Monemvasia, also known as the Gibraltar of Greece, is a stunning sight on the Greek mainland. This enchanting town is situated on a large rock facing the coast, making it the most picturesque town in the Peloponnese. Strolling through its narrow streets, you can bask in breathtaking views of the sea, delve into history through ancient ruins, and experience the laid-back village life. Discover more about the best things to do in Monemvasia in this blog and be enticed to include this town in your travel itinerary through Greece.
How to get to Monemvasia in Greece
Monemvasia is situated in the southeastern part of the Peloponnese, the largest peninsula in Greece. Nearby attractions include the historic ruins of Mystrad, the picturesque Mani Peninsula, and the fishing village of Githion.
The unique location of Monemvasia contributes to the picturesque character of the town. Its name, which translates to ‘only entrance’, reflects the fact that the town is situated on a rocky peninsula and can only be accessed by a narrow strip of land. To reach Monemvasia, you first head to the new town on the mainland. Although parking on the peninsula is possible, it is often limited during peak season. We then recommend you park in the new town and continue on foot. To start your journey back in time, simply cross the bridge from the mainland to the peninsula and follow the main road on the right side of the island until you reach the old city gate.
Where to stay in Monemvasia
The best places to stay in Monemvasia is the old lower town to experience its medieval atmosphere. The upper town, located high on the island’s rocks, is also worth seeing but consists solely of ruins without any hotels or restaurants. Therefore, the best location for a hotel in Monemvasia is the lower town. However, if you prefer more affordable accommodations and beautiful boutique hotels with a pool, consider staying near the new city on the mainland.
Booking.comThe best hotels in Monemvasia within the walled city:
- Byzantine Boutique Hotel is conveniently located near the city gate of Monemvasia. The hotel is housed in a traditional and authentic building. The charming rooms feature wooden beam ceilings and floors, and many offer beautiful sea views.
- Bastion Malvasia Hotel is situated in a traditional stone building overlooking the sea. The rooms are adorned with white walls and classic beam ceilings. Its location, ambiance, and scenic views establish it as one of the best hotels in Monemvasia.
- Malvasia Traditional Hotel is a charming hotel with curved passages, beamed ceilings, and wooden furniture. The highlight is the magnificent sea-view terrace where breakfast is served every morning.
- Guest house Kelly offers the best reviews in Monemvasia. Located in a Medieval building with traditional details, Kellia provides an authentic experience. The terrace and gardens offer stunning sea views.
- Ardamis is located in an authentic building with vaulted ceilings and natural stone arches. The terrace offers a panoramic sea view. This historic hotel is ideally situated within the walled city and receives exceptionally positive reviews from guests.
The best mainland hotels at Monemvasia:
- Akra Morea Hotel is located on the mainland of the new Monemvasia. This modern hotel features sleek grey-toned rooms and a green garden with a beautiful outdoor swimming pool overlooking the sea. Additionally, the hotel offers apartments and family rooms, making it an ideal choice for traveling families.
- Monemvasia Green Apartments offers contemporary accommodations including rooms, studios, and apartments. The hotel provides a private car park and boasts a stunning ocean view, receiving excellent reviews from its guests.
- Alkinoi Resort & Spa is a modern luxury hotel with a breathtaking view of the Monemvasia peninsula. It features a saltwater swimming pool, bar, spa, hot tub, and an extensive breakfast buffet. The reviews for Alkinoi are consistently positive and it is one of the most popular hotels to stay in Monemvasia.
- Iris Beach Hotel is located on a beautiful beach, a bit further from Monemvasia. It offers private parking, a bar, and the beach is just around the corner. Guests can enjoy a delicious breakfast served on the terrace with a view of the Monemvasia peninsula.
- Kinsterna Hotel is one of the most stunning luxury hotels in Greece, situated south of Monemvasia and therefore a bit farther from the old town. It is a boutique hotel that occupies a restored Byzantine mansion and offers rooms with charming and genuine furnishings. The hotel features two swimming pools, a spa with a hammam, a restaurant, a bar, and private parking. The highlight is the signature pool, which is supplied by its own freshwater source and winds through the gardens like a river. The delectable breakfast consists of seasonal products sourced from the hotel’s garden.
The 7 best things to do in Monemvasia
#1 The atmospheric old town
Monemvasia, with its captivating old town, is undoubtedly one of Greece’s most picturesque destinations. Steeped in history dating back to the Middle Ages and boasting a beautifully preserved town center, a stroll through the charming streets of Monemvasia feels like a journey through time. Surprisingly, this hidden gem often goes unnoticed as a bucket list-worthy destination.
Situated on an island off the coast, Monemvasia was once a fortified city strategically positioned at the rear of a rocky island, rendering it virtually invisible from the mainland. This advantageous location made it difficult for enemies to discover and conquer the town. Only later was the island connected to the mainland by a bridge, transforming it into a sort of peninsula. Today, visitors can drive their (rental) cars across this bridge to reach the city gate of Monemvasia, although it is not recommended during the busy high season. However, the old town itself still comprises narrow lanes and streets accessible only to pedestrians, forming the lower town of Monemvasia.
The lower town’s labyrinthine layout consists of narrow streets adorned with historic buildings, churches, restaurants, houses, hotels, souvenir shops, and ruins. While it may seem easy to get lost, the lower town is relatively small in size. A central street runs through the heart of the old city, connecting one city gate to the other. Another delightful way to explore the city is by traversing the city walls near the sea, offering panoramic views of both the sparkling ocean and the historic town.
Tip: to experience the authentic charm of the picturesque old town, it is advisable to explore the streets of the lower town early in the day, as Monemvasia tends to get crowded during the high season.
#2 The lighthouse of Monemvasia
Situated at the far end of the island, the Monemvasia lighthouse awaits. The road from the mainland leads along the island’s edge to the entrance gate of Monemvasia. Passing through this gate, you’ll traverse the main street, eventually reaching the other entrance gate. From there, a short walk leads you to the lighthouse.
Built in 1860 and now registered as a monument, the lighthouse features a small museum in the adjacent building, allowing visitors to explore its historic significance. While the museum may not be extensive, the true allure of the lighthouse lies in the walk outside the city. Venture beyond the old town, across the rocky terrain, to the edge of the island where the lighthouse stands.
For the more adventurous souls, an exciting hike along the island’s edge awaits beyond the lighthouse. While the path leading from the city gate to the lighthouse is well-defined, the subsequent route can be considered less of a path and more of an adventurous trail.
#3 The upper town of Monemvasia
Where there is a lower town, an upper town naturally exists. Monemvasia is divided into two distinct sections. On the coast, you’ll discover the characteristic and well-preserved lower town, while atop the rocky plateau, the old upper town awaits exploration. Ascend the stairs leading from the lower town to the summit of the rocks, granting access to the old town.
The upper town of Monemvasia predominantly consists of ruins. Once home to wealthy residents, it now preserves the remnants of a bustling part of Monemvasia. Scattered across the expansive plateau, you’ll find the vestiges of a bygone era. Take a leisurely stroll across the plateau, allowing your imagination to conjure up the past splendor that once graced these grounds. Don’t forget to take in the breathtaking view. Ultimately, your path will lead you to the exquisite Agia Sofia church, a Byzantine marvel and one of Monemvasia’s most captivating sights.
#4 The rooftop bars
As Monemvasia is a popular tourist destination, you’ll find many restaurants and cafes nestled within the lower town. The real gems, however, are the rooftop bars, where you can indulge in stunning views of the historic buildings.
Most restaurants are located along the central street that connects the city gates. While they may not be immediately visible from the street level, many cafes and restaurants boast delightful terraces perched atop adjacent buildings. As Monemvasia is built against a rock, these rooftop bars offer panoramic vistas of the city, the sea, and the encompassing city walls. While the midday sun can be scorching during the summer months, these elevated venues provide a cool respite. They are perfect for enjoying a delightful breakfast or savoring a refreshing drink while basking in the sunset’s warm glow at the day’s end.
#5 A walk on the city walls
The old fortified city of Monemvasia is encircled by towering city walls, punctuated by gates on both sides. The walls, running parallel to the sea, provide a tranquil pathway for a leisurely stroll. From one side of the city, you can embark on a picturesque walk along the walls to the opposite end. Along the way, you’ll enjoy panoramic views of the sea and the old town, nestled against the soaring rock face.
While Monemvasia’s central street boasts beautifully preserved architecture, the walk along the city walls reveals a slightly rawer side of the city, with more ruins and weathered houses intermingled with charming squares and historic mansions. Particularly during sunset, a stroll along the city walls presents an enchanting perspective of Monemvasia.
If you desire a swim in Monemvasia, the city walls provide access to Portello Beach, where you can enjoy the sea’s embrace.
#6 The Byzantine church in the upper town
In the upper town of Monemvasia, amidst the predominantly ruined structures, stands the venerable Agia Sofia church on the northern edge of the rocky plateau, crowning the island’s highest point. Believed to have originated in the 13th century, the church has served as a place of worship, a monastery, and even a mosque throughout the centuries. During the 2buildingury, the building fell into disrepair before being meticulously restored, transforming it into one of Monemvasia’s most treasured and significant monuments.
The architectural marvel of Agia Sofia lies in its octagonal dome situated at the church’s central part. The arches and frescoes within are characteristic of Byzantine churches frequently encountered throughout Greece. However, due to the church’s various roles and subsequent renovations over time, its current form does not precisely match its authentic 13th-century appearance. For instance, during the Ottoman rule in the region, the church temporarily featured a minaret, which was later dismantled.
#7 The central square of Monemvasia
One of the most photogenic spots within the lower town is the main square of Monemvasia. Following the main street through the old town inevitably leads you to this bustling square. Here, you’ll find the Elkomenos Christos church, complete with a bell tower, the city’s archaeological museum, a well, and a charming coffee shop boasting a terrace.
While we didn’t personally visit the museum, we did enjoy a delightful breakfast at the coffee shop while gazing upon the picturesque square. This captivating square embodies the essence of Monemvasia, characterized by its cobblestone pavement and historical buildings. From the square’s edge, you can also enjoy captivating vistas of the city, the encircling walls, and the azure sea.
