Best Things to Do in Monemvasia, Greece

See Also

• Top-rated hotels in the town of Monemvasia
• Highest-Rated Eateries in Monemvasia
• Top hotels in Nafplio
• Peloponnese Travel Guide
• Mainland Greece Travel Primer

Monemvasia Basics

• Monemvasia is an enchanting and romantic Byzantine fortress town in southeastern Peloponnese dating back to the sixth century AD, and the longest continually occupied citadel in Europe. Driving to Monemvasia from Athens takes approximately 4 hours, with most of the route along well-maintained highways. There are multiple daily bus routes connecting Monemvasia to Athens or Sparti.
• A causeway connects the historic core (Kastro) of Monemvasia to the mainland and the modern town of Gefyra. It`s a 20-minute trek between Gefyra and Kastro. There are no vehicles permitted within Kastro, though cars can travel completely to the castle entrance to drop off passengers. Limited parking is available alongside the causeway and the road leading to the castle gate, and a sizable free parking area is situated to the right as one approaches the causeway. A shuttle bus runs between the start of the causeway and the Kastro gate entrance from 8am to 11pm every 30 minutes during summer (until mid-afternoon in winter) and costs €1.10. The fare for a taxi between Gefyra and Monemvasia Kastro is roughly €4.
• Highly Recommended Monemvasia Excursions: Tour of an Historic Estate including Wine and Olive Oil Tastings plus Dinner • Sea Kayaking Tour of Monemvasia
• Highly Recommended Tours to Monemvasia from Athens: Exploring Sparta, Mystras, and Monemvasia (2 Day) Highlights of the Peloponnese (5 Day)
• Top-rated lodging in Monemvasia: Kinsterna Inn – Moni Emvasis Luxurious Suites – Likinia Hotel
• Highly Recommended Eateries in Monemvasia: Chrisovoulo • Voltes • To Kanoni

10 Best Things to Do in Monemvasia, Greece

The absolute best way to spend time in Monemvasia is simply wandering the winding, cobbled lanes of Kastro (Old Town), enjoying the island’s rich history and scenic views of the fortress and sea. It acts very much like an open-air museum, with signs everywhere including area maps and historical descriptions of Kastro’s unique architecture and its numerous churches. You’re guaranteed to get lost at least once, though every minute will be delightful. Here are a few other experiences not to miss to fully experience all Monemvasia offers.

1. Hike to Upper Town

The historic citadel of Monemvasia divides into a lower and upper sector. Below, historic castle structures have been renovated into contemporary hotels, shops, and eateries providing visitors modern accommodations. Above sits the now-vacant upper town once home to impressive residences and the awe-inspiring 12th century Agia Sofia Byzantine church, a seminal Greek religious site.

It takes approximately half an hour to hike to the central gate located in the upper town of Monemvasia. Multiple access points to the stone path below can be found, but the easiest starting point is across from the bell tower along Kastro`s main road. Much of the centuries-old stone pathway is steep and slippery, so comfortable shoes are recommended, in addition to moving at a safe pace while walking and bringing water. Upon arriving at the top, exploration of fascinating ruins as well as breathtaking views over Monemvasia and the Myrtoan Sea await as rewards.

Agia Sofia is accessible to guests on chosen days that change all through the year, generally Tuesday to Sunday from 8:30am-3:30pm. Ask at the Archaeological Collection in the fundamental square what opening timings are during your visit.

2. Swim at the Portello

Monemvasia`s southern fortified entrance directly faces the sea in a unique configuration known as the Portello. Initially utilized as a maritime point of access to the fortress, it now serves as a welcome respite in swimming or when the citadel`s defenses are intensely heated under summer`s rays.

Water near the Portello can become choppy along the rocky edge; there is a ladder that can be used to lower oneself into the water before swimming out where it calms slightly. It provides a refreshing place to swim though perhaps not for younger children. The Portello located roughly midway along the southern seawall downhill from the church in the main square, can be found with signs directing to πορτέλλο.

3. Monemvasia Archaeological Collection

This small but informative museum, situated in the central square of Monemvasia`s fortress-like old town, has functioned through history as a place of worship, incarceration and hospitality. Its curated collection of local artifacts and relics aid in recounting the community`s development and interaction beyond its fortified walls. Housed within a structure holding varied roles, visitors may glimpse into the past within its intimate space, making the nominal entry cost worthwhile.

Operation hours: Open from 8:30am to 3:30pm. Closed on Tuesdays. General admission is €2; reduced admission is €1. Website

4. Yiannis Ritsos House

Nestled within the historic castle grounds resides the former dwelling of renowned Greek poet Yiannis Ritsos. Internationally acclaimed for his poetic works and recipient of prestigious awards from Greece and abroad, Ritsos was born and raised on the island of Monemvasia, which featured prominently as a setting in several of his poems. By his own description, Ritsos affectionately regarded the rocky island as a “stone ship” floating upon the sea

Today closed to visitors, the house is simply marked with a plaque and bronze bust of the artist, but plans seek to restore and open a museum. Find after entering the castle`s first left turn, and climbing upstairs.

5. Local Food & Wine Tastings

The Monemvasia region produces several unique and delicious food items, such as wine (the local sweet Malvasia wine was referenced in three Shakespeare plays – “drown me in a barrel of Malvasia wine,” Richard III), honey mead, homemade liqueurs and preserves, almond flour cookies, and local olive oil and honey. Here are the top places to sample them.

• Edodimopolio: Situated on Kastro’s main street, stocking a wide assortment of local edible items as well as cosmetic and skincare products. Advance bookings recommended for optimal sampling experience.
• To Kelari: Just across from Edodimopolio on the main promenade, To Kelari (The Storage room) is a cozy store that’s filled from floor to ceiling with wine, preserves, liqueurs, and sweet treats. The friendly managers are happy to organize an examination for you.
• Byron’s Wine Kamera: This charming little wine bar serves many local grape varieties and is located down narrow lanes below Kastro’s main square. It is generally open daily from 6pm or earlier by booking (+30 697 437 0964).
• Monemvasia Winery: Established in 1997 focused on producing and promoting local grape varieties. It is located 15 minutes from Kastro by car. Tours and tastings are offered Tuesday to Saturday from 10am to 4pm.
• The Liotrivi Estate is a spacious property and historic boutique hotel (previously the summer home of poet Yiannis Ritsos), producing and selling excellent olive oil, wine, and preserves. Located a 20-minute drive from Kastro, Liotrivi offers an excellent tour & tasting package that includes a delicious meal – and transportation from the castle.

6. Monemvasia Lighthouse

Just beyond the eastern edge of the settlement lies an operating lighthouse dating back to 1896 that is well-maintained. Adjacent to the lighthouse is a small museum dedicated to the history of Greek naval lighthouses, containing information presented in both Greek and English languages. It is worth taking the short walk out there, not only for photographic opportunities but also to admire the magnificent sea views.

Opening hours: Wednesday to Sunday 9am-1pm & 6pm-8pm May through September; Tuesday to Saturday 9am-2pm October through April. Admission is by voluntary contribution.

Continuing beyond the lighthouse will guide you to the starting point of a hiking trail around the island. The first section of the trail, surrounding the island’s eastern tip, is very rocky and not clearly marked, so this route is best reserved for experienced hikers.

7. Shop the Main Street

Dotted throughout the pedestrian promenade at the heart of Monemvasia`s medieval borough are about a dozen specialty shops selling unique, locally crafted gifts well-suited for keepsakes. Notable boutiques offer handmade goods showcasing regional traditions.

• Malva Gallery: Showroom of an artist from Piraeus who has called Monemvasia home since 1992. Their works incorporate intricate stippling and vivid colors; Monemvasia the renowned City is particularly iconic. Original creations, fine art prints, and posters are available for purchase.

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• Cantine del Vino già Schiavi (AKA Al Bottegon, local favorite for cicchetti and wine, a little chaotic and a lot of fun)

The stylish Niove Boutique offers handcrafted women`s fashion from Greek designers

8. Kinsterna Experiences

The historical estate Kinsterna, located approximately a 15-minute drive south of Kastro amidst 25 serene acres of organic gardens, vineyards, and olive and citrus groves, is home to a magnificent 5-star resort hotel, and provides a wide range of cultural experiences that are open to guests and non-guests alike. Options include year-round activities like cooking and bread-baking classes, honey harvest, and horseback riding, as well as participatory seasonal events during the wine and olive harvest. Contact [email protected] to book. • Website

9. Nearby Beaches

There’s no beach area in Kastro to speak of, but there are plenty of good ones (and a couple excellent ones) that can be reached by foot or vehicle.

• Monemvasia Beach: This slender and tiny pebbled stretch of pale-colored shoreline is situated near the causeway in Gefyra. There are no beach loungers available for rental here, but a few excellent seaside cafes line the coast during summer months. Surf can be rough when winds are strong. Superb panoramic vista of Monemvasia. • Map

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• Pori Beach: Thoroughly and peaceful blue-flag sandy shoreline a few kilometers north of Monemvasia. At times there are sunshades for lease in the summer, as well as a shore café for snacks and refreshments. • Map
• Elafonisos Island: This tiny nearby island, accessible via a 15-minute boat transport from Pounta is renowned for its Caribbean-reminiscent golden sandy beaches, particularly Sarakiniko, Panagia, and Simos – deemed one of the most beautifully scenic coastlines in the Mediterranean Sea. It requires 40 minutes or less to drive to Pounta along the newly constructed roadway that bypass the mountainous switchbacks. (Google Map`s predefined route will take twice as long.)
• Plitra: Organized sandy beach on the opposite side of the peninsula, with calm, crystal clear waters that are great for families. 40 minutes from Monemvasia by car. • Map

The hotel website • Check prices for

10. Best Day Trips from Monemvasia

• Asian-Pacific Festival – This event celebrating Asian-Pacific American culture held in Japantown during the first weekend of August, includes live musical and cultural performances, tasty foods from Asian-Pacific countries and San Francisco delights, Asian artisans, music, a variety of exhibits and more.
• Elafonisos Island: Small island located in the Peloponnese region of Greece that is renowned for its beaches resembling those found in the Caribbean, accessible via a 15-minute ferry from Pounta. You can drive to the ferry dock in roughly 40 minutes or possibly twice as long if following the suggested route on Google Maps, or reserve a private half-day tour and simply relax during the trip.
• Kastania Cave: Remarkable cave approximately 3 million years old packed with an abundance of engaging stalactites, stalagmites, and other formations. Half-hour tours are provided all day long by highly knowledgeable staff. Please check the website for opening hours – which are only on weekends during winter months. About an hour’s drive from Monemvasia via the New Road to Neapoli.
• Switching of the Protectors: It’s a spectacle for visitors, it’s a performance, and it’s unfortunate to miss seeing it. The building housing the legislature on Syntagma Square maintains two permanent guards keeping watch, switching every hour on the hour, with new guards taking their place. Visit on Sunday at 11am for the complete exhibition including elaborate costumes and a marching ensemble. • Map
• Mystras: Around an hour and a half driving distance north of Kastro, this abandoned Byzantine town and fortress is also a remarkable UNESCO World Heritage Site. Get insight into its history and unique architecture (and let someone else handle the driving) on a private half-day guided tour from Monemvasia.