Cradled by the sapphire waters of the Aegean and Ionian seas, the Peloponnese is a timeless escape where myth, mountains, and Mediterranean charm converge. This sun-drenched peninsula in southern Greece is steeped in legends, from the tales of Hercules to the battlegrounds of Sparta, and dotted with ancient ruins, Byzantine towns, and unspoiled beaches. Whether you’re drawn by its dramatic coastlines or its deep-rooted history, the Peloponnese offers a journey through the very soul of Greece.
Don’t miss
- Ancient Epidaurus: Wander through one of the best-preserved theatres of the ancient world.
- Mystras: Explore this haunting Byzantine citadel nestled in the Taygetos mountains.
- Monemvasia: Discover a medieval fortress town carved into a rock and brimming with romance.
- Voidokilia Beach: Relax on one of Greece’s most photogenic crescents of sand.
- Nemea wine region: Sip your way through storied vineyards producing some of Greece’s finest reds.
Culinary culture
The Peloponnese is a feast of rustic flavours and age-old traditions. Olive oil flows like gold, particularly from Kalamata, and is at the heart of every meal. Try hearty dishes like kokkinisto (meat in red sauce) and lagoto (rabbit stew), or sample sfela, the local “grilled feta.” Farmers’ markets overflow with figs, honey, and handmade pastas, while seaside tavernas serve fresh catch with a splash of ouzo.
Dive deeper
Beyond the marquee sites lie hidden gems: the cliff-hanging monasteries of Arcadia, the stone villages of Mani with their tower houses, and traditional festivals celebrating everything from chestnuts to Carnival with music and dance.
Good to know
The euro is the local currency. Spring and autumn offer the best weather and fewer crowds. Renting a car is the easiest way to explore the region’s mountainous terrain and remote coastal gems.