Local Markets: Visit Kalamata, Nafplio, and Sparta markets for fresh produce, olives, honey, herbs, and handmade crafts.

Hiking & Nature: Taygetos Mountains, Polilimnio Waterfalls, Neda Waterfalls, and Vouraikos Gorge are perfect for nature walks and adventure.

Transportation: Renting a car is recommended for reaching remote villages, beaches, and mountain areas.

Peloponnese Olives and Wine