The Peloponnese is located about an hour from Athens separated from the rest of mainland Greece by the Corinth Canal. It is less visited than other parts of Greece (cough cough Santorini), but once you visit, you’ll be surprised it’s not more popular. If you have a few days to spare in Greece, you can get a good feel for the ruins, coastal towns, and beautiful beaches of the Peloponnese with this 5-day itinerary.
Day 1: Arrive in Athens
You’ll likely arrive at midday on Day 1, so I recommend stopping in Athens. Spend the afternoon visiting the most famous site, the Acropolis. Head to the Plaka in the evening where you can enjoy a leisurely dinner at one of the many sidewalk eateries.
Click here to see more ideas for what to do in Athens.
Day 2: Head to the Peloponnese with a Stop in Corinth and Mycenae
Rent a car and drive west towards the Corinth Canal. The canal separates the Peloponnese from the rest of mainland Greece. After a quick stop to see the canal, continue on to Ancient Corinth. You can read more about these stops in Corinth here.
After a morning in Corinth, head to the ruins of Mycenae – one of the oldest sites you’ll see on this trip.
Next, keep driving to Nafplio, a gorgeous coastal town with Venetian influence where you’ll spend the next two nights.
Day 3: Soak in Nafplio and a Trip to Epidaurus
Use your full day in Napflio to explore the town and beaches. You can read more about Nafplio here.
You can also take a quick trip to the ruins of Epidaurus before heading back to Nafplio for some more beach time. Mycenae, Epidaurus, and Nafplio are located somewhat close together so you may choose to visit both Epidaurus and Mycenae on the same day instead. You can find out more about both sights here.
Day 4: Explore Monemvasia and Kastania Cave
On Day 4, you’ll head to the southern tip of the Peloponnese to check out the 3 million-year-old, Kastania Cave. The road there is mountainous and winding so drive carefully!
Next, drive to Monemvasia where you’ll be spending the afternoon and night. Monemvasia is a fortified town built entirely into the cliffside. There’s only one way in through a small tunnel-like gate. Take your time getting lost in the streets and climb to the top of the Upper Town for breathtaking views of the Myrtoan Sea.
Check out my guide to Monemvasia here.
Day 5: One Last Stop in Mystras
On your way back to the airport in Athens, stop by Mystras. Mystras was a powerful capital during the time of the Byzantine Empire and was later abandoned in the 1800s as present-day Sparta was built. Spend a few hours exploring the ruins and well-preserved frescoes in the churches.
Check out my Mystras guide here.
Are there any stops you would add to this 5 day Peloponnese itinerary? Comment below!
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