The Peloponnese peninsula is Greece at its most epic! It’s a place where myths come alive, fortresses cling to seaside cliffs and winding mountain roads lead you from olive groves to hidden coves.  

In a week there, you can see the highlights without rushing, blending history, landscapes and the relaxed pace of Greek life. Simply hop in a hire car and get ready to explore! 

Here’s a seven-day Peloponnese itinerary that captures the essence of this legendary region... 

DAY ONE 

Day-trip to Voidokilia Beach 

Ease yourself into your holiday with a relaxing day at Voidokilia Beach. And as far as beaches go, this one’s pretty special. It’s often hailed as one of the best in the country! As if lifted from the Caribbean, this sandy stretch wraps around a golden, horseshoe-shaped bay, with aquamarine waters on one side and a lagoon on the other.  

Start with a refreshing swim, where the sea is so shallow and gentle that it feels like a natural pool. Afterwards, why not take a short hike up the dunes where you’ll be treated to breathtaking views of the Gialova Lagoon and Ionian Sea? Bring a picnic to enjoy under the sun, while the waves lap softly on the shore. By sunset, the beach glows with warm light, leaving you with unforgettable memories of a beautiful beach day. 

DAY TWO 

Visit Methoni  

On your second day, travel down to Methoni, on the south-west coast of the Peloponnese. It’s a real hidden gem that blends history with seaside charm. The Venetian Castle of Methoni is one of its main draws, and one of Greece’s most impressive fortifications, complete with battlements, a stone bridge and the iconic Bourtzi Fortress rising from the sea! Within its vast walls, you’ll find ruins, chapels and sweeping views of the Ionian Sea.  

When you’ve got your history fix, head to the sandy beach for a spot of sunbathing, before hitting up a quiet taverna for a relaxed dinner and glass of wine.  

DAY THREE 

Explore stunning Stoupa 

Travel to one of the most popular resorts in the Peloponnese for a fun-packed beach day and fab food! Along the Mani peninsula, you’ll find this buzzy spot, where golden sandy beaches like Kalogria meet charming streets lined with welcoming tavernas.  

Begin your day with a swim in the crystal waters or bring a snorkel and see what colourful marine life you can spot beneath the water. Take a leisurely stroll along the seafront then grab a tasty Greek feast for lunch. In the afternoon, immerse yourself into authentic Mani life as you drive through stone-built villages and olive groves. If you’re feeling adventurous, why not follow the hiking trails towards the dramatic Taygetos Mountains?  

DAY FOUR 

Visit Ancient Messene  

If you’re looking to uncover more of Greece’s fascinating ancient history, then a trip to Ancient Messene is a must. It’s nestled in a lush valley, and you can step back in time at this vast archaeological site which houses remarkably preserved ruins, including imposing city walls and gates to a grand stadium and theatre. 

As you wander around, you get a sense of scale of this once-thriving city, founded in 4 BC. Some of the highlights include the sanctuary of Asclepius, intricate mosaics and the impressive agora. The whole site is surrounded by olive grounds and majestic mountains, so the setting and stretching views are just as breathtaking as the history! It’s an ideal stop-off to immerse yourself in mythology, archaeology and natural beauty.  

DAY FIVE 

Add a touch of luxury in Costa Navarino  

This upmarket gem in Messinia is all about luxurious living and unspoilt landscapes. It’s home to golf and beautiful beaches which you can sprawl out on and sunbathe as well as fine-dining venues and world-class golf courses. 

Surrounded by olive groves, the area itself is breathtaking, but to really make the most of it, why not try out a wellness retreat for the day or sample some of the eco-friendly hospitality? Outdoor adventures are also on the cards, then it’s all about five-star finery at dinner time. 

DAY SIX 

Spend the day at the Caves of Diros 

Around an hour’s drive from Stoupa, on the Mani Peninsula, you’ll find the Caves of Diros – one of the country’s most spectacular natural wonders. These underground caverns stretch for kilometres, filled with stunning stalactites and stalagmites formed over thousands of years.  

The highlight is the boat tour along the subterranean river, where shimmering rock formations reflect in the crystal-clear waters, creating an almost magical atmosphere.  

Guided walkways allow you to wander deeper into the lit-up chambers, revealing unique rock formations at every turn. Beyond its beauty, the caves hold archaeological significance, with discoveries suggesting humans lived here in prehistoric times! 

DAY SEVEN 

Explore Ancient Olympia 

The UNESCO-accredited site of Ancient Olympia is set in a fertile valley, in the north of the region. If you’re into history (and sport!), it’s a real must-see as it’s one of the most important archaeological sites across the whole of Greece! It’s also known as the birthplace of the Olympic Games in 776 BC, and was a sacred sanctuary dedicated to Zeus.  

Walking among the ruins, you’ll see the Temple of Zeus, once home to the colossal statue by Phidias, and the Temple of Hera, where the Olympic flame is still lit today! The ancient stadium, with its original stone starting blocks, is the perfect place to walk (or run!) in the footsteps of ancient athletes that once competed here. 

Afterwards, be sure to visit Olympia’s Museum to see remarkable artefacts, offering deeper insight into ancient Greek art, religion, and sporting traditions. 

In just one week, this itinerary weaves together ancient ruins, medieval fortresses, mountain villages and pristine coastlines – showcasing the best that this Greek region has to offer!  

Seven days here will leave you feeling relaxed and inspired, and likely planning your return trip...