A Guide to Exploring Greece's Peloponnese Region: From Nafplio to Costa Navarino

We explored the Peloponnese over the course of a two-week adventure, and I still feel like there is so much more we want to go back and do. It is perfect for anyone that loves destinations that give them lots to see and do, alongside relaxing days just swimming in the sea, long lazy lunches, and reading a book between naps.

Argolis

We started by collecting our rental car when we landed in Athens and made the drive from there down to our first stop, Nafplio. This city was the first capital of Greece, with a very pretty neoclassical port, complete with a fortress you can climb up to if you are feeling energetic. It is also a perfect jumping off point for exploring some of Greece’s best ancient sites:

• Ancient Nemea: Temple ruins and excellent red wines.

• Epidaurus: The acoustically perfect ancient theater.

• Mycenae: Bronze Age citadel and Lion Gate.

Just south of Nafplio is Porto Cheli, if you are looking for a quieter and more exclusive coastal vibe, with Nikki Beach and Amanzoe as incredible options for your stay.

Laconia

Our next stop was just outside the Byzantine fortress town of Monemvasia. We stayed nearby at Kinsterna, a lovingly restored 13th-century estate with vineyards, a spring-fed pool, and views of the rock-island citadel. I absolutely loved this hotel! And it was perfectly placed for a quick drive to Monemvasia. We loved exploring the old town and its cobblestoned lanes, medieval churches, and we had an early morning hike to ruins at the top for the most beautiful panoramic views. We then found the Portello Gate, the hidden passage leading from inside the walls straight to the sea. We swam in crystal clear water and cooled off after our hike, before we enjoyed lunch in one of the tavernas in the old town.

The Deep Mani

The Mani Peninsula really feels like you are at the ends of the Earth, in the best way possible! It is wild, romantic, and peaceful. Gerolimenas, which is considered the deep Mani, was our next stop, where we were greeted very warmly at Kyrimai, our hotel for the next few nights. Kyrimai is a very charming hotel that was converted from shipping houses. Fun fact: The main export for the area was quail to France. Kyrimai is also known for their dining and we had made reservations in advance so we would be guaranteed a spot as it is very popular and open to non-guests. Some of our favorite experiences in the Deep Mani were exploring the Vathia Towers. We climbed through this hauntingly beautiful ghost village of stone towers once inhabited and then abandoned by feuding clans. We also hiked to Cape Tainaron Lighthouse, the southernmost tip of mainland Greece. It is 45–60 minutes each way along a rocky coastal trail with breathtaking views. Make sure to bring water and your swimsuit for a dip in the tiny cove at the trailhead or at Porto Kagio nearby.

Kardamyli

After our time in the deep Mani, we headed north and made a stop in the beautiful town of Limeni, where we swam with sea turtles and had lunch by the water. I have never seen water so turquoise in my life! Afterwards, we carried on up to Kardamyli, where the annual jazz festival was taking place. This was such a fun time to be there, with musicians and bands from all over the world playing in venues around the village. We spent one day hiking up to Agia Sofia and then meandering back through orange and olive groves and stopping to take in the most beautiful views back over the village and sea below us. Another day, we took a day trip to ancient Messene, one of Greece’s best-preserved archaeological sites.

The end....

While this is technically where our trip ended, our intention is to return so we can carry on to explore the far western reach of the Peloponnese to enjoy Costa Navarino and its luxury resorts, including W Costa Navarino (adults only) and Mandarin Oriental Costa Navarino. It is also an excellent spot for day trips to visit ancient Olympia and Voidokilia Beach (the iconic omega-shaped bay with shallow turquoise water).

If you are traveling from Europe, you might have access to seasonal direct flights to Kalamata, which will mean not having to make the drive from Athens. Having said that, the drive from Athens was not bad at all! And you can stop and visit the Corinth Canal if you fancy a break and having a look at this marvel.

The driving was not difficult, although if you struggle with heights, some of the mountain roads might feel a bit intense.

Check opening days and times for ancient sites before setting off, and also if you plan to visit wineries in Nemea, I would highly recommend going on a private or small group tour to get the most out of the experience.

Get in touch if you are planning your own “off the beaten track” experience in Greece. I would love to help!

For more inspiration and insider recommendations, visit our Greece page.