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Sparta Travel Guide

Last Updated: November 30, 2023

Sparta was the ancient rival of Athens, known for its fierce warriors and military culture (as showcased in the historically inaccurate movie 300 ). These days, the city doesn’t get the visitors Athens does but it does still have a lot of ruins to explore.

While Sparta is much smaller than Greece’s capital, there is no shortage of things to do, excursions to take, and places to eat when you visit.

It’s an often-overlooked city (most travelers skip this entire area as it’s out of the way) but you can get all the history of Greece without the tourists of Athens if you visit. The city is small and you only really need a couple of nights to check it all out. If you have a couple of extra days, it’s worth the drive or bus ride from Athens — especially if you’re a history buff.

This travel guide to Sparta can help you plan your trip so you can make the most of your trip to this underrated region without breaking the bank!

Table of Contents

• Things to See and Do
• Typical Costs
• Suggested Budget
• Money-Saving Tips
• Where to Stay
• How to Get Around
• How to Stay Safe
• Best Places to Book Your Trip
• Related Blogs on Sparta

Top 5 Things to See and Do in Sparta

1. See the King Leonidas Statue

King Leonidas was one of the most famous kings of ancient Sparta, known for his defiant stand against the Persians at Thermopylae in 480 BCE. Technically named The Memorial in Thermopylae, it recognizes not only King Leonidas but the legendary 300 soldiers that fought along with him. Located in front of a soccer stadium, this statue is a testament to the fading glory of the Spartan legacy.

2. Visit the Archaeological Museum of Sparta

One of Greek’s oldest archaeology museums, this museum focuses on Sparta’s vibrant and wealthy past, housing thousands of artifacts from excavations of Sparta’s ancient Acropolis. Though the museum is fairly small, there’s a lot here, with reliefs of Helen and Menelaus, sculptures of King Leonidas, bronze figurines, heads and torsos from statues of gods, votive masks, and more. You can also see intricate mosaics from the Hellenistic and Roman eras. Admission is 3 EUR.

3. Tour the Diros Caves

The Diros Caves, which formed hundreds of thousands of years ago, consist of a 5-kilometer (3-mile) network of flooded caves, most of which are part of an underground lake. Prehistoric pottery, animal bones, and remains of ancient settlements have been found in the caves as well. A 30-minute boat tour takes you through the passageways to admire the stunning stalagmites and stalactites. Admission is 10 EUR. Note: Boat rides are currently suspended until further notice.

4. Visit Mystras

The ancient city of Mystras has some of the best-preserved Byzantine ruins in the area. During its heyday, it was second only to Constantinople (now Istanbul). Set against the slopes of Mt. Taygetos, this UNESCO World Heritage Site contains the remains of a castle, libraries, church domes, houses, monasteries, and crumbled walls. Prepare to do lots of walking around the site, which also offers incredible views of the surrounding countryside. It’s just located around 5 kilometers (3 miles) from the modern town of Sparta and admission is 12 EUR.

5. Visit the Museum of the Olive and Olive Oil

This whole museum is dedicated to olives and olive oil. It takes you through the culture, history, and technology of olive oil production in Greece, as well as all the uses of olive oil in everyday Greek life. On display are items like fossilized olive leaves from 60,000 years ago, ancient and contemporary art depicting the importance of the olive, and replicas of ancient olive presses. You can also check out the reconstructed 20th-century olive presses in the courtyard. Admission is 4 EUR and it’s open every day except Tuesday from 10am-5pm.

Other Things to See and Do in Sparta

1. walk around the modern town.

Travelers don’t often hang out in the modern town of Sparta, which is why you should check it out. Head to the main square where the town hall is and enjoy some people-watching at one of the cafes. There are also a handful of ouzeries (a Greek tavern that serves ouzo, a Greek liquor) in the square if you would like to enjoy the country’s favorite alcoholic beverage.

2. Explore the ancient Sparta archaeological site

There’s not much left from the ancient city, located north of the Leonidas statue, but a walkthrough leads to where the acropolis and the agora stood from the 2nd-century BCE until the Roman era. You can also find the remains of an ancient theater (it used to be the second-largest in Greece) and the Sanctuary of Athena (a place where people could worship Athena and leave offerings). It’s free to wander around.

3. Visit the Sanctuary of Artemis

On the north side of town are the remains of the Sanctuary of Artemis Orthia, the most important deity for the Spartans. Artemis was the goddess of wild animals and the hunt as well as chastity and childbirth. The Orthia moniker mostly likely comes from a local deity who became merged with Artemis over the centuries as it is not found anywhere else in Greece. The Sanctuary was the site of some rather violent rituals, including the flogging of young Spartan boys until they bled. Since Spartan culture revolved around military service, this was considered an important way to prepare the children for the challenges ahead. Most of the ruins are Roman or Byzantine, but it’s still worth a visit.

4. Check out the Koumantareios Art Gallery

Opened in 1982, this gallery features a permanent collection of around 40 paintings from the 16th to the 19th century. There’s also a temporary, rotating exhibit of pieces from the National Art Gallery in Athens. Housed in a Neoclassical 20th-century mansion, the gallery is a small and intimate space. It’s free to visit.

5. Explore the Menelaion

A few miles outside of the city on the hill of the Prophet Elias lies the Menelaion, a 5th-century BCE shrine that was built to honor King Menelaus, husband of Helen of Troy (who was considered the most beautiful woman in the world). There is not a lot left to see of this site except for its crumbling ruins, but it’s worth a visit to walk around here if you have extra time in Sparta. There’s no admission fee.

6. Make some mosaic art

Dimitra, a self-taught mosaic artist, hosts art classes in her cozy workshop. She makes her mosaic pieces by hand so that each section of glass is unique. If you want to try your hand at making your own mosaic, she hosts three-hour workshops in her courtyard for 70 EUR (there are also 90-minute workshops). If you don’t want to do a workshop, you can simply visit to browse the shop and buy some lovely art.

7. Go hiking at Taygetus Mountain

At 2,405 meters (7,890 feet), Mount Taygetus is the highest peak in the range of the same name. It dominates Sparta’s skyline and makes for a nice outdoor adventure if you have the time. You can take one of the many routes as several-hour day hikes, or summit the peak as an overnight trek.

8. Watch the Spartathon

If you happen to be in Sparta in September, you can witness the historic ultra-distance race, the Spartathon. This 245-kilometer (152-mile) race recreates the ancient run that, in 490 BCE, the runner Pheidippides completed between Athens and Sparta when he was sent to request wartime assistance. Runners from all over the world come to compete in the event!

  For more information on other destinations in Greece, check out these guides:

• Athens Travel Guide
• Corfu Travel Guide
• Crete Travel Guide
• Ios Travel Guide
• Mykonos Travel Guide
• Naxos Travel Guide
• Santorini Travel Guide

Sparta Travel Costs

For those traveling with a tent, camping is available outside the city. A basic plot for one person without electricity costs 8 EUR per night (if you don’t have your own, you can rent a tent for an additional 8 EUR).

Budget hotel prices – A room with a private bathroom in a two-star hotel starts at 45-55 EUR regardless of the season. Expect basic amenities like TV and free Wi-Fi.

Airbnb is available in Sparta, with full apartments starting at 35-45 EUR. There are few private rooms available, and most cost the same (or more) as an entire place.

Food – Traditional Greek cuisine is very healthy with a lot of fresh vegetables, olive oil, lamb, fish, pork, cheeses (especially feta), and yogurts. Filo pastries stuffed with meat or spinach and cheese are a local favorite as are souvlaki and gyros.

Food is cheap in Sparta. Street food like traditional gyros or souvlaki cost around 5 EUR each. At a typical taverna, Greek salads usually cost around 5-6 EUR while a main dish like moussaka or souvlaki is about 7-9 EUR. An eggplant salad is less than 5 EUR.

For drinks in a bar or restaurant, a beer or glass of wine costs 2-4 EUR, a glass of ouzo is 3 EUR, and a cocktail is 6-8 EUR. A cappuccino or latte is 3-4 EUR.

Higher-end restaurants aren’t typical in Sparta but expect to pay around 13-16 EUR for dishes like a seafood risotto or 18 EUR for filet mignon.

If you cook for yourself, you can spend as little as 40 EUR on groceries per week, which includes basic staples like pasta, rice, vegetables, and some meat.

Backpacking Sparta Suggested Budgets

If you’re backpacking Sparta, expect to spend about 45 EUR per day. This assumes you’re camping, eating cheap fast food and cooking some meals, walking everywhere, limiting your drinking, and sticking to mostly free activities like wandering the ruins. If you plan on drinking, add 5-10 EUR more to your budget per day.

On a mid-range budget of about 105 EUR per day, you can stay in a budget hotel room, eat out for all your meals, take an occasional taxi to get around, enjoy a few drinks, and do some paid activities like visiting the museums and the caves.

On a “luxury” budget of 215 EUR per day or more, you can stay in a hotel or private Airbnb, eat out anywhere you want, drink more, rent a car to explore the region, and do more paid tours and activities. This is just the ground floor for luxury though. The sky is the limit!

Since Sparta isn’t a very touristy area, you don’t have to worry much about prices fluctuating in the on-season and off-season.

You can use the chart below to get some idea of how much you need to budget daily, depending on your travel style. Keep in mind these are daily averages – some days you spend more, some days you spend less (you might spend less every day). We just want to give you a general idea of how to make your budget. Prices are in EUR.

Sparta Travel Guide: Money-Saving Tips

Sparta is a pretty inexpensive city. It’s more of a “local place to live” than a hub of tourist activity and as such prices are a lot cheaper than elsewhere in Greece. Here are some of my favorite ways to cut your costs in Sparta:

• Use the Greek salad/bread rule – Is a restaurant cheap or expensive? Here’s how to find out: if the bread cover is .50 EUR or a Greek salad is less than 7 EUR, the restaurant is cheap. If the cover is around 1 EUR and a salad is 7-8.50 EUR, the prices are average. Anything more than that and the place is expensive.
• Eat super cheap – Gyros (and other street snacks) usually only cost a few euros. They are quick and easy and can keep you full for 10 EUR per day!
• Take a self-guided tour – Don’t indulge in the guided tours that are often very costly. The ruins in the area are easy to get around and visit on your own.
• Stay with a local – If you plan ahead, you can usually find really nice Couchsurfing hosts all throughout Sparta. This way, you not only have a place to stay, but you’ll have a local host that can tell you the best places to go and things to see. There aren’t many though so be sure to send your request early!
• Bring a water bottle – The tap water here is safe to drink so bring a reusable water bottle to save money and reduce your plastic use. LifeStraw is my go-to brand as their bottles have built-in filters to ensure your water is always clean and safe.

Where to Stay in Sparta

Sparta doesn’t have any hostel options, but fortunately, there are lots of budget-friendly hotels and small apartment rentals. These are my recommended places to stay in Sparta:

• Castle View Camping and Bungalows
• Lakonia Hotel

How to Get Around Sparta

Taxi – Taxis are cheap here and they’re really your only method of getting to attractions outside of town (like Mystras). A taxi from Sparta to Mystras should cost less than 10 EUR.

When to Go to Sparta

Summer in Sparta is hot. The average daily temperature in July-August is 34°C (93°F). There’s not much relief here if you want to escape the heat either — the sea is around 100 kilometers (62 miles) away. Walking around in the sweltering heat can be a bit much, so I’d avoid coming in the middle of the summer if you can.

May-June and September-October are the best times to visit as the weather is much more comfortable. It averages around 22-28°C (70-82°F), so you’ll be able to walk around and explore without sweating bullets.

Winter temperatures average 10°C (50°F) so it’s still warm enough to visit, however, some businesses shut down during this time so I’d avoid visiting in the winter if you can.

How to Stay Safe on Sparta

Sparta is a very safe place to travel. Violent crime is rare in Sparta so petty crime like pick-pocketing is your only real concern (though it’s also uncommon). Keep an eye on your possessions when out and about and don’t flash your valuables just to be safe.

If you’re visiting in the summer, always bring water and sunscreen and wear a hat as heat stroke can occur.

If you rent a vehicle, don’t leave any valuables in it overnight. Break-ins are rare but it’s always better to be safe than sorry.

Solo female travelers should generally feel safe here, however, the standard precautions apply (never leave your drink unattended at the bar, never walk home alone intoxicated, etc.).

Scams in Sparta are rare, however, if you’re worried about getting ripped off you can read about common travel scams to avoid here .

Always trust your gut instinct. Make copies of your personal documents, including your passport and ID. Forward your itinerary along to loved ones so they’ll know where you are.

If you do experience an emergency, dial 112 for assistance.

The most important piece of advice I can offer is to purchase good travel insurance. Travel insurance protects you against illness, injury, theft, and cancellations. It’s comprehensive protection in case anything goes wrong. I never go on a trip without it as I’ve had to use it many times in the past.

Sparta Travel Guide: The Best Booking Resources

These are my favorite companies to use when I travel. They consistently have the best deals, offer world-class customer service and great value, and overall, are better than their competitors. They are the companies I use the most and are always the starting point in my search for travel deals.

• Skyscanner – Skyscanner is my favorite flight search engine. They search small websites and budget airlines that larger search sites tend to miss. They are hands down the number one place to start.
• Hostelworld – This is the best hostel accommodation site out there with the largest inventory, best search interface, and widest availability.
• Booking.com – The best all around booking site that constantly provides the cheapest and lowest rates. They have the widest selection of budget accommodation. In all my tests, they’ve always had the cheapest rates out of all the booking websites.
• HostelPass – This new card gives you up to 20% off hostels throughout Europe. It’s a great way to save money. They’re constantly adding new hostels too. I’ve always wanted something like this and glad it finallt exists.
• Get Your Guide – Get Your Guide is a huge online marketplace for tours and excursions. They have tons of tour options available in cities all around the world, including everything from cooking classes, walking tours, street art lessons, and more!
• The Man in Seat 61 – This website is the ultimate guide to train travel anywhere in the world. They have the most comprehensive information on routes, times, prices, and train conditions. If you are planning a long train journey or some epic train trip, consult this site.
• Rome2Rio – This website allows you to see how to get from point A to point B the best and cheapest way possible. It will give you all the bus, train, plane, or boat routes that can get you there as well as how much they cost.
• FlixBus – Flixbus has routes between 20 European countries with prices starting as low 5 EUR! Their buses include WiFi, electrical outlets, a free checked bag.
• SafetyWing – Safety Wing offers convenient and affordable plans tailored to digital nomads and long-term travelers. They have cheap monthly plans, great customer service, and an easy-to-use claims process that makes it perfect for those on the road.
• LifeStraw – My go-to company for reusable water bottles with built-in filters so you can ensure your drinking water is always clean and safe.
• Unbound Merino – They make lightweight, durable, easy-to-clean travel clothing.
• Top Travel Credit Cards – Points are the best way to cut down travel expenses. Here’s my favorite point earning credit cards so you can get free travel!
• Ferry Hopper – If you’re looking to book your ferries, this website is an easy way to search the various companies, piece together routes, and book your tickets.

Sparta Travel Guide: Related Articles

Want more info? Check out all the articles I’ve written on backpacking/traveling Greece and continue planning your trip:

The 6 Best Hotels in Athens

The 6 Best Hostels in Athens

Where to Stay in Athens: The Best Neighborhoods for Your Visit

The Best Walking Tours in Athens

Traveling Greece: How Much Does It Cost?

Fulfilling Childhood Dreams in Crete

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• Where To Stay
• Transportation
• Booking Resources
• Related Blogs

10 Best & Fun Things to do in Sparta, Greece [2023 Guide]

The ancient city of Sparta is located in the southeastern part of Greece together with other historic cities like Argos .

It was founded by Spartans who were fleeing from their home, Laconia. To this day, Spartan culture holds many rituals and traditions that are still followed today.

It’s a small town that has been inhabited for over 2,500 years . The culture, the architecture, the food are all so distinctly Greek, and yet there is something about Sparta that sets it apart from other towns.

Maybe it’s the fact that they have their own dialect of Greek or maybe it’s because when you visit Sparta, you feel like you’re stepping back in time to ancient Greece.

Whatever it may be, one thing is certain, if you love history and want to experience true Greek culture then make sure to include some of the best things we’ve found to see in Sparta!

10. Temple of Artemis Orthia

The temple of Artemis Orthia is an important religious and archaeological site of the Spartans, located near the Evrotas River banks. 

The Spartans worshipped Orthia, the goddess of fertility and salvation, and the young Spartans were educated here in the Temple of Artemis Orthia .

Dating back to the 6th Century, here in this temple, you’ll find exquisite archaeological finds. It includes votives, Roman structure, clay masks, and the shrine of Orthias, and ritual accessories. 

This landmark is a treat for history and geology fanatics and art enthusiasts. The surrounding green forests and ancient ruins of the altar make for an important historical site. 

9. Manousakeion Museum

Museums and archaeological sites offer a unique retrospect of the people and culture of a region. For which reason, the Manousakeion Museum is one among the must-visit landmarks to understand Spartan Culture.

Manousakeio Museum is a 20th Century Museum built in a neoclassical style two-story building. Much of its collection and artifacts represent the rural and urban lifestyle and culture of the Spartans.

A significant portion of the collection in the Museum houses a comprehensive collection of the things from the house and belongings donated by the late King, Leonidas Manousakis. You’ll get to see a wide range of glassware, types of furniture, photographs, embroidery works, and costumes from that era.

8. Ancient Theatre

Standing close to the statue of Leonidas, the Acropolis and Ancient Theatre is an ancient ruin of a theatre that is worth visiting.

The Acropolis and Ancient Theatre dated back to the 2nd Century B.C. and initially held the title for one of the biggest theatres in Greece.

Although well maintained, parts of the 16000 seating capacity Theatre have seen ruins and dismantling. 

Tourist suggests that the best time to visit this ancient ruin is during the evening time. You’ll get the most stunning view of the 6 surrounding Taygetus Mountains while catching a glimpse of the golden sunset. 

7. Sainopouleio Sparta Theatre

The Sainopouleio Sparta Theatre is located in a small district called Magoula, part of the modern Sparta city in Laconia. 

Sainopouleio Sparta Theatre/ Sainopouleio Amphitheatre is one of the most beautiful theaters in Greece . It is easy to locate and visit this Amphitheatre as it is situated on the National highway of Sparta-Kalamata.

This Amphitheatre is home to host the annual “Summer Culture” of Sparta. With a seating capacity of over 1500 audiences and modern facilities, it is ideal for hosting numerous other musical and theatrical events. 

The Summer Cultural festival featuring creative and entertaining theatrical, cultural and musical performances is something you shouldn’t miss if you are visiting during the summer months. 

6. Taygetus Mountains

Towards the southern Peloponnese lies one of the Greek’s highest mountains called the Taygetus Mountains. 

The Taygetus is a scenic mountain range covered in a thick forest that stands at the height of about 2404 meters. 

The trek to the top isn’t for the faint-hearted. Nevertheless, the adventurous climb up there accompanied by the picturesque natural landscape and beauty of the mountains makes it a place worth visiting. 

Along the trek, you’ll be treated to some gorgeous views, gorges, wild nature, gorgeous butterflies, and if you are lucky, you’ll get to hear some sweet birds singing.

Up to a specific part of the trek, you can ride a bike up there too.

Sparta has so many history-rich archaeological sites to offer, and Menelaion is one of the exceptional ones. The reason being, Menelaion houses archaeological remains from other centuries too. 

It is located on a hill called Elias, parallel to the Evrotas Rives and just about 5 km away from the modern city of Sparta.

Along with the rich archaeological findings and history of Menelaion, the geographical location and structure make it truly stand out.

 The whole area is lined with green pine and olive trees, and atop the hill, it gives a panoramic and majestic view of the entire valley – ideal for family-oriented outings. 

4. Archaeological Museum of Sparta

The Archaeological Museum of Sparta screams history in every aspect. It is the oldest existing provincial Archaeological Museum of Sparta that was completed in 1876.

This neo-classical style architecture Archaeological Museum houses a rich collection of artifacts related to Sparta’s art, culture, and history. 

It is easy to locate the Museum as it is close to the city’s central area. The display of items, artifacts, and monuments is organized in chronological order, making it an effortless museum tour. 

History enthusiasts and art fanatics are sure to be entertained, and it can be a great source of invaluable information.

3. Museum of the Olive and Greek Olive Oil

One unique identity that instantly associates us with the Greeks is their excellent Olives and Olive Oil. Your whole trip to Greece will be incomplete if you skip visiting the Olive and Greek Olive oil Museum.

Located in Peloponnese, Sparta, this Museum’s primary aim is to allow a window and a chance to explore the culture, history behind the olives, and the processes involved in its production.

This Olive Museum makes for a fun and entertaining activity and learning session for children, adults and elders.  

It houses and guides you through many historical facts and information, photographs, graphics, rare fossilized olive leaves, etc. 

More info: www.piop.gr/en/diktuo-mouseiwn/Mouseio-Elias-Kai-Ellinikou-Ladiou/to-mouseio.aspx

Mystras/Mistras is a relic townscape of a former municipality of Laconia (13th Century) in Greece.  

The archaeological site of Mystras has now been marked under the World Heritage Site. Mystras is one such monumental site of Spartan that you cannot afford to miss.

Since it is located on Mt. Taygetos, you’ll need to trek a little to reach the castle. Taking younger kids may not be advisable, although older children will be manageable. 

At the site, you’ll get to witness the ruined castle, chapels and ancient churches. The surrounding view from up there makes the trek all the more worthwhile.

1. Statue of Leonidas

Leonidas meaning “son of the lion,” was an heir to the 17th Agiad line and was a King of Spartan, a Greek City.

Leonidas’s great might, strength, and endurance to fight until his last breath is considered the warrior King of the State of Sparta.

Sparta became a world history state denoting heroism, legendary disciple, and military might; it was notable for the erection of the statue of Leonidas in Sparta.

The Statue of Leonidas is made of Parian marble housed as part of the collection at the Archaeological Museum of Sparta. You can admire and take a photograph of the beauty and artisanship of the statue, which ranks #1 of the things to do in Sparta.

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11 Top Things to Do in Sparta

Sparta is a truly marvelous place to spend the holidays, with plenty of variety. For a wonderful cultural experience, the Greek city offers the visitor a thrilling perspective through organized tours of the area.  

For the anthropologically inclined, Sparta is famous for its past battles during the Peloponnesian War. Visitors who love probing into a city’s past will discover that the Spartans actually studied war and that from the time they were born, they were indoctrinated into a military culture.  

Young boys were taught how to be warriors to protect Messenia and Laconia. So, from their earliest years, they were introduced to a shield, spear, and sword. Here are some top things to do in Sparta, and we’re going to give you some insight into Sparta’s best.

Sparta – small enough to go where your heart takes you

Sparta was a city-state in its day, located in the southeastern Peloponnese region of ancient Greece, but today it is both a city and municipality in Laconia, Greece. It is small, which means it is possible to visit most sites on foot.  

Visitors to this intriguing, illustrious area find that taxis are a cool, convenient, and affordable way to get around and about to visit the many attractions of the city. But for those who prefer, renting a car is the best way to explore Sparta and the greatest region of Peloponnese, and if you prefer to self-drive, an international driving permit is required.

Avoid the intense summer heat

Sparta can get pretty hot in the summer, and getting around in the heat between June and August can become exhausting. Those who have traveled to Sparta and who know the weather conditions well will tell you that April to early June and September to early December are the best times to go.  

The weather is comfortable, with temperatures averaging roughly 22- 28 °C ( 71.6° – 82.4° Fahrenheit) . For those who like winter temperatures, you need to know that some restaurants and businesses shut down during this time, and this can be irritatingly frustrating for anyone who comes from areas where services are 24/7.

Sparta is somewhat smaller than Athens. However, it still attracts many visitors, especially history buffs, and it offers lots of thrilling attractions, making the drive from Athens a worthwhile trip.  

#1. Admire the view from the Acropolis of Sparta

There are some people that love and appreciate the different kinds of architecture found in a country or city, and the Acropolis of Sparta is an important archeological site in Laconia.

The discoveries made here are fairly recent as they were uncovered during the excavations of the British School of Athens in the early 20th century. Among the olive trees lie the ruins of the sanctuary of the Temple of Athena Chalkioikos – the patron goddess closely connected to the public and military life of the city. Here you can also admire the famous ancient theater of Sparta, which was one of the biggest during antiquity. 

You can enjoy the view of Taygetos, which is often snow-covered. It’s a beautiful mountain range on the Peloponnese peninsula in southern Greece, great for hiking and getting out into nature.

#2. Visit the Archaeological Museum of Sparta

If you love visiting museums or you consider yourself a bit of a history buff, a visit or even a tour that includes the Archaeological Museum of Sparta is a must.  

The collections inside will show you items discovered during excavations in and around Sparta. You can look at them all and learn about the fascinating stories behind them.  

The Archaeological Museum of Sparta was built in 1874, but later a couple more rooms were added to the main building. It is famous for the archaeological exhibits that come from excavations in and around Sparta.  

The valuable archaeological collections include mosaics, a collection showcasing part of the Temple of the Goddess Artemis, prehistoric collections, and even columns from ancient temples. This temple dates back to the 10th century B.C.  

The fascinating museum also hosts a set of 7th-century clay amphorae, and many Greek mythological characters can be seen depicted on the mosaics.

But there is going to be a new archaeological museum in Sparta now. The Minister of Culture announced that the new museum would be erected on the premises of a former factory, but that there were also plans to upgrade the current Archaeological Museum of Sparta.

#3. Enjoy a walking tour of Sparta

The fabulous thing about walking tours is that they capitalize on the best points of interest a city has. A walking tour inside Sparta is fun and educational, with the seasoned guides sharing all of the city’s best attractions.  

Hammam facilities were enjoyed in Ancient Greece  

The ancient Greeks and Romans loved their steam baths and aromatic oils and recognized that cleanliness was part of being healthy, with Hippocrates recommending daily bathing in various forms such as mineral and infusion baths.  

Greek baths date way back to the first half of the 5th century BCE, and on walking tours, you will get the chance to see how life was in ancient Byzantine times. On a walking tour of Sparta you will visit the modern city and the two Byzantine temples of the 10th century. These walking tours provide insight into the history, mythology, and culture of a place.  

You get the chance to visit some archaeological sites in Greece, such as Ancient Olympia, the Temple of Apollo, which is a UNESCO World Heritage Site, and also Ancient Sparta—whatever appeals to tourists as these walking tours can be adjusted to suit.

The 14,5-meter-high Colossal Throne of Apollo is another impressive structure that can be included on these walking tours.These walks are described by those who have experienced them as ‘not to be missed’.

#4. Explore the Museum of Olive and Greek Olive Oil

If you knew the awesome health benefits of olive oil, you would be sure to mark off the Museum of Olive and Greek Olive Oil as an extraordinary place to visit.  

The entire museum is dedicated to olives and oil. In Greek mythology, the goddess of wisdom, Athena, presented Athenians with an olive tree, and they, in turn, named their city after her.  

The contribution olive oil makes to Greece’s economy  

Extra virgin olive oil is famously a part of the Mediterranean diet that most of us are aware of, and a visit to the museum promises to be enthralling and educational.

The Museum of the Olive and Greek Olive Oil in Sparta provides information on olive oil production from prehistoric times to the present.

What is totally amazing is being able to look at rare fossilized olive leaves that are thousands of years old from the island of Santorini.  

There is so much more to see at this fascinating attraction, and at the end of your visit, apart from the information you’re provided with, you can go to archaeological sites of olive oil production and to traditional olive presses.

#5. Relax in the modern-day city of Sparta

Built on the site of ancient Sparta in 1834, the modern day city of Sparta is known as Néa or New Sparti. True, modern Sparta doesn’t get as many visitors as Athens does, but it still has a lot to explore. The city is small, and most visitors like to stay just a couple of days and pack a lot into that time.

One or two must-sees are:

The King Leonidas Statue

King Leonidas was a famous king who took a strong stand against the Persians way back in 480 BCE. The statue is found in front of a soccer stadium.

The Archaelogical Museum of Sparta

This is one of Greece’s oldest museums and it has thousands of artifacts from excavations of Sparta’s ancient Acropolis.

#6. Watch the Sparthanon

If you’re visiting Sparta in September, it can be fun and entertaining to watch the historic ultra-distance Sparthanon, a 152-mile race that attracts runners from around the world.

#7. Rejuvenate at the Euphoria Retreat

People are so relaxed in Sparta as it is, but they want to enjoy additional healing of the body and mind by visiting the beautiful Euphoria Retreat, a world class wellness destination spa hotel.  

There’s a wonderful ancient manor house complete with dining area overlooking Mystras and the distant Parnonas Mountains to add mystery to the splendid views.  

Everything is in earthy tones, and with the sauna, balneotherapy, and Turkish bath, you’re guaranteed to find a range of treatments that promise to relax, cleanse, balance, and rejuvenate the body and mind and restore them to wholeness.  

Enjoy being thoroughly pampered with deep-tissue massages, while other awesome features of this luxurious hotel include a fitness center, a bar and lounge, and a beautiful outdoor pool.  

Euphoria isn’t just a splendid hotel, but a magnificent health and fitness retreat where they find natural remedies for you that ensure you enjoy the ultimate healthy getaway. This holistic wellness destination also offers transfers from the airport for its guests who are looking for a great experience in Sparta. For availability and rates click here>>

#8. Discover the medieval castle town of Mystras

Known as the ‘Wonder of the Morea’, the lovely medieval castle town is found on the slopes of Taygetos Mountain. The fascinating fortress, built in 1249, has been included in the list of UNESCO World Heritage Sites, and with good reason—it’s a site deemed to have outstanding cultural value and should be protected.

One of Greece’s important historical sites

The fortified town was once a busy city with public squares, churches, and palaces, and today it is one of Greece’s most important historical sites. It’s just 5 kilometers from the town of Sparti.

Apart from being an area of cultural value, the medieval castle town is also found in a beautiful mountainous area with amazing views.  

Unfortunately, by the early 1800s, Mystras was no longer a major city, and it actually began to fall into ruins. In spite of this, there are still nuns that live in the Pantanassa Monastery in Mystras, which offers visitors the chance to see the building’s extraordinarily beautiful architecture, particularly the stone-carved facade.

It can get awfully hot visiting sites like this, so make spring and autumn your visiting times if you want to enjoy comfortable days and nights. There is a lot of walking to do when visiting this medieval castle town, so keep the season in mind, as well as any mobility issues.

#9. Hike Mount Taygetos

You can call these mountains a hiker’s paradise as they offer great outdoor adventuring. The Taygetos extends for many miles from the southern tip of mainland Greece to the northern part of the Mani Peninsula. It is one of the largest mountain ranges in Greece, stretching 110 km in length and 30 km in width.

There are magnificent forests and gorges and a host of fantastic walks and hikes for people of all fitness levels. There are many peaks and many fascinating footpaths, some steep and narrow.

Do yourself a favor and invest in The Taygetos Walking Map and Guidebook, as you will glean information on about 18 hiking routes.

You can also camp on the mountain, with some people opting to camp on the summit. The highest peak is known as Prophet Elias, and at the top, you will come across a small stone church.

The peak itself is a UNESCO World Heritage Site, and each year during July, the tiny church holds a large festival. Some hikes can be accomplished in a couple of hours, others in a day, and others include a couple of days to scale some peaks.

#10. The Cultural Summer Festival

Sparta has a rich culture, and you’ll find this very same culture being depicted in some of the many festivals that are held in and around Sparta. As it is, all the churches in the city host their own unique religious festivals, but there are many thrilling cultural festivals too.

Every summer, between June and September, there is the popular Cultural Summer Festival that takes place at the Sainopouleio Amphitheatre in the suburb of Magoula. Visitors will enjoy a series of cultural events including dance, music concerts, theatrical performances, and more.

A colorful spectrum of Greek and European artists

You will discover a wonderful selection of actors, curates and singers such as the National Theater, the Ochestra of Colors and the National Opera. You’ll see and hear works from Greek and European composers and all performed by leading artists.

The Amphitheatre was completed in 1990 at the expense of the Sainopouleio Foundation. It can accommodate up to 1500 spectators. Each year, as mentioned, there are many cultural events organized, and these are all known as “cultural summer.”

Those who love song and dance love the Cultural Summer Festival with its musical, theatrical, and dancing performances by Greek and international artists. The festival started in 1988, with a fantastic line up of events being organized from June until August.

#11. Day trips from Sparta

Mani makes a super day trip from Sparta. The driving distance between Sparta and Mani is 99 miles or roughly 57 km, requiring about 2 hours to reach Mani. What a worthwhile day trip it will be.  

Mani is said to be one of the most beautiful places in Greece, with dramatic steep cliffs and caves.  

Located in the Peloponnese, the Mani Peninsula is so mountainous that some villages were even inaccessible by car at one time. In fact, it’s the mountain ridge of Taygetos that was partly responsible for this inaccessibility, but these days there is a road connecting these most ‘wonderful-to-visit’ villages.

Mani is actually split into two prefectures, Laconia and Messinia, and you get to the Messinian part by driving through the city of Kalamata , which itself is an awesome tourist attraction, renowned for its olive groves, castle, and beautiful beach.

Caves of Diros

These fascinating caves, which formed thousands of years ago, consist of a 3 mile network of caves that are part of an underground lake.

They’re a truly extraordinary attraction, with the flooded caves located approximately 11 kilometers south of Areopolis, with the entrance on the beach.  

When you arrive, you buy your ticket at the booth and park your car in the parking area outside the caves.  

Signs of human settlements found

The locals who have visited these caves say that they can be named as one of the most important natural sites in Greece and that the Paleolithic and Neolithic artifacts found here reveal that the caves were one of the earliest inhabited places in Greece.   Remains of ancient settlements have been found in the caves.  

However, after an earthquake in 4 BC, they were abandoned as human habitats and only rediscovered much later, in about 1895.  

It is mind-boggling to learn that the known part of the caves cover an area of around 33000 square meters, but that only 5000 square meters have been explored.  

There is also a boat tour that will take you through the passageways to see the amazing stalagmites and stalactites. In fact, when you enter the cave, you go down a stairway to an underground lake where the boats are waiting. You’re given a lifesaving vest, and a guide steers the boat through caverns till you enter a huge subterranean room.

Gytheio is a beautiful harbor town founded by Hercules and Apollo and located in the center of the Laconic Gulf. With its beautiful neoclassical houses huddled together against the slopes of Mt. Koumaros, it is protected from the weather.  

The attractive coastal town is lively throughout the year, with a chilled vibe. Many visitors make it their base from where they explore the Mani area. The lovely seaside town offers visitors cozy hotels to stay in, lots of traditional Greek tavernas and trendy cafes where you can sit with a meal and take in the views.  

Near Gytheio, you can make a stop to visit the shipwreck of the ship Dimitrios. Dimitrios was a 65-meter cargo ship that was shipwrecked and abandoned on Valtaki Beach in 1981. There are many intriguing stories about how that happened.  

When visiting Gythion, a good idea is to start off by visiting the Gythion cultural centre, which has more recently been transformed into an ethnographical museum. Certainly, if you are planning to travel to the Mani, it makes for an interesting starting point.  

Monemvasia is extremely picturesque, with beautiful stone mansions, romantic winding stone paths, and great Byzantine churches. It’s a fantastic place to visit all year. Its beaches are clean and beautiful.

Monemvasia is a fascinating, well preserved castle town on the southeastern side of the Peloponnese. Visitors just love exploring the romantically mystical stone-built settlement, immersing themselves in its utterly unique atmosphere!

When you wander around its narrow cobbled streets, there will be much to delight. The ultimate treat will be to stay overnight in this amazing place surrounded by the Aegean Sea – an island linked only   to the mainland by a single causeway.

Where to stay in and around Sparta

Mystras grand palace resort and spa.

Living up to its 5-star status, the Mystras Grand Palace Resort and Spa offers everything one would expect from a hotel of this caliber, including the most delicious food and after dinner drinks.  

You’ll be spoiled for choice, and it’s simply the perfect place to relax and indulge, with all the air-conditioned rooms having terraces.  

The beautiful hotel with exquisite gardens offers luxury amenities such as free wifi, swimming pools, flat screen TVs, a fitness center, and more.

For availability and rates click here>>

Laze away your days at the lovely 3-star neoclassical Menelaion Hotel, which has been renovated to ensure comfort and luxury but without a hefty price tag.

Everything anybody could wish for is provided at the hotel, which is conveniently located in the middle of Sparta.  

It has a restaurant that serves great Greek and Mediterranean dishes made with fresh products. There is also a swimming pool and comfortable, stylish rooms that are air conditioned.  

The hotel also offers free WiFi, and some of the rooms have a balcony. There is also a cafe and a souvenir shop, ensuring a wonderfully pleasant stay. For availability and rates click here>>

Mystras Inn

Mystras Inn has everything going for it: a lovely location at the foot of Mount Taygetos and everything to ensure comfort and enjoyment.  

Guests staying at the inn love the stone-paved courtyard, the free wifi, the air conditioned rooms, the restaurant, and the wonderful views overlooking the mountain.

The comfortably stylish rooms come with a flat-screen TV, a safe, a private bathroom, and a hairdryer. Breakfast is served in the dining area or courtyard, and once you’ve refueled for the day, you’ll discover that top attractions are fairly close by.

Sparta – you get a true Greek experience

Many people visit Sparta because they relish the idea of simply spending time at Sparta’s main square. They feel as if they are having a true Greek experience, drinking ale, enjoying music, and listening to stories of Sparta’s glorious past.

True, Sparta can’t be described as a beautiful town, but it makes a good base for exploring the southeast part of the Peloponnese.  

It is particularly hot in the summer, but the evenings are comfortable, and when the sun disappears behind Mount Taygetos, the city still buzzes with energy, and you can look forward to another day in the city, which has a lot to offer local and international tourists.

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Explore Sparta

Plan your sparta holiday: best of sparta.

Essential Sparta

Sparta Is Great For

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Archaeological Museum

In a park, this likeable old-style archaeological museum hosts artefacts from Sparta’s illustrious past. Look for the votive sickles of the kind that Spartan boys dedicated to Artemis Orthia. There are also reliefs perhaps featuring Helen and Menelaus (and Helen with Paris), bronze and lead votive figurines, heads and torsos of various deities, a head and torso dubbed King Leonidas, a brilliant razor-backed wild boar, votive terracotta masks and grave stelae (pillars). Fine mosaics from Hellenistic and Roman Sparta are also on show.

cnr Lykourgou & Agiou Nikonos

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Spárti (Sparta) and around

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The tour to Greece was a pleasant surprise for me! Perfect organisation, pleasant team, amazing landscapes and cultural sites!

The central core of the Peloponnese is the luxuriantly spreading Mount Ménalo; but due south, in the Lakonian Evrótas valley, are Spárti and its Byzantine companion, Mystra, both overlooked and sheltered from the west by the massive and astonishing wall of the Taïyetos mountain ridge. Spárti had a big role in the development of ancient Greece, while Mystra, arrayed in splendour on its own hillside, is one of the country’s most compelling historical sites.

A Spartan upbringing

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As the blood-spattered 2007 film 300 would seem to confirm, the famously tough Spartans can still stir the imagination. In part this stems from their legendary upbringing. Under a system known as the agoge, Spartan boys were rigorously trained by the state to develop physical toughness, loyalty and cunning. Babies judged unlikely to make the grade were left exposed on the slopes of Mount Taïyetos. Other boys were taken from their families at the age of seven to live in barracks. They were habitually underfed, so that they would learn to live off the land. At the age of twelve, they were required to form a sexual bond with a young Spartan soldier, who would act as their mentor. At eighteen, they would become provisional members of the army until the age of thirty, when it would finally be decided if they were worthy of Spartan citizenship. At this point they were expected to marry and produce offspring. The system was much admired in the ancient world, and boys from other city-states were sometimes sent here for their education.

Despite lying on the site of the ancient city-state of Sparta, modern SPÁRTI, capital of Lakónia, has few ancient ruins, and is today merely the organizational centre of a huge agricultural plain. Spárti’s limited appeal is its very ordinariness – its pedestrianized side streets, café-lined squares, orange trees and evening vólta. The reason for coming here is basically to see Mystra, the Byzantine town, 5km to the west, which once controlled great swaths of the medieval world.

Brief history

Commanding the Lakonian plain and fertile Evrótas valley from a series of low hills just west of the river, ancient Sparta was at the height of its power from the eighth to the fourth century BC, a period when its society was structured according to extremely harsh laws (see A Spartan upbringing). The ancient “capital” occupied more or less the site of today’s town, though it was in fact less a city than a grouping of villages. Lykurgos, architect of the warlike Spartan constitution and society, declared that “it is men not walls that make a city”.

The Spartans famously defeated Athens in the Peloponnesian War between 431 and 421 BC and later established colonies around the Greek world. They eventually lost hegemony through defeat to Thebes. A second period of prosperity came under the Romans – for whom this was an outpost in the south of Greece, with the Máni never properly subdued. However, from the third century AD, Sparta declined, as nearby Mystra became the focus of Byzantine interest.

The annual September Spartathlon, a 246km run from Athens to Spárti, commemorates the messenger Pheidippides who ran the same route in 490 BC: the current course record is 20 hours and 25 minutes.

Ancient sites

There are a few ruins to be seen to the north of the city. From the bold Statue of Leonidas, hero of Thermopylae, at the top of Paleológou, follow the track around and behind the modern stadium towards the old Acropolis, tallest of the Spartan hills. An immense theatre here, built into the side of the hill, can be quite clearly traced, even though today most of its masonry has gone – hurriedly adapted for fortification when the Spartans’ power declined and, later still, recycled for the building of Byzantine Mystra. Above the theatre a sign marks a fragment of the Temple of Athina Halkiakou, while at the top of the acropolis sit the knee-high ruins of the tenth-century Byzantine church and monastery of Ósios Níkon.

Out on the Trípoli road (Odhós-ton-118, just past the junction with Orthias Artémidhos), a track leads to the remains of the sanctuary of Artemis Orthia. This was where Spartan boys underwent gruelling tests by flogging. The Roman geographer and travel writer Pausanias records that young men often perished under the lash, adding that the altar had to be splashed with blood before the goddess was satisfied. Being addicts of morbid blood sports, the Romans revived the custom here – the main ruins are of the spectators’ grandstand they built.

The archeological museum

All moveable artefacts and mosaics have been transferred to the town’s small archeological museum on Áyios Níkonos. Among its more interesting exhibits are a number of votive offerings found on the sanctuary site – sickles set in stone that were presented as prizes to the Spartan youths and solemnly rededicated to the goddess – and a fifth-century BC marble bust of a running Spartan hoplite, found on the acropolis and said to be Leonidas. There is a dramatic late sixth-century BC stele, with relief carvings on both sides, possibly of Menelaos with Helen and Agamemnon with Klytemnestra; the ends have carved snakes. There are fragments of Hellenistic and Roman mosaics, and numerous small lead figurines, clay masks and bronze idols from the Artemis Orthia site.

The Museum of the Olive

At the southwest corner of town is the Museum of the Olive and Greek Olive Oil, at Óthonos & Amalías 129, worth a visit for its informative displays covering the primordial history, uses and production technology of the olive.

MYSTRA is one of the most exciting and dramatic historic sites that the Peloponnese can offer – a glorious, airy place, hugging a very steep, 280m foothill of Taïyetos. Winding up the lushly vegetated hillside is a remarkably intact Byzantine town that once sheltered a population of some 20,000, and through which you can now wander. Winding alleys lead through monumental gates, past medieval houses and palaces and above all into the churches, several of which yield superb if faded frescoes. The overall effect is of straying into a massive unearthing of architecture, painting and sculpture – and into a different age with a dramatically different mentality.

In 1249, Guillaume II de Villehardouin, fourth Frankish prince of the Moreas, built a castle here – one of a trio of fortresses (the others at Monemvasiá and the Máni) designed to garrison his domain. The Franks, however, were driven out of Mystra by the Byzantines in 1262, and by the mid-fourteenth century this isolated triangle of land in the southeastern Peloponnese, encompassing the old Spartan territories, became the Despotate of Mystra. This was the last province of the Greek Byzantine empire and, with Constantinople in terminal decay, its virtual capital.

During the next two centuries, Mystra was the focus of a defiant rebirth of Byzantine power before eventual subjugation by the Turks in 1460, seven years after the fall of Constantinople. Mystra remained in Turkish hands until 1687 when it was captured, briefly, by the Venetians. Decline set in with a second stage of Turkish control, from 1715 onwards, culminating in the destruction that accompanied the War of Independence, the site being evacuated after fires in 1770 and 1825. Restoration begun in the first decades of the twentieth century was interrupted by the civil war – during which it was, for a while, a battle site – and renewed in earnest in the 1950s when the last inhabitants were relocated.

The Upper Town and Kástro

The Kástro, reached by a path direct from the upper gate, maintains the Frankish design of its original thirteenth-century construction. There is a walkway around most of the keep, with views of an intricate panorama of the town below. The castle itself was the court of Guillaume II de Villehardouin but in later years was used primarily as a citadel.

Following a course downhill from the Kástro, the first identifiable building you come to is the church of Ayía Sofía (1350). The chapel’s finest feature is its floor, made from polychrome marble. Its frescoes, notably a Pandokrátor (Christ in Majesty) and Nativity of the Virgin, have survived reasonably well, protected until recent years by coatings of whitewash applied by the Turks, who adapted the building as a mosque.

Palatáki and the Despot’s Palace

Heading down from Ayía Sofía, you have a choice of routes. The right fork winds past ruins of a Byzantine mansion, one of the oldest houses on the site, the Palatáki (“Small Palace”; 1250–1300), and Áyios Nikólaos, a large seventeenth-century building decorated with unsophisticated paintings. The left fork is more interesting, passing the fortified Náfplio Gate, which was the principal entrance to the upper town, and the vast, multistoreyed, Gothic-looking complex of the Despots’ Palace (1249–1400; closed at the time of writing, undergoing extensive rebuilding and restoration). Most prominent among its numerous rooms is a great vaulted audience hall, built at right angles to the line of the building; its ostentatious windows regally dominate the skyline, and it was once heated by eight great fireplaces. Flanking one side of a square, used by the Turks as a marketplace, are the remains of a mosque.

The Lower Town

At the Monemvasiá Gate, which links the upper and lower towns, there is a further choice of routes: right to the Pandánassa and Perivléptos monasteries or left to the Vrondohión monastery and cathedral, all very clearly signed. If time is running out, it is easier to head right first, then double back down to the Vrondohión.

Pandánassa convent

When excavations were resumed in 1952, the last thirty or so families who still lived in the lower town were moved out to Néos Mystrás. Only the nuns of the Pandánassa (“Queen of the World”) convent have remained; they have a reception room where they sell their own handicrafts and sometimes offer a cooling vyssinádha (cherryade) to visitors. The convent’s church, built in 1428, is perhaps the finest surviving in Mystra, perfectly proportioned in its blend of Byzantine and Gothic. The frescoes date from various centuries, with some superb fifteenth-century work, including one in the gallery that depicts scenes from the life of Christ. Other frescoes were painted between 1687 and 1715, when Mystra was held by the Venetians.

Perivléptos monastery

The diminutive Perivléptos monastery (1310), a single-domed church, partially carved out of the rock, contains Mystra’s most complete cycle of frescoes, almost all of which date from the fourteenth century. They are in some ways finer than those of the Pandánassa, blending an easy humanism with the spirituality of the Byzantine icon traditions. The position of each figure depended upon its sanctity, and so upon the dome the image of heaven is the Pandokrátor (the all-powerful Christ in glory after the Ascension); on the apse is the Virgin; and the higher expanses of wall portray scenes from the life of Christ. Prophets and saints could only appear on the lower walls, decreasing in importance according to their distance from the sanctuary.

Laskaris House

Along the path leading from Perivléptos to the lower gate are a couple of minor, much-restored churches, and, just above them, the Laskaris House, a mansion thought to have belonged to relatives of the emperors. Like the House of Frangopoulos, it is balconied; its ground floor probably served as stables. Close by, beside the path, is the old Marmara Turkish Fountain.

The Mitrópolis or cathedral, immediately beyond the gateway, is the oldest of Mystra’s churches, built between 1270 and 1292. A marble slab set in its floor is carved with the double-headed eagle of Byzantium, commemorating the 1448 coronation of Constantine XI Paleologos, the last Eastern emperor; he was soon to perish, with his empire, in the Turkish sacking of Constantinople in 1453. A stone with red stains is said to mark where Bishop Ananias Lambadheris was murdered in 1760. Of the church’s frescoes, the earliest, in the northeast aisle, depict the torture and burial of Áyios Dhimítrios, the saint to whom the church is dedicated. Opposite are frescoes illustrating the miracles of Christ and the life of the Virgin; more intimate and lighter of touch, they date from the last great years before Mystra’s fall. Adjacent to the cathedral, a small museum (included in main admission charge) contains various fragments of sculpture and pottery.

Vrondohión monastery

The Vrondohión monastery, a short way uphill, was the centre of cultural and intellectual life in the fifteenth-century town – the cells of the monastery can still be discerned – and was also the burial place of the despots. Of the two attached churches, the further one, Odhiyítria (Afendikó; 1310), has been beautifully restored, revealing startlingly bold, fourteenth-century frescoes similar to those of Perivléptos.

Néos Mystrás

This pleasant roadside community has a small square with several tavernas, crowded with tour buses by day but low-key at night, except at the end of August when the place buzzes with live music during the week-long annual paniyíri (fête).

The Mystra renaissance

Throughout the fourteenth century and the first decades of the fifteenth Mystra was the principal cultural and intellectual centre of the Byzantine world, attracting the finest Byzantine scholars and theologians and sponsoring a renaissance in the arts. Most notable of the court scholars was the humanist philosopher Gemisthus Plethon, who revived and reinterpreted Plato’s ideas, using them to support his own brand of revolutionary teachings, which included the assertions that land should be redistributed among labourers and that reason should be placed on a par with religion. Although his beliefs had limited impact in Mystra itself – whose monks excommunicated him – his followers, who taught in Italy after the fall of Mystra, exercised wide influence in Renaissance Florence and Rome.

More tangibly, Mystra also was home to the final flourish of Byzantine architecture, with the building of a magnificent palace for the despots and a perfect sequence of churches, multi-domed and brilliantly frescoed.

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19 Top-Rated Tourist Attractions in Greece

Written by Michael Law and Jane Foster Updated Sep 29, 2023

Home to some of the world's most important historical sites, along with some 6,000 islands, Greece is known for its natural beauty and fascinating culture. Ancient archaeological sites, cliffs tumbling into sparkling blue water, sand and pebble beaches, and a balmy Mediterranean climate make Greece one of Europe's prime places to visit for tourists .

Besides Athens, some of the top things to see on the mainland include Ancient Delphi and the monasteries of Meteora. But most people come here to catch a ferry or a flight to the islands: Santorini, Mykonos, Zakynthos, Corfu, and Crete are the most popular. Plan your trip with our list of the top attractions in Greece.

1. Acropolis, Athens

2. acropolis museum, athens, 3. santorini, 6. the towns and beaches of crete, 8. metéora monasteries, 9. rhodes town, 10. zákynthos, 11. samaria gorge, 12. nafplio, 13. thessaloniki, 14. corinth canal, 15. mount olympus, 16. palace of knossos, 17. mycenae, 21. víkos gorge.

Considered the symbol of Athens and Greece, and indeed of Western civilization, the Acropolis is a rocky mound rising in the heart of modern Athens, crowned by three magnificent temples dating from the 5th century BC. The best known and most distinctive is the Parthenon , originally made up of 58 columns supporting a roof and decorated by ornate pediments and a frieze.

Although the Parthenon steals the show, other highlights on the Acropolis hilltop are also spectacular. The ornate Temple of Athena Nike, the Porch of the Caryatids, and the Propylaea are not to be missed. Tear yourself away from the historic sights and wander over to the edge, panoramic views of the seven historical hills of Athens and the city are laid out below you.

Skirting the foot of the Acropolis and connecting it to the city's other major ancient attractions — the Ancient Agora , the Roman Forum , Kerameikos , and the Temple of Olympian Zeus — is a 2.5-kilometer walking path known as the Archaeological Promenade .

Author's Tips: For a fantastic nighttime view of the Acropolis, make your way to one of the rooftop restaurant patios on the pedestrian-only Apostolou Pavlou . Plan on getting to the Acropolis early to avoid ticket lineups, bus tours, crowds, and the heat if you are visiting in summer.

• Visiting the Acropolis in Athens: The Essential Guide
• Top-Rated Attractions & Things to Do in Athens

The Acropolis Museum is one of Athens' most-visited tourist attractions. Designed by Swiss architect Bernard Tschumi, it is an ultra-modern glass and steel structure with light and airy exhibition spaces, built specifically to display ancient finds from the Acropolis.

Top things to see here include the 6th-century-BC Moschophoros (statue of a young man carrying a calf on his shoulders), the Caryatids (sculptures of female figures that held up the Erechtheion), and the highly controversial Parthenon marbles . From the museum's cafe-restaurant terrace, you can enjoy amazing views of the Acropolis itself.

• Read More: Top-Rated Attractions & Things to Do in Athens

Stunning Santorini is the most dramatic of all the Greek isles. It is best known for the west coast cliff-top towns of Fira and Oia , which appear to hang over a deep, blue sea-filled caldera. Made up of typical Cycladic whitewashed cubic buildings, many of which have been converted into boutique hotels with infinity pools, both Fira and Oia are considered romantic destinations, popular for weddings and honeymoons.

Things to do in Santorini include sunbathing and swimming at the black volcanic-sand beaches on the south and east coasts and visiting the archaeological site of Akrotiri , an Ancient Minoan settlement buried below lava following the volcanic eruption that created the caldera, some 3,600 years ago. The island has an airport and is served by ferries and catamarans from Athens' port, Piraeus.

• Read More: Top-Rated Tourist Attractions on Santorini

Many people consider Greece's most glamorous island destination to be Mykonos. After-dark activities center on Mykonos Town, noted for its chic boutique hotels, classy seafood restaurants, and live music venues. Other attractions include Paraportiani (a whitewashed church in Mykonos Town) and numerous sandy beaches along the island's south coast (served both by bus and taxi-boat from Mykonos Town).

The island is particularly popular with international celebrities. Mykonos has an airport and is connected by ferry and catamaran to Athens' port, Piraeus, and Rafina.

On the Greek mainland, Delphi is a UNESCO World Heritage site. Built on the lower slopes of Mount Parnassus, overlooking a dramatic ravine, the site was sacred to the ancients, who came here on pilgrimages to worship Apollo (god of light, prophecy, music, and healing) and to ask advice from the mythical Oracle.

It is made up of the crumbling ruins of numerous temples, a theater, and a stadium, dating from between the 8th century BC and the 2nd century AD. Nearby, stands the Delphi Archaeological Museum , displaying an impressive collection of finds from the site. Delphi lies 180 kilometers northwest of Athens.

Delphi is about a 2.5-hour drive from Athens. It can easily be done as an overnight trip from the city, or even a day trip if you don't mind a long day.

• Read More: Visiting Delphi from Athens: Highlights, Tips & Tours

The massive island of Crete is one of the most popular vacation destinations in Greece. Blessed with some of the best beaches in Greece , the island draws visitors from around the world. Some of the most popular beaches on Crete range from small arcs of sand backed by restaurants and promenades to wide-open natural stretches lapped by incredibly clear waters and endless views across the sea.

But Crete is not all about beaches. It has its fair share of notable archeological sites, including the impressive Palace of Knossos, located near the pleasant city of Heraklion . The historical city of Chania and the laid-back town of Agios Nikolaos have wonderful old waterfront areas perfect for spending long afternoons on a café terrace getting lost in the views.

Get away from the bigger communities, and head to smaller towns like Plakias or Matala on Crete's south coast to find more remote beaches and beautiful mountainous backdrops.

If archeological sites, beaches, and historical towns weren't enough, the island has one of the most impressive hikes in the world : the Samaria Gorge.

One of Greece's top tourist destinations, Corfu sits in the Ionian Sea off the west coast of the mainland. The capital, Corfu Town , is a UNESCO World Heritage site, thanks to its elegant Italianate architecture — it was ruled by the Venetians for several centuries. Explore its romantic pedestrian-only streets to discover two 16th-century fortresses and the arcaded Liston, lined by old-fashioned cafes.

Away from the main town, the island is lushly beautiful, with rugged limestone rocks tumbling into the sea in its north and velvety green hills in its south. The most popular beach area is Paleokastritsa , on the west coast, about 25 kilometers from Corfu Town. Here, you'll find a collection of deep, curving bays sheltering sand and pebble beaches stretching into a clear blue sea. Corfu is served by an airport and ferries from Igoumenitsa and Patras on the Greek mainland. In summer, ferries sailing from Ancona and Venice also stop here.

• Read More: Top-Rated Tourist Attractions & Things to Do on Corfu Island

One of the most unusual things to see in Greece has to be the Thessaly Plain, where bizarre rocky outcrops are capped by the centuries-old monasteries of Metéora. On the UNESCO World Heritage list, six of the monasteries are open to the public. You need to climb up several flights of stone steps carved into the rocks to reach each monastery, and inside, you'll find flickering candles, religious icons, Byzantine frescoes, and burning incense.

Opening hours vary, and to see all six monasteries, you need to spend at least one day in the area. The nearest town is Kalambaka . Consider staying here, as it's a pleasant and relaxed place to visit, with small hotels and family-run restaurants serving traditional fare.

• Read More: Top-Rated Tourist Attractions in Metéora

Lying on the Aegean Sea, close to Turkey, Rhodes is the largest of the Dodecanese islands. Its capital, UNESCO-listed Rhodes Town, is one of Greece's top tourist destinations. It is enclosed by an impressive fortification system, including monumental towers and gates built by the Knights of St. John after they took control of the island in the 14th century.

The car-free cobbled streets of the old town are a joy to explore on foot. Nearby attractions include the pretty hillside coastal town of Lindos, and Marmaris on the Turkish coast, which can be visited by excursion boat. Rhodes is served by an airport, as well as regular ferries from Athens' port, Piraeus.

• Read More: Top-Rated Tourist Attractions in Rhodes Town

Home to gorgeous scenery both above and under the sea surrounding it, Zákynthos (Zante) island is another top tourist destination in Greece. It is also easy to access, located just 16 kilometers off Peloponnese's west coast in the Ionian Sea.

Two of the biggest boasts on this geographically intriguing island are its pebble and sand beaches — Shipwreck Beach is the most famous — and stunning sea caves like the Blue Caves , off the island's northern tip. Inside, the sparkling water reflects the color of the blue sky on the cave walls to create a magical glow. The Blue Caves are only one of the many watery attractions around this island. There is also excellent snorkeling and scuba diving.

• Read More: Top Rated Tourist Attractions & Things to Do in Zakynthos

On the island of Crete, the Samaria Gorge is a top attraction for lovers of the great outdoors. Measuring 16 kilometers in length and, at its narrowest point, only four meters wide, it runs from Omalos (1,250 meters) in the White Mountains down to Agia Roumeli , on the Libyan Sea.

Depending on your level of fitness, it will take five to seven hours to walk. It is steep in parts and rocky, so you should wear good hiking shoes and carry plenty of water. The gorge lies within the Samaria National Park , and is on the UNESCO tentative list. Through summer, organized tours depart from Chania and Réthymnon .

• Read More: Top-Rated Tourist Attractions in Chania

Often cited as Greece's most beautiful city, Nafplio is a popular weekend destination for wealthy Athenians. Built on a small peninsular on the east coast of the Peloponnese, it became the first capital of modern Greece in 1828 before Athens took over in 1834.

Take an afternoon or a day to wander through the old town, this car-free area is filled with Neoclassical mansions and proud churches and overlooked by the 18th-century Palamidi Fortress . Nearby attractions include Tiryns , Epidaurus Theater , and Ancient Corinth .

Thessaloniki doesn't seem to mind not being on most people's touring list. The locals are happy to have the place and all its sights to themselves. The main sightseeing attractions are its UNESCO-listed Byzantine churches , but worth investigating are several Roman monuments (including the Triumphal Arch of Galerius and the 4th-century Rotunda ), the 15th-century White Tower on the seafront, and an excellent Byzantine Museum .

Overlooking the Aegean Sea in northern Greece, Thessaloniki (Salonica) is the country's second biggest city after Athens. Founded in 316 BC due to its position close to both Bulgaria and Turkey, it has always been a crossroads of various cultures and religions.

One of the top day trips from Thessaloniki is to Mount Olympus , the highest mountain in Greece. Only 80 kilometers away on good roads, this impressive natural sight is well worth visiting. The most popular hiking trails depart from near the town of Prionia.

As you drive along the relatively flat highway 8 approaching the Peloponnese Peninsula, be sure to stop in at the lookout over the Corinth Canal. This canal, first dreamed about and attempted in 1 CE, was finally brought to fruition in 1883. Unfortunately for the builders, the canal was never particularly profitable or successful.

Park your car and walk out onto the bridge and give some thought as to how the original builders managed to dig down through the solid rock to carve out the canal.

Mount Olympus, famous home of the god Zeus, lies about halfway between Athens and Thessaloniki. Towering over the surrounding countryside at an impressive 2,918 meters, this mountain is a top recreation destination in the summer.

Three hiking trails lead to its summit, although most people take the two-day, one-night Priona trail. From the top, the views are unparalleled and well worth the effort expended to get here. You do not need any special equipment to do this hike, just a good assortment of clothing, sturdy hiking boots, and a taste for adventure.

One of the top archeological sites here in Greece, the Palace of Knossos is a must-see when visiting Crete. The site dates from the Late Minoan time period and has been very well restored. Although the standing buildings give you a real sense of what this place once looked like, as with many archeological sites in Greece, some portions require a bit of imagination.

The site is well laid out, with walking trails that wind their way past the main buildings and plazas. Be sure to check out the colorful paintings on some of the major structures near the end of the walkway.

The Palace of Knossos is located just outside of Heraklion , one of the main gateways to Crete. Tours can be easily arranged.

The impressive citadel of Mycenae is one of the top archeological sites south of Athens and well worth a visit for those interested in Greek history. Set impressively on a hill, Mycenae dates from around 1350 BCE, the peak of the Mycenaean civilization.

One of the key sights at Mycenae is the impressive Lion Gate. Set into the side of the hill, the gate is composed of perfectly inlaid stones over a rectangular doorway. This is the site where the famous gold mask was found by the explorer Heinrich Schliemann in the late 19th century. If the sun is getting to you, step inside the impressively domed Treasury of Atreus and enjoy some shade.

The island of Paros is sometimes overlooked by ferry travelers exploring the Cyclades, intent on visiting the more popular Santorini. However, this is a mistake. This laid-back island has everything that the busier islands offer farther south and north. The same whitewashed towns perched on the waterfront with patios full of laughing and smiling patrons are what you'll find here, but without the crowds.

Paros also has a fine selection of beaches and historical sites to explore. It's also a good spot to go if you are watching your costs; accommodation is cheaper here.

Another popular destination, Naxos is one of the largest Cycladic islands. This huge island is a fun place to explore, and with fewer tourists than places like Santorini or Mykonos. A couple of must-sees when exploring include the small towns of Filoti, Halki, and Apiranthos.

Take some time to wander through the main town, Chora of Naxos, especially the Kastro district. Here, you'll find a variety of shops selling all manner of souvenirs, along with cute restaurants with inviting patios.

If you want to hit the beach, Naxos does not disappoint. A couple to check out include Paradise Beach, Agia Anna, or Agios Prokopios. If you are into kiteboarding, the windswept Mikri Vigla is the place to go.

For a taste of quintessential Greece that's only a two-hour ferry ride from Athens , consider the delightful island of Hydra. Home to old mansions and white-washed houses adorned with bougainvillea and cobblestone streets the town has been attracting the creative set for decades.

The island is wonderfully car-free so walking is a pleasure, stroll the busy port area and be sure to check out the early 19th-century cannons along the waterfront. Should you need to get anywhere on the island, donkeys are the main mode of transport on land, and water taxis will be more than willing to take you to a secluded beach lapped by crystal-clear water.

Cat lovers will especially enjoy Hydra, it's known for its feline residents who are generally very friendly and always open for a tasty morsel of seafood.

Another one of Greece's premier natural attractions is the Víkos Gorge. Lesser known than the above profiled Samara Gorge on Crete, this incredible natural phenomenon is commonly known as the Grand Canyon of Greece. The gorge is a UNESCO World Heritage site and part of the larger Vikos–Aoös National Park.

An astounding 1,000 meters deep the canyon is one of the most amazing and easily accessible natural sights in the northwest area of Greece. If you want to just see the gorge from a lookout, one of the best is located at Oxya Viewpoint , where you'll be treated to views into the deepest part of the gorge.

For the more adventurous, a well-signposted 13-kilometer hiking trail takes you down into the gorge and back up the other side. The trail starts at Monodendri and ends at Vikos. Halfway through you can go for a dip in the icy cold Voidomatis Springs to cool off. The trail is considered moderately difficult and takes most people 4.5 to 5 hours to complete.

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