Monemvasia, the hidden castle city with a background of endless blue

Discover the timeless allure of Monemvasia, a historic masterpiece set against the canvas of boundless blue skies and seas. This dramatic red rock, soaring from the ocean, cradles a medieval castle town, offering a voyage into a world of knights, pirates, and emperors – an immersive experience for history enthusiasts.

Cross the Bridge of the New Town and step into a bygone era, where cobblestone streets lead to the poetic haven of Giannis Ritsos and the enchanting Central Square.

Traverse vaulted alleys adorned with coats of arms, wander through ancient churches, and stand humbled before the Elkomenos Christos Temple's timeless grandeur.

Climb to Ano Poli for a panoramic spectacle of Venetian mansions and castle walls embracing the Myrtos Sea. At the zenith, marvel at the Byzantine wonder, Agia Sophia, perched on the cliff's edge. Complete your journey in Portelos, where you can swim beneath the Castle's shadow, embracing the fusion of history and nature. Monemvasia welcomes you to a realm where history breathes and beauty flourishes.

Enjoy the excellent local cuisine of Monemvasia

The cuisine of Monemvasia is distinguished for its simplicity, in order to highlight the natural taste of the ingredients. Be sure to try: saitia (fried pies with cheese and spices), goges (local pasta), rooster with wine, zucchini stuffed with cheese, strapatsada with siglino, fresh fish and seafood.

Do not forget to try the traditional sweets: macaroons of Monemvasia, samousades, diples, kourabiedes, melitinia, rafiolia and of course the favorite wine of the Venetian lords, Malvasia.

Best time to visit Monemvasia

Monemvasia is a place where all seasons of the year it remains charming and wonderful!

How to use transportation in Monemvasia

Transportation to Monemvasia

Access to Monemvasia is only by car. The distance from Athens is 300 km (duration about 3.5 hours) and from Thessaloniki is 800 km (duration about 9 hours).

Alternatively, you can reach Monemvasia using intercity buses.

During the summer months, there is a ferry service from Piraeus and the total trip takes about 6 hours.

However, you can fly to the airport of Kalamata either from the airport of Athens (duration about 55 minutes) or from the airport of Thessaloniki (duration about 1 hour and 10 minutes). Kalamata Airport is 168 km away from Monemvasia (duration about 2.5 hours). Access to/from the airport can be done by rental car.