Laconia: Sparta, Mystras, Monemvasia and Gythio – A Travel Guide
Laconia is the south-east of the Peloponnese, between the mountains of Taygetos and Parnon. Here you find the land of ancient Sparta, the Byzantine ghost town of Mystras, the medieval rock of Monemvasia, the harbour town of Gythio and some of the clearest water in Greece around Elafonisos.
Sparta
Modern Sparta is a calm, green town with wide streets and orange groves around it. See the statue of Leonidas, the remains of the ancient acropolis and theatre, the Archaeological Museum and the Museum of the Olive and Greek Olive Oil. It is the best base for Mystras.
Mystras
Just 5 km west of Sparta, Mystras is a UNESCO World Heritage Site: a whole Byzantine town on a hillside under Taygetos, with churches full of frescoes, monasteries, the Palace of the Despots and a castle at the top. There are two entrances, so a driver can drop you at the upper gate and wait at the lower one while you walk downhill. Plan at least three hours and wear good shoes.
Monemvasia
Monemvasia is a huge rock joined to the mainland by a short causeway. Behind its walls hides a medieval town of stone lanes, small churches and guesthouses, with no cars inside. Walk up to the church of Agia Sofia on the top of the rock for the view, and stay for the evening, when the day visitors have left.
Gythio
Gythio is a colourful harbour town with neoclassical houses and fish tavernas on the waterfront. A causeway leads to the small island of Marathonisi with its stone tower, and long sandy beaches stretch south of the town. Gythio is also the gateway to the Mani – see our Mani peninsula guide – and a cruise port: see the Gythio shore excursion.
Elafonisos and Neapoli
At the southern tip of Laconia, a short ferry from Pounta near Neapoli takes you to Elafonisos, famous for the white sand and turquoise water of Simos beach. It is a popular day trip in summer and a quiet place to stay in spring and autumn.
Mountains and trails
Taygetos and Parnon are perfect for walking, with chestnut and fir forests, mountain villages and old stone paths. See the trails of Taygetos and the Parnon Trail.
When to go
Spring and autumn are best for Mystras, Monemvasia and the mountains. Summer is the season for the beaches of Gythio and Elafonisos. Monemvasia is lovely in winter too, especially at Christmas and New Year.
Where to stay
Where to stay in Sparta & Mystras · Where to stay in Monemvasia & Elafonisos · Where to stay in the Mani & Gythio
Getting there
Sparta is about 3 hours from Athens by motorway, Gythio about 3½ hours and Monemvasia about 4 hours. From Kalamata Airport, Sparta is about one hour. Buses between the villages are few, so a private driver is the easiest way to combine Mystras, Monemvasia and the coast.
See: Athens – Sparta & Mystras · Athens – Monemvasia · Athens Airport – Gythio · Athens – Neapoli (for Elafonisos) · Lagkadia – Sparta & Mystras
Combine it with
Mystras and Monemvasia guide · Mystras, Monemvasia, Gythio & Mani – 5 days · New Year in Monemvasia & Mystras · Messinia travel guide
Frequently asked questions
How many days do we need in Laconia?
Three days are enough for Sparta and Mystras, Monemvasia and one day on the coast. With five days you can add Gythio, the Mani or Elafonisos.
Can we visit Mystras and Monemvasia in one day?
It is possible but long – about 1½ hours of driving between them. We suggest a night in Monemvasia to enjoy the old town in the evening.
Can we drive into Monemvasia?
No. Cars stay outside the walls of the lower town and you walk in through the gate; your driver drops you as close as possible.
Tell us your dates and how many you are, and we will reply within 24 hours with your plan and private transfers. Ask for your trip