The Peloponnese region recently released a promotional video highlighting the beauty and tourism offerings of the area, titled: “Peloponnese: Greece Beyond the Obvious”. The video is part of the region’s tourism campaign aimed at establishing the Peloponnese as a destination to experience genuine Greece and traditional Greek hospitality. The video will motivate last-minute visitors and highlights the easy access to the Peloponnese. Have a look at the video and read on to find our favorite things to do in the Peloponnese for families.
The Peloponnese for families
Over the years, we have been visiting and reviewing many destinations and hotels in the Peloponnese. Due to its easy access by road (no boat or plane needed), it has been on our travel list since the kids were born.
The Peloponnese region is often overlooked by first-time visitors to Greece, but a wealth of things to see and do await families who travel there. From beautiful beaches, excellent family-friendly resorts, Venetian castles, and incredible UNESCO World Heritage sites.
Where is the Peloponnese?
The Peloponnese region of Greece is sometimes mistaken for an island, due to the fact that the Corinth canal separates it from the mainland. It is actually part of the mainland, though, and could arguably be said to have been the center of the ancient Greek world. The Peloponnese is the southernmost part of the mainland of Greece, connected to Attica at the Isthmus of Corinth. Here the famous Corinth Canal has been constructed. The peninsula has been inhabited since prehistoric times.
The Island of Pelops
By the way, the current modern name ‘Peloponnese’ has an interesting background. It derives from the Greek Pelop and Nisos, meaning Islands of Pelop. In Greek Mythology, this part of Greece belonged to the hero Pelops, who was said to have conquered the entire region.
Things to see and do in the Peloponnese
Here, you will find some of the major archaeological sites such as Mycenae, Epidaurus, and Ancient Olympia. It’s a place of myth and legend – where Hercules performed 6 of his 12 Labours, where King Agamemnon ruled, and where the first Olympics were held. There is also a rich Venetian heritage, with numerous Venetian castles dotted up and down the coastline. Add on to this warm weather, perfect beaches, and great food, and you can soon see why the Peloponnese deserves consideration for families planning a vacation in Greece!
What to do in the Peloponnese, Greece for families
In terms of tourism, the Peloponnese is the most popular part of mainland Greece. There is so much to see and do in the Peloponnese, we will list just the most famous in this article. Many of these places can be visited by staying at the two key towns of Nafplio and Kalamata (Costa Navarino). All of these sites can be visited independently, which is great for families planning a road trip around Greece.
Best things to do in the Peloponnese:
- Corinth (Ancient Coritnh and the Corinth Canal
- Nemea
- Ancient Epidaurus (including a summer performance at the Ancient Theatre)
- Mycenae
- The city of Nafplio
- Kalamata
- The Mani
- Ancient Olympia
- The Archaeological site of Mystras, the late-Byzantine city and Ancient Sparta
- The castle town of Monemvasia
- The castles of Methoni and Koroni
- Ancient Messene Listed by UNESCO as a tentative World Heritage Monument,
- The Menalon Trail
- Nemea (Ancient Nemea and Wine Region)
- Amazing beaches such as Voidokilia and Elafonissos
- Five-star golf courses at family resorts such as Costa Navarino
- Mountain climbing in Leonidio (Arkadia)
Where to stay in the Peloponnese?
The Peloponnese is a large region with endless choices in boutique hotels, luxury family resorts, agro-tourism accommodations, and family hotels. Due to its convenient location near Athens, there are also many spa resorts and private villas for lazy weekends away. Here below, we have listed some of our favorite hotels near important attractions and sites of the Peloponnese. We have personally visited these hotels with our kids, or they were recommended to us by other parents. The list is just the beginning, and we will constantly be adding new places, so stay tuned!
Monemvasia: Kinsterna Hotel
Families will love the private villas with pool and bbq area. Parents will love staying in a historic room and the views over the sea. For more family hotels in Monemvasia, please check Monemvasia in Greece with Kids.
Mystra: Kyniska Palace Conference & Spa
This five-star mega-resort is excellent for families because of its many pools, large choice in family accommodation, and natural surroundings. It is a magnificent base to explore the Peloponnese.
The Mani: Petra & Fos
With splendid views from the pool, beautiful luxury accommodation, and delicious local Greek breakfast options, Petra & Fos is a cozy boutique hotel for small families.
Vodokilia: The Westin Resort Costa Navarino
The Westin Resort Costa Navarino is one of the best resorts in Greece and a must-visit for families who love to combine family facilities with world-class luxury with a laid-back twist.
Nafplio: 999 Luxury Hotel
A boutique hotel with family rooms located in a small alley of the historic center near the main square. Ideal for a time travel and exploring the city on foot. Kids will love the view of the castle. For more family hotels in Nafplion, please check Nafplio with Kids.
