The Peloponnese is the southern part of mainland Greece, which is surrounded by the Ionian Sea and the Saronic Gulf. It was turned into a peninsula artificially, thanks to the Gulf of Corinth. Consists of seven districts with a separate coastline: Achaia, Elijah, Messinia, Laconia, Arcadia, Argolis, Corinth.
Here, the mountainous terrain alternates with the plain. There are many green groves and fields on the peninsula. All this makes it green and attractive for tourists. The main city is Patras, which is located in the northern part. There are many monuments of ancient architecture on the Peloponnese peninsula, therefore there are hundreds of excursion routes. But there are also beautiful beaches.
Popular beach resorts in the Peloponnese
Kalamata
It is located in the southern part and is the main city of the Messinia region. It is called the capital of olives, as there are many olive groves. And the local oil is considered the best in Greece. Kalamata was ruled by the Spartans, Byzantium, Venetians, and the Ottoman Empire. This left its mark on architecture. Guests of the city can visit the fortress, ancient churches and monasteries, of which there are more than fifty. Also has a museum of weaving art.
Nafplio
In the 19th century it was the capital of Greece and here the first president, John Kapodistrias, was killed. Recently, a monument was erected in the city in his honor. Also here are the twin fortresses of Akronafplia and Palamidi. For beach lovers, there is a city pebble beach. There are also beaches nearby in Karatonas, Tolo. Local restaurants offer all kinds of national dishes. There are also many modern shops here.
Loutraki
This city is famous for its hydrotherapy centers. People from all over Europe come here for health improvement. There are also wonderful small-pebble beaches that have been awarded the EU blue flags many times. The resort is also famous for its picturesque lakes, beautiful bays, pine groves. Near Loutraki is the Corinth Canal, two monasteries. From the special observation deck next to the canal, you can enjoy the magnificent view and watch the passing ships.
Patras
Located on the shores of the Patraikos Gulf. It is the third largest city in Greece. There is a port here, thanks to which trade with Italy is carried out. The city is divided into upper and lower ones. And all the historical sites are located at the top. The main attraction of the resort is the ancient castle built in the 6th century. From the observation deck of the castle, magnificent views open up. Also in the city are the ancient Odeon, a large cathedral.
Pyrgos
Located in the west of the peninsula and is the capital of Elis. Pyrgos has beautiful sandy beaches that are well equipped for tourists. Among the sights it is worth noting the Temple of St. Nicholas, built in the 19th century, the Archaeological Museum, the Apollo Theater. There are many ancient monuments in the vicinity of Pyrgos.
Mortar
A seaside village at the foot of the Taygetos mountain range. It is surrounded on two sides by two sandy coves and olive groves. There are sandy and pebble beaches. It was in this place that the book of the famous Greek writer N. Kazantzakis "The Greek Zorba" was written. Also, guests will be interested to see numerous churches, a grotto cave, the Beaufort fortress, which is located on a hill with a magnificent view
Kardamili
It is a small town located on the south coast. It is surrounded on all sides by olive and cypress groves. There are many medieval buildings in Kardamili, which give it a special flavor. There is also a small port. Beach lovers should visit the beaches of Ritsa, Halikia, Salios, Kalamitsi. Among the sights, it is worth highlighting the Church of St. Spyridon, the Viros Gorge, the Prophet Elijah Mountain, the Diros Cave.
Tolo (Tolon)
Previously it was a small village, but now it is a picturesque village. All beaches are sandy and well equipped for tourists. Near Tolo there are many attractions for different tastes. In the neighboring city of Mycenae you can see the walls of the old Acropolis, and in the city of Sparta - the temple of Athena, an ancient theater.
Monemvasia
It is a walled city that has been inhabited since the Middle Ages. Divided into two parts: old and new. Monuments of ancient architecture are located in the old part of the city. Among the sights, it is worth highlighting the Church of Elkomenos with a bell tower of the 17th century, the Church of Hagia Sophia, which was built in the 12th century. There is also an Archaeological Museum located in a former mosque.
Porto Heli
Now this city is one of the favorite vacation spots of world stars, but earlier it was a small fishing village. The resort is located on the shores of the Porto Heli Bay. The beaches are wide and sandy. There are many marinas and small yacht ports along the coastline. There are no special attractions here, but there are many interesting places for tourists.
Finikunda
The city is located in a small bay. And if earlier they were engaged in collecting olives and fishing here, now everything here is built on the tourism business. In addition to beautiful sandy beaches, there are many historical attractions here. Not far from the city is the Byzantine fortress, Olympia, in which the Olympic Games were held in ancient times.
Yithion
Located in the southern part of the peninsula. On both sides, the city is surrounded by the Laconicos Gulf, the snowy peak of Mount Taygetus. In ancient times, a military base was located here, and the Roman theater has survived to this day. But there are other sights as well: Mavromikhali Square and the Tzanetbei Grirorakis Fortress, founded in the 19th century. The fortress is now a museum with various exhibitions.
Koroni
The city is located on a fortified cliff above the Gulf of Mesiniakos. Two local beaches, Zanga and Memi, stretch for 2 km and are perfectly clean. The main attraction of the city is the fortress, most of which is occupied by the Timiu Prodromou monastery, the chapels. The Church of the Most Holy Theotokos Panagia Elestriias is also popular among tourists.
Elafonisos
This resort is located on the shores of the Laconian Gulf. It is known for its white sandy beaches. The main ones are: Panagia, Simos, Sarakiniko. The fishing industry is well developed here, as many locals are engaged in fishing. Therefore, there are many taverns on the coast that serve seafood dishes. Also, tourists will be interested to see the Castro fortress, and diving fans - the sunken city of Pavlopetri.
Ermioni
This island city has always been famous for its seafood delicacies, so the local fish taverns are well worth a visit. The local beach is not very suitable for swimming, but there are more comfortable options within walking distance: Kuvertas, Sedoni, Medori, Petrofalassa. In this city there are attractions for every taste: the museum of children's toys, the Byzantine church of the Holy Trinity, Fermisias castle, the Limnokastro nature reserve.
Cyparissia
It is the main town of Trifilia, which is located at the foot of Mount Aigaleo. The golden sandy shores of this resort attract many tourists. It is divided into two parts: old and new. All major attractions are located in the old town. Tourists are invited to visit the Arcadia Castle, the Katsaros Park with a beautiful view of the sea, the Church of the Holy Trinity, the Church of the Virgin Mary. A special attraction is the source "Dionysias" with a mill, according to the scripture, it was here that Dionysus hit the ground with his staff.
Palea Epidavros
In the past it was a small village, but now it is gradually expanding and turning into a beautiful coastal town. The beach is small, but there is a large pier with boats. There are also picturesque bays for swimming. Excavations are still underway here, but one of the attractions is the classical era theater, which is used as a stage for festivals.
Xylokastron
The city is located on the shores of the Gulf of Corinth. Three landscapes unite here - sea, mountains, forest. And beautiful gardens complete the image. The central city beach is very clean. The Blue Flag award proves this. There are a lot of attractions in the city and its environs. Having been here, it is worth seeing the Pevkyas pine forest with 300-year-old pines, the Fonissa gorge.
Paralion Astros
A small and very quiet resort with a clean beach and a small port on the coast of the Gulf of Argolicos. Located in the eastern part of the peninsula. Of the sights, there is a small fortress built by the Venetians. It is located on a high hill with magnificent views.
Methoni
This coastal town is in Messinia. There is a clean, well-organized central bank. If you wish, you can visit other nearby beaches. Of the sights, tourists will be interested to see the Castro Metoni fortress, which is in good condition, the Church of the Transfiguration of the Savior. But it is also worth seeing the ruins of Ottoman mosques, antique Roman baths, Ilodisio area.
Pylos
Located on the coast of Navarina Bay. The port is also located here. This city is known for its beautiful sandy beaches. It is also worth visiting the beaches of Vaidokilia, Yalova, Glossa near the city. Among the historical sights it is worth noting the ruins of Nestor's palace, the Archaeological Museum, the fortresses of Paleokastro and Neokastro. And the heart of this city is the Three Admirals Square. There is a memorial monument to the victorious admirals.
Areopolis
It is part of the Laconia nome. There is a good sandy beach and a port near the town. And the most popular place among tourists and residents is the central square, where restaurants and shops are located. It was here that the revolution and the struggle against the Ottoman Empire began in the 19th century. And this made the city famous. Among the historical sites it is worth noting the churches of the Archangel, St. John the Baptist, as well as the Pikulakis tower.
Kyllini
The resort is famous for its thermal springs, beautiful beaches. There is also a port from which it is convenient to get to the islands of Zakynthos, Kefalonia. The city is also known for its unique climate. It combines medicinal sea air with coniferous, as the unique pine forests have been preserved. Having been here, it is worth seeing the Chlemutsi fortress, which offers a magnificent view of the sea. You can also visit the rocky island of Kafkalida, the Vlaherena monastery.
Leonidion
It is the main city in South Kynuria. Located between Myrtoo Bay and the foot of Mount Parnonas. In the summer, an annual eggplant festival is held here, so famous chefs come here. And beach lovers will be able to appreciate the beauty of the bay's beaches. In and around the city, there are many temples and churches built several centuries ago. Among them are the churches of the Archangels, the Prophet Elijah, St. Paraskeva, St. Catherine.
Costa Navarino
A luxury resort with eco-friendly beaches. Located in the region of Messinia in the southwest of the peninsula. The most popular beach in Yalova is located in a protected area. Here you can not only swim in the sea, but also watch pink flamingos. Near the city are the ruins of the palace of Nestor, the temple of Apollo, the monastery of Andromonastirio. You can also visit Voidokilia Bay. There is a golf academy in the city and international tournaments are often held here.
Naples
It is located in the area of Laconia and was formerly called Vatica. The resort is renowned for its scenic Blue Flag beach. Its embankment is the heart of the city. There are taverns, bars, clubs, souvenir shops here. The city has a well-developed tourist infrastructure. Guests are recommended to visit the petrified forest, Little Athos, the natural park, the Vatican castle. It is also worth seeing the Gulf of Elijah the Prophet. The sunken Atlantis is believed to be here.
Galatas
This is an urban-type settlement located opposite the Poros port. It is part of the municipality of Trizina, although it belongs to Attica. Its embankment offers a magnificent view of Poros, where ferries and small ships go. The resort has clean and well-equipped beaches: Plaka, Aliki, Artimo, Lemonodasos. Guests are invited to visit the archaeological area with the acropolis, the Aderes mountain range, which offers a magnificent view.
Methane
It is a small island located in the Saronic Gulf, next to the port of Piraeus. There are 32 active volcanoes recorded here, and the resort is famous for its thermal springs. The volcanic spas located here are considered the best in Greece. During your vacation, it is worth visiting the picturesque villages of Kameni Chora, Agios Georgios. Archaeological parks have also been found here, but exhibits are kept in the Archaeological museums of the peninsula.
Zakharo
Located in the west of the peninsula in the Elis region. The local sandy beach is about 60 km long and is considered one of the cleanest in Europe. It is surrounded by olive and pine groves. Tourists are invited to visit the thermal springs of Lake Caiaphas, Ancient Olympia, where the Olympic Games originated. There are many archaeological sites around the resort. The Olive Festival is held here in summer.
Skafidya
A picturesque coastal village in the west of the peninsula. It is surrounded by hills with olive and orange groves. There is a beautiful picturesque beach here. Nearby is the oldest temple of the peninsula - the monastery of the Mother of God. This structure looks more like a fortress. There are no other attractions here, but it is very easy to book tours to get acquainted with the historical sites of the peninsula.
