Known for ancient settlement, beach, coastal town, hiking pass, island, medieval old town, viewpoint, orthodox church
Monemvasia, founded in the sixth century, is a one of the oldest continually-inhabited fortified towns in Europe, located on a small island connected to the mainland by a 400-meter-long pass. This unique geographical feature, surrounded by the Myrtoan Sea, makes Monemvasia a fascinating destination. Monemvasia offers an immersive experience that combines historical exploration, cultural enrichment, and natural beauty.
You understand, it is impossible to see Greece just in a couple of days. Come with us to explore Greece in a 1-2 week road trip. We will pass Monemvasia, along with other Greece' attractions, to discover the soul of the country, its way of life, culture and traditions, food and drinks. Browse our tours passing Monemvasia, or contact us directly for a custom tour in Greece. By the way, we charge nothing for a custom itinerary. Contact us directly, let's plan all the details of your trip and get it done!
Monemvasia, Greece Monterrasol small group car tours to
Monemvasia, Greece Monterrasol small group car tours to
Monemvasia, Greece Monterrasol small group car tours to
Monemvasia, Greece Monterrasol small group car tours to
Monemvasia, Greece Monterrasol small group car tours to
Monemvasia, Greece Monterrasol small group car tours to
Monemvasia, Greece Monterrasol small group car tours to
Monemvasia, Greece Monterrasol small group car tours to
Monemvasia, Greece Monterrasol small group car tours to
Monemvasia, Greece Monterrasol small group car tours to
Argos - Known for ancient settlement, ancient theatre, archaeological site, castle, orthodox cathedral; archaeological site is a UNESCO Tentative List Site
Arta - Known for bridge, byzantine empire, castle, museum, orthodox cathedral
Athens - Known for archaeological site, museum; historical center is a UNESCO World Heritage Site
Bassae - Known for archaeological site, viewpoint; archaeological site is a UNESCO World Heritage Site
Chalkida - Known for beach, castle, coastal town, marina, museum, viewpoint
Corfu - Known for archaeological site, beach, fortress, historical center, island, marina, medieval old town, museum, promenade, scenic road, sightseeing, viewpoint
Corinth - Known for ancient theatre, archaeological site, beach, bridge, coastal town, fortress, landmark, viewpoint
Larissa - Known for ancient theatre, archaeological site; ancient theatre is a UNESCO Tentative List Site
Livadeia - Known for castle, medieval old town, river, waterfall
Messene - Known for ancient settlement, ancient theatre, archaeological site, landmark, museum, viewpoint; archaeological site is a UNESCO Tentative List Site
Mesolongi (Messolonghi) - Known for beach, coastal town, lake, landmark, promenade, wildlife
Meteora - Known for landmark, nature, viewpoint, orthodox monastery; monastery is a UNESCO World Heritage Site
Methoni - Known for beach, castle, coastal town, viewpoint; castle is a UNESCO Tentative List Site
Metsovo - Known for architecture, mountain town, museum, viewpoint, winery
Monodendri - Known for hiking pass, mountain town, museum, scenic road, sightseeing, viewpoint, Zagori cultural landscape, orthodox church, orthodox monastery; Zagori cultural landscape is a UNESCO World Heritage Site
Mycenae - Known for ancient settlement, archaeological site, viewpoint; archaeological site is a UNESCO World Heritage Site
Mystras - Known for ancient settlement, archaeological site, viewpoint, orthodox monastery; archaeological site is a UNESCO World Heritage Site
Nafpaktos - Known for beach, castle, coastal town, marina, monument, museum, promenade, viewpoint
Nafplio - Known for castle, coastal town, fortified town, fortress, historical center, marina, monument, museum, promenade, viewpoint; fortress is a UNESCO Tentative List Site; castle is a UNESCO Tentative List Site; fortified town is a UNESCO Tentative List Site
Oiniadai (Oeniadae) - Known for ancient settlement, ancient theatre, archaeological site, walls; archaeological site is a UNESCO Tentative List Site
Olympia - Known for archaeological site, museum; archaeological site is a UNESCO World Heritage Site
Palace of Nestor - Known for archaeological site, architecture, landmark
Parga - Known for beach, castle, coastal town, promenade
Patras - Known for archaeological site, castle, coastal town, museum, promenade, seaport, viewpoint, winery, orthodox cathedral
Porto Kagio - Known for beach, coastal town, marina, viewpoint
Preveza - Known for castle, coastal town, marina, museum, seaport
Pylos - Known for beach, bridge, castle, coastal town, fortress, marina, venetian empire, wildlife
Rio - Known for beach, bridge, coastal town, fortress, seaport, viewpoint
Sparta - Known for ancient settlement, archaeological site
Volos - Known for ancient settlement, archaeological site, beach, coastal town, marina, museum, nature, seaport
Western Thrace - Known for beach, forest, lake, landmark, nature, park, river
Last reviewed: 8 December 2024
Monemvasia description
The town is situated on the east coast of the Peloponnese, offering stunning views of the sea and the surrounding landscape. Whether you are interested in medieval architecture, Byzantine churches, or simply the charm of a historic Greek town, Monemvasia is a must-visit destination in Greece.
Monemvasia area consists mostly of a large plateau some 100 m above sea level, up to 300 m wide and 1 kilometre long. The initial settlement was established by people seeking refuge from the Slavic and Avaric invasions of Greece.
The town and fortress of Monemvasia were founded in 583 AD during the reign of Byzantine Emperor Mauricius. This early history is documented in the medieval Chronicle of Monemvasia.
The town's name derives from two Greek words, moni (single) and emvasis (approach), together meaning ＂city of the single approach, or entrance＂. Its Italian form, Malvasia, gave its name to the eponymous wine. Monemvasia has been nicknamed ＂the Gibraltar of the East＂. The town is the site of a once-powerful medieval fortress, and was at one point one of the most important commercial centres in the Eastern Mediterranean.
From the 10th to the 12th centuries, Monemvasia experienced significant economic growth and developed into an important trade and maritime center. The town withstood various invasions, including those by the Arabs and Normans in the mid-12th century. This period saw the reconstruction of important monuments such as the church of Hagia Sophia in the Upper Town and the church of Elkomenos Christos.
Under Byzantine rule, particularly during the Komnenian period, Monemvasia evolved into a crucial guardian of the western entrance to the Aegean. The town was granted important privileges by the Byzantine emperors, including exemptions from inheritance tax and commerce duties. These privileges were renewed and expanded by Andronikos II Palaiologos and Andronikos III Palaiologos.
In 1249, Monemvasia was captured by William II of Villehardouin (the last Villehardouin prince of Achaea) after a three-year siege. It was later returned to the Byzantines in 1262 as part of William's ransom. The town changed hands several times, falling to the Venetians in 1463 and eventually to the Ottomans in 1715. This complex history is reflected in the town's architecture and cultural heritage.
Monemvasia is renowned for its well-preserved medieval architecture. The town is divided into the Lower Town and the Upper Town. The Lower Town features historic castle structures converted into hotels, guesthouses, shops, and restaurants, while the Upper Town, now largely deserted, was once the site of the settlement's most impressive homes and the 12th-century Agia Sofia church.
The Upper Town is accessible via a steep and slippery stone path, which rewards hikers with fascinating ruins and breathtaking views over Monemvasia and the Myrtoan Sea. The Agia Sofia church, one of Greece's oldest and most important Byzantine churches, is a highlight of this area.
The Lower Town is where most of the modern-day amenities are located, including hotels, shops, and restaurants. This area is characterized by cobblestone streets winding through medieval buildings, Byzantine churches, and Venetian architecture. Visitors can explore the narrow alleys, discover hidden courtyards, and enjoy panoramic views of the sea.
The Church of Elkomenos Christos is a historic Greek Orthodox chapel within the medieval fortress town. It is celebrated for its well-preserved frescoes and unique architecture, offering a glimpse into the rich religious and artistic heritage of the region.
Located in the central square, the Archaeological Collection of Monemvasia is a small but interesting museum. The building has served various purposes over the centuries, including as a mosque, prison, and coffee shop. It now houses a collection of artifacts found in the fortress and its surroundings, providing insights into the history of Monemvasia.
The Monemvasia Lighthouse, built in 1896, is a working lighthouse located just beyond the settlement's eastern wall. Adjacent to the lighthouse is a small museum dedicated to Greek naval lighthouses, offering photo opportunities and wonderful sea views.
Monemvasia offers several hiking trails, including the hike to the Upper Town and trails around the island. The first section of the trail leading around the island's eastern tip is particularly rocky and best suited for experienced hikers. These trails provide a chance to explore the natural beauty surrounding the town.
Monemvasia hosts various cultural events during the summer months, including performances at its stone theater. Visitors can also engage in swimming at the Portello, a secluded beach near the town, and explore the historic sites and museums within the fortress.
Monemvasia's history is marked by its resilience against various invasions and its strategic importance in the Aegean. The town was one of the last strongholds of the Byzantine Empire and later played a significant role during the Ottoman rule. This rich history makes Monemvasia a fascinating destination for history enthusiasts.
Despite its historic nature, Monemvasia is relatively accessible. The town is connected to the mainland by a tombolo, and there are modern amenities available within the Lower Town. This balance between preservation and accessibility makes it easier for tourists to enjoy the town's offerings.
Monemvasia is an attractive destination for tourists due to its unique blend of history, architecture, and natural beauty. The town's medieval charm, coupled with its stunning sea views and hiking trails, makes it an ideal place for those seeking a mix of cultural exploration and outdoor activities. The town's walls and many Byzantine churches remain as testaments to the town's history.
Monemvasia related tours
We at Monterrasol Travel welcome you to see Monemvasia during multi-day small group car tour. Contact us if you would like to customize your tour to Monemvasia.
We have developed several small group tours that visiting beautiful Monemvasia. But, if you have a special conditions or any from these tours fit you, please do not hesitate to contact us, we can organize a tour exactly as you would like. We charge nothing for develop a custom itinerary. And remember, we have no problems to take you from almost any place where you stay, hotel or private accommodation.
tour destinations: Acrocorinth, Ancient Corinth, Argos, Corinth canal, Loutraki, Messene, Monemvasia, Mycenae, Mystras, Nafplio, Olympia, Patras, Sparta, Tiryns
Welcome to the Classic Greece 9 days tour from Athens. This off-season tour belong to our category of Classic Greece tours focusing on must-see Greece locations, mostly mainland UNESCO sites and historical places.
We suggest you to take this tour if you have limited time and want to know some of must-see Greece mainland attractions.
With this tour we will visit UNESCO World Heritage Mycenae and Tiryns archaeological sites, see coastal town Nafplio with hilly fortress (UNESCO Tentative List site), visit Argos archaeological site, walks Sparta and its archaeological site and well known olive oil museum, climbs Mistras UNESCO World Heritage archaeological site and monastery, walk streets of unique coastal town Monemvasia, see Messene (UNESCO Tentative List) archaeological site, admire Olympia archaeological site (UNESCO World Heritage site) and museums, walks Patras castle and archaeological museum, see Corinth archaeological site and hilly fortress, and admire famous Corinth canal.
Greek Peloponnese round tour in 15 days. Visit all main attraction of Peloponnese peninsula and see castles, ancient places, beaches. Travel Peloponnese with Monterrasol and visit Sparta, Corinth, Mycenae, Epidaurus, Monemvasia, Methoni and other places.
This off-season 17 days tour is focused on people who would like to get to know deeply the history of Greece and walk that ancient historical places where are roots of culture of our civilization. Around the world such places are on the list of UNESCO. And many other places now expecting to be on UNESCO list; such places are prepared, available for public for fraction of cost, and are on so called UNESCO tentative list.
During this tour we going to visit most of UNESCO places and UNESCO tentative list places, located in Greece mainland. Greece is so rich with history that visit all UNESCO places in one tour will take very long time. Because of that we, Monterrasol Travel, created this tour to be able to visit the most of UNESCO places in one tour.
This off-season 19 days tour will allow you to visit not only some of Greece's eighteen UNESCO World Heritage sites but also some of the country's fourteen sites in the UNESCO tentative list, together with other top destinations across this beautiful Mediterranean land. Come and visit this stunning country in the off-peak months! You will quickly understand why Greece is much more than just a perfect summer destination. Greece is a truly year-round destination!
It boasts plenty of things to do: from fascinating museums to imposing archaeological sites, and from mouthwatering gastronomy to perfect- picture villages and towns. Greece is the ideal destination if you enjoy nature and dramatic landscapes, regardless the time of the year you plan to visit it.
We welcome you to all-seasons 3 weeks tour across Greece mainland. With this tour you going to see main attractions of Peloponnese and Central Greece. The tour will bring to to famous UNESCO places, fascinating museums and imposing archaeological sites, picturesque panoramas of see and mountains, dramatic landscapes and scenic routes.
We going to visit well known from the history of civilization towns, coastal and mountain villages, enjoy famous Greek cuisine in local tavernas, climb ancient steps of fortified towns and monasteries, walk the walls of medieval fortresses and castles. Greece is the ideal destination if you enjoy history and nature regardless the time of the year you plan to visit it.
This off-season 21 days tour is focused on people who would like to get to know deeply the history of Greece and walk that ancient historical places where are roots of culture of our civilization. Around the world such places are on the list of UNESCO. And many other places now expecting to be on UNESCO list; such places are prepared, available for public for fraction of cost, and are on so called UNESCO tentative list.
During this tour we going to visit most of UNESCO places and UNESCO tentative list places, located in Greece mainland. Greece is so rich with history that visit all UNESCO places in one tour will take very long time. Because of that we, Monterrasol Travel, created this tour to be able to visit the most of UNESCO places in one tour.
This 23 days tour is part 1 of extended touring across Greece mainland, focused on famous Peloponnese peninsula. The tour is intended for people who would like get to know deeply the history and current style of life in Greece. Do you want to walk ancient historical places where are roots of culture of our civilization? Do you want to feel the touch of Greece? Would you like to feel Greek atmosphere in towns and villages, castles and fortresses, museums and tavernas?
The main idea of this tour is visiting together with famous UNESCO attractions also off the beaten patch places of Greece, some of them are hard to reach, some of them are remote, and some are cannot be visited with large bus at all.
This tour can be extended for few days to spend a few days in Athens, to visit Athens attractions and get to know this famous city and places around. Ask us for that!
This off-season 23 days tour is focused on people who would like to get to know deeply the history of Greece and walk that ancient historical places where are roots of culture of our civilization. Around the world such places are on the list of UNESCO. And many other places now expecting to be on UNESCO list; such places are prepared, available for public for fraction of cost, and are on so called UNESCO tentative list.
During this tour we going to visit most of UNESCO places and UNESCO tentative list places, located in Greece mainland. Greece is so rich with history that visit all UNESCO places in one tour will take very long time. Because of that we, Monterrasol Travel, created this tour to be able to visit the most of UNESCO places in one tour.
This off-season tour is focused on people who would like to get to know deeply the history of Greece and walk that ancient historical places where are roots of culture of our civilization. Around the world such places are on the list of UNESCO. And many other places now expecting to be on UNESCO list; such places are prepared, available for public for fraction of cost, and are on so called UNESCO tentative list.
During this tour we going to visit most of UNESCO places and UNESCO tentative list places, located in Greece mainland. Greece is so rich with history that visit all UNESCO places in one tour will take very long time. Because of that we, Monterrasol Travel, created this tour to be able to visit the most of UNESCO places in one tour.
We welcome you to explore non-touristic sites of Greece with our extended off-season discovery 26-day tour from Igoumenitsa. We will explore several famous mainland regions of Greece: Central Greece, Peloponnese, Epirus, and even Zagori, recently nominated as UNESCO World Heritage site for cultural landscape.
Few of visited sites are on the list of UNESCO World Heritage sites, and few are UNESCO Tentative List sites. We will visit castles and fortresses, coastal and mountain towns, ancient monasteries and cathedrals, archaeological sites and ancient bridges, off the beaten track attractions and beautiful taverns.
We will start the tour with visiting town Parga famous fort castle and beaches. Next attraction where we will walk is ancient city Nicopolis (UNESCO Tentative List site), and come to explore and sleep in coastal town Preveza. Through the only under sea tunnel in Greece we will come to coastal town Nafpaktos, and on the way will visit archaeological site Oeniadae (UNESCO Tentative List site) with shipyard and small ancient theater.
In Nafpaktos we need to see a fortress; in historical center we need to say Hello to Miguel de Cervantes which statue is located in old port. Next day, after exploring two fortresses, Antirrio and Rio, take images of beautiful bridge from ferry, we will come to Patras, to see famous castle, cathedral, and few attractions from Roman time.
Starting from Patras, we are already in the Peloponnese region, where located the most attractions of this our tour. We will come to famous Olympia, explore archaeological site and 3 museums. Next our locations are fortresses Pylos and Methoni, and we will stay in lively town Kalamata with long beautiful coastal line and beach. From here we also will visit archaeological site Messene (UNESCO Tentative List site).
From Kalamata, with short walk in medieval part of town Kardamyli, we will come to explore Mani peninsula famous for specific tower houses and people who claim be descent from the ancient Spartans. We will see the heart of Mani, the historical capital of the Mani Peninsula town Areopoli, its historical center, charming stone tower houses and cobblestone alleyway.
After Mani, we will pass coastal town Gytheio and will come to see amazing medieval fortified town Monemvasia, and will explore both lower and upper towns there.
Next important places we will explore are famous town Sparta and archaeological site Mystras (UNESCO World Heritage site) with still active monastery. From Sparta, passing by mountain road cute mountain town Kosmas and cliff monastery Elonas, we will come to Nafplio, where around are located several important attractions like Argos, Tiryns (UNESCO World Heritage site), Midea, Asini, Tolo.
On the way to Ancient Corinth we will walk over stones of ancient civilization in Mycenae (UNESCO World Heritage site). Around Corinth we will wonder on Corinth canal and explore ancient fortress Acrocorinth.
Next important attraction to visit is Hosios Loukas monastery (UNESCO World Heritage site). We will have overnight in mountain town Arachova, and from there will come to see famous complex of monasteries in Meteora (UNESCO World Heritage site).
From Kalampaka, the town of Meteora monasteries, we will come to Ioannina to see its castle and nice Silversmith museum. The rest of tour we will spend in Zagori (the whole region is UNESCO World Heritage site), learn the stories of this not usual region, see several ancient bridges and mountain towns.
This off-season tour is focused on people who would like to get to know deeply the history of Greece and walk that ancient historical places where are roots of culture of our civilization. Around the world such places are on the list of UNESCO. And many other places now expecting to be on UNESCO list; such places are prepared, available for public for fraction of cost, and are on so called UNESCO tentative list.
During this tour we going to visit most of UNESCO places and UNESCO tentative list places, located in Greece mainland. Greece is so rich with history that visit all UNESCO places in one tour will take very long time. Because of that we, Monterrasol Travel, created this tour to be able to visit the most of UNESCO places in one tour.
This off-season tour is focused on people who would like to get to know deeply the history of Greece and walk that ancient historical places where are roots of culture of our civilization. Around the world such places are on the list of UNESCO. And many other places now expecting to be on UNESCO list; such places are prepared, available for public for fraction of cost, and are on so called UNESCO tentative list.
During this tour we going to visit most of UNESCO places and UNESCO tentative list places, located in Greece mainland. Greece is so rich with history that visit all UNESCO places in one tour will take very long time. Because of that we, Monterrasol Travel, created this tour to be able to visit the most of UNESCO places in one tour.
Come with us to 31 days all seasons tour over Southern Balkans, to explore 3 countries: Montenegro, Albania, Greece.
In Montenegro, we will visit town Kotor (UNESCO World Heritage Site) is surrounded by fortifications built during the Venetian period. In coastal town Budva we will walk its narrow streets of historical center and surrounding walls. We also will visit Old Bar, the settlement known from Byzantine Empire ages. On the way to Albania we will visit cave monastery Dajbabe with unique frescoes.
In Albania, we need to see historical center of town Krije and its museum, admire ancient theater in Durres, wonder on beautiful sea on Divjaka beach, and come to sleep in town Berat (UNESCO World Heritage Site), called as town of thousand windows. After Berat, we will visit archaeological site Apollonia (UNESCO Tentative List site), and come to see historical center of town Gjirokaster (UNESCO World Heritage Site). Here in Gjirokaster we will walk in Ottoman fortress and see local museum.
In Greece, we will stay within mainland. The very first Greek place is Ioannina, where we will see historical center, fortress, and Silversmithing museum. We will admire huge amphitheater at Dodoni archaeological site (UNESCO Tentative List site), and cute small coastal town Parga with a fortress and gorgeous beach. Next day we will visit Nekromanteio Acheron, a Greek temple of necromancy, walk over famous bridge in Arta and see local museum.
Bext, we will visit archaeological site Oeniadae (UNESCO Tentative List site) with amphitheater and old shipyard, see Messolonghi lagoon, and come to coastal town Nafpaktos with beautiful long sandy beach. Here in Nafpaktos we will need to see a fortress and walk historical center. In next town, Patras we need to see local fortress, rich museum (second after Athens museum), huge cathedral, and will spend evening in local winery.
Next important location is large archaeological site Olympia (UNESCO World Heritage Site), with several museums on site. Next day, we will come to the most Southern part of this are of Greece, to see fortress Methoni (UNESCO Tentative List site). After we cross a whole peninsula, we will see another fortress, Koroni (UNESCO Tentative List site). Next day, we will walk in archaeological site Messene (UNESCO Tentative List site), and move to coastal town Kalamata, to visit its cathedral and historical center. After Kalamata we will move the middle leg of Peloponnese, the area called Mani, to see this area with very specific architecture.
Next important place to visit is Monemvasia, former island, now connected with by road with mainland. Here, we need to see historical center, and climb on top to visit a local dominant, a church. After, we will move to Sparta, to see archaeological site, king Leonidas monument, and visit local Olive oil museum. Close to Sparta we will visit another quite unique site, Mystras (UNESCO World Heritage Site).
Our way to Nafplio will be by mountain roads, we will see mountain town Kosmas and visit hidden in mountains Elonis monastery. We will take a lunch in coastal town Plaka, before arrival to Nafplio. In Nafplio (UNESCO Tentative List site), we will see historical center, fortress, and small sea fortress. In the area of Nafplio, we need to see archaeological site Argos, archaeological site Tiryns (UNESCO World Heritage Site), and huge archaeological site Mycenae (UNESCO World Heritage Site) with its museum.
After Nafplio we need to see archaeological site Epidaurus (UNESCO World Heritage Site) and its museum, and take a rest in coastal town Loutraki. On the way to Athens we will walk in Ancient Corinth archaeological site, admire famous Corinth Canal, and finally arrive to Athens.
June 13, 2025 Klis, Croatia. Klis Fortress, known well in Roman time, played a crucial role during the Ottoman wars in Europe. Fortress rises dramatically above the village of Klis, just 13 kilometers from the city Split, Croatia. Its strategic hilltop location, sandwiched between the Kozjak and Mosor mountains, offers sweeping views of Split, the Adriatic Sea, and the rural hinterland.
June 2, 2025 Korçë (Korce), Albania. Korce (Korçë): Albania's vultural crossroads. Nestled in southeastern Albania near the Greek and North Macedonian borders, Korce is a high-altitude town surrounded by the Morava Mountains. Its crisp climate, cobblestone streets, and mix of Ottoman and European architecture make it a refreshing escape. Known as the ＂City of Serenades＂, it blends tradition with vibrant urban energy.
May 21, 2025 Vir, Croatia. Vir peninsula, linked to Croatia's mainland by a bridge, is a North Dalmatian coastal gem blending modern comforts with rustic charm. Once a quiet fishing area, it's now a family-friendly destination famed for sandy beaches, clear waters, and vibrant summer energy. Its accessibility and mix of relaxation and activities make it a hit with both locals and international visitors.
May 9, 2025 Filosofou, Greece. The Filosofou Monasteries, located near the town of Dimitsana in the Peloponnese region of Greece, is a significant historical and cultural site that attracts tourists for its unique blend of natural beauty, architectural heritage, and spiritual significance. The monasteries are nestled within the stunning Lousios Gorge, providing a picturesque backdrop of natural beauty.
April 30, 2025 Grgeteg, Serbia. The Grgeteg Monastery, one of several monasteries on the Fruska Gora mountain in northern Serbia, founded in 1471, is famous for its baroque church with intricate iconostasis.
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