Grand Peloponnese Exploration Self-Drive

Upon arrival at Athens Airport, proceed to pick up your rental car and drive to your hotel for check-in. Take the opportunity to rest and recover after the flight or head out into the city for your first glimpse of life in Greece´s sprawling capital. You may visit Syntagma Square and get into the city’s vibe or go shopping in one of the most popular streets of the city in the Kolonaki area or Ermou. Take a pleasant walk in the beautiful alleys of Plaka (the old district) where you can also find a large number of small shops selling souvenirs and other local artefacts.

After breakfast at the hotel, spend the day exploring Athens at your own pace. This is your opportunity to discover the city’s rich history, vibrant neighbourhoods and iconic landmarks independently. Whether you choose to visit the Acropolis, wander through the charming streets of Plaka, or explore the bustling markets and cafes, the day is yours to enjoy. Overnight in Athens.

Enjoy your breakfast before you leave Athens and drive towards Nemea village. Make a short stop at the Corinth Canal, which divides the mainland from the Peloponnese. While arriving at the Nemea area you can stop to visit one of the local wineries and taste delightful and sensuous wines of different styles or continue to Malandreni village to visit one of the most important wineries in Greece, the “Skouras” winery. Degustation of the most awarded wine labels that the domain produces and the wine-making procedure will give you a glimpse of the wine tradition in Greece. Continue to the “Silo Art” gallery, where you will meet an artist who will guide you around his exhibition. Do not miss to get some pictures of the “Trojan” horse. The next stop is ancient Mycenae – the city of the legendary king Agamemnon. Walk through this impressive archaeological site and visit the Tomb of Agamemnon. To wrap up your first day continue to Nafplion for exploration of this marvellous city and then onto your hotel for overnight.

After breakfast, explore two of Nafplion’s historic fortresses – Akronafplia and Palamidi, the latter famously used as a prison. You can then drive to Sparta, where you will visit the Museum of the Olive and Greek Olive Oil. This unique museum showcases the cultural and technological heritage of olive oil production, a cornerstone of Greek and Mediterranean life, set in the heart of Laconia, a key olive-growing region. After checking in to your hotel in Sparta, you have the afternoon at leisure to explore the town and its rich history, including its legendary victory over Athens. Overnight in Sparta.

After breakfast, before leaving Sparta, visit the Byzantine castle of Mystras. Known as the ‘Wonder of the Morea’, Mystras was established in 1249 by Prince William of Villehardouin as a fortress city built in an amphitheatrical style. Over the centuries, it was held by Byzantines, Turks and Venetians before being abandoned in 1832. Today, its impressive medieval ruins sit amid stunning natural surroundings. You then continue to Monemvasia, a large rock island off the east coast of the Peloponnese. Here, explore the castle remains, fortress ruins and the Church of Agia Sophia, perched dramatically on a cliff edge. Upon arrival in Monemvasia, you check in to your hotel and have the remainder of the day at leisure. Overnight in the Monemvasia, Gytheio or Areopolis area.

After breakfast, drive to the village of Pyrgos Dirou to explore its remarkable cave complex. This extensive network of caves offers a journey back to the Neolithic era, with stunning stalactites and stalagmites creating a truly unique spectacle. The tour follows a circular route, including a 2,800-metre section navigated entirely by boat through the largest and most famous sea cave in Greece. You will be captivated by this extraordinary natural wonder. Return to the hotel for an overnight stay in the Gytheio or Areopoli area.

Drive towards Kalamata, passing the serene and unspoiled Stoupa beach. This tranquil spot, with its long white sandy shores and crystal-clear waters, offers a perfect chance to pause for a swim or simply relax amid the peaceful surroundings. Continuing on to Kalamata, you will discover a vibrant city that was shortlisted as European Capital of Culture in 2021. Explore its long beachfront, enjoy the variety of restaurants and shops, and experience the lively nightlife. A stroll along the palm-lined promenade or through the charming alleys of Amfia reveals the city’s unique atmosphere, beautifully complemented by romantic sunsets over the sea. Overnight in Kalamata.

After a leisurely breakfast, visit Nestor’s Palace near Kalamata before departing. This well-preserved Mycenaean palace offers a fascinating glimpse into ancient times, with highlights including the large throne room featuring a circular hearth, a room with a clay bath, and storage areas filled with numerous jars. Take time to appreciate the palace’s intricate frescoes and architectural details. Afterwards, drive back to Athens International Airport to return your rental car and prepare for your onward flight. We suggest booking a late evening flight or considering an additional night in Athens to avoid any rush. This concludes your journey through Greece’s rich history and landscapes.