Constantly evolving with a dynamic, outward-looking profile, Kalamata is crowned by imposing Mount Taygetos and embraced by the beautiful Messinian Gulf. It’s one of those rare destinations equally suited for energetic city breaks and relaxed summer getaways.
Divide your vacation time between the wonderful beach, strolling the historic town’s neighborhoods, biking along the coast, and taking in panoramic views from the castle. Sample traditional flavors and local specialties, explore idyllic nearby villages and archaeological sites, and dive into the crystal-clear waters of beaches surrounding the Messinian capital.
With air connections, the advantage of being a short drive from Athens, and a growing reputation on the Mediterranean tourist map, Kalamata – this unique blend of sea, mountains, history and artistic events – has all the makings of your new favorite destination.
Why Go in July
The internationally renowned Kalamata International Dance Festival celebrates its 30th anniversary this year, welcoming top Greek and foreign artists from July 12-21. The atmosphere during this dance celebration is unique, with impressive performers and creators staging shows at the Dance Hall and the city’s main square.
Equally interesting are the educational workshops for all ages that will add a touch of inspiration and creativity to your vacation. Meanwhile, as the beaches of Messinia are usually formed by small bays, you can still enjoy them in relative comfort before the August holidaymakers arrive.
What to Do
Start at the medieval castle, the 13th-century Frankish fortress known as ‘Isabeau’s Castle‘ from Angelo Terzakis’ famous novel. Built on the site of the acropolis of the Homeric city of Pharae, it offers a full view of the city and Messinian Gulf below. Kalamata’s important Byzantine churches are also worth seeing – your first stop could be the semi-cave church of Agios Ioannis at the foot of the castle.
A stroll through the bustling Old Town is a must. As night falls, it comes alive with young crowds. The Byzantine church of Agios Apostoloi, built in 1317, is the symbol of the historic center and all of Kalamata. It has significant historical symbolism, as the first thanksgiving service of liberated Kalamata was held here on March 23, 1821.
Another important sight is the famous Kalogreon Monastery, an 18th-century nunnery that became famous for the silk fabrics the nuns produced by raising silkworms. Even today, you can buy the famous “Kalamata handkerchief” of the well-known folk song here.
Closely tied to folk tradition is the Victoria G. Karelia Collection of Greek Costumes, with about 100 traditional costumes – real works of art presented masterfully. Various events are held in its courtyard in summer. In a similar vein, the Historical and Folklore Museum recreates a traditional house and a café that transport us to the daily life and way of life of earlier times, while the findings of the renovated Archaeological Museum cover the period from prehistory to modern times.
Children will appreciate a visit to the Railway Park, a unique open-air museum that combines the story of Greek railways with a walk through the verdant surrounding area dotted with ponds, a favorite spot for locals to stroll.
On the other hand, if your trip is about relaxing in the sun and swimming, the morphology and level of organization of the beaches around Kalamata cater to every taste. Even if you don’t venture far from the city, swimming at the 4 km Blue Flag beach under the watchful eye of Taygetos is a unique experience. You’ll find fewer crowds in Kitries Bay, where you can recharge after swimming at the two small tavernas.
In a completely different style, Santova, 12 km outside the city, attracts younger crowds who appreciate the loud beats of beach bars and party atmosphere. Mantineia and Almyros are also popular and close to Kalamata, while Stoupa with its golden sand, the neighboring sandy Kalogria with its exotic water hues and fame linked to Nikos Kazantzakis who lived here, and Foneas with its pebble coastline and spectacular rock dividing it in two hold the popularity crown.
Day trips to nearby settlements will offer truly enchanting sights. The twilight hour makes the fairytale setting of Methoni even more idyllic, with its Venetian castle – one of the largest in the Mediterranean – the stone bridge with 14 arches, the fortified islet of Bourtzi, and the picturesque mansions.
In a similar vein, Koroni has its own Venetian castle, spectacularly clinging to the rock of Cape Akritas, as well as a wonderful island aura that spreads from its picturesque little harbor to the whitewashed alleys. And Kardamyli with its imposing stone houses, flower-filled cobblestone streets, the Maniot towers of the old settlement and the pebble coastline, will be unforgettable.
It’s also worth traveling the 30 km northwest of Kalamata to the well-preserved archaeological site of Ancient Messene, the city built in the 4th century BC, named after the mythical Messene, daughter of the Argive king Triopas, and whose public places of worship, fortifications, several houses and funerary monuments are preserved in very good condition.
The rich mix of experiences wouldn’t be complete without gastronomic ones, with the fertile Messinian land generously offering its fruits and local tradition using them in exquisite flavors: olive oil and Kalamata olives, figs, artichokes from the foothills of Taygetos, honey, watermelon spoon sweet, liqueur from roses or orange blossoms, homemade cold cuts like the traditional pasto, and of course, honey pasteli, are some of the products you’ll seek in Kalamata’s central market and traditional shops.
Must-stops include the Androvitsanea bakery for delicious Maniot lalanggia, Lambou pasteli shops for the healthiest snacks, and pastry shops with tempting stacks of handmade traditional diples, with eggs, honey, olive oil and walnuts. The most characteristic dish and local favorite, roast suckling pig is an integral part of local gastronomy that you’ll taste in its authentic form – always with skin – roasted in special ovens, as well as in advanced versions in creative burgers.
Where to Stay
With its green expanse and elegant, well-maintained facilities stretching between the sturdy mass of the highest mountain in the Peloponnese and the serene coastline – like Kalamata itself – hospitable as its name suggests, the Filoxenia Kalamata of Grecotel has become a timeless value in the tourist profile of the Messinian capital. An ideal starting point for leisurely walks to the city, at the edge of which it is located, and a springboard for exploring the fascinating landscape that surrounds it, the 4-star resort is hidden in lush gardens, with impressive palm trees as the main feature, a network of paths connecting the neoclassical-style main building with the 188 spacious, luxurious, naturally-toned rooms – capable of accommodating 3 to 6 people – and the large outdoor pool with integrated circular whirlpool.
A few steps away, the well-organized 300-meter beach with fine pebbles is perfect for relaxation, playing at the water’s edge and swimming in crystal-clear waters, while the Ipanema Beach Bar with its shady veranda – like the Kalamata Filoxenia’s Pool Bar – will supply you with refreshing drinks and snacks right next to the sea. More options for dining by the pool, enjoying Mediterranean or purely Greek flavors, are offered at the Olive restaurant.
The aromas of grilled meats, fresh seafood and traditional dishes attract us to its hospitable veranda at lunchtime, in the same spot where the day begins with a rich American breakfast buffet, full of healthy choices that provide energy and delicious treats. And while children aged 3-12 eat for free at Tasty Corner, at the magical hour when the sun sets behind Taygetos, the tables welcome excellent à la carte choices – by reservation – while Sundays are dedicated to traditional flavors.
While children are creatively occupied and having fun in the children’s pool or ZooZoo Playroom, adults enjoy their own oasis of relaxation and wellness at the Elixir Olive Spa, where body and mind are rejuvenated in an environment of absolute tranquility. The sounds of water, soft music, fragrances of fresh flowers and scented candles soothe the senses, even more so the indoor pool with its own whirlpool, sauna, relaxing massages with essential oils and aromatherapies provided by specialized therapists.
Read more:
Kalamata Beyond Olives: Festivals, Sports, Museums & Best Things to Do.
