Family holidays in Monemvasia

Sponsored by Municipality of Monemvasia

If you are looking for a destination that combines the historical splendor with calm comfort, where children can wander safely and you can relax with the view of the eternal stones that embrace the Aegean Sea, then Monemvasia is waiting for you.

In this place that seems to have slipped from the pages of an old Byzantine novel, every family moment finds meaning in the beauty of the landscape.

1Shady arches, cobbled alleys, romantic sunsets and clean welcoming beaches create the ideal setting for a holiday you won't forget. Come to walk its walls together, talk about tastes, games and memories.

No, it's not just for lovers. Although, when you see the rock emerging through the Myrtoo Sea with that otherworldly, almost supernatural majesty you feel your heart skipping a beat. But Monemvasia has that rare quality of adapting to the needs of its visitors - like a lady who sees you enter her space and offers you exactly what you need, without having to ask.

The Old Town: Live the fairy tale – as a family

Start with the Old Town. Perhaps it is the most beautiful castle in Greece, judging by the atmosphere, the architecture and the complete absence of wheeled vehicles (even bicycles are forbidden). A maze of cobbled streets, arches, stone mansions and small, well hidden courtyards full of jasmine trees, it makes the little ones feel like explorers and the grown-ups forget what time it is.

Don't try to follow a map - be lost. Accidentally discover the magical square with the Church of Elkomenos Christos and the breathtaking view.

Climb up to the upper castle - beware, the climb is demanding for little feet, but the views and the feeling of walking on top of the world are worth every step. Plus, up there you might even encounter a peacock. Or meet a cat with “I'm the king here” attitude on its face.

Beaches for family dives

The beaches around Monemvasia are a small treasure. Vlychada beach (located in Rychia Laconia) and slowly unfolds before you, wide and all-white, embraced by green slopes, like an impressionist painting that could have been painted by Monet, if instead of France he had been born in the Laconian landscapes of Myrtoo.

And then there is Balogheri beach. A word-of-mouth secret for those who know. It’s a small, chiseled cove, hermetically sealed by rocks and silence, with waters in shades of green that tease you to dive despite  the cold water. Here there is nothing to interrupt you; no signal, no sounds, no people.

A little further out, Abelakia beach ( Ksifia area) combines plenty of space to play in the sand and crystal clear waters. If your schedule allows it, go to Kastraki (Agios Ioannis Monemvasia Beach) - you can reach it by car, it has pebbles and deepens quickly, but its quietness is almost metaphysical.

Oh, and don't forget: a proper beach swim for parents is completed with a frozen freddo coffee and your gaze fixed on the sea, while the kids build the fifth sandcastle of the day. You can just pretend to look after them - it's okay, it's Easter/summer/holiday.

A bright summer at the beaches of Monemvasia

Trails and adventures

If the family loves hiking then you should know that the surrounding area has trails. Not necessarily with a distinct altitude difference (we have kids with us, as we said), but certainly with great views.

From the lower town to the upper, from Agia Sophia to the terraces overlooking the infinity of Myrtoo Sea, and of course to the stone bridge that connects the Old and New Town - a route you can take even with a stroller.

Also for a more adventurous experience there is the path around the castle that starts from the foot of the cliff.

A good idea is to bring along an “observation safari” - make a short list of things that children can spot: a blue window shutter, a cat with different eyes, or a hawk on the rock.

It can become a game, and at the same time, they will begin to notice the environment around them more acutely.

Taverns and delicacies

Food is always important on family holidays. Monemvasia, fortunately, has plenty of delicious experiences to satisfy all members of the family.

At Monemvasia, food is not just a necessity - it's a ritual. Sit on a cobbled balcony overlooking the endless blue and let the flavors speak volumes about the place.

You'll taste stews that smell of summer and will remind you of your grandma, fresh fish straight from a fishing boat, golden olive oil and wine from local vineyards that will leave you with an aftertaste of sunshine.

In taverns with tiles and vines, or in more refined restaurants with fusion experimentation, Monemvasia invites you to taste its tradition - not as tourists, but as guests at the table of old friends. Indulge in its gastronomic embrace; it is authentic, generous and unforgettable.

Where to Stay

Monemvasia offers an exceptionally thorough choice of accommodation, with guesthouses and boutique hotels that balance between the nobility of medieval stone and the warmth of a handmade doll's house.

For families, opt for accommodation located just outside the Old Town - easier access by car, more space, and often better prices. These accommodations offer excellent value for money, without sacrificing any of the charm of the place.

Ultimately, why go?

Monemvasia is one of those places that speak to every age in its own unpretentious way. It's romance without cheesiness, history without museum-ness, tranquility without boredom.

It is that rare balance that makes family vacations flow simply and beautifully - no yelling, no "I’m bored", no "when are we leaving".

And when you return, you'll find there's a small, shared smile in everyone's eyes. As if something has fallen in the right place. Like something happened just the way it was supposed to.