We are taking a cruise in Octover and will be hitting Monemavsia for one day. In by 8, out by 5. I have been reading some of the posts about his place an it sounds lovely. Looking for input on things to see, where to go, and all the usual. Older couple in our 70's but in decent shape, if that is part of the answer. Looks like there will be some uphill hiking to see things. What else?
Posted by
France Southwest
3153 posts
Aside from strolling the alleys of the lower town of Monemvasia on the peninsula and climbing to the top of the "Kastro" to the church of Hagia Sophia (about a 30-minute walk), you won't have much else to do on your own.
There is only one "shopping street" for the first 100 meters after the main gate, with tourist shops and a few bars/restaurants.
Monemvasia is no longer inhabited except by staff working in the tourism industry and by the tourists themselves who stay in traditional houses converted into small hotels or Airbnbs. It's like a large open-air museum.
The small town of Gefira, on the mainland side at the start of the peninsula has some restaurants, bars, shops, but is of no particular interest. The small nearby beaches are not very clean, and are even polluted.
You could hire a guide if you are interested in the 1500 years of history of Monemvasia.
Posted by
Nanaimo, BC, Canada
1603 posts
It has been a while since we were at Monemavsia but I do recall it being a bit stressful walking up to the main gate. I think it might be a good idea to see if there is a shuttle service or a taxi to take you up to the gate. We really enjoyed the village it was easy to think you stepped back in time the moment you pass through the walls into the village.
The first 53 images in this album are our last visit to Monemvasia.
https://www.flickr.com/photos/stanbr54/albums/72157711323535897/