Sparta and Kalamata are located in the Peloponnese - once a playground for the ancient Greeks, and now a historical playground for those of us fascinated by their history, myths and monumental achievements. Are you looking to learn about ancient lore and the ghosts of a once-great civilization? Connect with a knowledgeable local guide for a private Sparta or Kalamata tour!

Before you even begin to tackle the historical side of things, your guide will want you to notice the natural beauty of your surroundings. The Laconia region, in the southern Peloponnese, is home to mountains, lush gorges, valleys of citrus and olive groves, vineyards, streams and sun-drenched beaches. With your guide, see the beautiful ruins at Mystras, near Sparta, and visit traditional villages to explore the regional cuisine, taste seasonal fruits and vegetables and drink the local wines and spirits.

Enjoy exploring the riches of the Peloponnese on your private Sparta tour!

Sparta

Explore the Southern Peloponnese with the help of an experienced local tour designer and leader.
You will be asked to state your expectations and interests, and your host plans every detail of the itinerary. A custom tour with limitless options.

Explore the Southern Peloponnese

Full Day Tour Starting from Kalamata

Why this tour?
I started doing this tour because it is a real Greek experience! The Mythical Peloponnese region is the most historic and beautiful in Greece. My wife and I have always wanted to share the wonders of the Peloponnese, which we have extensively explored.
We will leave touristy Athens behind and enjoy 5-days, touring privately the best of the Peloponnese sites the way locals do. It's all about experiencing the beauty of the Peloponnese, the food, the landscape, and the people.
These are the UNESCO sites &amp; unique, authentic locations we visit:
1] Corinth Canal, Mycenae, Nafplio town &amp; Epidaurus Ancient Theater (option: Ancient Corinth)
2] Monemvasia Castle Town
3] Mani peninsula and Diros Caves, Sparta, Mystras (optionally, a visit to the Olive Oil Museum)
4] Ancient Olympia (optional: Overlooked, amazing Ancient Messene)
5] Arcadia mountains, villages &amp; cliff-hanging monasteries.

Enjoy the Authenticity, the Myth, the Culture &amp; the Food

5-Day Tour of the Mythical Peloponnese from Athens

Olympia, Winery, Olive Press and Seaside Half Day Tour

For those that seek a different experience my proposal is this 6h tour that empowers the visitor to explore and interact with the cultural and social environment of the land of Olympia.

I will drive you from Katakolo to Olympia, passing on all necessary information, to prepare you for your visit in Olympia. Once there you will have 1 hour to explore the Olympic Games site on your own. Once done we will drive to the Olympia Land Winery, one of the most famous family operated traditional wineries.

Then we will visit an olive press located at a nearby village where you will have a guided tour to learn how the olive oil is extracted. There you will be offered different types of olive oil to taste along with olives, olive paste spread and fresh warm bread.

Next stop St. Andreas beach. You can swim and unwind on the sunbeds or have lunch admiring the Ionian Sea. Then, we will return to Katakolo.

Enjoy a 6 hour shore excursion from Katakolon

Monemvasia and the Highlights of Laconia Tour

Laconia is an unspoiled patchwork of staggering landscapes, soaring mountains and photogenic villages. Many call it the mythical heart of Greece.

There are certain attractions in Laconia that no visitor should miss: the villages of the Mani Peninsula, the Byzantine fortress of Mystras, the modern day town of Sparta with the several traces of its ancient glory, the impressive fortress town of Monemvasia, etc.

The tour visits some of the well known- and also several well hidden- attractions the region has to offer, and combines scenic drives and walks with cultural experiences, leisurely breaks, and memorable meals.

Two day tour starting from Kalamata

Mycenae, Epidaurus & Nafplio Full Day Tour

Walking between the walls of the ancient city of Mycenae, still standing proudly after so many centuries, you will be able to feel the agony and the struggle for survival of the ancient Greeks.

The sense of mysticism that we will have the chance to experience, while we are walking inside Epidaurus through the Tholos/Thymele, the Stoa of Abaton, the Katagogion, e. t. c. , are only some of the buildings that will fascinate us and you will imediately realise that they can be the reason of inspiration of a very atmospheric video game.

This trip will "open" for you a window into the past, but you will also have fun and see the modern lifestyle of the locals.
I thoroughly enjoy sharing with you the stories of the people who lived and built the palaces and tombs of their glorious kings in Mycenae, but at the same time I seek to convey to you the present day lifestyle of the locals of Nafplio.

Private Tour from Kalamata or port of Nafplio

For those who arrive in Katakolon on a cruise ship and want to explore Olympia this 4. 5 hour tour includes transportation from Katakolon to Olympia and back by a brand new fully airconditioned luxury type minivan. On board commentary. Three hours free time in Olympia.

The vehicle has sound system with microphone and offers Wifi. We will wait for you at the designated area in Katakolon port. In order for you to recognize your vehicle there will be a sign with your name on it. Your driver will be there to welcome you. We always arrive a little earlier than the time agreed in order for you not to wait and spend valuable time.

During your 30 min. drive to Olympia you will be given an interesting commentary about Katakolon, Olympia and the prefecture of Ilis and prepare you for your visit in Olympia.

Once in Olympia you have three hours of free time to visit the archaeological museum, the Olympic Games site and the modern town of Olympia.

The Philippeion in the Olympic Games site

Join me in this 4.5 hour shore excursion from Katakolon

Explore Olympia - Half Day Tour

Join me for a three day tour of the Mani Peninsula, a region known for its rugged terrain, vast olive groves, Byzantine churches, castles, and stone hilltop villages. The tour has been carefully designed to offer a balance of cultural and historical sites, wonderful walks, free time on magnificent beaches, and great meals.

Originating and ending in my home-town of Kalamata, a town whose name travels quite a bit due to its eponymous olive, the tour takes us around the entire peninsula, with overnight stops in Areopoli and Gytheio, and visits some of the most fascinating sites the region has to offer. Great emphasis is given to accommodations and meals.

Together we will visit traditional villages and explore the regional cuisine, learn about the herbs and spices used, taste the seasonal fruits and vegetables and drink the local wines and spirits.

Exploring the the Mani Peninsula in three days

Multi-Day Tour from Kalamata

For the traveller that wants to make the most of his visit to Olympia and the surrounding area I offer a 6 hour tour that includes transportation from Katakolon to Olympia and back, 90 mins free time in Olympia to visit the archaeological museum and/or Olympic Games site, 50 mins visit to a local winery, 120 mins free time to swim and have lunch on one of the most beautiful beaches of the Ionian sea.

The vehicle has sound system with microphone and offers Wifi. We will wait for you at the designated area in Katakolon port and always arrive earlier in order for you not to wait and spend valuable time.

During your 30 min. drive to Olympia you will be given an interesting commentary about Katakolon, Olympia and the prefecture of Ilis and prepare you for your visit in Olympia.

Once in Olympia you have 90' free time to visit the archaeological site and museum.

Then you will visit a family operated local winery for 50'.

Before returning to the port you will have 120' to swim and have lunch by the seaside.

Enjoy this 6 hour shore excursion from Katakolon

Olympia Winery and Ionian Beach Tour

Mystras' historical importance is tremendous.
In my primary school, every time we had a history lesson about Byzantium, the teachers organised a school trip to the neighbouring Mystras castle town, an hour's drive from the city where I grew up (Kalamata).

During the excursion, as I was running along the stone paths, hiding in the ruins of Byzantine houses or following "The Hunt for the Lost Treasure" organized by one of my teachers, I imagined ladies in long dresses and triangular hats with veils walking alongside me. I imagined knights with Byzantine weapons and swords standing on the battlements next to my classmates, smiling condescendingly.

I've been giving this tour since 2014, and each time I feel like I'm traveling back in time. Follow me on an adventure to Mystras, to feel like the knights and damsels of our childhood.

This trip is ideal for travelers coming by cruise ships for few hours.

Join me in a private tour starting from Kalamata or the port of Gythion.

Mystras Castle Town full day tour.

For those who arrive in Katakolon on a cruise ship and want to explore Olympia this 6 hour tour will provide a true experience of Olympia and the surrounding area.

The vehicle has sound system with microphone and offers Wifi. We will wait for you at the designated area in Katakolon port. We always arrive earlier in order for you not to wait and spend valuable time.

During your 30 min. drive to Olympia you will be given an interesting commentary about Katakolon, Olympia and the prefecture of Ilis.

Once in Olympia you will have 2 hours free time to visit the archaeological museum and the Olympic Games site.

Then you will have 1 hour to explore the modern town of Olympia.

Finally you will visit a local restaurant and taste homemade style greek cuisine dishes in an all-you-can-eat buffet. Local house wine from biological cultivated grapes is included along with greek coffee and dessert. A Greek Dining Experience as such will give you the opportunity to taste a variety of traditional greek cuisine recipes.

6 hours shore excursion from Katakolon, including Greek dining experience

The Olympia Experience - Half Day Tour

Monemvasia Highlights Day Tour from Kalamata.

Walking around the cobbled streets you will get acquainted to the history of this city that was founded by the Byzantine emperor, and all its consequent rulers: The Pope, the Franks, the Venetians and the Ottomans. You will learn everything about its significant port that made Monemvasia one of the richest and most cosmopolitan towns of the Mediterranean and the wine produced there, that made it famous all over Europe. You will not miss the chance to visit
some of the castle's 46 churches.
After your walk around the Lower town, you can make your way up to the archaeological site
of the Upper town on top of the rock. There, you will have the opportunity to stroll in between the
ruined houses on your way to Haghia Sophia, an 11th century church perched on the edge of the
cliff and enjoy the panoramic views towards the mainland and the magnificent blue of the Aegean Sea.

Tour can start also from the port of Monemvasia or the port of Gythion.

Sparta offers a 'laconic' journey throughout Greek history. Let me travel back in time with you! I really enjoy sharing my passion for the history of our ancient cities!

The Acropolis of Ancient Sparta and its monuments, are still standing there from the sixth century BC, in defiance of all the centuries that gone by. We will see the Ancient Theater, the Temple of Chalkioikos Athena, the circular building, the remains of the stores of ancient agora, a Persian Gallery and so many more.

You will have the information for each monument that we will see, and for all the events of everyday's life of Ancient Spartans and their kings.

Finally we will not miss a visit at the Olive oil Museum that will make us reflect on the importance of this tree to the survival of local people over the centuries. We will learn how our ancestors collected the Olive fruits and the technological evolution acquired over the years.

Private tour starting from Kalamata or the port of Gythion.

Iconic Sparta Half Day Tour

Epidaurus & Nafplio Walking Full Day Tour.

When I was a child I had a great fear of visiting the ancient city of Epidaurus. The reason is that Greek children learn at school that Epidaurus is not only an amazing amphitheatre but it used to be a hospital for mental and physical health.

The sense of mysticism that we will have the chance to experience, while we are walking through the Tholos/Thymele, the Stoa of Abaton, the Katagogion, e. t. c. , are only some of the buildings that will fascinate us and you will imediately realise that they can be the reason of inspiration of a very atmospheric video game.

I thoroughly enjoy sharing with you stories of doctors and patients who spent part of their lives inside that hospital, but at the same time I seek to convey to you the present day lifestyle of the locals of Nafplio. As we walk through it's narrow and traditional alleys, you will understand how the Modern Greeks live and have fun today.

Private Tour from Kalamata or from Nafplio or the port of Nafplio.

If you're tired of the tours that are just history lessons, you've found the solution.
This trip will "open" for you a window into the past, but you will also have fun and see the modern lifestyle of the locals.
I thoroughly enjoy sharing with you the stories of the people who lived and built the palaces and tombs of their glorious kings in Mycenae, but at the same time I seek to convey to you the present day lifestyle of the locals of Nafplio.

Walking between the walls of the ancient city of Mycenae, still standing proudly after so many centuries, you will be able to feel the agony and the struggle for survival of the ancient Greeks.

But later on, as we walk through the narrow and traditional alleys of Nafplio, you will understand how the Modern Greeks live and have fun today.
Join me on this private day trip to Mycenae & Nafplio in a luxurious air-conditioned vehicle, with free WiFi on board.
The tour starts from Kalamata but it can be started also from the port of Nafplio or any port in the Peloponnese.

Private Tour from Kalamata or from the port of Nafplio.

Mycenae & Nafplio Walking Full Day Tour.

Are you interested in photography and history? Then this is the ideal tour for you. With a licensed tour guide and a professional photographer on your side you will be able to visit some of the greatest monuments of antiquity. Mycenae and Epidaurus are two UNESCO world heritage sites, the history of which spans thousands of years. In this tour you will learn their history and you will also acquire knowledge of photographing ancient ruins, following the footsteps of the 19th century travelers, who sailed across the continents in order to capture the greatest monuments of the ancient world. Our trip doesn't end here though. Together we will also visit the city of Nafplio, the provincial capital, where a workshop on street photography will be held for you. This famous photography genre became very popular in the 20th century through the works of Bergson, Brandt and all the other greats of photography. Take you camera and your thirst for knowledge and join us!

Let's visit Argolis with a licensed tour guide and a professional photographer!

Argolis Full Day Photo Tour from Nafplio

Pylos & Methoni Full Day Tour from Kalamata

Join me on a private day trip to Pylos and Methoni in a luxurious air-conditioned vehicle, with free WiFi on board.
I started doing this tour because I give my travelers the chance to admire two of the most beautiful coastal towns of Messenia together with their historical castles.

These two enchanting and atmospheric castles will make you connect with their long history instantly.
The first time (2014) that I visited these cities with my travelers, and we confront the bay of Navarino, combined with the castles and the green colors of Pylos, I could see instantly in their eyes the awe and admiration they felt for the people who built them, despite the adversity of the period.
It is imposible not to feel a little jealous for their romantic and simple lives and of course understand their difficulties and effort of surviving.

This trip is ideal for travelers coming by cruise ships for few hours.

Peloponnese tours

Explore with 18 tours and 5 guides.

Yorgos P.

$ 425 (USD)

Niko G.

$ 5,992 (USD)

Christos D.

$ 708 (USD)

Yorgos P.

$ 820 (USD)

Aristoteleia N.

$ 871 (USD)

Christos D.

$ 546 (USD)

Yorgos P.

$ 1,180 (USD)

Christos D.

$ 662 (USD)

Aristoteleia N.

$ 465 (USD)

Christos D.

$ 604 (USD)

Aristoteleia N.

$ 871 (USD)

Aristoteleia N.

$ 465 (USD)

Aristoteleia N.

$ 604 (USD)

Aristoteleia N.

$ 604 (USD)

Ioannis M.

$ 1,437 (USD)

Aristoteleia N.

$ 465 (USD)

Meet your local guides in Peloponnese

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