Top 10 places you must visit in the picturesque Peloponnese (See pics)

by Natasa Kremmyda

Peloponnese in Greece is known for its cultural riches and natural beauty.  A Peloponnesian tour will be a memorable travel experience for everyone who loves to visit amazing landscapes and combine pleasure with cultural enrichment. Here are the 10 must-see areas worth visiting in the region.

Epidaurus ancient theater

The stunning ancient theater of Epidaurus is an international attraction. It is the most well preserved ancient theater in the world known for its remarkable acoustics. The theater operates normally as it hosts the Athens Festival, which is the biggest festival in Greece. This summer- as every year – the theater of Epidaurus is presenting ancient Greek theater performances with English supertitles.

Ancient Corinth

The ruins of Ancient Corinth are an important archeological site which gave significant findings during the excavations. The ancient city is located 9 km southwest of Corinth, under the hill of Acrocorinth, where the citadel was located, and from where visitors could catch sight of the Acropolis in Athens.

Nafplio

Visit Nafplio town, walk through picturesque streets and visit those cute little stores that sell traditional products. In Nafplio you should also visit Bourtzi Castle and climb the 999 steps to Palamidi Castle!

Wineries in Nemea 

Nemea is one of the most famous wine regions in Greece. Visitors have the opportunity to visit the wineries and taste delicious Greek wine. Besides the wineries, visit the ruins of ancient Nemea, the museum and of course the temple and the ancient stadium.

Ancient Mycenae

Mycenae is a World Heritage Monument by UNESCO. Mycenae was founded between two tall conical hills, on a low plateau controlling both the land and sea routes. The greatest attractions in Mycenae are the archaeological museum and also the Mycenae Palace and the tombs.

Ancient Olympia

In western Peloponnese, in the beautiful valley of the Alpheios river, lies the most celebrated sanctuary of ancient Greece. Although secluded near the west coast of the Peloponnese, Olympia became the most important religious and athletic centre in Greece. Its fame rests on the Olympic Games, the greatest national festival and a highly prestigious one world-wide, which was held every four years to honor Zeus.

Diros Cave – Pirgos Dirou

A unique travel experience is offered to those who take the boat tour along the subterranean 1,600m-long river. The magic of the color, and the beautiful shapes, formed by the stalactites and stalagmites makes for a unique spectacle. The cave of Diros, is found 10 km from Gytheio and 5 km from the Pirgos Dirou.

Monemvasia

The name of this region means “the only entrance”. The ancient naval base of Minoans became one of the most important Peloponnese castles in the Middle Ages. Stone houses, mansions, and Byzantine churches still inspire Greeks and foreigners.

Methoni castle – Methoni

Methoni castle was one of the most important buildings in the Greek area during the Middle Ages. The castle is situated on the peninsula of Agios Nikolaos. Surrounded on three sides by sea, there is a small fort, Bourtzi, connected to the main castle with a stone bridge.

Mystras

Mystras reflects the 14th and 15th century of Byzantium. This is a mysterious and majestic Peloponnesian landscape.  Its wonderfully decorated churches still have the power to inspire awe to visitors after all these centuries.